Asia – Page 2

The Restarting of History and the Decline of the Liberal Democratic Order

In 1989, American political scientist and philosopher Francis Fukuyama wrote a now famous essay titled, ‘The End of History.’

36 years on from that monumental declaration, we find ourselves facing a world in which liberalism, the dominant global ideology, faces fatigue. The dream of a world of western democracy seems increasingly challenged and the history of global development seems far from settled. … Continue readingThe Restarting of History and the Decline of the Liberal Democratic Order

Who are the Tehrik-Taliban Pakistan and why are they important to Afghanistan-Pakistan relations?

The Tehrik-Taliban Pakistan or TTP, are a terrorist organisation that have created a significant security risk to Pakistan and aided further destabilisation in Central Asia. With the Taliban looking to play a legitimate role in the central Asian region, it looks like the TTP will be used as a bargaining chip in the Afghan-Pakistan relationship. … Continue readingWho are the Tehrik-Taliban Pakistan and why are they important to Afghanistan-Pakistan relations?

Ito Ay Manifestong Demokrasya: Elections, Political Culture, and Youth Power in Australia and the Philippines

There are likely many things that Philippine elections could learn from how elections are done in Australia. Preferential ballots, compulsory voting, and strong electoral transparency are only the beginnings of a list. However, views of Australian exceptionalism should not stop Australians looking for answers in unexpected places. Australians shouldn’t believe that they have nothing to learn from the conduct of Philippine democracy, or for that fact, any democracy. … Continue readingIto Ay Manifestong Demokrasya: Elections, Political Culture, and Youth Power in Australia and the Philippines

Signal of Opportunity: What the EU-India Free Trade Agreement means for Australia

After almost a decade of stalled talks, India and the European Union have pledged to establish a free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of this year. The new deal aims to remove domestic market barriers and encourage foreign domestic investment, while maintaining protections around geographical indications to ensure respective agricultural markets are not misused in the name of economic growth. The path to finalising this FTA has not been straightforward, and more roadblocks remain as leaders from both sides face diplomatic delays, increasing tariffs and protectionist challenges from other great powers. … Continue readingSignal of Opportunity: What the EU-India Free Trade Agreement means for Australia

Symbols, Songs and Social Movements: How Music Directly Contributes to the Momentum of Social Movements and Culture

Whilst Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy award winning diss track “Not Like Us” may have been the spotlight for many on the night of the Super Bowl, his performance and strong symbolism begs a bigger discussion on how music and artists contribute to the larger picture of social movements, political critique and activism. … Continue readingSymbols, Songs and Social Movements: How Music Directly Contributes to the Momentum of Social Movements and Culture

Korean Soft Power and the Hallyu Wave

Increased interest in South Korean culture improves its diplomatic capabilities, as it is able to attract and influence nations as a means of securing and maintaining a heightened status and role in the global community, as opposed to using military and economic power to force influence. Culture has become an indispensable asset in the global environment. … Continue readingKorean Soft Power and the Hallyu Wave

The Future in the Rear View Mirror: What’s happening in South Asia?

Bangladesh is now facing an uncertain future after months of political unrest led to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed fleeing the country, leaving her government leaderless. While an interim government was quickly established in an attempt to restore unity, Bangladesh is not out of the woods yet. … Continue readingThe Future in the Rear View Mirror: What’s happening in South Asia?

An Eye for an Eye: A Look into the Realities of the Death Penalty Today

We have certainly come a long way from the enthralling public displays of boiling, burning and beheading criminals, but perhaps the death penalty hasn’t actually evolved as much as we’d like to think. … Continue readingAn Eye for an Eye: A Look into the Realities of the Death Penalty Today

Energy Security and Transition: Navigating the Global Shift to Renewables

The global shift to renewable energy is reshaping energy security, traditionally reliant on fossil fuels, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and geopolitical dependence on oil-rich nations. Key players like the EU, China, and the U.S. lead this transition, creating jobs, economic growth, and altering geopolitical dynamics centered on critical materials and technology. … Continue readingEnergy Security and Transition: Navigating the Global Shift to Renewables

Taiwan’s E-Waste Management: A Model for Global Sustainability Amidst Geopolitical Challenges

In an ever-evolving landscape of global environmental challenges, electronic waste, or e-waste, has emerged as a pressing concern. Given the increased proliferation of electronic devices worldwide, responsible e-waste management is crucial for environmental sustainability, underscored by the global generation of approximately 53.6 million metric tons (Mt) of electronic waste in 2019, demanding urgent attention. … Continue readingTaiwan’s E-Waste Management: A Model for Global Sustainability Amidst Geopolitical Challenges

A MIAS Publication

Category: Asia