Our Work
Stronger Institutions for an Interconnected World
Subnational governments increasingly operate at the intersection of local responsibility and global change. GSDC strengthens the knowledge, people, and relationships they need to navigate that reality effectively.
Core Function
Build Knowledge
We develop and translate research into practical knowledge for governments.
Subnational Diplomacy Review. Our flagship publication examines the state and evolution of subnational diplomacy around the world.
Practical Resources. GSDC is developing practical knowledge in the following areas. Specific resources will be announced as they are released.
- Institutional design and capacity for international engagement
- Partnership evaluation and responsible cooperation
- Translating global learning into local action
- Continuity of institutional knowledge across transitions
- Engagement with multilateral institutions
- Documented practice and lessons from governments
Core Function
Build Capacity
We strengthen the people and institutions responsible for international engagement.
Our work includes professional education, applied learning, technical resources, practitioner exchange, and the development of future public-service leaders.
Emerging Leaders Program. The GSDC Emerging Leaders Program helps prepare the next generation of professionals working at the intersection of subnational government, international affairs, and global policy.
Core Function
Build Trusted Pathways
GSDC creates substantive opportunities for governments to learn directly from one another and engage relevant experts and institutions.
We believe subnational governments should have meaningful opportunities to speak for themselves, contribute their own expertise, and develop direct institutional relationships.
Our approach prioritizes quality over meeting volume.
Fewer meetings. Better conversations. Greater public value.