Columbia University's Journal of International Affairs holds two student essay contests: the Andrew Wellington Cordier Contest and the Global Public Policy Network Contest. Winning authors of both contests are published in the print issue and receive $500. Since Vol. 72, No.2, in the spring of 2019, the Journal also holds a biannual visual arts contest with a $250 prize.
The theme of the 2019 winter issue will be Climate Disruption. The issue will explore the widespread and catastrophic effects of climate change, climate change's impact on global and domestic politics, and promising mitigation possibilities and potential solutions to these challenges. In naming Climate Disruption the topic of this issue, our hope is to amplify discussion on climate change's policy implications while also bringing attention to its gravity beyond the typical scope of debate.
Deadline and Submission Guidelines
All submissions are due at 11:59 pm EST on 3 November 2019 submitted via email to [email protected]. Specific information on each of the contests can be found below.
If you have questions, please contact the Editorial Board at [email protected].
Submissions for all three contests are welcome on the following topics, or on a similar topic related to the issue's main theme:
- Climate change and migration/movement of peoples
- Climate change and youth engagement
- Climate change and vulnerable populations
- Climate change denial
- International accords and climate change policy
- Climate change and the loss of cultural heritage
- Natural disasters/catastrophic natural events
Andrew Wellington Cordier Contest
Andrew Wellington Cordier became the dean of the School of International Affairs (as it was known then) in 1962 following a distinguished career at the U.S. Department of State and the United Nations. From 1969−1970, he served as president of Columbia University. The Cordier essay contest acknowledges and honors the contributions that he made to the school and university. The Andrew Wellington Cordier Contest is open to all currently enrolled Columbia University students.
Essays may be between 2,000-4,000 words, and cannot have been previously published. Citations should be formatted according to the Chicago Manual of Style. For examples of winning student essays, visit the student essays section of our website.
Global Public Policy Network Contest
The Global Public Policy Network (GPPN) Contest was established in 2011. The contest is open to all currently enrolled students of GPPN-partnered schools (Columbia University, Sciences Po Paris, the London School of Economics and Political Science, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, the FGV-EAESP, the Graduate School of Public Policy, and the Hertie School of Governance). Through this effort, the Journal strives to promote dialogue and feature a diverse cross section of student perspectives.
Essays may be between 2,000-4,000 words, and cannot have been previously published. Citations should be formatted according to the Chicago Manual of Style. For examples of winning student essays, visit the student essays section of our website.
Visual Arts Contest
Columbia University students are welcome to submit original artwork related to the topics outlined below. The winner will receive a $250 prize and the winning project will be published in the Journal’s upcoming issue.
Submissions for the contest should be a 2D visual art project that can be anything from a photo essay comprising 5 - 7 photos to original artwork. As part of the application, please include an introduction (500 words or less) that describes the project. We do not accept projects that include video or audio elements.