Neoliberal Institutionalism Research Articles

Exploring Mercosur‐EU interregionalism: A multifaceted analysis of its past, present and future functions and dynamics

AbstractThis article provides an analysis of the relationship between the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) and the European Union (EU) focusing on its purposes and functions, by exploring the literature on interregionalism through the perspectives of three distinct schools of thought: neorealism, neoliberal institutionalism and constructivism. Considering the functions theoretically fed by these theories behind interregional relations‐balancing, institution‐building and collective identity‐building‐, the paper attempts at providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the past and current purposes and functions of Mercosur‐EU relations and holds the potential to anticipate future trends. Our central argument underscores the enduring relevance of the setting of rules and norms and the focus on material gains in shaping the core of the relationship, particularly regarding the trade agreement, while the ideational function of sharing collective identity and values has experienced certain erosion. Nevertheless, increasingly crucial will be the geopolitical purpose, concerning balancing and counterbalancing external actors, given the current era of geopolitical upheaval where binary narratives fall short. We are not concerned with forecasting the future of the relationship as a whole; instead, we aim to analyse which functions will hold greater significance.

Peace Education Programme in Kenya and UNICEF’s Reinforcement

As a region prone to conflict, an Introduction to peace is mainly essential for Kenya. The government projects that education can build a peaceful Kenya. As a result, the government is allocating an amount of budget to improve education in Kenya especially in eradicating violence and maintaining peace – especially, post-election violence and sexual abuse. The government has also adopted a UNICEF program, the Peace Education Program (PEP). The government's ambition is limited to designing a system that is only effective in some areas. Therefore, UNICEF complements the government’s effort to carry out policies of a peaceful education system and conduct action research. The efforts coming from the cooperation between UNICEF and the Kenyan government will also be adjusted to the Neoliberal institutionalism theory. This theory is essential to adjust the role of UNICEF in empowering and assisting the Kenyan government while Kenya still upholds its own interests. This paper will mainly focus on the research of the Peace Education Program in Kenya and how UNICEF assist and support its implementation. Keywords: Peace Education Program (PEP);Kenya; Children; UNICEF

Evolution of Cooperation among BRICS Countries in Global Climate Governance: From UNFCCC to the Paris Agreement

In the complex world of international negotiations, nation-states often navigate a spectrum of political relationships, from alliances and partnerships to competition and rivalry. Despite their diverse backgrounds and interests, the BRICS countries collectively constitute a significant proportion of global greenhouse gas emissions. Drawing upon the principles of neoliberal institutionalism, this study delves into the origins of the BRICS cooperation mechanism and its impact on climate cooperation among its member states. Our analysis traces the climate policies of BRICS nations since the inception of the UNFCCC in 1992, taking into consideration factors such as their level of economic development, environmental vulnerability, and the broader international political context. We argue that these three factors primarily shape the dynamics of alliance and partnership within BRICS regarding climate governance, although underlying competition may also influence collaborative efforts. This study aims to stimulate further theoretical discourse on the formation of political alliances within the context of global climate governance.

The Significance of International Cooperation on Climate Change Mitigation in Afghanistan

Afghanistan confronts significant issues as a result of climate change, as the nation is susceptible to landslides, floods, droughts, and rising temperatures. Studying how international cooperation influences Afghanistan's attempts to mitigate climate change becomes crucial in light of these challenges. This study delves into the significance of such cooperation and its influence on Afghanistan's climate change policies and governance. To explore this topic, we employed a qualitative research approach along with content analysis, framed within a neoliberal framework. By adopting this approach, we aim to identify and analyze international cooperation on climate change in Afghanistan. The study reveals that international cooperation significantly impacts Afghanistan's climate change policy and governance, aligning with neoliberal institutionalism theory's emphasis on global challenges. Important conclusions from our research can help development partners, policymakers, and groups addressing climate change in Afghanistan. The results highlight the necessity of funding, technical support, and capacity building for the creation of successful policies and initiatives. Afghanistan can improve its resilience to climate change and sustainable development by placing a high priority on international cooperation. Financing, technical support, and opportunities for knowledge sharing would all be necessary for this. In addition to investments in sustainable agriculture, disaster risk reduction, facility training, foreign aid, and renewable energy, Afghanistan needs international funding currently. This article emphasizes the need for international cooperation in Afghanistan's struggle against climate change and the possibility for sustainable development through the exchange of information, operational help, and funding.

