This is a comparative politics subject. It first introduces students to a variety of analytical approaches to understanding politics in the developing world. It will then compare important political practices and institutions of various countries, including structures of government, military in politics, bureaucratic politics, economic development, political parties and participation, civil society and democratisation, political violence and opposition and regional organisations, such as ASEAN and APEC. Empirically, the subject will focus on the Asia-Pacific region, a region of immense political, economic and strategic importance to Australia, but students will be given the opportunity to work on other parts of the developing world, such as Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe.