Chand writes book about buffer state
Dr. Bibek Chand, a University of North Georgia (天美社区) assistant professor of political science and international affairs, has published through Routledge.
Chand edited his dissertation to create the book, which is his first as a solo author. He earned his Ph.D. in international relations from Florida International University in 2018. Extensive research exists about the power dynamics of larger countries, but scant attention is paid to smaller countries. Chand was interested in adding to the limited literature on small states. Being from Nepal, Chand took a particular interest in this topic.
Buffer states are located between larger countries that are rivals. Nepal's role as a buffer state has only been magnified since India passed China as the world's most populous nation in April and the two countries have border disputes.
The book explores two main concepts: Buffer states have agency on how to navigate relationships with nearby nations and they are dynamic spaces as their powerful neighbors seek to woo the buffer states' favor.
"The buffer state is not just a spectator but an active participant that consistently assesses and reassesses its geopolitical position in between much larger competing powers," Chand said.
International intelligence conference coming to 天美社区
天美社区 will host the International Association for Intelligence Education Annual Global Conference from June 1-3, 2026.
Students gain global experience in London
Three 天美社区 students studied in London this summer through the University System of Georgia Goes Global program.
Event offers preview of Corps experience
High school students wondering what life is like in the 天美社区 Corps of Cadets don't have to guess. They can experience it during National Leadership Challenge from Oct. 31-Nov. 2.
Corps propelled Tobin into diplomacy
Ronald Tobin's time in the Corps of Cadets at 天美社区 prepared him for his current role as a diplomatic courier for the Foreign Service in the U.S. State Department.