NationMaster — Country comparisons using graphs, maps. Huge database of world statistics. Reference site contains country statistics, maps, flags, graphs and pie charts.

The Guardian 'Comment is Free' section — A wide range of articles written by leading politicians, authors, journalists, academics etc. UK-centric.

The Washington Post — Leading American newspaper. With wide-ranging articles on international relations. US-centric.

BBC — Arguably the most respected news and current affairs broadcaster in the World. Excellent news archive section, ideal for research.

The New York Times — Leading American newspaper. With wide-ranging articles on international relations. US-centric.

Al Jazeera International (English version) — International news from a previously under-represented Arab perspective. An increasingly authoratitive resource for news on the Middle East.

Le Monde (English version) — Respected French broadsheet. In-depth international news coverage. Impressive comment pieces written by some of Europe's leading intellectuals.

Le Monde Diplomatique (English version) — An offshoot of Le Monde. It offers a well-documented, scholarly and opinionated analysis of political events and issues. Originally established for the European diplomatic field, it now has widespread appeal.

Die Zeit (German version) — German daily broadsheet. Offers a comprehensive, 'liberal' take on world affairs.

The Economist — Weekly journal focusing on international politics and business news and opinion.

The Nation — America's oldest and most widely read weekly journal of 'progressive' political and cultural news, opinion and analysis.

The New Statesman — British magazine containing detailed analysis of international affairs. Edited by respected author and journalist John Kampfner.

The Times — Daily broadsheet with susbtantial international news coverage.

CNN International — World renowned news outlet.

The Financial Times — The big pink broadsheet. Respected international and economic coverage. Comment section often contains articles by leading academics and politicians.

Arab News (English version) — The Middle East's leading English-language daily newspaper. Good resource for Middle Eastern academic and popular opinion. Based in Jeddah.