Abstracts

Key Considerations for Constructing Area and Country Studies as an Academic Discipline (5)

Tang Shiqi

【Abstract】Area and Country Studies is a Level I discipline with its own characteristics that shares some key aspects of traditional social sciences and humanities but also differs in other ways. In constructing this discipline, it may be beneficial to emphasize integrating its various components, differentiate the characteristics of area studies from country studies,and conduct problem-oriented research. Based on this, researchers can gradually define a distinctive methodology, core concepts, theoretical framework, and body of knowledge for Area and Country Studies by analyzing real issues.

【Key Words】Area and Country Studies, integration, problem-oriented research

【Author】Tang Shiqi, Dean and Professor of the School of International Studies, Director of the Institute of Area Studies at Peking University, whose research focuses on political philosophy, comparative political thought and comparative politics.

The Evolution of Australia’s Role in the South Pacific from Dependence to Autonomy (14)

Ning Tuanhui Zhu Zhongbo

【Abstract】Since the modern era, Australia’s role in the South Pacific region has undergone a transition from dependence to autonomy. Specifically, it has shifted from dependence on the United Kingdom, to following the United States, and ultimately to independently shaping regional dominance. In different historical periods, Australia assisted its suzerain with colonial expansion and resource exploitation in the region. It also helped consolidate the Western bloc’s sphere of influence and develop/control the resources of Pacific Island countries. More recently, Australia has maintained dominant influence over island nations through development assistance while hindering their relationships with external major powers. Examining these issues provides important insights for both academic and policy audiences. It sheds light on Australia’s dual nature as a middle power with international behavior influenced by both dependence and pursuit of autonomous regional leadership.

【Key Words】Australia, Pacific Islands, middle power, US-Australia Alliance

【Authors】Ning Tuanhui, Assistant research fellow at the Center for Maritime Security and Cooperation, China Institute of International Studies, whose focuses on China’s neighborhood diplomacy, Australia’s foreign policy, New Zealand’s foreign policy, and the relations between China and the Pacific Island countries; Zhu Zhongbo, Director and Associate research fellow at the Department for International and Strategy Studies, China Institute of International Studies, whose research focuses on international strategy.

Fiscal Transfers and Separatism: A Review of Theoretical and Empirical Research of New Political Economy (30)

Xie Yuhang

【Abstract】Currently, there is a widespread presence of ethnic separatist movements globally, and fiscal transfer payments are an important policy tool adopted by countries to maintain national unity. This article reviews three classic political economic theory models that explore ethnic separatist movements. These theoretical models all argue that the decision of whether or not an ethnic region separates is a rational choice made by its members based on their own interests. Fiscal transfer payments are seen as an economic incentive that can influence the actual behavior choices of ethnic region members or elites. Among these models, the AS model suggests that the centrifugal tendencies in ethnic regions mainly arise from the heterogeneous preferences of minority ethnic members regarding national unity policies. Therefore, preference-based transfer payments can be used to offset the heterogeneous costs they bear. The D-L-O-W model builds on the AS model by considering regional income disparities and posits that affluent minority ethnic regions with preference heterogeneity are the most inclined towards separation. Hence, restricting income-based transfer payments is advantageous for maintaining national unity. The T-A model, on the other hand, views ethnic political elites as using separation as a strategic tool to advance their own political interests, and transfer payments serve to appease these regional political leaders. Additionally, factors such as ethnic distance, the political attitudes of other regions,and the political credibility of commitments made by the central government are considered important structural factors that can affect the actual policy outcomes of fiscal transfer payments in existing research. In the future, further research can deepen our understanding of the relationship between fiscal transfer payments and ethnic separatist movements by strengthening causal identification and incorporating concepts like the resource curse effect related to transfer payments.

【Key Words】fiscal transfer, separatist movement, economic benefit

【Author】Xie Yuhang, PhD in Economics, Lecturer, School of Public Administration,Southwest Jiaotong University, whose research focuses on public finance and state governance.

The Rise of Right-wing Populism in Germany and France: A Comparative Analysis (48)

【Abstract】In recent years, Europe has faced mounting insecurities including the debt crisis, refugee crisis, and intensifying social conflicts. Right-wing populism has staged a strong resurgence, gaining influence across European politics. Amid economic decline and mass refugee influx, German and French right-wing populist parties like Alternative for Germany and National Rally capitalized on anxieties, inflamed tensions, and offered radical populist propositions. This rapidly expanded their support and prominence. As their domestic influence grew, these parties expanded their policy focus beyond traditional antiimmigration stances to security, defense, foreign relations, and energy. This constrained governing parties while accelerating political extremism and fragmentation. The German and French right-wing parties exhibit Eurosceptic tendencies, using various means to hinder integration. As the post-pandemic era brings continued conflict in Ukraine and overlapping crises like energy and inflation, right-wing populism in Germany and France shows new trends.

