The Los Angeles World Affairs Council is a unique membership based non-profit, non-partisan speakers forum wherein  business and community leader’s who share a mutual interest in world affairs gather to hear from an impressive array of world leaders speaking on issues of public importance. The International Circle is the highest level of membership in the organization.

Over 250 head’s of state, international policy makers and top government officials have addressed the membership of the Council during our 55-year history.

We encourage out members to see for themselves, hear for themselves and think for themselves as we bring the world to Los Angeles.

The participation, energy and financial support of community leaders such as you enable the Council to provide an open, non-partisan forum for authoritative and influential figures in world affairs at a time when the events shaping our world are at the forefront of everyone’s mind.

Details of upcoming public events

Our most recent season's speaker list

Current members of the International Circle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of your events?

Each year the Council hosts between 30 and 40 luncheons/dinners consisting of a three-course meal, an address by the guest speaker and a question-and-answer session with attendees. Additionally, other events are offered exclusively to International Circle members (see panel above).

Who are your speakers?

The Council hosts speakers who are authoritative through position or expertise on matters of current world affairs. These include heads of state and government, ambassadors, ministers, dignitaries, authors, and academic authorities. For a list of upcoming events click here. To read transcripts or view video of recent speaker's remarks click here.

Can I meet the speakers?

International Circle members have exclusive access to VIP receptions held just prior to each of our events (unless restricted by security) where photos of each I.C. member are taken with the featured speaker.

These photos are assembled into a beautiful leather-bound volume and presented to our members are a treasured reminder of the events they participated in each year.

How much are event tickets?

All tickets purchased by International Circle members are at the member rates, including those for their guests. Member ticket rates generally range between $45 and $65, depending on venue and menu.

Other events held exclusively for International Circle members are complimentary, or attractively priced.

Where are events held?

Venues for Council events are most often located within top Westside hotels and private clubs, and occasionally at first-rate downtown locations. The more exclusive Roundtables and Seminars are held at the California Club (downtown) or the Regency Club (Westside), and occasionally at culturally appropriate five-star restaurants for our most intimate events.

Does my membership fund the speakers or their causes?

No. The Council is a non-partisan organization that pays neither honoraria or expenses to its speakers. Our opting to host an event or speaker should not be construed as an endorsement of the speaker's comments. Each Council member decides for him or herself the validity and persuasiveness of each speaker, topic and comments.

As a non-profit organization, your membership is also tax deductible to the extent allowable by law.