Virginia Haufler

Virginia Haufler is a Professor of International Relations in the Department of Government and Politics at the University of Maryland, College Park. She is affiliated with the Center for International Development and Conflict Management and currently serves as Director of GVPT Global, expanding global learning opportunities for students. Her research focuses on global governance, corporate social responsibility, and the role of transnational corporations in conflict prevention and climate change. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. from Cornell University and dual B.A. degrees from Pennsylvania State University.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Government, Cornell University (1991)
• M.A. in Government, Cornell University (1985)
• B.A. in Foreign Service and International Affairs, Pennsylvania State University (1979)
• B.A. in Russian Language and Literature, Pennsylvania State University (1979)

Research Interests: Dr. Haufler examines the evolving dynamics of global governance, particularly the governance role of corporations in areas like conflict minerals, climate finance, and multi-stakeholder institutions. Her work bridges international political economy and security studies, analyzing how private authority interacts with state sovereignty in addressing global challenges. Recent projects include evaluating net-zero climate commitments by financial sectors and the efficacy of initiatives like the Kimberley Process.

Awards:

• Fulbright Canada-Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Fellow (2022-2025)

Leadership & Service: As former Director of the Global Communities Living-Learning Program (2011-2021), she restructured the program to deepen intercultural understanding among freshmen. She currently mentors graduate students through the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation and advises organizations such as the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, the UN Global Compact, and Women in International Security (WIIS), where she serves as Treasurer.

Labs/Teams: Active contributor to the Earth System Governance network and affiliated with global institutions like the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (Singapore) and the Global Governance Institute (UCL).