【Key Words】EU, right-wing populism, Front National, Alternative for Germany,comparative analysis

【Authors】Li Wenhong, Professor of the School of German Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University, whose research focuses on international politics, international relations,German foreign policy and China-Germany relations; Wang Kun, Lecturer of the School of French and Francophone Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University, whose research focuses on French politics, French social policy, French and Francophone studies and China-France people-to-people exchanges.

Inflation, Currency Depreciation and Trade Balance: Assessing Türkiye’s Unorthodox Response to the 2021 Financial Crisis(71)

Wang Dehong Li Shilin

【Abstract】Countercyclical interest rate hikes are a mainstream response to inflation,maintaining stability at the cost of growth. Türkiye took an unorthodox approach after its 2021 currency crisis - slashing rates despite soaring inflation. This paper assesses the economic impacts of Türkiye’s controversial policy. Alternative rate cuts further stoked inflation but spurred a manufacturing boom, lower unemployment, surging imports and exports, and a bullish stock market. These effects remained robust over one year. While orthodoxy views rate hikes as imperative for inflation control, Türkiye’s case provides a rare window into the growth-enhancing effects of alternative regulation amid crisis.

【Key Words】inflation, currency devaluation，interest rate regulation，trade balance

【Authors】Wang Dehong, Professor of the International Business School, Beijing Foreign Studies University, whose research focuses on capital markets, corporate governance and risk management; Li Shilin, MA student of the International Business School, Beijing Foreign Studies University, whose research focuses on capital markets and corporate governance.

Assessing the Biden Administration’s Efforts to Reform US Illegal Immigration Policy (96)

Ou Ge Li Yonghui

【Abstract】 The Biden administration is committed to reforming illegal immigration policy. Upon taking office, it implemented a comprehensive new approach by relaxing law enforcement targeting undocumented immigrants, restoring and improving the asylum system,pursuing regional management strategies, and promoting legislative reform. Some results were achieved, but relatively permissive initial policies contributed to a surge in illegal border crossings and humanitarian crisis, sparking fierce Republican criticism and resistance from border states. The administration also drew disappointment from immigration supporters when it retreated on certain policies in response to setbacks. Against the backdrop of intensifying social divisions, partisan gridlock, and cultural clashes, Biden’s reform efforts may invite more controversy and long-term challenges. The complex issue of illegal immigration looks set to continue plaguing and polarizing America for the foreseeable future.

【Key Words】Biden administration, illegal immigration, border crisis, 2022 midterm elections

【Authors】 Ou Ge, PhD candidate at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy,Beijing Foreign Studies University, whose research focuses on American politics and diplomacy; Li Yonghui, Professor of the School of International Relations and Diplomacy,Beijing Foreign Studies University, whose research focuses on American politics and diplomacy.

Examining the Impact of International Organizations from an Area and Country Studies Perspective (113)

Liu Tiewa

【Abstract】Paying attention to how international organizations and mechanisms influence transnational issues provides valuable reference and guidance for China’s deepening participation in global governance during this period of unprecedented change. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the impact of international organizations using scientifically-developed indicator systems that measure performance across functional areas and actual effectiveness,in addition to traditional national governance research. This allows for better understanding of organizational structures and processes in global governance, and helps China more effectively contribute on the international stage. This study employs the methodology of an index developed by Beijing Foreign Studies University to measure the global influence of international organizations. Drawing on a database of organizations constructed since 2021,the paper introduces the research approach, which examines objects, methods, and content. It then outlines rankings of intergovernmental bodies across the domains of politics, education,culture, and science/technology completed to date. The aim is to identify general patterns in comprehending organizational impact, moving beyond conventional perspectives in politics,economics, communication, law, etc.

【Key Words】Area and Country Studies, international organization, impact, index,database

【Author】Liu Tiewa, PhD, Associate professor, dean of Beiwai College, Beijing Foreign Studies University, whose research focuses on United Nations and International Organizations.

Analyzing the International Development Finance Gap and Its Drivers under the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (134)

Liu Xian Zhang Chenxi

【Abstract】Since the adoption of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, financing for development has become critically important for implementation. However, challenges to achieving the 2030 Agenda have emerged in recent years. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the global economy and development landscape, further widening the gap between available international development finance and demand. To clarify the current situation and underlying causes, this study proposes an analytical framework to examine imbalances in supply and demand under the 2030 Agenda. It elucidates structural drivers of the widening finance gap from three perspectives: sectors, actors and channels, and financing instruments.The causes include insufficient funding in certain areas, limited participation of stakeholders,and constraints associated with specific mechanisms. The paper concludes by outlining policy recommendations and suggestions for China. Findings offer valuable insights for prioritizing areas of engagement that align China’s development initiatives with the 2030 Agenda and reinforce its role as a responsible global power.

【Key Words】financing for development, UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals,international development cooperation, blended financing

【Authors】Liu Xian, Assistant research fellow, Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation of the Ministry of Commerce, whose research focuses on international development cooperation and development financing; Zhang Chenxi, Research intern, Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation of the Ministry of Commerce, whose research focuses on international development cooperation and global governance.