By investigating the ODA approaches of both Japan and the Republic of Korea considering the human rights crisis in Myanmar, the East Asian Development Model seems to hold. Both countries prioritize...Show moreBy investigating the ODA approaches of both Japan and the Republic of Korea considering the human rights crisis in Myanmar, the East Asian Development Model seems to hold. Both countries prioritize economic development over human rights issues, although they differ in their motivations. This theory-testing case analysis dives into a descriptive account of the actions of Japan and the ROK considering the Rohingya Crisis. While Japan struggles to deal with its imperial past and continues to argue for a kakehashi approach, it is found how human rights have taken second place behind economic development projects. Similarly, the ROK strives for recognition by trying to establish itself as a leader, yet simultaneously fails to lead the way when it comes to standing for the OECD/DAC norms. The descriptive account of both countries shows how human rights issues are snowed under by the importance given to economic development and a favorable relationship with the government of Myanmar.Show less
This thesis examines the role of Keidanren, Japan’s largest business federation, in the formation of regional Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) in the Asia-Pacific region. In doing so, this thesis...Show moreThis thesis examines the role of Keidanren, Japan’s largest business federation, in the formation of regional Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) in the Asia-Pacific region. In doing so, this thesis specifically looks at the progress of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a recently concluded FTA. It determines whether and at which moments Keidanren influenced the Japanese government in making progress on the RCEP between 2013 and 2020. Following Keidanren’s resumption of making political donations in 2014, this research has found that on multiple occasions, the federation was able to influence the Japanese government during the RCEP negotiations. Therefore, Keidanren has regained its position as a powerful and influential business federation.Show less
The objective of the paper is to find an explanation for the seemingly contradictory behavior of China vis-a-vis the IMF an World Bank. How can we interpret that we see at the same time ...Show moreThe objective of the paper is to find an explanation for the seemingly contradictory behavior of China vis-a-vis the IMF an World Bank. How can we interpret that we see at the same time 'socializing' and 'challenging' actions? The paper examines first to what extent socialization theory can help to explain China's increasing role in the governance of the IFIs. Next is an analysis from different perspectives if there is evidence that China is 'challenging' the IFIs. The final section will illustrate that China is taking an alternative route to exerting its influence on the IFIs, and that there are other theses about engagement and interaction that current International Relations Theory is not capable of explaining. This analysis of the nature of China's influence on the governance of the international financial institutions aims to give us an insight into what kind of member of the international community China aspires to be.Show less
This thesis argues that there is a hegemonic and inflexible discourse on Tibetan identity, though there are examples of dissent. This identity discourse constructs a narrative on ‘Tibet’ which...Show moreThis thesis argues that there is a hegemonic and inflexible discourse on Tibetan identity, though there are examples of dissent. This identity discourse constructs a narrative on ‘Tibet’ which Tibetans claim. In turn, by claiming ‘Tibet’, Tibetans are claiming their own identity. ‘Tibet’ is represented by the government in exile. This constitutive relationship between ‘Tibet’ and ‘Tibetanness’ results in a narrativising of history and an Othering of Shugden practitioners and Chinese, in order to define a coherent national identity.Show less
