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Who We Are

About IPDS

The Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) is an autonomous, multidisciplinary, and nonpartisan Think-and-Do Tank based in Islamabad.

We bridge academic research and practical application through specialized leadership training, flagship programs, and proactive advocacy to advance national, regional, and global diplomacy, peace, and security.

IPDS was registered in June 2013 and formally launched in February 2014 at the First International Conference on the History of Nonviolent Resistance in Pakistan.

Our foundation stone was laid down by Prof. Dr. Johan Galtung, Father of Global Peace Studies.

9
Centres of Study
45
Partner Institutions
85
Events with embassies and cultural partners since 2011
58
International forums in 17 countries
2014
Formally Launched
1
Peer-Reviewed Journal

Vision & Mission

Our Vision

To be a global leader in peace and diplomacy, advancing security through rigorous research, inclusive dialogue, and principled leadership that shapes a more just and cooperative world.

Our Mission

To advance global peace and diplomacy by producing research that informs policy and facilitates dialogue — bridging theory with practical applications that empower individuals and institutions to make informed decisions to foster sustainable peace.

Our Approach

A Think-and-Do Tank, in Practice

IPDS pairs research with action across four connected steps — each one feeding the next.

Step 1

Research

Policy-relevant research and live trackers on peace, diplomacy and global security.

Step 2

Dialogue

Track-II diplomatic dialogues and high-level conferences that bring stakeholders together.

Step 3

Training

Leadership programs — IYDS, EWLC and international certifications — for the next generation of diplomats.

Step 4

Advocacy

Books, journals and policy briefs that carry evidence into public and policy discourse.

In practice

Since 2011 IPDS has organised 85 conferences, seminars, cultural events and publications with embassies and partners, opened eight country and UN reading corners in Islamabad, and represented Pakistan at 58 international forums in 17 countries.

See Partnerships in Practice →

Focus Areas & Scope

Focus Areas

International Peace Diplomacy Security Studies BRI & China Studies SCO Affairs Central Asia & Eurasia Women & Leadership Public Diplomacy Geopolitics Track-II Diplomacy Climate & Security Pakistan Foreign Policy

Partnerships & Global Reach

Building partnerships with universities, think tanks, and international organizations
Connecting researchers and practitioners worldwide through a remote research fellowship and a global scholars network

Regional and Global Coverage

The Americas Europe Africa Central Asia and Eurasia China + the Belt and Road Initiative Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Southeast Asia & ASEAN Multilateral and United Nations system

Values that Drive Us

01

Independence

IPDS speaks for no government, party or funder. Our positions follow the evidence, not affiliation — see our published research standards.

02

Rigor

Every brief, tracker and report is built on sourced, verifiable evidence before it reaches a policymaker’s desk.

03

Global Reach

Through our Fellowship, Scholars Network and nine Centres of Study, we draw researchers and partners from across the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia — peace and diplomacy work shouldn’t be limited to one region.

04

Accountability

We hold our own work to the same standard we expect of others, and welcome correction — see our research standards on corrections and conflicts of interest.

Explore IPDS

Research

Research & Publications

Explore our policy briefs, academic papers, and full-length research reports on diplomacy, peace, and security.

Browse Publications →
Training

Programs & Training

Discover our flagship programs including IYDS, EWLC, and International Certification Programs.

View Programs →
Centres

Centers of Study

Nine specialized research centers covering BRI, SCO, European Studies, American Studies, and more.

Explore Centres →
Get Involved

Fellowship, Scholars & Careers

Apply for our remote Non-Resident Research Fellowship, join the global Scholars Network, or explore open roles with our team.

Get Involved →
The IPDS Newsletter

Research, dialogues and opportunities from IPDS

Our latest analysis, upcoming events and calls for researchers, in your inbox twice a month.

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