South African Journal of International Affairs-SAJIA

Scope & Guideline

Bridging Local Insights with Global Perspectives

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of South African Journal of International Affairs-SAJIA with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1022-0461
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1993 to 2024
AbbreviationS AFR J INT AFF / S. Afr. J. Int. Aff.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The South African Journal of International Affairs (SAJIA) serves as a critical platform for scholarly discourse on international relations, with a specific emphasis on Africa's role within the global context. The journal aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in and around the African continent.
  1. International Relations and Geopolitics:
    The journal focuses on the evolving international relations landscape, particularly how African nations interact with global powers and regional organizations, reflecting on themes such as diplomacy, security, and economic partnerships.
  2. Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies:
    SAJIA addresses issues of conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the effectiveness of various peace processes across Africa, emphasizing adaptive strategies in response to ongoing violence and instability.
  3. Migration and Mobility:
    The journal explores migration trends within Africa, examining the socio-political implications of migration, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with human movement across borders.
  4. Sustainable Development and Environmental Justice:
    A significant focus is placed on sustainable development initiatives, climate change, and environmental justice, particularly in the context of Africa's unique challenges and the quest for equitable resource management.
  5. Democracy and Governance:
    SAJIA critically analyzes democratic processes, electoral management, and governance issues in Africa, highlighting the impact of democratic backsliding and strategies for enhancing electoral integrity.
  6. Economic Development and Trade Relations:
    The journal investigates economic policies, trade agreements, and the implications of global economic trends for African countries, particularly in relation to regional cooperation frameworks like AfCFTA.
Recent publications in SAJIA indicate a shift towards several emerging themes that reflect current global challenges and the evolving nature of international affairs, especially in the African context.
  1. Geopolitical Shifts and Emerging Powers:
    There is a growing focus on the influence of emerging powers like China and Russia in Africa, examining their strategies and implications for African sovereignty and international relations.
  2. Digital Diplomacy and Technology in International Relations:
    The exploration of digital diplomacy has gained traction, with research emphasizing how technology reshapes diplomatic practices and communication in the context of African states.
  3. Climate Change and Environmental Policy:
    The urgency of addressing climate change has led to an increased emphasis on environmental policies and their intersection with international relations, particularly in relation to sustainable development goals.
  4. Human Rights and Governance:
    An emerging theme is the critical analysis of human rights issues within international relations, focusing on the responsibilities of African states and the influence of international norms.
  5. Transnational Security Threats:
    There is a rising interest in transnational security threats, such as terrorism and organized crime, and their implications for regional stability and governance in Africa.

Declining or Waning

While the journal maintains a broad focus, certain themes have become less prominent in recent publications, reflecting shifts in research priorities and global attention.
  1. Cold War Dynamics and Historical Analyses:
    The exploration of historical geopolitical dynamics from the Cold War era has seen a decline, as contemporary issues increasingly dominate the discourse, particularly those that address current geopolitical tensions.
  2. Traditional Security Studies:
    There appears to be a waning emphasis on conventional security studies that focus solely on military aspects, with a shift towards understanding security through broader socio-economic and political lenses.
  3. Bilateral Relations with Traditional Powers:
    Research focusing on bilateral relations with traditional powers (e.g., Western nations) has diminished, as scholars increasingly turn their attention to multipolarity and the role of emerging powers like China and India.
  4. State-Centric Views on Development:
    There is a noticeable decline in the state-centric approach to development, with more scholars advocating for inclusive and participatory frameworks that consider non-state actors and grassroots movements.
  5. Aid Dependency and Critiques of International Aid:
    The examination of aid dependency as a critical issue has receded, likely due to a growing focus on self-sufficiency and sustainable development practices that prioritize local agency.

Similar Journals

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND PEACE SCIENCE

Exploring the intricacies of conflict and resolution.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0738-8942Frequency: 5 issues/year

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND PEACE SCIENCE is a highly regarded peer-reviewed journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, dedicated to advancing the academic discourse in the fields of conflict resolution, peace studies, economics, and political science. Since its establishment in 1973, the journal has provided a platform for innovative research and critical analysis of the social, economic, and political dimensions of conflict and peace, making it essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With an impressive impact factor reflecting its rigorous standards of scholarship, it is currently ranked Q2 in Economics and Econometrics and Q1 in Political Science and International Relations as of 2023, placing it among the top journals in its field. Additionally, it boasts an 85th percentile ranking for Political Science in Scopus, underscoring its influence and relevance in the academic community. The journal encourages submissions that contribute to theoretical developments and empirical studies, aiming to shed light on the complexities of conflict management and the pursuit of peace. For those interested in impactful research, CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND PEACE SCIENCE provides an invaluable resource that fosters understanding and innovation in addressing global conflicts.

