Asia

Our work has three geographical focus areas: Northeast Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. The programme also examines how China's rise affects Asia, while in-depth China-related analysis is primarily conducted within UI's National China Centre.   

Our expertise is grounded in research and analysis, with a strong emphasis on thorough and multidisciplinary area knowledge. The programme and its staff are part of extensive networks, and we prioritize building collaborations with regional partners – something that enhances our knowledge acquisition. We publish our findings in our own and others’ publications. The programme also offers dialogue and meeting formats tailored to sharing knowledge effectively with diverse target audiences. 

Based on our geographical division, we focus on: 

• Rivalry and cooperation in Asia: Asia is a key region for addressing global challenges. In a changing world order, new lines of conflict emerge, but also new forms of cooperation. We analyse how countries in Asia build their foreign relations and partnerships to manage global challenges under shifting global power dynamics.  
• Politics related to the economy, trade, and economic security: Some of the world’s fastest-growing economies are found in Asia. The conditions for expanding economic cooperation between Sweden, Europe, and Asia are favourable, but history, societal development, policy environments, and geopolitics influence the ability to realize this potential. We analyse politics and policy related to economic transformation, trade, innovation, and development strategies, and we have deep insight into political thinking on these issues. 
• Policy and initiatives for technology, climate action, and connectivity: Like the rest of the world, Asia faces major, transformative changes because of climate change and technological development, with far-reaching consequences for society as a whole. We monitor and analyse the development and implementation of strategies aimed at addressing future challenges in Asia. 
• Asia in the world: Asia’s growing importance affects global cooperation, conflicts, and norms. We study how regional rivalry and cooperation shape political and economic decisions beyond Asia itself. 

Geographical focus areas 

Northeast Asia

One of the world’s most strategically important regions, where great-power rivalry, technological competition, and security tensions converge. We study developments in Japan and on the Korean Peninsula, as well as how these countries manage China’s looming influence on regional stability.

South Asia

Characterized by rapid economic growth, large population increases, and complex security challenges. With a focus on India as an emerging great power, we analyse the region’s political, economic, and societal transformations and its growing global significance.  

Southeast Asia

Dynamic, diverse, and strategically located, where economic integration, political diversity, and geopolitical competition intersect. We follow developments in individual countries as well as in various regional cooperation organisations. 

The Indo-Pacific region 

Events and developments in the vast maritime region linking the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean are central to global security and trade. We follow regionally focused initiatives aimed at managing power relations and fostering stability and development in this interconnected area.