Get Involved
Consult some of these resources if you'd like to become more involved in reshaping world politics.
General Resources
Be the Difference: A Beginner's Guide to Changing the World, by Danny Seo (New Society Publishers, 2001; ISBN 0-086571-432-0) - An easy-reading introduction for would-be activists.
Global Backlash: Citizen Initiatives for a Just World Economy, edited by Robin Broad (Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2002; ISBN 0-7425-1034-4) - A collection of primary documents and academic analysis aimed at discovering what anti-globalization protestors want.
Advocacy for Social Justice: A Global Action and Reflection Guide, by David Cohen, Rosa de la Vega, and Gabrielle Watson (Kumarian Press, 2001; ISBN 1-56549-131-9) - An activist "training manual" that includes a tool kit, case studies, and more.
Idealist.org - This site offers a wealth of information about nonprofit sector careers, internships, and other opportunities for "action without borders." (Starting Your Nonprofit Job Search and The Nonprofit Career Center are good places to begin.)
Volunteer/Internship Opportunities
If you'd like to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector, or simply want to "get your feet wet" as a global activist, consider volunteering or interning at an NGO. You may not receive any financial compensation for your work, but the experience you gain should prove beneficial.
Most NGOs need volunteers to help them accomplish their objectives and are glad to receive any assistance you might want to provide. Activities can often be arranged around your school or employment schedule, allowing you to volunteer in your "free time." Find an organization that's working on an issue of concern to you and whose principles you can support, then contact them to find out how you can help.
Many NGOs also offer internship opportunities. More structured than basic volunteer work, internships require a formal commitment and may involve an application process. Such positions are similar to full- or part-time jobs, provide you with a greater breadth and depth of experience than simply volunteering, and tend to look better on a resumé. If you're a student, check with your program advisor to find out what NGO internships are available, if you can arrange your own "custom" internship, and if you can receive academic credit for your work.
You can contact NGOs directly to find out if they have volunteer or internship opportunities available. Some of the books and websites listed on this page also provide information, both general and specific, about volunteering or interning at an NGO.
NGO LINKS
Volunteering, internship, and employment information from some of the NGOs examined in Reshaping World Politics: