Events at USIP

Myanmar Study Group Report Launch Feb 01, 2022

Last February, the Burmese army launched a coup and began reversing a decade of democratic and economic progress. In March 2021, USIP organized the Myanmar Study Group in response to the country’s evolving crisis. On the one-year anniversary of the military’s coup, on February 1, the Myanmar Study Group released its final report and USIP hosted a discussion on the study group’s findings and recommendations on topics such as the Burmese army, Myanmar’s economy, ethnic armed organizations, end state scenarios, humanitarian assistance, international actors and U.S. government policy alternatives.

Panelists

Lise Grande, opening remarks President & CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Christina Fink Professor of Practice of International Affairs, Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University

Daniel Twining President, International Republican Institute

Derek Mitchell Former U.S. Ambassador to Myanmar

Jason Tower, Country Director, Myanmar, U.S. Institute of Peace

Priscilla Clapp Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/myanmar-study-group-report-launch

Does the U.S. Strategy for Central Asia Address the Region’s Current Problems? Jan 27, 2022

In February 2020, the State Department published a public version of the U.S strategy for Central Asia, which placed particular emphasis on supporting Afghanistan and democracy in the region, in addition to economic goals. On January 27, USIP hosted a discussion on what a strategy for Central Asia could look like going forward given the significant change and uncertainty in the region.

Speakers

Lesslie Viguerie, introductory remarks Deputy Assistant Secretary for Central Asian and Pakistan Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Gavin Helf, moderator Senior Expert, Central Asia, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ambassador (Ret.) Richard Hoagland Chair, Security and Politics Program, Caspian Policy Center; Former U.S Ambassador to Kazakhstan

Jennifer Murtazashvili Associate Professor and Director, Center for Governance and Markets, University of Pittsburgh

S. Frederick Starr Chairman, Central Asia-Caucasus Institute

Navbahor Imamova Multimedia Journalist, Voice of America’s Uzbek Service

Donald Jensen Director, Russia and Strategic Stability, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/does-us-strategy-central-asia-address-regions-current-problems

PeaceCon@10: Closing Keynote - Hope Springs Eternal Jan 27, 2022

PeaceCon@10: COVID, Climate, and Conflict: Rising to the Challenges of a Disrupted World, explored how the peacebuilding field can address these pressing short and long-term challenges to achieve a more peaceful and secure world. On January 26, following a series of breakout sessions hosted by the Alliance for Peacebuilding, participants re-joined USIP for a fireside chat with closing keynote speaker Robert Jenkins of USAID.

Speakers

Robert Jenkins Assistant to the Administrator, Bureau for Conflict Prevention and Stabilization, USAID

Lise Grande, President & CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Liz Hume, moderator Executive Director, Alliance for Peacebuilding

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/peacecon10

PeaceCon@10: Rising to the Challenge of Climate Change Jan 27, 2022

On January 26, USIP and the Alliance for Peacebuilding hosted a plenary panel discussion to address the relationship among climate change, conflict and fragility, and consider strategies for the international community to address the peace and security implications of these issues as well as the ongoing pandemic.

Speakers

Ambassador Frederic Gateretse-Ngoga, introductory remarks Head of Conflict Prevention and Early Warning Division, African Union Commission

Polly Byers CEO, Karuna Center for Peacebuilding

Gillian Caldwell Agency Climate Change Coordinator and Deputy Assistant Administrator, USAID

Patrick Youssef Regional Director, Africa, International Committee of the Red Cross

Andrew Revkin, moderator Director, Initiative on Communication Innovation and Impact, The Earth Institute, Columbia University

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/peacecon10

Resolving the Legacies of Agent Orange Jan 25, 2022

The United States sprayed Agent Orange and related herbicides on 10,160 square miles of South Vietnam from 1961-1971, exposing millions of Vietnamese citizens and U.S. soldiers to dangerous dioxins and seriously affecting at least 150,000 Vietnamese children born after the war. On January 25, USIP hosted a discussion on its Vietnam War Legacies and Reconciliation Initiative -- the first in a series of seminars designed to offer diverse perspectives on U.S.-Vietnam cooperation concerning war legacies.

Speakers

Andrew Wells-Dang, introductory remarks Senior Expert, Vietnam, U.S. Institute of Peace

Charles Bailey Former Director, Agent Orange in Vietnam Program, Aspen Institute

Susan Berresford Former President, Ford Foundation; Convenor of the U.S.-Vietnam Dialogue Group on Agent Orange/Dioxin

Phan Xuân Dũng Research Officer, ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/resolving-legacies-agent-orange

30 Years Later: El Salvador’s Peace Accords Jan 21, 2022

This January marks the 30th anniversary of El Salvador’s peace accords between the government and left-wing guerrillas, which ended a decade-long civil war that claimed at least 75,000 lives. On January 20, USIP and the Due Process of Law Foundation held a discussion that examined what the 1992 peace agreement achieved, where and why it fell short, and what both domestic and international actors can do to help El Salvador address ongoing struggles with violence, polarization and impunity.

Speakers

Keith Mines, moderator Director, Latin America Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

Leonor Arteaga Program Director, Due Process of Law Foundation

Douglass Cassel Former Legal Advisor, U.N. Commission on the Truth for El Salvador; Professor Emeritus, School of Law, University of Notre Dame

Gino Costa Former Advisor, U.N. Observer Mission in El Salvador; Member of the Peruvian Congress

Alvaro de Soto Former U.N. Representative for the Central American Peace Process; Professor, Paris School of International Affairs, Sciences Po

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/30-years-later-el-salvadors-peace-accords

Peace and Security Issues at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Jan 19, 2022

Chinese and African political leaders met last year in Senegal for the eighth ministerial meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). On January 19, USIP hosted a discussion on the key takeaways from FOCAC 2021, China's long-term strategy in Africa's peace and security landscape, how China's bilateral relationships in Africa affect conflict dynamics — for example, in Ethiopia, where China has played an outsized economic role — and what it all means for U.S. foreign policy.

