/ səˈplaɪ ʧeɪn / terminology / RE: BUSINESS, ECONOMY, GLOBALISATION, INDUSTRY, TRADE A supply chain is the full journey of a product, from the raw materials used to make it, all the way to the final item reaching the customer. It includes every step along the way: sourcing materials, manufacturing, packaging, transporting, storing, and selling. Many businesses rely on complex supply chains that can span multiple countries and involve a wide network of suppliers, factories, and distributors. Understanding supply chains is important because they affect everything from product quality and cost to environmental impact and workers’ rights. Disruptions, like natural disasters, political conflict, or pandemics, can slow or break a supply chain, leading to shortages or delays. In recent years, there’s been growing attention on making supply chains more ethical, sustainable, and transparent. | Back to the Encyclopedia

/ səˈveɪ.ləns / terminology / RE: CIVIL LIBERTIES, SECURITY, SOCIETY Surveillance is the act of closely watching or monitoring people, places, or activities, usually for the purpose of gathering information. It can be carried out by governments, police, private companies, or even individuals, and often involves tools like CCTV cameras, phone tracking, online data collection, or undercover observation. Surveillance is often justified as a way to keep people safe, prevent crime, or protect national security. But it also raises serious questions about privacy, freedom, and consent, especially when people don’t know they’re being watched. In a digital age where so much of life happens online, surveillance is no longer just about physical spaces - it’s also about data, algorithms, and who controls the information being collected. | Back to the Encyclopedia

/ ˈpəʊ.lɪŋˌsteɪ.ʃən / terminology / RE: ELECTIONS, GOVERNMENT, POLITICS A polling station is the place where people go to vote during an election. It’s usually set up in a local building like a school, community centre, or church hall, and is open for a set number of hours on polling day. Inside, voters are given a ballot paper, mark their choice in private, and place it in a sealed box or submit it electronically. Polling stations are designed to make voting easy, safe, and accessible. They’re staffed by trained workers who check voter ID (where required), answer questions, and make sure the process runs smoothly. For many, going to a polling station is a key part of taking part in democracy—showing up, casting your vote, and having a say in how your country is run. | Back to the Encyclopedia

/ ˌæb.sən.tiː ˈbæl.ət / terminology / RE: ELECTIONS, GOVERNMENT, POLITICS, UNITED STATES An absentee ballot is a way for someone to vote when they can’t be at their polling station on election day. This might be because they’re travelling, living abroad, studying away from home, or dealing with illness or disability. Instead of voting in person, they receive their ballot by post (or sometimes electronically), fill it out, and return it by a set deadline. Absentee ballots help make elections more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that people can still have their say no matter where they are. The rules for who can use an absentee ballot and how to apply for one vary depending on the country or region, but the goal is the same: to protect the right to vote, even from a distance. | Back to the Encyclopedia

/ ˈmæl.kəm ɛ́ks / figure / RE: CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT, HUMAN RIGHTS, RACISM, UNITED STATES Malcolm X was a powerful African American civil rights leader, speaker, and activist during the 1950s and 1960s in the United States. Born Malcolm Little in 1925, he later changed his name to Malcolm X to reject the name passed down from slave owners. He became a prominent voice within the Nation of Islam, known for his sharp criticism of racism and his call for Black self-determination, pride, and resistance in the face of systemic oppression. In 1964, Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam and continued his activism independently. His views continued to evolve, and he began engaging more with international struggles and global ideas around human rights and unity. He was assassinated in 1965 at the age of 39. Today, Malcolm X remains a lasting symbol of courage, transformation, and the ongoing fight for justice and dignity. | Back to the Encyclopedia

Landing a job in international affairs is exciting, but too often, entry-level salaries don’t match the cost of living in global hubs. Before you sign that contract, let’s talk about how to spot a lowball offer—and negotiate the pay you deserve. You’ve spent years preparing for a career in international affairs, studying global trends, mastering languages, interning at policy organisations, and networking across borders. You’ve made it through the gruelling job application process, polished your CV and nailed the interview. Now, you’ve landed a job offer in an international NGO, a policy think tank, or an embassy. The opportunity sounds amazing, but when you glance at the salary, reality hits: How am I supposed to survive on this? For many early-career professionals in international affairs, low pay is an unfortunate norm. Many roles—particularly in NGOs, the UN system, development agencies, and diplomatic circles—offer salaries that barely cover living expenses in global hubs like New York, Geneva or Brussels. But just because you’re passionate about the work doesn’t mean you should accept a paycheque that undervalues you. So, how do you recognise when an offer is too low? And how can you negotiate a salary that allows you to thrive, not just scrape by? Let’s break it down. Step One: Understand the Costs of an