About Us

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs provides insight, advances policy solutions, and fosters dialogue on critical global issues.

Our Vision and Mission

We believe an informed, engaged public with access to fact-based and balanced views on global issues helps to ensure effective US engagement and supports a more inclusive, equitable, and secure world. Founded in 1922, the Council is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit organization that takes no institutional policy positions.

Learn more about our mission and centers of excellence:

Council founders
Our History Founded in 1922 as a forum to engage Chicagoans in public discussions of world affairs at a time of increasing isolationism in the United States, the Council’s mission has evolved, and its reach has expanded nationally and globally in the digital era.
Our History
Council expert Flavia Carbonari poses a question during a workshop at the Pritzker Forum on Global Cities.
Our Community The Council is first and foremost a community where people who care about global affairs can connect — in person or virtually — with each other and with global leaders, influencers, and experts to explore ideas that will shape our future.
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The Next Generation

We believe it critical to engage the next generation of Chicago's, the nation's, and the world's leaders. The Council brings together rising young business, civic, educational, and student leaders to develop their global acumen and lend their voices to foreign policy discussions. We provide opportunities for them to dive deeper into understanding global challenges, strengthen their professional networks, and gain the knowledge necessary to explore issues and turn ideas into impact.

Funding

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Diverse funding sources enable the Council to maintain its independence. We are committed to being transparent about the sources of support for our operations, programs, research, and projects, and we retain complete editorial control of our work regardless of funding sources.
Supporters stand next to a sign denoting the sponsors for our 2018 Global Food Security Symposium

Connect with Us

Council board member Jennifer Scanlon speaking at the 2019 Pritzker Forum on Global Cities
Board of Directors

The Council’s governing body is composed of 86 individuals from diverse backgrounds who have a fiduciary responsibility to the Council’s future and financial health.

Council staff at the Young Professionals Network pub quiz
Staff

The Council's dedicated staff of over 60 individuals is committed to fostering dialogue on critical global issues and understanding of America's role in the world.

Council experts Claudio Orrega and Michael Nutter
Fellows & Experts

More than 50 resident and nonresident fellows and experts offer research, analysis, and commentary on global issues. Experts are available for interviews.

An audience at a Council event raising their hands
Members & Donors

Over 3,500 members and donors are part of a community who care about what is happening in the world and why it matters. Membership is open to all who would like to join.