1) Language: most Americans are not well trained in foreign languages….so this may be a major challenge.

1A) Study the language.

2) Research area: certain topics may be more sensitive in some parts of the world than others. For example, criminal justice and war crimes may be particularly sensitive in regions with recent civil strife and conflict.

2A) Do your homework in terms of history and current events. Seek out nationals from that country with diverse backgrounds (ethnicity, gender, age, socio-econ class, rural / urban origins).

3) Your nationality, politics, economics, philosophy, religion may be a challenge in some parts of the world. And even if they are not a problem for those in your immediate circle, others in a country may deem you guilty by association.

3A) Similar to 2A above.

4) Funding source (if any) or sponsoring organization relative to similar items in #3.

4A) similar to 2A & 3A above but for organizations rather than individual people.

5) Cultural awareness / sensitivity is sometimes an issue as ignorance of local culture and customs can cause others to misinterpret your ignorance/unawareness as rude or at worse, a direct insult.

5A) Similar to 2A…visit relevant restaurants, fairs/festivals, performances, coffee shops frequented by nationals of the country of interest. Contact the embassy / consulate for info, literature, and related cultural events in your area. If you are in college, seek out the International student club/association for contacts.

good luck in your international work! hope this helps.