Amy Freedman

Amy Freedman is Professor and Department Chairperson in the Department of Political Science at Pace University, affiliated with the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences. She is based at the New York City campus and maintains active research and teaching in political science.

• B.A., Barnard College
• M.A., Political Science, New York University
• Ph.D., Political Science, New York University

Her research centers on Southeast Asia, with a strong focus on ethnic and religious politics, democratization processes, and youth-led political movements. She investigates broader trends in democratic backsliding and resistance, particularly in Myanmar, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Her work also examines nontraditional security threats and the geopolitical dynamics of imperial competition in the region. These interests are deeply integrated into her teaching and publications.

Her recent scholarly output includes two major works: Resist! Democracy and Youth Activism in Myanmar, Hong Kong, and Singapore (2024) and Empire Competition: Southeast Asia as a Site of Imperial Contestation (2022). These publications reflect a consistent thematic engagement with democratization, civil society mobilization, and geopolitical contestation in East and Southeast Asia.

She has received research support including a grant from the New York Southeast Asia Network for her project on democracy and youth activism. She is a member of professional organizations such as the New York Southeast Asia Network and the Columbia University Weatherhead East Asian Institute.

Amy Freedman teaches a broad range of courses including Politics of Southeast Asia, Chinese Politics, Public Myth & Ideologies, Crimes Against Humanity, and Politics Through Film. She advises independent studies and supervises internships in government, contributing significantly to student mentorship and curriculum development.

She is actively involved in academic service and regularly presents her research at national conferences, including the Association of Asian Studies Annual Meeting. Her office hours are held in-person and by appointment in NYC.