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Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
UAB Barcelona Summer School

International Relations Of East Asia

UAB

The International Politics of East Asia course offers an in-depth academic examination of one of the world's most economically and politically important regions. Home to China and Japan, the world's second and third largest economies, East Asia is a major global hub for finance, manufacturing, and trade. Yet, this economic dynamism exists against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions and unresolved conflicts that are the focus of this course.

The course begins with a historical contextualization, tracing East Asia’s development during the Cold War, a period marked by superpower rivalry and proxy wars. This historical perspective is crucial to understanding the region's contemporary political landscape, particularly the continuing impact of the Cold War legacy on current geopolitical tensions.

From there, the course moves on to an in-depth analysis of the modern dynamics within East Asia. Key areas of focus include:

  • The evolving roles of major powers such as China, Japan, the United States and South Korea, and their influence on the regional geopolitical landscape.
  • The strategic and political implications of China's rise as a regional and global power.
  • Developments in East Asian regionalism.
  • Issues concerning intra-regional security, with focus on the main flashpoints of tension such as the unresolved status of Taiwan, North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, and territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
  • The role of other powers: India, Australia, Russia, the EU.

The course takes a multi-dimensional approach, using lectures, readings, and discussions to explore these issues. In addition, students will participate in a simulation exercise designed to provide practical insight into the region's complex political dynamics and future challenges. This exercise is designed to reinforce theoretical knowledge with experiential learning, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of East Asia’s international politics.

By the end of the course, students will understand the main factors shaping East Asia’s international politics, combining historical background with an analysis of current geopolitical dynamics.

Important Notice on Course Suitability and Activities:

Some Summer School courses are designed for students with prior academic background in a specific discipline and may be unsuitable for participants without that preparation. 

In addition, certain courses include discipline-standard practical activities (for example, laboratory work with biological specimens, dissections, use of clinical or forensic material, field sampling, or other hands-on procedures) that may be unfamiliar or unsettling for some participants. 

Students are responsible for reading the course descriptor carefully and ensuring (i) that they meet any stated academic expectations or prerequisites, and (ii) that they are comfortable participating in the methods and activities described. 

If you are unsure about suitability, please contact the course lecturer(s) before enrolling.

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