AEH Thematic Networks

Overview

The ASEF supported four ASEM Education Thematic Networks from 2007 to 2009:

• Peace And Conflict Studies (PCS)
• Studies Of Regionalism In The ASEM Context (RASEM)
• Human Security (HS)
• Intellectual Property Management (IP-Net)

These networks are groupings of universities and research centres interested in developing Asia-Europe co-operation in specific academic fields. Their objectives are to:

• Develop centres of excellence in a field of study, identified to be of importance to Asia-Europe relations.
• Cultivate and exchange best practices in research and teaching.
• Form institutional partnerships among members that encourage academic mobility and a higher standard of quality in education.

The networks organise at least one academic conference or forum per year for its members and related practitioners. They also conduct seminars and lectures, publish research outcomes, and engage in other academic co-operation initiatives with sponsorships from member institutions, government ministries, and private companies.

Since their establishment, the networks have expanded their funding sources and become less dependent on the ASEF for financial support. These efforts have led to greater organisational sustainability and built wider ownership amongst the different stakeholders. Currently the ASEF continues to support the networks by disseminating their information and promoting their activities.