The Global Economic and Risk Outlook for 2026
2026-01-13 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Parma-Snow Branch, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 44134, United States
Registration for this event has closed, but please email jconnell@ccwa.org if you’d like to attend.
The Cleveland Council on World Affairs is honored to host Michael Weidokal for the John A. Hellman Foreign Policy Forum. Please note that this will be held at the Parma-Snow Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library!
The global economy has been battered by a series of crises in recent years, and 2026 appears likely to be another year of economic and geopolitical instability. The frequency of major world events and the ever-increasing pace of technological change has made it difficult to accurately assess the global economic situation. This uncertainty creates challenges for individuals and businesses around the globe, including here in Cleveland. To help make sense of the evolving economic environment, CCWA is joined by Michael Weidokal, Founder and Executive Director of International Strategic Analysis (ISA).
Mr. Weidokal will provide his thoughts on how the global economy is shaping up for 2026, risk factors to be aware of, and how you can prepare for the changes that lie in store for the coming year. He will outline some of the near- and long-term opportunities for economic growth, as well as the leading threats to this growth. He will take a close look at how demographic changes will impact the labor force and the role technology may play in solving or deepening that issue. Crucially, all of his analysis is filtered through the lens of geopolitics. As Mr. Weidokal will demonstrate, it is impossible to separate the global economy from broader world affairs.
Michael Weidokal’s ability to combine international economics, geopolitics, and history allows him to have a unique perspective on global developments. His areas of expertise include the fields of international economic competitiveness, global market selection, and geopolitical risk assessment. Over the course of his career, Mr. Weidokal has worked with a number of major professional services firms and multinational organizations, helping them to develop models of maximizing the benefits while minimizing the risks of doing business in international markets. In 2003, he founded International Strategic Analysis (ISA), and his firm quickly became the leading provider of country intelligence, economic forecasting, and international market studies for a range of clients around the world, including Amazon, Lockheed Martin, Ford, Siemens, and FedEx.

Tariffs and Trade Agreements: Navigating unprecedented change
2026-01-22 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join CCWA for a series of webinars focused on current developments in international trade and economics. Designed for a business audience, but open to all, webinars will cover the relevant legal and regulatory context, recent and ongoing developments, risks and opportunities, and why this topic is relevant to the Cleveland community.
Many of the assumptions that the world has held about how international trade works have been upended in recent years. The increased use of tariffs has caused many businesses and industries to reevaluate their supply chains and ways of doing business. Cleveland’s economy is inextricably linked to global trade. Cuyahoga and our surrounding counties exported more than $10 billion in goods in 2023, while more than 800 foreign-owned companies operate in the region. Cleveland’s world-class healthcare, manufacturing, and technology industries rely on raw materials and components from Canada, Mexico, Germany, China, Japan, and many more. How can Cleveland businesses set themselves up for success in this new age of trade?
This program is the first session of a four-part webinar series. Participants can register for each session individually, or purchase the entire series below.

Session 2, February 26, 2026: Renegotiation of the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement: The future of trade with our neighbors
Session 3, March 26, 2026 Forced Labor in Global Supply Chains: A rapidly evolving regulatory environment
Session 4, April 23, 2026: Critical Minerals and Chinese Export Controls: Impacts on U.S. business

The U.S. G20 Presidency: Narrowed Focus Amid Sharp Divisions
2026-01-22 17:45 - 20:15 (America/New_York) | The Union Club, 1211 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44115, United States
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations (CCFR) is exclusive to Diplomat and Ambassador members and their guests. An email with registration information has been sent to eligible members on Monday, January 12.
CCWA is honored to host Caitlin Welsh, director for global economic engagement at the National Security Council from 2018-2020, to share her insights on this year’s U.S. G20 presidency and what it means for the future of multilateralism. The return of the G20 presidency to the United States follows a period of expansion within the G20, both in terms of membership as well as agenda items. Thus far, the U.S. seems intent to redirect the G20 away from its recent development-centered agenda and towards an agenda anchored in economic growth and deregulation. Such a shift raises fundamental questions about the G20’s purpose, legitimacy, and effectiveness at a moment when multilateralism itself is increasingly under strain.
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations is a dinner and dialogue series that provides unparalleled access to top experts and diplomats for candid discussions of today’s most pressing international issues. Participation is exclusive to Diplomat and Ambassador members and their guests. To join, renew, or upgrade your membership, please click here.

