Danish Institute for International Studies

The Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS) is an independent research institution, financed primarily by the Danish state. The institute conducts and communicates multidisciplinary research on globalisation, security, development and foreign policy.

DIIS employs approximately 100 people in both research and support staff. The researchers have different academic backgrounds, mostly in social studies, international development studies, military studies and anthropology. The institute contributes to the education of researchers both at home and in developing countries and employ a number of practitioners from relevant ministries for limited periods of time in order to contribute to the understanding of how DIIS’ work is used outside academic circles.

Furthermore, DIIS carries out primary research, research-based consultancy and commissioned work. Commissioned policy work can be requested by the Danish parliament, its ministries, NGOs and other clients. DIIS was established as a self-governing institution by law no. 411 of 6 June 2002, and began its activities on 1 January 2003. It is a merger of Danish Institute of International Affairs (DUPI), Copenhagen Peace Research Institute (COPRI), Centre for Development Research (CDR) and Danish Centre for Holocaust and Genocide Studies (DCHF).

DIIS is headed by a board mainly consisting of members drawn from academia, which ensures that the research lives up to scholarly obligations. The board appoints the director who is in charge of the day-to-day management of the institute. An internal research committee provides advice on strategic research planning.