2025

Asia and International Relations

Name: Asia and International Relations
Code: ECN13116L
6 ECTS
Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours
Scientific Area: Legal-Political Theory and International Relations

Teaching languages: Portuguese
Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese, English
Regime de Frequência: Presencial

Sustainable Development Goals

Learning Goals

This program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the research field that delves into the transformation of China's image in international relations and its emergence as an economic powerhouse in the evolving Asian system. The program aims to help students acquire five key competencies:
1) Profound knowledge and skills in the field of China and regional Asian studies;
2) Methodological expertise, practical applications, and analytical approaches to real-world situations;
3) Development of critical thinking skills;
4) Understanding of China's international relations;
5) Cultivation of interests in political systems, ideologies, international relations, and geostrategy.

Contents

1. International relations in Asia

2. The Asian system

3. The foreign policy of the major world powers in the Asian region

4. The regional powers

4.1 The People's Republic of China

4.2 India

4.3 Japan

5. The main players in the regional subsystem

5.1 ASEAN

5.2 Australia

5.3 Central Asia

5.4 The Korean Peninsula

6. Transregional links:

6.1 The BRICS

6.2 Regional Security

Teaching Methods

- Theoretical Classes: Delve into key concepts and theories regarding China and its international relations.
- Case Studies: Explore real-life situations showcasing China's challenges and international relations contexts.
- Debates and Discussions: Foster critical analysis through lively dialogue and diverse viewpoints.
- Group Works: Collaborate with peers to research specific topics and gain valuable insights.
- Expert Visits: Benefit from lectures and discussions led by scholars and industry professionals on current topics.

Assessment

Debate Participation: This will involve evaluating students' ability to present arguments and critically analyze topics.
Writing Assignments: These will require in-depth research on topics related to China's international relations.
Oral Presentations: Students will need to provide evidence to demonstrate their understanding and ability to argue on the topics studied.
Group Projects: These will encourage collaboration and the practical application of knowledge.
This integrated approach will help students comprehend the complexity of international relations, particularly in the context of China's emergence as a global power. It will also help them develop the skills needed to critically and insightfully analyze contemporary global dynamics.