What does it take to design effective policy in a rapidly changing world? Our students find out first hand through their capstone projects where they take on real-world policy challenges in collaboration with partners around the world.
A defining element of our professional Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) program, students take the stage at the Global Policy Project (GP²) Symposium to present their findings after months of research, fieldwork, and collaboration.
This year’s symposium titled “Policy in a Changing World” featured eight teams addressing challenges in four themes: environmental and human security; agriculture through trade and health; children and youth—from surviving to thriving; and the translation of global shocks into local realities.
2026 GP² Projects
- Cultivating Connections: Unlocking Canada–ASEAN Agri-Food Trade Potential
In partnership with the Canada ASEAN Business Council, this project examines evolving agri-food demand across ASEAN markets and identifies opportunities to strengthen Canadian exports. - Health, Heat, and Harvest: Addressing Sexual and Reproductive Health Challenges of Female Agricultural Labourers in Tappal, Uttar Pradesh
Working with Transform Rural India, this research examines how gender inequality, agricultural labour, and climate change intersect to shape the sexual and reproductive health of female agricultural workers. - The Arts of Reconciliation: Youth and Policy Engagement in Post-Conflict Northern Uganda
In collaboration with the Refugee Law Project and Youth Advocacy Network, this project explores how arts-based approaches can support children born of war in accessing justice, building identity, and engaging in transitional justice processes. - A Decade Review of Child-Related Sustainable Development Goals in the Dominican Republic (2015–2025)
Partnering with UNICEF Dominican Republic, this report assesses progress on child-focused Sustainable Development Goals, identifying gaps in national data systems and offering recommendations to strengthen child-centered policy. - No Development Without Water: Gender, Water, and Climate Change in the Vilcanota–Urubamba Basin
Working with the Organization of American States, this project examines how gender and climate dynamics shape water governance in the Cusco region and highlights pathways to more inclusive and representative decision-making processes. - Indigenous Engagement and Human Security in the Arctic
In partnership with the Dallaire Center of Excellence for Peace and Security, this study draws lessons from Norway to inform how Canada can integrate Indigenous perspectives into Arctic defence and human security strategies. - Making the Canoe: Teachings from the Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Process
Working with the Squamish Nation, this project explores the evolution and impact of Indigenous-led environmental assessment agreements, offering insights into how Indigenous laws and values can shape future development on their territories. - Intermunicipal Collaboration for Tenant Assistance in the Capital Region
In collaboration with the City of Victoria, this research evaluates opportunities for regional coordination on tenant protection policies during redevelopment, identifying pathways for more consistent and effective support across municipalities.
This year’s GP² projects demonstrate the power of applied policy research to address complex challenges across sectors.
Congratulations to the MPPGA Class of 2026 on their impactful research!
