Politics of the Pacific

POL30014 12.5 Credit Points

Duration

  • One Semester

2019 teaching periods

Hawthorn

Higher Ed. Semester 2

Dates:
5 Aug 19 - 3 Nov 19

Results:
10 Dec 19

Last self enrolment:
18 Aug 19

Census:
31 Aug 19

Last withdraw without fail:
20 Sep 19

Prerequisites

50 Credit Points at Level 2

Aims and objectives

The unit of study introduces students to the politics of neighbouring Pacific Island nations, with a special focus on Melanesia and the countries of the so-called “Arc of Responsibility” (Timor-Leste, PNG, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu), along with Fiji. Students will gain an understanding of key historical, political and institutional developments in the post-independence politics of Australia’s nearest neighbours. Political issues in the regions of West Papua, Bougainville and New Caledonia will also be examined
 
After successfully completing this unit, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of key concepts in Political Science

2. Investigate and critically analyse the major events, issues and institutions in Pacific nations

3. Appreciate the history and contemporary agenda of nation and state building in post-independence Pacific nations

4. Debate the regional and international relations of the Pacific countries

5. Consider the key political and policy challenges in Pacific nations

6. Understand how to make a systematic comparison of political regimes