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This article provides a historical overview of the period from 1853 to 1889, during which Okinawa transitioned from the Ryūkyū Kingdom to Okinawa prefecture. It examines the political process of integrating Okinawa into the modern Japanese state, considering both international and domestic challenges faced by the Meiji regime. The article also explores the unique position of Okinawa within Japanese society, its historical relations with China, and the resistance movements that emerged during the integration process. Additionally, the document discusses the negotiations between Japan and China regarding the division of the Ryūkyū archipelago, which ultimately failed to reach an agreement. It also delves into the Meiji government's decision to station a military detachment in Okinawa for national defense purposes, despite objections from China. [Extracted from the article]

In November 2020, the first woman Indigenous Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nanaia Mahuta, was appointed in Aotearoa New Zealand. Mahuta has reinforced the message of taking a values-based Indigenous-centred approach to foreign policy and development. She has also recognised the mana of wāhine (the unique spiritual authority of women), "not defined by western feminist thinking, but the values that have long underpinned our culture, histories and traditions". Her appointment reflects the complicated intersections of Indigeneity, colonialism, Western feminist discourse, and foreign policy in a settler-hegemonic state, and the possibilities (and constraints) for reimagined futures. How, then, can the teaching of gender and development (GAD) be attentive to these politics of settler-colonialism in Aotearoa? How can the complexities of the colonial project be reflected in GAD, and how can GAD be responsive to settler-hegemonic and Indigenous spaces? This paper will explore these questions and look at GAD's role in perpetuating or unsettling settler-colonialism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The approaching centenary of the Locarno conference in October 1925 provides a convenient reason to re-evaluate the significance of the treaties that emerged from it. Often styled as the 'real' peace settlement at the end of the First World War, the treaties of Locarno collectively represent one of the most important attempts to ensure lasting peace in Europe in the first half of the twentieth century. Central to the treaties' reputation as the 'real' peace settlement is their role in rehabilitating Germany's Great Powers status after the humiliation suffered at the Paris Peace Conference six years earlier. The Locarno agreements have been seen as one of the rare highpoints in post-First World War Western European diplomacy. They were viewed by contemporaries as a real diplomatic breakthrough that would allow finally for the ghosts of the enmities that had caused the First World War to be laid to rest, although subsequent generations of scholars have been much more critical about what the agreements achieved in the long-term. This article focuses on the contribution made to the conference by the head of the British delegation, the Foreign Secretary, Sir Austen Chamberlain. It re-examines his diplomatic priorities, especially his reputation as a Francophile. Its central thesis is that Chamberlain himself can be seen to embody the essential reasons why the Locarno agreements were heralded as a success at the time of their conclusion, but less so with the perspective of hindsight. The treaties contained within them two opposing diplomatic forces. On the one hand, the remnants of the pre-war national state system, with its emphasis on diplomatic self-interest, secret, private negotiations, versus the so-called 'new' diplomacy: international, open, democratic and accountable. This rendered most of the European diplomatic problems in the post-First World War era intractable; indeed that they were incapable of resolution by anyone. Chamberlain's entire engagement with the western European security question during the mid-1920s can be seen as evidence not only of those tensions but of the futility of trying to resolve them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are widely differing interpretations of Lord Haldane's behaviour during the July crisis. To some historians, the Lord Chancellor was part of a group – alongside Prime Minister H.H. Asquith, Foreign Secretary Sir Edward Grey and First Lord of the Admiralty Winston Churchill – loyal to the Anglo-French entente cordiale, who supported British intervention. As a former Secretary of War, they also believe he was committed to the early despatch of a British Expeditionary Force to the continent. But some of his contemporaries suspected Haldane of 'pro-Germanism', believed that he strove to prevent Britain going to war, that he worked to forestall the despatch of troops to France and that he tried to block Lord Kitchener's appointment to head the War Office. This essay reconsiders the issue, exploiting evidence unavailable to earlier writers – notably an unpublished memoir by Haldane's close friend, the Librarian of the House of Lords, Edmund Gosse – and argues that, far from exhibiting sympathy for Germany in 1914, Haldane was at the forefront of those who pushed the Liberal government towards war, having decided, early in the July crisis, that Germany was determined to exploit the situation to tip the balance of power in its own favour. He also acted as an important emotional prop for Grey in the closing week of the crisis and foresaw that the war, far from being 'over by Christmas', was likely to last for years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the history of Germany from the late 19th century to the present day. It highlights the unification of Germany in the late 19th century and the subsequent rise and fall of the German Empire. The author analyzes the political, economic, cultural, and societal developments during this period, addressing the question of a "special path" in German history. The article also explores the downfall of the German Empire during World War I and the subsequent political turmoil and revolution. It concludes by discussing the division of Germany into two states and the challenges faced during the reunification process. [Extracted from the article]