The Future of the UN Security Council: An Evening with Ambassador Samuel Žbogar
2026-02-18 17:15 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | The City Club of Cleveland, 1317 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44115, United States
CCWA is proud to bring you this Foreign Policy Forum in partnership with The City Club of Cleveland. Please read for important information on registration. Registration is done through The City Club’s website, but CCWA members can still register at the appropriate membership rate using the discount codes below. Please note that these discount codes are for CCWA members only.
CCWA Global Citizen and Global Family Members: Please select a City Club “Non-Member” ticket and use discount code [CCWAMEM] to receive your ticket at your CCWA membership rate.
CCWA Global Supporters, Diplomats, Ambassadors, and Students: Please select a City Club “Non-Member” ticket and use discount code [CCWAVIP] to receive your ticket at your CCWA membership rate.
To register for this event, please do so through The City Club of Cleveland event webpage (click here).

In December 2025, Slovenia completed its two-year term on the United Nations Security Council—participating in 558 formal meetings and 238 consultations of the Security Council, and so much more. Throughout its term, Slovenia addressed the most pressing issues, upheld its values, and shared its expertise globally to maintain international peace and security.
More recently, in its final month as a member of the UN Security Council, Slovenia held the Presidency for the second time. A visit to Syria and Lebanon was on the agenda, as well as topics related to Bosnia, Sudan, Palestine, Afghanistan, and others. At the helm is Ambassador Samuel Žbogar, who brings a wealth of policy knowledge and experience to the table. There may be few others with such timely insights on global affairs that have recently dominated the headlines.
In addition to his term in the Security Council, Ambassador Žbogar has had an impressive diplomatic career. He has served as Slovenia’s Foreign Minister, Deputy Foreign Minister, Ambassador to the US, and Head of the EU Delegation to Kosovo and North Macedonia.
Join us as Ambassador Žbogar sits down with CCWA’s Marti Flacks and reflects on Slovenia’s tenure on the UN Security Council, the state of global affairs, and more.

Renegotiation of the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement: The future of trade with our neighbors
2026-02-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join CCWA for a series of webinars focused on current developments in international trade and economics. Designed for a business audience, but open to all, webinars will cover the relevant legal and regulatory context, recent and ongoing developments, risks and opportunities, and why this topic is relevant to the Cleveland community.
Canada is Ohio’s largest trading partner; Mexico is second. In fact, Ohio sells more goods to Canada than to its next six largest foreign markets combined. As the parties begin mandatory negotiations on the future of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement in 2026, what might a revised (or discontinued) USMCA mean for Northeast Ohio?
This program is the second session of a four-part webinar series. Interested in signing up for all four webinar sessions at a discounted rate? Visit the first sessions webpage (click here) to do so!

Session 1, January 22, 2026: Tariffs and Trade Agreements: Navigating unprecedented change
Session 3, March 26, 2026: Forced Labor in Global Supply Chains: A rapidly evolving regulatory environment
Session 4, April 23, 2026: Critical Minerals and Chinese Export Controls: Impacts on U.S. business

Global Gauntlet 2026: CCWA’s World Trivia Challenge
2026-02-26 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Market Garden Brewery, 1947 West 25th St., Cleveland, 1947 West 25th Street, Cleveland, OH, 44113, United States
Mark your calendars for an evening of world trivia, food, and prizes!
Join us on Thursday, February 26th for our annual Global Gauntlet World Trivia Challenge! Teams of up to four compete to answer questions that test your knowledge of international affairs, current events, and foreign policy, while competing for great prizes from local businesses.
Participants will enjoy a selection of small plates from Market Garden Brewery’s kitchen and there will be a private cash bar with fresh craft beer, cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
The proceeds from this event will go directly to CCWA’s Carter E. Strang Young Professionals Advisory Committee to organize events that support our mission to engage young, diverse Clevelanders in international affairs.
Interested in becoming a sponsor, or have prizes to donate? Please visit *this webpage* for more information!
Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
Time: 6:30PM – 8:30PM; Doors open at 6:00 PM
Location: Market Garden Brewery, 1947 West 25th St., Cleveland
Admission: Individuals: $45, Teams up to 4: $160; Individual Students: $30, Student Teams up to 4: $110. Advance registration is required. Walk-ins will not be accepted.
With questions, please contact Jacob Connell at jconnell@ccwa.org.

