World Affairs Councils of America (WACA)
WACA supports, strengthens, and represents a national network of more than 90 nonpartisan Councils on World Affairs working to enhance their communities’ knowledge and understanding of international developments through speaker programs, discussion groups, and educational experiences. WACA has been fulfilling this role for over 100 years and the WACA Annual Report highlights the impactful work of Councils as they foster a more globally informed electorate, promote civil discourse, and build community.
WACA National Conference
For nearly four decades, the WACA National Conference has brought World Affairs Council leaders and members to engage with top government officials, diplomats, business executives, innovators, journalists, educators, and students on the most pressing global issues and policy choices that impact our lives.
This annual event in Washington, DC, inspires diverse Councils from 90 communities to sustain the conversation on critical global issues and contribute to a stronger network and informed American public.
Academic WorldQuest™
Academic WorldQuest (AWQ) inspires high school students and teachers across the United States to embrace a culture of global engagement.
Nationwide, more than 40 local World Affairs Councils host community Academic WorldQuest competitions throughout the year, engaging over 3,000 students in schools across diverse geographic and economic lines as they vie for the ultimate prize: representing their communities at the Carlos and Malú Alvarez Academic WorldQuest National Competition in Washington, DC.
Engage America Series
National Conversations, One Council at a Time.
The WACA National Office partners with think tanks, foundations, NGOs, corporations, and occasionally government entities to arrange timely “national conversations” at several World Affairs Councils across the country on critical international topics.’