The Comparative and International Education Society (CIES) is a global professional association that brings together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and students engaged in the comparative and international study of education.

 

Founded in 1956, CIES is one of the oldest and most influential organizations in the field, promoting cross-cultural dialogue, evidence-based research, and equitable educational development around the world.

 

CIES encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and critical inquiry into how education systems function across different cultural, economic, and political contexts. Members come from a wide range of sectors—including academia, NGOs, UN agencies, ministries of education, and donor organizations—working together to improve education policy and practice globally.

 

CIES supports its mission through:

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• Annual conferences bringing together thousands of members to share research and innovations.

• The Comparative Education Review (CER), a leading peer-reviewed journal.

• Special Interest Groups (SIGs), such as ours, Gender and Education, Global Learning Metrics, and more.

• Professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities for both early-career and seasoned professionals.