Individual Level Analysis in Foreign Policy and Teaching

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Foreign policy analysis encompasses various hallmarks, as discussed by Hudson. One crucial hallmark, relevant to our current topic, is the multilevel approach. Hudson explains that decision-making factors in foreign policy are clustered into three levels: individual, state, and system analysis.

At the individual level, Goldstein emphasizes the impact of influential leaders and individuals on shaping historical events and foreign policy outcomes. He argues that every international event is a result of decisions made by individuals, making the individual level of analysis agent-oriented and actor-specific.

Breuning builds upon this concept, focusing on leaders and decision-makers in foreign policy analysis. She highlights the significance of studying their personalities, beliefs, and values as factors influencing foreign policy decisions. Understanding these enduring qualities enhances our comprehension of what motivates decision-makers.

Minister Pato's statement in the National Refugee Policy (2015) reflects the Melanesian belief in providing assistance based on common humanity. This belief influenced the decision to assist Australia and welcome refugees, demonstrating the connection between individual beliefs and foreign policy choices.

Furthermore, the perception of leaders, such as Minister Pato, played a crucial role in shaping foreign policy decisions. Pato believed that housing refugees would benefit Papua New Guinea in the long run, as refugees often possess skills and experiences needed by the country. International studies have shown that refugees can contribute positively to their new homes, creating jobs and additional revenue.

Considering public perception, interviews conducted by EMTV shed light on how the national refugee policy was viewed by individuals in the community.

Expanding beyond foreign policy, the individual level of analysis is also relevant to teaching and learning strategies. The lecturer highlights how personal traits, beliefs, values, and perception shape the approach to teaching. These factors influence the development and implementation of different strategies, such as assessment tasks and the utilization of technology.

The absence of prominent Papua New Guinean academics in the field of foreign policy or international relations is mentioned as a factor influencing perspectives and mentorship. The lecturer emphasizes the importance of individual efforts in accessing knowledge through various resources, such as the internet and online databases.

The lecturer's own experiences and limited access to technology during their undergraduate years shaped their current teaching and learning approach. They draw parallels between teaching and learning strategies and foreign policy, emphasizing how the personality and perception of decision-makers influence both.

In conclusion, the individual level of analysis holds great significance in understanding foreign policy and international relations. It is essential to consider why PNG agreed to assist Australia in resettling refugees, why Peter O'Neill extended assistance to Kevin Rudd, and why Minister Pato commended the national refugee policy. These questions highlight the importance of understanding the individual level of analysis in comprehending foreign policy decisions.

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