Asian Studies: Civil Society, Movements, and Politics in Contemporary East and Southeast Asia

<p>Social movements and civil society matter. This course explains how social actors emerge, adapt, and challenge power in Asia, giving you insight into the region’s distinct political landscapes and the dynamics of social transformation.</p><p>This master’s-level course offers an interdisciplinary perspective, linking Asia-focused Area Studies with Social Movement Studies. It examines the development of social movements across Asia and critically analyses concepts such as civil society, activism, and political change.</p><p>You will engage with theoretical frameworks on social mobilisation and collective action, applying them to diverse Asian contexts, particularly in illiberal or semi-democratic settings. The course explores how social actors emerge, negotiate power structures, and resist political control. Case studies - from street protests to digital activism - illustrate the opportunities and challenges facing contemporary movements. Lectures, seminars, and film screenings provide a critical lens on how social movements interact with political regimes and social structures.<br/></p><p>Key topics include human rights, environmental activism, youth movements, collective memory, new social movements, and authoritarian dynamics. You will work with perspectives such as resource mobilisation, political process theory, transnational activism, and everyday resistance to understand movements in East and Southeast Asia.</p>