Project ID	188
Project Name	Data Driven Diplomacy: Strategic Planning Dashboard
Office	Planning, Performance and Systems
Embassy
Bureau	Foreign Assistance
Project Description	We are looking to collaborate with academic partners to more effectively use and display strategic planning data. Students will design an interactive dashboard that compiles data from several datasets using Power BI and then displays that information in an intuitive, graphical format. The dashboard must update automatically to reflect new data. The Department of State is transitioning to more data-driven diplomacy. This project asks academic partners to create an intuitive dashboard using Power BI that integrates multiple data sources. As part of this process, students will need to formulate data using SharePoint, Excel, Power Automate, and Power Apps to ensure that data is concise, easily updated, and automated. Students will then use this data to create reports that visualize trends and important information. Such reports may include but are not limited to strategy updates, training, and other strategy tracking metrics. Technological knowledge of Power BI and other Microsoft Power apps is essential to this project.
Final Product Format	A Power BI dashboard on the Managing for Results website that automatically updates with data from multiple datasets.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Computer Science
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Information and Communication Technology
Additional Information	Maybe developed in an academic environment, but must work in a State Department OpenNet operating environment.
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	190
Project Name	Telling the U.S. Economic Impact Story in Southeast Asia
Office	Economic and Political Affairs
Embassy	Singapore
Bureau	U.S. Mission
Project Description	The United States is the top investor in many Southeast Asian countries and among the top trade partners for most economies in the region. American companies provide higher wages and greater career development opportunities than local and regional competitors and are widely viewed as employers of choice. Trade with the United States helps develop advanced industries. And U.S. FDI powers the sectors Southeast Asian governments most seek to grow. But public and elite perception undercount the U.S. contribution to the region’s economy. Media across the region routinely emphasize the centrality of the PRC in Southeast Asia’s economic development, though the data show a more nuanced picture. This project seeks a team of students with experience in data analytics and visualization, economics, graphic design, and/or communications, to provide a broad-ranging analysis of the United States’ economic impact in Singapore and beyond, in the form of compelling, easily digestible, and fun infographics, one- pagers, or digital visual-analytic products.
Final Product Format	Compelling, easily digestible, and fun infographics, one-pagers, or digital visual-analytic products.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Statistics
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	191
Project Name	Niger Online Disinformation Tracker (NODT)
Office	Embassy Niamey - Public Affairs Office
Embassy	Niger
Bureau	African Affairs
Project Description	In the rapidly evolving digital landscape of Niger, the proliferation of disinformation poses a significant threat to democratic governance and stabilization. The Niger Online Disinformation Tracker (NODT) is a proposed online platform designed to equip stakeholders in Niger with the tools necessary to identify and counteract disinformation. This project seeks to harness low-cost and accessible technology to monitor and analyze digital media across Niger, offering real-time insights into the sources and spread of misleading content. By providing a centralized, accessible hub for data analysis, NODT aims to enhance the capacity of journalists, civil society, and government bodies to uphold information integrity and foster a well-informed public discourse. The project will entail the development of an intuitive interface that aggregates and visualizes data from a variety of online sources, using natural language processing and machine learning to track disinformation trends. We hope this project will create a robust analytical framework that can adapt to the unique challenges of Niger’s media environment. This project will not only advance efforts to counter disinformation but also engage a new generation of tech-savvy leaders in the fight against disinformation. NODT promises to be a critical resource for enhancing democratic engagement and countering the destabilizing effects of false information in Niger.
Final Product Format	The final product format for the Niger Online Disinformation Tracker (NODT) project could be envisioned as a comprehensive digital platform that includes the following components: 1. Interactive Dashboard: A user-friendly interface that displays real-time analytics, trends, and visualizations of disinformation campaigns across various media channels in Niger. This dashboard will allow users to quickly understand the scope and impact of false information circulating online. 2. Analytical Reports: Regularly updated reports that provide deeper insights into specific disinformation incidents, their origins, and the effectiveness of countermeasures. These reports can be used for briefing stakeholders and guiding policy decisions. 3. Training Module: An integrated component designed to educate users on identifying and countering disinformation. This module would include tutorials, best practices, and resources to enhance the skills of journalists, civil society members, and government officials. 4. Alert System: A notification feature that alerts users to sudden spikes in disinformation or emerging trends that require immediate attention. This format combines real-time data processing with educational resources and analytical reporting to create a dynamic tool that not only tracks but also combats the spread of disinformation in Niger.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Information and Communication Technology
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Communications
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	196
Project Name	Mapping Climate-Health Commitments in the Pacific Region
Office	Pacific Environment, Science, Technology and Health Hub
Embassy	Fiji
Bureau	U.S. Mission
Project Description	The inaugural Pan-Pacific Conference on Climate and Health seeks to establish a network of climate-health practitioners in the Pacific region. One of the initial tasks will be to establish what commitments have been made on climate-health impacts, assess progress against those commitments, and then identify short-term/long-term action items that can drive progress. The project will focus on collecting open source commitments from Pacific Island declarations, COP26 and COP28 (COP29?) commitments, regional commitments such as those from the Pacific Island Forum, and National Action Plans. The next stage will be liaising with Pacific Island governments, via the climate-health focal points participating in the climate-health practitioners network or as identified by the Pacific Island Government to produce a stock-take on progress. The final portion will be the responsibility of the Pacific Island climate-health practitioners network to identify the short-term and long-term action items that they can recommend to the Pacific Heads of Health. Partners would include Department of State/USAID, WHO, the Pacific Community, Pacific Island Health Officer Association, and other UN agencies.
Final Product Format	Editable table of commitments. Flexibility in final form but will need to be accessible by Pacific Island countries for editing.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Global Health
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Climate Change
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	206
Project Name	Identifying Potential EXBS Partner Countries
Office	Export Control Cooperation
Embassy
Bureau	International Security and Nonproliferation
Project Description	This project will focus on outlining criteria to be considered when the Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) program is deciding to engage a particular country. Criteria to engage may include proliferation risk, current strategic trade system status, strength of customs/port of entry operations and border security systems, and other issues related to export controls. The project POCs will provide information on the current method at the start of the project for the research team to validate. In consultation with the project POCs, research teams may test their criteria on a few countries that they would like to propose as potential new partners.
Final Product Format	The final product should include validation of the current partner criteria and recommendations for additional criteria. This information should be presented in a final presentation and submitted as a policy paper no longer than 20 pages. Research teams are strongly encouraged to use data visualizations and infographics where possible to support their research.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Arms Control/Non-Proliferation
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Additional Information	For more information on the EXBS program, please see: https://www.state.gov/export- control-and-related-border-security-program/
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	208
Project Name	Proliferation Financing and Public-Private Partnerships
Office	Export Control Cooperation
Embassy
Bureau	International Security and Nonproliferation
Project Description	This research project aims to explore and enhance the role of public-private partnerships in combating proliferation financing. The study will identify best practices from existing frameworks and successful case studies, while also investigating unexplored opportunities and innovative approaches to improve collaboration between the public and private sectors. By analyzing current challenges and proposing policy recommendations, the research seeks to provide actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners to effectively address proliferation financing.
Final Product Format	20-page research paper and presentation.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Arms Control/Non-Proliferation
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Additional Information	Online Resources and Databases: â€¢ FATF's website for guidelines and recommendations. â€¢ The U.S. Department of the Treasury's website for updates and resources on proliferation financing. â€¢ To learn more about the EXBS Program, please visit: https://www.state.gov/export-control-and-related-border-security-program/
