August 30th will mark the 3-year anniversary of the final day of the controversial US withdrawal from Afghanistan, an event that marked the end of a nearly twenty-year conflict. The rapid collapse of the Afghan government in the absence of American support and the resulting takeover by the Taliban led to a massive humanitarian crisis and called into question the utility of decades of American occupation. The collapse led to a surge in refugees, a rollback of women’s rights, and a strengthened position for Islamic extremist groups. The region remains unstable, and many American concerns, whether security, economic, or humanitarian in nature, remain in flux. Can the United States negotiate with a group it has viewed as an illegitimate terrorist organization to accomplish these priorities? In what ways can this be most effective? Does engagement with the Taliban set an unwanted precedent for other non-state groups vying for international recognition?

Join us for a conversation with Carter Malkasian, Chair of the Defense Analysis Department at the Naval Postgraduate School, and Masuda Sultan, an Afghan American women’s rights activist and the CEO of Symbio Investment.

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The International Olympics Committee (IOC) has consistently positioned itself as against the politicization of sport. In The Olympic Charter, the IOC declares that it has a mission “to oppose any political or commercial abuse of sport and athletes.” However, this has consistently not been the case. Countries like China have used hosting the games to showcase state power. Winning in the Olympics is a way to increase international prestige. Individual athletes have used the games as a platform for protests. There have been diplomatic boycotts of adversarial countries. So, how do international politics play into sporting events like the Olympics? How can sports be a tool for cultural relations? How do the 2024 Olympic games reflect current geopolitical trends? Join us for a conversation with Dr. Sarah Hillyer, Founder & Director of the Center for Sport, Peace & Society at the University of Tennessee, and Dr. Susan Brownell, Curators’ Distinguished Professor of Anthropology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

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The 2024 Presidential Election in Russia, scheduled from March 15 to 17, 2024, comes amid heightened tensions following the tragic death of Alexei Navalny, Putin’s former opposition leader. Navalny’s death has underscored the serious threat to political opposition and civil liberties in Russia. With most opposition figures either in jail or in exile abroad, President Vladimir Putin, now 71 years old, has secured another term, extending his rule until at least 2030. The election further consolidates Putin’s domestic and international policies, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, but hat will the next Putin term look like, and how might it shape Russia’s domestic policies? What can the United States and the international community expect from a further emboldened Russian leader?

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The recent events around Pakistan's general elections have highlighted significant challenges to the country's democracy. The legal issues and opposition faced by former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party point to a worrying trend of diminishing democracy at a time of economic crisis. 

Amidst this tension, Pakistan's democratic institutions face a critical test. But what does this mean for the country's future? What role does the military's influence play in Pakistan's political landscape, and how does that affect the democratic process?

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As the global geopolitical landscape evolves, the United States finds itself at a crossroads, facing the reality of either supporting or negotiating multiple and simultaneous conflicts. Today, ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza and actions by countries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are destabilizing the post-WWII world order and Washington’s strategic preparedness. President Biden’s assertion that the United States can simultaneously support the current conflicts raises essential questions about the United States’ capacity to engage in additional crises, particularly with potential flashpoints involving China in Taiwan or the South China Sea.

Join us for a comprehensive discussion on America’s strategic readiness. Our panel includes Dr. Raphael “Rafi” Cohen, Director of the Strategy and Doctrine Program of RAND Project AIR FORCE, Dr. Jennifer Kavanagh, Senior Fellow in the American Statecraft Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Political Scientists at the RAND Corporation; and Professor Simon Reich, Professor of the Division of Global Affairs, Political Science at the Rutgers School of Arts & Sciences – Newark.

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As the conflict enters its third year, Ukraine faces a daunting task of rebuilding its infrastructure, economy, and society, all while fighting a costly war. The need for international support is clear, but with the US presidential election looming, uncertainty clouds the future of aid. Can private sector involvement fill the gap? And what impact will Ukraine's reconstruction play in the larger picture of defending democracy? Join us in a discussion with Michael Newson, Senior Program Coordinator for Migration and Sustainable Development at the International Organization for Migration in Kyiv; Tetyana Korotka, Deputy Business Ombudsman of the Business Ombudsman Council; and Eric Hontz, Director of the Center for International Private Enterprise’s Center for Accountable Investment.

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The Arctic has become an increasingly active geopolitical battleground for the United States, Russia, and China. Thawing ice caused by climate change opens the possibility of the region becoming a global shipping lane, potentially transforming international trade. China, although not an Arctic nation, has stepped up efforts to expand its presence in the area, creating new opportunities to enforce its interests abroad. The Arctic Council, previously a positive and active body for the region, has not met since Russia’s second invasion of Ukraine, reducing international dialogue over the region. Meanwhile, the United States is in the process of increasing its local military deterrent. What are the interests of China, Russia, and the US in the area and how is each working to achieve them? How will climate change affect how nations act towards the Arctic? What will NATO expansion mean for the security of the region?

