International Relations of the Asia-Pacific

What makes the Asia-Pacific region ‘tick’? The Asia-Pacific is increasingly a region of pivotal importance, if not preeminent importance, in global politics and international relations. It is beset with big questions the answers to which have important implications both within and beyond the region.

Does East Asia face greater challenges from ‘traditional’ or ‘new’ security and economic issues? Can American hegemony in the Asia-Pacific be maintained? Can China rise peacefully? What are the roles of Japan and ASEAN in facilitating regional cooperation? How is the region attempting to manage issues such as a Taiwan contingency and North Korea's nuclear weapons? Is the region heading towards a US-China clash or new Cold War? Moreover, these questions often present seemingly paradoxical challenges to mainstream interpretations of international politics, the answering of which helps us better understand the study of international politics itself

This module aims to elucidate how the international relations of Asia-Pacific and the growth of regionalism and regional cooperation, are being shaped. In pursuing this goal, the module engages a range of issues including security, development, financial crises, institutions, the roles of great powers, as well as the importance of the wider global context. We have an outstanding international reputation in this area with world leading researchers. In addition, we attract a number of internationally renowned researchers to give guest lectures and seminars relating to this field. This module is an excellent choice if you are interested in Asia, international security, political economy, development, and international relations.

This module explores a number of cutting-edge research topics and is supported by the ongoing research work within the department. By choosing this module you will be challenged by the dynamism of a region that is among the fastest growing in the world. This module aims to give you the tools to effectively interrogate the challenges facing the region through interactive and engaging seminars, readings, guest lecturers, and group tasks.

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