Institute for Comparative and Regional Studies

The Institute for Comparative and Regional Studies (ICRS) was founded in 2020 at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies. At ICRS, our mission is to conduct research, facilitate dialogue, and provide advanced instruction in comparative and regional studies to address the pressing global challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The Institute’s cross-cutting work focuses on key themes central to a more peaceful, sustainable, and prosperous future worldwide.

Guided by Korbel's renowned faculty, our regional centers deliver impactful research and programming, supported by the institute’s resources and collaborative efforts.

The institute’s work focuses on four interconnected themes that are vital to building a peaceful, sustainable, and prosperous future worldwide. These themes—explored through the lens of regional and comparative studies—include:

• Human Security and Sustainable Peace
• Democracy, Governance, and Human Rights
• Prosperity with Sustainable Equity
• Regional Integration and Organization

ICRS Director Aaron Schneider reflects on a world shaped by economic instability, environmental crises, and escalating military conflicts while offering a vision for a more inclusive, democratic, and sustainable global future.