Join us  for a discussion with Evan Bloom, Senior Fellow at the Polar Institute at the Wilson Center, Dr. Marc Lanteigne, Associate Professor of Political Science at the Arctic University of Norway, and Pavel Devyatkin, Senior Associate at the Arctic Institute.

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A political upheaval has left Pakistan reeling, with the party of Imran Khan, who is in jail, making unexpected gains and challenging long-standing party dominance. And all of this amidst economic collapse, international debt, inflation, and the aftermath of devastating floods. Today on Global Insights, we’re revisiting a crucial conversation from last year with Mr. Shuja Nawaz, the first director of the South Asia Center at the Atlantic Council, diving deep into Pakistan’s ongoing triple crisis. As Pakistan faces economic turmoil, political paralysis, and escalating security threats, how will these challenges shape its democratic future?

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This second part of our Migration Mini-Series. Since spring 2022, more than 130,000 migrants have arrived in New York City, a city that is known for welcoming and integrating generations of immigrants. Yet, the strain on local government resources and shelters had led Mayor Eric Adams to call the situation a humanitarian crisis and even declare a state of emergency, claiming that the federal and state governments are not doing enough to help the city with this challenge. With the mayor stating that the city has reached capacity and meeting with leaders of other countries to discourage further migration to New York City, what does this current migration influx mean for “The City of Dreams”? How can New York, and the United States, remain a beacon of hope for those looking for opportunity in a new country while remaining fiscally prudent?  Join us for a conversation with Ms. Camille Joseph Varlack, Chief of Staff to Mayor Eric Adams of New York City; Mr. Muzaffar Chishti, Senior Fellow at Migration Policy Institute (MPI) and Director of MPI’s office at New York University School of Law; and Professor Nancy Foner, Distinguished Professor of Sociology at Hunter College and the Graduate Center, City University of New York.

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In recent years, China’s tech and innovation sector has emerged as a disruptive force on the world stage, growing to rival, and in some areas, surpass that of traditional technology leaders like the United States. Companies like Alibaba, Tencent, and Huawei have achieved global recognition, not only for their size but also for their innovations in e-commerce, digital payments, 5G technology, and artificial intelligence. Alongside China’s expansive Belt and Road Initiative, how will their tech and innovation travel across the globe? Is China on track to surpass the U.S. in technology, and what does this mean for the world? What do we often get wrong about China’s tech industry, and how do those misconceptions shape global relations? What is the best way for the U.S. to react to China’s tech surge while fostering global cooperation?

Join us today for a discussion that explores the rise of China’s tech and innovation sector and the potential repercussions for the U.S.-China relationship. Our speakers for this discussion are Robert D. Atkinson, founder and president of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), Dr. Tai Ming Cheung, director of the University of California Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation, and Rebecca Fannin, founder of Silicon Dragon Ventures.

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This episode is part one of two of our conversation on U.S. migration. Over the past few decades, migration from Central America’s Northern Triangle has more than tripled. Millions in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras are in the process of uprooting their lives to take on the dangerous journey to the U.S. in the hope of a better life. Despite President Biden’s early commitment, submitting a $4 billion plan on his first day in office to tackle the root causes of migration, the approval of this plan still hangs in the balance two years later. What factors drive this growing migration? What are the global ramifications of the crisis, and what solutions might address its deep-seated origins? How have both Washington and local governments navigated the complex landscape to alleviate the crisis?

Our distinguished speakers for this discussion include Diego de Sola, President and CEO of De Sola Group and Co-founder of Glasswing International; Adam Isacson, Director for Defense Oversight program at WOLA; and Dr. Elizabeth Oglesby, Associate Professor in the School of Geography and Development, and Latin American Studies at the University of Arizona. This is the first event in a two-part series looking at the dynamics of migration from Latin America to the United States. The second will look at the migration crisis from the perspective of New York City.

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In this highly anticipated electoral battle, Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) faces formidable opponents from the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT). China’s Taiwan Affairs Office has framed these elections as a critical choice between “peace and war, prosperity and decline.” The failure of a proposed alliance, aimed at forming a pro-China government, has further heightened tensions. The established Kuomintang and the emerging Taiwan People’s Party were unable to agree on a joint leadership, leading to a dramatic implosion of the alliance plan on live television. Against the backdrop of escalating military activities in the Taiwan Strait, the implications of this election extend beyond Taiwan’s borders, impacting global geopolitics. How might developments in Taiwan-China-U.S. relations impact the broader geopolitical landscape, including relationships with other nations in the Asia-Pacific region?

