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Lorena Smalley

International Discussion

  • Tuesdays
  • 10:00 to 11:30 A.M.
  • Seba Seniors, Melmoth Lounge
  • First Meeting: September 9, 2025

Last year, our International Discussion Group set out to better understand the world around us. We began with an in-depth look at Democracy—what it means, how it works, and how it can be lost. Along the way, we explored key Alberta legislation, sparking lively conversations and sharing perspectives that broadened our understanding.

Each session brought fresh insights. We took turns researching, exchanged articles and videos, and created a welcoming space for curious minds to learn, reflect, and challenge ideas together. It was engaging, eye-opening, and often inspiring.

This year, we’re excited to keep the conversation going!
We’ve planned a calendar of topics to guide us, starting with an exploration of different government systems around the world. This will give us a strong foundation for diving into specific countries—including Canada—examining their political structures, current events, and global influence.

Whether you’re deeply informed about world affairs or simply curious, you’re invited to join our lively, thoughtful, and open discussions.

Our Weekly Discussion Format

Each week, we’ll explore one key question or topic together. To start things off, we’ll have a short conversation about a current event of the week. This helps us stay informed and brings fresh perspective to our main topic.

We’ll also watch a short video related to the week’s theme to spark further discussion and deepen our understanding.

The agenda for March, April, and May will be shaped by the interests of the group, so everyone has a say in what we explore next.

September – Education of Political Systems

  • Democracy – What is it? How to Lose it?  
  • Fascism  – What is it? How does it occur?  
  • Authoritarian- What is it? How does it occur?  
  • Communism – What is it? How does it occur? – China

 

October – Canadian Politics

  • Democracy – Canadian Politics – Federal, Provincial, Municipal Responsibilities?
  • Canadian Politics – What the Various Parties Stand for
  • Canadian Politics  – What are the Main Issues?
  • Canadian Partnerships with Other Countries?

 

November – Comparison of Democracies – How are they different

  • Canada
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • France

December – European Union

  • Members
  • How Formed
  • Issues
  • Brexit

 

January – Middle East Issues

  • Saudi Arabia  
  • Iran 
  • Israel & Gaza &  Iraq 
  • Syria 

 

February – China – 2nd Largest Economy

  • History
  • Social Structure
  • Education
  • Health
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