World Affairs Council of St Louis

About Us

The World Affairs Council of St. Louis is a 501(c)3 non-profit, non-partisan membership organization that connects the citizens of the St. Louis Metro region to the world. Founded in 1948, our mission is to offer programs which promote understanding, engagement, relationships, and leadership in World Affairs.

We are dedicated to advancing the power of citizen diplomacy and global connections through in-person international exchanges. We promote business, cultural understanding and relationships, introducing world leaders to the Gateway Region, providing education on global matters, and opportunities for all in the region to be global citizens.

What We Do

The World Affairs Council of St. Louis holds programs to expand our outreach to people of all ages within our region.

International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP): We are the US State Department’s exclusive partner in Eastern Missouri for the International Visitor Leadership Program. We connect current and emerging world leaders with local businesses, professionals, and citizens to exchange best practices, ideas, and cultures. Visitors explore diverse topics such as: agriculture, combating mis/disinformation, trade, entrepreneurship, public health, and more. We have hosted 950+ visitors from 110 countries since 2017. Since 2022, $500K was put into the St. Louis economy from this program.

Dinner Diplomacy: Our Dinner Diplomacy program allows St. Louisans to host small dinners in their homes or attend receptions for international visitors participating in the  International Visitor Leadership Program. These informal social gatherings allow for 1:1 conversation with new friends from around the world. Members receive priority to host and attend.

Saint Louis University Academic WorldQuest (AWQ): A primary focus of our education program is the Academic WorldQuest competition. AWQ tests high school students’ knowledge on pressing global issues. The winning team goes on to the national tournament in Washington, DC, funded by our Council. The top three teams receive cash prizes of $1,000, $750, and $500, respectively. In 2024, 30 teams (130 students) from 24 high schools competed.

Great Decisions Speaker Series: Great Decisions Speaker Series is co-sponsored by the World Affairs Council of St. Louis and UMSL Global. Topics are chosen annually by the Foreign Policy Association (FPA), focusing on the most critical global challenges to US foreign policy. Utilizing St. Louis connected experts, the programs aim to present all sides of each issue to inform and educate the public. Eight webinars are held each year.

Global Diplomacy Forums: We host ambassadors, consul generals, and international  and U.S. dignitaries to engage with with local business leaders and community members  to network, enhance bilateral relations, explore business opportunities, and exchange cultures. This program expands St. Louis’ reputation as a vibrant hub of global connections. Diplomats and dignitaries are hosted on a regular basis.

Young Global Network

The World Affairs Council of St. Louis is dedicated to education and retaining talent in St. Louis. Our goal for this network is to introduce and connect emerging St. Louis professionals to local leaders and educate them on international related career and volunteer opportunities in our area.

Career Opportunities in Foreign Service: Working with local universities, our “Career Opportunities in Foreign Service” panels may include representatives from the US State Department, Peace Corps, Fulbright, local businesses, and non-profits with an international or language focus. This free event gives college students chances to learn about local and global careers.

Speed Networking: We work with University of Missouri-St. Louis to organize Speed Networking events. These events provide real world employment assistance for students. Designed to introduce students to the interview process and assist them in marketing themselves, the events allow them to be more comfortable in interviews. Participating companies also get to meet potential new workforce talent.

Internships: The World Affairs Council offers a robust internship program allowing hands-on experience in event planning, grant writing, and professional networking opportunities. Students from local and national universities have volunteered at our council over the past few years. Our internship program has provided past interns with national recognition, jobs, and scholarship opportunities. Over 30 college interns since 2020.