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In December 2022, the U.S. – Africa Leaders Summit launched the Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) initiative, catalyzing over $350 million in investment and $450 million in finance mobilization. The DTA is expected to expand digital access and literacy and strengthen digital enabling environments across Africa. Many experts also see this as an opportunity for the U.S. to balance with China regarding technology investment in the continent. What has been accomplished since the DTA launched? What perspectives do African countries have on this initiative? How is and can the private sector effectively engage with DTA? How does the DTA fit into geopolitical competition on the continent?
Join us for a conversation with Dr. Jane Munga, Fellow in the Africa Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; Mr. Rob Floyd, Director for Innovation and Digital Policy at the African Center for Economic Transformation, and Ms. Pren-Tsilya Boa-Guehe, Google’s Head for Pan-African Institutions, Government Affairs & Public Policy.

The rise of autocracy and illiberalism has concerned many observers, even those covering the mainstream political discourse of the world’s largest democracies. Thirty years after Francis Fukuyama wrote about the triumph of liberal democracy, it is clear that illiberalism remains a pressing concern in the twenty-first century; what’s less clear is how we should interpret this illiberal wave sweeping across the world. Join us for a discussion about what history can tell us about the relationship between democracy and illiberal regimes with Dr. Sheri Berman, Professor of Political Science at Barnard College, Columbia University.

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has started revolutionizing every facet of our lives, including warfare. AI-driven robots and drones, equipped with machine-learning algorithms, navigate complex terrains, conduct surveillance, and execute missions with unparalleled precision. This ability to process vast amounts of data in real-time and make split-second decisions provides a critical advantage in the fast-paced environment of modern warfare, revolutionizing the scope of military engagements and offering new possibilities for tactical offensives and national security defense. As a result, AI-driven military spending is projected to reach $38.8 billion by 2028. However, integrating AI into warfare also raises important ethical and legal questions. How is the global geopolitical landscape being reshaped by nations investing heavily in AI-driven military technologies? How reliable and trustworthy are AI-driven decisions in high-stakes military scenarios? How might AI change the nature of future military engagements and warfare tactics?

Today, we're joined by  Dr. Heather Roff, Senior Research Scientist at the Center for Naval Analysis, Dr. Herbert Lin, Senior Research Scholar at the Center for International Security and Cooperation and Wendell Wallach, Co-director of the AI and Equality Initiative at the Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs.

On September 10, 2023, the United States elevated its partnership with Vietnam to the status of a Comprehensive Strategic Partner, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. Today we delve into the significance of this development, exploring the opportunities, challenges, and potential for cooperation between these two nations. How did these two former enemies transform into two cooperative and friendly partners? What are the broader implications of this development on U.S.-China Relations? What does Vietnam expect to gain from this upgraded relationship, and what does Washington hope to gain? Ambassador Ted Osius, will share personal anecdotes from his book, “Nothing Is Impossible: America’s Reconciliation with Vietnam.”

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Thirty years ago South Africa–the most rigidly implemented segregationist regime modern history has ever known–became a democracy, with high hopes and heady expectations. These days, it’s more likely to enter the news for drought, crime, corruption, or infrastructural decay. But what has really happened since South Africa’s democratic transition? Is it fair to say the post-apartheid country has let down its people’s hopes–or is the question itself the wrong one to be asking? And what does post-apartheid South Africa have to say to the rest of the world about how we ought to assess democratic development in an atmosphere of pervasive disillusionment about democracy and a sense that democratic backslide, globally, is almost inevitable?

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In Europe, a political transformation is unfolding, marked by the resurgence of right-wing movements in countries like Slovakia, Spain, Poland, and Italy. This shift has thrust the future of pressing issues—immigration, LGBTQ rights, the Ukrainian conflict, and more—into question. Revisiting a prior conversation with Professor Sheri Berman from Columbia University and Susi Dennison, Senior Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, we delve into the driving forces behind these movements. What lies at the core of their victories, and what ramifications might they hold for the continent's political future?

"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade

With the UN Security Council failing to issue a unified response to the Israel-Hamas war, questions about the efficacy of the UN and its structures are again at the fore. Furthermore, competing multilateral blocs like NATO, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the now-expanded BRICS alliance are asserting their significance, influencing global decision-making and reshaping multilateral engagements. Against this backdrop of shifting dynamics of global multilateralism, what challenges and opportunities arise for the UN? How can it be effective in addressing daunting global challenges like climate change and pandemics, as well as regional conflicts? Is an expanded Security Council, as President Biden suggested, as answer? With power centers shifting, how can we reimagine the future of diplomacy, cooperation, and, most importantly, multilateralism? Join us for a conversation Dr. Stewart Patrick, Senior fellow and Director of the Global Order and Institutions Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Professor Waheguru Pal S Sidhu, Clinical Professor and Director of the United Nations (UN) Specialization at the Center for Global Affairs, School of Professional Studies, New York University.

The term ‘de-risking’ has emerged as a central theme in discussions of the U.S.-China relationship, commanding attention from scholars, economists, and policymakers who are exploring strategies to diversify U.S. economic ties away from China. Since its introduction in March 2023, both the Biden administration and the G-7 have incorporated ‘de-risking’ into their discourse to describe their trade and investment policies concerning China. The widespread adoption of this concept prompts important questions about Washington’s implementation of ‘de-risking’ and its potential implications for U.S.-China business relations and the broader economy. As the United States. pursues ‘de-risking,” how might this strategy affect trade and investment between the United States and China? What steps could China take to respond to U.S. ‘de-risking’ efforts, and how might this impact the global economic landscape?

Join us in a discussion that explores ‘de-risking’ from the U.S. perspective and its potential repercussions on the global economy. Our speakers for this ‘De-risking’ discussion are Diana Choyleva, Chief Economist at the China-focused macroeconomic, political, and geopolitical forecasting company, Enodo Economics, and Dr. Elvire Fabry, Senior Research Fellow at the Jacques Delors Institute.

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For decades, the U.S. dollar has reigned supreme as a dominant force in global markets, earning it the moniker of a “global currency.” This dominance has bestowed significant economic, political, and social advantages upon the United States. However, critics contend that the dollar’s supremacy might come at a price, potentially leading to issues like increased unemployment and debt. It has also ignited conversations about the merits of transitioning to a multipolar currency system that could benefit not just the U.S., but the entire world. Since August, the BRICS nations have been considering reducing their dependence on the U.S. dollar in international trade, as exemplified by China’s recent endeavors to enhance the status of the renminbi (RMB). As the U.S. dollar’s role in global markets diminishes, how should the U.S. prepare for this new reality? Should the U.S. government take steps to maintain the dollar’s status as the global reserve currency? How are recent efforts by China to elevate the status of the renminbi (RMB) affecting the global currency landscape?

"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
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Vital to both the economy and national security, critical minerals are the lifeblood of the modern world. These essential resources power industries that drive innovation, but their supply chains is vulnerable to disruption. As nations increase their reliance on electrical energy and transition to low-carbon power sources, the demand for these minerals, including aluminum, cobalt, lithium, manganese, and nickel, has surged dramatically. This surge is projected to increase by more than 450 percent by 2050, aligning with the ambitious goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. Beyond meeting their domestic clean energy needs, countries are engaged in a complex dance of geopolitics and geoeconomics, as these minerals become potential tools of influence on the global stage. What is the current landscape of the critical minerals supply chains? Which geopolitical changes will affect the global supply chain of these minerals? What strategies are nations employing to secure their access to these pivotal resources? Can the vulnerabilities exposed by the Covid-19 pandemic serve as a catalyst for redefining global mineral supply chains? Join us  for a discussion with Dr. Morgan Bazilian, Director of the Payne Institute and a professor of public policy at the Colorado School of Mines; and The Hon. Sharon E. Burke, the Founder and President of Ecospherics, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Operational Energy.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has highlighted the importance of Poland as a strategic ally for the United States and NATO. While Warsaw has been a steadfast partner for Western support of Ukraine, including serving as a logistical hub for the war effort as well as a haven for Ukrainian refugees, its domestic policies are seen as becoming less democratic. Since 2015, Poland’s conservative governing Law and Justice Party (PIS), along with its coalition partners, has eroded or challenged fundamental tenets of civil society, including attacks on judicial independence, freedom of the press, access to abortion, and rights of women, migrants, and the LGBTQ+ community. Strains between Warsaw and the European Union continue to grow, most recently over electoral policy reforms which appear to target the leader of the pro-democracy opposition. Recent parliamentary elections in Poland may determine whether the nation remains a democracy or follows the illiberal path of countries like Hungary and Turkey. How will the election results impact Poland’s role in NATO and the EU? And how will the United States – a historically strong ally – react?


