Institutes & Projects
The School of Media and Public Affairs (SMPA) is proud to support projects that educate and empower new voices through communication and research. These partners convene experts and thought leaders, train students with courses and workshops and keep SMPA and the George Washington University at the forefront of journalism and media as they evolve with technology and contemporary issues.
Institute for Public Diplomacy and Global Communication (IPDGC)
The Institute for Public Diplomacy and Global Communication (IPDGC) is a leader in research, practice, training and innovative thinking in the areas of global communication and public diplomacy. The Institute engages in a variety of activities, including prominent events, research and workshops. It also hosts scholars and leading government figures, including several Under Secretaries of State. IPDGC is jointly administered by GW's Elliott School of International Affairs.
The Media and Peace Building Project
The Media and Peacebuilding Project works towards a better understanding of how new information and communications technology (ICT) drive political violence and polarization and disseminates information and tools for peace builders on best practices in the new information environment. The project's three initial initiatives focus on mobile phones, political violence and peacebuilding in conflict-fragile states; reconciliation in the United States and peace journalism.
Planet Forward
Planet Forward engages a diverse audience of college students from across the country, and uses storytelling, media, and educational events to tell the stories of invention and innovation that can move the planet forward. It is the premier engagement tool for GW’s many sustainability initiatives.
The Project for Media and National Security
The Project for Media and National Security brings journalists together with senior American defense and national security officials and experts. Over 50 news organizations are members of the Defense Writers Group that convenes with leaders in the field to deepen Americans' understanding of national security issues. The journalists’ forum includes large national and regional newspapers, online outlets, international news wire services, magazines and trade publications.
Institute for Data, Democracy, and Politics (IDDP)
In the heart of the nation's capital, the Institute for Data, Democracy & Politics (IDDP) brings together top researchers from across academic disciplines, works side-by-side with and informs journalists from leading media outlets, advises and helps agenda set with policymakers in the U.S. and Europe, and engages with a variety of organizations that have significant societal influence and reach.
This work is of vital importance in an age when media manipulation, fake accounts, and malicious social media activities are undermining fundamental aspects of societal cohesion and democratic ideals. Abuse, harassment, hate speech, and disinformation abound, with foreign and domestic actors alike taking advantage of key features of digital platforms to target vulnerable and marginalized members of society.