Research at the IEE is concentrating on three core areas reflected in Research Clusters which have been formed as platforms for continuing exchange on research ideas among IEE members with similar fields of interest:
Cluster 1: | Globalization, Regional Integration and Governance |
Cluster 2: | The Effectiveness of Interventions and Policies for Development: social, political and legal science perspectives |
Cluster 3: | Resource Use and Management |
The Clusters aim at fostering exchanges between IEE members with a view to improve intra-departmental communication and cooperation as well as to promote research output in terms of, most importantly, workshops, publications and attendance of conferences.
Bringing together researchers from the fields of economics, political science, sociology, geography, and law, one of the main characteristics of the IEE is its interdisciplinary angle to research which has created a vibrant culture of debate and intellectual exchange. Exposure to different perspectives and disciplines is increasing the practical relevance of research on questions related to international development cooperation.
The research activities of the IEE are broadly oriented towards the entire developing world. International outreach is supported through the PhD in International Development Studies which brings together young researchers from all over the world.
Specific regional expertise and international cooperation links have been established through major cooperation projects:
Finally, research at the IEE is driven by its emphasis on practical relevance and networking. Theory guided research is regularly complemented by empirical work conducted in periods of fieldwork. Networking activities with partners in academia and development practice ensure that exchange and mutual learning continue and deepen over time.