"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
Night on the Docks - Trumpet, Kevin MacLeod
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The ISIS attacks on the Crocus City Hall theater in Russia this past March brought Islamic jihadism back to the headlines. Following the decimation of the ISIS caliphate in Syria and Iraq, ISIS affiliates around the world have continued acts of terrorism through asymmetric warfare. One such group – the Islamic State Khorasan Province or ISIS-K – claimed responsibility for the attack in Moscow and ISIS affiliates are surging in the Sahel. What is the status of global terrorism? How has ISIS transformed since 2019? Where does ISIS-K fit in? What are its objectives and how is it pursuing them? What is the U.S. doing to counter the threats from global terrorism and how successful have its policies been?

Today we're joined by Michael Collins, Executive Director Americas of the Institute for Economics & Peace; Dr. Kim Cragin, Director of the national Defense University’s Center for Strategic Research and Distinguished Research Fellow for Special Operations and Counterterrorism; and Dr. Asfandyar Mir, Senior Expert in South Asia program at the United States Institute for Peace.

Two years ago, the world watched in horror as violence erupted once again in Israel and Gaza, leaving entire communities in ruins. We recorded a critical discussion then, seeking answers to the questions of "Why and What’s Next"

But here we are, in 2023, a mirror of the past, with new casualties, new crises, and renewed tensions. Today’s suffering reflects a tragic cycle, so we're revisiting our conversation with Michael Koplow, Policy Director of the Israel Policy Forum, and answering some urgent questions with lessons from the past. What role does the United States play in this ongoing conflict, how do these recurrent clashes impact the lives and futures of ordinary Palestinians and Israelis, and can lasting peace ever be achieved?

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade

In light of the recent surprise assault launched by Hamas in Israel, Network 20/20 is revisiting a crucial discussion on the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict and its humanitarian impact. This episode was recorded in June of 2021, but we believe it's more relevant than ever . On May 10, 2021, escalating violence in Jerusalem led to a deadly exchange of rockets resulting in over 250 Palestinian deaths, thousands wounded, and a devastating humanitarian crisis leaving more than 72,000 displaced by the fighting. Today, senior fellow at the Middle East Institute’s Khaled Elgindy sheds light on the Israel-Palestine conflict's far-reaching humanitarian impact. What is the range of humanitarian concerns among different groups of Palestinians? Are their political options representative of the people? And what does the future look like for Palestinians in such unresolved circumstances?

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Democracy promotion has long been a key component of U.S. foreign policy, but this objective has become increasingly more complex in recent years. On the one hand, democracy promotion is now a more pressing goal than ever before, as democracies around the world face a multitude of domestic and international threats. On the other hand, many have argued that the United States is no longer in a position to promote its values abroad based on the decline of its own democratic institutions. Should the U.S. make democracy promotion a foreign policy priority in the coming years? And how should it go about protecting its stake in democracy at home and abroad? Today we are joined by Danielle Pletka, Senior Fellow in Foreign and Defense Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute, and Stephen Walt, Robert and Renée Belfer Professor of International Affairs at the Harvard Kennedy School.

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Over the past two decades, major powers including Russia, China, and the U.S. have significantly increased their engagement with countries on the African continent. These activities—including trade, investment, infrastructure development, and military cooperation— can influence regional conflicts, resource allocation, and international alliances. With China’s growing global influence and Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, how do African countries perceive the influence of these powers? And how do governments and people across the continent perceive the United States’ more recent attention? What is the U.S. perspective on both China and Russia’s engagement in Africa, and what strategies does it aim to counterbalance initiatives in the region? Join us for a discussion with Catrina Doxsee, Associate Director of the Transnational Threats Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies; Dr. Joseph Sany, the Vice President of the Africa Center at the United States Institute of Peace; and Ambassador David Shinn, Professorial Lecturer at the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University and the co-author of China and Africa: A Century of Engagement.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade

How does J. Robert Oppenheimer's journey from the Manhattan Project to his post-war advocacy for nuclear disarmament connect to today's discussions on nuclear proliferation in North Korea? Join us for a discussion with Dr. Siegfried S. Hecker, Former Director of the Los Alamos National Laboratory, Professor Emeritus of Stanford University, and the author of “Hinge Points: An Inside Look at North Korea’s Nuclear Program”  where he explains North Korea’s secretive nuclear weapons program, discuss the decisions and choices that have led to the current nuclear standoff in the Korean Peninsula, and share his experiences and analysis of his discussions with technical and political officials and visits to key nuclear sites in North Korea over several U.S. administrations.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
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Following WWII, the United States created a world order that catapulted it to preeminent global power status at the end of the Cold War. Yet, events of the past few years have signaled that U.S. relative power is declining. From the rise of a multipolar world to domestic divisions at home, the future of the U.S. is uncertain. By what measures should we be assessing global power and how does the U.S. fare? And what should be the main priorities for the U.S. in this changing international scene?

