Working at the Intersection of Peacebuilding, Policy & Education for close to 100 years

Our Work - IWA

Since 1924, the Institute of World Affairs has been working to bring together individuals and communities to better understand and resolve conflict.  This includes cutting-edge research on the practice and effectiveness of international peacebuilding as well as on-the-ground initiatives to bring local communities, business leaders, and government representatives together in constructive dialogue.

Professional development programs and web-based learning initiatives designed for diplomats and staff of international organizations help bridge the divide between learning and practice.  Roundtable discussions, conferences, and workshops bring together policy experts, community leaders, and decision makers.


JAMS FoundationWe are happy to announce that IWA has been awarded a two-year grant by the JAMS (Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services) Foundation for a project to provide conflict resolution training for children in some of the most challenged communities in Washington, DC.  IWA will partner with the DC-based community organization, Alliance of Concerned Men (ACM), to implement this project.

The project involves conflict resolution training for elementary school children to provide skill sets for the mitigation or resolution of disputes before they escalate into violence. Project objectives include development of a training manual and instruction by respected community trainers. A capstone element is a simulation of a conflict situation wherein students can put learning into practice in a controlled setting. This project builds on previous work done for older youth by IWA and ACM.


Internships at IWA

The Institute of World Affairs (IWA) offers internship opportunities to qualified graduate students. Internships are typically semester-long but may be extended under special circumstances. While there is no financial remuneration, IWA interns often receive academic credit from their home institution. The program is highly selective, with two or three students accepted each semester.

Qualifications: Applicants must be enrolled in or recent graduates of programs in peace studies, conflict resolution, development, human rights and allied fields. Field experience is preferred. Applicants must have excellent research, writing, and organizational skills, and be able to work independently. IWA interns generally work remotely.

Application Process: Applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter describing their experience and qualifications, and the particular program at IWA that is of interest to them and why. All internship correspondence should be directed to Dr. Joyce P. Kaufman, Director of Internships, Institute of World Affairs at jkaufman@iwa.org.

Fall 2023 Internship: Women, Peace and Security

Fall 2023 Internship: Preventing Youth Violence

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