Dinner Hosting: U.S. Health Leadership
2026-03-01 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | OH
CCWA is looking for internationally minded individuals and families to host international exchange participants for dinner on Sunday, March 1st.
Participants from across the globe will be in Cleveland on an exchange project called U.S. Health Leadership.
Dinner Hosting FAQ
No need for an elaborate multi-course meal. Dinner does not need to be expensive and can be done as easily as you’d like. A potluck or a catered meal are also possibilities. Schedule pending, a weekend brunch or lunch may also be arranged.
The more the merrier. You’re welcome to invite family members or friends to help welcome your international guests.
Who’s coming to dinner? Groups range from 2 – 5 visitors—an interpreter may be included, too. Background information will be provided typically one week in advance. This includes visitor name, profession, and dietary restrictions.
Sign me up! To host this group, please contact Trey Rainey at trainey@ccwa.org. We ask first time hosts to fill out a Citizen Diplomat profile form here. A CCWA staff member will also briefly meet you in person at your home prior to hosting.

What Comes Next for Venezuela?
2026-03-11 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Parma-Snow Branch, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 44134, United States
Registration for this event has closed. Walk-ins are welcome, but please email jconnell@ccwa.org to provide advance notice.
The Cleveland Council on World Affairs is honored to host Ambassador William Brownfield for the Frederick Emeny Foreign Policy Forum. Please note that this event will be held at the Parma-Snow Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library.
Barely two months ago, in a move many now see as foreshadowing U.S. action in Iran, the U.S. military launched an operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and bring him to the United States to stand trial. Many people in Venezuela and around the world were grateful to see the demise of Maduro’s brutal and corrupt regime, but the U.S. move left open critical questions about the future of governance in Venezuela, as well as what the U.S. action means for our global posture towards our adversaries, including Cuba and elsewhere.
CCWA is honored to host Ambassador William (Bill) Brownfield to discuss these timely issues. Ambassador Brownfield is a former U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela and former Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement, and will provide his unique perspective and analysis on the future of Venezuela, U.S. involvement there, and how these events may shape U.S. relations across the Western Hemisphere. Are these events in Venezuela a one-off occurrence, or has the U.S. set a new standard for engagement in the region?

Please note that this event will be held at the Parma-Snow Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library. After the program, we encourage you to continue the conversation with CCWA’s Carter E. Strang Young Professionals Advisory Committee down the street at Parma Tavern. All are welcome!

Dinner Hosting: Research Security & International Science Collaboration
2026-03-22 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | OH
CCWA is looking for internationally minded individuals and families to host international exchange participants for dinner on Sunday, March 22nd.
Participants from Europe will be in Cleveland on an exchange project called Research Security & International Science Collaboration.
Dinner Hosting FAQ
No need for an elaborate multi-course meal. Dinner does not need to be expensive and can be done as easily as you’d like. A potluck or a catered meal are also possibilities. Schedule pending, a weekend brunch or lunch may also be arranged.
The more the merrier. You’re welcome to invite family members or friends to help welcome your international guests.
Who’s coming to dinner? Groups range from 2 – 5 visitors—an interpreter may be included, too. Background information will be provided typically one week in advance. This includes visitor name, profession, and dietary restrictions.
Sign me up! To host this group, please contact Trey Rainey at trainey@ccwa.org. We ask first time hosts to fill out a Citizen Diplomat profile form here. A CCWA staff member will also briefly meet you in person at your home prior to hosting.

The Use of Force and the Future of International Law
2026-03-25 17:45 - 20:15 (America/New_York) | The Union Club, 1211 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44115, United States
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations (CCFR) is exclusive to Diplomat and Ambassador members and their guests. An email with registration information has been sent to eligible members on Friday, March 13.
The first few months of 2026 have seen the executive branch of the United States test the limits of its authority to use force against international actors – from the U.S. maritime bombing campaign against suspected drug boats, to the military incursion into Venezuela, to significant military action against Iran. Each has raised serious questions about compliance with U.S. domestic law and, increasingly, international law as well.
CCWA is honored to host Tess Bridgeman, Co-Editor in Chief of Just Security. Her presentation will help us understand the legal framework that governs how and when a President can use military force overseas, historical precedents, and the role of Congress.
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations is a dinner and dialogue series that provides unparalleled access to top experts and diplomats for candid discussions of today’s most pressing international issues. Participation is exclusive to Diplomat and Ambassador members and their guests. To join, renew, or upgrade your membership, please click here.

