Policy Research

Policy research integrates rigorous briefs, balanced op-eds, and a scholarly journal to foster comprehensive, nonpartisan policy discourse.

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Impact

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YIP's policy department stands as a pillar of intellectual rigor and nonpartisan analysis, encompassing a range of initiatives including policy briefs, op-eds, and the esteemed Journal of Policy Analysis. With a keen focus on thorough research and diverse viewpoints, our policy briefs offer concise, clear insights into pressing issues, while our op-eds stimulate vibrant, balanced discourse. The Journal further elevates this commitment to excellence, featuring in-depth explorations of policy matters by leading thinkers. Together, these elements form a comprehensive suite of resources, fostering a deeper understanding and engagement in the critical policy conversations of our time.
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Nonpartisanship

Integrity

Transparency

Impact-focus

Our policy work

Reaches millions of people in over 190 countries.

10M

Impressions

600+

Authors

1500+

Publications

Featured Content

01.

200+

Capstones

Capstone projects at YIP's Fellowship culminate the learning experience, where fellows apply their insights to address real-world problems, showcasing their evolution as future leaders .

02.

100+

Briefs

Simplified breakdowns of the nation's most pressing issues and proposed policies. Nonpartisan policy research briefs so everyone is on the same page.

04.

3 Vol.

Journal

A respected publication showcasing in-depth, nonpartisan research and discussions on contemporary policy issues.

03.

600+

Op-Eds

Opinion pieces from the Institute's General Body Membership. Explore thought provoking articles from our diverse voices.

Real problems. Real solutions. Real impact.

Global Rising Innovators in Policy (GRIP): The Policy Tank is a six-week fellowship where high school and college students team up to tackle pressing community issues and pitch their solutions Shark Tank-style. Through hands-on sessions in narrative-building, policy development, and public communication, participants will develop an innovative solution to some of the most pressing issues globally.

Top proposals will receive policy mentorships and a direct pathway to continue developing their work within the Institute for Youth in Policy. Winning teams will have the opportunity to pitch real solutions, draft real bills, and present to government officials.

Open to all high school and college students in the U.S. and internationally. Applicants outside the U.S. should be able to attend sessions in U.S. time zones. For any questions, contact grip@yipinstitute.org

Apply

2026 Op-Ed Contest

Do you want your voice to be heard? Enter YIP’s 2026 Op-Ed Contest for a chance to win $150 and secure a permanent position in our Policy Media department.

Submit

Contact your Legislator

Policy without a purpose won’t get anything done. Now more than ever, it’s crucial that your brilliant ideas get in the hands of the people who can truly make a difference: legislators. With this in mind, the Policy Media department at YIP invites you to use this valuable tool from Democracy.io to find the lawmakers who represent you. Simply input your address, city, and zip code, and select the applicable individuals. Feel free to personalize each message, or create a general template to send to everybody. The more often you communicate with them, the more likely they are to take these issues seriously and turn your ideas into real legislation!

Contact your Legislator

Matthew Jacob | Vice President of Publishing

The Policy Spotlight Award

I am honored to be named this month’s Policy Spotlight Awardee! Serving as the VP of Publishing has really taught me important leadership skills, and it makes me happy to be able to see my work gain appreciation from others. When I first became VP of Publishing in June 2025, we only published 2 op-eds and 2 briefs that month. In December, with the help of my colleagues, the Policy Media department published 6 op-eds and 8 briefs, creating a record of 14 publications in one month! I hope my work continues to improve the wonderful youth-led innovation that this institute represents.