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	211
Project Name	Ecosystem Restoration After Invasive Species Removal at the U.S.-Mexico Border
Office	U.S. Consulate Nuevo Laredo - Political-Economic Section
Embassy	Mexico
Bureau	U.S. Mission
Project Description	Invasive species plants on the Rio Grande are extremely water thirsty, crowd native vegetation, and conceal illegal activity on the riverbanks. The border cities of Laredo, Texas, and Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, have embarked on a joint effort to create a border binational park to promote ecosystem preservation and improve water and air quality on the border; the removal of invasive species is a preliminary step. After removal, the riverbanks will need restoration work and long-term conservation plans. This project would include recommendations to help Mexican partners identify best practices on ecosystem restoration specific to the U.S.-Mexico border at Texas and Tamaulipas. The best practices can include plant species native to the area, most suited to combat regrowth of invasive species, and equipped to promote ecosystem health.
Final Product Format	List of Recommendations & Best Practices
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Science and Technology
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Climate Change
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	214
Project Name	Assessing the Efficacy of PRC Investments in Mexico's Ports
Office	Office of Mexico Affairs
Embassy
Bureau	Western Hemisphere Affairs
Project Description	In light of the incoming Sheinbaum administration, WHA/Mexico is considering security sector policy and programming opportunities in Mexico with the goal of increasing U.S.- Mexico security sector coordination and - more generally - to increase the capacity of Mexico's security sector to prevent, address, and counter crime. To that end, WHA/Mexico would like to better understand the impact of Chinese investments in Mexico’s ports to inform U.S. programming decisions (both to counter Chinese influence and most effectively spend U.S. government funds). Ideally, the project would shed light on the PRC's investments in port security (by Mexican state) and demonstrate the impact - positive and negative - at the state and local level.
Final Product Format	A presentation that demonstrates where/how much China is investing in Mexico's ports by State; a report that highlights successes and failures of China's port security investments; and a two-page memo with recommendations for U.S. investments to counter Chinese influence and/or seize opportunities for building the capacity of Mexico's port security entities.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	East Asian Pacific Studies
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Western Hemisphere Studies
Additional Information	WHA/MEX will engage China analysts for their recommendations for particular states of focus based on U.S. policy priorities/national security interests. Once student teams are accepted, WHA/MEX would work to refine the project focus.
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	216
Project Name	Developing Best Practices for Sustainable Development at U.S.-Mexico’s Largest Port
Office	U.S. Consulate General Nuevo Laredo Political-Economic Section
Embassy	Mexico
Bureau	U.S. Mission
Project Description	Representing the top ports for Mexico and the United States, the border cities of Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, and Laredo, Texas, are experiencing steady growth as U.S.-Mexico trade continues to grow. In 2023, $324 billion of goods passed through cities as Mexico surpassed China as the U.S.’s top trading partner. This project proposes developing a roadmap of best practices for sustainable development in the Nuevo Laredo-Laredo region to help policy and decision makers develop industrial policies that are both environmental and business friendly. Challenges include air quality and tractor trailer traffic (3 million trucks passed through the ports in 2023 and the trucks often sit for hours waiting to clear customs) and industrial park and maquiladora sustainable development. The roadmap could also identify and highlight current sustainable development practices that have been successful in the region.
Final Product Format	Research Document of Best Practices
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Other
Secondary Discipline/Expertise
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	218
Project Name	Maritime Cultural Protection and Onshore Preservation Impact for Communities
Office	Public Diplomacy, U.S. Embassy Jakarta
Embassy	Indonesia
Bureau	U.S. Mission
Project Description	The Sunda Strait off the northern coast of Java, Indonesia, is the final resting place for many World War II wartime ships, including the USS Houston. The wreck is also gravesite, where 625 Americans lost their lives. Through the Embassy Public Affairs and Political Sections, and in collaboration with the Department of Defense, U.S. Mission Indonesia is working to negotiate a Maritime Conservation Zone (MCZ) for the USS Houston shipwreck. Not only does the ship represent an important time in U.S. history, and the sacrifice of service members, its remains benefit the marine environment and, consequently, local fishing communities. In order to convince the Government of Indonesia (GOI) to declare the shipwreck a conservation zone, the Embassy needs answers to these fundamental questions: 1. How is the USS Houston part of Indonesia’s WWII history? 2. Why would it matter to Indonesian communities to designate the site as an MCZ? 3.What would the economic benefits to Indonesia be? 4. What would the environmental effects be? 5. Who are the stakeholders that might help the U.S. Mission prevail in getting the Indonesia government to declare the USS Houston an MCZ? 6. What opportunities might there be, or could we create, to engage either these stakeholders or the GOI in this endeavor? This analysis would serve as the basis for an action plan between the United States and Indonesia to ensure permanent protection for this important site.
Final Product Format	1. A written report, including recommendations, chart of stakeholders, list of potential experts, and a general analysis of the impacts an MCZ could have. 2. A slideshow presentation to be adapted for use with stakeholders laying out the benefits of establishment of an MCZ. 3. At least three business plans/models that show financial benefit for shore communities through designation of an MCZ. Note: The USS Houston should not be considered as a recreational or tourist dive site due to the depth, current, and overall conditions of its location. Technical dives requiring specialized skills and equipment can be considered but in very limited circumstances.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	International Law
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Oceans
Additional Information	No Maximum Number of University Teams
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	219
Project Name	Advancing Interoperable Carbon Markets in ASEAN
Office	Economic
Embassy	U.S. Mission to ASEAN
Bureau	U.S. Mission
Project Description	The U.S. Mission to ASEAN is looking for a team of graduate students to conduct research and create one or more proposals for activities aimed at assisting ASEAN member states in developing high integrity and well-functioning carbon markers that are interoperable with one another and with global markets. Research may focus on the following topics to inform the development of activities to advance the stated goal above: - Overview of the current landscape of carbon markets in Southeast Asia, including the status of carbon tax and voluntary carbon trading. - Analysis of the challenges ASEAN member states face in building their own domestic carbon markets and interoperability of markets across the region. - Case studies of other carbon markets that may offer lessons for ASEAN. - Identify areas of needs where U.S. experience and expertise can support the development of credible and well-functioning carbon markets in ASEAN. Based on the research, we would welcome the team to exercise their creativity in designing one or more activities in support of advancing carbon markets in ASEAN. We encourage the team to focus on efforts to promote ASEAN-wide cooperation through ASEAN mechanisms instead of individual member states. Activities should be realistic, low-cost, and implemented with a budget under $15,000. Examples of proposed activities may include, but not limited to: - Draft a report that provides recommendations to policymakers in ASEAN member states, clearly outlines the challenges to building carbon markets, and offers concrete, actionable steps countries can take to address these challenges. - Design workshops through which U.S. government or private sector experts can provide training to the ASEAN audience to address one or more specific challenges identified in your research. For example, on technical issues like verification or standards, on policy issues such as regulatory frameworks, or other identified needs. - Develop a proposal for a public event to raise public awareness about carbon trading, possibly targeting businesses, consumers, or other stakeholders.
Final Product Format	The final product for this project should include a summary of research and a detailed proposal of each activity (Note: There is no limit on the number of activities proposed. End Note), - including a budget. The proposal should include a timeline, as well as proposed partners, experts, targeted audience, etc.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Climate Change
Secondary Discipline/Expertise
Additional Information	This project aims to support ASEAN’s stated goal to facilitate and accelerate the development of carbon markets in the region, as outlined in the ASEAN Carbon Neutrality Strategy U.S. capacity building and sharing of best practices can help ASEAN build interoperable robust carbon trading mechanisms, harmonize standards, and ensure the integrity and credibility of the carbon credit market to expedite cross-border trading. ASEAN holds out immense potential for generating carbon credits, given the region’s incredibly rich biodiversity and abundance of renewable energy sources such as hydro, solar and geothermal. ASEAN Member States are at varying levels of implementing their national carbon strategies. Although some ASEAN member countries have implemented their own individual carbon trading initiatives, a unified timeline or a collective commitment of carbon trading implementation across the

