The Major addresses processes and problems of governance and policy in relation to local, national and international development. It combines a thorough theoretical understanding with a practical, policy-oriented approach. The Major is built around several themes:

• the way in which processes of governance, wealth creation and democracy relate to issues of participation, equality, accountability, and civil and human rights;
• the way in which power affects the relations between actors in processes of governance and policy, and in politics from local to global levels;
• the major factors influencing public policy processes in the current era, the roles of various groups and actors, and the methodologies employed to formulate and evaluate policies;
• the interactions of governments, private enterprises, development organizations and communities and their strategies towards challenges and opportunities that come with globalization and enhanced competition;
• the nature and characteristics of institutions through which governance is constructed and reproduced, as well as forms of resistance at local, national or international levels.

After completing the Major, participants will be familiar with the analysis of governance processes from the local to the global level. They will be able to study reform processes at these various levels, and provide meaningful inputs to policy making and reform strategies.

Full information about this major

Specializations

International Political Economy and Development

Local Development Strategies

Public Policy and Management

Target group

This Major offers essential insight for people involved in political analysis as well as in the development and management of policy within the public, private or civil society sector, and operating primarily at local, national or international level. Find out more about the ISS student body.