Speakers

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Abdul Hakeem Ajijola Chair, African Union Cyber Security Expert Group

Garth le Pere Professor, University of Pretoria; Senior Associate, Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection

Heather Ashby, moderator Senior Program Officer, Strategic Security and Stability, U.S. Institute of Peace

Joseph Sany, closing remarks Vice President, Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/peace-and-security-issues-forum-china-africa-cooperation

Defending Pluralism, Encouraging Tolerance and Building Democracy in Pakistan Jan 18, 2022

Rivets Learning, with support from USIP, has recently published a book of seven essays, “Pakistan Here and Now: Insights into Society, Culture, Identity and Diaspora”, that attempts to decipher the interplay of external discourse and local narratives of diversity and inclusion to help reshape the discussion around combating violent extremism in Pakistan. On January 18, USIP as hosted the book’s editor and several contributors for a discussion on the context and development of extremist narratives in Pakistan, as well as how they can be countered by a focus on inclusion and tolerance.

Speakers

Harris Khalique Poet and Editor of “Pakistan Here and Now”

Fatimah Ihsan Head of Gender Studies Department, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad; Contributor, “Pakistan Here and Now”

Hasan Zaidi Editor for Magazines, DAWN Group; Contributor, “Pakistan Here and Now”

Adnan Rafiq, moderator Country Director, Pakistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/defending-pluralism-encouraging-tolerance-and-building-democracy-pakistan

Is Governance the Taliban’s Achilles Heel? Jan 14, 2022

On January 12, USIP hosted a discussion with leading experts on the Taliban’s approach to governing Afghanistan so far — as well as how the United States and international community can assist the Afghan people despite the challenges the Taliban pose as the country’s sole authority.

Speakers

Scott Worden, moderator Director, Afghanistan & Central Asia, U.S Institute of Peace

Rahmatullah Amiri Independent Researcher and Author

Palwasha Kakar Interim Director, Religion and Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Asfandyar Mir, PhD Senior Expert, Asia, U.S. Institute of Peace

Andrew Watkins Senior Expert, Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/governance-talibans-achilles-heel

A ‘Faith for Rights‘ Approach to Promoting Sustainable Peace Dec 16, 2021

The #Faith4Rights Toolkit from the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) offers a way for religious actors, policymakers and practitioners to explore the links between human rights and peacebuilding, serving as a practical guide for engaging in human rights promotion in a variety of environments. On December 16, USIP and OHCHR hosted a conversation about religious actors’ support for human rights promotion, the #Faith4Rights Toolkit, and how the intersection of religion and human rights can help inform sustainable peace.

Speakers

Palwasha Kakar, opening remarks Acting Director, Religion and Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ibrahim Salama, opening remarks Chief, Human Rights Treaties Branch, OHCHR

Mostafa Betaree Director of Spotlight Team International Art and former OHCHR Minority Fellow

Mounir Elkadery Boudshish President of the Foundation Al-Moultaqa and director of the international Sufi forum

Nosy Ramamonjisoa Human Rights Treaties Branch, OHCHR

Knox Thames, Senior Visiting Expert, U.S. Institute of Peace

Melissa Nozell, moderator Program Officer, Religion and Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute Peace Michael Wiener, moderator Rule of Law, Equality and Non-discrimination Branch, OHCHR

Ibrahim Salama, closing remarks Chief, Human Rights Treaties Branch, OHCHR

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/faith-rights-approach-promoting-sustainable-peace

Youth, Peace and Security in Southeast Asia Dec 16, 2021

On December 15, USIP held a discussion with leading experts that explored the current efforts to develop national action plans on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) in Southeast Asia and identified key lessons for implementing the YPS agenda in the region.

Speakers

Theophilus Ekpon Executive Director, Centre for Sustainable Development and Education in Africa

Bill Flens Director of Multilateral Affairs, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of State

Brian Harding Senior Expert, U.S. Institute of Peace

Jenni Kilpi Junior Advisor, Permanent Mission of Finland to the UN

Vanessa Vianco S. Pallarco Director for Social Healing and Peacebuilding, Department of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Philippines

Paula Porras Program Officer, U.S. Institute of Peace

Saji Prelis Co-Chair of the Global Coalition on Youth, Peace and Security

Karla Rodulfo Project Officer and Deputy Director, Youth, Peace and Security Division, Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process

Mridul Upadhay, moderator U.S. Institute of Peace Generation Change Fellow

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/youth-peace-and-security-southeast-asia

Does Community Policing Build Trust in Police and Reduce Crime? Dec 15, 2021

The Evidence in Governance and Politics (EGAP) network has released the findings from its latest Metaketa research study, which examines the question: Does community policing build trust in police and reduce crime? It combines the results of field studies on locally-appropriate community policing practices in Brazil, Colombia, Liberia, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Uganda. On December 14, USIP hosted security sector experts and practitioners for an in-depth look at EGAP’s Metaketa results — as well as a discussion on how we can use these important findings to help shape the future of community policing.

Speakers

Presenters

Graeme Blair Assistant Professor, University of California Los Angeles

Dorothy Kronick Assistant Professor of Political Science, University of Pennsylvania

Nico Ravanilla Assistant Professor of Political Science, University of California San Diego

Zulfiqar Hameed Additional Inspector General of Police Operations, Punjab Police

Panelists

Ena Dion Senior Program Officer, Justice and Security Dialogues, U.S. Institute of Peace

Sandra Pabon Senior Program Director, Citizen Security Dialogues, U.S. Institute of Peace

‘Kemi Okenyodo Executive Director, Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative

Joseph Hewitt, moderator Vice President of Policy, Learning, and Strategy, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/does-community-policing-build-trust-police-and-reduce-crime

Bolivia’s Search for Justice and Reconciliation Dec 14, 2021

Bolivia’s October 2019 national elections convulsed the country as fraud allegations triggered widespread protests and social conflict. On December 13, USIP and WOLA held an in-depth discussion of the Interdisciplinary Group of Independent Experts’ findings and an examination of how the GIEI’s recommendations can promote the kind of accountability, healing and common understanding across Bolivia’s political and identity divides that could ultimately prevent the repetition of the conflict, violence and human rights violations that marked the country’s 2019 electoral crisis.

