The Journal of International Affairs publishes research and analysis from leading policymakers, practitioners, and academics. We publish peer-reviewed articles and analytical arguments in our biannual print issue, as well as commentary and shorter arguments on our website.
Browse Guidelines
Deadlines
Abstracts and Pitches: Rolling
Analytic Arguments (about 3,000 words): November 17, 2023
Peer-Reviewed Essays (4,000-6,000 words): November 17, 2023
Background
Technology continues to rapidly evolve and shape every aspect of a globalized world. From the algorithms that underpin machine learning to the influence of both legacy and social media in shaping public opinion, the omnipresence of technology demands the constant attention of policymakers. While the ethical quandaries that are emerging from an ever-expanding technological landscape remain challenging, there is also immense potential in using technology to tackle global challenges such as poverty, conflict, forced displacement, climate change, and trade.
The 152nd issue of the Journal of International Affairs seeks to initiate a dialogue on the interplay of technology and policy practice by delving into the intersection of innovation and governance. We seek perspectives from policymakers who are using technology to advance policy objectives across an array of sectors, as well from regulators who are confronting that rapid technological evolution to harness the potential and mitigate the harm. Additionally, we seek perspectives from practitioners in the private and nonprofit sectors who are doing the same—deploying new technologies to serve their constituencies, both domestically and across borders.
As technology becomes accessible to greater numbers of people, we are committed to spotlighting non-traditional perspectives that challenge contemporary understanding. Our exploration encompasses the vast typology of technologies, from the hardware to the software, and the various functions each performs. In doing so, we also recognize their application across diverse geographical and thematic landscapes, with the overarching aim of creating a resource for policymakers on current trends and utilization that can both caution and instruct.
Scope
JIA seeks contributions that further the existing literature and take a deeper dive into current challenges and emerging opportunities. The Journal calls upon an interdisciplinary set of global policymakers, international organizations, activists, academics, researchers, engineers, security personnel, and more to share how they are using technology in novel ways and grappling with the speed and complexity of implementation. Possible topics for consideration include, but are not limited to:
- Technology as a tool climate change mitigation and adaptation
- Gender data gaps and technology solutions
- Supply chain and logistics
- Monitoring, evaluation, and learning
- Cyberspace in military operations
- Drones, especially as a violence mitigation force
- Social media, especially in the conflict landscape
- Misinformation and disinformation
- AI use in the triple nexus of human rights, humanitarianism, and peacebuilding
- Ethical dimensions of technology usage and regulation
Submission Guidelines
JIA publishes peer-reviewed academic essays of 4,000–6,000 words and analytical arguments of about 3,000 words, which are not peer reviewed. Those interested in contributing are welcome to submit for either format. All articles must represent original, unpublished work. Conference papers or discussion papers that have not previously appeared in print are welcomed. JIA follows Chicago style, and its citation format is an adaptation of Chicago’s Notes and Bibliography system. Adaptations of existing work, such as book chapters, are considered if they are distinct enough from the original, and conference papers are welcome.
Interested contributors may submit a full draft or a 200-word abstract/pitch detailing key questions, arguments, methodology, findings (for an essay), and implications for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners. Please email your draft or pitch, along with brief biographical information, to [email protected] with “JIA Technology Submission” in the subject line.
Eligible students are encouraged to send entries for our student essay contests.
The Journal of International Affairs website runs in-depth analysis on current global issues and trends throughout the year. We accept unsolicited submissions from thought leaders and practitioners working in various fields across international affairs.
Online submissions may either be Arguments or Comments.
Arguments are long-form academic essays, typically ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 words, which present a comprehensive and detailed inquiry into specific themes (for example: female employment in Japan).
Comments are opinion essays, typically ranging from 800 to 1,200 words, which present sharp and insightful perspectives on a specific debate within a broader theme relevant to global discourse (for example: the UN Security Council should be reformed).
All submissions must be unpublished, original work.
Please email submissions and questions to our editorial team at [email protected].
Basic Online Style Guide
- All facts and quotations must be cited from reputable sources using Chicago-Style Citations.
- Keep paragraphs as short as possible—preferably not more than eight lines long.
- Include a two to three line summary at the head of the essay. The summary should be a tagline for the essay—it must capture the core message of the essay, giving away just enough about the essay to capture readers’ interest.
- Add a brief one- to two-line bio at the end of the article.
All copyrights for articles published in the print issue and online are held by the Journal of International Affairs and the The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York. For permission to reprint articles, please contact the editorial board at [email protected].
The Journal of International Affairs does not take institutional positions and the views represented are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board or Columbia University.