region have not yet been attempted. The estimated carbon offsets produced in Southeast Asia could stimulate activity worth $10 billion annually by 2030.

Implementing carbon market is crucial for ASEAN to remain globally competitive.

Academic Level

Graduate

Project ID	222
Project Name	Unhappy Isles: Climate Crisis, Pacific Islanders, and US (and PRC?) Efforts to Turn the Tide
Office	Office of East Asian & Pacific \| South & Central Asian Affairs
Embassy
Bureau	Conflict and Stabilization Operations
Project Description	Imagine that the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) are dissatisfied with U.S. actions to address the climate crisis, which PICs cite as their top foreign policy priority, seeing it as an existential threat to their ways of living, their homes, and even their lands themselves. Seeing itself as a climate leader, the United States recognizes this situation and has taken what it believes to be significant steps and directed many millions of dollars the confront this challenge. In this hypothetical scenario - but applying real- world information, thoughtful analysis, and artful prose, what is the explanation for this disconnect? Is it: because the USG has failed to message the depth and breadth of its actions and commitments? because the USG has not dedicated or designated sufficient funding (or funds cannot be accessed easily) for PIC governments/Pacific Islanders? because USG actions and commitments are insufficient and have been ineffective at improving the quality of life or prospects for the future for Pacific Islanders? because of other reasons or some combination of the above? REQUEST: Select three or more Pacific Island Countries. Conduct case studies: to determine the reason(s) PICs are dissatisfied with U.S. action to combat the climate crisis in this “hypothetical” situation, and to recommend actions the U.S. government could take so that PICs see the United States as a responsible actor, reliable partner, and global leader in combatting the climate crisis. Countries for possible case studies include: Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Results from this project will inform USG Pacific policy and guide our office as we expand activities to the Pacific region. Case studies and recommendations may incorporate analysis of government policies, statements by elected and appointed officials, media reporting, and public opinion; qualitative surveys of social media and Open Source materials; review of economic data, academic papers, and think tank reports, presentations, and conferences; and any other compelling information which helps to identify the issue(s), explain the cause(s), and recommend solutions. Optional Addendum: As an additional case study, investigate to what extent the People’s Republic of China engages in climate-related activities in the Pacific. How do U.S. and PRC climate-related actions and funding in the Pacific compare? Do PIC governments and citizens hold the PRC and PRC-related companies accountable for their climate-combatting efforts or lack thereof? Relying on Chinese-language sources, PRC government statements and data, and PRC strategic documents to contextualize these findings would be highly prized! This, too, will inform USG actions in the Pacific, funding for programs, and potential collaboration with the PRC.

Final Product Format

Please present your findings and recommendations as a paper of no more than 20

pages inclusive of a two-page executive summary. Please include sources in an annex with links when possible. A visual presentation is welcome but not required.

Primary Discipline/Expertise

Climate Change

Secondary Discipline/Expertise

East Asian Pacific Studies

Additional Information

The United States Government recognizes broadly the challenges presented by the climate crisis, and it has committed and taken steps domestically and internationally to reduce emissions to levels in line with keeping a 1.5-degree Celsius limit to warming within reach. It also has made financing available for developing countries and climate adaptation efforts.

The Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO) is charged with leading the formulation and implementation of U.S. conflict prevention strategies, policies, and programs (https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security- democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-conflict-and-stabilization-operations/). It is the State Department’s lead implementer of the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability (https://www.state.gov/stability-strategy/) and works to reduce fragility, strengthen democratic institutions, and increase social cohesion to advance

U.S. foreign policy objectives.

The Office of East Asian & Pacific | South & Central Asian Affairs seeks to enable effective, efficient responses to national security priorities in the East Asia & Pacific (EAP) and South & Central Asia (SCA) regions. Team Pacific leads our efforts with Pacific Island Countries.

Reference & Strategy Documents:

The Climate Crisis: Working Together for Future Generations: https://www.state.gov/policy-issues/climate-crisis/ 2022

Indo-Pacific Strategy: https://www.state.gov/indo-pacific-strategy/ and https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/U.S.-Indo-Pacific- Strategy.pdf

Fact Sheet: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches- remarks/2022/02/11/fact-sheet-indo-pacific-strategy-of-the-united-states/ 2022/09 PICL: U.S. Engagement in the Pacific Islands: 2022 Pacific Islands Conference of Leaders: https://www.state.gov/u-s-engagement-in-the-pacific-islands-2022-pacific-islands- conference-of-leaders/ 2022/09

U.S.-PIC Summit: U.S.-Pacific Island Country Summit: https://www.state.gov/u-s-pacific- islands-country-summit/ 2022/09

FACT SHEET: Roadmap for a 21st-Century U.S.-Pacific Island Partnership https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/09/29/fact- sheet-roadmap-for-a-21st-century-u-s-pacific-island-partnership/ 2023/05

U.S.-PIF Dialogue: U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Dialogue in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements- releases/2023/05/22/u-s-pacific-islands-forum-leaders-dialogue-in-port-moresby- papua-new-guinea/ 2023/05

U.S.-PIF Dialogue: U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Dialogue in Papua New Guinea - Fact Sheet: https://www.state.gov/u-s-pacific-islands-forum-leaders-dialogue-in-papua- new-guinea/ 2023/09

U.S.-PIF Summit: U.S.-Pacific Island Forum Leader’s Summit: https://www.state.gov/u-s-

pacific-island-forum-leaders-summit/ 2023/09

FACT SHEET: Enhancing the U.S.-Pacific Islands Partnership: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/09/25/fact- sheet-enhancing-the-u-s-pacific-islands-partnership/ 2024/08

FACT SHEET: Following Through on the U.S.-Pacific Islands Partnership 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga August 26-30, 2024 https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/08/27/fact- sheet-following-through-on-the-u-s-pacific-islands-partnership-53rd-pacific-islands-

forum-pif-leaders-meeting-in-nukualofa-tonga-august-26-30-2024/

Academic Level

Hybrid

Project ID	228
Project Name	Strategy for Abolition of Burma's 1982 Citizenship Law
Office	Global Criminal Justice
Embassy
Bureau	Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights
Project Description	In April 2024, the People’s Assembly organized by the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC) of Burma voted to abolish the 1982 Citizenship Law. The Commission established for this purpose has developed a draft strategy and is now seeking inputs and recommendations from experts towards its finalization. The 1982 Citizenship Law was enacted shortly after the mass returns of Rohingya who fled in 1978 and sets forth three categories of citizenship: citizenship, associate citizenship, and naturalized citizenship. Rohingya were permitted to reside in Burma, but Burmese authorities have considered most Rohingya "resident foreigners," rather than citizens. The deprivation of full citizenship rights has contributed to other violations Rohingya have experienced, including restrictions on freedom of movement, limited access to education, and forced evictions from land and property.
Final Product Format	Research paper on models of citizenship (jure sanguinis, jus soli), right to nationality/against statelessness, including how other societies have integrated formerly marginalized communities, and potential drafting of new language to input into NUCC strategy; Expert workshop, with validation of the NUCC’s final strategy.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Democracy & Human Rights
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	International Law
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	230
Project Name	The Return of Property as a Transitional Justice Measure
Office	Global Criminal Justice
Embassy
Bureau	Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights
Project Description	Many circumstances in which transitional justice measures are pursued have seen acts of displacement, ethnic cleansing, and deportation. The result is that victim communities lose access to their immovable real property (and other forms of personal property). If not destroyed, their homes may be appropriated by perpetrators, members of other communities, or innocent third parties. Restitution may be difficult when the state in question has non-existent or incomplete property records or registration systems. How have societies that have implemented a transitional justice program addressed the imperative of returning such property to their original owners? How have they dealt with innocent/bona fide occupants versus usurpers?
Final Product Format	Research paper with comparative case studies.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	International Law
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Democracy & Human Rights
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	232
Project Name	Teasing out Multilateral Sentiments and Strengthening the NPT Regime with Artificial Intelligence
Office	MNSA - Multilateral Nuclear and Security Affairs
Embassy
Bureau	International Security and Nonproliferation
Project Description	International multilateral forums, both those that are part of the United Nations system and others, serve as formal mechanisms for diverse groups of countries to work to make shared progress on global challenges, including nuclear nonproliferation. Bodies dedicated to upholding and advancing the global nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament regime primarily include meetings of the review process of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT), the Conference on Disarmament (CD), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), UN First Committee (UNFC), and the UN Security Council (UNSC). National statements published in these bodies, as well as statements delivered on behalf of likeminded, regional, or cross-regional groups (e.g., the G77, the Non- Aligned Movement, ASEAN, the EU, and the New Agenda Coalition) highlight areas of consensus and contention on issues discussed. The wealth of data contained in these statements forms a web of international policy positions that can reveal how nations’ positions evolve over time, and help policymakers understand where collaboration may be possible in the future. Successfully tracking and analyzing these narratives is challenging. It requires national delegations to parse the text of a given statement to identify key sentiments that may vary depending on the forum and the context of the statement. This interpretation of the text must then be correlated against the positions of fellow parties to identify motifs and trends that may indicate shifting priorities and relational structures when examined over time. Increasingly, these interpretations must further be correlated among forums to identify countries’ tendencies across the multilateral system. Doing so is directly correlated with our ability to effectively counter negative trends and advance U.S. positions. This project seeks to build a tool that can analyze the evolution of narratives on key issues within the nonproliferation regime. Though the ideal tool could be applied to issues more broadly, one example that could be used as a test case would be to examine evolving positions on the “peaceful uses” of nuclear science and technology and provide guidance, so as to offer insight to U.S. delegations to multilateral forums in support of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and the global nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament regime. (In recent years the PRC has advanced a narrative that purports to build support for the “peaceful uses” of science and technology for development purposes but is actually an attack on the multilateral export control regimes including the Nuclear Suppliers Group.) Such a tool should draw on publicly available data from 2019 to the present from a select subset of multilateral forums and conferences including the NPT Review Conferences, the UNFC and UNSC, and IAEA conferences and use modern data science tools (e.g., large language models and automated video-to-text transcription) to extract insights on national and multinational sentiments centered around “peaceful uses” and export control regimes. Once verifying the ability of this tool to identify well-understood sentiments shared between key countries, the project will attempt to use the tool to either (1) identify new as-yet-unidentified insights in these select forums and (2) the existence of similar sentiments in further afield multilateral forums (e.g., UN Human Rights Council). If technically viable, this tool could be packaged in a user-friendly form to actively support U.S. multilateral delegations at forums.
Final Product Format	This project would produce two deliverables that rely on a data analysis to extract correlated sentiments from publicly available national statements, working papers, and multilateral resolutions in UN and other forums. (1) Demonstration: To validate the

