Dimensions of Development. East Asia in the Process of Changes
Dimensions of Development. East Asia in the Process of Changes
Contributor(s): Dominik Mierzejewski (Editor)
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Geography, Regional studies, National Economy, Governance, Public Administration
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego
Keywords: dimensions;development;East Asia;process of changes
Summary/Abstract: The East Asia region has drawn global attention. China, Japan, the Korean Penisula and the ASEAN countries have been developing their economies and strenghtening their participation in global economy. Contrary to this smooth process, the region posesses a number of unresolved territorial issues and suffers from a lack of security complex. The volume presents a series of papers dedicated to the East Asian countries' development. The volume is divided into three sections: dimensions of regionalism in East Asia, China's external and internal development and Japanese domestic affairs
Series: Uniwersytet Łódzki
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-83-7525-935-3
- Page Count: 210
- Publication Year: 2013
- Language: English
East Asian Regionalism: Perspectives, Realities and the Future
East Asian Regionalism: Perspectives, Realities and the Future
(East Asian Regionalism: Perspectives, Realities and the Future)
- Author(s):Roger Y Chao Jr
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:11-23
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:East Asia;perspectives;realities;future
- Summary/Abstract:From the mid-1900s onwards, East Asian political developments, the East Asian Miracle, and regional integration initiatives in the region have facilitated a growing scholarship in East Asian political economy and regional issues. The 1997 Asian Financial Crisis and the recent global financial crises (2007 sub-prime crisis and the on-going European sovereign debt crisis) further highlighted the region. The former focused on the region’s weaknesses, while the later focused on its strengths in search of an Asian-led solution (in terms of economic capacity and growth) to support global economic growth and eventually contribute to the end of the recent string of global financial crises.
At the source of the lack of the security and cooperation complex in Northeast Asia
At the source of the lack of the security and cooperation complex in Northeast Asia
(At the source of the lack of the security and cooperation complex in Northeast Asia)
- Author(s):Anna Walkowiak
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:25-35
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:lack of the security;cooperation complex;Northeast Asia
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of this article is to present the reasons for the lack of security institutions in northeast Asia in the post-Cold War period and assess the Six-Party Talks ability to change this situation in the near future. In this article two theories of international relations will be applied to explain the current state of regional relations. A realistic perspective will be the dominant theoretical approach as it allows us to understand the situation in the region in terms of clash of interests in an anarchic reality. However, a few references to the theory of constructivism’s assumptions about the influence of culture are needed to better understand the specifics of the region
Finding the balance. The role of Australia-Japan cooperation in the shaping of the Asia-Pacific security architecture
Finding the balance. The role of Australia-Japan cooperation in the shaping of the Asia-Pacific security architecture
(Finding the balance. The role of Australia-Japan cooperation in the shaping of the Asia-Pacific security architecture)
- Author(s):Joanna Dobkowska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:37-48
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Australia-Japan cooperation;Asia-Pacific;security
- Summary/Abstract:This paper argues that Australia and Japan, taking a cooperative approach, are able to successfully re-shape the regional security architecture in the Asia-Pacific. Due to their ambiguous characteristics of being ‘in-between’ the East and the West, they are equipped with a unique set of tools allowing them to enhance the regional security cooperation framework. However, the question that remains is that of the shape of the potential cooperation and to what extent it would reflect the different – and sometimes contradicting – interests of regional players. The role of institutionalisation in the successful functioning of the security structure is discussed as well.
ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights: A “toothless tiger” or a prospect for a regional human rights regime in Southeast Asia?
ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights: A “toothless tiger” or a prospect for a regional human rights regime in Southeast Asia?
(ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights: A “toothless tiger” or a prospect for a regional human rights regime in Southeast Asia?)
- Author(s):Marta Kosmala-Kozłowska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:49-60
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:ASEAN;Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights;Southeast Asia
- Summary/Abstract:In 2007, after 15 years of deliberations on human rights within ASEAN, it espoused the creation of a human rights body in its landmark ASEAN Charter. It came into being in 2009 as the ASEAN Inter-Governmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR). The odds that AICHR will become a cornerstone of a human rights regime for ASEAN, or perhaps wider East Asia, are elaborated on in this paper. The divergence of opinions on the matter is significant. According to Surin Pitswuan, ASEAN’s current secretary general, it is expected to ‘pave the way for the growth of democracy and human rights in the region’ (ASEAN, 2009a).Thus, he sees the advisory and promotional competences of AICHR in an evolutionary perspective. Critics address its lack of independent enforcement and controlling or monitoring powers, deeming it a “toothless tiger” with little momentum to develop. It is too soon to tell anything definite, but I hypothesise that AICHR can be viably considered as the first piece of an evolving system of human rights protection. A Chinese adage points out that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This being already done, the following paper focuses on the next ones.