Speakers

Steve Hege, introductory remarks Deputy Regional Director for Latin America, U.S. Institute of Peace

Juan Mendez Former Member, GIEI; Professor of Human Rights Law in Residence, Washington College of Law, American University

Patricia Tappatá Valdez Former Member, GIEI Member, Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Jaime Vidal Former Executive Secretary, GIEI; Coordinator, Follow-Up and Impact Section, IACHR

Senator Patricia Arce First Secretary, Justice Commission, Senate of Bolivia

Eduardo Rodriguez Velzté Former Interim President of Bolivia

Alejandro Bilbao La Vieja Chargé d’Affaires, of the Embassy of the Plurinational State of Bolivia to the US

Kathryn Ledebur, moderator Director, Andean Information Network

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/bolivias-search-justice-and-reconciliation

From Stabilization to Prevention: Changing the U.S. Strategy on Violent Conflict Dec 10, 2021

On December 10, USIP hosted Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) and Rep. Peter Meijer (R-MI), both members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, for a conversation on how they are elevating the role of conflict prevention in U.S. foreign policy and ensuring that lessons from past U.S. stabilization missions are incorporated into future planning. They also discussed how their past international experiences and current work in Congress are advancing U.S. interests in peace and security.

Speakers

Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) U.S. Representative from California @RepSaraJacobs

Rep. Peter Meijer (R-MI) U.S. Representative from Michigan @RepMeijer

Lise Grande, moderator President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/stabilization-prevention-changing-us-strategy-violent-conflict

Libyan General Elections 2021: Discussion Series with Libyan Leaders - A Conversation with Abdul Majeed Saif Al-Nasr Dec 09, 2021

On December 9, USIP held the fourth in a series of public discussions with Libyan leaders connected to the elections scheduled in the coming months. This fourth event featured Abdul Majeed Saif Al-Nasr. Born in Sebha in 1957, he is former member of the National Transitional Council and former Libyan ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco (2014-2018). He was recently endorsed by the House of Representatives as ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Morocco and the Maghreb region.

Speakers

Mr. Abdul Majeed Saif Al-Nasr Former diplomat and Libyan politician

Dr. Mike Yaffe, moderator Vice President, Middle East and North Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/libyan-general-elections-2021-discussion-series-libyan-leaders-2

The Shocking Rise in Coups - Day 2: Myanmar Dec 09, 2021

As the Biden administration commits to revitalizing global democracy, the shocking rise in the number of recent coups demands an urgent response from the United States and its allies and partners. On December 7 and 8, ahead of the Biden administration’s Summit for Democracy, USIP held a two-part event that examined the dynamics driving four of the seven coups and coup attempts that we’ve seen over the past two years. Day 2 featured a discussion on Myanmar.

Speakers

Billy Ford, moderator Program Officer, Myanmar, U.S. Institute of Peace

Khin Ohmar Human Right Activist; Founder, Progressive Voice

Sai Kyaw Nyunt General Secretary, Shan National League for Democracy

Myat The Thitsar Researcher, University of Massachusetts

Gum San Spokesperson, Kachin Political Interim Coordination Team

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/shocking-rise-coups-day-2

The Shocking Rise in Coups - Day 2: Guinea-Conakry Dec 09, 2021

As the Biden administration commits to revitalizing global democracy, the shocking rise in the number of recent coups demands an urgent response from the United States and its allies and partners. On December 7 and 8, ahead of the Biden administration’s Summit for Democracy, USIP held a two-part event that examined the dynamics driving four of the seven coups and coup attempts that we’ve seen over the past two years. Day 2 featured a discussion on Guinea-Conakry.

Speakers

Oge Onubogu, moderator Director, West Africa Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

Alexis Arieff Specialist in African Affairs, Congressional Research Services

Ibrahima Niang Regional Advocacy Manager, Open Society Institute West Africa

Christopher Fomunyoh Senior associate and regional director for Central and West Africa, National Democratic Institute

Joseph Siegle Director of Research, Africa Center for Strategic Studies, National Defense University

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/shocking-rise-coups-day-2

Safeguarding Democracy in West Africa Dec 09, 2021

On December 7, USIP and the National Endowment for Democracy held a virtual discussion on safeguarding democracy in West Africa through youth-led movements. Youth activists from Nigeria, Togo and Guinea shared their thoughts on the frustrations driving protests and new models for democratic activism.

Speakers

DJ Switch (Obianuju Catherine Udeh) Award-Winning Nigerian Musician and Activist; Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellow, National Endowment for Democracy

Senami Kojah Award-Winning Nigerian Investigative Journalist; Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellow, National Endowment for Democracy

Farida Nabourema Togolese Human Rights Activist and Writer; Jennings Randolph Senior Research Fellow, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ibrahima Diallo Coordinator, Tournons La Page-Guinea; Head of Operations for the National Front for the Defense of the Guinean Constitution

Jonathan Pinckney Senior Researcher, Nonviolent Action, U.S. Institute of Peace

Zachariah Mampilly Marxe Endowed Chair of International Affairs, Marxe School of Public and International Affairs, CUNY

Oge Onubogu, moderator Director, West Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/safeguarding-democracy-west-africa

The Shocking Rise in Coups - Day 1: Mali Dec 08, 2021

As the Biden administration commits to revitalizing global democracy, the shocking rise in the number of recent coups demands an urgent response from the United States and its allies and partners. On December 7 and 8, ahead of the Biden administration’s Summit for Democracy, USIP held a two-part event that examined the dynamics driving four of the seven coups and coup attempts that we’ve seen over the past two years. Day 1 featured a discussion on Mali.

