The Sixteenth Council Programs

Strategic Foresight. Regional Expertise. Global Impact.

The Sixteenth Council’s work is organized around the world’s critical geopolitical and institutional dynamics. By focusing on region-specific challenges and opportunities, we ensure our analysis remains relevant and grounded in real-world contexts.

We integrate these regional insights with deep thematic expertise to develop actionable policy frameworks. This approach enables us to address complex global issues effectively and support decision-makers in crafting informed strategies.

Regional Programs

1. America Program
Navigating Hegemony and Hemispheric Complexity
This program thoroughly examines the shifting political, economic, and security dynamics across North and South America. It places strong emphasis on the global impact of the U.S.-China rivalry, advances in defense modernization, and the challenges of digital governance. Additionally, it explores energy transition policies and the evolving landscape of trade integration, offering comprehensive insights to navigate the complex interdependencies shaping the Americas today.

• Focus Areas:
  U.S.-China rivalry and hemispheric ripple effects
• Defense and security strategies across the Americas
• Cybersecurity and digital trust infrastructure
• Energy transitions and climate commitments
• Trade frameworks and regional economic partnerships

2. Africa Program
From Aid to Agency: Rethinking Africa’s Global Role

This program explores Africa’s growing influence in global geopolitics, focusing on the continent’s unique leadership challenges and opportunities. It addresses critical security issues, the rapid adoption of technology, and the pursuit of energy sustainability. Central to its work is supporting the effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to boost intra-African trade and economic integration, driving Africa’s development and global presence forward.

Focus Areas:

• Africa’s influence in global power shifts
  Regional conflict, terrorism, and peacebuilding
• Digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystems
• Sustainable resource governance and green energy
• Continental trade integration and economic policy

3. Middle East Program
Conflict, Energy, and Transformation

This program delves into the intricate political and economic landscape of the Middle East, examining enduring power rivalries and shifting alliances. It highlights the region’s critical energy geopolitics, especially the challenges of transitioning beyond oil dependence. Additionally, the program addresses emerging cybersecurity threats, ongoing defense modernization efforts, and the push for economic diversification as Middle Eastern countries seek sustainable growth and regional stability.

Focus Areas:

• Power struggles and regional diplomacy
  Energy transition challenges in oil economies
• Cybersecurity threats and digital resilience
• Military innovation and defense alliances
  Economic reform and diversification strategies

4. Europe Program
Defending Values, Driving Innovation

This program explores Europe’s pursuit of strategic autonomy in an increasingly complex global environment. It focuses on balancing robust security policies with rapid technological advancements, while also addressing ambitious climate commitments. Additionally, it examines evolving governance models that shape Europe’s role on the world stage, fostering innovation and resilience amid geopolitical uncertainties and shifting alliances.

Focus Areas:

• EU defense and strategic independence
• Technology’s impact on industry and society
• Cybersecurity and regulatory innovation
• Climate and energy transition policies
• Multilateralism and governance reform

5. Asia Program
Innovation, Rivalry, and Economic Dynamism

This program closely monitors Asia’s dynamic and rapid transformation, emphasizing China’s expanding geopolitical and economic ambitions. It addresses critical security issues in the Indo-Pacific region, explores the impact of emerging technologies like AI and digital innovation, and assesses the challenges posed by energy transitions. Additionally, it evaluates regional trade frameworks and supply chain resilience to understand Asia’s growing influence on the global stage.

Focus Areas:

• China’s geopolitical and economic strategies
• Indo-Pacific security tensions
• Artificial intelligence and digital governance
• Energy transition impacts on growth
• Trade alliances and supply chain security

Flagship Initiatives

Centre for Corruption Research and Reporting (CCRR) –  Exposing Systems. Restoring Accountability.

Corruption is a structural problem with catastrophic social and economic consequences. CCRR uncovers how corruption operates through rigorous research, impactful reporting, and targeted policy interventions—empowering institutions and citizens alike.

Core Activities:

• Data-driven investigations into corruption networks
• Publication of accessible, actionable reports
• Designing governance reforms for transparency
• Training journalists, civil society, and investigators
• Engaging communities in accountability efforts

CORVUS: Centre for Corporate Values and Justice
Embedding Ethics at the Heart of Power

CORVUS tackles the moral crisis within corporations and institutions, redefining justice, equity, and leadership values in organizational culture. It champions ethical governance as the foundation of sustainable influence.

Key Missions:

• Developing ethical leadership frameworks
• Addressing systemic workplace injustices
• Reforming boardroom and HR practices
• Researching corporate accountability and equity
• Building capacity for institutional transformation

Global Policy Intelligence Unit (GPIU) – Strategic Insight from Legislative Movements

GPIU is the intelligence nerve center of The Sixteenth Council. It systematically tracks global policy, legislative, and regulatory shifts across regions—translating complex legal landscapes into actionable strategic intelligence.

Functions:

• Monitoring key bills, laws, and regulations worldwide
• Analyzing policy trends aligned with regional programs
• Providing timely intelligence for policymakers and stakeholders
• Forecasting regulatory impacts on business and security
• Supporting evidence-based policy advocacy

Global Affairs Leadership Academy
– Building Tomorrow’s Global Leaders

Our Academy offers immersive, multidisciplinary learning designed for policymakers, entrepreneurs, academics, and business leaders. It develops strategic acumen in geopolitics, economics, and leadership to navigate and influence the complexities of today’s global environment.

Offerings:

• Executive courses on global power dynamics
• Workshops on international business and diplomacy
• Training on strategic decision-making and leadership
• Forums for cross-sectoral knowledge exchange
• Customized programs for regional and sectoral needs

To join any of our programs please email your interest indicating the particular interest to research@16thcouncil.uk