	viability of the data analysis, produce a short report that demonstrates the ability to automate the identification of well-understood sentiments on “unilateral coercive measures” and export controls. (2) Tool: A tool that can be used to produce updated insights and extrapolated insights in real time to augment the engagement of U.S. delegations in these same multilateral forums.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Computer Science
Secondary Discipline/Expertise
Additional Information	1) Primary Discipline/Expertise - It wasn't available in the drop down menu we are requesting Data Science and Artificial Intelligence for Discipline & Expertise. 2) In reference to Max Number of University Teams - As this is a data science project with a directed goal, this project has the potential to be approached using the “kaggle” approach (https://www.kaggle.com/) in which multiple teams approach the same project in competition for a defined period. At the conclusion of this period, the results and outcomes are ranked and, if coordinated appropriately, could be integrated to produce a single final tool to integrate the strengths of each team. As such, we envision that this project could accommodate more than one team but not more than five teams given bandwidth of office advisors. 3) Additional Information - NPT PrepCom: https://meetings.unoda.org/npt-/treaty-on-the-non-proliferation-of-nuclear-weapons- preparatory-committee-for-the-eleventh-review-conference-second-session-2024 PRC Peaceful Uses Resolution: https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/3944826?v=pdf Reaching Critical Will’s Disarmament For a database: https://www.reachingcriticalwill.org/disarmament-fora
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	238
Project Name	3Global Criminal Justice Rewards Program (GCJRP) Authorities Revisions
Office	Global Criminal Justice
Embassy
Bureau	Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights
Project Description	Does 22 USC Â§ 2708 need to be rewritten to authorize/clarify the following, and if so, how should it be rewritten: To pay rewards for information that leads to the resolution of an open indictment, most relevantly if definitive information were brought forward that a designated fugitive was dead. This would contribute to international justice processes by allowing prosecutors to close files on cases that cannot proceed and preserve their investigatory and tracking resources. How might the statute be rewritten to allow for reward payments for such information?
Final Product Format	A paper assessing and analyzing options for a path forward.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	International Law
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	241
Project Name	Youth-Driven Urban Planning: Enhancing Walkability and Green Spaces in the United States and Spain
Office	U.S. Embassy Madrid
Embassy	Spain
Bureau	European and Eurasian Affairs
Project Description	With urban areas rapidly expanding, creating walkable environments, and incorporating green spaces are critical to improving public health, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. The United Nations projects that by 2050, 68% of the global population will live in urban settings, making it crucial to design these spaces with the needs and perspectives of future generations in mind. This project aligns with Spain’s emergence as a global leader in climate transition and digital innovation, fueled by the approximately 150 billion euros from the Next Generation EU recovery fund aimed at accelerating renewable energy and digital modernization. By leveraging this transformational infusion of funds, the United States can help Spain enhance urban planning processes that prioritize public health, thereby elevating Spain’s influence in promoting global health security, particular in Latin America. This project will engage youth voices in urban planning processes to explore how cities in the United States and Spain can integrate walkability and green spaces to foster inclusive growth. It will assess urban planning strategies in cities across both countries, identifying best practices that contribute to the development of environmentally sustainable, digitally innovative, and socially vibrant urban environments. Additionally, this initiative will highlight how such efforts can be instrumental in addressing shared climate objectives, while promoting infrastructure quality and health security, particularly in Latin America. By focusing on the next generation’s role in urban planning, this initiative will support Spain and the United States in advancing global climate leadership and fostering transatlantic cooperation that contributes to sustainable economic models, job creation, and increased Spanish investment in the U.S. economy. This project will foster greater climate leadership within the EU by showcasing successful youth-driven urban planning models that can inspire additional commitments from Latin American countries, aligning with the climate goals of the United States. It will also encourage Spanish investment in the United States, particularly under the IRA and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, by highlighting the benefits of sustainable urban planning and renewable energy projects. Furthermore, it aims to improve Spanish audiences’ understanding and favorable view of the IRA’s role in combating climate change through targeted communication and education campaigns involving youth advocates.
Final Product Format	Comprehensive Report: A detailed report that compares urban planning strategies and highlights best practices for integrating youth perspectives in creating walkable and green cities. The report will include case studies, data analysis, and insights from youth participants. It will also address the impact of these strategies on public health, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Policy Recommendations: A set of actionable recommendations tailored for urban planners and policymakers in the United States and Spain to enhance walkability, green spaces, and youth engagement in urban planning. The policy recommendations will be