Panama's new president, José Raúl Mulino, has close ties to former president Ricardo Martinelli, who was disqualified from the presidential race due to a prison sentence for corruption. Mulino's right-wing government is expected to prioritize projects such as pension system reform and public healthcare, which may further exacerbate inequality in the country. Mulino's cabinet is largely composed of Martinelli allies, and his administration is likely to be business-friendly. There are concerns about Mulino's stance on mining and water issues, as he is seen as an ally of the mining sector and has expressed a centralized approach to addressing water shortages. [Extracted from the article]

This article examines the experiences of Indigenous women in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Panama who have achieved positions within state institutions. It discusses the changing political systems in the region and the recognition of plurinationalism, but also highlights the challenges faced by Indigenous women due to discrimination, marginalization, and poverty. The article explores the historical context of Indigenous affairs in these countries and the different approaches to Indigenous rights and representation. It includes personal accounts from Indigenous women in government roles, emphasizing the difficulties they face and the balance they must maintain between their communities and the state. Overall, the article highlights the importance of recognizing the historical struggles of Indigenous communities and the need for plural representation in the state. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the internment of German civilians in British West Africa during World War II, focusing on the case of Mr. Ernst Friedrichsdorf. It discusses the factors and power dynamics that led to the internment of German subjects in West Africa and highlights the historiographical imbalance in the colonial perspective of internment. The study relies on primary colonial records and provides new insights into the experiences of German civilians in West Africa during the war. The text also discusses the internment of German subjects in West Africa during the First and Second World Wars, highlighting the presence of German-speaking people in the region before official colonization. It examines the treatment of German subjects as enemy immigrants during the Second World War and the categorization of enemy immigrants in Great Britain. The article also discusses the role of consular representation and protecting powers in protecting the interests of enemy subjects during the war. The internment camps in West Africa provided some privileges and opportunities for the internees, but the unconventional treatment of Germans during the war had long-lasting effects on German presence in the postcolonial period. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges of framing foreign policy in the midst of domestic crises. It highlights the need for a new government to address both domestic and international risks and links between them. The article explores the concept of "progressive realism" as a potential approach to foreign policy, which involves using realist means to pursue progressive ends. It also acknowledges the difficulties and tensions in implementing such a policy, including the need to work with countries that do not share progressive values and the competition for resources between domestic and international priorities. The article emphasizes the importance of collective problem-solving and rebuilding trust in the international system to address global challenges effectively. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the lessons that the Labour Party in the UK can learn from its past experiences in government. It emphasizes the importance of institution building and enacting lasting legislative reforms that subsequent governments will accept. The article also highlights the challenges that Labour has faced in foreign policy and the need for a proactive approach. It suggests that Labour should avoid intellectual stagnation and seek input from think tanks and other organizations to detect blindspots in its agenda. Overall, the article encourages the Labour Party to be pragmatic, fearless, and willing to adapt to new challenges in order to inspire policy renewal. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the events of October 7 and their impact on Israeli society. It highlights the shattered illusion that Hamas would come to terms with Israel if given enough funds for its leaders and for the development of a better economy in the Gaza Strip. The article emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of Muslim culture and belief systems, as well as the religious dimension that underlies the politics of radical Islam. It also explores the comparisons made between the events of October 7 and the Holocaust, noting the concerns about the endangerment of the Jewish people and the existential nature of the current conflict. The author, Dina Porat, is an expert in the study of contemporary European Jewry and has extensive experience in the field of antisemitism and racism. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores a February 1980 trip to Japan by Douglas Fraser, the president of the United Automobile Workers. On the trip, Fraser met with the heads of Japan's biggest automakers, along with the prime minister and foreign affairs minister, pressing them to establish auto plants in the United States. Offering the first detailed examination of the trip — and the broader "build it here" campaign — this article argues that the visit was a crucial moment in the industry's history. Using rich and little-known primary records — including Fraser's personal notes and firsthand accounts from Japanese executives — this article shows that Fraser, along with supporters in the industry and federal government, influenced the Japanese to invest in the United States at a time when domestic manufacturers were in crisis. The article also reveals that the Japanese had fears about the move, especially about the quality of labor. Although they established plants, they placed them in the Lower Midwest or South, away from the UAW. The union's campaign had unintended consequences, helping the industry to survive — the foreign-owned sector grew to make half of all cars manufactured in North America — but not creating the union jobs that Fraser anticipated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The text discusses the field of ecolinguistics, which explores the relationship between language and ecology. The special issue of the Journal of World Languages focuses on the influence of language on our perceptions of nature and society. The contributions in this issue analyze various types of discourse, such as advertising, tourism, politics, and online communication, to uncover how language shapes and is shaped by societal imaginaries. Ecolinguistics can be seen as a critical paradigm that challenges dominant narratives and promotes environmental stewardship. It also explores more positive approaches that emphasize cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. The special issue includes research articles that examine topics such as corporate advertising, tourism promotion, indigenous knowledge, youth-generated environmental discourses, animal imagery in digital discourse, news reports on elephants, and the representation of nature in language textbooks. The future of ecolinguistic research lies in exploring indigenous and local knowledge systems, analyzing environmental narratives in media and politics, and intersecting with fields like ecopsychology and environmental education. The goal is to develop a deeper understanding of how language can contribute to a sustainable future. [Extracted from the article]

