Talya Stein, a recent BPAPM graduate and current master’s student at the London School of Economics, has published a peer-reviewed article with NPSIA’s Dr. Alex Wilner. The BPAPM program is proud to spotlight this achievement as Talya is among the few undergraduates to be published as a co-author in an academic journal.
The article, “Revisiting the Use and Utility of Domain Mapping: A Comparative Study of the Future(s) of Diplomacy and International Affairs” appears in the journal, Futures & Foresight Science (7:1, 2025). It draws on domain map data from strategic foresight workshops facilitated by Dr. Wilner for Canadian public servants on the future(s) of diplomacy and international affairs between 2018 and 2024. The paper contributes to the strategic foresight discipline by linking the theoretical utility of domain mapping to its practice. By analyzing nine unique domain maps, the article provides insights into how foresight and domain mapping are used within the Canadian government, highlights thematic shifts in how policy practitioners envision the future(s) of diplomacy and international affairs, and shares lessons learned regarding the technique of domain map facilitation—with a focus on representation, group dynamics, and data quality.
As a Research Assistant, Talya was responsible for collecting and analyzing raw data from past foresight workshops, in addition to contributing to analysis and writing. Her work connected Canadian strategic foresight findings and foreign policy trends to broader geopolitical dynamics. In this position, she also coordinated meetings and helped facilitate strategic foresight training workshops for senior-level Canadian policymakers, security and intelligence communities, and academics.
Talya’s Reflection
Throughout my studies, I have focused on the interconnected causes, consequences, and potential solutions to global policy problems. In this pursuit, I have found the strategic foresight discipline to be endlessly fascinating— it helps set the building blocks for anticipatory governance strategies, and reveals the relational dynamics of complex phenomena and political actors through interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches.
Dr. Wilner’s PAPM 4000 capstone seminar on strategic foresight introduced me to the discipline. Learning strategic foresight methods and engaging in mind-bending discussions about possible futures was the highlight of my BPAPM degree. I was fortunate to be offered a Research Assistant position with Dr. Wilner through the PAPM 4000 seminar, and am looking forward to working with him once again over the summer. This research opportunity and level of mentorship that was made available to me is a testament to the value and strength of the BPAPM program.
Congratulations on the publication, Talya! That’s an amazing accomplishment and a real reflection of all the effort you’ve put into your work. Wishing you all the best with whatever comes next—excited to see where this takes you!