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Click on the map to see the points of conflict
This site examines recent conflicts over history in Northeast Asia, and explores possible paths towards reconciliation. The site is based at the Australian National University, and is created by a group of academic researchers whose names can be found on our introductory page. Some of the site’s creators are based outside the Northeast Asian region, and we do not seek to provide any simple answers to these, often complex, controversies.
Our aim is to provide a range of historical and contemporary materials which can encourage informed exchanges of ideas, and promote imaginative resolutions to conflict. We invite visitors to look carefully at arguments on both sides of the debates, and at the ideas of those who have suggested alternative approaches. As you look at the documents and images here, ask yourself: who produced these, and why? What is the intended audience?
Imagine yourself reading them from a variety of different perspectives: as a Chinese person, a Japanese person, a Korean (from North or South), a Mongolian, an American or Iranian, German or Kenyan. The materials presented here are created by people with many differing viewpoints. Some include strong nationalist statements, which you may find disturbing. The creators of this site do not endorse the contents of the primary materials exhibited here.
But by bringing together material from a variety of differing perspectives we hope to strengthen the basis for dialogue and understanding. Northeast Asia today is in a phase of profound change, when regional cooperation is more essential than ever.
ASIA BEYOND CONFLICT WORKSHOP
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY (1-3 JULY 2009)
At a time when controversies over history have become a major source of conflict between the countries of East Asia (particularly between China, Japan and the two Koreas) this workshop examines how contrasting views of history have come to play such a central role in international friction within the region, and considers means of promoting regional historical reconciliation. Presentations and discussions will explore the way in which diverse media are used by scholars, grassroots movements and others to promote nationalist interpretations of history or messages of historical reconciliation.
The relationship between Japan, China and Korea is of central importance to the future stability of our region, and of particular political and economic importance to Australia. This workshop seeks to promote a deeper understanding of current tensions in the relationship between these countries, and to contribute to the practical search for resolutions to cultural and ideological dimensions of this conflict…
This workshop is free and open to the public audience.
Inquiries by E-mail: yasuko.kobayashi@anu.edu.au
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