Instruction: Taking on the role of advisor to the newly appointed US Ambassador of one of the countries covered in this course, students will write a policy brief of 2000 words on a policy oriented topic of their choosing (Topic a/ below is chosen).

The purpose of the briefing paper is to provide the Ambassador with a concise overview of:

i) the existing policy, including its history;

ii) the current problems and challenges in this policy area;

iii) the major stakeholders affected by and involved in this policy; and

iv) a brief discussion of current proposals for reforming the policy.

Some typical examples key policy areas are: a/ Immigration policy - Undocumented workers or Refugees/Asylum seekers b/ Economic policy - Labor Markets/Unemployment or Financial Regulation c/Environmental policy - Emissions reduction or Clean Energy d/ Family policy - Parental leave or Child care. e/Domestic security policy - Terrorism f/ Multiculturalism - Recognition of minority cultures

Students are expected to address the following questions:

1. What is the existing policy? What are its primary components?

2. What are the problems with the existing policy? What challenges are being posed to the existing policy?

3. Who are the main players related to this policy? 4. What are the most recent proposals for reform?

Academic requirements:

• Your work must be submitted as a brief of 2000 words 

• Student declaration must be completed.

• Your work should be submitted in the formats outlined for each task in the assignment

• The entire assignment brief and completed front sheet must accompany your work.

• All work must be referenced using the Harvard/APA method.

• Provide a reference list 

• All pictures from any secondary source should be referenced appropriately.