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An Emerging Experts Dialogue: U.S.-ROK-Japan Maritime Cooperation

A discussion-based forum shaping a policy brief on trilateral maritime cooperation

As maritime security challenges continue to shape the Indo-Pacific, closer coordination among the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan remains essential to a free, open, secure, and resilient regional order. This dialogue is designed as a structured forum for emerging experts to examine practical opportunities for trilateral maritime cooperation. The discussion outcomes will support a policy brief prepared for the Indo-Pacific Minilateral Cooperation Ideas Lab at Northeastern University’s Center for International Affairs and World Cultures. The brief is expected to be translated and distributed in English, Japanese, and Korean. Selected participants may be invited to contribute to the drafting process as co-authors, while all participants will be acknowledged for their contributions to the discussions in the brief.

This project is supported through the Young Trilateral Leaders Alumni Project Fund, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.

Discussion Dates: June 26 and July 10, 2026

Format: Structured Virtual Discussions

Application Deadline: June 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET

Application Materials: Resume or CV and a cover letter of no more than 500 words

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About The Project

The Emerging Experts Dialogue on U.S.-ROK-Japan Maritime Cooperation is a discussion-based policy initiative hosted by the Indo-Pacific Minilateral Cooperation Ideas Lab at Northeastern University’s Center for International Affairs and World Cultures. The dialogue builds on the Lab’s broader work examining how minilateral and trilateral partnerships are shaping regional order and influencing the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Within that broader landscape, U.S.-ROK-Japan cooperation remains one of the most significant trilateral relationships shaping regional strategy. The maritime domain is a core area of trilateral cooperation among the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. All three countries depend heavily on maritime trade and share a common interest in preserving stability across key regional waterways. At the same time, freedom of navigation and broader maritime security continue to face pressure in contested areas such as the South China Sea. These dynamics make maritime stability, strategic coordination, and practical trilateral dialogue a clear shared priority. The dialogue is designed as a structured forum for substantive exchange among emerging experts whose perspectives can help inform a concise, policy-facing brief.

Policy Brief

The discussions will help shape a policy brief prepared for the Indo-Pacific Minilateral Cooperation Ideas Lab. The brief is expected to synthesize major themes, policy insights, and practical takeaways from the discussions. The brief is expected to be translated and distributed in English, Japanese, and Korean. Selected participants may be invited to contribute to the drafting process as co-authors, while all participants will be acknowledged for their contributions to the discussions. Final editorial responsibility will remain with the project leads.

Eligibility

Graduate students, recent graduates, and early to mid-career professionals (up to 5 years) working in foreign policy, maritime security, Indo-Pacific affairs, or related fields are eligible to apply. Candidates should have:

  • A demonstrated interest in U.S.-ROK-Japan cooperation, maritime security, regional security, or Indo-Pacific policy
  • Relevant academic, professional, policy, or research experience
  • Ability to participate actively in both discussions
  • English language skills sufficient for policy discussion

Project Leads