DAFF 25A98 - China and South-Central Asia: Belt and Road Initiatives and Counter-Terrorism

This course critically examines China's relationships with Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the five Central Asian countries, focusing on the implications of its economic and security policies. It explores China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its impact on regional dynamics, particularly in light of rising radical and terrorist groups. The course addresses the heightened scrutiny of South-Central Asia (SCA) due to geopolitical competition and the aftermath of NATO's withdrawal from Afghanistan, which has allowed terrorist organizations to exploit the situation.

Counterterrorism emerges as a central theme, analyzing how China's strategies intersect with its foreign policy objectives in SCA. Additionally, the course aims to contextualize China's approach within Global IR frameworks and historical Chinese concepts during Xi Jinping's era, examining interactions with various international stakeholders and their implications for the evolving global order.

Through this lens, students will engage with critical discussions on the complexities of China's influence in SCA and its broader geopolitical ramifications.

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Reading Review and Response to Session Questions 20%

Read assigned materials and write a 150 words response to the session question. This will ensure you’re prepared for class discussions. It starts from the second session.

Submit approximately 150 words that directly engage with the required reading. Highlight your main arguments using a different text colour. Include at least two in-text citations from the reading with page numbers (Author, p. 32). At the start of each session, randomly 2–3 students share their responses.

• Oral Presentation 20%

Work in pairs to deliver a 10-minute presentation on a course-related topic.

Presentation Structure: Choose a date and topic; inform the instructor.

Slide Creation: Prepare 10-15 clear, organized slides. Use them as support, not a script.

Evaluation Criteria:

Relevance: Topic should align with course themes.

Slides/Media Quality: Visually appealing and enhances the message.

Conclusion: Strong, summarizing key points and offering insights.

Expression: Clear, confident, and engaging delivery.

• Final Exam 30%

A comprehensive final exam at the end of the course will cover all content and constitutes a significant portion of your grade.

• Debate 15%

Encourages critical thinking and contributes to the final grade.

• In-Class Active Participation 15%

Active participation is key, contribute to discussions, ask questions, and engage with the material.