	designed to be practical and implementable, offering clear guidelines and steps for cities to adopt. Youth Engagement Toolkit: A toolkit for cities to effectively involve young people in urban planning processes, including strategies for community engagement and participatory design. The toolkit will provide templates, checklists, and best practice examples to help cities create inclusive and effective youth engagement initiatives. It will also offer training materials for urban planners and community leaders on how to collaborate with youth groups. Public Awareness: Increased awareness of the importance of youth involvement in urban planning and the benefits of walkable, green cities for public health and environmental sustainability. This will be achieved through targeted communication campaigns, educational programs, and public events. The aim of this is to foster a broader understanding of how youth-driven urban planning can contribute to public health, environmental sustainability, and overall quality of life.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Climate Change
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Global Health
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	244
Project Name	Whistleblower Protection: an Element of Protection and Not a Mechanism to Target Opposition
Office	International Narcotics and Law Enforcement
Embassy	Columbia
Bureau	Western Hemisphere Affairs
Project Description	The United States promotes strengthening anti-corruption measures around the world. In Colombia, U.S. Embassy Bogota supports the Government of Colombia’s initiative to create a Whistleblowers Protection Bill that would protect whistleblowers reporting corruption through legal mechanisms. It is difficult for individuals to speak out against corruption without legal backing or protection, especially against their employer or own government. A whistleblower protection law would ensure that individuals would be able to address corruption within the government and other sectors. The United States passed our first whistleblower protection law in 1979 and continues to update the legislation as necessary. Current opposition to whistleblower legislation in Colombia state that individuals could use this legislation to retaliate against employers or government agencies or officials. Additionally, there are questions surrounding which branch of government should anti-corruption entities belong to and how to ensure transparency and objectivity. This research project could focus on analyzing whistleblower protection legislation in the region, who oversees these policies, and how these entities engage with the courts, executive, and legislative branches.
Final Product Format	Negotiable, but recommend a policy paper addressing key research questions.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Western Hemisphere Studies
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	245
Project Name	Unpopular: How Colombia’s Special Jurisdiction for Peace Can Court the Public
Office	Political Section
Embassy	Columbia
Bureau	Western Hemisphere Affairs
Project Description	Colombia’s Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) is the justice component established by the 2016 Peace Accord that is responsible for overseeing cases involving crimes that occurred during Colombia’s armed conflict. The JEP focuses on transformative and restorative justice. The purpose of the JEP is to promote reconciliation, reparation, and non-repetition of these heinous crimes. To obtain this goal, the JEP allows those guilty of these crimes to admit to their culpability in exchange for sanctions that focus on restoring the communities the most affected by the violence (in lieu of prison). According to national polling, the JEP has a very high unfavourability rate and has lost support from the general public. This project would analyze JEP’s current media campaign (strength and weaknesses), assess social media responses to JEP hearings, decisions and announcements. The project could compare social media campaigns of countries that highly favor law enforcement and justice systems and This project could provide suggestions on how the JEP could better explain the work they are doing to promote peace and obtain justice. Students would develop a new social media campaign for the JEP to better address public concerns.
Final Product Format	Students would develop a new social media campaign for the JEP to better address public concerns.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Conflict, Stabilization & Reconstruction
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Communications
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	246
Project Name	Local Governments’ Access to Colombian Federal Government Resources
Office	Political Section
Embassy	Columbia
Bureau	Western Hemisphere Affairs
Project Description	Subnational diplomacy is a U.S. foreign policy priority. This research project would focus on the distribution of federal resources and regional tax revenue to departments and territories within Colombia. How does the federal government decide how much funding a department will receive? Is the current distribution fair? How does the current distribution affect inequality in Colombia? How do municipalities request resources from the federal government? Many new mayors and governors are unaware of how to request and utilize resources that may be available at the federal level. This project could research the current laws and regulations and ascertain the gaps and challenges to requesting and distributing federal resources. This project would strengthen our subnational contacts coordination and cooperation with the federal government and could improve coordination of USG foreign assistance throughout the country.
Final Product Format	Report
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	International Development
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	248
Project Name	Thirty Years After Normalization: A Celebration of the U.S.-Vietnam relationship
Office	Public Diplomacy Section Hanoi
Embassy	Vietnam
Bureau	East Asian and Pacific Affairs
Project Description	This project seeks to identify and execute opportunities to reflect on and lift up lessons learned from U.S-Vietnamese efforts to overcome the legacies of war and build a strong bilateral relationship for other global issues and coincides with the 30th anniversary of U.S.-Vietnam relations and the 50th anniversary of the end of the war in Vietnam.
Final Product Format	The final product is an actionable plan for universities and other organizations around the country to reflect on the 30/50 anniversaries and key lessons learned from the Vietnam War and its aftermath as they relate to current U.S.-Vietnam relations, current political-security issues, and other conflict and stabilization efforts, particularly those focused on reconciliation.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	East Asian Pacific Studies
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Communications
Additional Information	The Vietnam War had significant domestic, regional and international implications. But fifty years since the end of the war in Vietnam and thirty years since the United States and Vietnam re-established relations, the future-focused orientation of a bilateral relationship that benefits both countries can't be denied. Yet, for many, the U.S.- Vietnam relationship is only seen through the lens of war. This project is a chance to reflect on the past and drive towards a more collaborative future. With many activities planned in Vietnam to celebrate the relationship, university teams in the United States have a chance to organize and execute events that engage a wide range of audiences in the United States and consider how lessons learned from Vietnam should be applied to addressing the legacies of war globally.
Academic Level	Undergraduate

Project ID	249
Project Name	Leveraging OSINT to Map PRC University Partnerships Globally
Office	Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction
Embassy
Bureau	International Security and Nonproliferation
Project Description	The PRC leverages MOUs between Chinese and foreign universities and research partnerships as means to gain access to potentially dual-use research, data, technology, and equipment - particularly research, data, technology, and equipment relating to emerging technologies. Due to the public facing nature of these research partnerships, open-source data can be leveraged to map the PRC’s network of MOUs and research partnerships. This project will leverage this open-source information to identify and document partnerships, joint laboratories, and MOUs between universities in the People's Republic of China (PRC) and other universities globally. The selected partner will utilize OSINT methods to gather information from publicly available sources such as university websites, academic publications, press releases, and databases in both English and Chinese to develop an excel document that has entries including: The name of the PRC university involved in the partnership; The name of the international university involved; The country where the partner university is located; The specific thematic area of research or collaboration; A risk ranking using a student developed technology risk methodology; and Any other relevant details pertaining to the partnership or collaboration.
Final Product Format	An excel document of PRC university partnerships that has entries including: The name of the PRC university involved in the partnership; The name of the international university involved; The country where the partner university is located; The specific thematic area of research or collaboration; A risk ranking using a student developed technology risk methodology; and any other relevant details pertaining to the partnership or collaboration.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Arms Control/Non-Proliferation
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Other
Additional Information	Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction Information: https://www.state.gov/bureaus- offices/under-secretary-for-arms-control-and-international-security-affairs/bureau-of- international-security-and-nonproliferation/office-of-cooperative-threat-reduction/ Project team will work with ISN/CTR to identify priority regions depending on level of bandwidth. This project can scaled up/down as needed to fit team availability.
Academic Level

Project ID	250
Project Name	Understanding the Biotechnology Start-Up Landscape in India in 2023,
Office	Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction
Embassy
Bureau	International Security and Nonproliferation
Project Description	India’s bioeconomy is valued at $137 billion and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The number of biotech startups has increased from 100 in 2015 to over 130,000 in 2024, making India the third-largest destination for biotechnology in Asia and one of the top 12 destinations worldwide. As this sector grows, there is growing concern about biosafety and biosecurity measures to ensure biotechnology advances safely and securely. Biosafety and biosecurity standards are important to promote international research collaborations, economic cooperation, and protect national security. ISN/CTR is seeking a team to create a dashboard for the biotechnology startups in India by identifying where geographically they are located, which sectors they fall into (biomanufacturing, energy/fuel, pharma, vaccine development, etc), where their financial support is coming from (international investment, VC funding, philanthropy, etc), and how the Indian government is supporting these startups (subsidies, financial incentives, etc). ISN/CTR seeks recommendations on priority startups or sectors to engage to enhance biosafety and biosecurity measures to protect sensitive biological research and expertise. In 2023, India’s bioeconomy is valued at $137 billion and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The number of biotech startups has increased from 100 in 2015 to over 130,000 in 2024, making India the third-largest destination for biotechnology in Asia and one of the top 12 destinations worldwide. As this sector grows, there is growing concern about biosafety and biosecurity measures to ensure biotechnology advances safely and securely. Biosafety and biosecurity standards are important to promote international research collaborations, economic cooperation, and protect national security. ISN/CTR is seeking a team to create a dashboard for the biotechnology startups in India by identifying where geographically they are located, which sectors they fall into (biomanufacturing, energy/fuel, pharma, vaccine development, etc), where their financial support is coming from (international investment, VC funding, philanthropy, etc), and how the Indian government is supporting these startups (subsidies, financial incentives, etc). ISN/CTR seeks recommendations on priority startups or sectors to engage to enhance biosafety and biosecurity measures to protect sensitive biological research and expertise.
Final Product Format	Report outlining methodology as well as executive summary and tiered recommendations. Dashboard/Excel sheet providing key information on startups. Presentation to DOS providing high level overview of results and recommendations.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Arms Control/Non-Proliferation
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	South/Central Asian Studies
Additional Information	Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction Information: https://www.state.gov/bureaus- offices/under-secretary-for-arms-control-and-international-security-affairs/bureau-of- international-security-and-nonproliferation/office-of-cooperative-threat-reduction/

Project team will work with ISN/CTR to identify priority regions depending on level of bandwidth. This project can scaled up/down as needed to fit team availability.