As opposed to Western ideologies that promote unrestrained consumption of environmental resources, Indigenous or Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) encourages a more beneficial relationship with nature. In order to address underrepresented subjects and contexts, this article investigates the integration of TEK within political discourse by examining a corpus of speeches given by Aotearoa New Zealand former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nanaia Mahuta, between 2020 and 2022. The study refers to the frameworks of ecolinguistics and Positive Discourse Analysis (PDA) to understand how Māori culture shapes Mahuta's linguistic choices. Particularly, it focusses the attention on lexical and figurative items, drawing on the concepts of metaphor, framing, and intertextuality. Results show a considerable concern over the state of the environment in Mahuta's speeches. Furthermore, they reveal the presence of an adaptation framing inspired by Indigenous thinking that acknowledges nature's agency and complexity. The latter is used to conceptualise current environmental challenges and international cooperation directed at tackling them. Mahuta's language ultimately supports the idea of interconnectedness within nature and offers as an instance of positive discourse in institutional settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the concept of core and periphery in the context of rule of law promotion, particularly within the European Union. It discusses the challenges of applying rule of law reforms to peripheral systems and the complexities of state inequality within the EU. The article also examines the role of populism in highlighting societal issues and the impact of the rule of law on economic policies. It further explores the relationship between anticorruption policies and the rule of law, emphasizing the need for caution in implementing disruptive reforms. The text also raises concerns about accountability and the treatment of vulnerable third-party nationals at the EU's external border. [Extracted from the article]

The Vatican Apostolic Library houses the Cerulli Collection of Ethiopian Manuscripts, donated by Enrico Cerulli, a scholar of Ethiopian languages and literature. Cerulli was accused of war crimes by Ethiopia but was not prosecuted. The question of whether the manuscripts should be returned to Ethiopia is discussed in relation to the Treaty of Peace between Italy and Ethiopia. The author notes that no official request for their return has been made. The text explores the evolving trend in international law regarding the return of cultural objects and suggests that the Vatican City should consider the moral and cultural aspects of the case. [Extracted from the article]