MGIMO Review of International Relations

Pioneering Insights into Global Dynamics.
Publisher: MGIMO UNIV PRESSISSN: 2071-8160Frequency: 6 issues/year

MGIMO Review of International Relations is a leading academic journal published by MGIMO UNIV PRESS, based in the Russian Federation. This open access journal, which has been accessible since 2012, serves as a crucial platform for the dissemination of scholarly research within the fields of international relations, political science, sociology, and history. With an impact factor that reflects its growing relevance — particularly in Q1 for History and ranked among the top tiers in related disciplines — the journal plays a significant role in advancing the understanding of complex global issues. Its wide-ranging scope encompasses critical analyses and interdisciplinary studies that appeal to researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal’s Scopus rankings highlight its international standing, notably its 68th percentile in Arts and Humanities, underscoring its contribution to the knowledge of contemporary global relations. As it converges through the years 2019 to 2024, MGIMO Review of International Relations continues to cultivate an intellectual community that fosters impactful dialogue on international dynamics.

Review of Faith & International Affairs

Exploring the Nexus of Belief and Politics
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1557-0274Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Review of Faith & International Affairs, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands at the intersection of religion, politics, and international relations, providing a critical platform for scholarly discourse. With the ISSN 1557-0274 and E-ISSN 1931-7743, this esteemed journal has been pivotal since its inception in 2009, exploring how faith influences global affairs and fosters understanding across cultures and political contexts. Currently holding a Q1 ranking in Religious Studies and a Q2 in Sociology and Political Science, it boasts an impressive Scopus rank of #42 out of 644 in its field, reflecting its significant impact in academia, evidenced by a >93rd percentile ranking. The journal operates without open access, ensuring a curated selection of high-quality research articles that seek to enhance the dialogue between faith and policy in contemporary societies. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find the Review of Faith & International Affairs an invaluable resource for understanding the complexities of faith in the global arena, contributing to both theoretical and practical advancements in the fields of religious studies and international relations.

Journal of Contemporary East Asia Studies

Charting New Territories in East Asian Scholarship.
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2476-1028Frequency: 2 issues/year

The Journal of Contemporary East Asia Studies, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a premier platform dedicated to the interdisciplinary exploration of contemporary East Asia, effectively bridging cultural studies, sociology, political science, and development. Established as an Open Access journal since 2017, it has rapidly distinguished itself in the academic landscape, achieving a commendable Q1 ranking in Cultural Studies and Q2 rankings in both Sociology and Political Science, as well as Development for 2023. This journal not only boasts impressive Scopus ranks, placing it in the top decile of Cultural Studies, but also emphasizes engaging and impactful research that reflects the complex dynamics of East Asia today. With an unwavering commitment to accessibility and scholarly excellence, the journal invites researchers, professionals, and students to contribute to and benefit from high-quality research that shapes understanding in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.

Mirovaya Ekonomika i Mezhdunarodnye Otnosheniya

Analyzing Contemporary Issues in Economics and Politics
Publisher: NAUKA PUBLISHING HOUSEISSN: 0131-2227Frequency: 12 issues/year

Mirovaya Ekonomika i Mezhdunarodnye Otnosheniya, with the ISSN 0131-2227 and published by NAUKA PUBLISHING HOUSE, serves as a premier platform for the dissemination of research in the fields of economics and international relations, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence in the Russian Federation. With an impressive trajectory from 2015 to 2024, this journal is currently categorized as Q3 in Economics and Econometrics and Q2 in Political Science and International Relations, highlighting its growing influence and recognition within the academic community. Although the journal does not operate under an open access model, it provides valuable insights and rigorous analyses addressing contemporary global economic issues and international dynamics, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The Scopus rankings further position it as a relevant publication, underscoring its engagement with significant disciplinary debates and frameworks in both economics and political science.

