Explorations: Call for Papers Deadline Extended

Theme: “Seas, Oceans, Rivers, and Springs: Perspectives on Water in the Study of Southeast Asia”

Deadline Extended: February 18, 2017!

More information: https://www.cseashawaii.org/students/explorations/papers/

Constituting more than 70% of the area of Southeast Asia, water has long played a fundamental role in shaping the history, culture, politics, and development of the region. Monsoon rains influenced agricultural practices and determined migrations. Maritime trade routes attracted both local and foreign merchants, while kingdoms and empires sought control over strategic waterways and port cities to project their power over global commerce. For coastal communities, the seas and rivers continue to provide livelihoods and connections to the broader world. In recent years, issues relating to water security, rising sea levels, devastating floods, and maritime border disputes have dominated news stories about Southeast Asia. These issues, trends, and phenomena invite scholars to explore the multitude of ways that water influences and helps define Southeast Asia in every field of study.

Explorations is looking for graduate student papers that bring water, in all of its forms, to the forefront of Southeast Asian Studies. We are particularly interested in papers that examine the role of water in Southeast Asian societies or analyze and critique water-related policies and trends. In raising these questions, this journal seeks to consider the possibilities of using the water perspective in studying Southeast Asia. We encourage submissions from all fields of study, topics, and time periods.

Possible topics (but not limited to) to explore:

• The spiritual significance of water and its use in religious ceremonies and cleansing rituals
• Traditions, customs, and beliefs of seafaring and coastal communities in both historical and contemporary contexts
• Water security and disputes at both the local and national level
• Impact of monsoons and flooding on the major urban areas of Southeast Asia (Jakarta, Manila, Bangkok, etc…)
• Modification and management of water bodies (dams, canals, reservoirs, etc…)
• Challenges of climate change and rising sea levels in coastal regions
• Preservation of marine ecosystems
• Global and regional expectations of expanding maritime trade in Southeast Asia
• Maritime border disputes

For more information, please see https://www.cseashawaii.org/students/explorations/papers/