International Career Unlike a corporate career where structured pay scales are more the norm, international affairs careers often involve complicated financial considerations: Moving costs: Relocating to global policy hubs like Washington D.C., or London, is expensive. Flights, visa fees, initial accommodation, and settling-in expenses can add up to thousands of dollars. High cost of living: Cities like Brussels that host many EU institutions, and UN headquarters in places like Geneva and New York, have notoriously high rents. Even entry-level apartments can cost between $1,500 and $3,000 per month. Short-term contracts: Many international roles start with fixed-term contracts, from 6 months up to 2 years. A low salary with no job security can leave you financially vulnerable. Unpaid internships and fellowships: Many organisations still offer unpaid or underpaid positions for "experience." If you're moving internationally for one, factor in how long you can afford to work for minimal pay. Student loans: If you’ve pursued a Master’s in International Relations or Development Studies in the UK or the US, you may be balancing student debt with a low NGO salary. Knowing these costs upfront helps you assess whether a salary offer is sustainable, or a fast track to financial strain. Step Two: Research Salary Standards for Your Sector International affairs is broad, so salaries vary across roles: NGOs & charities: Entry-level program officers or research associates can expect anywhere between $30,000 to $45,000 in the U.S. or €28,000 to €40,000 in Europe. However, salaries at smaller NGOs can be even lower. United Nations & multilateral organisations: The UN has structured pay scales (P-1, P-2 for entry-level professionals), starting at $40,000 to $75,000, depending on location and allowances. Government and diplomacy: Entry-level foreign service officers can earn between $50,000 to $75,000, with diplomatic allowances making a difference. Think tanks and research institutions: Pay varies widely, with junior research analysts earning $40,000 to $55,000, but higher salaries in well-funded institutions like the Brookings Institution or Chatham House. Use WIAN's dedicated job board, and other databases like Glassdoor and Devex for NGO professionals to benchmark what you should be earning. Step Three: Spot the Red Flags of a Lowball Offer If you see these warning signs, think twice before accepting: “We can’t offer more because it’s a mission-driven job.”  Passion for global issues doesn’t mean you should struggle financially. “We’ll review your salary after six months.”  Will they? And is there a clear, documented policy to ensure it happens? “Everyone starts at this level.”  That doesn’t mean the level is fair. If other organisations are paying more, question why. No mention of benefits. If there’s no discussion of health insurance, relocation support, or pension contributions, you could end up spending a significant chunk of your income covering these costs yourself. If a job offer means you’ll be spending more than 50% of your salary on rent alone, it’s a sign the pay isn’t sustainable. Now, these red flags are not automatic no's, and doesn't mean you should not accept the offer itself. However, you should think carefully about your exit strategy, and taking your progression into your own hands. Step Four: Negotiating a Fair Salary in International Affairs Many people assume international organisations won’t negotiate, but that’s not true. You can push back. Here’s how: Express enthusiasm first. Employers want to see your passion, but that doesn’t mean agreeing to anything. Say: “I’m really excited about this opportunity, and I’d love to discuss the details further.” Showcase your research. If the offer is low, back up your counteroffer with industry data: “Based on my research and discussions with peers, I was expecting a salary closer to [insert number]. Is there flexibility to adjust the offer?” Negotiate beyond salary. If they truly can’t increase the base pay, ask for: A relocation stipend Housing allowance (common in UN roles) Professional development funding Additional paid leave Depending on where you are in your job search, use competing offers as leverage. If you have multiple offers, mention that without being aggressive: “I’m considering another opportunity with a slightly higher salary and relocation support. I’d love to stay within your organisation - would you be open to matching that?” Step Five: Know When to Walk Away Sometimes, the best decision is to decline an offer that doesn’t align with your financial needs. If a salary is too low to sustain you in an expensive international city, it could mean constantly worrying about rent, sacrificing quality of life, or even having to leave the role prematurely. A few questions to ask yourself before accepting: Will I be able to live comfortably after paying rent, taxes, and basic expenses? Does this salary allow me to save, invest, or pay off debts? Are there clear growth opportunities, or will I be stuck at this pay level for years? If the answers don’t align with your goals, it’s okay to walk away. Women in international affairs are often told that working in global development, diplomacy, or humanitarian aid is about the mission, not the money. But here’s the truth: you can care about the mission and still get paid fairly. Your expertise, skills, and time have value. Make sure your paycheck reflects that. So next time an offer lands in your inbox, don’t rush to say yes. Read the fine print, crunch the numbers, and ask yourself: Can I actually build the career I want on this salary? If the answer is no, negotiate, push back, or walk away. Because you deserve to be paid for the impact you bring to the world.