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade

Truth is often a moving target, and the battle between misinformation, partial truths, and outright lies challenges democracies to decide between preserving freedom of speech and safeguarding the integrity of information. How are new technologies fueling the spread of misinformation worldwide, and how can democracies tackle the rising tide of online violence and propaganda?

"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
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There are now 72 countries with space programs and dozens of major players in the private sector. A new space race is looming, and as we transition from the age of discovery to that of security and commerce, what actions must the United States and its allies and partners take to safeguard the future of this global commons? What legal frameworks, investments, and new partnerships must be made or changed to enhance a rules-based international order in outer space? Join us to explore these questions with Dr. Jessica West, Senior Researcher at the Canadian peace research institute Project Ploughshares; Dr. Scott Pace, Director of the Space Policy Institute and Professor of the Practice of International Affairs at the George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs; and Therese Jones, Senior Director of Policy at the Satellite Industry Association.

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Cluster munitions, known for their strategic impact and contentious humanitarian implications, have taken center stage as the United States provides them to Ukraine. What strategic considerations led Ukraine to seek cluster munitions? How does the Biden administration balance military advantages with potential humanitarian risks? And why has there been limited international response to this controversial decision? Join me as I speak with Brigadier General (Ret.) Peter Zwack.

Following the Cold War, the U.S. enjoyed a period of unrivaled global dominance and influence. However, with China’s rise, a disruptive Russia, and hedging Middle Powers, it is widely agreed that the current liberal international order led by the United States is under strain. Given that the United States’ relative influence is not at the same level as it was during that of the post-Cold War “unipolar moment,” there is a need for a unifying construct in American foreign policy to meet the challenges of strategic competition. What are the implications of the strategic competition between the U.S., China, and Russia to its foreign policy? How does the U.S. utilize its unique position as a great power to shape the emerging international order and combat these strategic rivals?

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This Friday, Iranians head back to the polls for a runoff election, following a historic low turnout in the June 28 presidential contest. The sudden passing of President Ebrahim Raisi has led to a pivotal showdown between an archconservative and a pro-reform candidate. With economic struggles, heavy sanctions, and regional tensions, what's at stake in this snap election? How will the outcome shape Iran's future and impact regional stability? And what are the Iranian people really looking for in their next president?

Last Thursday, North Korea held a military parade to mark "Victory Day," the anniversary of the ceasefire that ended fighting on the Korean Peninsula. Today, we thought it would be a good time to take a look back at an older episode on North Korea: An Analysis of Fact and Fiction, where we take a deep dive into the realities of the country as we know them and the reasons behind their decision making, specifically, with their pandemic response.

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Decades after the bloody fall of Yugoslavia, tensions continue to simmer in the Western Balkans region. As Serbia continues its candidacy for accession to the EU, pressure is rising to resolve the question of Kosovo, with the dispute over Kosovo’s territory seeing cyclical flare-ups in tension. Meanwhile, Russia seeks to maintain its influence over the region as more Western Balkan states move towards EU and NATO accession. Is a resolution to these complex, decades-old tensions near? Join us for a discussion with Petrit Selimi, former foreign minister of Kosovo, and Ivan Vejvoda, Permanent Fellow at the Institute for Human Sciences, on the geopolitics of the Western Balkans region.

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Join us in a discussion first held on April 19, 2022 between Jamie Shea, Visiting Professor of Strategy and Security of the Strategy and Security Institute, University of Exeter, United Kingdom and member of the Group of Strategic Advisors of the NATO Special Operations Forces Command at SHAPE in Belgium, Rachel Rizzo, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center, and Rajan Menon, Anne and Bernard Spitzer Chair in Political Science at the City College of New York/City University of New York and a Senior Research Scholar at the Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies at Columbia University and a Global Ethics Fellow at the Carnegie Council for Ethics and International Affairs, exploring the purpose of NATO amidst the invasion of Ukraine and beyond.

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Under the rule of President Xi Jinping, China has become a 21st century power, and a formidable competitor to the United States. Having consolidated greater power in his person than any other leader since Mao and abetted by a loyal cadre that make up China’s top leadership, Xi’s global ambitions for China has led him to abandon decades of Chinese restraint in favor of a muscular approach designed to restore China’s historical status as a leading power. Join us for the fifth episode in our Deep Dives: China 2023 program with Professor Susan Shirk, Research Professor and Chair of the 21st Century China Center at the School of Global Policy and Strategy, UC San Diego, and the author of Overreach: How China Derailed Its Peaceful Rise, where she will discuss the connection between Chinese domestic politics and foreign policy and how China’s leadership and political system shape them, the implications of China’s “Global Security Initiative,” and what China’s global strategy under Xi will be.

