The Graduate School of International Peace Studies (Master's Program)

Advancing Peace Through Introducing Critical Perspectives at SIPS

Dr. Lydia Ayame Hiraide, a new faculty member at the SIPS program since fall semester 2024, brings a fresh perspective to the intellectual and academic landscape. Originally from the UK, she previously served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at SOAS University of London’s Feminist Centre for Racial Justice. With research interests spanning Political Ecology, Environmental Politics, and Gender Studies, she offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach to both teaching and research.

During her time at SIPS so far, Dr. Hiraide has been inspired by the program's international environment, where students from diverse backgrounds contribute unique perspectives to the classroom. Teaching her module on Gender and Power Relationships has been especially rewarding, as the diversity in the classroom fosters meaningful discussions on critical topics that challenge and deconstruct existing social structures.

Dr. Hiraide also shared that she has been deeply impressed by the students' clear sense of purpose and strong research interests. She recognizes a profound commitment to the ideals of peace among the SIPS students, as well as within the university’s broader environment and mission. This commitment is one of the reasons she was drawn to Soka University and the SIPS program, which she praises for its explicit commitment to aligning classroom learning with societal needs during volatile times. Dr. Hiraide values the university’s student-centered learning approach, which fosters meaningful engagement and empowers students to take ownership of their learning and apply it to real-world situations. She mentions, “Soka University’s ability to align its values to the world’s ideals offers me an exciting opportunity to contribute positively to global challenges.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Hiraide aims to enrich the SIPS community by bringing her perspectives, integrating critical race theory, and amplifying marginalized voices into her teaching and research. She is particularly excited about collaborating both within the university and internationally on projects or research that highlight often overlooked topics. She emphasizes the importance of exploring these areas in order to foster a deeper understanding of global challenges. Lastly, she encourages current and prospective SIPS students to approach ideas with openness and courage, especially when engaging with unfamiliar perspectives.

“Every student is a producer of knowledge, and each has something valuable to offer in the process of learning and the pursuit of peace.” - Dr. Hiraide

Dr. Hiraide's Signature Course: Critical Race and Gender Studies

The Critical Race and Gender Studies course taught by Dr. Hiraide examined how racism and gender discrimination manifest across different regions and historical contexts, emphasizing that while these issues can be varied in their specific forms, the exclusion and marginalization of certain groups are normalized globally. We examined historical and contemporary examples of racialized and gendered violence, such as the experiences of African Americans in the United States, the marginalization of Black communities in Brazil, and how social movements like Black Lives Matter have emerged to challenge systemic injustice and create spaces for collective action and dialogue around human rights across the globe. One of the key themes was the intersectionality between race, gender, sexuality, class, and other social categories in shaping individuals’ lived realities and institutional practices of discrimination. Having previously studied gender and leadership during my undergraduate studies, I was especially interested in deepening my understanding of gender studies and came to understand more about how these dynamics influence not only personal identities but also larger social space and political systems through this course. To analyze and untangle these systems of oppression, we engaged with a range of frameworks, including Johan Galtung’s triangle of violence, intersectionality theory, critical race theory, and other key theories.

Dr. Hiraide was very approachable and responsive to questions and opinions, creating a supportive learning environment. The classroom atmosphere was collaborative with an emphasis on sharing diverse perspectives from both faculty and students. In class, we had discussions based on assigned learning materials, encouraging critical reflection and the exchange of diverse perspectives on race, gender, and power. Students were especially encouraged to discuss racial issues from their own countries, for example, East Asia, Europe, Latin America, and other contexts, highlighting the global dimensions of race and multiculturalism. We also delivered an individual presentation on a specific topic and led part of the discussion in class. Videos and documentaries, such as Movement for Black Lives: An Ode to Freedom Summer, helped bring the theoretical concepts into real-world contexts, further grounding our understanding of the course materials.

Connecting to my academic research, I was able to deepen my understanding of how race, gender, and other social categories intersect through this course. It highlighted that identities are not fixed in a single context, as someone who is privileged in one place can also be marginalized in another. By studying movements like Black Lives Matter, I learned the importance of situating the marginalization of people within broader historical and structural frameworks rather than viewing it only as isolated incidents. While social movements in other countries may seem distant from us, they can offer important lessons and strategies that inspire local action. I was encouraged to think critically about how these approaches might be adapted to address racial and gender injustices in my own community. On a personal level, I also recognized my privilege of being in a position to question and reexamine my own stereotypes. Moving forward, I will consciously reflect on my actions through actively challenging symbolic violence in the everyday, including recognizing and resisting subtle forms of power and domination that manifest through cultural norms, language, and social practices.