Upaya Pemerintah Provinsi Riau dalam Menangani Kasus Kebakaran Hutan Riau berdasarkan ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution

This research discusses the efforts of the Riau Provincial Government in raising awareness among the local community to prevent forest and land fires, which have become a serious issue in the Southeast Asian region. Grounded in the theories of compliance, neoliberal institutionalism, and the concept of international regimes, this study reveals that Indonesia, as the main actor in the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP), has made efforts to comply with the agreement. Preventive measures against forest and land fires involve the central and local governments, as well as the active participation of local communities. Education and socialization programs about the dangers of forest and land fires, relevant regulations, and their negative impacts are crucial components of the prevention strategy. Furthermore, private companies such as Asian Agri and PT SRL play a significant role in supporting these prevention programs. The research findings indicate that despite numerous efforts, the issues of forest fires and transboundary air pollution remain serious concerns in the Southeast Asian region. AATHP, as a binding legal framework for Indonesia, requires more extensive and sustainable efforts to achieve the desired goals of preventing transboundary air pollution. Community awareness and cooperation between government, private entities, and NGOs will be key to addressing this issue.

EUROPEAN GREEN DEAL: INSTITUSIONALISM UNI EROPA DALAM MENGHADAPI ISU PERUBAHAN IKLIM

his research analyzes the efforts of the European Union (EU) in overcoming climate change through the European Green Deal (EGD). Neoliberalism perspectives, Neoliberal institutionalism theory, and sustainable development are used to further analyze energy transitions and sustainability in EGD. The importance of EGD to the EU climate policy sustainability shows the expansion of sector coverage and progress in achieving the goal, being climate neutral by 2050. Through EGD, the EU is carrying out an energy transition with a wider sector coverage, such as buildings, industry, food, and agriculture. In order to achieve common goals, it is necessary to implement EGD as the European Union's foreign policy. EU efforts through EGD policies and strategies are renewable energy, REPowerEU, Farm to Fork strategy, deforestation strategy, New European Bauhaus, and the European Sustainable Investment Plan to support the sustainability of EGD on financial allocation with a just transition mechanism

Beneath The Horror of Human Trafficking in Laos: Unraveling Asean's Efforts and Failures Through the Lens Of Neoliberal Institutionalism

This study aims to examine the role of ASEAN, with a specific focus on the Indonesian Chairmanship in 2023 and the future Lao chairmanship in 2024, in addressing the persistent issue of non-traditional security concerns, specifically human trafficking and sex trafficking, which have been prevalent in Laos for an extended period of time. In addition, this analysis will explore the involvement of Lao governments and residents in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors contributing to the enduring prevalence of human trafficking in Laos or arenas such as GTSEZs which has exploited Laotian workers. This study will employ a qualitative research methodology, employing the theoretical framework of neoliberal institutionalism to examine the extent to which ASEAN has achieved success or failure in fostering cooperation as an institution. In addition, this study will thoroughly examine the intricacies of domestic politics in Lao. This study reveals that ASEAN has undertaken many initiatives, including ACTIP, NRM, and collaboration between Indonesia and Laos. However, upon further analysis of the government of Lao's endeavors in resolving this subject, it becomes evident that their attempts have been inadequate in terms of institutional capacity, domestic political considerations, and cultural comprehension. Hence, in order to enhance the efficacy of ASEAN's endeavors, it is imperative for the Lao government to demonstrate unwavering dedication in addressing the horror of human trafficking.

The limits of weaponised interdependence after the Russian war against Ukraine

ABSTRACT The idea of weaponised interdependence has led many to believe that Russia would not invade Ukraine due to the high costs of sanctions, including through the Western-backed SWIFT system of financial payments. Although Russia’s economy has been facing shortcomings, the Russian leadership thrived in part due to connections beyond the West. This article argues that scholars have missed the fact that, more than being interdependent with the West, rising states have been decoupling from the United States and the European Union. Emerging powers, particularly China and Russia, have expanded their trade network and built their own financial infrastructure. Those transformations call for a less Western-centric International Relations (IR) scholarship. Scholars should furthermore not only focus on theories of Neoliberal Institutionalism, but also consider contributions from Realism and Marxism to International Political Economy (IPE).