Paternity leave isn’t just for dads—it helps families, workplaces, and gender equality. When caregiving is shared, everyone wins. For decades, maternity leave has been the go-to workplace policy when it comes to supporting new parents. And sure, moms need that time—but what about dads? Paternity leave, whether paid or unpaid, is just as crucial. It keeps families strong, helps children thrive, and challenges outdated gender roles. And yet, in too many places, it’s either an afterthought or under threat. It’s time to talk about why paternity leave isn’t just good for fathers—it’s good for everyone. So why does paternity leave matter? Well, it's firstly a gender equality issue. We can’t talk about gender equality without talking about caregiving. When fathers take paternity leave, they’re not just bonding with their kids—they’re shifting cultural norms. Studies show that dads who take paternity leave are more involved in childcare long-term, which helps balance domestic responsibilities. This means moms aren’t automatically expected to carry the load, allowing them to return to work sooner if they want to. Some say it’s better for kids. Want well-adjusted kids? Let their dads take time off. Research consistently shows that babies with actively involved fathers tend to have better emotional, social, and cognitive development. Early bonding sets the tone for future relationships, and when dads are present from the start, children reap the benefits. And yet, many fathers feel they can’t afford to take time off or fear the professional repercussions. That’s a problem we need to fix. Paternity leave is good for business, and the evidence is overwhelming. Companies that prioritise parental leave see higher employee satisfaction and lower turnover. When both parents are supported in the workplace, they come back more focused, less stressed, and more productive. And yet, many fathers feel they can’t afford to take time off or fear the professional repercussions. That’s a problem we need to fix. The global state of paternity leave paints a stark picture. Falling behind, the United States remains one of the only developed countries without a national paid parental leave policy. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) offers up to 12 weeks off, but it’s unpaid—so for many, it’s simply not an option. Some states, like California and New York, have introduced paid leave programs, but this kind of support shouldn’t depend on your zip code. Groups like Paid Leave for All continue to push for national reform, but change is slow. There is room for improvement in the UK, where statutory paternity leave is a measly two weeks and the pay is barely enough to cover a grocery bill (£172.48 per week or 90% of earnings, whichever is lower). While the Shared Parental Leave (SPL) system technically allows parents to split up to 50 weeks of leave, uptake remains low, largely because families can’t afford to take it. Organisations like Pregnant Then Screwed and The Fatherhood Institute are working to change that. Setting the standard (sort of), the EU mandates that member states provide at least 10 days of paid paternity leave, but some countries go well beyond that. Sweden is the gold standard, offering 480 days of paid parental leave—90 of which are reserved for each parent. Finland recently revamped its system, giving nearly seven months of paid leave per parent. Still, not every EU country is keeping pace. In France, for example, economic pressures are threatening paternity leave policies, and campaigners are fighting to protect what’s already in place. The biggest barrier to paternity leave isn’t just policy—it’s affordability. In countries where paternity leave exists, it’s often so poorly paid that fathers simply can’t afford to take it. In the UK, nearly three-quarters of dads say they’d like to take their full leave but can’t because of financial constraints. In the U.S., many dads don’t even qualify for unpaid FMLA leave due to company size or employment length. It’s a crisis that forces fathers back to work at the exact moment they should be bonding with their newborns. So why do we need to