In this thorough, analytical introduction to Asia Pacific's dynamic role in contemporary world politics, Derek McDougall focuses on the region's major state actors - China, Japan, and the US - as well as on the conflicts involving Taiwan and Korea, developments in Southeast Asia, and the influences of Russia, Australia, and a range of international organizations. McDougall covers a broad canvas, considering issues of security broadly defined, international political economy, human rights, development, health, drug trafficking, crime, refugees, and the environment. Following the model of his earlier "The International Politics of the New Asia Pacific", he provides an accessible, timely assessment of the key elements in the international politics of the Asia Pacific region today.