(Student writeｒ: Lye Ke Yeng, Entering Class of 2023)

Bridging Global Divides Through International Cooperation and Governance

Professor Jonathan Luckhurst, a faculty member at the SIPS program since 2018. He earned his Bachelor degree in European History (1995) and a Masters degree in International Relations and European Studies (1996) from the University of East Anglia, United Kingdom. He also completed his PhD in Ideology and Discourse Analysis at the Department of Government, University of Essex in 2007. In terms of research interest, Professor Luckhurst focuses on global economic governance and the dynamics of contemporary international cooperation.

At SIPS, Professor Luckhurst teaches courses in International Political Economy, Global Economic Governance, and Global Regionalism. During his time teaching at SIPS, Professor Luckhurst points out one of the unique features of SIPS, which is a good student–faculty ratio that enables small group learning, and more opportunities for interaction between professors and students, contributing to better learning experience. He also shared that most students he encountered are highly engaged, eager to participate in discussions, share their perspectives, and listen to others as part of their learning experience. Although the SIPS program has undergone some changes in courses and faculty over the years, he feels that overall it has been meaningful experiences, with many other faculty working together for several years.

Professor Luckhurst, as the director of the Global Governance Research Center at Soka University, which he co-directs with Professor Hartmut Lenz, highlights it as an important space for research and collaboration. As part of the contribution to international relations and peace studies, he aims to develop further focus on global issues involving the G20 and other forms of international cooperation through this platform. By exploring regional dimensions, especially in Southeast Asia and East Asia, Professor Jonathan is working to create regional research projects in collaboration with colleagues from other universities and researchers, also to engage with government officials from countries from those regions. He sees these initiatives as valuable opportunities to advance understanding of relations among these countries, involve public officials in dialogue on key issues, and further enrich the contributions of the SIPS program. With that, Professor Luckhurst also appreciates that the university administration has been open to supporting new initiatives, and he finds it a supportive and stimulating environment for both teaching and research.

Lastly, Professor Luckhurst encourages current and prospective SIPS students to actively engage in class discussions, seek advice from faculty on thesis writing and reading materials, and balancing hard work with regular rest to improve productivity on learning. Specifically, he advises prospective students to be open-minded about their experiences in Japan, embracing both academic and social experiences to make the most of their time in the SIPS program.

“We are all humans in the end. There is often misunderstanding caused by fear of the other side and uncertainty between governments. My work in international cooperation and multilateralism tries to explore how international dialogue can help overcome these fears among people in different countries.”

- Professor Luckhurst

Prof. Luckhurst's Signature Course: International Political Economy

The course International Political Economy (IPE) focuses on historical shifts in political-economic thoughts, ideas, and beliefs from the late-19th century to the present, covering prewar globalization, the Bretton Woods system and its institutions, the largest economic crisis in the world, current issues and more. The studies are based on a selection of readings and material presented by Professor Jonathan Luckhurst, and also on class discussions. By the end of the course, the students are able to have a better comprehension of the origins and development of current trends in political-economic policies.

Throughout the semester, the students have to prepare a few presentations on relevant readings about topics that are being taught. There are no exams, but students have to submit two essays around 2,000 words each about complex questions carefully elaborated by the professor. The essay writing demands more than writing skills, it also develops our research abilities and our critical thinking about political-economic events related to the period covered by the course content. The professor’s correction is thorough and points to areas where students can improve their writing and their understanding on the theme.

The IPE course was particularly important for me to better understand in a chronological way the global political-economic events and how they impacted my own country. It is valuable to understand how these events do influence diverse areas beyond the political-economic scope, affecting, directly or indirectly, social phenomena and personal life. I am particularly interested in the changing of gender roles in policy-making and the course helped me to have a wider view on the matter, providing some specific readings and discussions on the theme. Thinking about SIPS purposes, it is not possible to propose means for peace without a general understanding of the political-economic structure that we live in.

(Student writer: Ana Maria Bori, Entering Class of 2021)

Bridging Theory and Practice in Peacebuilding Through Real-World Conflict Studies

Professor Nikolas Emmanuel, a faculty member and founding member of the SIPS program at Soka University since its establishment in 2018. He is an accomplished scholar in the field of political science, possessing a rich international academic background with extensive teaching and researching experience across multiple countries. He began his academic journey with a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego. He went on to earn an M.Phil. in Political Science and African Studies from Sciences Po-Bordeaux in France, and later completed his Ph.D. in Political Science at the University of California, Davis. Before joining Soka University in Japan, Professor Emmanuel also held academic positions at a number of institutions, including the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, Oklahoma State University, and Connecticut College in the United States.

