The Asia Association for Global Studies (AAGS) is pleased to invite members and non-members interested in global issues to attend its Annual Research Forum, an event which showcases recent research by AAGS members. The details of this year¡¯s Forum are as follows:

Title: ¡°The Utility of Peacekeeping Operations: The Case of Japan and the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).¡±

Presenter: Garren Mulloy (Faculty of International Relations, Daito Bunka University)

Abstract: While the popular conception of Japanese Peacekeeping Operations (PKO) has been of high media profile contrasted with minimal commitment, the PKO activities of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) have illustrated both far greater depths of commitment and more ingenious contributions to peace operations than is widely assumed. The 1990s provided a steep learning curve for the JSDF that each Force (Ground, Maritime, and Air) met with a different degree of preparation and commitment. The experiences of the 1990s greatly affected the ability of each Force to meet the new security challenges that faced them in the post-9/11 environment. This presentation will discuss not only the conduct of JSDF PKO, but also how these experiences affected the later execution of a wide range of humanitarian aid, disaster relief, anti-terrorism support, and post-conflict peace-building missions. It also examines the role of JSDF missions in national policy, and whether they are ¡®real¡¯ contributions to the preservation of international security, or mere ¡®window dressing¡¯ opportunities for a Japanese government set upon acquiring a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Date: Saturday, September 22, 2007, 11am - 12.30pm

Place: Toshokan Hall, Kwansei Gakuin University (Uegahara Campus), Nishinomiya, Japan

Directions: Please visit http://asia-globalstudies.org/forumdirections

Fee: Members (free); non-members (500 yen)

Following the presentation, interested participants are invited to have an informal lunch at the ¡°Poplar Restaurant¡± at Kwansei Gakuin University.

Note: To ensure the event runs smoothly, please notify the organizers if you plan to attend. If you are a non-member and wish to reserve a seat, after notifying the organizers at hpl@kwansei.ac.jp please send 500 yen to the following bank account:

Bank Information: Mitsubishi-Tokyo UFJ Bank, Doujima Branch
Savings Account no.: 5340527
Account holder: Asia Association for Global Studies ('Global Studies Gakkai' in Romaji)
Contact: LIEDERBACH, Hans Peter

Fees will also be accepted on site, but note that as seating is limited it is recommended that reservations be made in advance to avoid disappointment. If you would like to become a member or renew your membership dues, the annual dues are 2,500 yen and can also be submitted to the above bank account. For further information about membership and the association please check http://asia-globalstudies.org