Forced Labor in Global Supply Chains: A rapidly evolving regulatory environment
2026-03-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join CCWA for a series of webinars focused on current developments in international trade and economics. Designed for a business audience, but open to all, webinars will cover the relevant legal and regulatory context, recent and ongoing developments, risks and opportunities, and why this topic is relevant to the Cleveland community.
Some of Northeast Ohio’s most important industries, including automotive, aerospace, and industrial and manufacturing materials, have been targeted by the U.S. government for enforcement of trade laws banning the import of goods made with forced labor. More than $3.7 billion in goods have been stopped at the U.S. border since the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act went into effect in 2022, and the Trump Administration has emphasized its intent to continue enforcement. What do Cleveland-area companies need to know about this and similar laws, and where is this effort headed?
This program is the third session of a four-part webinar series. See below for details on the other webinars!

Session 1, January 22, 2026: Tariffs and Trade Agreements: Navigating unprecedented change
Session 2, February 26, 2026: Renegotiation of the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement: The future of trade with our neighbors
Session 4, April 23, 2026: Critical Minerals and Chinese Export Controls: Impacts on U.S. business

Inside the White House Situation Room
2026-03-31 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Parma-Snow Branch, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 44134, United States
Registration has closed for this event. Please contact jconnell@ccwa.org with questions.
In 1961, after the Bay of Pigs invasion, President John F. Kennedy requested a secure facility to feed intelligence information directly into the White House. Thus, the White House Situation Room was created. For decades now, the Situation Room has been the venue where our nation’s leaders gather during critically important moments in our history. In 2003, it’s where George W. Bush gave the fateful order to begin the Iraq War. And in 2011, Barack Obama sat transfixed, watching in real time as Navy Seals executed a plan to capture or kill Osama bin Laden.
CCWA is honored to host Marc Gustafson, former senior director of the White House Situation Room, to share his insights into the space where some of the nation’s most impactful decisions are made. Marc will walk through the various functions of the Situation Room and the detailed protocols that govern their operations. He’ll also seek to clarify the fact from fiction in Hollywood portrayals of the Situation Room, particularly in Netflix’s recent movie “A House of Dynamite.” There aren’t many opportunities to get an inside look at one of the world’s most secure locations — don’t miss out!
Marc Gustafson is the senior director of analysis at Eurasia Group. He brings over two decades of national security and intelligence experience to the role. Prior to joining Eurasia Group, Marc served in multiple high-level roles at the White House under presidents Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. He was the director of the White House Situation Room, the White House chief of intelligence, and the senior director for Africa. Marc also spent 15 years at the CIA as a senior manager and analyst.

Please note that this event will be held at the Parma-Snow Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library. After the program, we encourage you to continue the conversation with CCWA’s Carter E. Strang Young Professionals Advisory Committee down the street at Parma Tavern. All are welcome!

Dinner Hosting: Education in the Digital Age
2026-04-04 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | OH
CCWA is looking for internationally minded individuals and families to host international exchange participants for dinner on Saturday, April 4th.
Participants from across the globe will be in Cleveland on an exchange project called Education in the Digital Age
Dinner Hosting FAQ
No need for an elaborate multi-course meal. Dinner does not need to be expensive and can be done as easily as you’d like. A potluck or a catered meal are also possibilities. Schedule pending, a weekend brunch or lunch may also be arranged.
The more the merrier. You’re welcome to invite family members or friends to help welcome your international guests.
Who’s coming to dinner? Groups range from 2 – 5 visitors—an interpreter may be included, too. Background information will be provided typically one week in advance. This includes visitor name, profession, and dietary restrictions.
Sign me up! To host this group, please contact Trey Rainey at trainey@ccwa.org. We ask first time hosts to fill out a Citizen Diplomat profile form here. A CCWA staff member will also briefly meet you in person at your home prior to hosting.

