The Center is located in the Department of Anthropology, with the approval and support of the Chairperson and the Dean, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, University of Virginia. Complementing its small Executive Committee, the Center draws on the University of Virginia's faculty for its programs, representing different disciplines, schools, divisions, Centers, and related programs. 

A small interdisciplinary Standing Committee of scholars guides the Center, while its director is responsible for running it. The director also invites experts to discuss specific projects and participate in particular programs and activities. The Center actively promotes scholarly collaboration within the University and, as appropriate, at national and international levels. The Center's specific programs normally run in two, three or five year cycles. 

Main activities of the center currently are: 

•small round table faculty-student discussions/presentations, often with a designated speaker or discussant, on a previously announced subject or issue

•promotion of new courses and seminars on suitable subjects

•publication of books, manuals and occasional policy research reports

•collaborate with other similar organizations for promotion of public awareness on specific issues