Research Proposal: U.S./Philippines Relations

Research Question

Can the United States continue successful diplomatic relations with the Philippines when their leader is seeking out more involved ties with Russia and China?

Research Thesis

In working with the changing structure of the Philippines the United States must not overreact to the bravado of newly elected President Duterte. Contrary to fears inherent in U.S. position and policy a strong Asia does not mean a weakened West. American interests could be better informed by having more economically robust neighbors, and the U.S. should stop heightening tensions through populating an “us vs. them” attitude. Currently, “Mistrust, uncertainty, and widespread military modernization represent mutually reinforcing trends that help explain the high degree of political and military fragmentation in Asia” (Jackson, 2016, p. 1). This emotional situation is based on a long history of un-cooperation which is based on American aggression, competition, and the fundamental intolerance of other diverse cultures which may threaten U.S. supremacy.

These ideas are no longer relevant in today’s globalized world, and the changes occurring in the power structure of international relations need not be viewed as a threat. The simple fact is, “Southeast Asia is at the centre of the shift in gravity within the geopolitically important Indo-Pacific region and is increasingly becoming a locus for strategic competition between the United States and China” (Gill, Goh, Huang & Medeiros, 2016, p. 1). When viewed without fear and xenophobic loathing this change can be seen as both challenge and opportunity for the rest of the world to balance out some of the influence the U.S. has wielded. 

Research Importance

This research is very important due to the highly polarized nature of the contemporary political commentary. There are not many voices being heard in America today asking the nation not be threatened by the strength, growth, and collaboration of those the U.S. views as threats. Into this charged atmosphere this research will provide a more grounded and level headed position. Greater empathy and objectivity is needed from the United States to see the needs of the nation’s different and less strong than herself. 

After all, one of the reasons there is such international tension over this issue is because of American intolerance. This change is still occurring slowly, as “Nonetheless, there are growing signs that the century-old alliance is heading into a ‘new normal,’ wherein bilateral ties are strong but no longer as special and sacrosanct as before” (Heydarian, 2016). This need not be a reason for concern, but the U.S. could rather look how it could assist the Philippines to become a stronger nation as radicalization is a response to the perceived inflexibility of the stronger aggressor (Samuel, 2016). Also, it must be looked at the fact that Duterte was elected in an international climate that is terrified of Donald Trump becoming president. Since Duterte is already acting like Trump in some ways this may offer a much-needed reflection for America.

Research Approach

This research will be done through an extensive literature review of the issue at hand, its geopolitical context, and the impact successful relations will have on international economics and politics. Much has been and is continuing to be written about the impact of U.S. international relations on global security and economic competition/collaboration (Glaser & Viers, 2016). While the issue of international relations is complex and ever-changing a foundational understanding of the context at play is key in addressing the research at hand.

References

Glaser, B., & Viers, A. (2016). US-China Relations: Navigating Friction, Forging Cooperation. Comparative Connections, 18(1), 25.

Gill, B., Goh, E., Huang, C. H., & Medeiros, E. S. (2016). THE DYNAMICS OF US–CHINA–SOUTHEAST ASIA RELATIONS. Retrieved from: http://ussc.edu.au/ussc/assets/media/docs/publications/2016_DynamicsOfUSChinaSoutheastAsiaRelations.pdf

Heydarian, R.J. (2016). Can the Philippines' Duterte Stay Friendly with America? The National Interest. Retrieved from: http://nationalinterest.org/feature/can-the-philippines-duterte-stay-friendly-america-17683

Friedrichs, J. (2016). An intercultural theory of international relations: How self-worth underlies politics among nations. International Theory, 8(01), 63-96.

Jackson, V. (2016). Red Teaming the Rebalance: The Theory and Risks of US Asia Strategy. Journal of Strategic Studies, 1-24.

Samuel, T.K. (2016). Radicalization in Southeast Asia: A Selected Case Study of Dalesh in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. SEARCCT: The Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism. Retrieved from: https://www.unodc.org/documents/southeastasiaandpacific/Publications/2016/Radicalisation_SEA_2016.pdf