International Relations Center

Causes: Arts & Culture, Arts, Culture & Humanities, International, International Agricultural Development, National Security

Mission: The IRC is a unique institution that has evolved and matured over the course of the past 27 years. Key elements of the IRC's approach to its work include... Working collaboratively. The IRC works with partners from different sectors across the globe in order to enhance our analysis, deepen shared understanding of priorities and positions, encourage strategic discussions regarding best practices and policy responses, and project expertise from outside traditional circles of power into policy debates. Adhering to high standards of intellectual rigor. Although the analysis published by the IRC does not always represent our own views, we do seek to ensure it is consonant with such broad progressive principles as respect for human rights, sustainable development, and multilateral problemsolving. We require all our work to be grounded in solid research and to adhere to high standards of intellectual rigor. Tabling new ideas and concrete proposals. When working with collaborators to formulate analysis, we don't just give them carte blanche, but rather engage with them to shape analysis that is unique and strategic, rather than recycled and dogmatic. We want our analysis to go beyond merely critiquing policy to forward concrete policy alternatives. Forging local-global links. In these globalizing times, when domestic economies, public health, culture, and social standards are increasingly tied to global affairs, we believe that effective reforms obligate analysts and activists to leverage global-local links to foster better education, advocacy, and transborder networking. Promoting strategic dialogue between the North and South. By collaborating with diverse partners overseas and at home and incorporating their analyses into our materials, the IRC strives to bridge gaps between the global North and South. Reaching out overseas. To the full extent possible, IRC materials are published in both English, Spanish and Portugese and distributed to audiences overseas and in the United States. Advancing citizen-based agendas. In keeping with its belief that transboundary communities and citizen groups offer the best visionary and practical thinking about solving new global and hemispheric challenges, the IRC is committed to advancing citizen-based agendas. Bridging gaps. We are committed to bridging gaps (operative and conceptual) that separate the activist, advocacy, scholarly, and policy communities.