Speakers

Ena Dion, moderator Senior Program Officer on Governance, Justice and Security, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ambassador J. Peter Pham Distinguished Fellow, Africa Center, Atlantic Council; Former United States Special Envoy for the Sahel Region

Ibrahim Yahaya Ibrahim Consulting Senior Analyst on the Sahel, International Crisis Group

Mariam Diallo Drame President, Association Femmes Leadership et Développement Durable (AFLED)

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/shocking-rise-coups-day-1

The Shocking Rise in Coups - Day 1: Sudan Dec 08, 2021

As the Biden administration commits to revitalizing global democracy, the shocking rise in the number of recent coups demands an urgent response from the United States and its allies and partners. On December 7 and 8, ahead of the Biden administration’s Summit for Democracy, USIP held a two-part event that examined the dynamics driving four of the seven coups and coup attempts that we’ve seen over the past two years. Day 1 featured a discussion on Sudan.

Speakers

Susan Stigant, moderator Director, Africa Programs, Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ahmed Kodouda Former Senior Policy Advisor, Ministry of Cabinet Affairs

Solomon Dersso Managing Director, Amani Africa

Hala Al Karib Regional Director, Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa

Joseph Tucker Senior Expert, Greater Horn of Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/shocking-rise-coups-day-1

Joining Democracy and Peace Dec 06, 2021

In support of the White House’s Summit for Democracy, USIP hosted a conversation with civil-society leaders from five democracies that are affected by diverse and challenging conflicts — Colombia, Iraq, Nigeria, the Philippines and Ukraine. The discussion examined the prospects for democracy and peace in these countries, how the goals of greater democracy and greater peace are linked, what lessons the leaders learned in joining together democracy and peace, and how the international democratic community can better support their efforts.

Speakers

Lise Grande, moderator President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Uzra Zeya, keynote remarks Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights

Farhad Alaaldin Chair, Iraq Advisory Council, Iraq

Maria Jimena Duzan Host, “A Fondo” podcast, Colombia

Glenda Gloria Executive Editor, Rappler, Philippines

Idayat Hassan Director, Centre for Democracy and Development, Nigeria

Oleksandra Matviychuk Chair, Center for Civil Liberties, Ukraine

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/joining-democracy-and-peace

Averting a Fiscal and Humanitarian Disaster in Afghanistan Dec 03, 2021

In the three months since the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan’s numerous economic and humanitarian challenges have reached a catastrophic tipping point. On December 3, USIP hosted a discussion with leading international experts and aid workers on the current economic and humanitarian challenges in Afghanistan, as well as how the U.S and international community can better assist Afghans at this time of significant need.

Speakers

Scott Worden, welcoming remarks Director, Afghanistan & Central Asia, U.S Institute of Peace

Vicki Aken Afghanistan Country Director, International Rescue Committee

William Byrd Senior Expert, Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

Abdallah Al Dardari Resident Representative in Afghanistan, United Nations Development Program

Khalid Payenda Former Acting Finance Minister of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Kate Bateman, moderator Senior Expert, Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/averting-fiscal-and-humanitarian-disaster-afghanistan

Libyan General Elections 2021: Discussion Series with Libyan Leaders - A Conversation with Dr. Aref Ali Nayed Dec 03, 2021

USIP is hosting a series of public discussions with Libyan leaders connected to the elections scheduled in the coming months. The third discussion, on November 18, featured Dr. Aref Ali Nayed, who is the chairman of Ihya Libya (Reviving Libya) — a registered political party — and has served as the former ambassador of Libya to the United Arab Emirates and is also the chairman of both Kalam Research & Media and the Libya Institute for Advanced Studies.

Speakers

Dr. Aref Ali Nayed Chairman, Ihya Libya

Mike Yaffe, moderator Vice President, Middle East and North Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/libyan-general-elections-2021-discussion-series-libyan-leaders-1

Learning from U.S.-Vietnam Cooperation on Wartime Remains Recovery Dec 02, 2021

Accounting for missing personnel is an essential component of postwar reconciliation and building a secure peace. With support from Congress, USIP launched the Vietnam War Legacies and Reconciliation Initiative in August 2021. The initiative supports reconciliation between the U.S. and Vietnamese governments and peoples, as well as among Vietnamese inside and outside the country, and aims to document and promote the ongoing cooperation to address legacies of war as the basis for a comprehensive partnership build on trust and shared interests. On December 2, USIP hosted a discussion that looks at U.S.-Vietnam cooperation in the search for, and identification of, wartime Vietnamese remains along with personal stories of Vietnamese families who lost relatives in the war.

Speakers

Ambassador George Moose, welcoming remarks Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

Kelly K. McKeague Director, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA)

Sr. Col. Đoàn Quang Hòa Deputy Chief of Office, National Steering Committee 515

Hải Nguyễn Director, Global Vietnam Wars Studies Initiative, Harvard University

Tim Rieser Foreign Policy Aide to U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy

Thảo Griffiths Independent Consultant on War Legacies, Hanoi

Hoàng Thanh Nga Deputy Chief of Mission, Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the United States

Andrew Wells-Dang, moderator Senior Expert, Vietnam, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/learning-us-vietnam-cooperation-wartime-remains-recovery

Security Dilemmas in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Role of Community-Based Armed Groups Dec 02, 2021

Since 2018, the RESOLVE Network has been researching the complex interactions between armed groups, civilians, state actors and international security — with particular attention to discerning women’s roles, agency and choices in conflict. On December 1, USIP and the RESOLVE Network held a virtual conversation that examined how community-based armed groups impact the wider conflict ecosystems in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Speakers

Dr. Alastair Reed, welcoming remarks Senior Expert and Executive Director, RESOLVE Network

