Research Projects

China’s Foreign Policy and Human Security of Vulnerable Populations in Developing Countries

Summary and Aims of the Project

The research project focuses on the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative and other foreign policies on Asian developing countries. However, pertinent previous research has studied chiefly the impact on governments and elites. In contrast, this research project focuses on vulnerable people in developing countries, aiming to clarify their problems, their relationships with China’s foreign policy, and the relationships between companies and their domestic politico-economic situation. Our project is highly significant because China’s increasing influence has heightened the risks of political unrest, economic stagnation, and human rights issues in developing Asian nations. Our research team aims to clarify the concept of human security in Asia, clarify issues in areas such as the labor market, gender, and the work environment, examine the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary approach by implementing it in this project, and make policy suggestions that emphasize the vulnerable by closely understanding their vulnerable situation.

Our research is essential for addressing the challenges highlighted by the SDGs. In particular, this research will contribute to achieving the goals of “1. No poverty” and “8. Decent work and economic growth” in terms of our focus on issues of the labor market, gender, working environment, and living standards of the vulnerable. In addition, from the perspective of clearly understanding the position of the vulnerable and leading to policy proposals, it is closely related to goals such as “10. Reduced inequalities.”

Additionally, this project involves the next generation of researchers and postdoctoral graduate students. Under their initiatives, we will promote research communication among participating members and disseminate the research results through various international media. Through these experiences, we are working to help them develop their academic careers.

Research Projects