Among the articles that make up this edition are those initially presented in a symposium at the University of Delaware, which all lend themselves to comparative studies and the construction of knowledge. The dynamics of power and decision making are explored in a range of settings, discourses and practices. Self-reflective and critical analyses of social, cultural, historical and political contexts are central to work in social sciences and global understanding, and lead to better practices in public administration. A variety of topics in multiple continents are tackled in this edition: South America, North America, Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and East and Southern Africa.