Beyond the Academic Paper: Writing Op-Eds For Policy Impact on Latin America

One of the most important components of an interdiscplinary education is learning how to conduct research and prepare academic papers. However, for those interested in working in policy, one of the most important skills that they can learn is how to distill the complex information learned through research into a condensed format that is more likely to be read by both policymakers and the general public— particularly through op-eds. This is particularly true for those that seek to influence policy—whether locally, nationally, or even globally—through their research. Navigating the op-ed writing and pitch process can, however, be daunting. This Op-Ed Writing Workshop will lay out the purpose and fundamentals of op-ed writing for policy audiences.

Main topics or areas that will be covered: Writing for policy audiences, role for op-eds in the policy process, translating research and analysis into policy-relevant and impactful op-eds.

Expected outcomes or skills participants will gain: Participants will learn how public writing can impact the policy-making process and the fundamentals of op-ed writing, pitching, and disseminating.

Workshop Facilitator: Adam Ratzlaff, founder and CEO of Pan-American Strategic Advisors—a next-generation think tank and consulting firm focused on the Western Hemisphere—and a member of The Expert Network (TEN) with Diplomatic Courier's World in 2050. He has authored or co-authored over 150 public-facing and academic works on regional affairs, and his op-eds have been featured across local, national, and international outlets including Foreign Policy, The National Interest, LatinoAmerica21, Latinometrics, and Responsible Statecraft.