Dinner Hosting: Regional Collaboration to Combat Transnational Crime
2026-04-04 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | OH
CCWA is looking for internationally minded individuals and families to host international exchange participants for dinner on Saturday, April 4th.
Participants from Europe will be in Cleveland on an exchange project called Regional Collaboration to Combat Transnational Crime
Dinner Hosting FAQ
No need for an elaborate multi-course meal. Dinner does not need to be expensive and can be done as easily as you’d like. A potluck or a catered meal are also possibilities. Schedule pending, a weekend brunch or lunch may also be arranged.
The more the merrier. You’re welcome to invite family members or friends to help welcome your international guests.
Who’s coming to dinner? Groups range from 2 – 5 visitors—an interpreter may be included, too. Background information will be provided typically one week in advance. This includes visitor name, profession, and dietary restrictions.
Sign me up! To host this group, please contact Trey Rainey at trainey@ccwa.org. We ask first time hosts to fill out a Citizen Diplomat profile form here. A CCWA staff member will also briefly meet you in person at your home prior to hosting.

Critical Minerals and Chinese Export Controls: Impacts on U.S. business
2026-04-21 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join CCWA for a series of webinars focused on current developments in international trade and economics. Designed for a business audience, but open to all, webinars will cover the relevant legal and regulatory context, recent and ongoing developments, risks and opportunities, and why this topic is relevant to the Cleveland community.
No economic issue has captured more attention from Washington’s political class in the last two years than critical minerals. But the impacts of China’s dominance of critical mineral production and processing extend to companies right here in Northeast Ohio. How will negotiations to secure access to critical minerals – from China or elsewhere – impact Ohio’s supply chains, and the future of technologies critical to our economy?
David Abraham is the director ofThree Legged Capital and an affiliate professor at Boise State University. David is the author of The Elements of Power: Gadgets, Guns, and the Struggle for a Sustainable Future in the Rare Metal Age.
This program is the fourth session of a four-part webinar series. Interested in signing up for all four webinar sessions at a discounted rate? Visit the first sessions webpage (click here) to do so!

Session 1, January 22, 2026: Tariffs and Trade Agreements: Navigating unprecedented change
Session 2, February 26, 2026: Renegotiation of the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement: The future of trade with our neighbors
Session 3, March 26, 2026: Forced Labor in Global Supply Chains: A rapidly evolving regulatory environment

Nuclear Weapons Policy in a Hot World
2026-05-14 17:45 - 20:15 (America/New_York) | The Union Club, 1211 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44115, United States
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations (CCFR) is exclusive to Diplomat and Ambassador members and their guests. An email with registration information has been sent to eligible members on Friday, March 13.
After decades of relatively successful policies of nuclear restraint, the world is facing new challenges amidst the erosion of important arms control agreements in an increasingly volatile global environment. The war in Ukraine reminded folks why nuclear weapons are seen as powerful deterrents, but it also illustrated the risks of living in a world where those weapons shape decision-making. The war against Iran has demonstrated that military action, even when intended to prevent proliferation, can increase the incentives for a nation to produce nuclear weapons and reduce international visibility into nuclear weapons programs. These conflicts highlight the need for a broad, balanced approach that recognizes the reality of deterrence in today’s world, while still prioritizing diplomacy and reducing reliance on nuclear weapons.
CCFR is honored to host Emma Belcher, President of Ploughshares, to help us understand the nuances of nuclear weapons policy, the convergence of artificial intelligence and nuclear weapons, and the practical, tangible ways the world can reduce nuclear risk.
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations is a dinner and dialogue series that provides unparalleled access to top experts and diplomats for candid discussions of today’s most pressing international issues. Participation is exclusive to Diplomat and Ambassador members and their guests. To join, renew, or upgrade your membership, please click here.

Young Professionals Spring Social
2026-05-21 17:30 - 20:00 UTC | Whistle Taproom, 818 Huron Road E., Cleveland, OH, 44115, United States
CCWA’s Carter E. Strang Young Professionals Advisory Committee (YPAC) invites you to join us for an evening of networking with other globally-minded young professionals! This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your network, have stimulating conversations, and learn more about the opportunities that CCWA has for young professionals. Complimentary appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available.
YPAC is a body of young professionals who support the work of CCWA in its efforts to engage young professionals and students in our programming. YPAC members do this by providing program feedback and insight to the board and staff of CCWA, leading coordination of young professional events, and serving as community ambassadors for CCWA and its programs.
To learn more about YPAC and meet current members, click here.
Location: Whistle Taproom, 818 Huron Rd E, Cleveland, OH 44115

