Joel E. Oestreich

Joel E. Oestreich is a Professor of Politics and Global Studies at Drexel University, holding appointments in both the Department of Politics and the Department of Global Studies and Modern Languages. He specializes in International Relations with research focusing on international organizations, human rights, and development policy. Previously, he served as Director of the International Area Studies/Global Studies major (2007-2018) and chaired the International Organization Section of the International Studies Association (ISA).

His education includes a PhD in Political Science from Brown University (2001), an MPhil in International Relations from Oxford University (1990), and a BA in History and Government from Cornell University (1987).

Research interests span human rights frameworks, UN policy implementation, sustainable development ethics, and rights-based approaches to economic development. His work critically examines how international institutions operationalize human rights in development contexts.

Awards & Leadership:

• Fulbright Fellowship for research/teaching in India (Jawaharlal Nehru University) and Benin (University of Abomey-Calavi)
• Founded/directed 'ISA at UNAI' program linking scholars with UN policymakers

He teaches courses on international relations theory, human rights, international organizations, and ethics in global affairs.