Professor Emmanuel has spent his life in diverse cultural and academic environments, an experience that deeply shapes his teaching and worldview. At SIPS, he teaches courses on Statebuilding in Africa, Civil Wars and Peace Processes, and Ethnic Conflict and Reconciliation. He also mentors his students on master's thesis through research-driven and small group seminars. During Professor Emmanuel’s time teaching at SIPS, he values the rich exchange of perspectives that comes from working with students from varied cultural and personal backgrounds. He finds that this diversity fosters deeper, more meaningful classroom discussions and encourages him to remain reflective and adaptive as an educator. Professor Emmanuel also highlights the strong sense of collaboration and trust among both academic colleagues in SIPS and administrative staff, which allows for a positive and supportive work environment.

As a senior scholar at Soka University and SIPS, Professor Nikolas consistently focuses on academic research related to incentive strategies used by external actors in conflict resolution and post-war statebuilding, with a primary emphasis on African cases. His work bridges academic theory and practical peacebuilding challenges. He has authored and co-authored several publications, including:

●     International Statebuilding in West Africa: Civil Wars and New Humanitarianism in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Côte D'Ivoire (recent book with Abu Bakarr Bah)

●     “External Incentives and Conflict De-Escalation” (Sudanese civil war)

●     “Patterns of Economic Aid and Peace Processes in Africa”

●     “Positive Peace and Costing Peacebuilding Needs” (Burundi case-study)

●     Numerous studies on donor conditionality, Cameroon, Boko Haram, regional governance, Chadian foreign military policy, and migration cooperation.

Aside from the above works, Professor Emmanuel has also contributed to major international research projects, including the EU-sponsored “Criminal Entanglements: A new ethnographic approach to transnational organized crime” initiative through the University of Copenhagen.

Looking ahead, Professor Emmanuel envisions SIPS as a model for global education, a program that other universities can look to for inspiration. He believes in the importance of continually opening up ourselves to the world. Specifically in the SIPS program, the diverse experiences of students from across the globe enrich the learning environment and deepen the educational experience for everyone involved.

To current and prospective SIPS students, Professor Emmanuel’s advice is clear and encouraging: Be ready to work hard and learn about new places and ideas! I look forward to seeing you as a participant in the SIPS program soon.

“Diversity at SIPS isn't just demographic; it's intellectual, experiential, and aspirational. Such a dynamic environment makes every class session more engaging and meaningful, and it reinforces the importance of empathy, inclusivity, and global-mindedness in education.”

- Professor Emmanuel

Prof. Emmanuel's Signature Course: Civil War and Peace Processes

The post-Cold War period has been witnessing to a number of brutal civil wars. The course Civil War and Peace Processes (CW&PP) is important to understand nature and causes of such conflicts and ways to build sustainable peace. For this purpose, the course content is divided into four modules: Civil Wars, Phases of War, Ending War and Building Peace. Significantly, besides elucidating key theoretical arguments, the articles in each module also elaborate on and analyse diverse case studies; like El Salvador, Burundi, Rwanda, Afghanistan etc. This facilitates in recognising: a) the gaps between theoretical formulations and reality; and b) the differences and/or similarities between cases.

The systematic structure of the course and the professor’s teaching approach together make the course an intensive, informative, thought-provoking, yet a pleasant, learning experience. It is conducted in the form of lectures, students’ presentations and discussions. For each of the modules, the professor first introduces the key definitions and other important aspects of a particular topic. Following which, students’ present and discuss key articles on it.  The entire course includes two exams; each scheduled after the completion of two modules. The exam requires students to respond to any one of the two or three questions based on the topics discussed in the two modules. The choice provides a good opportunity to develop deeper understanding of the topic of their respective interest.

The course is absolutely in rhythm with overall conceptualisation of SIPS, and that is student centric learning. The structure of the course CW&PP encourages the students to proactively participate in the learning experience. Owing to this, they are able to develop a comprehensive understanding of different aspects of civil war and peace processes. Active engagement also empowers them to raise critical questions about similar conflicts happening in contemporary world, rather than unquestioningly accepting the mainstream narrative. The course is, therefore, contributing significantly in the creation of informed global citizens.

