The economic downturn in Asia and its profound impact on B.C.'s economy illustrates the interdependence between these two regions.
A series of seminars hosted by UBC's Institute of Asian Research (IAR) on Globalization and the Transformation of Asian Societies is an example of how the institute is building important knowledge about Asia by strengthening its research contribution to the wider community.
"The immediate stimulus to organize the seminars was the economic crisis and the historic proportions of changing state organizations, increased popular participation and the dissolution of existing social categories," says Law Prof. Pitman Potter, director of the institute.
One of 15 research units in the Faculty of Graduate Studies, IAR was created in 1977 and is the leading centre in Canada for research on Asia.
The interdisciplinary institute is building on specialized research to create an interface with Asia for the UBC community.
Potter says IAR should provide information and assistance, not only to individuals formally attached to it, but also to other members of the UBC community who have projects or interests in the region.
"Faculty at the institute are an important resource for UBC, with Asian language skills, personal and professional experience in Asia, and a wealth of interdisciplinary expertise. We hope that scholars in other faculties and departments can benefit from the linkages that we have developed, and we welcome opportunities for joint research."
The institute is committed to the fundamental task of building knowledge.
"Our understanding of Asia should be sustained and strengthened to transcend short-term economic problems and should reflect the importance of our long-term ties," Potter says.
The institute is assisting with strategic planning for UBC's Asia linkages into the 21st century, says Graduate Studies Dean Frieda Granot.
"The importance of understanding Asia is undisputed," Potter says. "We are part of a dynamic community of scholars, which has contributed significantly to Canada's knowledge about Asia. Yet we face a challenging future for which we should prepare effectively by strengthening this community and its activities."
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