Patience, Power, and Purges: A Closer Look at China's Security Policy
2026-06-03 17:45 - 20:15 (America/New_York) | The Union Club, 1211 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44115, United States
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations (CCFR) is exclusive to Under 35, Diplomat, and Ambassador members and their guests. An email with registration information will be sent to eligible members on Wednesday, May 20.
CCFR is honored to host Brian Hart, Deputy Director and Fellow of the China Power Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, to help us understand China’s security priorities, the dynamics at play among China’s leadership, and now, how China hopes to emerge as a beneficiary of the Iran war.
The Cleveland Committee on Foreign Relations is a dinner and dialogue series that provides unparalleled access to top experts and diplomats for candid discussions of today’s most pressing international issues. Participation is exclusive to Diplomat and Ambassador members and their guests. To join, renew, or upgrade your membership, please click here.

Celebrate the World Cup with CCWA!
2026-06-17 16:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Masthead Brewing Co., 1261 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH, 44114, United States
This summer, 48 nations will compete for the most coveted trophy in sports, and CCWA is excited to bring you into the heart of the action. Join us at Masthead Brewing Co. on Wednesday, June 17 to watch high-stakes soccer, play World Cup bingo, and embrace the wonderful atmosphere and community of the World Cup! This event is free and open to all, so grab your friends and kick it with CCWA!
The Schedule: England vs. Croatia, 4:00 – 6:00pm; Ghana vs. Panama 7:00 – 9:00pm. (The opening matches for Group L.)
The Soccer: In a rematch of the 2018 World Cup semifinal, European heavyweights England and Croatia face-off to start their tournaments. Both nations have their sights set on advancing deep into the knockout rounds, but their group mates Ghana and Panama might have something to say about that. At the World Cup for the fifth time, Ghana had an enormously impressive qualifying campaign. Many believe that this team could provide Ghana’s best-ever finish at a World Cup. However, they must be careful not to overlook Panama, as while not a traditional powerhouse, Panama was arguably Central America’s most impressive team over the last year. They will see this opening match against Ghana as the perfect opportunity to make some noise and prove their doubters wrong!
The event is free of charge, but advance registration is required. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Global Ambassadors Debrief and Impact Session
2026-06-23 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Midtown Collaboration Center, 1974 E. 66th St., Cleveland, OH, 44103, United States
CCWA invites you to join the Global Ambassadors Debrief and Impact Session on June 23, 2026, from 5:30-7:00pm. As we wrap up this year’s program, the 2025-2026 Global Ambassadors look forward to sharing program impact on their work and their leadership development, lessons learned, best practices that can be applied in our community, and the energy and inspiration they have gained as a part of this program. We are eager to share the impact of the program with you!
The event is free of charge, but advance registration is required.

Navigating Trade Policy
2026-06-25 09:00 - 2026-06-26 12:30 (America/New_York) | Oswald Tower, 950 Main Avenue, Cleveland, 44113, United States
This program has been cancelled. Refunds will be issued to those who have registered for the program.
CCWA is partnering with world-renowned think tank and executive education provider, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), to provide a 1 ½ day in-person executive education opportunity in Cleveland on June 25-26, 2026. CSIS Executive Education provides innovative programming for problem-solvers and professionals, leveraging world-class experts and coaches to cultivate a one-of-a-kind learning environment.
Navigating Trade Policy is designed for mid-career and senior public and private sector professionals, and will focus on the fundamentals that any current or future leader needs to know about the international trade system, U.S. trade policy, and global supply chains—customized to focus on the topics most relevant to Northeast Ohio organizations.
This course is targeted at mid-career and senior business executives who are looking for a greater understanding of global economic issues, including:

Supply chain professionals
Government affairs representatives
Compliance specialists
International business development and export market promotion professionals
Market analysts and finance specialists

If you work in supply chain strategy and management, government affairs, compliance, international business development or export market identification, market analysis, or finance, this course is for you!
The course is conducted by CSIS and CCWA experts with decades of experience in global trade and economics, and roots in Ohio:

Scott Miller
Senior Mentor (Non-Resident), CSIS Executive Education
Former Director for Global Trade Policy, Procter & Gamble

Meredith Broadbent
Senior Advisor (Non-Resident), Economics Program, CSIS
Former Chair, U.S. International Trade Commission

