Krakowskie Studia Międzynarodowe / Krakow International Studies

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Journal: Krakowskie Studia Międzynarodowe / Krakow International Studies

Digital transformation in international relations: new challenges, old strategies?

Nezir Akyeşilmen

Language: EN | Published: 31-12-2024 | Abstract | 107–130

Digitalization has been profoundly affecting every aspect of life for the last three decades including international relations. This study investigates the transformative effects of digitalization on both the discipline of International Relations (IR) and the practice of IR. Digitalization has driven significant transformations across various domains, including from conflict to peace, from diplomacy to security and from human rights to the environment. This study seeks to answer the question of how digitalization has reshaped traditional paradigm of international relations? Adopting a qualitative research methodology, including a comprehensive literature review, also incorporates the Constructivist IR theory, which emphasizes the changes in actor behaviors occur as norms evolve. The finding reveals a dual impact: While cyber-attacks, especially on critical infrastructures pose threats to national and international security, cyber diplomacy enhances environmental protection and cooperation among global actors. This duality clearly demonstrates how complex and complicated the relationship is between the challenges and opportunities brought about by the digital age in international relations.

2024-12-31



Journal: Krakowskie Studia Międzynarodowe / Krakow International Studies

Societal perceptions of the relationship between the Republic of Korea and Japan in South Korea and Japan

Katarzyna Gajda

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2025 | Abstract | 43–64

The aim of this study was to identify and analyze differences in the perception of mutual relations between the Republic of Korea and Japan among citizens of both countries in the years 2019–2023. Based on available public opinion reports, a detailed assessment was conducted of the perception of the state of Korean-Japanese relations, their social significance, and the image of the partner country and its leader. The study used a comparative analysis method to assess the evolution of selected aspects of these relations over time. The results of the analysis indicate an overall improvement in the perception of mutual relations and political leaders in both countries during the period analyzed. At the same time, discrepancies were observed in the perception of the importance of bilateral relations and the impression made by the partner country: while there was an improvement in these areas in Japan, a deterioration was noted in the Republic of Korea. The results obtained allow us to conclude that there is an asymmetry in the perception of Korean-Japanese relations and indicate the need to take these differences into account in analyses of international politics and public diplomacy.

2025-12-31



Journal: Krakowskie Studia Międzynarodowe / Krakow International Studies

Between War and Settlement: The United States and China in Trade Negotiations

Rett R. Ludwikowski , Mark R. Ludwikowski

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2025 | Abstract | 113–142

This article examines the conflicts and negotiations leading to the development and conclusion of trade agreements between the United States and China. This issue has a long history, dating back to the period when China was still a non-market economy engaged in disputes with market economy countries belonging to the globalist network of international organizations. Therefore, the authors utilize a historical-comparative methodology in this study.
The article consists of three main parts, the first of which is devoted to an analysis of thematic issues from the period preceding China’s accession to the WTO. Part two focuses on U.S.-China relations during Donald Trump’s first term and the early part of his second term as president. It focuses on the issue of subsidies used by non-market economies or those in transition, as well as the parallel application of countervailing and anti-dumping duties in relations with these countries. It also examines U.S.-China monetary disputes and disputes over freedom of communication, including internet freedom. The final part focuses on the ongoing negotiations leading to the development and conclusion of a trade agreement between the United States and China in the last week of June 2025. While the details of the agreement are not yet fully known, the agreement was undoubtedly expected to be a breakthrough in international trade relations. For a time, the agreement’s significance was undermined by the threat of tariffs on the People’s Republic of China for purchasing Russian oil. The recurring conflict between the two powers was highlighted by the media during the exchange of accusations between delegations of both countries in Alaska in parallel with President Donald Trump’s meeting with Wladimir Putin.

2025-12-31



Journal: Krakowskie Studia Międzynarodowe / Krakow International Studies

The Confucius Institute in Canada: Social and Political Implications of Chinese Influence

Adrian Błoch

Language: PL | Published: 31-12-2024 | Abstract | 131–150

The Confucius Institute of Canada, which officially promotes Chinese language and culture, is raising growing concerns over its suspected role in spreading Chinese propaganda and restricting academic freedom by using financial issues to enforce selfcensorship. In addition, there are concerns that the institute’s activities may be used for intelligence purposes, especially in the context of research into strategically important technologies, as reported by Canadian intelligence. Canadian authorities are taking steps to limit the Confucius Institute’s influence, with new regulations on academic cooperation limiting financial support for research projects affiliated with the institute. Nevertheless, the institute continues to operate, suggesting the need for further, firmer steps at the federal and provincial levels to protect Canada’s national interests.

2024-12-31