Publications
Liberal Features of the Liberal International Order: Tools for the Understanding and Typology of Liberal Elements
AbstractInternational order is a central issue in international relations, both as an academic discipline and in reality, and an accurate understanding of its concept and real meaning is extremely important. The paper aims to deepen our understanding of the post–World War II international order, also called the “Liberal International Order" (LIO), which is exceedingly complex to understand in its entirety, by focusing on its liberal elements and characteristics. As the LIO is intersubjective, the author does not interpret it from the idea of liberalism but rather inquires as to the elements and characteristics that have been considered “liberal” in existing discussions. The paper develops our understanding of the LIO by categorizing it according to theoretical liberal elements and characteristics of political, economic, social, and international relations.
Fear of Influence Operations: Role and Challenges for Researchers
AbstractThis briefing discusses how Chinese foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) activities are perceived locally by potential target audiences in Okinawa. Such covert influence operations are employed to sway public opinion and affect policy in democratic countries. Enabled by the global reach of social media and digital platforms, these efforts threaten democratic discourse and stability. However, the research discussed here found that the actual impact locally tends to be exaggerated in research and public opinion. To improve our understanding of, and ability to handle FIMI activities it is suggested that research needs to consider four issues. These are 1) the local context the FIMI enters, 2) the level(s) the researcher(s) work on, 3) the origins of narratives used, and 4) the target groups involved. By including these dimensions when examining the impact of influence activities, we can hopefully improve how we handle influence activities in democracies.
Support Myanmar: It’s Time to Act [in Japanese]
Will You All Be Arrested with Me?
Abstract**This paper was written based on an interview conducted on April 2, 2024.
Towards the Peace the Myanmar People Yearn For
Abstract**This paper was written based on an interview conducted on March 29, 2024.
Hong Kong through an Artist’s Eyes: Music That Cannot Be Taken Away
Abstract*This paper was written based on an interview conducted on March 18, 2024.