As part of the Global Leadership Youth Program, a collaboration between LJCDS and the San Diego Diplomacy Council, this course introduces students to the topic of environmental sustainability and the multilateral actions necessary to maintain it. Students will interact with experts in the field, participate in a diplomacy simulation, and learn about the important role we all have to play in ensuring a healthy planet. These program sessions are meant to teach the importance of cross-cultural engagement, negotiation skills, global collaborations and problem-solving skills on issues that are both local and global. SDDC and LJCDS aim to utilize this opportunity to promote people-to-people diplomacy and peace. Each week will address a critical global issue such as introduction to international affairs, binationalism, environmental diplomacy, global security, and social justice. Through sessions with international speakers, diplomacy simulations, cultural exercises, and other enrichment activities, upper school students (entering grades 9-12) will have the opportunity to hone their leadership skills, gain a greater understanding of careers in international relations, improve their understanding of global issues and global cultures, and learn how to be civically and globally engaged leaders. The goal is that at the conclusion of each week-long session, participants will come away with new skills, connections with students from across San Diego and across the globe, and a Certificate of Excellence in Global Leadership on the topic of the session. This course is not at LJCDS, and transportation is not provided. Students need to travel to UC San Diego Park and Market, 1100 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101. Introduction to International Relations: July 7–11 In this program, you’ll be introduced to the core concepts and theories of international relations, exploring how states, international organizations, and non-state actors interact on the global stage. You’ll examine topics such as international security, economic relations, and the role of diplomacy in addressing global challenges. Through simulations, case studies, and interactive discussions, you’ll gain insights into the dynamics of international conflict, cooperation, and policy-making. You’ll also learn how issues like trade, human rights, and environmental concerns are central to global politics. This program will equip you with the knowledge and analytical skills to engage in meaningful conversations about the forces shaping the international system. Binational and Environmental Diplomacy: July 14-18 In this program, you’ll explore the complexities of binational relations and environmental diplomacy. You’ll examine how international agreements influence cooperation on shared borders and resources, and the vital role diplomacy plays in addressing global environmental challenges. Through hands-on activities like environmental justice workshops, climate diplomacy case studies, and an in-depth look at the Tijuana River Crisis, you’ll discover how environmental issues are interconnected with trade, security, and human rights. You’ll also gain valuable insights into cross-border environmental management, as well as how advocacy groups and government agencies collaborate to develop sustainable solutions. This experience will equip you with the knowledge and skills to participate in impactful discussions on environmental policy and international cooperation. 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Led by San Diego Diplomacy Council & LJCDS