Academic Level

Hybrid

Project ID	251
Project Name	Campaign to Attract More International Students from the Middle East
Office	Public Affairs
Embassy	Qatar
Bureau	Near Eastern Affairs
Project Description	Since the 2015-2016 academic year, Qatari student enrollment at higher education institutions in the United States has dropped by more than 75 percent and Qatari students continue to choose to study in the United Kingdom or remain in Doha to study at the six U.S. universities hosted by Education City. Our project aims to create a comprehensive marketing and outreach campaign to attract more international students from the Middle East, particularly those from Qatar, to study in the United States. This initiative is crucial as it not only fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding but also strengthens diplomatic ties and enhances the global reputation of U.S. educational institutions. By increasing the number of Middle Eastern students in the United States, we can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive academic environment, enhance effective institutions and good governance in Qatar, and showcase the depth of the strong U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationships. The project will involve a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing Qatari students’ decision- making processes, including: â€¢ competing destinations (UK, Qatar) and perceived quality of education, costs, application processes, visa procedures, and post-graduation opportunities; â€¢ U.S. political, social, cultural, and religious; â€¢ U.S. institutions reputation, perception, and misconceptions; â€¢ Education agents and counselors; â€¢ And, student recruitment campaigns. Based on the analyses, the project should develop recommendations and targeted messaging strategies to effectively communicate the benefits of studying in the United States and address any concerns or misconceptions that affect students’ decision-making process. Our goal is to create a compelling narrative and comprehensive campaign strategy that resonates with prospective students and their families, ultimately increasing the number of Middle Eastern students choosing the United States for their higher education.
Final Product Format	A comprehensive report with a complementary presentation deck with the findings and a strategic marketing plan that outlines targeted messaging strategies.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Marketing
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Communications
Additional Information	https://snip.state.gov/rol https://snip.state.gov/rom https://snip.state.gov/ron https://snip.state.gov/rop https://snip.state.gov/roq https://snip.state.gov/ror https://snip.state.gov/ros
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	254
Project Name	DPRK: Technological Solutions to Increase Access to Information
Office	Front Office
Embassy
Bureau	East Asian and Pacific Affairs
Project Description	The DPRK is one of the most repressive regimes in the world. Recent crackdowns on foreign media and a continuing rise in the number of public executions, including of youth, have heightened an environment of fear and repression. An informed citizenry, with unfettered access to information, is critical for responsive governance. The U.S. Department of State is committed to increasing the free flow of information into, out of, and within North Korea. How can we increase access to information within the DPRK? We are looking for innovative and creative ideas for delivery of content into North Korea. This project asks students to explore technical options for new content delivery mechanisms. Potential solutions include ideas for how to use technology (satellite, radio, bluetooth, Internet, etc.) to get information into an increasingly closed information environment. Solutions should consider the technical literacy of the North Korean people and restrictions with access in the country and evaluate potential costs, safety concerns, technological needs, and identify potential private sector partners.
Final Product Format	Options memo and presentation of findings.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Computer Science
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Democracy & Human Rights
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	256
Project Name	How the COVID-19 Pandemic Transformed Global Fiscal Transparency Standards
Office	Office of Monetary Affairs
Embassy
Bureau	Economic and Business Affairs
Project Description	Fiscal transparency fuels global macroeconomic stability by fostering greater government accountability. It provides citizens with a window into public expenditures, equipping citizens with the information needed to hold their leadership accountable, and facilitating better-informed public debate. Strong fiscal transparency standards are crucial to effective public financial management, particularly for developing economies that struggle to access financial markets and lending. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, governments across the globe have faced unprecedented budget and financing challenges. In some cases, this has accelerated public spending on expedited timelines while lowering traditional fiscal oversight and review standards. At the same time, a variety of public and private stakeholders have been ramping up their support for financially distressed governments via capacity building programs to help improve budgeting practices and promote more transparency. This project will analyze fiscal transparency indicators over time to determine the impact of pandemic-related economic repercussions on global fiscal transparency standards. Additionally, the program will evaluate the impact of bilateral capacity building assistance as well as non- governmental organizations (NGO) and international financial institution (IFI) programming on fiscal transparency indicators in targeted countries. The assessment will leverage data from a variety of sources, including&%2358; the U.S. State Department's Fiscal Transparency Report; the International Budget Partnership's Open Budget Survey; the World Bank's Public Expenditure Framework Assessment,; and the IMF’s Fiscal Transparency Evaluation. To evaluate the impact of capacity building programs and assistance, the assessment will include a review of projects funded by State's Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund, the World Bank's Open Budget initiatives, and other NGO/IFI fiscal transparency related initiatives. The project authors may choose to focus on a particular region, such as sub-Saharan Africa or the Levant and north Africa.
Final Product Format	Policy Paper and/or Presentation that&%2358; 1) Analyzes fiscal transparency trends during the period from 2019 to 2023; and 2) Assesses the impact of U.S. government, NGO, and IFI fiscal transparency-related programming across State’s Fiscal Transparency Report indicators.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise
Additional Information	Link to State Department's Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund&%2358; https&%2358;//www.state.gov/fiscal-transparency-innovation-fund/ Link to World Bank's Open Budget Initiative&%2358; https&%2358;//www.worldbank.org/en/programs/boost-portal/related-initiatives Link to IMF's Fiscal Transparency Evaluation&%2358; https&%2358;//www.imf.org/en/Topics/fiscal-policies/fiscal- transparency%23Fiscal%20Transparency%20Evaluation Link to World Bank's Public Expenditure Framework Assessment&%2358; https&%2358;//www.pefa.org/
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	257
Project Name	The Illicit Importation of Mexican Oil into the United States by Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs)
Office	Treasury Executive Office for Asset Forfeiture
Embassy
Bureau	Department of Treasury
Project Description	Mexico struggles with internal corruption and low trust in institutions that has been exacerbated by transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and greedy politicians. In the past decade, Mexican cartels have evolved from running illicit trade markets at the Southern border that connects the United States and Mexico, to mirroring terrorist groups and insurgencies. They employ military tactics and weaponry, torture, murder, kidnapping, and extortion. TCOs now operate in 30 of 32 states and transcend national boundaries through connections in the United States, China, Latin America, and beyond and manipulate politics and government by use of money and fear. They’ve also greatly diversified their portfolio since their inception and leave no venture untouched if it can make them money. Mexico’s weak political system only worsens the TCO crisis as it has been described as “loyalty to the president, across all political and judicial institutions, in exchange for access to wealth and political power. “Mexico is roughly the 14th richest nation in the world and holds the second-largest economy in Latin America, after Brazil. It’s an oil rich country and one of the largest oil producers in the world. Yet, despite its regional and global influence, Mexico suffers with high income inequality as the country’s wealth is concentrated at the top, leaving roughly half its population living in poverty. From 1938 until 2023, Mexico’s petroleum was nationalized under the company, Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), and despite crude petroleum being one their top exports, it has undergone a serious decline in recent years. In 2023, after 85 years of nationalization, Mexico allowed for private ownership of its petroleum in an effort to boost its economy, though it is still currently under majority ownership of the State. TCOs have also tapped into this enterprise with the assistance of political actors by setting up shell companies and illegally smuggling Mexican crude oil into the United States.
Final Product Format	A 4-8 page research paper looking at how the illegal smuggling of Mexican oil by illicit actors into the U.S. contributes to money laundering efforts (specifically third-party ML) and the effect these efforts have on the integrity of the U.S. and global financial system as well as diplomatic relations between the United States and Mexico. Please provide recommendations on how governments (U.S. and foreign) and financial institutions (i.e. banks, etc.) can deter these efforts.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	258
Project Name	Free Trade Zones in Gulf Cooperation Council Countries (GCC): Analyzing and Understanding the Trade-Offs of FTZs in the GCC
Office	Office of Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes (TFFC)
Embassy
Bureau	Department of Treasury
Project Description	The research project should identify trade-offs in the rapid growth or presence of Free Trade Zones (FTZs) in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. This could be done in three parts. First, the analysis should include a synopsis of the various FTZs in the region, the economic benefits that these FTZs provide, and identify the potential illicit finance risks. Second, the Treasury Department has identified FTZs as an anti- money laundering/countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) vulnerability in some jurisdictions and would like to better understand the current regulatory frameworks of FTZs in each GCC member state, potential AML/CFT deficiencies that can be identified in open-source information, and recommended corrective actions that could be implemented to close any AML/CFT loopholes while maintaining likely economic benefits. Financial Action Task Force (FATF) mutual evaluation reports could be a primary source of information for each jurisdiction where they are available, and may provide additional insights into vulnerabilities identified by FATF as well as recommended corrective actions. Third, a comparative analysis that identifies a potential non-GCC “model “that effectively reaps the economic benefits of FTZs with sufficient regulatory oversight to preclude exploitation by malign actors, could be useful, but is not required.
Final Product Format	Ideally the final product would be a written analysis, augmented by an oral presentation on the research projects key findings.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Middle East/North African Studies
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