Nicoletta Barbera, introductory remarks Senior Program Officer, Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Lauren Van Metre, moderator Senior Advisor, Peace and Security, National Democratic Institute

Dr. Jakana Thomas Associate Professor, School of Global Policy and Strategy, University of California San Diego

Rida Lyammouri Associate Fellow, Clingendael Institute; Senior Fellow, Policy Center for the New South

Bogi Bozsogi, concluding remarks Executive Coordination and Network Manager, RESOLVE Network

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/security-dilemmas-sub-saharan-africa-role-community-based-armed-groups

Beyond AUKUS and the Quad: What’s Next for the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy Nov 19, 2021

The Biden administration has focused considerable attention on the Indo-Pacific region, declaring it central to advancing a range of U.S. economic, political and security interests. The Quad grouping held its first ever in-person Leaders’ Summit in September. And that same month, the Australia-United Kingdom-United States agreement opened the door to sharing sensitive defense technologies with Australia. On November 19, USIP held a special event with U.S. National Security Council Coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, Dr. Kurt Campbell, about the AUKUS partnership, the Quad’s development, and next steps for U.S. Indo-Pacific policy in the aftermath of the Biden-Xi virtual summit.

Keynote

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Kurt Campbell, keynote remarks Coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, U.S. National Security Council

Stephen J. Hadley, moderator Former Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/beyond-aukus-and-quad-whats-next-us-indo-pacific-strategy

Racially and Ethnically Motivated Violent Extremism: Global Trends and Dynamics Nov 17, 2021

Attention to racially and ethnically motivated violent extremism (REMVE) and far-right extremism around the globe has increased significantly over the past few years as white supremacist and REMVE-motivated attacks and rhetoric have proliferated. As a part of RESOLVE’s sixth annual Global Forum Series, the RESOLVE Network held a virtual conversation on November 16 about REMVE trends and activities in lesser discussed contexts. This discussion explored manifestations of REMVE movements and ideologies in Australia and India, focusing on their similarities and differences, transnational links, narratives, and overall implications for efforts to address threats posed by their activities.

Speakers

Alastair Reed, opening remarks Senior Expert and Executive Director, RESOLVE Network

Amarnath Amarasingam Assistant Professor, School of Religion, Queen’s University; Member, RESOLVE Research Advisory Council

Julian Droogan Senior Lecturer, Department of Security Studies and Criminology, Macquarie University; Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Policing, Intelligence and Counter Terrorism

Lise Waldek Lecturer, Department of Security Studies and Criminology, Macquarie University; Member, Executive Committee for the Addressing Violent Extremism and Radicalisation to Terrorism Research Network

Cynthia Miller-Idriss, moderator/chair Professor, American University Director, Polarization and Extremism Research & Innovation Lab at American University

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/racially-and-ethnically-motivated-violent-extremism-remve-global-trends-and-dynamics

Libyan General Elections 2021: Discussion Series with Libyan Leaders - A Conversation with Fadel Lamen Nov 17, 2021

On November 2, USIP held the second in a series of public discussions with Libyan leaders connected to the elections scheduled in the coming months. These events will dive into complex questions regarding efforts to prevent electoral violence, the electoral process itself and leaders’ visions for restoring peace and stability in Libya. This second event featured Fadel Lamen, who most recently served as director-general of the Libyan National Economic and Social Development Board. He is the founder of Afaak Al-Watan, a new Libyan political party with a future-focused agenda aiming to empower youth and women as critical contributors. Lamen is also an architect of the Libyan Political Agreement, which is currently governing Libya’s transition under U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Speakers

Fadel Lamen Founder, Afaak Al-Watan

Mike Yaffe, moderator Vice President, Middle East and North Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/libyan-general-elections-2021-discussion-series-libyan-leaders-0

Celebrating 21 Years of UNSCR 1325 Nov 09, 2021

Twenty-one years ago, the United Nations unanimously adopted U.N. Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, which requires parties to a conflict to ensure the protection of women and girls as well as the full and meaningful participation of women and girls in conflict resolution. On November 9, USIP and the State Department’s Office of Global Women’s Issues co-hosted a discussion on the progress made on women, peace and security issues and a look forward to the years ahead.

Speakers

Katrina Fotovat, moderator Senior Official, Secretary's Office of Global Women's Issues, U.S. Department of State

Ambassador Nancy Soderberg Senior Resident Director for Kosovo, NDI Former Alternate Representative to the United Nations

Susan Stigant, welcoming remarks Director, Africa Programs, Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

Mari Traore Project Officer, Women Preventing Violent Extremism, Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/celebrating-21-years-unscr-1325

Now Comes the Hard Part: Can the Taliban Govern Afghanistan? Nov 05, 2021

For the Taliban, it seems that defeating the Afghan military and overthrowing the elected government as U.S. troops departed was the easy part. Now, the insurgency faces the daunting challenge of governing a weak and divided country. On November 4, USIP hosted a discussion with Afghanistan experts on how the Taliban are likely to respond to internal and external pressure to govern more inclusively as conditions inside Afghanistan worsen, as well as what the United States and the region can do to avoid the worst consequences of failed governance and mitigate a looming disaster.

Speakers

Stephen Brooking Former Peace Process Special Advisor, U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan

Naheed Farid Chairperson of House Standing Committee for Human Rights, Civil Society and Women Affairs

Lotfullah Najafizada Director, TOLO News

Scott Worden, moderator Director, Afghanistan and Central Asia Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/now-comes-hard-part-can-taliban-govern-afghanistan

Libyan General Elections 2021: Discussion Series with Libyan Leaders - A Conversation with Fathi Bashagha Nov 05, 2021

On October 27, USIP held the first in a series of public discussions with Libyan leaders connected to the elections scheduled in the coming months. These events will dive into complex questions regarding efforts to prevent electoral violence, the electoral process itself and leaders’ visions for restoring peace and stability in Libya. This first discussion featured Fathi Bashagha, who has held several important positions since the 2011 revolution, including as a member of the Libyan Military Council and the Libyan House of Representatives and as minister of interior in the Government of National Accord from 2018-2021.