A Systematic Review: Revisiting Neoliberal Institutionalism in the Modern Context with Political Philosophy Considerations

This paper contributes to the modern neoliberal institutionalist line of thinking and international relations studies by revisiting and discussing neoliberal arguments under todays socio-economic and political background. The goal is to defend neoliberal institutionalism through a brief and yet systematic review of classical neoliberal works. An interdisciplinary approach is taken through paralleling neoliberalism with theories in philosophy (utilitarianism and pragmatism) and politics. Criticisms from neorealists and worrying issues like state-contestation and counter-institutionalization are discussed and defended. Afghanistans accession to becoming a WTO member has been used as an example to show the positive influence that international organizations and institutions can exert in the 21st century.

PAKISTAN'S SECURITY RELATIONS WITH KENYA, SOUTH AFRICA AND NIGERIA: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

This study examines Pakistan's security relations with Kenya, South Africa and Nigeria, specifically focusing on the influence of geopolitical, economic and cultural factors. Three main research questions guide the research: a) what are the similarities and differences in Pakistan's security relations with these three countries? b) How do geopolitical factors shape Pakistan's security relations with each country? c) What roles do cultural and economic ties play in shaping these security relationships? The study identifies and compares similarities and differences in security relations among these countries, highlighting the unique historical, geopolitical, and cultural factors through a multidimensional approach, drawing insights from Realism, Constructivism and Neoliberal Institutionalism. The findings underscore the significance of considering power dynamics and cultural influences in understanding security relations. Furthermore, the study sheds light on the potential of international institutions in promoting cooperation and building trust between Pakistan and its African counterparts. Bibliography Entry Khan, Tariq. 2023. "Pakistan's Security Relations with Kenya, South Africa and Nigeria: A Comparative Analysis." Margalla Papers 27 (1): 123-137.

Cooperation Between Russia and Norway: Strengthening Dialogue in the Arctic

This study analyzes the degree of influence of international tension due to anti-Russian sanctions on relations between Russia and Norway at the governmental and regional levels, including political, economic, environmental, cultural, and other spheres. The authors begin by discussing how Norway’s accession to anti-Russian sanctions and active involvement in NATO have affected bilateral relations, especially in the economic and political spheres. The presented work is based on the principles of historicism and objectivity. The methodological framework for writing the article is the model of neoliberal institutionalism and constructivism. The source base of the study, in addition to publications in periodicals, consists of official documents regulating the foreign policy activities of Russia and Norway. The article attempts to structure the relations of the two Arctic neighbouring countries under new international conditions by highlighting two levels of interaction – governmental and regional – as well as critical elements, including issues of economic cooperation, mutual sanctions, cooperation in the field of environmental protection and fisheries, cooperation between the two countries in Spitsbergen, cooperation in science, culture, and education; and regional cooperation between Russia and Norway in the North and the Arctic. The article discusses to what extent security issues affect the development of the Russian-Norwegian dialogue in using the NSR as a transport route and problematic issues around Spitsbergen. Finally, the authors consider what practical measures are being taken by Russia and Norway to mitigate the general international tension in the bilateral dialogue using public diplomacy in the framework of strengthening and expanding contacts through the Barents Cooperation and interaction at the level of municipalities as well as universities in Russia and Norway. The authors conclude that notwithstanding geopolitical tensions, regional cooperation due to common borders, cultural and historical heritage, and the geo-economic relationship could be the primary drivers for the revival of ties between the two countries. Authors’ contribution. Jawahar Vishnu Bhagwat developed the concept of the study and worked out its theoretical and methodological foundations. I.V. Rogachev analyzed the policies of Russia and Norway in various areas of bilateral cooperation and formulated the final conclusions.

