"Globalization" is most commonly understood to refer to the phenomenon of ever increasing movements of information, goods, services and people throughout the world. At the same time as these movements lead to an integration or interdependence of economies and societies on a global scale, however, "regions" have come (back?) into focus. While on the one hand taking part in global exchanges through their work, by travelling or by purchasing goods that were produced in a different part of the world, people on the other hand continue to identify with the country or region in which they were born or where they live. At the same time, on a more formal level, governments, civil society actors and businesses form alliances on a regional level to promote cooperation within the region and to increase their clout vis-a-vis other regions. In this context, the seminar will explore the role that regions play in present day international governance. In doing so, the seminar will look not only at formal regional integration processes, such as the development of the European Union, but also at less formalized modes of regional cooperation in the areas of conflict resolution and environmental protection. How do regions fit into the framework of global governance provided by the United Nations? What is Japan's approach to regional cooperation initiatives in Asia and elsewhere? Why has a strong system of regional integration developed in Europe, but not in Asia? If there is no formal regional institution in place, what other modes of cooperation exist to solve regional conflicts and regional environmental problems? How does regional cooperation work in a non-governmental organization? These questions will be addressed in a series of lectures, plenary and group discussions. Lecturers will include scholars and practitioners from Japan and abroad who will not only deliver their presentations, but also engage in active exchange with the participants throughout the four-day seminar.

　This four-day seminar brings together distinguished scholars and practitioners from both Japan and abroad who will give lectures as well as engage in an active exchange with the participants. The format will consist of keynote speeches, lectures and group discussions. We welcome applications from those throughout Japan who are interested in issues of global concern or are pursuing international or local community service-based careers. The opening ceremony and keynote lectures will be open to the general public on the first day.

　If you are interested in issues of global concern or plan to pursue an international career or a career in service for your local community, the seminar will give you an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge and to sharpen your analytical and discourse skills through an active dialogue with fellow participants, lecturers and the scholars involved in the seminar. We welcome applications from the Hokuriku region and from all over Japan.