Speakers

Fathi Bashagha Former Minister of Interior, Government of National Accord, Libya

Mike Yaffe, moderator Vice President, Middle East and North Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/libyan-general-elections-2021-discussion-series-libyan-leaders

Taking Stock of U.S. Policy on Ethiopia: A Conversation with Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman Nov 02, 2021

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has signaled plans to launch a national dialogue and there are other efforts to build a national consensus on the political structure of Ethiopia. However, the country’s polarization — further deepened by the war — has created significant challenges in putting together an inclusive, genuine dialogue. On November 2, USIP hosted Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman, U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, for an address to take stock of the Biden-Harris administration’s policy toward Ethiopia and pathways toward halting violence and renewing the promise of reform, peace and prosperity.

Speakers

Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa

Lise Grande, moderator President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/taking-stock-us-policy-ethiopia-conversation-ambassador-jeffrey-feltman

Incorporating Religious Sensitivity in Trauma Healing for Displaced Persons Oct 22, 2021

As part of this year’s World Mental Health Day, the U.S. Institute of Peace and the U.S. Department of State’s Office of International Religious Freedom’s Strategic Religious Engagement Unit hosted a discussion on religion, MHPSS and migration. The conversation drew on findings from USIP’s initiative on Religious and Psychosocial Support for Displaced Trauma Survivors, which has identified specific ways in which faith-sensitive mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) can increase the effectiveness of trauma healing interventions for migrants and refugees. Panelists offered insight on actions that can be implemented in current efforts to assist migrants from highly religious contexts and to improve the quality of and accessibility to MHPSS to facilitate integration and reconciliation.

Speakers

Palwasha Kakar, opening remarks Interim Director, Religion and Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dan Nadel, opening remarks Senior Department Official, Office of International Religious Freedom, U.S. Department of State

Dr. Alastair Ager Director, Institute of Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Dr. Elena Fiddian-Qasmiyeh Principal Investigator, Refugee Hosts; Professor of Migration and Refugee Studies, University College London

Dr. Wilson López López Professor, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana

Cristal Palacios Founder and Director, Psicodiáspora Camilo Ramirez Parra Country Director, HIAS Colombia Nida Ansari, moderator Policy Advisor, Strategic Religious Engagement, U.S. Department of State

Andres Martinez Garcia, moderator Program Manager, Religion and Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Jerry White, closing remarks Award-Winning Humanitarian Activist and Professor of Practice, University of Virginia

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/incorporating-religious-sensitivity-trauma-healing-displaced-persons

2021 Women Building Peace Award Ceremony Oct 21, 2021

The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) Women Building Peace Award, now in its second year, celebrates extraordinary women from conflict-affected and fragile regions working to build peace. On October 20, we honored these heroic finalists and announced the recipient of the award. In addition to honoring the awardee and all the finalists, this year USIP paid special tribute to all Afghan women.

Speakers

Lise Grande President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Kamissa Camara Senior Visiting Expert for the Sahel, U.S. Institute of Peace

Nancy Lindborg, Women Building Peace Council Honorary Chair President and CEO, The David and Lucile Packard Foundation

Megan Beyer, Women Building Peace Council Co-Chair Principal, Megan C Beyer Associates

Marcia Myers Carlucci, Women Building Peace Council Co-Chair Chair, Board of Trustees at National Museum of Women in the Arts

Nelufar Hedayat Journalist, Filmmaker

Michelle Howard U.S. Navy Admiral (Ret.)

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/2021-women-building-peace-award-ceremony

A Conversation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Youth Leaders on Compassion, Education and Equality: Session 2 Oct 15, 2021

For four years, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has met with youth leaders from conflict-affected regions for an intergenerational exchange at his compound in Dharamsala, India through the Generation Change Fellows Program at the U.S. Institute of Peace. In Session 2 on October 14, they spoke about education for the heart and mind.

Speakers

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

Sharing of Stories and Q&A with USIP Generation Change Fellows

Lise Grande, moderator
Sophia Santi USIP Generation Change Fellow, Venezuela
Tania Rosas USIP Generation Change Fellow, Colombia
Nicholas Songora USIP Generation Change Fellow, Kenya
Faten Khalfallah USIP Generation Change Fellow, Tunisia

Discussion on Impact

Soukaina Hamia USIP Generation Change Fellow, Morocco

Closing Remarks

Lise Grande

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/conversation-his-holiness-dalai-lama-and-youth-leaders-compassion-education-and-equality

A Conversation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Youth Leaders on Compassion, Education and Equality: Session 1 Oct 15, 2021

For four years, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has met with youth leaders from conflict-affected regions for an intergenerational exchange at his compound in Dharamsala, India through the Generation Change Fellows Program at the U.S. Institute of Peace. In Session 1 on October 13, they spoke about gender equality.

Speakers

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

Sharing of Stories and Q&A with USIP Generation Change Fellows

Lise Grande, moderator
Nyachangkuoth Rambang Tai USIP Generation Change Fellow, South Sudan
Ashar Omer USIP Generation Change Fellow, Afghanistan
Mithila Hore USIP Generation Change Fellow, Bangladesh
Muqimi Muborak USIP Generation Change Fellow, Tajikistan

Discussion on Impact

Gharsanay Amin USIP Generation Change Fellow, Afghanistan

Closing Remarks

Lise Grande

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/conversation-his-holiness-dalai-lama-and-youth-leaders-compassion-education-and-equality

The 30th Anniversary of Cambodia’s Paris Peace Agreements Oct 14, 2021

October 23 marks 30 years since the Paris Peace Agreements (PPA) formally ended the Cambodian civil war. USIP and the Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO) hosted a discussion on October 14 that reflected on the principles of the agreements, the extent to which signatories have adhered to them and the continued relevance of the agreements today.