This article is a book review of "Why the West Can't Win: From Bretton Woods to a Multipolar World" by Fady Lama. The book delves into the relationship between economics and geopolitics, emphasizing the importance of considering both economic and security issues. It examines historical power struggles between the West and non-Western countries, with a particular focus on China and India. The author also explores the role of money power, financial crises, and how geopolitical factors impact economic development. The book argues that sustainable development requires economic and political sovereignty. Lama's analysis extends beyond the Western world, incorporating selected sequences from Japanese history to critique Western patterns and ideologies. The book challenges traditional economic causality and offers thought-provoking arguments about the realization of Western geopolitical intentions and the connection between the energy crisis and the Net Zero agenda. [Extracted from the article]

The document provides a detailed list of members of Oxford University mentioned in the letters, including notable Dons and undergraduates from various colleges. The Dons section includes scholars, historians, philosophers, and jurists from Balliol, Magdalen, and other colleges. The undergraduates section lists individuals from Balliol, Exeter, and other colleges, highlighting their educational background, war service, and subsequent careers in law, academia, and public service. The document offers a comprehensive overview of the diverse academic and professional paths pursued by members of Oxford University during the early 20th century. [Extracted from the article]

"The Pope at War: The Secret History of Pius XII, Mussolini, and Hitler" is a book that examines the controversial reign of Pope Pius XII during World War II. The author presents a detailed account of Pius XII's actions and decisions, suggesting that he prioritized the interests of the Roman Catholic Church over taking a strong stance against Nazi atrocities. The book discusses the pope's relationship with Hitler and Mussolini, his silence on the Holocaust, and instances of racism within the Vatican. It raises questions about Pius XII's missed opportunity to speak out against Nazi atrocities and the moral responsibility of the Roman Catholic Church. [Extracted from the article]

This text provides an overview of the progress and challenges of ASEAN regionalism, focusing on its unique features and objectives. It acknowledges the criticisms that ASEAN has faced, such as its perceived failure to address practical issues and security concerns. However, it emphasizes the importance of understanding ASEAN's "implicitly Asian features" and its commitment to community-building and identity issues. The text also highlights ASEAN's ambitions in fostering regional cooperation and community building, as well as its efforts to influence the wider regional order. It discusses the various institutions and mechanisms established by ASEAN to facilitate dialogue and cooperation among member states and other regional actors. The text addresses criticisms about ASEAN's slow-moving political processes and emphasizes the region's economic growth and potential. [Extracted from the article]

This text examines the role of moral emotions, specifically disgust and loyalty, in the global anti-apartheid movement. Activists used these emotions to create a powerful case against apartheid, framing it as a disease that needed to be isolated. The movement employed strategies such as boycotts, travel restrictions, and targeting individuals and organizations with ties to South Africa. The African National Congress (ANC) played a central role in shaping the movement, with its call for boycott, divestment, and sanctions being followed with religious fervor by its supporters. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding moral emotions in the study of international and global history. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the response to an oil spill in the Panama Canal Zone in 1968 and the subsequent establishment of an oil pollution control program. The program aimed to regulate pollution control, prevention, and persecution, but faced challenges due to tensions between U.S. officials, Panamanians, and the maritime industry. The article also discusses the complexities of pollution control in the Canal Zone, including legal and financial liability issues, discrepancies between international conventions and U.S. federal law, and the impact on marine life. The oil pollution control program became a source of conflict between the U.S. and Panama, highlighting jurisdictional limitations and pollution control objectives. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Australian foreign policy from July to December 2023. It covers a range of topics, including Australia's engagement with the Indo-Pacific region, its support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion, and its alliance with the United States through AUKUS. The article also discusses tensions surrounding Israel/Palestine, climate change/the Pacific, and the United States/China. It highlights Australia's efforts to engage with Pacific Island Countries on climate change and development, while acknowledging concerns about its position on these issues. The text further explores Australia's diplomatic engagements with Southeast Asia, the United States, and other countries such as Japan, Korea, and India. It emphasizes the government's focus on economic opportunities in Southeast Asia and its close alliance with the United States, while also mentioning efforts to strengthen relationships with other key players in the region. The article argues that representing Australia on the world stage is crucial for the country's security, prosperity, and regional stability, despite criticism from the Opposition. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the impending military intervention in Haiti by the United States and its allies, authorized by the United Nations Security Council. It argues that Western politicians and media have perpetuated racist stereotypes about Haitian people, leading to the acceptance of this invasion. The article also questions the claims of pan-African solidarity by Kenya and CARICOM states, highlighting neocolonial interests. It examines the history of Western imperialism in Haiti, including the 2004 coup and subsequent UN occupation, which resulted in the loss of Haiti's sovereignty. The text discusses the involvement of various countries in the crisis and foreign intervention, emphasizing the role of US imperialism. It calls for solidarity in the fight for Haitian sovereignty and provides a list of sources for further research on the topic. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores how digital technologies are changing the field of diplomacy, discussing the evolution of diplomacy from traditional practices to a modern form where technology is essential. It covers various digital tools and their impact on foreign policy and diplomatic practices, emphasizing the role of technological advancements in modern international relations. The article also highlights the challenges and benefits of this shift and the potential for further advancements in the future. It discusses the use of digital tools and social media platforms by diplomatic actors for communication, public engagement, and crisis management. The integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence into foreign policy frameworks is also highlighted. The article acknowledges the evolving nature of diplomacy in the digital age and the need for a nuanced understanding and approach to international diplomacy. It discusses the impact of digital technology on diplomatic engagement, diplomacy issues, and diplomatic practice, highlighting the changes in diplomatic communications and the role of social media in public diplomacy. It also discusses the use of social media and emerging technologies in diplomacy, emphasizing the need for a balanced and strategic approach. The article explores the potential impact of the metaverse on diplomacy, acknowledging the challenges of cybersecurity and maintaining human interactions. It concludes by emphasizing the significant impact of digital tools and technologies on foreign policy and international relations, while also highlighting the challenges and the importance of maintaining core diplomatic values and practices. [Extracted from the article]