keep pushing? We know that pressure works - see progressive paternity policy rollouts from companies like Spotify, Facebook, and Microsoft, but government action is still lagging behind. Fixing this means more than just offering leave—it means funding it in a way that makes taking it realistic for all families. If paternity leave exists, it needs to be protected and expanded. If it doesn’t exist, we need to fight for it. Fathers shouldn’t have to choose between being present for their newborns and keeping their jobs. And the responsibility of early childcare shouldn’t default to women just because the system makes it difficult for men to step up. Advocating for paternity leave isn’t about minimising the challenges women face in the workplace—it’s about making sure everyone gets the support they need. When dads take leave, mums get the option to return to work sooner. When caregiving is seen as a shared responsibility, women are less likely to be penalised professionally for taking time off. And let’s not forget non-traditional families. Parental leave policies need to be inclusive of all caregivers; single parents, same-sex couples, and any other family structure that doesn’t fit into the outdated "mum stays home, dad goes to work" model. The end goal? A society where all caregivers, regardless of gender or family structure, have the right to be present for their families without sacrificing their careers or financial security. Paternity leave isn’t a perk. It’s not a favour. It’s a fundamental part of what modern workplaces should offer. And it’s time we started treating it that way. So, what can you do? Support campaigns like Paid Leave for All in the U.S., The Fatherhood Institute in the UK, and UNICEF’s global parental leave advocacy. Contact your representatives. Share your experiences. The more we talk about this, the harder it becomes to ignore.

When Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson appeared at the 2025 presidential inauguration wearing a custom-made collar over her judicial robe, the message was unmistakable. In Vogue’s recent piece, the publication explores how every detail of the collar speaks to a deeper narrative of visibility, dignity, and cultural pride. It’s no secret that professional dress codes, especially for women, are often shaped by Eurocentric ideals. For Black women navigating high-stakes and highly visible roles, particularly in global institutions, style is never just style. It becomes a form of coded language, a daily negotiation between self-expression and perceived respectability. Justice Jackson’s choice was anything but neutral. The custom collar honored her heritage, asserted her individuality, and affirmed the growing truth that professionalism can, and should, include cultural identity. As a black woman founder with visible dreadlocs, this resonates deeply with me. Our community is filled with women who are constantly navigating questions like: Can I wear my natural hair to that interview? Will this accent mark me as “other” in the boardroom? Do I need to tone down how I present myself to be taken seriously? “The collar’s symbolism is crystal clear: strength and softness, grit and grace—woven together in Black womanhood.” Jackson’s quiet act of sartorial resistance reminds us that authority and authenticity are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they can—and must—coexist. And as international professionals, especially women of colour, we are constantly expanding the definition of what leadership looks like. Whether you’re entering a new market, launching your career abroad, or simply trying to stand your ground in a global workplace, remember: how you show up matters. Your presence is powerful, and the choices you make, down to your jewellery, your name pronunciation, or your hijab, are valid, beautiful, and deserving of space. We want to hear from you: How do you express your identity through style in your professional life? Drop a comment below to join the conversation, and r ead the full, original Vogue article here: https://www.vogue.com/article/justice-ketanji-brown-jackson-symbolic-collar-2025-inauguration .

