Mapping Diplomacy: U.S. State Department and Geography

In this lesson, students explore the role of the Office of the Geographer and Global Issues (GGI) within the U.S. State Department, gaining insight into how geography is applied to address global challenges.

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What does geography have to do with diplomacy?

In our globally connected world, geography is the foundation to the physical, political, economic, and cultural landscapes that steer international relations. Every day, geographers at the Department of State help navigate some of the world’s most complex challenges.

In this lesson, students delve into the work of the Office of the Geographer and Global Issues (GGI) within the U.S. Department of State, gaining insight into how geography is applied to address global challenges. Through discussion, students examine how geography informs diplomatic strategies and decision-making. A case study on the South China Sea brings these concepts to life, allowing students to explore real-world applications of geography in international affairs.

The lesson culminates in a activity where students tackle a hypothetical territorial dispute, applying geography skills and diplomatic tools to propose thoughtful, viable solutions. Are you ready to think like a geographer and act like a diplomat?

Materials & Links

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Activity Packet
Teacher’s presentation in Google Slides (This resource is set to “view only.” Please make a copy to modify the resource and use it with your students.)

Standards Alignment

D2.Geo.6-12: Evaluate the influence of environmental and cultural characteristics.
D2.Geo.8-12: Analyze interactions between physical systems and human systems.
VA.WG.1.d: The student will apply history and social science skills to explain how geographic information and geospatial tools are used to make decisions by d. explaining how cartography is used to reflect regional perspectives, points of view, and perceptions of an area and the creation of mental maps.
VA.WG.17.a: The student will apply history and social science skills to analyze strategic geographic features and resources by identifying and describing examples of disputed borders and explaining the reasons for the disputes.