Griffith Asia Institute

What happens to people's health when climate change forces them to move—or prevents them from moving?

As sea levels rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, climate mobility is emerging as one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time.

Andreas Neef explores a new interdisciplinary research agenda examining the links between climate change, mobility and health. The research highlights the need for stronger legal protections, more resilient healthcare systems, and policies that place affected communities at the centre of decision-making.

🔗 https://ow.ly/Utfs50ZvHSg

How do we prepare graduates for an increasingly interconnected Indo-Pacific?

The answer extends well beyond the classroom.

The award-winning Griffith Asia Business Internship (GABI) program has enabled since 2019 more than 185 students to undertake professional internships across the Asia-Pacific, gaining invaluable international experience while building Australia's future Asia capability.

In this latest Griffith Asia Insights article, Dr Andrea Haefner explores how internships in Japan and South Korea are equipping students with the cross-cultural skills, professional networks and global perspective needed to thrive in international careers.

From finance and technology to sustainability, hospitality and entrepreneurship, Griffith students are contributing to organisations across Northeast Asia while developing the confidence and adaptability to succeed in an increasingly global workforce.

Read how these transformative experiences are shaping the next generation of globally minded professionals and strengthening Australia's engagement with two of its most important regional partners.

🔗https://ow.ly/YIpJ50Zn9uN

Recording now available: Perspectives:Asia "Who is the Modern Tyrant?" with Professor Haig Patapan

What distinguishes modern authoritarian leaders from the tyrants of the past? How are contemporary democracies being challenged by increasingly powerful illiberal states?

In this thought-provoking Perspectives Asia lecture, Griffith University Professor Haig Patapan explores the nature of modern authoritarian leadership, drawing on themes from his latest book, The Modern Tyrant: Authoritarian Leadership in Theory and Practice. The lecture examines how modern tyrants differ from their historical counterparts through the influence of nationalism, religion and ideology, the blending of authoritarian and democratic institutions, and the use of technology and propaganda to enhance control.

Watch the recording and gain fresh insights into one of the most pressing political challenges of our time.

🔗https://ow.ly/acxc50Zn9FG

🇯🇵✈️ Ever thought about studying in Japan?

For Griffith University student Yadan Noerdin, participating in the Sustainability Transformation Program (SXIP) was much more than an overseas study trip. It was an opportunity to work alongside Japanese students, explore real-world sustainability challenges, experience Japanese culture firsthand, and gain insights that could shape his future career.

Funded by the Japanese Government, SXIP brings Griffith students to Yokohama National University to collaborate on sustainability-focused projects, visit industry partners and engage with academics from across disciplines. From cutting-edge discussions about energy and technology to exploring Tokyo's vibrant culture, the experience offers a unique perspective on how global challenges are being tackled around the world.

Yadan's biggest takeaway?

💡 "The lesson for Australia is that technology has the power to reshape entire economies. Countries need to be ready to innovate, adapt and pivot when technologies evolve."

Interested in international opportunities, sustainability, business or Japan? Read Yadan's story and discover how experiences like SXIP can broaden your horizons and build skills for a global future.

🔗 https://ow.ly/nk1750ZlfYq

🌏 What's shaping Southeast Asia today?

Our latest Griffith Asia-Pacific Insights newsletter brings together fresh expert analysis on some of the region's most important issues—from justice for atrocities in Myanmar and the future of the Belt and Road Initiative to digital inclusion, climate security, Bangladesh's political transition and more.

Plus, discover the latest publications, media appearances, events and achievements from Griffith Asia Institute.

🔗https://ow.ly/sGYy50Zi0rI

Missed our latest Perspectives lecture with Professor Nicholas Farrelly?

The recording is now available to watch online. In this timely discussion, Professor Farrelly explored Australia’s evolving relationships with Southeast Asia and what strategic adjustments may be needed for the decades ahead. From diplomacy and trade to education and regional engagement, the lecture examined the opportunities and challenges shaping Australia’s role in the Indo-Pacific.

Watch the recording here: https://ow.ly/uOqm50Z23ag

Presented by Griffith Asia Institute and QAGOMA.

🔎How should we rethink China—through capability, or intent?
🔎What does Myanmar’s leadership reshuffle signal for regional stability?
🔎And what can Papua New Guinea’s tech trajectory tell us about development pathways?

Big questions. Fresh perspectives. Regional insight that matters.

The April edition of Griffith Asia-Pacific Insights is here—exploring how we understand China, shifting power dynamics in Myanmar, and what Papua New Guinea’s tech ambitions reveal about development in the Pacific.

Plus: expert commentary on defence strategy, global politics, and emerging security challenges, alongside upcoming events and the latest research from our network.

🔗 https://ow.ly/3vRY50YQT3I

Australia’s Southeast Asia Strategy: what comes next?

Australia’s relationships across Southeast Asia are deep, diverse and active — but what kind of strategy will be needed for the decades ahead?

Join us for an evening public lecture with Professor Nicholas Farrelly, Pro Vice‑Chancellor (Arts and Society) at the University of Tasmania, as he explores how Australia can respond to Southeast Asia’s fast‑changing and increasingly competitive environment, and what this means for future policy, partnerships and regional engagement.

📅 Thursday 14 May 2026
🕕 6:00–7:00pm (doors open at 5:30pm)
📍 Cinema B, Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane (in-person only)

🎟️ Free event - Register now: https://events.griffith.edu.au/XYRKXe

This event is part of the Perspectives: Asia series, presented by the Griffith Asia Institute, with Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art

🎓 G*I Seminar: Australia–China Relations

The Griffith Asia Institute recently hosted a highly engaging seminar by Emeritus Professor Colin Mackerras, Australia–China Relations: An Update.

Drawing on decades of expertise, Professor Mackerras examined the evolving relationship through the lens of geopolitics, domestic politics, and the growing focus on security, including the impact of AUKUS. The discussion highlighted a relationship that remains broadly stable, but uneven and challenging to rebuild in key areas.

Read the article here: https://blogs.griffith.edu.au/asiainsights/emeritus-professor-colin-mackerras-delivers-highly-successful-seminar-on-australia-china-relations/

What happens when big tech ambition meets real-world constraints?

In Papua New Guinea, the push for AI and digital transformation is raising important questions. In this new blog, Sean Jacobs compares today’s tech aspirations to the “cargo cults” of the past—highlighting the risks of chasing innovation without the basics in place.

From connectivity challenges to the pause on Starlink, the article explores why strong foundations—like infrastructure and governance—matter more than ever.

It’s a fascinating and accessible read on technology, development, and the Pacific.

Read more and share your thoughts. 👉 https://ow.ly/Ct7T50YJ7YX