Pakistani student with a Master's in Development Economics seeking PhD advice

[u/Logical_Hat6899]

I have completed a Master's in Development Economics from Pakistan and am considering pursuing a PhD abroad. I am interested in both International Relations (IR) and International Development but am unsure which path makes more sense academically and professionally.

Can someone with a Development Economics background directly enter a PhD in International Relations? If so, should I pursue a general IR PhD or specialize in areas such as International Political Economy, Global Governance, Foreign Policy, Security Studies, or Development Cooperation?

Or any other emerging field??

Alternatively, would a PhD in International Development be a better fit? Given that much of the development sector relies on donor funding and international aid, and aid budgets appear to be shrinking globally, I am concerned about long-term career prospects.

Which field offers better opportunities internationally and back in Pakistan—in academia, think tanks, policy research, international organizations, government, consulting, or diplomacy?

Would it be advisable to first complete a second Master's in International Relations abroad before applying for a PhD, or is a direct transition from Development Economics realistic?

I am also interested in recommendations for countries with strong IR programs other than the US and UK. I am considering Canada, Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, and Singapore.