Global Politics: Recent Episodes

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Global Politics

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The relationship with China is of critical importance to Australia. It is also increasingly complex, being influenced by economics, domestic factors and strategic forces.

Yet it is a relationship with underlying tension. China and Australia sometimes find themselves on different sides of the table in some bilateral issues, and disagreements over foreign investment in Australia, influence, and the interests of allied countries might prevent further successful co-operation or interaction.

This panel discusses the key challenges and opportunities confronting the bilateral relationship of China and Australia.

Panellists:

Professor Nick Bisley (Head of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University)

Dr Dan Hu (Deputy Director, Australian Studies Centre, Beijing Foreign Studies University)

Rowan Callick (Journalist, author, advisory board member of La Trobe Asia)

Professor John Fitzgerald (Centre for Social Impact, Swinburne University of Technology)

Dr Euan Graham (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University)(Chair)

The Launch of Issue 2 of the La Trobe Asia Brief: Australia-China Relations: Finding the Elusive Balance.

Recorded at the State Library of Victoria on 30 July, 2019.

Australia has implemented a wide range of policies which, while not explicitly anti-China, are definitely interpreted that way. Other countries are taking notice and inspiration from such actions.

Find out more about the La Trobe Asia Brief on Australia-China relations.

www.latrobe.edu.au/news/announceme…china-relations

Guest:

Dr Dan Hu (Deputy Director, Australia Studies Centre, Beijing Foreign Studies University)

Recorded on 18 July, 2019.

For decades in Australia we have assumed that America will prevent any serious emerging military threats to Australia, or defend us from them if they do, but now America's power in Asia is waning and those old assumptions are no longer valid.

So what now? We have never really tried to defend ourselves independently, but now we may have no choice. Can it be done, and if so how? What do we really need to defend? What forces do we need? How much would they cost and how serious are the threats?

Speakers:

Professor Hugh White (Emeritus Professor of Strategic Studies, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University)

Dr Euan Graham (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia)

The Melbourne launch of How to Defend Australia by Hugh White, published by La Trobe University Press.

Presented at the State Library of Victoria on 17 July, 2019.

In recent years, the Indian and Chinese states have become increasingly assertive in the Himalaya. Driven in part by their mutual enmity and border disputes, both states have undertaken massive infrastructure developments, enabling vast new extractive projects, and a rush of troops and tourists from the plains to the mountains.

These political tensions have dangerous ecological consequences. All Himalayan states are building large dams to facilitate development. The Himalayan ice pack moderates monsoonal rains in Asia and feeds most of the region’s large rivers. This system provides 40 per cent of the world’s population with water. To make matters worse, the Himalaya is experiencing climate change at twice global averages.

With these political and environmental transformations, the lives of the region’s diverse peoples, including its refugee populations, along with broader ideas of citizenship and belonging, are being changed and challenged.

Speakers:

Associate Professor Sonika Gupta (IIT Madras)

Dr Ruth Gamble (David Myers Research Fellow, La Trobe University)

Dr Alexander Davis (New Generation Network Scholar, La Trobe University)

Chair:

Dr Gerald Roche (Senior Research Fellow, Politics, La Trobe University)

Presented at the La Trobe University City Campus on 26 June, 2019.

When talking about Chinese international politics, the loudest voices are often western ones, and the Chinese perspective is limited to official party lines.

In a rare interview, Professor Zhu Feng gives his thoughts on the US/China trade war, the South China Sea, China relations with Australia, and China's activity in the South Pacific.

Guest: Professor Zhu Feng (Executive Director, China Center for Collaborative Studies of the South China Sea, Nanjing University)

Interviewer: Dr Euan Graham (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia)

Producer: Matt Smith

Recorded 23 June, 2019.

For the most part, China has seen Australia as an especially agreeable and non-troubling partner, as a predictable American security ally but with a friendly twist. This is changing, and the pressure is intensifying for Australia to rebuild its standings with Beijing.

Find out more about the La Trobe Asia Brief on Australia-China relations.

https://www.latrobe.edu.au/news/announcements/2019/australia-china-relations

Guest:

Rowan Callick (Journalist, author, advisory board member of La Trobe Asia)

Follow La Trobe Asia on Twitter: www.twitter.com/latrobeasia

Recorded 30 May, 2019.

China and India share a 4000km long border, and it’s been a relationship that has had its tense moments. This situation is made all the more complicated by the Brahmaputra river - rivers recognise no borders, and its resources are always in high demand.

Guest: Dr Ruth Gamble (David Myers Research Fellow, La Trobe University)

For most defectors the decision to leave North Korea is never an easy one, and there are major difficulties in addressing the refugee crisis. Those crossing into China risk arrest and deportation, and the safety of those left behind is often in question.

Hyeonseo Lee defected from North Korea in 1997, and has since become an activist for human rights. Her memoir, The Girl with Seven Names, is a New York Times best seller.

Guest:

Hyeonseo Lee

When Narendra Modi and the BJP won the 2014 election in India they did so under the slogan 'Achhe din aane waale hain' - Good days are coming.

With an impending election, we give Modi's progress a report card. Have good days come to India?

Guest:

Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University)

In the Chinese region of Xinjiang, tens of thousands of ethnic Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities have been detained inside enormous extrajudicial ‘re-education camps’.

China claims the region faces a serious threat from Islamist militants and separatists, stirring up tensions between the mostly Muslim Uyghur minority and the ethnic Han majority. After months of denial, the Chinese government now claims these camps are benign vocational training centers, but many outside observers assert that they are little more than prisons where detainees are subjected to political and cultural indoctrination without legal recourse.

As more allegations come to light about the treatment of Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities, China faces mounting pressure from international human rights groups, governments, and academics to provide access to these camps and put an end to any coercive and illegal practices.

Speaking on Uyghurs in China and how the world should react are:

Nury A Turkel (Uyghur Human Rights Project)
James Leibold (Associate Professor, Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University)
Louisa Greve (Uyghur Human Rights Project)
Euan Graham (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) (chair)

Co-hosted by the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) Victoria, on 7th December 2018.

There are 22 official languages in India, but more than 780 have been recognised. It can be a challenge to communicate across the country, and while the most common language is Hindi there’s communication of all sorts in a variety of dialects and scripts.

Guest:

Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University)

Dr Ian Woolford (Lecturer in Hindi, La Trobe University)

Religion and caste divides Indians in many ways - religion primarily between Hindu and Muslim, with Hindu further divided by a complex caste system which can influence how they work, how they live and even who they marry.

While laws and social initiatives have tried to to counteract inequality and discrimination, it does still happen.

Guest:

Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University)

With a fast-growing population and aspirations to join the throwaway prosperity of the developed world, India generates vast quantities of waste, sewerage and pollution. How does it live with and deal with the problem?

Guest:

Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University)

Assoc. Professor Assa Doron (College of Asia and the Pacific. Australian National University)

The Indian National Congress party in India has mostly looked to the Nehru-Gandhi family for leadership, making them powerful figures in India’s political landscape. Four members of the family have been Prime Minister of the country, but does the current leader, Rahul Gandhi, have what it takes?

Guest: Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University).

India goes to the polls in 2019, and the popular incumbent Narendra Modi is currently favoured to retain his position. With close to a billion people eligible to vote elections in India promises to be a busy time and an organisational quagmire.

Guest: Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University).

The vibrant fashion styles of Tokyo are notable for their colour and playfullness, and the shojo culture (girls) draw on anime, manga, literature, film and cosplay.

The distinctive fashion movement has evolved to embrace culture and identity, and in this panel we will hear from four experts about shojo and kawaii (cute) studies.

Dr Lucy Fraser is a specialist on Japanese fairy tales and girl culture.
Dr Emerald L King is Japanese literature scholar and cosplayer.
Dr Masafumi Monden is an expert on Japanese fashion.
Megan Catherine Rose specialises in kawaii fashion communities in Tokyo.
Madman MC and cosplayer K (chair).

It was co-hosted by La Trobe Asia and the Japan Foundation, Sydney. It was recorded on 1st November, 2018 at the State Library of Victoria.

In 2017 India celebrated 70 years of independence from British rule. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the country, calling for the people to set aside their differences.

"India is about peace, unity and goodwill," said Modi. "We have to take the country ahead with the determination of creating a new India."

Can a new India emerge from the old? How has it been shaped by its years in the British Empire?

Guest: Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University).

India will soon be unveiling the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity. At 182m tall it towers over its nearest competitor by more than 50m.

The statue in the Narmada district of Gujarat is of independence leader Vallabhbhai Patel. The project has been championed by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and is not without controversy.

Guest:

Dr Alexander Davis (New Generation Network Postdoctoral Fellow with La Trobe University and the Australian India Institute).

The Bund, or Wai Tan in Chinese, is a waterfront strip in central Shanghai. It is within the former Shanghai International Settlement, and so all the buildings there have a grand colonial feeling, right across the river from the Pudong district, with some of the most modern and radical skyscrapers you’ll see.

