“This is exactly the kind of conversation IAR exists to foster: bringing leading voices from Asia into direct dialogue with our students and community. Our goal is not just to study the region in an abstract manner from afar, but to learn with the people who are actively shaping it. That’s how we prepare our students to engage thoughtfully with the complex challenges ahead.”
On November 14, 2025, UBC’s Institute of Asian Research (IAR) hosted a vibrant fireside chat with former Thai PM-designate and Harvard Kennedy School Visiting Fellow Pita Limjaroenrat. The conversation was moderated by Professor Kai Ostwald, Director of IAR and Associate Professor at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs and the Department of Political Science.
“This is exactly the kind of conversation IAR exists to foster: bringing leading voices from Asia into direct dialogue with our students and community,” said Professor Ostwald. “Our goal is not just to study the region in an abstract manner from afar, but to learn with the people who are actively shaping it. That’s how we prepare our students to engage thoughtfully with the complex challenges ahead.”
Drawing on his extensive academic expertise and frontline political experience, Pita engaged a full-house audience of UBC students, faculty, and staff in an interactive discussion about Asia’s next chapter on power, progress, and peace. The broad-ranging conversation covered political developments, economic governance, and foreign policy challenges facing Southeast Asia.
Pita emphasized his philosophy of remaining “strong in your values but flexible with your execution” when navigating political negotiations. He expressed concern about the concentration of global tech power, noting that the top seven tech companies are dominated by the US and China, creating significant economic influence worldwide. He also highlighted how removal of US Aid has “created a vacuum for other nations to step up” in the region.
Emily Annis, MPPGA student and IAR research fellow
The particularly engaging Q&A session addressed critical issues including land reform for rural Southeast Asia, women’s political participation, and how the Canadian and North American diaspora can support democratic development in Thailand and the region.
“It’s incredibly inspiring to hear from frontline policymakers about how we can best show up when we complete our degrees,” reflected Emily Annis, IAR research fellow and first-year Master of Public Policy student at UBC. “These conversations remind us of the real-world impact our work can have.”
Photos by Si Ming Zheng
