APA Council Supports International GOALS

Merry Bullock

At its February meeting, APA’s Council of Representatives supported the expansion of APA’s international activities by endorsing and beginning funding for International GOALS (Global Opportunities And Long-term Strategies), an initiative, developed by APA’s Committee on International Relations in Psychology (CIRP) and the Office of International Affairs (OIA) in response to calls for a strong, focused international agenda. The initiative’s long-term goals are to facilitate a global perspective and to develop increased services for Members, global outreach, and policy activities. Some of the planned activities include (for a full listing please see www.apa.org/international/goals.html):

• Psychologists’ Map of the World : an online resource with links to detailed, pragmatic information relevant for psychologists who wish to study, do research or engage in professional activities around the world

• Psychologists International: information on the experiences of psychologists who have lived, worked and taught abroad, illustrated with structured interviews and podcasts, to encourage psychologists to become engaged internationally

• Seminars and “Psychology Day” at the United Nations

• Development of a Global Liaison group from organizations such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, Pan-American Health Organization, World Health Organization, United Nations, International Council for Science to help identify issues and opportunities for psychology

• Exploration of Policy issues affecting psychology internationally in areas such as professional mobility, ethics, and education.

To accomplish these goals, the Office of International Affairs will be expanding its programs, outreach and staff . ψ