The Institute on Globalization and the Human Condition (IGHC), established in 1998, has been formally established and recognized by by Senate.

“We have the critical intellectual mass to support the institute,” says William Coleman, professor of political science and director of the Theme School on Globalization, Social Change and Human Experience. “This (action by Senate) provides recognition of the efforts by faculty members concerned with globalization issues.”

The objective of the institute is to create a centre for the discussion, debate and analysis of globalization and its effects. Over the past two years, it has developed a refereed discussion paper series and an annual distinguished visiting speakers series.

A new research project has been developed and the institute is in the process of applying for funding. An interdisciplinary collaborative team will explore the following three theme areas:

* understanding globalization;

* social relationships, identities and cultural forms;

* transformations of power and authority.

The IGHC will manage the overall project and co-ordinate the research in the first two areas. The Centre for International Studies (CIS) at the University of Toronto will focus on the third area. International and national partnerships have already been established to collaborate on the five-year project. Research results will be disseminated through:

* the working paper series;

* publication of a minimum of one volume from each of the three areas;

* sponsorship of conference;

* development of a multimedia resource of the results, background information and research tools.

The theme school, which is the undergraduate component of the institute, will operate until the end of the 2001-2002 academic year. Coleman says the future of the undergraduate program has not been determined at this time.