Abstract

This seminar is based on the speaker’s new book, Asian Crucible (Bristol University Press, 2026), which explores the role of globalisation and geopolitics in the making of modern Asia. It tells the sweeping story of Asia’s modern resurgence: how globalisation, supply chains and market-led integration powered unprecedented economic growth and lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty. It explores the creativity, energy and resilience that made this possible, while examining the dark side of that success: new geopolitical and nationalistic tensions that threaten to unravel this progress. As Asia stands at a crossroads, facing both extraordinary opportunity and escalating risk, this seminar will examine these forces and argue for thoughtful and creative leadership to ensure that peace and prosperity rather than conflict and division define the next chapter of Asia’s story.

About the Speaker

Nick Bisley is Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Professor of International Relations at La Trobe University, Australia. He recently completed a term as President of the Australasian Council of Deans of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, has been Visiting Fellow at the East-West Center, Washington, DC and previously served as Editor-in-Chief of the Australian Journal of International Affairs.

Warren Fernandez is a Senior Fellow, Head of National Security Studies Programme, and Editor of RSIS Publications at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He concurrently serves as Director of Industry Engagement at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU).

With over three decades of experience in the news, media, and communications sectors, Warren has held key leadership roles, including Editor-in-Chief of the English/Malay/Tamil Media Group at SPH Media and Editor of The Straits Times.

Before joining RSIS, he was the Chief Executive Officer for Edelman (Asia Pacific), where he developed a deep understanding of the critical importance of trust in an evolving global landscape. He brings first-hand experience in navigating the transformation of the media ecosystem and the challenges of digital disruption.

Beyond his professional career, Warren is an active contributor to the community. He serves as a Board Member of the National Arts Council and the National Library Board, and in 2023, he was appointed a Member of the Public Service Commission by the President of Singapore. He has also previously served as President of the World Editors Forum, Chairman of the Asia News Network, and Chairman of The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund.

Warren holds a First-Class Honours degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from Oxford University and a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.