Geo-economics & Geopolitics Network

The Geoeconomics and Geopolitics Network is a Research Network of The Irish Economic Association (IEA).To foster collaboration and help develop the research ecosystem for Irish economists, the Irish Economic Association (IEA) has established a mechanism of thematic networks whereby IEA members (institutional, individual, corporate) can establish thematic research networks. These networks aim to foster debate, discussion, and research collaborations across the discipline in Ireland.

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Network Aims and Objectives

The Geo-economics and Geopolitics network leading objective is to integrate novel contributions and foster collaboration between early career researchers, practitioners, doctoral students, postgraduate and undergraduate students who will bring critical and reflective insights into the pressing issues emerging due to our changing political and economic landscape. At the centre of the debate, we identify the significance of Education, Economic Activity and the Role of Industrial Policy, the implications of corporate social responsibility and how they should be considered in the context of the three Pillars of Sustainability: Environment, Society and Economics. The research network will offer a multidimensional framework of scientific and academic research to understand and analyse the complex interplay between economic factors, political dynamics, and the pressing need for sustainability on a global scale. The network will pay special attention to advancing scholarly research focusing on the current dilemma that global economies face as they engage in the race for sustainable development, which challenges our contemporary understanding of economic growth and development and the economic connection to other disciplines. The field of international relations plays a prominent role as we bring together geoeconomics, geopolitics, and globalisation; these three distinct areas are interconnected, and the connection between them will help us shed some light on the complexities associated with sustainability and its paramount implications.

Network Activities

1. Collaborative Research Projects: Organising joint research projects involving young researchers, early career researchers, practitioners, and doctoral students to investigate pressing issues related to changing political and economic landscapes, focusing on the development of human talent, corporate social responsibility, and their intersection with sustainability.

2. Interdisciplinary Workshops and Conferences: Hosting interdisciplinary workshops and conferences to facilitate dialogue and knowledge exchange among scholars and practitioners from various fields, including economics, political science, environmental studies, and international relations.

3. Publication of Research Papers: Encouraging the publication of research papers that provide critical insights into the complex interplay between economic factors, political dynamics, and sustainability on a global scale. This include academic journals, book chapters, working papers, conference proceedings, and policy briefs.

4. Policy Advocacy and Recommendations: Develop policy recommendations based on research findings to address the challenges faced by global economies in pursuing sustainable development. This involves engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to advocate for evidence-based policies.

5. Educational Initiatives: Creating educational materials and resources to raise awareness and build capacity among students, professionals, and policymakers on the importance of integrating sustainability principles into economic and political decision-making processes.

6. Online Platforms and Knowledge Sharing: Establishing online platforms and networks for sharing research findings, best practices, and resources related to sustainability, economics, and international relations, fostering collaboration and knowledge dissemination on a global scale.

Benefits of Joining the Network

a) Innovative and Critical Thinking: By integrating novel contributions and fostering collaboration, the network can generate policy responses to pressing issues arising from changing political and economic landscapes. This can lead to new insights and approaches to address sustainability challenges.

b) Knowledge Exchange and Networking: Through interdisciplinary workshops, conferences, and online platforms, researchers and practitioners from various fields can exchange knowledge and build networks at the international level.

c) Policy Impact: The development of policy recommendations based on research findings can have a tangible impact on policymaking.

d) Capacity Building: Educational initiatives to raise awareness and build capacity among students, professionals, and policymakers can contribute to building a more sustainable future economic system and leadership.

All contributions and ideas to participate in our events and activities are very welcome.

UNITAR Strategic Partnership

UNITAR Doctoral Programme

The strategic partnership between Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) represents a significant advancement in the space of higher education and global collaborative research. This collaboration is anchored in a shared commitment to fostering innovative, dynamic research that addresses the pressing challenges of our time, particularly within the increasingly complex and volatile geoeconomic and geopolitical landscape. TU Dublin and UNITAR have launched a pioneering doctoral program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and influence global developments. The program is structured around five critical themes, each addressing key issues at the intersection of geopolitics, geo-economics, global governance and education.

A. The theme of Alternative Pedagogies to Change the Higher Education Landscape explores new educational paradigms, emphasising the need for transformative approaches that can adapt to and shape the future of higher education globally.

Visit UNITAR website for further details on the Pedagogy and Higher Education Programme

B. Maritime Security and Port Governance explores the crucial aspects of safeguarding global trade routes and ensuring the efficient and secure operation of ports, which are vital hubs in the global economy.

Visit UNITAR website for further details on the Maritime Security Programme

C. The focus on Peace Studies and the Economic Dimension of Extractive Industries seeks to understand and mitigate the conflicts often associated with resource extraction, emphasizing sustainable practices that benefit both local communities and the global market.

Visit UNITAR website for further details on the Peace Studies Programme

D. Geoeconomics and Geopolitics: Development in a Shifting Balance of Power Landscape examines the evolving global power dynamics, providing insights into how nations can navigate these changes to foster development and stability.

Visit UNITAR website for further details on the Geo-economics and Geopolitics Programme

E. Finally, the theme of The International Political Economy Through the Lens of Geoeconomics and Geopolitics offers a comprehensive analysis of the global economy, emphasising the interconnectedness of political and economic forces in shaping the world order.

Visit UNITAR website for further details on the International Political Economy

International Collaborations

GEOCONDAH The Geopolitics, Conflict, and Human Rights (GEOCONDAH) is a dynamic and active group whose members strive to achieve international excellence and knowledge transfer that reaches beyond the university sphere.

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AGBAR Chair of International Studies in Institutional Communication for Development and Sustainable Growth.

This Chair was born from UPF-BSM and the Agbar Group working together to promote the study and knowledge about the future of the 2030 Agenda and the field of sustainability. The aim is to promote research and dissemination of the study of institutional communication for sustainable development and growth integrated into the implementation of the objectives of the 2030 Agenda.