Marti Flacks
Chief Executive Officer, CCWA
Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Supply Chains, U.S. Department of Commerce

In partnership with:

Tipping the Scales: An Emergent India on the World Stage
2026-06-25 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | The Union Club, 1211 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44115, United States
This program has been RESCHEDULED. It will now be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
The Cleveland Council on World Affairs is honored to host Akriti Vasudeva Kalyankar for the Dr. Raj and Karen Aggarwal Forum on India. Please note that this event will be held at the Union Club of Cleveland.
With the world’s largest population and an economy with enormous potential for growth, India is a global swing state, one whose outlook and actions will significantly influence the international order throughout the 21st century. While India maintains an independent approach to foreign policy, the United States had prioritized developing a strategic relationship with India over the past 25 years. There is a growing number of shared interests between the U.S. and India, including defense cooperation, trade and development goals, evolving supply chains, and concerns about the expansion of Chinese power.
CCWA is glad to be joined by The Stimson Center’s Akriti Vasudeva Kalyankar to share her analysis on India, its foreign policy, and its relationship with the United States. How will South Asia’s dominant power position itself on the world stage as it rises to prominence? What should we expect from U.S.-India relations moving forward, particularly as it relates to the great power competition with China?
Akriti Vasudeva Kalyankar is a Fellow with the South Asia Program at the Stimson Center, with over 10 years experience working across think-tanks and media in the United States and India. Her research focuses on U.S.-China-India strategic dynamics, geopolitics of Southern Asia and the Indo-Pacific, U.S.-India defense and strategic cooperation, and Indian foreign policy. She is Editor-in-Chief of South Asian Voices, an online magazine featuring strategic analysis and commentary on the security, politics, and economics of the subcontinent. She also serves as an Adjunct Lecturer in the School of Professional and Area Studies at the U.S. Foreign Service Institute.

Dinner Hosting: Youth in the Political Process
2026-06-28 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | OH
CCWA is looking for internationally minded individuals and families to host international exchange participants for dinner on Sunday, June 28th.
Participants from across the world will be in Cleveland on an exchange project called Youth in the Political Process
Dinner Hosting FAQ
No need for an elaborate multi-course meal. Dinner does not need to be expensive and can be done as easily as you’d like. A potluck or a catered meal are also possibilities. Schedule pending, a weekend brunch or lunch may also be arranged.
The more the merrier. You’re welcome to invite family members or friends to help welcome your international guests.
Who’s coming to dinner? Groups range from 2 – 5 visitors—an interpreter may be included, too. Background information will be provided typically one week in advance. This includes visitor name, profession, and dietary restrictions.
Sign me up! To host this group, please contact Trey Rainey at trainey@ccwa.org. We ask first time hosts to fill out a Citizen Diplomat profile form here. A CCWA staff member will also briefly meet you in person at your home prior to hosting.

CCWA On the Road: Visit to the Flight 93 Memorial and Pittsburgh, PA
2026-08-22 - 2026-08-23 | OH
Few events have shaped world history and U.S. foreign policy in our lifetimes as significantly as September 11, 2001. As we approach the 25th anniversary of that turning point in history, join CCWA as we honor the legacy of that tragic day, and look ahead to how it will continue to shape the world in the future.
Cleveland was not a bystander to the events of September 11, 2001. It was the Cleveland Air Route Traffic Control Center that first recognized Flight 93 had been hijacked and later that it had crashed in a field near Shanksville, PA. Controllers here heard the chilling radio transmission from the cockpit, tracked the plane as it went silent and veered off course, and raised an alarm that set the emergency response in motion across the country. That morning, downtown Cleveland was evacuated as, unbeknownst to us, the Flight 93 passengers were fighting for their lives. That flight was the only one of the four hijacked planes that did not reach its target – all because of the bravery of 40 passengers and crew members who decided to fight back.
Today, the site of the 2001 crash hosts a 9/11 Museum and a powerful memorial to the victims of Flight 93. Just over three hours from Cleveland, it’s an important place of remembrance and reckoning.
Join CCWA as we pay homage to those heroes lost on 9/11 and consider how those events have shaped world history and our own lives. This overnight trip will begin with a visit to the Memorial and Museum. After lunch, we will head to Pittsburgh, PA, where we’ll hear from a speaker about the impact of September 11 on the United States and the world. We’ll overnight in Pittsburgh and return to Cleveland the next day.
Rough Itinerary:
Day 1:

