In a complex and polarised world, young people need the skills to think for themselves
We help teachers bring current affairs discussions into the classroom to build critical-thinking, curiosity and confidence.
We’re an independent charity that combines deep educational knowledge with the journalistic expertise of The Economist newspaper.
How we do it
Every week, we provide teachers with the resources they need to lead informed, open-minded and inspiring discussions about the news.
Our lessons encourage children to understand a rapidly-changing world and learn to disagree agreeably with their peers.
Children, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, thrive when schools create spaces for engaged, respectful and timely deliberation.
Explore lessonsCurrent affairs education should be mandatory in schools – read our policy position
98
countries around the world taught Topical Talk in 2025-26
1 million
estimated children participated in Topical Talk in 2025-26.
Our impact
Children who take part in Topical Talk lessons build creativity, problem-solving, open-minded listening and confident speaking – skills proven to support higher wages, wellbeing and civic engagement.
They learn to apply these skills to the real issues that shape their lives and communities, which prepares them to thrive in future work and society.
See our impact“The next generation will need well-honed critical-thinking skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world. I’m proud to work with an organisation that helps children acquire these skills.”
Robert Guest, chair of trustees and deputy editor at The Economist