We are WIAN. A global sisterhood of ambitious women building meaningful careers without borders, limits, or apology. We exist because talent is everywhere, but access, community, and visibility are not. And we are here to change that. For women navigating international careers, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, the system often feels like a maze with invisible rules. The connections don’t come easy. The guidance isn’t always tailored. And the dream can feel like it comes at the cost of identity, wellbeing, or joy. WIAN was born to rewrite that narrative. We deserve more than unpaid internships that only reward privilege. More than vague job descriptions with no pathway. More than diversity statements that don’t lead to real representation in leadership. We deserve careers that are rich with possibility — supported, visible, and well-paid. "The world is global. Your career should be too." We believe women deserve careers that match their ambition and their values — careers that thrive across time zones, industries, and cultures. Whether she’s negotiating a contract in Brussels, pivoting careers in Nairobi, or freelancing from Lisbon, every WIAN woman should feel powerful, equipped, and seen. The world is global. Your career should be too. Our roots are personal. WIAN was founded out of a lifelong question: What would it feel like to finally belong in the rooms we worked so hard to enter? To feel ready, not just grateful? To feel celebrated, not tolerated? This is more than a network. It's a movement. A new professional standard. One built on excellence, pride, and mutual uplift. We connect women not just to opportunities, but to each other. To coaches who get it. To peers who understand the grind. Community that holds space for both vulnerability and triumph. We are curators of high-calibre guidance, advice, and career support — everything a woman needs to show up in her fullness on the global stage. From vetted career experts to bold thought leaders, every choice we make is intentional, aspirational, and rooted in care. WIAN is for the woman who wants to earn more, live well, and move with purpose. She wants options. She wants her confidence back. She wants to stop playing small — in her style, her voice, her rates, and her choices. She doesn’t need to be fixed. She needs to be backed. And we will back her — fiercely. We are not here for hustle culture or surface-level diversity. We’re building a new rhythm — one that honours your career, your values, and your lifestyle. We are here for deep systems change, for unlearning and reimagining, for building something that lasts. We are here to be the thing we once needed — and now have the power to create. We build. We elevate. We expand. We curate world-class career support and connect our members to vetted coaches and services tailored to the realities of global work. We bring you conversations, tools, and people who get it, and who can guide you through salary negotiations, strategic pivots, and personal rebrands with clarity and care. And yes, we celebrate lifestyle, too. Because personal branding is not vanity — it’s strategy. Because fashion can be power. Because showing up as your full self in any room is a revolutionary act. We see style and substance as partners, not opposites. Your ambition deserves visibility. Your brilliance deserves amplification. WIAN is both sanctuary and springboard. It’s where community meets career growth. Where a new generation of global women professionals are rewriting what it means to succeed on our terms. We are intentional. We are aspirational. We are unapologetically high-standard. Our mission is simple: empower women with the tools and social capital to thrive in their international careers — and to do so with pride. This is the space we were always looking for. We are WIAN, and we are building the future, together.

A mathematics degree might not seem like the obvious ticket to an international career, but if you look beyond the equations, you’ll see that it’s one of the most versatile and globally relevant degrees you can have. Math is, quite literally, the universal language. Whether you're decoding complex financial models in London, optimising supply chains in Singapore, or programming AI-driven technology in Berlin, a strong foundation in mathematics can take you anywhere. Mathematics possesses a borderless power. It doesn’t change based on geography. The formulas, theorems, and algorithms you study in one country apply just as effectively in another. This makes mathematics an incredibly mobile skill set, one that isn’t constrained by language barriers or local market conditions. It’s why so many mathematicians and data scientists find themselves working across borders, integrating into different professional and cultural environments. Take, for example, quantitative finance. If you understand risk modelling, statistical analysis, or algorithmic trading, you can work in the financial hubs of New York, Tokyo, or Zurich without missing a beat. Similarly, actuarial science: one of the most lucrative career paths stemming from a maths degree, is in high demand worldwide. As long as there’s risk to calculate, there’s a job waiting for you somewhere. It's worth noting that mathematics underpins some of the most essential roles in basic finance. Charities, corporations, and governments around the world all rely on finance professionals—accountants, finance business partners, payroll officers—who ensure expenses are tracked, payroll is processed, and operations stay compliant with both local and national regulations. These roles may not be glamorous, but they are mission-critical everywhere, making them a stable and transferable career option for maths graduates looking to build a truly international professional life. A mathematics degree is a key to high-demand fields. It isn’t just about pure numbers; it’s