The Journal of Indian Ocean World Studies (JIOWS) is the creation of the Indian Ocean World Centre (IOWC) at McGill University. It publishes original peer reviewed articles by established and emerging scholars in the social sciences, humanities, and related disciplines that contribute to an understanding of the Indian Ocean World (IOW) and its constituent parts, from early times to the present day. The IOW is here defined as a macro-region running from Africa to East Asia, comprising both maritime and terrestrial zones.

4 July 2023: The Editors of the Journal of Indian Ocean World Studies are saddened to hear of the death of Michael Naylor Pearson (1941-2023). As readers of this journal know, Professor Pearson was a major pioneer of the history of Portuguese imperialism and the Indian Ocean World. He was also a valued visitor to, and participant in the activities of, the Indian Ocean World Centre (IOWC) at McGill. We would point those who would like to reflect on his work and influence towards two special issues of the JIOWS written in tribute to Michael: Vol. 2, Iss. 1 (2018), and Vol. 3, Iss. 1 (2019). They attest to the quality of his scholarship and his kindness as a colleague and friend to many. We look forward to reading the numerous tributes that will inevitably be published in the coming days.