IISD's work is organized into specialized departments that conduct research, deliver training, and implement programmes across the spectrum of international social development. Each department collaborates with the others to deliver integrated, multidisciplinary solutions.

Department of Studies & Training

The Department for Studies and Training is the academic backbone of IISD. It manages relations with universities, Indian and foreign academies, and supports training activities from a technical and pedagogical standpoint. The department coordinates all study activities, elaborates and proposes ideas for new courses, identifies partner universities, and selects expert faculty.

Key Activities:

  • Design and delivery of professional training programmes for diplomats, government officials, and civil society leaders
  • Coordination of joint research projects with academic institutions worldwide
  • Development of curriculum and learning materials on international relations and social development
  • Organization of lectures, seminars, and academic roundtables
  • Management of IISD's fellowship and internship programmes

Department of International Relations & Cooperation

This department promotes dialogue and cooperation among nations and non-state actors. It conducts research on geopolitical dynamics, international security, regional integration, and multilateral governance. The department serves as IISD's primary interface with foreign governments, international organizations, and diplomatic missions.

Key Activities:

  • Research on contemporary international relations and global governance
  • Organization of international conferences and track-II diplomacy initiatives
  • Exchange programmes for scholars, officials, and young leaders
  • Policy analysis on regional cooperation frameworks (SAARC, ASEAN, BRICS, etc.)
  • Engagement with UN bodies and intergovernmental organizations

Department of Human Rights & Social Development

Dedicated to the promotion and protection of human and civil rights, this department conducts research, provides advocacy support, and implements field-level initiatives. It works to reduce inequalities, combat discrimination, and strengthen the capacity of civil society organizations to engage with international human rights mechanisms.

Key Activities:

  • Research on human rights norms, implementation gaps, and accountability
  • Training on UN human rights mechanisms (UPR, treaty bodies, special procedures)
  • Advocacy for marginalized and vulnerable communities
  • Community-level social development projects in South Asia
  • Reporting and shadow reporting to UN human rights bodies

Department of Sustainable Development

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this department focuses on research and action related to environmental sustainability, economic inclusion, climate resilience, and sustainable urban and rural development. It bridges the gap between global policy frameworks and local implementation.

Key Activities:

  • Research on SDG implementation and progress measurement
  • Policy briefs on climate change adaptation and mitigation
  • Capacity-building for local governments on sustainable planning
  • Projects on renewable energy, water security, and sustainable agriculture
  • Participation in UN environmental forums and climate negotiations

Department of Informal Diplomacy

This department explores the evolving landscape of 21st-century diplomacy, including track-II and track-III diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, digital diplomacy, and the role of non-state actors in international relations. It develops new instruments and methodologies for diplomatic engagement beyond traditional state-to-state channels.

Key Activities:

  • Research on informal diplomacy and multi-track approaches
  • Workshops on digital diplomacy and social media for diplomats
  • Cultural exchange programmes and people-to-people diplomacy initiatives
  • Analysis of the role of NGOs, cities, and corporations in global governance
  • Publication of papers on emerging diplomatic practices

Department of Publications & Communications

This department manages IISD's knowledge dissemination and communications strategy. It produces research reports, policy briefs, books, and the Institute's flagship newsletter, ensuring that IISD's research reaches policymakers, academics, practitioners, and the public.

Key Activities:

  • Publication of IISD research reports, working papers, and policy briefs
  • Production of the Institute's newsletter and digital communications
  • Management of IISD's website, social media, and media relations
  • Editorial support for conference proceedings and edited volumes
  • Translation and localization of key publications