Building Policy Professionals Through Research and Dialogue
The International Affairs and Global Development Initiative is a non partisan, student run organization that connects future policy makers, leaders and students passionate about our interconnected world. From specific humanitarian issues to shifting global industries, IAGDI focuses its efforts on evidence-backed policy and practical approaches to complex international challenges.
Biweekly Discussions
Each session is spent discussing the global challenge at hand, where students can inform each other with new insights they've gained through their research. On specific days, IAGDI will host industry professionals through a roundtable, speaking to students about their experience with the topic — sharing their recommendations, opinions, and how they would approach researching the issue.
Policy Analyses
Through biweekly meetings and panels with industry experts, IAGDI will work to produce semesterly policy analyses. In a full academic cycle, IAGDI will research one paper related to Canadian affairs and diplomacy, and another focused on development and humanitarian issues.
The Policy Analysis Process
Our research program follows a structured cycle that helps students move from initial exposure to actionable policy analysis.
1. Learn
Build foundational knowledge of the theme through readings, briefings, and biweekly discussion.
2. Discuss
Examine different aspects of the broader issue through structured, student-led discussions.
3. Research
Investigate evidence, case studies, and existing policy approaches related to a focused problem.
4. Develop Options
Consider multiple perspectives and generate a range of feasible policy responses.
5. Professor Feedback
Share drafts with an invited faculty member and incorporate their academic guidance into the final analysis.
6. Write
Collaboratively prepare a concise policy analysis that presents research and recommendations.
7. Expert Feedback
Receive constructive critique from professors, academics, policy professionals, or other knowledgeable practitioners.
8. Present
Share findings at a Policy Review Night in front of members and invited guests.
Policy Review Night
At the end of each term, IAGDI will hold a presentation where the researchers will discuss their work before an invited audience of students, professors and experts.
These sessions are designed to simulate an authentic think tank panel, providing students with a safe place to gain the necessary experience for professional policy communication.
Skills We Develop
IAGDI's research program is designed to help students build practical competencies in policy analysis, research, critical thinking, international affairs, global development, presentation, and communication.
We provide a non-partisan environment for examining global challenges from multiple perspectives. Student research and recommendations represent the work of participating students and should not be interpreted as positions held by IAGDI, Mount Royal University, or the broader membership.
Affiliation
IAGDI is a ratified academic organization associated with Mount Royal University. The Initiative accepts members from outside of Mount Royal University.
Research
Peer-reviewed analysis and evidence-based policy discussion.
Dialogue
Open, structured debate on pressing global challenges.
Action
Connecting academic inquiry to real-world policy impact.