Global Change Peace & Security

Innovating Solutions for Global Security and Cooperation
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1478-1158Frequency: 3 issues/year

Global Change Peace & Security is a prominent scholarly journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, focusing on the intricate interplay between global change and peace efforts within the realms of political science and international relations. With an ISSN of 1478-1158 and an E-ISSN of 1478-1166, this esteemed journal spans from 2008 to 2024, consistently contributing to critical discourse in its field. Ranked in the second quartile (Q2) for both Political Science and International Relations as well as Sociology, it occupies a distinguished position with a Scopus ranking of 134 out of 706 and a percentile standing of 81st in Political Science. The journal’s objective is to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and functional policy discussions, thereby fostering dialogue that addresses contemporary challenges in global governance and human security. By offering rich, research-based insights and analysis, Global Change Peace & Security serves as a vital resource for academics, practitioners, and policy-makers committed to advancing peace and security amidst pervasive global transformations.

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Exploring the Intersection of Policy and Global Dynamics.
Publisher: COUNCIL FOREIGN RELAT IONS INCISSN: 0015-7120Frequency: 6 issues/year

Foreign Affairs, published by the Council on Foreign Relations Inc., stands as a premier journal in the fields of Political Science and International Relations. Established as a leading voice in international policy analysis, this journal has garnered an impressive reputation, securing a position in the Q2 category both for Political Science and Sociology, as well as ranking #67 out of 706 in its Scopus category, putting it in the top 10% of its field. Although it is not an open-access journal, it provides critical insights and rigorous scholarship that are invaluable for researchers, policy-makers, and students engaged in the complexities of global affairs. With a publication history dating back to 1965, the journal addresses the pressing international issues of our time, fostering informed discourse and promoting a deeper understanding of global political dynamics. Through its quarterly issues, Foreign Affairs not only serves as a vital resource but also shapes the conversations that define contemporary international relations.

African Security Review

Advancing Insights into Africa's Security Landscape
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1024-6029Frequency: 4 issues/year

African Security Review is a leading journal dedicated to the critical examination of security issues affecting the African continent. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, and based in the United Kingdom, this peer-reviewed journal aims to foster multidisciplinary dialogue in the fields of Law, Political Science, International Relations, and Safety Research. With a commendable Q2 ranking in these areas for 2023, it sits among the top echelon of academic publications, reflecting its impact and relevance in addressing contemporary security challenges from 1995 through its ongoing contributions up to 2024. The journal provides essential insights and analyses for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, allowing access to the latest developments and frameworks in African security. The absence of an Open Access option underscores its commitment to maintaining high academic standards and rigor in the studies it publishes. By engaging with the African Security Review, stakeholders can deepen their understanding and enhance their efforts to promote peace and stability across Africa.

Vestnik Mezhdunarodnykh Organizatsii-International Organisations Research Journal

Elevating research in political science and international relations.
Publisher: NATL RESEARCH UNIV HIGHER SCH ECONOMICSISSN: 1996-7845Frequency: 4 issues/year

Vestnik Mezhdunarodnykh Organizatsii-International Organisations Research Journal, with ISSN 1996-7845, is a prominent academic platform published by the NATIONAL RESEARCH UNIVERSITY HIGHER SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS in the Russian Federation. Since its transition to Open Access in 2006, it has been dedicated to advancing research in the fields of Political Science, International Relations, Economics, and Sociology. The journal has established itself within reputable quartile rankings as Q2 in Political Science and International Relations, showcasing its significance in contemporary scholarship, while achieving noteworthy positions in Economics and Finance categories. With the aim to encourage interdisciplinary dialogue, the journal invites contributions that deepen our understanding of global governance, economic dynamics, and sociopolitical phenomena. Researchers, professionals, and students alike can benefit from its rigorous peer-reviewed content, contributing to informed discourse in an increasingly complex world.

Latin American Policy

Advancing Understanding of Regional Policy Challenges
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 2041-7365Frequency: 2 issues/year

Latin American Policy, published by WILEY, is a pivotal journal in the field of political science and international relations, focusing on contemporary issues pertinent to Latin America. With an ISSN of 2041-7365 and an E-ISSN of 2041-7373, this journal serves as a key resource for researchers, professionals, and students who seek to understand the complex dynamics shaping the region's policies and governance. Since its inception in 2010, it has maintained a solid academic reputation, currently holding a Q3 ranking in both Political Science and International Relations and Sociology and Political Science categories as of 2023. Although the journal does not provide open access options, it remains a vital platform for disseminating high-quality research that drives informed policy-making and deepens scholarly discourse. The journal's focus on diverse themes ranging from socio-political transformations to international relations positions it as an essential tool for those engaged in the study of Latin America, fostering a comprehensive understanding of regional challenges and developments.