The Political Economy of Transnational Governance: China and Southeast Asia in the 21st Century

The past two decades in Asia have seen significant socioeconomic and political changes, including the rise of China, the US-China confrontations, and the global Covid-19 pandemic. This book argues that an interwoven perspective of the political economy, transnational governance, and regional networks is an effective analytical framework for understanding these transformations and their global and theoretical implications.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The past two decades have been a period of significant socioeconomic and political transformation in Asia, marked by a multitude of transformative developments. These changes include the increasing interregional flows of capital, goods, people, and knowledge, the rise of China as the world's second-largest economy, and its growing influence in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, the United States and China have faced heightened confrontations in the global arena, while the global Covid-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges to the region.

In order to understand these complex transformations and their global and theoretical implications, this book takes a multidimensional approach, focusing on the multifaceted interactions between China and Southeast Asia. It examines the political economy, transnational governance, and regional networks as key analytical frameworks for analyzing these developments. By drawing upon a wide range of primary data and engaging with the latest interdisciplinary scholarship on contemporary Asia, the book offers thought-provoking and nuanced analyses that will appeal to scholars and students in a variety of fields, including Chinese and Southeast Asian studies, international political economy, international relations, ethnic and migration studies, and public governance.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the growing economic interconnectedness between China and Southeast Asia. The authors argue that the region has become increasingly integrated through trade, investment, and financial flows, leading to the emergence of new economic powerhouses and the reshaping of global economic dynamics. This economic integration has also brought about a range of challenges, such as competition, inequality, and environmental degradation.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of transnational governance in shaping these transformations. The authors argue that the increasing interdependence of countries in the region has led to the emergence of new governance structures and mechanisms, such as regional trade agreements, multilateral institutions, and diplomatic networks. These governance structures have played a crucial role in managing regional conflicts, promoting economic development, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and pandemics.

Regional networks, such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), are also examined in the book. The authors argue that these networks have played a significant role in promoting economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and political stability in the region. However, they also raise concerns about the potential risks and challenges associated with these networks, such as geopolitical tensions, economic dependence, and environmental sustainability.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the past two decades of socioeconomic and political transformation in Asia. By taking a multidimensional approach and examining the political economy, transnational governance, and regional networks, it offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shape the region's future. The book will appeal to scholars and students in a wide range of fields, and its thought-provoking and nuanced analyses will contribute to our understanding of the global and theoretical implications of these transformations.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367608828