Guest:

Associate Professor James Leibold (Department of Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University)

Asia is at a dangerous moment. China is rising fast, North Korea may be assembling more nuclear weapons, Japan is building up its military and The United States, for so long a stabilising presence in Asia, is behaving erratically. What can the world’s major powers can do to avoid an eruption of war?

Guests:

Associate Professor Brendan Taylor (Strategic Studies at the Australian National University, author of ‘The Four Flashpoints: How Asia Goes to War’)

In recent months there has been intense speculation in the media and in policy forums about China’s involvement in the Pacific. In turn, this has raised questions about the Australia’s historical and continuing role in the region, as well as evolving issues around sovereignty and neo-colonialism.

Is the sovereignty of Pacific nations under threat? Or is China really providing aid only in order to help those nations attain sustainable development? Should Australia be doing more to support Pacific nations and, if so, what form should this take?

Speakers:

The Hon. John Brumby (Former Premier of Victoria, currently President of the Australia China Business Council, and incoming Chancellor of La Trobe University).

Ms Makereta Komai (Manager/Editor, Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) and author of ‘Fiji’s Foreign Policy and the New Pacific Diplomacy’ in The New Pacific Diplomacy, edited by Greg Fry and Sandra Tarte, ANU Press, 2015)

Chaired by Professor Nick Bisley (Head of School of Humanities and Social Sciences at La Trobe University)

A public forum hosted by La Trobe University’s Pacific Research Community, La Trobe Asia, and the China Studies Research Centre.

Held on 20th September, 2018.

East Asia’s security environment is changing rapidly. China’s power and confidence is rising, the US is increasingly introspective and uncertainty abounds about its power and purpose.As a new equilibrium has yet to be established in the security order, how can middle ranking countries like Japan and Australia manage their interests?

Guests:

Professor Nick Bisley (Head of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University)

Dr Rebecca Strating (Lecturer in Politics, La Trobe University)

Asia is at a dangerous moment. China is rising fast, and its regional ambitions are growing. Reckless North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un may be assembling more nuclear weapons, despite diplomatic efforts to eradicate his arsenal. Japan is building up its military, throwing off constitutional constraints imposed after World War II. The United States, for so long a stabilising presence in Asia, is behaving erratically: The possibility of global catastrophe looms ever closer.

Geopolitical expert Brendan Taylor is Associate Professor of Strategic Studies at the Australian National University. His new book The Four Flashpoints, examines the areas of Asia most likely to erupt in sudden and violent conflict: the Korean Peninsula, the East China Sea, the South China Sea and Taiwan. He is in conversation with Professor Nick Bisley, Head of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at La Trobe University.

This event is the Melbourne book launch of Brendan Taylor's The Four Flashpoints: How Asia Goes to War, published by La Trobe University Press. It was recorded at the State Library of Victoria on 28th August 2018.

For decades Australia’s security and economic policy has been developed based on an established regional order coming out of World War II, but we are now in turbulent times. Strong personalities and strained tensions means a change in the balance of power in the Asian region.

Guest:

Gareth Evans (Former politician and cabinet minister during the Hawke and Keating governments and foreign minister from 1988 to 1996. Chancellor of the Australian National University).

Waste in India is an important and visible issue, and the country is struggling to manage and process recycling. While a reported 60% of plastics are recycled the volume of garbage is immense, and much of the industry is informal.

Guest: Assoc. Professor Assa Doron (College of Asia and the Pacific. Australian National University)

For most defectors the decision to leave North Korea is never an easy one, and there are major difficulties in addressing the refugee crisis. Those crossing into China risk arrest and deportation, and the safety of those left behind is often in question.

The status of these refugees is an international issue, and they face a challenge of accessing support and services once they reach safety. While many settle in South Korea there is now a global North Korean diaspora, shaping the global policy debate towards North Korea. All of this could face imminent change with evolving international relations.

SPEAKERS:

Hyeonseo Lee

North Korean refugee, Author The Girl with Seven Names

Dr Danielle Chubb

Senior Lecturer in International Relations, Deakin University

Dr Jay Song

Senior Lecturer in Korean Studies, University of Melbourne

Dr Rebecca Strating (Chair)

Lecturer in Politics, La Trobe University

A La Trobe Asia event in partnership with the 2018 Bendigo Writers Festival. Held at the State Library of Victoria on 8th August, 2018.

Japan is one of many countries faced with an ageing population, but the problem is quite pronounced. The world's lowest fertility rate combined with a high life expectancy gives it the oldest mean age in the world of 46.1. A third of Japanese are aged over 60, and the country's population is falling.

Guest:

Associate Professor Nobuhiro Aizawa (Center for Asia-Pacific Future Studies at Kyushu University).

The mausoleum of Emperor Qin is a national treasure of China, and is known throughout the world for the army of terracotta warriors that guard his final resting place.

The army of terracotta warriors is vast, and we are still discovering how they are made,and how best to preserve them.

Guest:

Xiuzhen Li (Senior Archaeologist, Emperor Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum)

On 12th June 2018 the world witnessed a peace summit between two long feuding leaders the United States president Donald Trump and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-Un. While the meeting was unprecedented but did it deliver anything worthwhile, or was it just a glorified photo-op?

Guest:

Dr Michael Cohen (Senior lecturer at the National Security College, Crawford School of Public Policy, ANU College of Asia and the Pacific). The author of 'When Proliferation causes Peace: The Psychology of Nuclear Crises' published by Goergetown University Press.

In recent history the world witnessed a peace summit between the United States president Donald Trump and North Korean dictator Kim-Jong Un. While Trump cites his negotiating and business skills in bring Kim to the table, Kim would likely see it as an acknowledgement of the threat he poses with viable nuclear weapons.

Does state acquisition of nuclear weapons lead to stability and peace or instability and crisis?

Speaker:

Dr Michael Cohen (Senior lecturer at the National Security College, Crawford School of Public Policy, ANU College of Asia and the Pacific). The author of 'When Proliferation causes Peace: The Psychology of Nuclear Crises' published by Goergetown University Press.

This talk was recorded on the 20th June 2018 at the city campus of La Trobe University.

Chinese philosophy has a long history stretching back more than two thousand years and covers schools of thought such as Confucianism, Taoism, Legalism, and Buddhism. It has had a deep influence on the cultural and political development of the nation and people of China.

Guest:

Professor John Makeham (Director of the China Studies Research Centre, La Trobe University).

China's economy has long been a story of success and growth, and being the second largest in the world has given it a position of power in the global economy.

But could there be signs of an economic slowdown ahead of China? What steps would they have to take to safely navigate it?

Guest:

Professor Michael Pettis (Finance, Peking University).

India’s fast-growing population, and aspirations to join the throwaway prosperity of the developed world, generate vast quantities of waste, sewage and pollution. In attempting to mitigate these problems, India displays strengths and weaknesses, and the Clean India campaign has found successful techniques as well as discovering strategies that do not work. Some of India’s experiments hold lessons for Australia.

The panel examines the Indian experience of waste removal, public sanitation, recycling and local-government dilemmas with special reference to India’s economic and population growth and to the role caste plays in the contest to control waste.

SPEAKERS

Assa Doron is Associate Professor in Anthropology at the College of Asia & the Pacific, Australian National University (ANU).

Robin Jeffrey is an Emeritus Professor of Politics at La Trobe University and the ANU and chairs an advisory panel for the Australia-India Institute.

Dolly Kikon, a lawyer from northeastern India, has a doctorate from Stanford University and is a lecturer at the School of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Melbourne.

CHAIR

Sally Warhaft is a Melbourne broadcaster, anthropologist and writer.

Melbourne book launch of Waste of a Nation: Garbage and Growth in India by Assa Doron and Robin Jeffrey (Harvard University Press).

This event is a collaboration between La Trobe Asia and the Australian India Institute (AII). It was held at the Wheeler Centre in Melbourne on 31st May, 2018.

Asia’s elderly population is on track to reach a billion by 2050, and there are few governments prepared to meet this change, which will have wide social and economic consequences.

Guest:

Professor Thomas Klassen (Political Science at York University in Ontario, Canada).

The future of the Indo-Pacific region is being buffeted by an array of complex forces including the return of great power rivalry, rising illiberalism, and growing nationalism.

SPEAKERS:

The Hon Julie Bishop MP (Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party)

Professor Nick Bisley (Head, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University)

Tony Walker (Vice-Chancellor’s Fellow, La Trobe University)

Dr Rebecca Strating (Lecturer in International Relations, Department of Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University)

In partnership with La Trobe University’s Ideas and Society Program.

Recorded at Grand Hyatt Melbourne on 1th April 2018.

Any visitor to China will be acutely aware of the amount of security, and nowhere is this more visible than the nation’s capital, Beijing. Guards are frequent, Cameras are plentiful, and the electronic data mining is extensive.