Speakers

Ariel Eckblad, remarks Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations, U.S. Department of State.

H.E. Chum Sounry Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace Craig Etcheson Visiting Scientist, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University Caroline Hughes Associate Dean for Policy & Practice; Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C. Chair in Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame Aizawa Nobuhiro Associate Professor, Kyushu University Sorpong Peou Professor, Ryerson University

Chak Sopheap Executive Director, Cambodian Center for Human Rights (CCHR)

Andrew Wells-Dang, moderator Senior Expert, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/30th-anniversary-cambodias-paris-peace-agreements

Pakistan’s Economic Future Oct 14, 2021

As Pakistani leaders meet with the International Monetary Fund, Pakistan continues to make the case for a new era of relations with the United States based on geoeconomics. On October 13, USIP hosted a conversation with Pakistani Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin on the country’s economic future, efforts to pivot to a geoeconomic relationship with the United States, and the impact of Afghanistan’s crisis on regional stability.

Speakers

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace Shaukat Tarin Federal Minster of Financial and Revenue Affairs, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Dr. Peter Lavoy, moderator Former Senior Director for South Asia, National Security Council

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/pakistans-economic-future

A Conversation with Republic of Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema Sep 23, 2021

On September 23, USIP hosted a conversation with newly-elected Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and a panel of experts that explored Hichilema’s governing priorities, as well as his approach toward key continent-wide issues such as Africa’s engagement with China, implementation of the African Union Agenda 2063, youth and gender issues, and lessons learned to strengthen democracy across Africa.

Speakers

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ambassador George E. Moose, moderator Vice Chair of the Board, U.S. Institute of Peace

His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema President of the Republic of Zambia

Dana Banks Special Assistant to the President of the United States; Senior Director for Africa, National Security Council

Ambassador Johnnie Carson Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/conversation-republic-zambia-president-hakainde-hichilema

The Peril and Potential of War Zone Partnerships Sep 16, 2021

Violent conflicts are increasingly defined by overlapping webs of alliances, proxies and other types of “support relationships” between state and non-state belligerents. To help policymakers understand the stakes of these partnerships, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) recently launched its seminal report, “Allies, Partners and Proxies: Managing Support Relationships in Armed Conflict to Reduce the Human Cost of War.” On September 16, USIP and ICRC held a discussion on the report’s findings, how they can be applied to security partnerships, and the practical steps that U.S. and international policymakers should consider to better protect civilians in today’s increasingly complex crises.

Speakers

Lise Grande President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Peter Maurer President, International Committee of the Red Cross

Lieutenant General Michael K. Nagata, USA (Ret)

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/peril-and-potential-war-zone-partnerships

Twenty Years After 9/11: How Peacebuilding Has Changed Sep 10, 2021

On September 10, 2021, USIP reflected on how the tragic events of 9/11 have shaped the field of peacebuilding. USIP Board Chair and former National Security Advisor Stephen J. Hadley, USIP Vice Chair Ambassador George Moose and USIP President and CEO Lise Grande discussed how the field of peacebuilding has changed in the last 20 years — and how it should evolve to meet the challenges that will define the next two decades.

Speakers

Lise Grande President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Stephen J. Hadley Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace Ambassador George Moose Vice Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/twenty-years-after-911-how-peacebuilding-has-changed

Religion, Identity and Conflict in Northern Nigeria Sep 09, 2021

Conflict in northern Nigeria is once again on the rise. On September 9, USIP and Mercy Corps held a discussion about new research and evidence that examine the complex linkages between the political, economic and identity-based conflicts that are driving broader conflict in northern Nigeria — as well as the implications for policy and programmatic interventions. The conversation covered the multiple overlapping cleavages related to identity (including ethnicity and religion) and livelihood activities (such as farming and pastoralism) that continue to animate violence in the region.

Speakers

Oge Onubogu, moderator Director, West Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Kaltumi Abdulazeez Program Officer, Community Initiative to Promote Peace (CIPP) Program, Interfaith Mediation Center Jason Klocek Senior Researcher, Religion and Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace Assistant Professor, School of Politics and International Relations, University of Nottingham

Emmanuel Ogbudu Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Manager, Mercy Corps

Ryan Sheely Director of Research, Mercy Corps

Mukhtari Shitu Conflict Program Specialist, USAID

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/religion-identity-and-conflict-northern-nigeria

Pakistan’s National Security Outlook: A Conversation with Pakistani National Security Advisor Moeed Yusuf Aug 06, 2021

With escalating violence in Afghanistan, intensifying competition between the United States and China, limited hopes for rapprochement with India, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Pakistan’s neighborhood is evolving — and Pakistan’s national security approach will have to evolve with it. On August 5, USIP hosted a conversation with Pakistan’s National Security Advisor Moeed Yusuf. The discussion looked at what these developments mean for Pakistan’s national security outlook towards its neighbors and its relationship with the United States, as well as how the pandemic impacts Pakistan’s security and economic policy.

Speakers

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Moeed Yusuf National Security Advisor, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Ambassador Richard Olson, moderator Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/pakistans-national-security-outlook

Whose Court Is the Ball In? Making Progress on Peace and Denuclearization With North Korea Aug 04, 2021

North Korea’s unwillingness or hesitation to meet with the United States raises questions about North Korea’s motivations, fears and calculus — as well as whether Washington and Seoul’s best course of action is greater outreach, pressure or patience. On August 4, USIP and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea co-hosted a discussion on the current state of diplomacy with North Korea.