Institutional Changes in Malaysia. New dimensions of challenges after the global financial crisis
Institutional Changes in Malaysia. New dimensions of challenges after the global financial crisis
(Institutional Changes in Malaysia. New dimensions of challenges after the global financial crisis)
- Author(s):Paweł Raja
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:61-73
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:institutional changes;Malaysia;global financial crisis
- Summary/Abstract:In this short article the author has tried to point out the hot spots for necessary institutional changes in Malaysia. As the term of financial crisis has been discussed among the leaders of ASEAN one can perceive indispensable changes on a social base. In regards to the 10th Malaysia Plan, it is also distressing that the government does not pay enough attention to the reasons for the slower than expected rate of economic development.
Rethinking the Development of US-China Relations
Rethinking the Development of US-China Relations
(Rethinking the Development of US-China Relations)
- Author(s):Kao Pei-Shan
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:77-88
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:rethinking the development;US-China relations
- Summary/Abstract:This paper intends to examine the debates between realists and liberals on US-China relations since the end of the Cold War, with trade used as the primary case study to discuss and demonstrate the influence and effect of complex interdependence in this relationship. I will also use the findings of this research to predict a positive development of US-China relations.
Burma in China’s Foreign Policy: the consequences of the ‘Burmese thaw’ for China-Myanmar relations
Burma in China’s Foreign Policy: the consequences of the ‘Burmese thaw’ for China-Myanmar relations
(Burma in China’s Foreign Policy: the consequences of the ‘Burmese thaw’ for China-Myanmar relations)
- Author(s):Michał Lubina
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:89-99
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:Burma;China’s Foreign Policy;Burmese thaw;China-Myanmar relations
- Summary/Abstract:This paper gives an insight into Chinese-Burmese relations, focusing on important factors that have had an impact today. Firstly, it recaps the history of China and Burma. Secondly, it shows China’s two main reasons of engagement in Myanmar: the foreign one (the Malacca Dilemma) and the domestic one (the Western Development Strategy). Thirdly, it will summarize the consequences of Western sanctions on Myanmar. Fourthly, it shows the importance of Chinese influence on the present-day domestic situation in Burma. Fifthly, it presents the circumstances of the “Burmese thaw”. Finally, it providesan explanation on Burma’s importance in Chinese foreign policy and the implications of recent political changes in Myanmar for Chinese-Burmese relations.
Expected Future Trends in Chinese Outward Direct Investment in Africa
Expected Future Trends in Chinese Outward Direct Investment in Africa
(Expected Future Trends in Chinese Outward Direct Investment in Africa)
- Author(s):Nóra Szikorová
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:101-110
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:expected future trends;Chinese Outward Direct Investments;Africa
- Summary/Abstract:This paper presents an analysis of Chinese outward direct investments in Africa and projection of future investment flows. The motives that have led to a noticeable increase of these investments in Africa in the last 3 years were both based on the expansion to new markets and on cost minimization. The determinants associated with these motives in Africa are both primary commodity import, size of arable land, GDP, rule of law and trade relations.
China’s Civil Aviation at the Beginning of the 21st Century – Can Europe Remain Competitive?
China’s Civil Aviation at the Beginning of the 21st Century – Can Europe Remain Competitive?
(China’s Civil Aviation at the Beginning of the 21st Century – Can Europe Remain Competitive?)
- Author(s):Martin Grančay
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy
- Page Range:111-120
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:civil avionation;beginning of the 21st century;Europe;China
- Summary/Abstract:The paper is divided into six sections. After a brief introduction it provides a simple statistical comparison of selected civil aviation indicators in China and in the USA. The next three sections deal with the state of the three pillars of aviation in China; that is airports, airlines and aircraft production, as compared to the European Union. The final section provides conclusions about whether and how the European air transportation sector can remain competitive.
The Adjustment of China’s Regional Development Strategy and Its Impact on Intergovernmental Relations
The Adjustment of China’s Regional Development Strategy and Its Impact on Intergovernmental Relations
(The Adjustment of China’s Regional Development Strategy and Its Impact on Intergovernmental Relations)
- Author(s):Yang Long, Hu Huixuan
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Geography, Regional studies
- Page Range:121-132
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:China’s Regional Development Strategy;intergovernmental relations
- Summary/Abstract:Since 2008, many synthetically reform experimental districts have been set up, and a considerable number of local development planning has been promoted as national-level development strategies. This indicates some changes in the regional development strategy in China. The government has re-designed the regional development patterns and has decided on a regional development strategy based on more scientific national spatial planning. Moreover, the layout of regional development has become more detailed. At the same time, the state has encouraged the locals to develop their own characteristics according to their own advantages. By this way the state enriches the content of the national and regional development strategies. The adjustments in the national and regional development strategies have also led to changes in intergovernmental relations.
Food security in China in the beginning of the 21st century
Food security in China in the beginning of the 21st century
(Food security in China in the beginning of the 21st century)
- Author(s):Magdalena Senderowska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences, Economy
- Page Range:133-140
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:food security;China;21st century
- Summary/Abstract:First part of the paper considers the problem of defining food security and scientists’ current attitude towards defining and measuring the level of food security. The second part presents an overview of the current food security determinants and trends in the world as well as the current situation in this field. This is the background for the third part, which tackles the problem of food security in China, including current situation, the main challenges and the means taken to ensure this security.