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This article explores the relationship between China and Sri Lanka in the Indo-Pacific region. It discusses the historical ties between the two countries, including military assistance during Sri Lanka's civil war. The article also examines China's increasing influence in Sri Lanka through projects like the Hambantota port and the Belt and Road Initiative. It addresses concerns raised by India and the US about China's "debt-trap diplomacy" and the potential for military bases. The article concludes by discussing India's efforts to counter China's influence and become a responsible economic and strategic creditor to Sri Lanka. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores China's growing political and economic influence in Madagascar. Despite its small population and weak indicators, Madagascar's strategic location and natural resources make it important geopolitically. China has taken advantage of Madagascar's vulnerabilities and the lack of attention from other major powers to establish a political foothold on the island. The article examines China's loans and aid programs, as well as its increasing involvement in Madagascar's maritime sector. While China's involvement has brought development and infrastructure projects, there have also been concerns about the influx of Chinese goods and environmental issues. China's focus on economic impact rather than political and economic reforms, as well as its involvement in port projects and oil exploration, further solidify its presence in Madagascar. However, China's activities, such as illegal fishing and the illegal trade of rosewood, have raised concerns. China's engagement in Madagascar is part of its broader strategy to increase its influence in the Indian Ocean region. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the book "Alternative Paradigms" by Ahmet Davutoğlu, a prominent Turkish statesman and former party leader. The book presents Davutoğlu's alternative paradigm for understanding the world, which is distinct from Western perspectives. Davutoğlu argues that Western paradigms are incapable of considering other worldviews and that Islamic governance should be based on Islamic values rather than Western political ideology. The article highlights the differences between the Islamic and Western worldviews and criticizes attempts to reconcile the two. [Extracted from the article]

Columbia University has named Katrina Armstrong, an alumna of Indian Springs School in Alabama, as its interim president following the resignation of Minouche Shafik. Armstrong is well-known in the Columbia community and has made significant contributions to the health sciences at the university. She has also conducted research on health disparities in rural areas and mental health challenges in the United States. In her first statement as president, Armstrong acknowledged the recent challenges faced by the university and expressed her confidence in overcoming them. The university has not specified how long Armstrong will serve in the interim position. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the recent US-Australia 2+2 consultations, described as an "unbreakable alliance" by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Topics include the increased rotation of American forces to Australia, upgrades to Australian military bases, and the pre-allocation of US army equipment in the region.