the backbone of several high-growth industries that are experiencing a global talent shortage. Fields like data science, artificial intelligence, cryptography, and cybersecurity rely heavily on mathematical expertise. Companies in these industries are desperate for people who can solve complex problems, analyse large datasets, and develop algorithms that power everything from healthcare advancements to fintech innovations. Tech companies, in particular, are known for their international hiring practices. If you’re interested in machine learning, and skilled in probability or statistical modelling, you could find yourself working for a global giant like Google, Amazon, or Tesla—or a fast-growing start-up in Dubai, Amsterdam, or Hong Kong. The demand is there, and the opportunities are endless. A mathematics degree also serves as a passport to a global education and research network. Academia and research are pathways to an international career, and mathematics is a discipline that thrives on global collaboration. Universities and research institutions frequently fund international projects, exchange programmes, and collaborations that allow mathematicians to travel, teach, and contribute to cutting-edge discoveries across the world. Whether you’re diving into climate modelling in Canada, exploring quantum computing in Switzerland, or tackling economic forecasting in China, the possibilities for research-driven global careers are vast. Plus, let’s not forget the international conferences, workshops, and summits where mathematicians gather to exchange ideas. You could find yourself presenting a paper in Paris or attending a symposium in Cape Town, your expertise can open doors to networking opportunities that transcend borders. A maths degree also provides the flexibility to work, and live, anywhere. One of the most underrated benefits of a mathematics degree is the flexibility it provides. With the rise of remote work and digital nomad lifestyles, many mathematicians and data professionals no longer need to be tied to a single location. Many companies now hire data analysts, financial consultants, and AI specialists on a remote or hybrid basis, allowing professionals to live in one country while working for an employer halfway across the world. For those who love adventure, consulting is another fantastic option. Global consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Deloitte frequently hire quantitative analysts and data specialists to tackle complex business problems across industries and continents. With a strong maths background, you could be working on optimising logistics for an airline in Brazil one month and developing predictive models for a fashion retailer in Milan the next. More than just numbers, a maths degree provides a mindset that translates globally. Beyond technical skills, a maths degree gives you something even more valuable: a way of thinking. Logical reasoning, problem-solving, analytical thinking—these are universally prized skills in nearly every industry. Employers across the world seek professionals who can approach challenges systematically and come up with innovative solutions. It’s why so many maths graduates find themselves in leadership roles, even outside of traditionally mathematical fields. From policy-making in Washington to tech start-ups in Nairobi, the ability to break down complex problems and create data-driven solutions is a game-changer. Whether you’re working in business, science, government, or entrepreneurship, your mathematical mindset is your competitive edge. The bottom line? If you have a mathematics degree, you’re not confined to academia or a life of endless calculations. You have a passport to a truly global career. Whether it’s finance, tech, consulting, research, or even entrepreneurship, the world needs people who can think analytically and solve complex problems. Your degree is not just about numbers—it’s about opportunities, and those opportunities span continents. So if you’re looking for a career that’s as international as it is intellectually rewarding, don’t underestimate the power of maths. It’s a degree that can take you places, literally.

WIAN was founded in 2017, to address the inequality women, young people and minorities face building their international careers. As an organisation founded by black women in the international affairs industry, breaking down barriers to entry, promotion and support was, and still is at the heart of all that we do. 90% of our team is from an ethnic minority background, and each year our annual mentorship scheme, which you can find out more here, sees over 100 young women from across Africa, Asia, Australasia and Europe receive personal and professional support as they begin their international careers, in whichever sector this may be. We unequivocally and unashamedly stand in solidarity with all of those who are protesting and fighting against racial inequality and systemic racism in all of its forms. There is still much work to be done in the industry to address the historic and long-lasting impacts of racism, and we hope to see the conversation continue, and be followed with meaningful action. Continue on for more educational resources, and keep an eye out for announcements on how to get involved with us. Please note this page is continually updated, and the resources are for information purposes only, and should not be taken as expert or legal advice. Race, Racism and Development, Kalpana Wilson This book tackles the relationship between the global north and south, and highlights the racialisation of development issues such as human rights, ethnic conflict, public health, history and culture. Why Race Matters in International Relations, Kelebogile Zvobgo and Meredith Loken This opinion piece explores how western dominance and white privilege have gripped mainstream international relations theory.