Project ID	261
Project Name	Overview and Gap Analysis of Information Sharing between U.S. Government, International Partners, and the Private Sector in Response to Cryptocurrency Crimes
Office	OGT
Embassy
Bureau	Department of Treasury
Project Description	This project aims to examine the current status quo of information sharing between U.S. government and international / private sector partners regarding cryptocurrency enabled crimes. If applicable, it will also identify and propose solutions for gaps and weaknesses in this field. Current transnational crime collaboration occurs in a variety of ways, such as through mutual legal assistance treaties (MLATs), subpoenas to the private sector, bilateral nation-to-nation engagement, and engagement through multilateral organizations such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Egmont Group. However, due to the rapid and transnational nature and increasing prevalence of illicit cryptocurrency activities, legacy processes may need to be examined and adjusted. According to TRM Labs’s “The Illicit Crypto Economy” report, illicit crypto volumes in 2023 totaled approximately $34.9 billion. This figure represents a large international problem to U.S. and international law enforcement, especially as the illicit volume tied to hacks and scams are on pace to exceed 2023 levels. The rapid transnational nature of illicit cryptocurrency activities requires extensive information sharing between law enforcement, financial intelligence units, the private sector, and national governments. In this paper, I would examine information sharing in response to cryptocurrency-enabled crime in two scenarios. The first scenario covers “public knowledge” crimes. These are instances in which, due to the public nature of the blockchain, the illicit activity is rapidly identified by law enforcement and the wider public. An example of such a scenario is a major hacks, such as the DMM Market and WazirX hacks, during which the hackers stole crypto over $500 million in aggregate. The second scenario covers “limited knowledge” crimes. These are instances in which international and private sector partners will not know a crime has occurred until alerted by a victim or U.S. law enforcement. Crimes falling under this category include ransomware deployment and elder abuse scams. By analyzing these information sharing processes, I hope to provide insights on how the unique challenges and commonalities of both scenarios, compare best practices in each scenario, and provide recommendations for a wide variety of cryptocurrency crimes. To analyze the scope and effectiveness of information sharing, I would examine several relevant factors such as the timeliness of reporting and response, the presence of MLATs in countries connected to the illicit crypto economy, the general willingness of virtual asset service providers to cooperate with law enforcement, and mechanisms for information sharing within multilateral organizations such as FATF and the Egmont Group. I would gather information on these factors through key person interviews and public data aggregation and analysis. This research could be used to improve current information sharing protocols in the circumstances of cooperative interdiction, criminal indictments, and sanctions designations, leading to more frozen assets and more recoveries for victims.
Final Product Format	Research paper which outlines the status quo of information sharing in the two categories described above, identifies gaps, and then makes relevant recommendations
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Computer Science

Additional Information

Sources: https://cointelegraph.com/news/crypto-hacks-surpass-1-2-billion-finance-

redefined https://www.trmlabs.com/the-illicit-crypto-economy-report https://www.chainalysis.com/blog/2024-crypto-crime-mid-year-update-part-2/

Academic Level

Graduate

Project ID	263
Project Name	Comparative Analysis of Artificial Intelligence Regulation and Supervision for Financial Institutions
Office	Office of Strategic Policy, Payments & Innovation Team
Embassy
Bureau	Department of the Treasury
Project Description	Legal frameworks for nascent artificial intelligence technologies are evolving rapidly, and can vary by jurisdiction. Relatedly, as artificial intelligence technologies advance, financial institutions seek opportunities to leverage this technology to combat fraud and illicit finance. This project will be a comparative analysis of laws, executive directives, regulations, and binding frameworks that are either in force or currently under legislative consideration that govern the use of artificial intelligence technologies and tools by financial institutions for anti-fraud and/or AML/CFT compliance. Researchers will review, compare, and summarize relevant laws, directives, rules and regulations both internationally (e.g. in the UK, EU, Canada, Australia, China, Brazil) and domestically; for example: Italy recently drafted legislation imposing greater penalties on money laundering crimes using AI. The analysis should focus on laws and regulations that specifically apply to financial institutions (including non-depository institutions, such as money services businesses, virtual asset exchanges, etc.) The end product should include discussion of the broader technology landscape of artificial intelligence tools in this space, and how jurisdictions are responding to the novel uses and potential risks of these tools.
Final Product Format	A 4-5 page policy memo that comprehensively compares and contrasts the approaches to AI law and regulation that jurisdictions of importance (e.g. major economies, and major centers of AI technology development) are taking. The product should include an appendix table/Excel spreadsheet that identifies key areas of overlap and difference between compared laws and regulations.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	264
Project Name	Identifying State Requirements Relating to Company Formation and Trust Registration
Office	Office of Strategic Policy, Financial Transparency and Regulatory Policy
Embassy
Bureau	Department of Treasury
Project Description	Illicit actors frequently use corporate structures such as shell and front companies to obfuscate their identities and launder their ill-gotten gains through the U.S. financial system. In the United States, the formation of legal entities is governed by state law; trusts are also created and administered under state law. This project aims to research and analyze state-level (including U.S. territories) requirements relating to corporate formation and trust registration to better understand what information is reported to secretaries of states and other similar offices, and if/how this information can be accessed by law enforcement and other relevant authorities in a timely manner to further their investigations. Researchers will research secretaries of state and other relevant state websites, identify information states make available about company formation and trust registration processes and requirements, and their respective reporting requirements - e.g., relating to proof of incorporation, legal form and status, addresses, basic regulating powers (e.g., memorandum & articles of association), list of directors, and shareholders.
Final Product Format	Tables detailing: o Information states (including U.S. territories) make available about their respective company formation or trust registration processes and requirements (with links to relevant website for each state) o Information states require from legal entities and trusts at the time of formation or registration o States’ requirements relating to updating and correcting previously reported information o Company and trust information that states make available to law enforcement and other authorities and interested parties o Company and trust information that states make publicly available (and whether it is available for free or for a free)
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Additional Information	â€¢ U.S. Treasury TFFC OSP Page â€¢ 2024 National Money Laundering Risk Assessment - see pages 53-58 on â€˜Legal Entities and Arrangements’ â€¢ 2022 National Strategy for Combating Terrorist and Other Illicit Financing - see page 8 on Corporate Transparency Act and Beneficial Ownership
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	265
Project Name	Analysis of the Remittance Economy, its Participants, and Sufficiency of Related Regulatory and Supervisory Regimes
Office	Financial Transparency and Regulatory Policy
Embassy
Bureau	Department of Treasury
Project Description	Financial remittances are essential to economic support and the provision of humanitarian assistance in many developing countries. Despite remittances frequently surpassing official development assistance and foreign direct investment in remittance- receiving countries, these funds can be costly to send, and there remains anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) concerns about traditional remittance providers, such as money services businesses (MSBs). Rising costs and money laundering concerns have also caused banks to de-risk certain business relationships, affecting the provision of both humanitarian assistance and cross-border remittances. In this climate, there is renewed interest in how digital remittances can alleviate some of these concerns and modernize existing payment systems for remittances. This project will provide an analysis to better understand the remittance economy, key remittance corridors, and the adequacy of regulation and supervision to support the efficient and secure functioning of remittance flows.
Final Product Format	The research paper should include: a) data breakdown of remittances from the United States; b) the types of digital remittance payment systems, including virtual assets- based systems (e.g. cryptocurrency) and their growth in the last decade for both remittance and humanitarian transfers; c) the impact of digital remittances in the U.S. and global remittance market; d) if digital remittances have been successful in certain remittance corridors, regulatory and other factors that have enabled success; e) the adequacy of the current U.S. AML/CFT regulatory regime to address the use of digital, as well as virtual asset-based remittances; and f) policy recommendations for the U.S. context. Students are encouraged to reach out to public and private stakeholders for this project and think through negative unintended consequences of potential policy recommendations. Students are encouraged to utilize and consult with World Bank’s KNOMAD, RemitStat and RemitScope team and other open data sources to help bring greater methodological precision to their analysis.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Computer Science
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	267
Project Name	Assessment of the Effectiveness of Financial Channels in Facilitating Humanitarian Activities and Protecting Against Sanctions Evasion
Office	Office of Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes
Embassy
Bureau	Department of Treasury
Project Description	This project would look at different models of financial channels that have emerged in recent decades as mechanisms to ensure that funds of sanctioned parties are restricted and used solely for humanitarian activities. Prominent examples include the 2015 Joint Plan of Action (JPOA) and the 2020 Swiss Humanitarian Trade Arrangement humanitarian channels established to ensure Iranian oil revenues were used solely for humanitarian activities, the 2022 Swiss Fund for the Afghan People, and the 2016 North Korea United Nations-supervised banking channel. Have these channels been effective in ensuring that funds of sanctioned parties are restricted to humanitarian purposes and not nefarious aims? Have they been effective in facilitating the delivery of humanitarian goods to sanctioned jurisdictions? What factors have impacted whether a channel is successful or not? The project would evaluate different case studies and draw out conclusions and lessons learned for policymakers.
Final Product Format	Report with case studies and lessons learned
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Economic Sanctions
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	268
Project Name	DPRK Human Rights Abuses: Data, Documentation, and Accountability
Office	Front Office
Embassy
Bureau	East Asian and Pacific Affairs
Project Description	The human rights situation in the DPRK is deplorable and deteriorating. The 2014 report of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) on Human Rights in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) found that “systematic, widespread and gross human rights violations have been and are being committed by the DPRK. In many instances, the violations found entailed crimes against humanity. This project asks students to look at publicly available data and reporting detailing human rights abuses and violations being committed by the Kim Jong-Un regime, including through direct engagements with North Korean refugees or escapees living in local communities in the United States, and use the data to share the stories of victims and survivors. These documentation and evidence preservation efforts could be the basis of future accountability processes, including truth-telling and memorialization efforts.
Final Product Format	Final product could include videos, animations, comic strips, images, or written work using data to document DPRK human rights abuses.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Human Rights
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Other
Additional Information
Academic Level	Undergraduate

