The book by dr hab., prof of UL Karol Żakowski (Department of Asian Studies, Faculty of International and Political Studies, UL) entitled Gradual Institutional Change in Japan. Kantei Leadership under the Abe Administration describes institutional reforms introduced by the prime Minister Abe Shinzō during his second term of office over the years 2012-2020. It analyses evolution of the role of actors in the decision-making process in Japan, such as: bureaucrats and fractions in the Liberal Democratic Party. The author proves that the position of the prime minister has been strengthened thanks to the creative use of the existing decision-making bodies and creation of new bodies, such as the National Security Council or the Cabinet Bureau of Personnel Affairs.
The book by dr hab, prof of UL Dominik Mierzejewski (chair at the Center for Asian Affairs CAA, Department of Asian Studies, Faculty of International and Political Studies, UL) entitled China's Provinces and the Belt and Road Initiative is an analysis of the internal dynamics of the relationship between the central government and provincial authorities in relation to the concept of Belt and Road. It discusses theoretical aspects of the functioning of the Chinese political system, with particular emphasis on the role of provinces in Chinese foreign policy. It is often that these are the provincial authorities that initiate the policy of the Chinese state, seeing the government in Beijing as the patron of their own interests. This is clearly demonstrated by the case studies discussed in the book, such as the role of the Sichuan, Guangdong and Heilongjiang provinces. The study by prof. Mierzejewski is recommended by: prof. Zhao Quansheng (American University), dr Tim Summers (Chinese University of Hong Kong) and prof. Sean Golden (Autonomous University of Barcelona).
PODCASTS OF THE CENTER FOR ASIAN AFFAIRS, UL - click
Center for Asian Affairs (CAA), UL is the first university think-tank in Poland, dealing with the issues of East Asia. Its establishment is related to growing economic and political importance of Asia and dynamically developing cooperation between Poland and Asian partners. It is a response to the need for Poland to actively participate in shaping the EU's policy towards Asian countries. CAA works to strengthen the potential of Polish voivodships, cities, business environment institutions and Polish enterprises in the development of contacts with regions, cities and business in Asia.
The team of the Center for Asian Affairs includes specialists with very good substantive preparation and extensive practical experience combined with knowledge of Asian languages. They cooperate with business and political practitioners who are actively involved in shaping relations with Asian entities. The Programme Council, which brings together recognized researchers, diplomats and business practitioners operating actively in Asia constitutes the indispensable support for the CAA.
Source: CAA, UL
Edit: Promotion Centre, UL