The Successfulness of the Reasons for Malaysia’s Energy Initiatives

From the standpoint of Neoliberal Institutionalism, this study explores Malaysia's participation in activities that make energy the topic and/or object of foreign policies, whether through bilateral or multilateral engagements. This research, which aims to evaluate the relevance of energy in Malaysia's economy and diplomacy and to explain Malaysia's reason for its involvement in these cooperations, is necessary because of Malaysia's growing involvement in the global energy market. Information for this study was gathered from a variety of government sources, interviews, published statistical data, and previous studies. The study demonstrates how vital energy is to Malaysia's economy. The Lao PDR-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project (LTMS-PIP) initiative, in which Malaysia is participating, is evidence of the viability of multilateral power commerce in the area. The Peninsula Gas Utilisation (PGU) pipeline in Peninsular Malaysia and the Four-Fuel Diversification Policy 1981 (4FDP 1981), which increases natural gas utilisation, are related to Malaysia's participation in the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area (MT-JDA). Malaysia would want to think about streamlining its energy administration.

International Climate Cooperation: A Case Study of China and India

Climate change has become one of the hottest global issues. As a worldwide public issue, climate change cannot be solved by a single nation. Only through international cooperation can it be resolved. This paper will take the cooperation between China and India, two emerging powers, as an example and discuss the cooperation between countries in the field of climate change through the case study method from the perspective of international cooperation in the Neoliberal institutionalism theory. Moreover, as two promising emerging powers, the research on China-India climate cooperation is of great significance to all developing countries and the entire international community. Neoliberal institutionalism theory emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and international institutions. In global climate governance, the shared interests of China and India, such as similar domestic conditions, have solidified into a basis for bilateral cooperation, and the international institutions are effective mechanisms to guarantee China-India cooperation. However, the climate cooperation between China and India is mainly confined to the signing of agreements, and there is still much room for further development of research and development cooperation in core technologies.

Postmodernism and IR Theory

IR Theory underwent tremendous contestation within itself since the end of the Cold War. Divergent voices from several theoretical vantage points began to register their strong presence in one of the most fertile areas of social inquiry. Under the influence of Post positivism conventional understanding of IR Theory dominated by Realism and Neorealism and Idealism and Neo liberal Institutionalism has undergone serious disciplinary scrutiny. Critical Theory, Postmodernism, Constructivism, Feminism, Postcolonialism and Environmentalism completely and radically transformed the agenda of IR Theory. This short essay is a modest attempt to explore the role Postmodernism played in the transformation of the theoretical understanding of IR. Before addressing the main issue at hand, it is in order to mention the main tenets of Positivist Philosophy which has left formative influence on the nature of human/cultural/social sciences at least since the Enlightenment against the background of which Postmodernism not only asserted itself after the Second World War but also designed its agenda to be implemented in the theoretical lore of human sciences in general and IR Theory in particular. Let me begin with the definition of Positivism.

Remodeling of International Regimes in Neoliberal Institutionalism Perspective: Case Study of the South China Sea Arbitration

Among the various disputes in the South China Sea, the China-Philippines arbitration case embodies the legalization of international conflict resolution. However, after the ruling was issued, China viewed it as a “scrap of paper,” and the Philippines had no intention of restraining China through the ruling. International law is considered a “paper tiger” due to the lack of mandatory enforcement, and international regimes were once seen as dysfunctional and chaotic systems. Then both China and the Philippines put bilateral relations back on track through economic diplomacy and negotiations. It is clear that sovereignty is at the core of maintaining international law and regimes, but it does not mean that states can adopt the principle of “self-help”. How can international regimes be reshaped to be flexible and resilient, and how can a virtuous model of balances between state power and international regimes be achieved in future international conflict resolution? To answer these questions, this study will explore the possibility of transforming and reshaping international regimes, using neoliberal institutionalism as a logical starting point and complex interdependence theory as a model framework. International regimes are not a means for the weaker states to achieve their claims; achieving a win-win situation in economic and power reciprocity is the most direct way to resolve disputes over the South China Sea, and the resilience of international regimes is reflected by expanding from bilateral to multilateral models of shared governance in the South China Sea through alliance politics and economic diplomacy.

