Connecting Philadelphia to the world.

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is a non-partisan, international affairs nonprofit with 75 years of expertise in connecting Philadelphia to the world. Through authentic people-to-people diplomacy and exchange of ideas, the Council advances Philadelphia’s understanding of the world by creating the next generation of global citizens and furthering Philadelphia’s position as an international hub for business, education, culture, and sub-national diplomacy. The Council curates speaker programs, professional development, youth education, and public diplomacy. The Council hosts international exchange visitors and travels the world reaching more than 125 countries annually.

Get involved with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia

Join the Council in our mission of bringing global affairs education to Philadelphians of all ages

Join the Council

Become a member to provide year-long support of global affairs education for the youth of Philadelphia. Show your support as one of Philadelphia's premier global citizens and join a wide and diverse community of globally-minded Philadelphians.

Gain access to world affairs

Engage with world leaders, policy shapers, and experts on the most important global issues of our time. Go beyond the headlines to hear directly from these speakers at more than 25 events each year.

Support more than 3,000 Philadelphia students

95% of the world’s population and 85% of global economic growth is outside of the United States. 14% of Philadelphians are foreign-born. Help the Council to prepare Philadelphia’s youth – the next generation of political, cultural, and economic leaders – for success in an increasingly international workforce.

Featured Trip

January 23-07

Machu Picchu to the Galapagos

Encounter two of South America’s greatest treasures on this 16-day small group tour, exploring Machu Picchu’s enigmatic ruins and witnessing the fascinating Galapagos Islands’ wonders on a four-night adventure. Further discoveries await in Lima, the Sacred Valley, Cuzco, and Quito. Experience the Amazon rainforest with an exceptional 4-day/4-night pre-tour option.

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February 10-24

Journey through Vietnam

Encounter Vietnam’s breathtaking natural beauty, abiding tradition, and profoundly hospitable people on this comprehensive 15-day journey from French-accented Hanoi and stunning Ha Long Bay to imperial Hue and charming Hoi An, from the Mekong Delta to Saigon. Discover amazing Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh with an optional 5-day/3-night post-tour extension.

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April 10-22

Insider's Japan

This truly fascinating, well-crafted 13-day small group tour features urban and pastoral highlights, with Tokyo, cultural capital Kyoto, and magnificent Mt. Fuji. Engage in local life and head off the beaten path to the lovely historic cities of Takayama and Kanazawa. Discover Hiroshima reborn with an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension.

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January 15-30

Patagonian Frontiers

Relish the rare privilege of encounters with two of the world’s last great frontiers – Southern Patagonia’s majestic fjords and glaciers and breathtaking Torres del Paine. Along with visits to Buenos Aires and Santiago, this 16-day journey showcases South America’s remarkable diversity. Discover magnificent Iguazu Falls with a 2-day/2-night pre-tour option.

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Education Programs

  1. 09 12

    High School Membership

    A High School Membership confers access to all World Affairs Council Education programs!

  2. 09 25

    Citizen Diplomat Academy

    Citizen Diplomat Academy is a free, direct enrollment virtual high school exchange program open to students (ages...

Jr. Model United Nations

The Student Diplomat - Jr. Model United Nations Program is a five-month journey (January to May) that introduces over 750 middle school students to international affairs and cultural diplomacy. With an emphasis on developing students’ research, writing, cultural competency, and communication skills, the program helps meet the growing demand for global affairs curricula in local middle schools.

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The Council in the News

Bodine students don’t just study other cultures; they live them | The Philadelphia Tribune

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Bodine High School for International Affairs celebrates 40 years | The Philadelphia Tribune

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U.S. policy in Middle East pushes action without strategy | Opinion

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  • It was a terrific week with many excellent speakers. I think it was the best IDC I’ve attended and I’ve been going since 2010. Thanks for putting together such a great week. Everything appeared to go off without a hitch, at least from the attendees' point of view. The clouds even parted and the rain stopped when the group arrived at the Taipei representatives office... I look forward to next year.

    Bill Korstad

    "Inside Washington, DC" traveler
  • On behalf of Bishop Shanahan High School's World Affairs Club students and myself, I would like to thank you for the opportunity that you provided us [to attend an event with Secretary Janet Napolitano]. As always the event was amazing. The chatter in the van on the drive home sealed the testimony--tiny screens and texts were no match for the impact of Madame Secretary Janet Napolitano on teens (and their teacher).

    Joan Hayes

    English Department and World Affairs Club Moderator at Bishop Shanahan High School
  • "[The Whole Truth is]…a refreshingly thoughtful look at the challenges facing our country and the world. No shouting, no talking over each other; just respectful debate and discussion.”

    The Exeter Bulletin

  • “When traveling abroad, we like to get the real ‘feel’ of the country through sight, sounds & smells. This trip accomplished all spades! History, architecture, political atmosphere, social situations and seeing the standard of living up close and personal. The music and spirit of the people can only truly be appreciated by being in the country. Many thanks for a wonderful experience!”

    Suzanne Simpson, CT

  • “[The Whole Truth brings the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia’s] lecture and discussion series, considered to be a jewel on the political and diplomatic circuit, to a wider audience, one that did not have to be present in a Philadelphia auditorium to partake or participate in often probing debates.”

    Delaware County Daily Times

  • “This tour was wonderful! Our Cuban guide was one of the best! She knew a lot of history as well as current issues.”

    Dianna Jabis, NY

  • “The Game Drives were the highlight of this trip. Seeing the large animals in their natural habitats was just spectacular!”

    Barbara Weiss, CA

Winner of Philadelphia Magazine's Best of Philly 2019 - Speaker Series