The Canadian International Council (CIC; French: Conseil international du Canada) is a Canadian nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank dedicated to foreign relations and international affairs. Established in 1928 as the successor to the Canadian Institute of International Affairs, the CIC aims to strengthen Canada’s role on the global stage by fostering dialogue across academic disciplines, policy areas, and economic sectors.

History and Mission

Founded in 1928, the CIC provides a platform for Canadian citizens to engage with and shape Canada’s foreign policy and international relations. Its mission centers on promoting public debate and informed discussion on global issues that affect Canada, facilitating a broader understanding of Canada’s place in the world.

Structure and Activities

Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, the CIC operates through 19 volunteer-run branches located across Canada, including major cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, and others. These branches organize speaker programs, study groups, conferences, and seminars to engage members and the public on international affairs relevant to their communities.

The CIC also supports a pan-Canadian Young Professionals Network and manages the digital media platform OpenCanada.org, which encourages discussion and analysis of international issues among Canadians.

Besides hosting events and programs, the CIC is involved in publishing various materials including the Journal international, Behind the Headlines, and the online magazine Open Canada, providing accessible information and commentary on foreign policy.

Contributions and Partnerships

The CIC is actively engaged in projects of national historical significance, such as an oral history archive on the government of former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien (1993–2003). Led by University of Toronto Professor Robert Bothwell in collaboration with Trinity College archives, this project records interviews with key political figures, opposition leaders, Indigenous chiefs, provincial premiers, journalists, and civil society representatives, addressing a Canadian lag in compiling oral histories vital for researchers and the public.

Funding and Status

As a registered charitable organization (Business Registration Number: 106861610RR0001), the CIC operates as a nonprofit entity. It receives funding through private sponsorships, membership fees, donations, and event revenues.

Leadership

The Council’s leadership includes co-chairs John English and Nicolas Rouleau. It has a membership-based governance structure supporting its independent and nonpartisan stance.

The Canadian International Council continues to play a significant role in enriching Canadian foreign policy discourse by connecting citizens nationwide with global affairs through education, dialogue, and research initiatives.