Politics at Otago

15/05/2026

The lack of academic work connecting Thailand and New Zealand – beyond topics like trade, dairy, or business – was a key motivator for Peammy Samrejsuk’s research with Otago.

12/05/2026

MPols graduate Ravneel Chand is featured in the University Bulletin. Congratulations on your new job, Ravneel!

While Ravneel Chand was missed at graduation celebrations here in Ōtepoti Dunedin, it seems fitting he celebrated in the homeland he seeks to serve through his research.

09/05/2026

Congratulations to all our graduates!

21/04/2026

Dr Leon Goldsmith, Honorary Senior Lecturer in Middle East Politics speaks about the ongoing crisis at Money Matters and with the Conversation:

https://theconversation.com/strait-of-hormuz-blockade-the-complex-regional-realities-the-us-ignores-at-its-peril-280427

https://omny.fm/shows/moneyfm-evening-show/the-big-story-did-washington-undermine-its-own-ceasefire-with-iran-through-the-cargo-ship-seizure

The pivotal waterway is much more than a global economic choke point. It is a politically and culturally dynamic region with its own dangerous undercurrents.

09/04/2026

29/03/2026

This workshop will empower participants to counter the common narrative that public investment is unaffordable or must be paid for by implementing austerity measures.
Sunday 19 April 2pm - 6pm

An afternoon workshop on anti-austerity, MMT as a guide to economic policy analysis, and promoting social justice and a transition to ecological sustainability.

17/03/2026

Leon Goldsmith discusses why US allies are reluctant to become involved.

A growing divide has emerged among Western allies after President Donald Trump urged partners to send warships to es**rt vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Countries including Germany, Spain and Italy have declined, citing legal limitations, the lack of consultation before the strikes on Iran, an...

10/03/2026

Congratulations Tola!

Congratulations to Omotola Oyesiji Amusan for receiving an Otago 20Twenties Young Alumni Award 🙌🏾 Currently, he is a lecturer at the University of Waikato. As an educator, he is committed to encouraging future generations to explore unconventional approaches to building a world where everyone has the opportunity to experience freedom, safety, and prosperity – an ethos that also underpins his research.

Omotola completed his doctoral research with Politics at Otago in 2023. His work examines Chinese grand strategy, geoeconomics, and engagement with Africa, Southeast Asia, and the South Pacific. His research aims to uncover how trade, infrastructure investment, and financial flows are reshaping governance and development across these regions of the developing world.

Omotola has demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening community cohesion through many inspiring roles. He is a worthy recipient of a 20Twenties Award, which go to graduates in their twenties who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, contributed significantly to their communities, or shown leadership in a personal or professional capacity.

Read more about Omotola and the other inspiring young alumni recognised here: https://www.otago.ac.nz/news/newsroom/otagos-young-alumni-award-winners-full-of-heart-and-purpose

07/03/2026

Come along and support our Jim Headley in the University team!

Politicians vs University of Otago... on the football field⚽️

A conversation between MP Scott Willis, and Otago staff Phil Kelly and Professor Hugh Campbell sparked the idea for a match between politicians and the university...

And this Sunday, it's on‼️

⏱️Kick-off: 12:30pm
📍Logan Park Turf
📅 8 March

Come along and support our staff - may the best team win!

📷: HUBS Senior Professional Practice Fellow Philip Kelly who will be refereeing the game on Sunday.

06/03/2026

Two words: HAPPY HOUR. 🥳

That’s right happy hour is back for 2026!
Join us in the Burns Common Room next Wednesday. Bring a friend and your drink of choice, alcohol or no alcohol, we don’t judge. Expect light snacks and some special guests.