Search The Council

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs explores how to advance a more sustainable and inclusive global food system even with increasing water scarcity.

In 2018, the Council captured public and opinion leader attitudes on some of the most pressing foreign policy issues.

Cities are now more connected than ever before on a global scale. Yet local governments are not just spectators of this networked age: they are actively forging links across borders, taking part in setting the international agenda, and shifting the

Cities must step up when nation-states ignore the devastating impacts and economic costs of climate change, sea level rise, and environmental degradation.

This Chicago Council on Global Affairs report highlights the fact that America’s commitment to global food security is more important than ever.

Global cities are products of a liberal world order that is under threat from the rise of populist nationalism, protectionism, and growing authoritarianism.

As the country splinters along geographic and ideological lines, post-election divisions could portend the rise of a new American city-state movement.

Analysis from the Chicago Council on Global Affairs of the world’s largest economic entities reveals the economic influence of cities.

In an article published in the journal Globalizations, senior fellow Noah Toly explores the relationship between London and the UK's decision to leave the EU.

Given the rising global threats, turning inward is a politically expedient platform. But overcoming global challenges requires trust and cooperation.

In order for global cities to be able to grow—despite their home countries' economic challenges—they must focus on developing and attracting global talent.

The recent terrorist attack in Brussels is prompting serious and important thinking about the security of global cities. 

Using Chicago as a model, this report outlines big data strategies for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of cities around the world.

Millions of Americans live in urban food deserts without access to fresh food. A Council Emerging Leaders report details how some cities are beginning to find a way forward.

The 2012 Chicago Council Survey tracks public opinion on US foreign policy since the September 11 attacks, and includes an assessment of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

This report looks at emerging cities—namely Beijing, Shanghai, and Taipei—and their ability to attract, retain, and generate flows of ideas, capital, and people.

The 2005 Chicago Council Survey explored public opinion on democracy promotion post-September 11 world as one of the core principles of US foreign policy

The 2004 Chicago Council Survey explores public opinion on core concepts about foreign policy and the rights and responsibilities of nation-states.

The 1979 Chicago Council Survey found that the American people and leaders were interested in maintaining international involvement but were also concerned about hedging and restraining foreign commitments.

"The French leader’s rhetorical bombs demonstrate a lack of seriousness — they also undermine the Ukrainian cause," argues Ivo Daalder.

But they are becoming increasingly polarized across partisan groups, particularly among Democrats.

However, Republican support for providing US assistance continues to steadily decline.

The Chicago City Council has tripled its legislation on foreign policy in the last four years.

Republicans with a very favorable view of the former president seem to prefer a US role that is more independent and less cooperative.

We know Venice is sinking. What about Chicago, which accounts for about 234 square miles of land?

More Americans consider issues like weakening democracy and political polarization to be critical threats to the United States than foreign adversaries.

Republicans with a somewhat favorable or unfavorable view of the former president are more likely to say US assistance to Kyiv has been worth the cost.

Republicans with very favorable views of Trump are more likely than other GOP backers to support deportations for undocumented immigrants.

A way to reduce traffic and pollution and improve city transit systems, cordoned pricing exists in several cities around the world. Could it work in Chicago?

But Republicans and Democrats are sharply divided when it comes to immigration levels.

The US public views the Japan alliance as a significant national security benefit as concerns about China grow.

But a majority of Americans support efforts to mitigate its effects.

As the humanitarian toll in Gaza continues to climb and fears of a wider war grow, Americans are wary of direct military involvement in the conflict.

With a presidential election fast approaching, Taipei’s defense policy could go in multiple directions.

But a majority oppose sending US troops if China were to invade the island.

A plurality of Americans—and a majority of Republicans—also say that US leaders are not paying enough attention to US-China competition.

The public generally does not see current US trade policies toward China as benefiting Americans.

Distinguished Fellow Dan Glickman, former US secretary of agriculture, says he has little worry about the status of the farm bill.

"Public opinion is still an important form of accountability," Elizabeth Shackelford writes.

Emerging AgTech innovations have the potential to radically improve the sustainability, profitability, and accessibility of US-produced food.

The US public supports meeting with the leaders of Russia, China, North Korea, Cuba, and more.

Nonresident Fellow Sascha Haselmayer discusses his new book, which synthesizes the lessons he learned from his work with cities, governments, and NGOs.

Half favor using US forces to defend South Korea if invaded by North Korea, down from 55 percent in 2022. 

But public opinion has likely shifted following Hamas' attacks on Israel.

Overall, Americans say the status quo between Israelis and Palestinians is unacceptable.

The success of ambitious states will be determined by their ability to shape global infrastructures and the cities they connect around the world.

For the first time, a majority of Republicans think the United States should stay out of world affairs.

The digital revolution is rapidly transforming cities, and a new vision and set of protocols is needed for them to leverage the promises of connectivity.

Poll finds a majority of Americans value the US security partnership with Israel but say the status quo between Israel and Palestinians is unacceptable.

As the war in Ukraine continues, majorities say the United States should maintain or increase its commitment to NATO.