Background RC18 was recognised as a Study Group in 1976; granted Research Committee status in 1979.

Objectives Advances the development of Asian and Pacific studies and promotion of the study of political science in Asian and Pacific countries. The work of this committee focuses on the following areas: the modernisation of Asian countries, including the economic and political development of the countries in the Asian and Pacific basin; regional security, including the rise and decline of alliance systems in Asia; and the impact of national integration and world peace.