(Student writer: Mahima Natrajan, Entering Class of 2020)

Navigating the Complexity of Peace Through International Law, Human Security, and Human Rights

Professor Vesselin Popovski, a faculty member of the SIPS program at Soka University since 2018. His distinguished career is deeply rooted in both extensive academic study and significant diplomatic experience, which together have shaped his expertise in peace, human rights, and international relations. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) before serving eight years as a junior diplomat during a period of major political change in Eastern Europe. He later advanced his education with a Post-Graduate Diploma in International Relations and Affairs from King’s College London, and a Master’s in International Relations from the London School of Economics. Professor Popovski completed his PhD in War Studies at King’s College London, awarded with distinction. Following his diplomatic career, he worked with a human rights NGO sponsored by the European Union in Vienna, completing legal training in Moscow to support Russian lawyers specializing in human rights defense and lobbying. This unique blend of experiences has established him as a leading scholar and practitioner in international peace and human rights.

Before joining the SIPS program, Professor Popovski served as a Senior Academic Officer at the United Nations University (UNU), a research think tank within the UN system. He authored and contributed to over 25 books, further establishing his scholarly reputation. With his research and publications, Professor Popovski has made significant contributions to international law and global governance, including early research on the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine and studies on universal jurisdiction for crimes against humanity, genocide and war crimes. With these experiences, Professor Popovski teaches the courses Introduction to International Relations Theory, United Nations Roles in Peace and Security, and Human Security and Human Rights at SIPS. He finds great joy in teaching diverse groups of students at SIPS. Balancing the often solitary nature of research and writing, Professor Popovski feels happy and energized when entering the classrooms, engaging with students, and sharing his knowledge and experiences.

Professor Popovski highlights that peace can be approached from many different perspectives and understood diversely by different communities. He stated that the approach to peace studies at Soka University is unique, distinct, viewing peace as an inherent value of life, emphasizing cooperation within human communities, rather than as transactional relationships. This enriching perspective resonates deeply with Professor Popovski, who argues that the concept of peace extends beyond the classical study of conflict and peacebuilding, and embraces a holistic understanding of peace.

Professor Popovski encourages former, current and future prospective students to take full advantage of the SIPS program, which he describes as an exciting and unique academic journey. The program is known for its comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum, offering a rich and diverse learning experiences. With its distinctive approach to peace and peacebuilding, unrivalled in Japan, the SIPS program invites students from all academic backgrounds to join. There is no strict requirement for a prior degree in politics, law, economics, or international relations, students from other disciplines are also welcome to apply. Professor Popovski believes that this openness allows for the creation of meaningful dialogue across disciplines and fosters a deeper, more inclusive understanding of peace in today’s complex world.

“When students bring in diverse expertise and perspectives that link together through the study of peace, it allows a unique synergy of peace to emerge. This diversity of backgrounds enriches classroom discussions by bringing in multiple angles on peace, revealing differing priorities and gaps in understanding that deepen the collective learning experience.”

- Professor Popovski

Prof. Popovski's Signature Course: Human Security and Human Rights

The course, Human Security and Human Rights, explores the concept of human security and how it complements the discourses on human rights.  Content is contemporary as the framework of security and rights can be applied to current challenges like the Covid 19 pandemic and climate change to understand how they are exasperating inequalities in society and threatening not just right to life but also social economic and cultural freedoms. Other interesting aspects of the course are universalism and cultural relativity of human rights, understanding inequality and equality through the lens of human capability, issues related to economic, food, health, environmental, personal, community and political security and their interconnectedness.   
Professor, Vesselin Popovski is an eminent scholar in the field of International Relations and Human Rights. He has contributed a number of books and articles to the field. He has a rich experience of serving as a diplomat and head of several organizations.  He often draws from his experiences and help students understand the practical nuances of the concepts. The course is taught through a variety of teaching methods such as lectures, presentations, academic writings, documentaries and podcasts. Class environment is enriching where students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions and share opinions. Performance and class participation are evaluated through writing assignments, quiz and presentations.  Professor Popovski has an interdisciplinary approach to teaching. He draws ideas from various fields like law and science and connect them with human security and rights. This particularly fascinated me about the course.
Being from a legal background and having worked on access to justice and empowerment issues in India, I felt that the course exposed me to different thoughts on human rights and justice. I also feel the diversity of content and its applicability to development and peace integrates very well with other courses of the SIPS program.

(Student writer: Geetanjali, Entering Class of 2020) 

Building SIPS Program as a Living Expression of Peace in Action

Professor Minoru Koide, the Dean and a faculty member at the SIPS program since 2018. He first completed his undergraduate studies in 1985 at the Faculty of Law at Soka University, Japan. He then pursued a master’s degree in international law at the Graduate School of Law at Soka University, Japan, graduating in 1987. Further advancing his expertise, Dean Koide earned his PhD in International Relations in 1994 from the School of International Relations at the University of Southern California. After completing his studies, Dean Koide worked as a researcher at The Soka University Peace Research Institute. He initially served as a faculty member in the Faculty of Law before, then joined the Faculty of International Liberal Arts with its opening at Soka University in 2014. His educational background reflects a strong foundation in law and international relations, which drives his research interests to focus primarily in the Asia-Pacific region, with a particular emphasis on multilateral cooperation involving key players such as Japan and South Korea.