Overreach: How China Derailed Its Peaceful Rise

WINNER OF THE 2023 LIONEL GELBER PRIZE for the best English-language book on international affairs.

From one of the world’s most respected experts on Chinese politics, OVERREACH is a devastatingly lucid portrait of how China went from fragile superpower to global heavyweight.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
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Floating Cities, Kevin MacLeod, CC BY 3.0

Under the Trump Administration, the State Department took a public hammering: funding cuts of up to a third were proposed, diversity in top positions has been practically nonexistent, more than a third of top-tier positions went vacant or were filled by acting officials, and seven percent of the Department’s staff left in one year. Yet, the issues the State Department faces have roots that predate the Trump Administration. What should be the mission and mandate of U.S. diplomacy for the coming decades? And how can reforms help the State Department achieve that vision? In this discussion recorded on January 6, 2021, we were joined by Ambassador Marcie Ries, Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center’s Future of Diplomacy Project at Harvard Kennedy School; Elizabeth Shackelford, Former U.S. Diplomat and Non-resident fellow at the Quincy Institute; and Chris Richardson, Former U.S. Diplomat. Immigration attorney, and Co-Founder of Argo Visa.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
Title: Night on the Docks - Trumpet
Music: Kevin MacLeod

The United States was once hailed as a pinnacle example for democracy, but its credibility has slowly eroded since the turn of the century. Since the Trump presidency, that credibility has declined exponentially due to blatant attacks on democracy, financial crises, and increasingly growing political polarization among its citizens. How have domestic issues affected its global credibility, partnerships, and the way budding democracies perceive this deeply divided country and its issues? To further explore how other countries view the U.S. and its domestic challenges, join us with Dr. Célia Belin, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations and head of its Paris office since January 2023; Aude Darnal, Research Associate in the Stimson Center’s Reimagining U.S. Grand Strategy Program; and Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian and commentator on fascism, authoritarian leaders, and propaganda.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
Title: Lightless Dawn
Music: Kevin MacLeod
License: CC BY 3.0 (http://goo.gl/BlcHZR)
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This year, India overtook its neighbor and rival China in population, while protests raged in France after the national retirement age was delayed due to the country’s aging population. While the population of much of the developed world continues to grow older, countries in the developing world are growing faster and getting younger. Just months after the world population finally hit the 8 billion milestone, how are these major demographic shifts shaping up to influence the future of geopolitics? Join us for a discussion with political demographer Dr. Jennifer Sciubba, a fellow at the Wilson Center and author of the 2022 book 8 Billion and Counting: How Sex, Death, and Migration Shape Our World to discuss current demographic trends and their geopolitical impact.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
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An armed conflict has erupted between rival factions of the military government in Sudan, resulting in widespread violence and chaos across Sudan, with the majority of fighting happening in cities of over 100,000 people. The fighting comes just months after the civilian political forces and the military signed an agreement to transfer power to a civilian government. As the conflict grows, what is at stake for the Horn of Africa? How are international actors impacting the conflict? And how does the legacy of atrocities in Darfur and the role of the International Criminal Court figure in today’s violence? Join us for a conversation with Mr. Sami Hamdi, an expert on the MENA region and the Managing Director of the International Interest, a global risk and intelligence company, where he will discuss the complexities of this power struggles, Sudan’s struggle for democracy, and the impact of this conflict on the MENA region and beyond.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade

Water instability is a global challenge that will have far-reaching implications in the coming years. It is inextricably linked to conflict and competition between international and national governments as well as non-state actors in the private sector. On the other hand, it is also the source of new forms of innovation and cooperation. How will issues of rising population, political instability, violent conflict, migration, displacement, trade, and production exacerbate the stress on clean water? What is the outlook for the conflict? What mechanisms exist to mitigate confrontation or facilitate cooperation within the international community? And what policies should countries, particularly the U.S., consider implementing in the wake of water scarcity? Joining us to discuss these questions and more is Dr. Aaron Salzberg, Director of the Water Institute and the Don and Jennifer Holzworth Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Dr. Scott Moore, Director of China Programs and Strategic Initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
Song: Evan King - From Other Suns
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Last year, Chinese leader Xi Jinping gave his opening remarks for the 20th Party Congress, where he is poised to secure a norm-breaking third term. In his speech, President Xi called national security the “foundation of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” and urged enhancing security across all aspects of China’s power, including economic and defense. Outside the Great Hall of the People, he is, however, facing criticisms over his Zero Covid policies and their impact on the second-largest economy. How should we interpret the results of the 20th Party Congress? What are some political, economic, and military opportunities and constraints that will shape Xi Jinping’s future leadership? Join us for a discussion where we will discuss these questions and more with Dr. Yukon Huang, Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Former World Bank’s Country Director for China; Dr. Ling Li, Visiting Professor at the University of Vienna; and Dr. Joel Wuthnow, Senior Research fellow in the Center for the Study of Chinese Military Affairs at the National Defense University.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
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Australia sits in the South Pacific as a far East bastion of the West. As a strategic actor in this region, and since gaining independence, its relationship with the United States as a military ally and arms provider has placed it in a powerful position in the region. In the era of competition in the South China Sea and gradually increasing tensions over Taiwan, Australia has emerged as a powerful player with significant stakes in the game. Recently, Australia’s military and economic relationship with the United States has taken considerable steps, with implications from Canberra to Beijing to Washington and beyond. How has Australia’s international presence evolved since the Second World War? How does it prioritize its own interests against those of the United States? Who are its key partners? In what ways does Australia factor into the geopolitical dynamics of the South China Sea? Does Australia stand a chance to shoulder a considerable amount of burden from the U.S. in this theater?

Today we're joined by  Dr. Michael Green, Professor and Chief Executive Officer at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney and Former Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and Senior Director for Asia.

Paramilitary organizations and private military companies have played significant roles in the execution of some countries’ foreign policy; Russia’s Wagner Group serves as one of the more notorious examples. Not officially recognized in the eyes of their country’s law, this paramilitary force carries out operations unhampered by the direct oversight of government. How has Russian foreign policy contributed to the rise of organizations such as the Wagner Group? What advantages do countries such as Russia see in using them? What purpose do they serve that cannot be accomplished by a national army? What challenges do they raise in the areas that they operate? Is the use of them increasing, or likely to?

Joining the conversation are two experts in the field: Kimberly Marten, faculty member of Columbia’s Harriman Institute for Russian, Eurasian and East European Studies, and Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies, and Jack Margolin, Program Director at Center for Advanced Defense Studies.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade

In late 2022, mass demonstrations broke out in China against the Zero Covid Policy. In a rare move, the Chinese government acknowledged these acts of dissent by relaxing Covid restrictions. However, despite this concession, there were many reports of protesters being tracked down with the help of an advanced state surveillance system and severely punished, with aggressive interrogations and threats to families. What are the politics of human rights and dissent in contemporary China, given the recent advancements in surveillance technology? What other countries are implementing China’s model of digital authoritarianism? Please join us for a discussion with Dr. Emile Dirks, Research Associate at University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab, Bulelani Jili, Meta Research Ph.D. Fellow at Harvard University, and Maya Wang, associate director in the Asia division at Human Rights Watch.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade

Pakistan is currently experiencing its worst economic crisis, exacerbated by political paralysis, devastating floods, rising inflation, and the resurgence of terrorism. The country is dealing with three intersecting crises: an economic crisis, a political crisis, and a security crisis that has grown since the fall of Kabul. How can Pakistan address the multi-faceted and interlocking challenges that the country faces, including climate change, unemployment, a weakening education system, political polarization, and severe internal conflicts? And what steps should international institutions take to promote stability in this nuclear-armed state? Join us to address Pakistan’s economic-socio-political challenges and consequences, the influence of its neighbors, and how all these forces are impacting Pakistan’s trajectory.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade
"Onycs - Dreamcatcher" is under a Creative Commons (CC BY 3.0) license. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...    / @onycs  Music promoted by BreakingCopyright:    • 😌 Calm & Ambient ...  

Over the years, recruitment and the creation of a healthy talent pipeline for national security jobs have become a concern. A changing landscape of challenges, including competition from the private sector, government shutdowns, shifts in educational priorities, and hiring freezes have complicated efforts to attract sufficient young talent with the right skillsets. In particular, the U.S. government faces significant gaps in cyber and IT talent. In recent years, there have been 16 times more federal employees in IT who are over 50 than under 30, leaving a looming talent cliff at a time when cyber and IT talent is more critical than ever. Join us for a discussion with Sherry Van Sloun, National Intelligence Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and recently served as assistant director of national intelligence for human capital at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), and Brett Hunt, the Senior Director of Volcker Alliance’s Next Generation Service Corps initiative, with over eighteen years of leadership experience in the public and private sectors, to look at how we build the national security workforce of the future and what steps we need to take now.

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"Sunrise Expedition" by Joseph McDade