Study module

After the completion of the course, students are able to:
- Comprehend the central and complex role of politics in China
- Understand the paradox of China; why the party is at the same time omnipotent, but in many cases impotent
- Have knowledge of Chinese politics, political system, institutions.
- Understand, analyze and form an understanding of the causes and consequences of China’s rapid globalization.
- Discern political motivations and consequences of China’s globalization and its impact on the Arctic regions.

The course consists of two overlapping sections: an introduction to the political system of China and China as a global actor with a focus on the Arctic regions. Understanding the politics and political system of China is the essential tool to understanding China’s globalization strive and its regional implications in the Artic regions. In introducing the political system of China, the course provides an overview of the political history, structure, central-regional relations, factional politics within the Communist Party and recent political development in China. This view provides a solid basis for analyzing one of the most significant changes in the world—China’s changing role in the world. During the last decade China has become increasingly active in seeking resources, markets, talents and political influence in all corners of the world including the Arctic region. The course will provide an analytical view of the role of the Party and other institutional actors in this process. During the course, we will study the political motivation of the “going-out” strategy of Chinese companies and how Beijing is consequently reshaping the global order. We will then compare these processes with increasing Chinese activities in the Arctic region and identify various actors and processes how Beijing and Chinese companies are acting in the Artic regions.

No previous studies required.

It is required to attend and pass all parts of the course to receive a final course grade.

The study material of the course consists of journal articles and book chapters that will be delivered to students before the course will begin.

Grades 1-5/fail
The lecturer(s) will inform the evaluation method of the course.

Professor Matti Nojonen, University of Lapland

Lecturer(s)
University lecturer Mikael Mattlin, University of Turku
University lecturer Tapio Nykänen, University of Lapland (visiting lecturer)
Professor Matti Nojonen, University of Lapland (visiting lecturer)