Socio-economic stability, intra party democracy and the power transition in the Communist Party of China
Socio-economic stability, intra party democracy and the power transition in the Communist Party of China
(Socio-economic stability, intra party democracy and the power transition in the Communist Party of China)
- Author(s):Dominik Mierzejewski
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences, Economy
- Page Range:141-153
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:socio-economic stability;intra party democracy;power transition;Communist Party of China
- Summary/Abstract:The article mainly aims to discuss the critical factors of power transition within the Chinese Communist Party framework since the last peaceful transition between Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao. The major objective of the paper is to show when and how the changes in leadership came about. Moreover, the issues to answer have been: how have the historical experiences such as the Tiananmen crisis, the further opening-up in 1992 or economic performance affected the political transition in Mainland China? What kind of internal determinants have played a crucial role in a venerable or peaceful succession? The major issue to discuss is how economic performance might challenge the issue of peaceful transition at the central level.
New Parties in Japan – In the Search of a “Third Pole” on the Political Scene
New Parties in Japan – In the Search of a “Third Pole” on the Political Scene
(New Parties in Japan – In the Search of a “Third Pole” on the Political Scene)
- Author(s):Karol Żakowski
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences
- Page Range:157-169
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:new parties in Japan;“Third Pole”;political scene
- Summary/Abstract:The main aim of this paper is to compare the political stances of the conservative parties established since 2005 and to analyze to what degree they can become an alternative to the LDP and DPJ. Although many Japanese people were disappointed with both major parties, under the current electoral system it was very difficult for smaller formations to become a credible “third pole” on the political scene. However, the parliamentary success of the JRA in the December 2012 election showed that under special conditions even smaller groups could challenge the domination of the two major parties.
Unconventional Monetary Policy in Japan: An Empirical Study on its Effectiveness
Unconventional Monetary Policy in Japan: An Empirical Study on its Effectiveness
(Unconventional Monetary Policy in Japan: An Empirical Study on its Effectiveness)
- Author(s):Atsushi Tanaka
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy
- Page Range:171-181
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:monetary policy;Japan;effectiveness;empirical study
- Summary/Abstract:This paper examined the unconventional monetary policy in Japan. Its features were examined, and then some possible routes of the transmission mechanism for the policy to aff ect real business activities were explored. The conventional routes are invalid since the call rate is at zero. The unconventional routes, the commitment effect and portfolio rebalance effect were examined; however, most of the past empirical studies show pessimistic results about these effects.
Didn’t it mean a thing fit ain’t got that swing? Swing Voters and Accountability Mechanism in the Japanese Lower House Election 2009
Didn’t it mean a thing fit ain’t got that swing? Swing Voters and Accountability Mechanism in the Japanese Lower House Election 2009
(Didn’t it mean a thing fit ain’t got that swing? Swing Voters and Accountability Mechanism in the Japanese Lower House Election 2009)
- Author(s):Masahiro Yamada
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences
- Page Range:183-198
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Swing Voters;accountability mechanism;Japanese Lower House Election 2009
- Summary/Abstract:This paper investigates the democratic accountability mechanism. It is essential to democracy that voters are able to create a shift in national political power through an election when they are dissatisfied with the performance of the current government. The question is who can trigger such a shift in Japan’s 2009 LH election: knowledgeable or uninformed voters? Our result shows that swing voters are neither outstandingly knowledgeable nor ideal citizens. The study’s findings on political knowledge indicate that they are very ordinary people. On the other hand, the DPJ stayers in the study were more knowledgeable than average voters, and the LDP stayers and swing voters followed the DPJ stayers. Given the unpopularity of the cabinet at the time of the election, some people who regarded the DPJ as more capable of managing government swung from the LDP to the DPJ. Thus, swing voters in 2009 made the same voting choice as the DPJ stayers, who were the most politically knowledgeable. Should their decision be criticized, or did it make sense in terms of political knowledgeability?
Twitter and Local Political Candidates in Japan: An Analysis of the 2011 Osaka Prefectural Assembly Election
Twitter and Local Political Candidates in Japan: An Analysis of the 2011 Osaka Prefectural Assembly Election
(Twitter and Local Political Candidates in Japan: An Analysis of the 2011 Osaka Prefectural Assembly Election)
- Author(s):Tetsukazu Okamoto
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences
- Page Range:199-210
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:twitter;local political candidates;Japan;2011 Osaka Prefectural Assembly Election
- Summary/Abstract:This study analysed the factors that impact the adoption of Twitter by political candidates. The findings obtained do not necessarily support the normalization thesis; the affiliation with major parties only had a limited impact on the usage of Twitter, and the dominance of incumbents does not affect Twitter usage.