Project ID	271
Project Name	Facilitating (Energy) Adaptation in Africa
Office	Area Studies
Embassy
Bureau	Foreign Service Institute
Project Description	A transition from traditional energy resources to renewable energy has the ability to close Africa’s energy access gap and advance socio-economic and human development across the continent. Affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy supports public service provisions, livelihood advancement, and agricultural efficiency, which can increase food security and industrial development. However, Africa has only received 2% of global renewable energy investments in the last two decades, with most investments only going to a select few countries. This project requires analysis of energy investments in Africa and creative thinking on proactive approaches the U.S. can take to best engage with the African continent to support the transition to sustainable energy and ultimately stronger socio-economic development.
Final Product Format	Deliverables: Â§ Project participants should produce a final written report to include: (1) key case studies examined, and lessons drawn from them; (2) Recommend courses of action for how the U.S. can best engage with Sub-Saharan Africa to meet its needs and contribute to the transition to sustainable energy. Â§ Project participants should produce a final presentation of key findings and recommendations. Use of deliverables: The Foreign Service Institute provides area studies training to diplomats and other U.S. government foreign affairs specialists serving in Sub-Saharan Africa. Final products will be used in AF regional and sub-regional courses, as well as seminars addressing the energy sector in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Energy Security
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	African Studies
Additional Information
Academic Level

Project ID	325
Project Name	Improving QIZs
Office	EB/TPN/BTA
Embassy
Bureau	Economic and Business Affairs
Project Description	The Office of Bilateral Trade Affairs (BTA) seeks students to work on the below scenario for the Spring 2025 semester. BTA will work closely with and advise the students as desired. Past Diplomacy Lab final projects have included oral briefings to senior principals, developing briefing papers, and PowerPoint presentations. BTA will work with the Diplomacy Lab students to identify how they would prefer to present their findings. BTA seeks student input to identify ways to improve the efficacy and utilization of QIZs. The project should address the following issues: â€¢ Diversification: QIZs in Egypt and Jordan are currently dominated by the apparel industry, with Egypt’s apparel industry actively preventing other Egyptian businesses from taking advantage of the program. How can we foster more diverse industry utilization of QIZs? â€¢ Palestine: Historically, the Palestinian territories have primarily contributed their labor to products exported from QIZs and have not received a large portion of final profits. How can QIZs be improved to provide more financial benefits to people living in the Palestinian authority? Would producing higher end products even be viable?
Final Product Format	Final memo 4-10 pages and briefing presentation
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Economic and Finance Issues
Secondary Discipline/Expertise
Additional Information
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	327
Project Name	American Spaces in Online Places: Rewrite the Story of the State Department’s Cultural Centers Abroad
Office	Office of American Spaces (Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State)
Embassy
Bureau	Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs
Project Description	PROBLEM STATEMENT: American Spaces are the U.S. government’s information hubs, reaching millions of people in communities worldwide interested in learning more about the United States. Our target demographic includes youth, students, and young professionals, primarily aged 18-35. With over 600 Spaces spanning across 140 countries, American Spaces reach millions of participants globally each year. The first American Spaces were established in the Western Hemisphere in the 1920s as local English language libraries overseas. They evolved over decades in different ways across global regions. Managed locally, they took on various naming conventions, offered varying levels of services, and were housed in different types of venues, to include U.S. embassies, non-profit partners, national libraries, and university campuses. This means that public-facing articles, historical information, and online data sources about American Spaces are diffuse and contain gaps. The Office of American Spaces seeks to develop a more accurate and up-to-date public archive of its history and mission, as well as a more unified narrative of the long-term impact of American Spaces from their origins to the present. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Office of American Spaces, within the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs in Washington, DC, oversees Spaces’ operations worldwide and seeks to: 1. Conduct a literature review, which will serve as a foundation of reliable research to inform future projects involving American Spaces; 2. Analyze the presence and penetration of American Spaces on existing social media platforms, internet search engines, and other online content about American Spaces; and 3. Build a comprehensive history of American Spaces from this research and propose edits for this information, where applicable.
Final Product Format	1. Presentation containing list of existing literature online (with URLs), analysis of presence on social media platforms and other websites (with URLs and data where applicable); 2. Research paper containing a narrative history of American Spaces, with a list of websites for information to be updated/edited.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	Education and Cultural Studies
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Communications
Additional Information	https://eca.state.gov/programs-and-initiatives/initiatives/office-american-spacesSearchable Directory of American Spaces Worldwide https://snip.state.gov/rul
Academic Level	Hybrid

Project ID	328
Project Name	Understanding the Impact of a Changing Netherlands
Office	Western Europe
Embassy	Netherlands
Bureau	European and Eurasian Affairs
Project Description	The Netherlands, a small, densely-populated country in northwest Europe, exerts an outsize influence in international diplomacy, justice, and commerce: its most recent prime minister is the new secretary general of NATO; it hosts the International Court of Justice, International Criminal Court, and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons; its seaport in Rotterdam is the largest in Europe; and its internet infrastructure makes it a global connection hub. The Netherlands is also struggling to cope with demographic changes driven by migration and ageing; to counter threats from criminal actors, including narcotics smugglers and cybercriminals, that exploit its transportation and data infrastructure; and to strengthen its defenses against potential aggressors, especially Russia. This project will help us dig deeper as we seek to understand the societal impacts of demographic changes, and the way the country perceives--and responds to--both internal and external threats. Our hope is that qualitative and data-driven open-source research will complement insights gleaned from the Embassy's engagements with government, nonprofit and private sector interlocutors, allowing us to paint a holistic picture for our policymakers and allow them to better understand the strengths, constraints and potential pitfalls facing one of the United States' closest allies in Europe.
Final Product Format	Research papers on each of three focus areas: Changing Face of the Netherlands; Defense Staffing and Innovation; and Security Threats. We can determine length as research continues, but anticipate each would be at least 5-10 pages. Ultimately, the goal is that the research will feed into a series of Embassy cables on these topics.
Primary Discipline/Expertise	European and Eurasian Studies
Secondary Discipline/Expertise	Political /Military Affairs
Additional Information
Academic Level	Graduate

IU Diplomacy Lab

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Spring 2025 - Round 2 Project Menu

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