معرفی
Prof Ali Watson is a Professor of International Relations at the University of St Andrews' School of International Relations, a position he has held since 2008. He serves as Managing Director of the award-winning Third Generation Project (TGP), which he co-founded in 2016 to advance social and climate justice education through community engagement initiatives.
Watson's educational background includes:
- MA (Hons) in Economics and International Relations from the University of Aberdeen
- MSc in Economics from the University of Glasgow
- PhD in Economics from the University of Dundee
His research focuses on the rights of marginalized actors and communities, with particular emphasis on children's place in the international system - work described as 'foundational' in the field. Watson examines education and child welfare practices, and has spent over a decade documenting the impact of historic injustices on marginalized communities. Since 2013, he has collaborated with Ben Collins (University of Aberdeen) on 'doing IR differently,' challenging how academia reinforces structural power relations through projects in North America and East Africa. His work has been funded by the British Academy, National Geographic, the Global Challenges Research Fund, and the Sir Halley Stewart Trust.
Watson's publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on climate justice, children's rights, and critical approaches to international relations. His recent work shows increasing integration of climate justice with childhood studies and critical pedagogy, reflecting his commitment to reimagining educational spaces for marginalized communities. The publications reveal a methodological approach that combines critical theory with community-engaged research.
His significant achievements include:
- UK Green Gown Awards 2021 (Student Engagement: Winner)
- International Green Gown Awards 2022 (Student Engagement: Highly Commended)
- MacJannet Prize for Global Citizenship 2021 (Finalist)
- MacJannet Prize for Global Citizenship 2024 (Honourable Mention)
- OBE for Services to Education (2019)
Watson has supervised PhD students including Sagha Ahmed and has secured research funding from prestigious organizations. His Third Generation Project has developed innovative student community engagement initiatives recognized internationally. Growing up in an economically deprived area of Aberdeen, Watson maintains a strong commitment to creating inclusive learning environments and educational opportunities for all.
