In this era of globalization, international organizations and government bodies have become increasingly important to managing the world. Examples include the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, which promote economic development, support countries with balance of payments problems, and provide other forms of financial assistance. In addition, the United Nations and its specialized agencies address issues such as conflict resolution and peacekeeping, education, health, global poverty, and the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
Another area of concern in global affairs is the environment, which is being compromised by such activities as deforestation, pollution, and climate change. These issues have a direct impact on human well-being, especially in terms of food and water supply, and they can also threaten the stability of societies around the world.
In the study of global affairs, students are able to gain a better understanding of the complex issues that have come to shape our planet and the lives of its inhabitants. They learn to think critically about the current state of the world through an approach that combines multiple disciplines and approaches. Many graduates go on to careers in governmental and non-governmental agencies, the private sector, academia, and research organizations in the United States and abroad. They may pursue advanced studies in global affairs or choose to focus on specific subfields such as globalization and regional studies, political science, economics, and history. They may also choose to complete a capstone project in GLBL 4499 or a senior essay course in either a substantive seminar or the global affairs senior essay course (GLBL 4500). The Middlebury Journal of Global Affairs is the official student publication that promotes an interdisciplinary understanding of pressing contemporary and historical global issues.
