Why Researchers Choose International Organization for High-Impact Publications
International Organization stands as a cornerstone in the field of international relations and political science, offering researchers a premier platform to disseminate groundbreaking work. Established in 1947, this quarterly journal has evolved into one of the most influential publications worldwide, fostering scholarly discourse on global politics, institutions, and international cooperation. With its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to advancing theoretical and empirical research, International Organization attracts contributions from leading academics across disciplines. Its impact factor of 5.125, as reported by Clarivate Journal Citation Reports for 2022, underscores its prestige, placing it among the top-tier journals in political science. Researchers value International Organization for its broad yet focused scope, which encompasses topics from international security and economic interdependence to global governance and conflict resolution. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to reach wider audiences while maintaining high standards of academic integrity. Publishing here not only enhances a researcher's visibility but also contributes to shaping policy and academic debates on pressing global issues. For those navigating the complexities of international programs and services, International Organization provides invaluable insights and networking opportunities through its editorial board and special issues. As the journal continues to adapt to emerging challenges like climate diplomacy and digital governance, it remains essential for scholars aiming to influence the international agenda. To explore career opportunities in academia that align with such high-caliber research, visit our higher education jobs section.
Overview & History
International Organization was founded in 1947 by the World Peace Foundation in collaboration with early pioneers in international relations scholarship. Initially focused on post-World War II reconstruction and the United Nations' role, it quickly became a vital forum for analyzing the evolving landscape of global interactions. Over the decades, the journal has published seminal works that have defined key theories in the field, such as regime theory and constructivism. Today, under Cambridge University Press, it maintains its legacy while embracing interdisciplinary approaches. The journal's history reflects the changing dynamics of world politics, from the Cold War era to contemporary issues like multilateralism in a multipolar world. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to bridge theoretical innovation with practical implications for international programs and services.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
International Organization covers a wide array of topics within international relations and political science, emphasizing empirical and theoretical analyses of global phenomena. Key areas include international security, political economy, international law, and institutional design. The journal welcomes submissions that advance understanding of how states, organizations, and non-state actors interact in the global arena.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| International Relations | Core focus on state interactions, alliances, and conflicts. |
| Political Science | Broader theoretical frameworks applied to global politics. |
| International Political Economy | Trade, finance, and economic interdependence. |
| Global Governance | Institutions like the UN, WTO, and regional bodies. |
| International Security | War, peace, terrorism, and non-traditional threats. |
This multidisciplinary scope ensures that International Organization serves as a hub for diverse scholarly contributions.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 5.125 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 5.789 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 8.2 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 142 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 10-15% | Publisher data |
These metrics highlight International Organization's influence and selectivity, making it a coveted venue for impactful research.
Indexing and Abstracting
International Organization is indexed in major databases, ensuring global visibility for published articles. It appears in Web of Science, Scopus, and JSTOR, among others. This broad indexing facilitates citations and accessibility for researchers worldwide. For open access options, it complies with DOAJ guidelines where applicable, though primarily hybrid.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates on a hybrid model, allowing authors to publish traditionally or opt for open access. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for gold open access is £3,040 (approximately $3,850 USD), covering production and dissemination. Subscription access remains available through Cambridge Core. No fees for traditional publication, but waivers are offered for authors from low-income countries via Research4Life.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled via the ScholarOne Manuscripts platform at the journal's official site. Authors must adhere to the style guide, including double-anonymous peer review. Manuscripts should be 8,000-12,000 words, with clear abstracts and keywords. The process typically takes 3-6 months from submission to decision. Detailed guidelines emphasize originality and methodological rigor.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Layna Mosley from the University of North Carolina, includes experts from top institutions like Harvard, Oxford, and Stanford. Board members specialize in areas from international law to environmental politics, ensuring diverse perspectives. Their collective expertise upholds the journal's high standards.
Why Publish in International Organization?
Publishing in International Organization elevates a researcher's profile due to its prestige and wide readership. It offers rapid dissemination, global impact, and opportunities for citation in policy circles. The journal's focus on innovative research aligns with career advancement in academia, particularly for those in international programs.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Organization | 5.125 | IR theory and empirics | Cambridge UP |
| International Security | 5.567 | Security studies | MIT Press |
| World Politics | 4.231 | Comparative IR | Cambridge UP |
| Journal of International Relations and Development | 2.145 | Development focus | Palgrave |
| Review of International Political Economy | 3.892 | Political economy | Taylor & Francis |
This comparison shows International Organization's strong standing among peers.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, ensure your manuscript addresses a clear research gap with robust data. Engage with recent issues for contextual fit. Use the journal's resources for formatting. Networking via conferences can provide feedback. Track your submission status online. For academic planning, check our academic calendar for deadlines.