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Singapore's secret base of international relations: How is RSIS shaping Asia-Pacific security?
The S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) in Singapore is an autonomous postgraduate school and policy-oriented think tank affiliated to Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Founded in 1996 as the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies (IDSS), the school has grown into a leader in international studies in Asia. RSIS was established to support policymakers in developing comprehensive responses in areas of strategic thinking that are relevant to Singapore’s interests.
RSIS's research, teaching and networking objectives are to help policymakers develop comprehensive approaches to strategic thinking.
After RSIS was formally established in 2007, IDSS still exists as an institute focused on security studies and as an integral part of the school. The school includes many centers such as the Institute of Defense and Strategic Studies (IDSS), the International Center for Political Violence and Terrorism (ICPVTR), and the Center for Multilateralism (CMS).
Teaching and research directions
RSIS offers several master's degree programs focused on professional practice, strategic analysis, and academic depth in the Indo-Pacific region. In addition, it has launched a dual degree programme, allowing students to study between the University of Warwick in the UK and RSIS in order to gain a broader international perspective and experience.
The school's master's degree programmes are designed for professionals from Singapore and overseas, covering four major professional areas including strategic studies and international relations.
In the research field, RSIS's research covers four interrelated areas: Asia-Pacific security, conflict and non-traditional security, international political economy, and national and regional studies. These research results are often shared with the international security policy community and published through seminars, conferences and academic journals.
Network and Practice
RSIS also hosts workshops, seminars and symposiums on current and historically relevant issues in international relations and security developments. Its activities include the Asia-Pacific Programme for Senior Military Officers (APPSMO) and the Asia-Pacific Programme for Security Officials (APPSNO), as well as the Singapore Global Dialogue.
RSIS actively participates in academic conferences and security dialogues in the Asia-Pacific region, and is committed to promoting cooperation and understanding in the region.
Distinguished Alumni
The school's alumni include many political celebrities, including the two sons of former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and other important leaders from different countries. The influence of these alumni, to a certain extent, reflects RSIS's success in cultivating international leadership talents.
Conclusion
As an important think tank in Singapore, RSIS has had a profound impact on the development of the Asia-Pacific security situation through education and research. As the international security environment changes, how can RSIS continue to exert its influence in this area and respond to important challenges of discontinuity?