GUEST:

Bill Birtles (China Correspondent, Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

Theme music: Asian Wonders by Butterfly Tea

The Chinese education system has had its criticisms, but many argue that it delivers, at least in the larger cities such as Shanghai and Hong Kong. Students are pushed to study, with many students attending after-school tutoring, and qualities such as respect and dedication are held to a higher standard than that of western education systems.

GUEST:

Lenora Chu (American journalist, author of Little Soldiers: An American Boy, a Chinese School, and the Global Race to Achieve’)

Theme music: Asian Wonders by Butterfly Tea

Indonesia is a sprawling nation of islands across south-east Asia, and two environmental concerns are significant – deforestation and rising sea levels. The deforestation rate is one of the highest in the world, and rising sea levels threaten much of their territory, including the capital, Jakarta.

GUEST:

Dr Dirk Tomsa (Senior Lecturer, Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University).

China operates on a scale that outclasses every other country, and are taking climate change seriously. As the world’s biggest polluter many would say that this is the way it should be.

But does this give China an advantage and a global platform in green leadership? And are they making the most of it?

GUEST:

Dr Benjamin Habib (Lecturer, Politics and International Relations, La Trobe University).

North Korea is a country that can little afford a close examination of ecological impact. The environment exists and is protected as long as it is useful as a resource to the authoritative state.

Despite this it holds an important place in the mythology of the country, and retaining elements of it is useful, as long as they can be exploited.

GUEST:

Dr Robert Winstanley-Chesters (Research Fellow, College of Asia and the Pacific, Australian National University)

Follow Robert Winstanley-Chesters on Twitter: @rwinstanleyc

Follow Benjamin Habib on Twitter: @drbenjaminhabib

Follow La Trobe Asia on Twitter: @LaTrobeAsia

India struggles with environmental imperatives. Its cities have the worst air pollution in the world, its iconic rivers are, in some places, literally dead and human development pressures will often override concerns of the natural environment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made commitments to clean up India, but can he follow through with his promises? Are there more invested interests in pushing forward with industrial projects, and does India's environment have the time to be neglected?

GUEST:

Professor Amita Baviskar, (Sociologist, Economic Institute of Growth, Delhi).

Follow La Trobe Asia on Twitter: @LaTrobeAsia

With China's emergence as a power of the first rank it has changed the Asian region and indeed the world. It has reordered established patterns of trade and investment, unsettled a longstanding balance of power in Asia, and brought old historical antagonisms to the surface. As President Xi Jinping consolidates his power, China increasingly presents a confident and at times assertive face to the wider world.

But what does China want from its region? How much change would this represent? What options exist for Australia to influence how the People's Republic comports itself on the wider global stage?

GUEST:

The Hon. Kevin Rudd (Former Prime Minister of Australia, President of the Asia Society Policy Unit).

Follow Kevin Rudd on Twitter: @krudd

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: @NickBisley

Follow La Trobe Asia on Twitter: @LaTrobeAsia

China’s emergence as a global power of the first rank has changed the Asian region and the world. It has reordered established patterns of trade and investment, unsettled a long standing balance of power in Asia and brought old historical antagonisms to the surface.

What options exist for Australia to influence how the People’s Republic comports itself on the wider global stage?

SPEAKERS:

Kevin Rudd (Former Prime Minister of Australia)

Linda Jakobson (CEO, China Matters)

Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University)

Recorded on October 26, 2017 at The Sofitel, Melbourne.

China and Australia have relationship anchored by strong trade bonds, and there is a respectful prime-ministerial level dialogue between the two countries.

Yet it is a relationship with underlying tension. China and Australia sometimes find themselves on different sides of the table in some bilateral issues, and disagreements over foreign investment in Australia, influence, and the interests of allied countries might prevent further successful co-operation or interaction.

This panel will discuss the key challenges and opportunities confronting the bilateral relationship of China and Australia.

SPEAKERS:

Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University)

Professor Chen Hong (Australian Studies Centre, East China Normal University)

Professor Hou Minyue (Australian Studies Centre, East China Normal University)

Assoc Professor James Leibold (Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University)

Recorded on November 21, 2017 at East China Normal University, Shanghai.

Australia has a vital set of relationships with its Asian neighbours, built on the foundation of shared geography, security interests and mutually beneficial trade. Over recent decades Japan and China have become global powerhouses and India may yet join them. Having strong, beneficial relations with these countries will only become more important.

One of the most important figures in building these relationships is Gareth Evans. When he became Foreign Minister in September 1988 he prioritised building a strong relationship between Australia and Asian countries, navigating the troubled relationship with Indonesia, working closely with China and other regional powers in initiating the UN peace plan for Cambodia, and playing key roles in the creation of new regional economic and security policy architecture with APEC and the ASEAN Regional Forum.

This conversation reflects on Gareth Evans’ time in office, discuss his thoughts on Australia’s place in Asia and how our region’s future may unfold. He is in conversation with Professor Nick Bisley, executive director of La Trobe Asia.

Gareth Evans was a member of parliament and Cabinet member throughout the Hawke-Keating years. His newbook, Incorrigible Optimist: A Political Memoir is published by Melbourne University Publishing.

Recorded at the State Library of Victoria on 15 November, 2017.

Western countries are impressed by the performance of China's schools in international tests and search for the secrets of their success, but are we overlooking the punishing nature of elite schooling in China and its role in increasing inequality?

Guest:

Professor Edward Vickers (Comparative Education, Kyushu University), co-author of Education and Society in Post-Mao China (Routledge 2017).

India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is a man with strong views on economics. He came into office in 2014 with a vision for India to be a global manufacturing power, and promises that his leadership will usher in economic revival.

Has Modi's economic leadership paid off, or is India still waiting for the cheque to clear?

Guest:

Adam Roberts (former South Asia correspondent for the Economist, current Europe business correspondent, author of "Superfast Primetime Ultimate Nation: the Relentless Invention of Modern India”)

For the past 15 years western democracies have appeared to reach a crisis point. Cynicism towards political institutions is widespread, with results in the UK and the United States the most visible manifestation of this trend.

In contrast, the Chinese Communist Party has overseen the greatest advancement in human development history, and maintained social stability and cohesion at the same time. Is there something structurally wrong with liberal democracy, and does China have a better model for managing politics in the 21st century?

Guest: Professor Daniel Bell (Dean, School of Political Science and Public Administration, Shandong University)

Modern India stands on the threshold of becoming a global power. As it seeks to revitalise its economy and improve the health and education prospects of its citizens, improve its fractious relations with China and Pakistan and make its mark on the global stage, the key to understanding its future lies in understanding its leader.

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi is a controversial figure in his own country and abroad. He has garnered unprecedented political support while facing criticism for his nationalism, his record in government and his economic policies. With his leadership India has enormous potential and equally vast challenges.

Adam Roberts, journalist for the Economist (between 2010 and 2015 was its South Asia bureau chief) and author of Superfast Primetime Ultimate Nation, which draws on years of on-the-ground research, and interviews with everyone from wayside fortune-tellers to Modi himself, will be in conversation with Professor Nick Bisley, Executive Director of La Trobe Asia.

A La Trobe Asia event in partnership with Griffith Asia Institute.

Much of migration to Melbourne is studied in a post-war context dominated by Greeks and Italians fleeing a post-war Europe, but it undoubtedly goes back much further. Asian migrants played a notable part in the city’s growth, and these people bought new languages and culture with them.

Guest: Dr Nadia Rhook ( Archaeology and History, La Trobe University)

Recent years have witnessed mingled alarm and envy in the West at the supposed excellence of China's education system - epitomized by Shanghai's PISA success. But much public discussion of the context for that success, and of the nature of the education system that has produced it, remains worryingly superficial.

Drawing on a new monograph, Education and Society in Post-Mao China (Routledge 2017), this talk re-examines the educational record of China during the four decades of 'Reform and Opening'.

It argues that evaluation of this record depends very much on the evaluator's comparative perspective and ethical assumptions. Notwithstanding its impressive performance on many counts, education in Post-Mao China has played a key role in fostering radical social stratification - a role that is not accidental, but intrinsic to the system's design.

Edward Vickers is a Professor of Comparative Education at Kyushu University. His research focuses on the contemporary history of education in Chinese societies (mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong), with a particular focus on the role of schools and other public institutions in political socialization.

China’s political and economic growth in the past three decades has been rapid and impressive, and central to this transformation has been the role of the Chinese communist Party. It controls the government, courts, media and military, and its decisions have a global impact.

Guest: Richard McGregor, journalist and author of ‘The Party: The Secret World of China’s Communist Rulers’.

A North Korean threat is a reality Asia has had to deal with for some time, but now that they have nuclear weapons that can reach the United States mainland the stakes of changed.

Tensions on the Korean peninsula remain high, and two unpredictable and strong-willed leaders, Kim Jong-Un and Donald Trump, could escalate the situation quickly.

Guests:

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia)

Dr Benjamin Habib (Lecturer, International Relations, La Trobe University)

The Philippines’ maverick president, Rodrigo Duterte, has had a turbulent first year in office.

