Global challenges, global thinking: Step into the world of global affairs

Global affairs isn’t just an academic field — it’s an essential part of how the world functions every day. The rise of globalization, digital communication and global crises has made international dynamics part of our daily lives. Decades ago, understanding global affairs might have been reserved for diplomats, economists, and policy workers; today, it’s relevant to everyone. 

Global affairs is the study of how countries, international organizations, multinational corporations and other global actors interact on the world stage. It explores the complex web of diplomacy, economics, security and human rights that influence everything from conflict and cooperation to trade and climate policy. 

What happens beyond a nation’s borders has a direct and growing impact on what happens within them. In today’s highly interconnected world, global events — from economic shifts and technological innovation to health crises and environmental change — are closely tied to a country’s internal well-being and security. No country can fully separate itself from the movement of people, ideas, goods, capital and global challenges. Understanding how local and global dynamics are linked is essential for navigating the complex realities of modern life. The next generation must be equipped to interpret global developments, understand their implications and respond thoughtfully to a rapidly changing world.

Whether you’re choosing a career path, voting in an election or advocating for change, learning about global affairs is now a prerequisite for meaningful engagement. In a world where challenges increasingly transcend borders, understanding global affairs has never been more essential.

From the classroom to the global stage: Why global affairs matters

Global affairs helps us make sense of the systems that govern our interconnected world. Whether it’s a diplomatic negotiation at the United Nations, an international trade agreement, a response to a humanitarian crisis or a coordinated climate policy effort, global affairs provides the lens through which we understand how decisions are made, who has power and what values are at stake.

This field blends elements of political science, economics, sociology, history and law to analyze how global systems operate and evolve. But it’s more than theory — it’s about developing the analytical tools and global mindset needed to respond to real-world challenges and pursue impactful careers across sectors. 

It also introduces students to key frameworks, including:

• Contemporary global issues.
• The relationship between domestic and foreign policy.
• Different forms of government and their influence on decision-making.
• The structure and role of international institutions and global governance.
• The resurgence of nationalism, sovereignty and self-determination.
• Drivers of conflict and security.
• Broader geopolitical, political, economic, historical and social trends.
• The approaches and tools of foreign policy used to address global challenges.

Where global affairs meets real-world impact

In practice, global affairs professionals tackle critical issues head-on, working across diplomacy, economics, security and human rights to shape policies and drive change on a global scale to build a more stable, just and interconnected global community. Here are some of the core subject areas that define the field of global affairs:

1. Diplomacy and international cooperation

Diplomacy is the art of negotiation between nations. It’s what keeps peace talks alive, forms strategic alliances and builds international treaties. Global affairs experts in foreign ministries and multilateral organizations work behind the scenes to align interests and uphold international law. From multilateral institutions like the United Nations to bilateral summits between world leaders, diplomacy plays a critical role in conflict prevention and global problem-solving. Understanding global power structures, historical context and cultural dynamics is key to managing relationships between nations and avoiding escalation.

2. Global economics and development

Economic globalization has reshaped how countries interact, leading to complex supply chains, financial interdependence and policy coordination. But it has also revealed stark inequalities and vulnerabilities. The normalization of relations between countries shows how diplomatic engagement can shift regional power balances and open doors for cooperation in areas like trade and security. A background in global affairs provides the analytical tools to assess risk, interpret global economic trends and build policies that promote inclusive development.

3. Human rights and global justice

Human rights are a cornerstone of international law and global governance, but their implementation is uneven. Across the world, questions of dignity and sovereignty remain deeply contested and subject to political, cultural and institutional challenges. A global affairs education gives you the framework to understand how international norms are enforced — and how to work toward justice in a complex global environment.

4. Global and national security

Security now encompasses more than just military power. Today, it includes cyber threats, terrorism and pandemics — all of which require international collaboration to address. These challenges often move faster than traditional political responses, making global coordination, intelligence-sharing and preventative diplomacy more important than ever. A comprehensive understanding of global affairs equips professionals to assess risk, manage crises and contribute to sustainable security strategies that protect both national interests and global stability.

5. Climate change & environmental policy

Environmental policy analysts and diplomats work together to negotiate targets, share technology and finance adaptation efforts. Solving global challenges like climate change requires a shared understanding of international relations, governance and economics. As climate impacts intensify across borders, international cooperation becomes not just beneficial, but essential to achieving meaningful progress. A background in global affairs empowers future leaders to navigate the political, economic and ethical complexities of climate action on a global scale.

Understand the world, influence the suture: study global affairs with ASU

Arizona State University’s Introduction to Global Affairs course is designed to give you a strong foundation in understanding the forces that shape our interconnected world. Developed in collaboration with the Council on Foreign Relations, the course features exclusive insights from global policymakers, diplomats and scholars who are actively shaping international policy. 

Through real-world case studies and expert-led content, you’ll analyze global issues through the lens of international policy, building valuable skills in critical thinking and global analysis. Along the way, you’ll uncover how high-level decisions are made and why they matter, preparing you for future academic study or careers in global affairs, public service, policy-making and other internationally focused fields. 

The course is 100% online, self-paced and structured for flexibility — making it accessible whether you’re a student, working professional, or lifelong learner. With a low-cost, pay-when-satisfied model ($25 to start, $400 per credit upon completion), the course is both affordable and credit-eligible, offering real value for learners looking to make a long-term impact in global affairs.Whether you’re an aspiring diplomat, journalist or just someone who wants to make sense of the world, Introduction to Global Affairs offers the knowledge and tools you need to take informed action. Think globally and learn with purpose from content developed by the Council on Foreign Relations. Enroll now in Introduction to Global Affairs.