Background

The Global Affairs Journal was founded in November 2024 at the University of California, Santa Barbara, when students taking the same International Relations course shared their admiration for the subject. One student proposed this initiative, which led to the establishment of this student organization, grounded in the recognition that only through inclusivity of diverse opinions can we adopt an empathetic approach to controversial global affairs.

Our Mission

The Global Affairs Journal seeks to showcase the work of UCSB students exploring a diverse range of pressing global issues. We select contributors who exhibit a strong commitment to understanding international politics and engaging in rigorous academic inquiry. Through empirical research and reflective writing, GAJ aims to empower students to share perspectives shaped by their unique lived experiences and cultural backgrounds.

Our mission is to foster a deeper awareness of global interconnectivity and promote dialogue grounded in empathy, insight, and scholarship. By offering a platform for thoughtful expression and informed discussion, we hope to inspire our community to recognize a shared humanity and pursue meaningful engagement with the world.

The Executive Board

The Executive Board was selectively crafted to form a dedicated and collaborative team responsible for overseeing the inaugural edition of the Global Affairs Journal. Each member brings a unique set of skills, academic interests, and global perspectives that contribute to the journal’s mission.

Building a Community

In our first quarter of operation, we received over 25 applications—an encouraging sign of the growing demand for the platform that the Global Affairs Journal offers. This response affirms our belief that students are eager for spaces that value rigorous scholarship and diverse global perspectives.

The selected student authors and members of the Editorial Board embody the academic excellence and thoughtful engagement we strive to uphold. Their contributions reflect a shared commitment to informed dialogue and a deeper understanding of the world around us.