His crime fighting agenda, popular with the middle class during the election, has delivered a bloody and devastating war on drugs with crowded prisons and thousands killed in the streets. Internal conflict with Islamic State-backed groups has led to martial law on the island of Mindanao and threats of civil war.

With five years left in his term of presidency, what can the Philippines and the world expect from Duterte?

In this discussion two experts give their assessment of how Duterte has fared in his first year.

Dr Nicole Curato (ARC Discovery Early Career Research Fellow in the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance at the University of Canberra.)

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia and Professor of International Relations at La Trobe University.)

A live event presented by La Trobe Asia in partnership with the Philippines Australia Studies Centre on 16th August, 2017.

Japan has a challenging future. Its population is declining, the economy remains anaemic while the country’s security environment is extremely challenging.

North Korea presents an existential threat, and China’s growing military power threatens the country’s long-term interests. Even though it is an affluent country the restrictive constitution forced on it after World War II places limitations on Japan’s military and makes it dependent on its ally, the United States.

Murray McLean (Former Australian Ambassador to Japan (2004-2011)) speaks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about the impact a more strategically influential Japan could have on Asia and the world.

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: @NickBisley

Follow La Trobe Asia on Twitter: @latrobeasia

For more than half a century, American power in the Pacific has successfully kept the peace. But it has also cemented the tensions in the toxic rivalry between China and Japan, consumed with endless history wars and entrenched political dynasties.

Now, the combination of these forces with Donald Trump's unpredictable impulses and disdain for America's old alliances threatens to upend the region, and accelerate the unravelling of the postwar order. If the United States helped lay the postwar foundations for modern Asia, now the anchor of the global economy, that structure is now crumbling.

This seminar examines the tectonic shifts in diplomacy, domestic political trends, and the personalities driving them.

Richard McGregor is a journalist and an author with extensive experience in reporting from East Asia and Washington. He worked for The Australian in Tokyo and Hong Kong and established the paper's first China bureau in Beijing in 1997. He later headed the Financial Times bureaux in Shanghai, Beijing and Washington. He is the author of The Party, looking at political leadership in China, and a forthcoming book, Asia's Reckoning: China, Japan, the US and the Struggle for Global Power will be published in September 2017.

A La Trobe Asia seminar recorded on 1st August, 2017.

In recent years, the English-speaking world has become wildly enthusiastic about India. India is a trusted ally, ‘the world’s largest democracy’, and it’s the ‘democratic counterweight’ to China.

Despite these pronouncements, India has continually defied and confounded the expectations of the English-speaking world. Dr Alexander Davis, (New Generation Network research fellow with La Trobe University Department of Politics and Philosophy and the Australia India Institute) speaks to Matt Smith about the English-speaking world's 'India problem'.

Follow Alex Davis on Twitter: @AlexEDavisNGN

Follow La Trobe Asia on Twitter: @latrobeasia

The Great Wall has long been a symbol of China, but a problematic one - an authentic experience can be hard to find, and in the modern day China wants to be seen as open and inviting, but a wall closes off, and keeps people out.

Associate Professor James Leibold (Department of Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University) and Dr Graeme Smith (Research Fellow at the Australian National University) take Matt Smith on a tour of the Great Wall of China.

Globalisation and major power rivalry are creating a China-centric integrated Asian strategic system, drawing together the once-discrete theatres of Northeast, Southeast, South and Central Asia. Nationalist ambition among the region’s giants will make integrated Asia an unstable place where cooperation among the great powers will be much harder to achieve than in the past.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) speaks to Dr Andrew Carr (Senior Lecturer, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University) about changing strategic geography.

This podcast was recorded live at the launch the new Centre of Gravity Paper ‘Integrated Asia’ by Nick Bisley, on 20th June, 2017.

Is Tibetanness under threat? As more young Tibet are lured towards a dominant Chinese education, Tibetans are faced with hard realities of ethnocultural survival.

Dr Adrian Zenz (European School of Culture and Theology, Germany) speaks to Associate Professor James Leibold (Politics, La Trobe University) about the challenges facing Tibetan language and culture in China.

On 14 May this year 33 world leaders gathered in Beijing for what has been touted as the inaugural Belt and Road Forum for international Cooperation. Billed as the biggest diplomatic event in China this year the summit was ostensibly about improving economic integration between East and West and providing leadership to a global economy going through difficult times.

Dr Luca Anceschi (Lecturer in Central Asian Studies, University of Glasgow) joins Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) to discuss the Belt and Road Initiative and its potential to usher in a new era of Chinese global dominance.

Follow Luca Anceschi on Twitter: @anceschistan

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: @nickbisley

Since the fall of President Suharto’s new order regime in 1998, culture has exploded in Indonesia, and nowhere is this more evident than in the media. With increases in media providers comes increases in diversity of media forums and media content. With such an increasing in offering comes an altering of the public discourse that can further change democracy and modernity.

Professor Ariel Heryanto (Herb Feith Professor for the Study of Indonesia at Monash University) speaks to Matt Smith about the politics and development of Indonesian screen culture.

Australia is a country that depends on investment, and normally we can't welcome it enough. But money coming from China is different, can be at odds with strategic interests, and can cause considerable tension.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia) is joined by Hannah Bretherton (Project Coordinator and Researcher at China Matters) to discuss the issues and challenges associated with Chinese investment in Australia.

In Fear of Abandonment, expert and insider Allan Gyngell tells the story of how Australia has shaped the world and been shaped by it since it established an independent foreign policy during the dangerous days of 1942. Gyngell argues that the fear of being abandoned – originally by Britain, and later by our most powerful ally, the United States – has been an important driver of how Australia acts in the world.

Allan Gyngell was foreign policy adviser to Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating and worked as a diplomat, policy officer and analyst in several government departments.

Featuring Fairfax senior correspondent Daniel Flitton in conversation with the author.

Colin Mackerras is a world authority on Chinese culture and society, and he has taught in China since the 1960s, where he was a witness to the beginning of the Cultural Revolution. He joins Dr Yangbin Chen (Chinese Program, Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University) in this interview.

Australia and China face a new era, but are we ready?

Australia’s prosperity and security are linked to China as never before. But what kind of a country is China becoming? Will its demand for Australian goods and services increase? Can the Communist Party continue to keep the middle class satisfied while cracking down on political freedoms? How will China use its economic and military might, especially if challenged by President Trump?

In partnership with China Matters and La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University Press is pleased to present the launch of China Matters: Getting It Right For Australia by Bates Gill and Linda Jakobson.

India has been described as a country of potential, but hiding behind that hopeful term are a few powerful statistics. By 2022 it is projected to surpass China to become the most populated country in the world, and currently around 50% of India's people are below the age of 24.

Professor Craig Jeffrey (Director, Australia India Institute) speaks to Matt Smith about the challenges presented with youth in India, and whether it's a demographic dividend or a disaster.

In 2005 China was home to 16 of the 20 most polluted cities in the world, but today it is the world’s leading producer of renewable energy sources. It has the largest capacity solar, wind and hydro plants in the world, accounting for one-third of installed wind power, and one-fifth of installed solar. It is now poised to step into a leadership role in global climate politics, and is well placed to be the dominant player in the post-carbon international economy.

Dr. Benjamin Habib is a Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at La Trobe University.

It's no exaggeration that the election of Donald Trump was a shock to the system, and this was no more so than in the Asian region. During his election campaign Trump was abrasive and antagonistic towards many Asian countries, in particular China.

Dr Ashley Townshend (Research Fellow, United States Studies Centre, University of Sydney) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia) about Trump's 'America First' approach and what it means for Asia.

Many countries have a problem when it comes to gender equality, but in Japan it's quite pronounced. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe says he wants to put more women to work to help make up for the country's shrinking population, but there is little evidence of serious progress in what has been dubbed ‘womenomics'. Of particular note, Japan has the lowest percentage of women’s political representation in the industrialised world.

Dr Emma Dalton (Japanese Lecturer in Global and Language Studies in the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT) speaks to Matt Smith about why the glass ceiling is so hard to crack in Japan.

The opening years of the 21st century seemed to herald the start of a new era. On the back of China's remarkable economic revitalisation, India's reforms, as well as the ongoing growth in South Korea, Taiwan, and ASEAN economies, many argued that the new century belonged to Asia. Is that still the case, or has the gloss come off the Asian century?

Andrew Leigh (Shadow Assistant Treasurer and Federal Member for Fenner, Australia) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of Nick Bisley) about whether the concept still applies and what Asia's development will mean for Australia.

In 2014 the UN's commission of inquiry into human rights in North Korea published a report detailing human rights abuses committed by the country's leadership against its own people. They compared the scale of the abuse to the atrocities committed by the Nazis.

Dr Danielle Chubb, (lecturer in International Relations at Deakin University) talks to Matt Smith about the response to the report and human rights issues in North Korea.