At SIPS, Dean Koide teaches “Region and Institution Building in the Asia Pacific,”exploring how regional identities are build, and they lead to institutional collaboration on issues ranging from security to economic developmen in the Asia Pacific region. By integrating past case studies and current developments from Japan, South Korea, and their multilateral engagements, he aims to provide students with a deep understanding of the theories and real dynamics of regional cooperation. This approach not only enriches the students’ learning of liberal IR theories, but also equips them with practical insights into international relations in the region.

In his first two years at SIPS, Dean Koide taught the compulsory course, Peace and Global Citizenship, which he found unique and challenging to develop since peace can be a specialization for anyone and is accessible to all. He values the diversity of students in SIPS as it greatly expands the worldviews of both the faculty and students. By engaging students on topics like peace, human rights, and non-violence, he discovers critical and varied perspectives from each person. Although his official role in class is to teach peace, Dean Koide often finds himself learning a great deal from his students, offering him fresh insights and deepening his own understanding of the subject. With that, he is also teaching a part of this course in the “Dialogue of Global Citizens” in the current SIPS curriculum.

Having taught at SIPS for several years, Dean Koide often reflects on the vision of the founder, Daisaku Ikeda. Though the founder never spoke directly with SIPS students, Dean Koide believes he would take great joy in seeing how the program has flourished. Witnessing students come to Soka University, exchanging ideas, and growing into compassionate global citizens fills him with hope and inspiration. To Dean Koide, the SIPS program is a living embodiment of the founder’s dream — Soka University be the highest seat of learning for humanistic education, the cradle of a new culture, and a fortress for the peace of humankind. Looking ahead, Dean Koide’s vision as dean of the SIPS program centers on fostering an environment where diverse voices—both faculty and students—are valued and heard. Recognizing the rich variety of perspectives within such an international and global community, he strives to carefully listen and thoughtfully incorporate the creative contributions of all members into the program’s development.

Lastly, Dean Koide encourages current and prospective SIPS students to recognize that they are invaluable assets to both the university and the SIPS program—often more than they may realize. While the SIPS program is conducted in English in Japan, international students may still encounter cultural challenges alongside the demands of intensive graduate work. Dean Koide hopes that future students will embrace both their academic journey and cultural experiences as opportunities to be a creative global citizen. He deeply values and encourages creativity, believing it will enrich not only their studies but also their future careers.

“Peace is not merely the product of positive moments and a beautiful world; it is forged through facing and overcoming the harsh and difficult realities that life presents.”

- Dean Koide

Prof. Koide's Signature Course: Region and Institution Building in the Asia Pacific

The course, Region and Institution Building in the Asia Pacific, focuses on analyzing the regional institution-building process in the Asia Pacific using international relation (IR) theories such as regional integration theory, interdependence/regime theory, multiculturalism, and constructivism.

The course was discussion-based, and we shared our opinions regarding topics related to assigned readings. We wrote three papers in total and gave a presentation regarding the content of the final paper.

I learned how IR theories have been developed in response to historical movements such as the end of World War, the European integration, the oil crisis, the development of multilateral institutions, and globalization. While I learned a basis of international relation theories in the first semester, I studied each IR theory in more depth in this course (I took in the second semester).

Also, I explored the regional institution-building process in the Asia Pacific. I learned why the Asia Pacific has fewer multilateral institutions compared to the European Union and studied why bilateral institutions are predominant in the Asia Pacific. Moreover, I analyzed the regional institution-building process from the perspective of constructivism underscoring collective identity development as well as liberal institutionalists focusing on institutional development.

Furthermore, from the realists' and constructivists’ perspectives, I examined the US-China relation and how the rise of China influenced the Asia Pacific order. Viewing the rise of China from these different theoretical frameworks assisted me in understanding that the rise of China not only can cause conflicts but also can promote cooperation in the world as well as in the Asia Pacific.

In short, I studied the institution-building process in the world and the Asian Pacific along with deepening my understanding of IR theories. Moreover, the course aided me in viewing historical movements and current world affairs from multiple perspectives.

Although the topics were difficult, professor was very approachable and kindly explained difficult topics in detail until I understand. Also, I studied together with classmates to understand the course topics. Supports from professor and classmates aided me in making clear challenging topics in the course.

(Student writer: Seiko Moriyama, Entering Class of 2020)