Columbia International Affairs Online

Content

Using several institutional and official sources, the CIAO database covers many subjects about International current affairs, often closely related to PS studies, featuring a well-organized information structure and a great updating rate.

Selection

Developed as a collaborative effort between the Columbia University libraries and Columbia University Press with a grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, CIAO data are drawn from institutional and official sources worldwide

Format

A well-organized information structure allows for a comprehensive approach to the various subjects and data, complemented by non-textual elements such as maps and charts: abstracts, proceedings, occasional papers, projects and policy briefs

Information density

CIAO is a large collection covering many subjects, ranking from Conflict Resolution and prevention of terrorism to Gender Issues. Data and material are quite condensed and consistenly distributed through different layers of information

Content Pertinence to Political Science

Aimed at the international landscape, including democratization, NGOs, and political economy (to name a few), this databank seems extremely relevant to PS research

Updating Rate

Overall the site appears well managed and updated regularly, at least once a month