In 1964 the Communist Party of China released a collection of Mao’s speeches and statements titled ‘Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-Tung’. Small, easily carried, and bound in bright red colours it became commonly known as the Little Red Book, and went on to become the most important tool of propaganda during the cultural revolution.

Associate Professor James Leibold (Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University) talks to Matt Smith about the power of Mao's book and how to spot a real one.

A sound foreign policy is crucial to the success and safety of any country, and governments are grappling with different ideals and agendas to maintain relationships in the current changing global environment.

Allan Gyngell (Adjunct Professor of Public Policy at the Australian National University, director of the Crawford Australia Leadership Forum) joins Matt Smith to discuss Australia's Foreign Policy and reflect on its interactions with Asia.

State intervention in natural resource management is often inflexible, but projects in the Kangra District of India have found better success by involving the local communities.

Dr Harry Fischer (Associate Lecturer in the Department of Social Inquiry at La Trobe University and a New Generation Network Fellow at the Australian India Institute) speaks about natural resource management in Himachal Pradesh, particularly the water canal 'kuhl' system.

Thailand has reached a period of political change. The recent death of the long-serving monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and the crowning of his son Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn have rocked a country still seeing fallout of a 2014 military coup.

Dr Greg Raymond (Research Fellow at the Strategic & Defence Studies Centre at the Australian National University) talks to Matt Smith about the way forward for Thailand.

China is home to 1.5 billion people, many of them living in industrialised cities, and with that comes a heavy burden of medical problems.

Martin Taylor (Team Leader, Health Systems and Health Security, World Health Organization, Beijing) discusses the good and the bad in China's health.

The study of Australia is well-established in China, and the active engagement across universities helps build cultural, social and economic understanding between the two countries.

Professor David Walker (Chair of Australian Studies at Deakin University) talks to Matt Smith about Chinese understanding of Australia, and the healthy network of Australian studies.

Donald Trump will be the next President of the United States. While America, the world, and the Donald comes to terms with this unexpected result, the question is inevitably asked… what happens next?

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) and Dr Kumuda Simpson (International Relations, La Trobe University) speak to Matt Smith about the international reaction to a Trump presidency.

Media in Australia and much of the western world are facing pressing times with shrinking revenue and a changing landscape, but how much of these trends coming across in the Chinese press?

Lisa Murray (China Correspondent, Australian Financial Review) talks to Matt Smith about the media landscape in China and her experiences as a foreign correspondent.

The cow is a sacred animal in India with nearly 80% of its Hindu population abstaining from eating beef and worshiping the animal for its production of milk. Surprisingly enough, the country has become the world's largest exporter of beef products, exporting more than 2 million tonnes a year and consuming just as much.

Why is India selling the sacred cow? Dr Yamini Narayanan (DECRA Senior Fellow at the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation at Deakin University) talks to Matt Smith about this clash of ideals which have become a topic of controversy, corruption and murder in India.

The 2016 United States election is almost upon us, and much of the rhetoric has focused on countries in Asia. Hilary Clinton has made references to 'standing up to bullies', with Donald Trump going several steps further in his comments about China.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) speaks to Matt Smith about what Clinton or Trump could mean in Asia, and how regional security and economic stability hangs in the balance.

China and Australia have a long relationship anchored by strong trade bonds, yet this relationship isn’t without tension. The two countries often find themselves on different sides of the table when it comes to broader bilateral ties, and issues such as disagreements over foreign investment and the position and interests of allied countries threaten to prevent any meaningful co-operation or interaction.

Professor Hou Minyue (Deputy Director, of the Australian Studies Centre, at East China Normal University in Shanghai) speaks to Matt Smith about the Australia-China relationship.

China and Australia have a relationship anchored by strong trade bonds. China is Australia’s largest trading partner, while Australia is a leading source of raw materials for Chinese industry. Recent negotiations have led to the signing of a free trade agreement, and there is strong prime-ministerial level dialogue between the two countries.

Yet this relationship isn’t without tension. China and Australia often find themselves on different sides of the table when it comes to broader bilateral ties, and issues such as disagreements over foreign investment and the position and interests of allied countries threaten to prevent any meaningful co-operation or interaction.

This panel will discuss the key challenges and opportunities confronting the bilateral relationship of China and Australia.

Dr Geoff Raby (Chairman & CEO Geoff Raby & Associates, Former Australian Ambassador to China (2007 - 2011))
Lisa Murray (China Correspondent for the Australian Financial Review)
Professor Hou Minyue (Head of the Department of English at East China Normal University (ECNU))

Forum Convenors:

Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe University)
Professor Chen Hong (East China Normal University)

This event is the inaugural Australia-China Forum in Shanghai co-hosted by La Trobe University and East China Normal University.

It’s been more than two years since Joko Widodo was elected Indonesian President. While his election occurred on a wave of high hopes and high expectations, little was known at the time about how the new President would approach Indonesia’s international affairs.

Dr Evi Fitriani (Head of the International Relations Department at Universitas Indonesia)talks to Dr Rebecca Strating (Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University) about Indonesia’s approach to foreign policy under the Widoko administration.

India is a country with a challenging future. It’s the home of 1.3 billion people and it will be the world’s most populated country within the next decade. It has high levels of unemployment, and widespread problems with inequality, pollution and sanitation. But with a youthful population and an increasingly educated workforce it’s a challenge it could meet.

In this public forum three experts give their views on different aspects of India's development.

Professor Ian Hall (Government and International Relations, Griffith University)
Dr Yamini Narayanan (Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University)
Dr Ian Woolford (Hindi Studies, La Trobe University)

Chair: Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University)

Part of the Asia: The Next Chapter public forum series from La Trobe Asia in partnership with the Australia India Institute (AII).

India has more than a billion mobile phones in use, with more people having access to a mobile phone than a toilet with plumbing.

What impact has the phone had on India's society, politics and economy? Emeritus Professor Robin Jeffrey (Politics, La Trobe University)speaks to Matt Smith about the implications of a connected India.

On 30th June, Rodrigo Duterte was sworn in as the Philippines 16th President. Observers outside the country were stunned by his sudden rise to power, in both his tone and at times violent rhetoric he seemed, to many, to be South East Asian version of Donald Trump.

Dr Nicole Curato (ARC Early Career Research Fellow at the Institute for Governance and Policy Advice in the University of Canberra) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about the kind of leader Duterte will be, and the changes he wants to bring to South East Asia's second largest population.

Democrats and Republicans have officially elected their Presidential nominees, and the contest between Trump and Clinton has begun in earnest.

In this lecture Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) and Dr Kumuda Simpson-Gray (International Relations, La Trobe University) discuss the foreign policies of Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, and the challenges both candidates will face as the race for the White House heats up.

Chaired by Dr Benjamin Habib (International Relations, La Trobe University).

An election in the upper house of Japan has delivered a supermajority to Shinzo Abe, with two thirds of it in control of his Liberal Democratic Party and its allies. The win is a substantial vote of confidence for the Prime Minister and his policies, and with a similar majority in the lower house he now has the legislative firepower to make substantial changes, including rewriting Japan’s pacifist constitution.

Dr David Envall (International Relations, Australian National University) talks to Matt Smith about the election results and what Abe could do with this power.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a political and economic organisation formed 49 years ago by like-minded southeast Asian countries. Much like the EU it aims to streamline co-operation such as trade and social progress between its member states, and increase bargaining power with the rest of the world.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) talks with Matt Smith about this regional entity, and whether the lofty aims of ASEAN are about to crack under outside pressures.

The Philippines has a new president: Rodrigo Duterte, a brash, outspoken politician who won by a huge margin. Many have compared the combative politician to U.S. Presidential candidate Donald Trump for his populism and antagonistic approach to a wide range of issues.

Within the quotable, expletive laden interviews he gives, Duterte shows a clear determination to shake up the system. Whether it’s encouraging violence and vigilantism against drug dealers, cutting red-tape for businesses or advocating for constitutional reform, he’s made it clear he means to change the Philippines.

Behind the outrageous claims and tough talk what is likely to happen? And what could his words and actions mean for Asian neighbours of the Philippines?

In this public forum three experts give their assessment of how Duterte could shape the Filipino future.

Dr Nicole Curato, Institute for Governance and Policy Analysis, University of Canberra
Professor Nick Bisley, La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University
Lemuel Lopez, Melbourne Law School, University of Melbourne

Chair: Dr Trevor Hogan, Director, Philippines Australia Studies Centre, La Trobe University

Part of the Asia: The Next Chapter public forum series from La Trobe Asia in partnership with the Philippines Australia Studies Centre

By 2030 Indonesia’s population will be the world's fourth largest, with 295 million people, and by some estimates it will be the world’s fourth largest economy by 2040. The skyscrapers and glitzy shopping malls of Jakarta belie that city’s huge disparities, where a fifth of its people still live without power.

In 2014 Joko Widodo won the Indonesian election on the popular vote, giving hope of fair and impartial leadership to an emerging democracy still beset with endemic corruption. He has since struggled to live up to these expectations, and his approval rating has predictably suffered.

So where does Indonesia’s future lie? What role will a larger, wealthier Indonesia play in Southeast Asia and the world? How will Australia relate to a neighbour it struggles to get along with, and can the country’s political system match the aspirations of the people?

This public forum brings three experts together to reflect on the future of Australia’s northern neighbour:

Dr Dirk Tomsa, Senior Lecturer, La Trobe University
Dr Dave McRae, Senior Research Fellow, Asia Institute, University of Melbourne
Dr Bec Strating, Lecturer, La Trobe University

Chair: Professor Nick Bisley, Executive Director, La Trobe Asia

Part of the Asia: The Next Chapter public forum series from La Trobe Asia.

After hundreds of years of occupation and a bloody struggle for independence, Timor-Leste formed its democratic government in 2002, running an election under the watchful eye of the UN. It’s since had three highly competitive elections since 2002 that have been universally recognised as free and fair.

Dr Rebecca Strating (Politics, La Trobe University) talks to Matt Smith about the state of democracy in Timor-Leste - is it failing as an institution, and is that a bad thing for the country?

The Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydro-electric power station, is one of the greatest infrastructure projects of modern times. Building it displaced many hundreds of thousands of people, and transformed the environment in a key part of China.

Dr Brooke Wilmsen (Social Enquiry, La Trobe University) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about the impact of the dam on the lives of people in the region, what it tells us about China's modernisation, and the kind of social challenges faced by a rapidly industrialising society.

The Uyghurs are a Turkic-speaking Muslim minority that predominantly inhabit the far western region of China known as Xinjiang.

Dr David Brophy (History, University of Sydney) talks to Assoc. Professor James Leibold (Politics, La Trobe University) the emergence of the Uyghur nation and reform and revolution on the Russian frontier.

David Brophy's book, Uyghur Nation (2016) published by Harvard University Press: www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.php?isbn=9780674660373

Follow David Brophy on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Dave_Brophy

Follow James Leibold on Twitter: www.twitter.com/jleibold

Theme music: Asian Wonders by Butterfly Tea

Indonesia has had ongoing problems with corruption since it established democracy in 1998, and while some recent high profile cases have been exposed, it's a problem at every level of government.

Dr Dirk Tomsa (Politics, La Trobe University) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about Indonesia's ongoing struggle to combat corruption, whether it be exposed through efforts of the KPK, or political machinations.

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Observers worldwide are watching with trepidation as Donald Trump gains ground in the United States election. Perhaps none more carefully than China, who Trump directs many aggressive remarks towards, expressing a desire for stronger trade negotiations.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) speaks to Matt Smith about Trump's attitude towards China, the actions he could take, and how his victory could work in China's favour.

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

During World War II (and the wider Pacific War) women from many Asian countries were kept in 'comfort stations' for the use of Japanese soldiers.

While Japan has now given ¥1 billion in compensation there is little acknowledgement of the issue, and it has caused tension in particular with neighbouring South Korea.

Dr Nicola Henry (Social Inquiry, La Trobe University) speaks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) discuss the issue of comfort women, whether the recognition offered is sufficient, and the extent of the political issues.

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Suicide is a significant public health problem. With a highly populated and urbanised environment, Hong Kong in particular has taken a proactive approach to suicide prevention, such as restricting means, improving the data record, and media engagement.

Professor Paul Yip (Director for the Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention) discusses suicide prevention practices in Hong Kong, as well as cultural differences in attitudes between the east and the west.

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

The west has an uneasiness when it comes to dealing with China. Although it is their biggest trading partner, many governments are concerned about a more confident, ambitious and militarily capable China. Its activities in the South China Sea, its ambitions to develop new links to Europe across the Asian continent, and the recent crackdown on dissent and opponents appear to confirm those most worried about just what China is trying to do in the world.

But how does China perceive what it is doing? What ideas shape how China acts on the global stage and what can we expect from China in the coming years? This public forum brings three of China's most influential foreign policy experts together to reflect on these important questions.

Speakers:

Professor Wang Jisi (President, Institute of International and Strategic Studies, Peking University)

Professor Yan Xuetong (Dean, Institute of Modern International Relations, Tsinghua University)

Professor Jia Qingguo (Dean, School of International Studies, Peking University)

Chair: Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia)

Introduction: Professor Gary Smith (Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement))

Closing: Dr Chengxin Pan (International Relations, Deakin University)

Presented by La Trobe Asia, Deakin University, and the Foundation for Australian Studies in China.

India is a country that can overload the senses. One of the most striking features a visitor can notice is the country's seemingly endemic problem with rubbish and pollution.

Professor Robin Jeffrey (Emeritus, La Trobe University) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about the extent of India's problem with waste, the cultural attitude towards sanitation, and Modi's plan to clean up India.

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

The South China Sea is a critical commercial gateway for a significant portion of the world’s merchant shipping, and much of the territory is disputed by neighbouring countries.

China's recent land reclamation projects in disputed areas leave many to fear it could escalate into full-scale conflict. Dr Euan Graham (Director, International Security. Lowy Institute for International Policy) joins Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) to discuss the dispute and explain what's at stake.

Follow Ian Woolford on Twitter: www.twitter.com/graham_euan

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

China sees itself as a victim of imperialism and colonialism. The modern Chinese nationalism, including the one adopted and promoted by the Chinese Communist Party, is defined through this.

Assoc. Professor Dibyesh Anand (Centre for the Study of Democracy at the University of Westminster in London) interrogates this narrative and argues that there is a fundamental disjuncture at the heart of the modern nation-state project in China. Focusing on Tibet, he argues for conceptualising and understanding China as a colonising power.

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

The recent arrest of Jawaharlal Nehru University student leader Kanhaiya Kumar on the charges of sedition have shaken India, the world's biggest democracy.

Dr Ian Woolford (Hindi Program, La Trobe University) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about the Modi government reaction and what this crisis means for freedom of speech in India.

Follow Ian Woolford on Twitter: www.twitter.com/iawoolford

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Australia's Turnbull government has released a new defence white paper containing the affirmation of the purchase of 12 new submarines. There have been previous indications that these would come from Japan, but much has changed in both domestic and international politics in this time.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) tells Matt Smith why Japan will be the provider of Australia's submarines and the ripples it could make in international diplomacy.

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Follow Matt Smith on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nightlightguy

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Chinatown was established in Melbourne in 1854, 20 years after the city started. It is located in Little Bourke St, and has a long history of supporting the local Chinese community.

Dr Sophie Couchman (Curator at the Chinese Museum (Melbourne), Honorary Research Fellow, History, La Trobe University) talks about history, culture, and influences of Melbourne's Chinatown.

Follow Sophie Couchman on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sophiecouchman

Follow Matt Smith on Twitter: https://twitter.com/nightlightguy

Follow Chinese Museum, Melbourne on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chinese_Museum

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Art therapy is a theraputic mental health inititiative from the western world, but it has now been incorporated into mental health initiatives in the Pacific Island nation of Samoa.

Dr Patricia Fenner (Public Health, La Trobe University) talks about the program success and the strong influence Samoan community and culture has played in it.

Follow Jasmine-Kim Westendorf on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Jasminekimw

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

It's been 15 years since the United Nations Security Council resolution on women, peace and security. Despite all the efforts there is still a lot of disappointment that women are still so excluded from peace processes.

Dr Meenakshi Gopinath (Founder and Honorary Director of WISCOMP) talks to Dr Jasmine-Kim Westendorf (International Relations, La Trobe University) about how and why women should be included and encouraged in conflict resolution.

Follow Jasmine-Kim Westendorf on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Jasminekimw

Copyright 2016 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

At the end of World War II, Japan adopted Article 9 into their constitution, aspiring to international peace and not having a standing army. Pacifism became part of the Japanese identity, but this could change with recent legislation.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) and Matt Smith discuss the recent constitution changes and what it could mean for Japanese society.

Follow Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Follow Matt Smith on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nightlightguy

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

America has an interesting relationship with many Asian countries - on the surface there is polite co-operation and trade, but always with a wary attitude.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) and Dr Kumuda Simpson (International Relations, La Trobe University) speaks to Matt Smith about United States and their interaction with Asian states.

Recorded in front of a live audience on 11th November, 2015.

Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Kumuda Simpson on Twitter: www.twitter.com/kumudasimpson

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Now an independent democracy, Timor-Leste is struggling to renegotiate treaties and agreements with neighbouring countries, particularly water territories with Australia which could give them better access to dwindling oil fields.

Dr Bec Strating (Department of Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) on Timor-Leste's motives and challenges in the Timor Gap.

Bec Strating on Twitter: www.twitter.com/becstrating

Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Malcolm Turnbull has been the prime minister of Australia for two months, and while he hasn't made significant political moves regarding Asia, we can predict what kind of leadership he might bring.