7:00am Depart Cleveland
10:30am: Flight 93 National Memorial
12:30pm: Lunch and group discussion
2:00pm: Depart for Pittsburgh
3:30pm: Check into hotel and free time
6:30pm: Dinner and speaker program

Day 2:

Free time in Pittsburgh
12:00pm: Return to Cleveland

We expect the program to cost approximately $450 per person, inclusive of hotel (double occupancy), and we need a minimum of 12 participants to make it happen. If you are interested in joining, please register your interest below, and select which dates you are available. No payment is needed at this time. We will contact you once we finalize details.

Hosting Opportunity - Experience America Program for Spain
2026-08-31 | OH
CCWA is seeking families to host a high school student from Spain (ages 15-16) from August 31 – September 26, 2026.
Students from Spain will attend classes at Mayfield High School three days per week with two days of community programming arranged by CCWA (transportation provided). Students are here to share culture, practice English, and learn about global issues. Study abroad students must have good grades and proficiency in English.
Host Family Requirements: Preference for families with a student attending high school at the start of the 2026-27 school year; ability to assist with transportation to Mayfield High School during school days (three days per week); a bedroom for the student with their own bed (students may share a room with another student of the same gender); include exchange student in activities in evenings and weekends; provide meals; and complete an application and onboarding process.
Learn more — Sign up for an information session with CCWA on Thursday, May 28.
Sign up to host! Fill out short host family application.

Model United Nations Academy
2026-09-19 10:00 - 15:30 (America/New_York) | OH
Come learn the ins and outs of Model United Nations! Join CCWA for our upcoming Model UN Academy on Saturday, September 19 from 10:00-3:30pm – location to be announced soon. This workshop is designed for middle and high school students, teachers, and school leaders who are new to Model UN and CCWA’s Model United Nations conferences, and experienced participants interested in strengthening their Model UN knowledge.

Throughout the day, attendees will learn and actively take part in impactful and engaging workshops led by Model UN student leaders, advisors, and CCWA staff. Advisors will learn strategies to establish and improve their Model UN program. More details on workshop topics can be found below:

Student Workshop Topics:

Model UN 101 and Navigating Model UN as a New Delegate – Decorum, Relationship Building, and Making Your Mark in Committees

Parliamentary Procedure and Motions

Talk It Like You Walk It: Mastering Public Speaking and Debate

Know-It-All: Strengthening Your Research and Writing Skills

Put It Into Practice: Mock Committee Simulation

Advisor Workshop Topics:

Advocating for and Building Your Model UN Program

Model UN 101: The Ins and Outs of The Model UN Experience

Building and Sustaining Student Curiosity – Expanding MUN Learning to the Classroom and Beyond

Registration is $15/person. Kindly note that registration costs are being partially subsidized through foundation support for all students participating in CCWA’s Model UN program. If the payment is a barrier for participation, please reach out to Lydia Johnson at lyjohnson@ccwa.org.
At this time, registration will be capped at 60 spots. Any changes to program capacity will be communicated as early as possible. Registration will close on Thursday, September 17.

Destination Helsinki - Travel with CCWA
2027-05-30 - 2027-06-06 | OH
Travel with CCWA on an immersive, small group journey to Helsinki, Finland. From the UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna Sea Fortress to the modern Oodi Library, Helsinki is a place where history and the future come together.
This seven-day journey with CCWA is designed for the curious traveler who is interested in more than sightseeing. Explore the city by foot, tram, and bike. Share long dinner tables with fellow travelers and locals. Peek inside the halls of the Finnish Parliament and swap ideas with Finnish thinkers on world affairs and society. And swap your shoes for a sauna towel. Intimate by design, the small group format will promote connection, unique access to Finnish cultural and historic sites, and many memorable moments.
Jenni Carney, CCWA’s Chief Operating Officer and Finnish native, will lead travel with the group. The program is priced at $4,545 per person (single supplement: $225), and includes six nights accommodations, daily breakfast, two group dinners, local transportation, and all tours and entry fees. Airfare is not included.
To learn more or reserve your spot, sign up for more information or contact Andrew Kovach, Director of International Exchanges, at akovach@ccwa.org.
