Competition on critical rare earth minerals has moved to the forefront of the global geopolitical landscape with many policy leaders and industry experts contending that this issue could be the defining feature of the international security and economic system for decades ahead. In April 2026, the World Affairs Council of Austin in collaboration with the […]
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin along with others interested in geopolitics, political risk, and critical rare earth mineral issues to hear from St. Edwards University students as they present conclusions from their semester-long major projects on geopolitical risk. Given the turbulence in today’s world, governments & businesses are increasingly prioritizing assessing geopolitical risks […]
With the U.S. and Iran now in open conflict and the world’s energy supply under threat, the stakes could not be higher – or more uncertain. Join us on WorldNow with Jim Falk as we sit down with Steven Cook, senior Middle East expert at the Council on Foreign Relations; Amb. Deborah Jones, U.S. Ambassador […]
REMs (Rare Earth Minerals) and REEs (Rare Earth Elements) and their role in the global economic system and even national security will be defining issues in the decades ahead. The terms are used interchangeably. But the name is a misnomer, as they are not rare. It is the mining and, most importantly, the processing into a component […]
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin & San Antonio for a program on Future Careers in Foreign Service and Global Logistics! Featured speakers Navy FAO Plans & Requirements Chief, Jonathan Norris, and President of Webber Air Cargo, Michael Webber will share their fascinating journey’s and what it means to navigate highly complex scenarios in […]
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the global balance of power. What does the AI race mean for security, power, and the world economy? Artificial intelligence is reshaping the global balance of power. Nations are racing for advantage, companies are competing for dominance, and the quest for superintelligence is moving faster than ever. Join us on WorldNow […]
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin for a discussion about Canada’s role in a shifting global landscape. This fireside‑chat–style discussion will explore how Canada is navigating a more fragmented and competitive global environment, while deepening—not retreating from—its economic and strategic relationship with the United States and Mexico. The conversation will connect global geopolitics directly […]
The economic and strategic partnership among Canada, Mexico, and the United States is crucial for navigating business developments in energy, geopolitics, mobility, technology, and other areas. The current policy changes, with the passing of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), have certainly shifted the predictability of investments and doing business globally. What does the future of […]
Recent developments in the Middle East have raised important questions about regional stability, international relations, global energy markets, and the broader geopolitical landscape. How might current tensions shape the future of the region and its relationships with major global powers? What could the evolving situation mean for international trade, security, and diplomatic engagement? This panel […]
Please join like-minded “global thinkers” for what will be a very lively discussion with your fellow World Affairs Council members. This month, our open social group discussion will focus on recent developments in the Middle East, and the broader geopolitical landscape. What are your thoughts on how current tensions will shape the future of the […]
On this special edition of WorldNow with Jim Falk, we sit down with Elliot Ackerman, author of 2084: A Novel of the Future of War. What will war look like in 2084 – in a world devastated by climate change? Join us on WorldNow with Jim Falk as we sit down with Elliot Ackerman, author […]
The World Affairs Council of Austin is once again a partner organization for the annual Oita Japan Festival! You won't want to miss the "Doing Business in Japan" seminar. Texas exports over $6 billion in goods and services to Japan. Japan is also a top five export market for central Texas companies. Be sure to […]
The World Affairs Council of Austin, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico, the Austin-Saltillo Sister Cities Association, the City of Austin Econonic Development Department, and Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation host the annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia. This day marks the 216th anniversary of the declaration of independence from Spain by the Mexican […]
Join us on this special evening as we welcome back distinguished speaker, Dr. Sharyl Cross. Dr. Cross will provide details about the competition among China, Russia and the United States in the area of critical rare earths/strategic minerals. This event is by invitation-only. Please notify us of your interest to receive an invitation by providing […]
Members, please check your newsletter for registration details. Non-members may join by visiting our Membership page. June -- 17th at 5:30 pm The Middle East: Where are We Now? // 24th at 6:30 pm Globalist Coffeehouse: Middle East // July -- 15th at 6:00 pm ONLINE WorldNow: The Future of War // 16th TBD International […]