John Garnaut (Fairfax's Asia Editor) speaks to Professor Nick Bisley (executive director, La Trobe Asia) about the change in political tone Turnbull will bring towards Asia.

Recorded in front of a live audience on 11th November, 2015.

John Garnaut on Twitter: www.twitter.com/jgarnaut

Nick Bisley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/nickbisley

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

2014 was a watershed year in Australia-India relations. Not only had Modi and Abbott struck up a great rapport, the two countries' economic, strategic and political stars appeared finally to have aligned.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) looks at Australia and India's relationship. Have all the roadblocks been cleared, and do their interests align in quite the way the optimists think?

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

China has announced a relaxing of the family planning policy, with a change of the existing law to a two-child policy beginning March 2016.

Dr James Leibold (Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University) discusses how the one-child policy has impacted China, if it was effective, and whether the change will come in time.

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

When we talk about the Asia what is the adjective referring to? Is it culture, geography, or somewhere in between?

Assoc. Professor Andrew Phillips (Reader in International Relations and Strategy, University of Queensland) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about the broad implications of that single word.

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

China's economy is in a state of transition, and its success and failure has an impact on a global level.

Dr Geoff Raby (Australia's Ambassador to China from 2007-2011, director of his Beijing-based business advisory company – Geoff Raby and Associates Ltd) speaks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about how the Chinese economy is transitioning and the changes it needs to make.

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Australia has a relationship of mutual respect on the surface, but there are also deep concerns about the broader consequences of China's return as a great power.

Linda Jakobson, John Lee, Bob Carr and Geoff Raby discuss the complex relationship, the recent fall of the Chinese economy and its repercussions for Australia, and the implications of the highly controversial Free Trade Agreement.

Introduced by Professor Nick Bisley, Executive Director of La Trobe University.

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

The relationship between Australia and India will face challenges in the future, the extent to which these continue and the ongoing need to work hard, on both sides, to improve links not just between Canberra and Delhi but between our societies more broadly.

John McCarthy AO FAIIA (Former Australian ambassador and High Commissioner to India (2004-2009), Professor Ian Hall (Griffith Business School, Griffith University) and Dr Meg Gurry (Honorary Research Associate of La Trobe Asia at La Trobe University) discuss the need for greater people-to-people links and also the limits to just what it is that government can do to improve the situation.

Introduced by Professor Nick Bisley, Executive Director of La Trobe University.

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

North Korea has an image of dire poverty and famine, but thanks to trade with Russia and China the economy is a dynamic space and fast developing.

Dr Benjamin Habib (Politics and International Relations, La Trobe University) speaks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe University) about the impact of North Korea's development and the emergence of the 'donju', the middle class.

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

China marked the 70th anniversary of Japan's defeat in World War II with a massive military parade which was as much a celebration as it was a show of force to the rest of the world.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) and Dr James Leibold (Senior lecturer, Department of Politics and Philosophy, La Trobe University) examine the parade and the message that Xi Jinping was trying to send, both domestically and internationally.

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Dr Jasmine-Kim Westendorf (International Relations, La Trobe University) examines the unconventional approach taken in the peace process in Nepal and how it affected the establishment and consolidation of peace.

Her book "Negotiating Insecurity: Why Peace Processes Fail in Civil Wars" has just been released by Lynne Rienner Publishers.

This was a guest lecture delivered to the Melbourne South Asian Study Group.

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The Indian Ocean is often thought of with a post World War II context, but it's had a long history prior to this when empires in the area struggled for dominance.

Assoc. Professor Andrew Phillips (Reader in International Relations and Strategy, University of Queensland) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) about the early growth of empire and the beginning of European influence.

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Jo Hong-ju (Republic of Korea's Consul-General to Victoria) presents a South Korean perspective of inter-korean politics, and the fundemental divide between north and south.

A “Contemporary Politics in Northeast Asia” lecture from the La Trobe University Department of Politics and Philosophy and La Trobe Asia.

Introduced by Dr Benjamin Habib, (Lecturer in international relations, La Trobe University).

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North Korea is vulnerable to climate change, and is a country vulnerable to food insecurity. It has an active relationship with the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), brought on largely by a strong incentives program.

Dr Benjamin Habib (International Relations, La Trobe University) speaks to Matt Smith North Korea’s climate change efforts and compliance with the UNFCCC, and explains their motives.

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With the 70th anniversary of World War II fast approaching in the Asian region, there will be a vastly different take on how the event is celebrated, particularly the Chinese independence from Japan.

Professor Nick Bisley (Director of La Trobe Asia) speaks to Matt Smith about what to expect from both China and Japan, and how the rest of the world will view the events.

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East Timor is a country struggling with internal conflict, and a young democracy still struggling to assert itself after years of political turmoil.

Dr Jasmine-Kim Westendorf (Lecturer in International Relations, La Trobe University) speaks to Professor Nick Bisley (Director of La Trobe Asia) about the dominant forces at work in East Timor and the news the rest of the world never hears.

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Australia has made refugee and asylum seeker issues a cornerstone of their political debate and excessive lengths have been taken to prevent asylum seekers from reaching Australia by boat.

Julian Burnside (Barrister and human rights advocate) speaks to host Matt Smith about Australia's perceived asylum seeker problem and how there might be a better solution.

Copyright 2015 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

The population of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands have emigrated far, from Indonesia to Western Australia, but have maintained a strong community and bartered goods through the use of Facebook.

In this episode of Asia Rising, Dr Nicholas Herriman (Anthropology, La Trobe University) speaks to host Matt Smith about the Cocos (Keeling) Island community and gift-giving.

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A number of high profile incidents have highlighted the contested territory of the South China Seas, most provocatively China's significant land reclamation and construction activties.

In this episode of Asia Rising, Linda Jakobson (Founding Director of China Matters) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) about China's controversial activities in the east and south china seas.

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After the first year of government Narendra Modi has been presented with a number of challenges, both from within his own party and on a national and international stage.

In this episode of Asia Rising, Dr Ian Hall (School of Government and International Relations, Griffith University) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) about Modi's first year as Prime Minister of India.

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After years of civil unrest, will Nepal's struggling democracy survive the recent earthquake?

In this episode of Asia Rising, Dr Jasmine-Kim Westendorf (International Relations, La Trobe University) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) about Nepal's long road to democracy and future challenges.

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When Joko Widido won the 2014 Indonesian election with a significant popular mandate there was high expectations of the change he would bring to the office.

In this episode of Asia Rising, Dr David McCrae Asia Institute, University of Melbourne) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) about the effectiveness and difficulties facing Widodo's government.

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The imminent execution of two Australians by Indonesia due to drug related offenses has put a strain on relationships between the two countries, and presents challenges for the leadership of both Joko Widodo and Tony Abbott.

In this episode of Asia Rising, Dr David McCrae Asia Institute, University of Melbourne) talks to Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) about the diplomatic tensions of capital punishment.

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Regional authorities outlawed Islamic veils from all public spaces in the regional capital of China’s Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region.

Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) speaks to Dr James Leibold (Senior Lecturer, Chinese Politics and Asian Studies, La Trobe University) about the provocation and likelihood of this ban succeeding.

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How did Japan’s recent election play out for Shinzo Abe, and what can Japan expect from his next term? Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia) and Assistant Professor Christopher Hobson (School of Political Science and Economics, Waseda University) discuss Japanese politics and the Fukushima disaster.

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Recent incidents involving surrogacy in Asian countries have shed light on a growing trend. Prospective parents are traveling to Asian countries with lower costs and less stringent laws, to engage the services of surrogate parents.

Discussing this issue is a panel of experts:

Professor Jenni Millbank, University of Technology, Sydney

Associate Professor Andrea Whittaker, ARC Future Fellow in Anthropology in the School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts, Monash University

Associate Professor Kerry Petersen, La Trobe Law School

Dr Rhonda Powell, a human rights lawyer with particular interest in rights in pregnancy and birthing rights; Lecturer at University of Canterbury

Claire Achmad: PhD candidate, Faculty of Law, University of Leiden, The Netherlands

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

A look at the big events in Asia in the year 2014 - the elections of Modi in India and Jokowai in Indonesia, to the military coup of Thailand, the popular protests in Hong Kong, the tension in the East China Sea and the dominance of the Chinese economy.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

With Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi proving to be a big hit in Australia during the G20, Professor Nick Bisley (Excutive Director, La Trobe Asia) and Dr Ian Hall (Department of International Relations, ANU) take a look at his relationship with Australia and the impact he's making on the world stage.

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Tensions between China and Japan have ratcheted up in recent years, to the point where their territorial dispute over islands in the East China Sea is seen as among the region’s most dangerous flashpoints.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director, La Trobe Asia) explains that insufficient attention has been given to the potential ramifications for Australia of conflict in the East China Sea.

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Will China be able to sustain the economic growth rates of the past decade? Dr Geoff Raby (former Australian Ambassador to China) on the impact of the wide ranging reform program launched by Xi Jinping on China's economy and society, and the implications for Australia.

