World Affairs Council

Our Work

The Council is essential for connecting student, educator, civic, and professional leaders around world issues.

Connecting the global to the local.

People-to-people exchange captures the power of citizen diplomacy. Dinners with volunteers, site visits, and meetings with professional counterparts form long-lasting friendships and build the foundation for addressing global issues.

Cultivating the next generation of global leaders and their mentors.

Classroom connections with international visitors, explorations of language and culture, and leadership opportunities prepare students to develop and apply global competence in today's and tomorrow's world. 

Connecting global ideas to our community.

Public programming, professional development, and volunteer opportunities build community that values integrity, diversity, empowerment, and global engagement and that is inspired to create a just and equitable world.

Want to learn more? Visit our website! Want to stay connected? Join our email list!

The Council relies upon an active group of participants and volunteers – and also members and donors like you who take the care and leadership to financially support our work.

Mission 

The mission of the World Affairs Council is to advance global understanding and cultivate enduring relationships within our local community and with the world, one conversation at a time. We envision an inclusive and informed community that is inspired to create a just and equitable world.

Description

Since its founding in 1951, the Council has long dedicated itself to fostering dialogue and debate about critical global issues. This is achieved through public events, Global Classroom programming for K-12 educators and students, and diplomacy initiatives that engage international delegations with our community. It is a fundamental formula that works well but is highly adaptable, allowing the Council to reach a large cross-section of Seattle with a wide range of topics. Our platform connects civic, academic, corporate, and individual members around world issues. We are part of a vibrant global city; our work ensures that Seattle is visible, engaged, and globally aware.