L.A.-based consuls general discuss local approaches to global challenges at UCLA event
One way to measure Los Angeles’ standing among global cities is the fact that it is home to the third largest consular corps in the world.
Consuls general representing five nations came together at UCLA on Nov. 10 for a program that enlightened audience members about the diplomats’ roles in local responses to global challenges. The event, held at the UCLA Faculty Club, was part of UCLA International Education Week, and it was cosponsored by the Los Angeles Consular Corps.
“Today’s event is an opportunity to gain insights from a diverse array of leaders about the challenges affecting our global community,” said UCLA Chancellor Gene Block. “Bringing together such partners to unravel problems and develop solutions is one of the roles of a globally oriented public research university like UCLA.”
Block laid the groundwork for a panel discussion by describing several major global challenges with compelling local dimensions — issues UCLA scholars are also working to address — including economic concerns, global health care challenges, the spread of misinformation, mental health, climate change, technological competition and education for a knowledge-based economy.