Instruction: Taking on the role of advisor to the newly appointed US Ambassador of one of the countries covered in this course, students will write a policy brief of 2000 words on a policy oriented topic of their choosing (Topic a/ below is chosen).
The purpose of the briefing paper is to provide the Ambassador with a concise overview of:
i) The existing policy, including its history;
ii) The current problems and challenges in this policy area;
iii) The major stakeholders affected by and involved in this policy; and
iv) A brief discussion of current proposals for reforming the policy. Some typical examples key policy areas are:
a/ Immigration policy - Undocumented workers or Refugees/Asylum seekers
b/ Economic policy - Labor Markets/Unemployment or Financial Regulation
c/Environmental policy - Emissions reduction or Clean Energy
d/ Family policy - Parental leave or Child care.
E/Domestic security policy - Terrorism
f/ Multiculturalism -
Recognition of minority cultures Students are expected to address the following questions:
1. What is the existing policy? What are its primary components?
2. What are the problems with the existing policy? What challenges are being posed to the existing policy?
3. Who are the main players related to this policy?
4. What are the most recent proposals for reform?