THE IMPACT OF MOTIVATIONS BEHIND MALAYSIA’S ENERGY INITIATIVES

This research examines Malaysia’s involvement in activities which render energy as the subject and/or object of foreign policies, either via bilateral or multilateral engagements, from the perspective of Neoliberal Institutionalism. Malaysia’s increased involvement in theglobal energy market necessitates this research which seeks to determine the significance of energy in Malaysia’s economy anddiplomacy, to understand Malaysia's motivation for its involvement in these co-operations. For this research, information is obtained through various official sources, interviews, published statistical data and past studies. The research shows that energy contributes significantly to Malaysia’s economy. Malaysia’s involvement in Lao PDR-Thailand- Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project (LTMS-PIP) initiative demonstrates the viability of multilateral electricity trade in the region. The Four-Fuel Diversification Policy 1981 (4FDP 1981) which increases natural gas utilization and the construction of the Peninsula Gas Utilisation (PGU) pipeline in Peninsular Malaysia are related to Malaysia’s involvement in Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area (MT-JDA), whereas these initiatives contribute towards enhancing Malaysia’s energy security, Malaysia can still play proactive roles in regional energy cooperation, as regional energy hub or transit state. Malaysia might also want to consider consolidating its energy administration for efficiency. Malaysia’s experience in negotiating for JDA is also useful in addressing the current disputes in South China Sea.

How Iran Overrides IAEA to Examine Iran's Nuclear Energy Development

In human life, weapons of mass destruction pose a threat to all. Since the era of war has ended, the international world has no longer felt the presence of weapons of mass destruction. The research question found by the author in this article is Iran's efforts to deal with the IAEA which implements a unilateral policy to conduct inspections of Iran's nuclear energy. In addition, the author also limits the discussion to only the efforts made by Iran in rejecting the IAEA's actions to examine nuclear development in Iran. Before discussing these points, the author will provide a discussion of the reasons why the IAEA wants to examine Iran's nuclear development first. With the limitations of this research, the author can describe the discussion specifically and get good results. Neoliberal Institutionalism as one of the major theories of International Relations is the main point of view used by the author to analyze the formulation of the problem. Basically, Iran did not accept the examination submitted by the IAEA because Iran found the fact that the IAEA allegedly leaked some Iranian nuclear secrets so that Iran had lost confidence in the IAEA.

The Belt and Road Digital Financial Cooperation and Risk Governance Policy Research

Since the proposal of the "One Belt and One Road" initiative, it has attracted wide attention of the international community. As a key link of the OBOR initiative, financing is the blood of promoting the economic development of member countries, and the OBOR financial cooperation has been quite effective. Since 2013, the combination of digitalization and finance leads to new forms of finance, and the channels and methods of financial cooperation have been expanding. At the same time, the domestic and international environment has dramatically changed, especially since the COVID-19 and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, so the OBOR transnational digital financial cooperation is facing unprecedented risks and challenges. Based on the analysis of existing literature, this paper explores the reasons behind the OBOR digital financial cooperation from the perspective of Neo Liberal Institutionalism. At the same time, this paper summarizes the current situation and characteristics of the OBOR digital financial cooperation and its multiple risks, and put forward feasible governance policy to help China participate in regional financial governance, provide regional leadership, work with countries along the OBOR to maintain world peace and stability.

Food Crisis in Yemen

Since the Yemen conflict in 2015, the food crisis and water scarcity in Yemen have been getting worse and increasing the number of victims who died due to hunger and malnutrition. Therefore, Yemen food insecurity also ultimately has an impact on politics, the economy, and various other aspects. Thus, the international community tried to prevent worse situations through international cooperation. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) carried out this cooperation with the commitment of its member countries to solve this issue. Therefore, that is the beginning of this research which discusses FAO's efforts in dealing with the food crisis in Yemen. This paper uses the theory of neoliberal institutionalism with qualitative research methods to get a full illustration of FAO's activities through a literature review. Finally, this paper finds out that FAO has contributed and played an important role in dealing with the Yemen food crisis through program that have been designed and implemented.

One Film, Many Perspectives: Understanding The Issue Of Climate Change In The Documentary Film Before The Flood

There have been abundant literature concerning movies as a learning tool in International Relations (IR). The use of movies as a learning tool matters in order to achieve learning outcomes since movies could reduce the level of abstraction of a concept. This paper aims to explain the global climate change phenomenon depicted in a documentary film entitled Before the Flood using four main theoretical approaches in IR, namely, realism, neoliberal institutionalism, Marxism, and constructivism. This paper argues that Before the Flood is quite relevant and effective to achieve learning outcomes of IR theories course. Watching documentary films is expected to enrich learning methods in IR particularly IR theories courses by using audio-visual instruments.