Introduced by Professor Nick Bisley as a public lecture for La Trobe Asia.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Hong Kong is currently experiencing protests caused by public disagreements over changes to how the Chief Executive of Hong Kong will be selected.

In this episode of Asia Rising, Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) speaks to Dr James Leibold (Senior Lecturer, Chinese Politics and Asian Studies, La Trobe University) look at the development of the popular protests in Hong Kong and how they might play out.

During his first year of office, Prime Minister Tony Abbott has conducted a surprisingly energetic and focused foreign policy. He's visited a number of countries in the Asian region and furthered Australia's interests by signing fair trade agreements with Japan and South Korea, as well as making progress in relationships with both China and India.

In this episode of Asia Rising, Professor Nick Bisley (La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) speaks to host Matt Smith about Abbott's interactions with Asia in his first year of office.

On 22 July Joko Widodo was formally announced as the winner of Indonesia’s closely fought presidential election. Although Indonesia has enjoyed democratic rule since 1998, this is the first time one elected leader has been replaced by another. A fine result in a difficult year for democracy in Asia. The new president is clearly well liked, but he has considerable challenges to tackle.

Dr Dirk Tomsa Dr Dirk Tomsa (Politics and International Relations at La Trobe University) and Dr David McRae, (Asia Institute, University of Melbourne) present this lecture on how and why Jokowi won, what kind of president he is likely to become, what his policy priorities are likely to be and what kind of international role Indonesia is likely to play under a president who has no experience in foreign policy.

Introduced by Professor Nick Bisley as a seminar for La Trobe Asia.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Japan has taken a more energised approach on the global stage in recent years, particularly under the leadership of the current Prime Minister, Shinzō Abe.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) and Dr David Envall (Department of International Relations, Australian National University) look at Japan's emerging place in Asia, and the relationship it has with foreign powers.

A La Trobe Asia podcast.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

On the 22nd May 2014 the Royal Thai Armed forces led by General Prayuth Chan-ocha launched a coup against the democratically elected government government, dissolved the senate and stabled a Junta to govern the nation.

Since that time there's been a clampdown on freedom of speech and expression, there's a curfew in place, and while a return to democracy is promised there's uncertainty as to when this will happen.

Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia, La Trobe University) discusses the Thai political system, and the challenges of restoring democracy.

A La Trobe Asia podcast.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Alongside China and India, Brazil is an emerged economic giant. It is also custodian of a large part of the environmentally sensitive Amazon Basin. Home to an extraordinary hybrid culture that unites Indigenous, European and African influences, Brazil is world-renowned for its dynamic music, dance and food.

Soon, Brazil will play host to the World Cup and then Rio will be home to the Olympics in 2016. These two sporting events are historically significant but they also highlight the social issues that plague Brazil, including poverty, crime and inadequate social services.

Dr Ralph Newmark (Director, Institute of Latin American Studies, La Trobe University) uses Brazilian music to illustrate his award‑winning teaching and research methodology of 'aural history'.

Introduced by Professor Tim Murray as a public lecture for the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at La Trobe University.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

North Korea is one of the region's most enigmatic states. It is one of the poorest states in Asia, yet is well on its way to developing a nuclear weapon. It has long sought isolation from the outside world, yet it is opening up more special economic zones. And its cult of personality around the Kim family dynasty seems at times almost a self-parody.

The transition of power to the third generation of the Kim family was completed with the public purging of Jang Son-thaek in December 2013. Six months on, with signs that North Korea is likely to conduct a further nuclear tests in the coming month it is timely to take stock of the current state and likely future trajectory of North Korea. Dr Benjamin Habib (Politics and International Relations, La Trobe University) considers the aims, ambitions and possible futures of one of Asia's least well understood societies. Is North Korea finally going to acquire nuclear weapons? And how destabilizing would this be? Is economic reform a realistic prospect? Is any kind of reconciliation with South Korea possible?

A La Trobe Asia podcast.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Narendra Modi won a landslide victory with the BJP in the 2014 Indian election. In this La Trobe Asia podcast, Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia) and Dr Ian Woolford (Head of Hindi and South Asian Studies, La Trobe University) present a wrap-up of Indian politics focussing on:

The outcome of the election and the position of the previously ruling Congress Party
The kind of government and direction that India can expect under Modi
The role of social media in the election
What international relationships the global community can expect from India

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

In contemporary South Asia, conflict is an all too frequent feature of life. As in other parts of Asia, increasingly these are intra-state conflicts which present distinctive challenges for policy-makers and citizenry.

Perhaps the greatest of these is how to transform a situation of protracted conflict into a lasting and sustainable peace. There have been many efforts to negotiate settlements but these often fail either to bring about a cessation of violence or to create the foundations of a stable peace. Why do these negotiated settlements regularly fail? Is the problem in their design or their implementation? Or are participants negotiating in bad faith? What can we learn from experiences in South Asia about how to make better peace accords?

To examine these questions join Australia India Institute Emerging Leaders' Fellow, Nirupama Subramanian in conversation with La Trobe University's Dr Jasmine Westendorf. Introduced by Professor Nick Bisley as a seminar for La Trobe Asia.

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Professor Nick Bisley (Executive Director of La Trobe Asia) and Dr Benjamin Habib (Politics and International Relations, La Trobe University) present an update on North Korea, covering three recent events:

The usefulness and relevance of the United Nations report of the commission of inquiry on human rights in North Korea, authored by Michael Kirby.
The UNSC Panel of Experts report on North Korean sanction-busting regime.
North Korea’s recent weapon developments and missile testing.

A La Trobe Asia podcast.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

In 2014 Asia's two biggest democracies, India and Indonesia, go to the polls to elect new governments.

Both countries look destined for major political change, with potentially far-reaching consequences for domestic and international politics. In India, the leader of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, has emerged as a front runner in the polls, but the nature of the coalition he would need to form to take power is impossible to predict. In Indonesia, Jakarta governor Joko Widodo is the most popular politician, but his party is yet to endorse him as a presidential candidate and it is possible that the controversial former special forces general Prabowo Subianto could become president.

Speakers are Dr Dirk Tomsa (Politics and International Relations at La Trobe University) and Dr Ian Woolford (coordinator of La Trobe University’s Hindi language program). Introduced by Professor Nick Bisley as a seminar for La Trobe Asia.

Copyright 2014 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Erdem Koç (Journalism, La Trobe University) on how social media triggered protests in Turkey the mainstream ignored.

In May, what started as a 50-person protest against the re-development of one of Istanbul’s smallest parks turned into a nation-wide resistance against police brutality and what protestors claimed is an oppresive regime.

As Turkey’s mainstream media refused to show the protests, the resistance gained momentum, and social media became the only way to communicate.

Copyright 2013 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Dr Luca Anceschi (Politics and International Relations, La Trobe University) on the 2013 Egyptian coup d'état. So soon after the 2011 revolution, was it really in the best interest of the people?

Copyright 2013 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Dr Luca Anceschi (Politics and International Relations, La Trobe University) on the 2013 protests in Turkey: how the protest about a park redevelopment can grow to be about an oppressive regime and police brutality.

Copyright 2013 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Dr Ben Habib (lecturer in Social Sciences, La Trobe University) discusses recent political developments in North Korea, which has recently placed their “strategic rocket units and long-range artillery units” on their highest alert status, and made threats on striking on targets in South Korea.

Copyright 2013 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Dr Luca Anceschi (Politics, La Trobe University) on the political turmoil in the Middle East.

Copyright 2011 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Jeff Hansen (Australian Director of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society) on the challenges of protecting the biodiversity of the oceans.

Copyright 2011 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Professor Nick Bisley (International Relations, La Trobe University), Dr Luca Anceschi (International Relations, La Trobe University), and Dr Christopher Friese (American Politics, La Trobe University) on 2011 revolutions in the Middle East, and the time of change.

Copyright 2011 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Professor Robert Manne (Politics, La Trobe University) discusses Julian Assange: his early experiences, what shaped him, the creation of wikileaks, and how politics could now be permanently changed.

Copyright 2011 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Please contact for permissions.

Professor Wolfgang Merkel (Director, Berlin Science Centre) on the downfall of social democracy and its future.

Copyright 2011 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Contact for permissions.

Ben Habib (Politics, La Trobe University) on the political climate in North Korea, and their nuclear weapon capabilities.

Copyright 2010 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Contact for permissions.

The Minister for Oil and Minerals in the Somalian state of Puntland, and a former La Trobe student, Issa Farah talks about the challenges of rebuilding Somalia.

Copyright 2009 La Trobe University, all rights reserved. Contact for permissions.

The Right Honourable Mike Moore is the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, former leader of the World Trade Organisation, and current Adjunct Professor of La Trobe University.

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Dr David Dorward discusses how Robert Mugabe's despotic rule is plunging Zimbabwe deeper into crisis

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