Speakers

Ki-jung Kim President, Institute of National Security Strategy

Joseph Yun Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

Gee Dong Lee Senior Research Fellow, Institute of National Security Strategy

Moon-soo Yang Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor, University of North Korean Studies

Hee-Seung Na Former President, Korea Railroad Research Institute

Kathleen Stephens President and CEO, Korea Economic Institute of America

Markus Garlauskas Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council

Frank Aum, moderator Senior Expert, Northeast Asia, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/whose-court-ball-making-progress-peace-and-denuclearization-north-korea

Addressing the Legacies of the Vietnam War: The Next Step Forward Aug 03, 2021

The U.S. government will soon launch a Vietnamese Wartime Accounting Initiative following decades of Vietnamese cooperation to conduct the fullest possible accounting of missing U.S. personnel. To support this and other bilateral initiatives, USIP has established a new project that will promote greater dialogue both in and between the United States and Vietnam on war legacy issues and reconciliation. On August 3, USIP hosted a discussion with U.S. and Vietnamese officials on the Vietnamese Wartime Accounting Initiative and how it fits into broader efforts to overcome legacies of war.

Speakers

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) U.S. Senator; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations

Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien Deputy Minister, Vietnam Ministry of National Defense

Ha Kim Ngoc Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the United States

Christopher Klein Chargé d’Affaires, U.S. Embassy in Vietnam

Colonel Thomas Stevenson U.S. Defense Attaché, U.S. Embassy in Hanoi

Ann Marie Yastishock Mission Director to Vietnam, USAID Major General Tran Quoc Dung Chief of the Executive Office, NSC-515

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ambassador George Moose, moderator Vice Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

Brian Harding, moderator Senior Expert, Southeast Asia, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/addressing-legacies-vietnam-war-next-step-forward

Nuclear Security Policy in an Era of Strategic Competition Jul 29, 2021

The Congressional Nuclear Security Working Group, co-chaired by Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) and Rep. Bill Foster (D-IL), is a bipartisan caucus dedicated to facilitating awareness and engagement on the urgent threats posed by the prospect of nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism. The caucus goals include strengthening nuclear safeguards, securing fissile material and preventing the misuse and spread of sensitive nuclear materials and technologies. On July 28, USIP hosted a conversation with Reps. Fortenberry and Foster to explore some of the key issues facing policymakers when it comes to nuclear nonproliferation, maintenance and modernization, and diplomacy in this era of strategic competition.

Speakers

Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) U.S. Representative from Nebraska @JeffFortenberry

Rep. Bill Foster (D-IL) U.S. Representative from Illinois @RepBillFoster

Lise Grande, moderator President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/nuclear-security-policy-era-strategic-competition

The Convention on Refugees at 70: A Conversation with Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield Jul 28, 2021

Driven by violent conflict and insecurity, the world is facing a new displacement crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated displacement trends, pushing healthcare infrastructure to the brink and creating dire economic conditions as countries struggle to contain the virus. Meanwhile, climate change uprooted more than 30 million people—the highest figure in a decade. On July 28, USIP hosted U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield to reflect on the 70th anniversary of the Refugee Convention and its critical importance in the current global context. The discussion took stock of the global community’s efforts to protect the rights of refugees and asylum seekers under international refugee and humanitarian law and considered how the United States and its network of allies and partners can better protect those rights in a moment of profound global crisis and uncertainty.

Speakers

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations

Lise Grande President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/convention-refugees-70-conversation-ambassador-linda-thomas-greenfield

China’s Potential Role in Venezuela’s Political and Humanitarian Crisis Jul 26, 2021

China-Venezuela relations were strong at the outset of the 21st Century, but there are indications that China may be growing dissatisfied with the status quo. These include failed infrastructure projects, labor disputes, the challenges of navigating oil embargos and, most importantly, Venezuela’s inability to repay billions of dollars in loans from China. These economic interests will most likely be an important consideration as Beijing navigates its possible involvement in resolving the crisis. On July 22, USIP hosted a discussion on the nature of the China-Venezuela relationship, the role China could realistically play in support of a negotiated political settlement and how Washington and Beijing may be able to find common ground on key issues.

Speakers

Keith Mines, opening remarks Director, Latin America Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Adriana Erthal Abdenur, Executive Director, Plataforma CIPÓ (Brazil)

Marialbert Barrios Deputy, Primero Justicia, National Assembly of Venezuela

Matthew Ferchen Research Fellow, Leiden University

Yuan Mengqi Researcher, China-Latin America Issues, Institute for International and Area Studies, Tsinghua University

Joseph Tucker Senior Expert, Greater Horn of Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Amb. Thomas A. Shannon Jr., closing remarks U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, 2016-2018

Henry Tugendhat, moderator Senior Policy Analyst, China, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/chinas-potential-role-venezuelas-political-and-humanitarian-crisis

Africa at the Crossroads: A Conversation with DRC President and AU Chair Félix Tshisekedi and Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA) Jul 23, 2021

After being selected as the chair of the African Union this year, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo set an ambitious agenda for 2021 — ranging from the promotion of African culture to peacebuilding to COVID-19 vaccine distribution. On July 20, USIP hosted a discussion with President Tshisekedi and Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA), chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, and Global Human Rights, that focused on a range of important issues confronting Africa, including strengthening democracy, human rights, economic growth, COVID vaccine availability and responding to peace and security challenges.

Speakers

Félix Antoine Tshilombo Tshisekedi President of Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chair of the African Union @Presidence_RDC

Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA) U.S. Representative; Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, and Global Human Rights @RepKarenBass

Dr. Joseph Sany Vice President, Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace @Josephsany1

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/africa-crossroads-conversation-drc-president-and-au-chair-felix-tshisekedi-and-rep-karen

A (Pandemic) Year in the Life of a Peace Teacher Jul 12, 2021

The Peace Teachers Program is rooted in the conviction that educators can be pivotal in bringing issues of international conflict and practical peacebuilding skills into their classrooms, schools and communities. Each school year, USIP selects a cohort of outstanding American middle and high school teachers from different U.S. states to receive education, resources and support to strengthen their teaching of international conflict and peace. On July 8, USIP hosted the 2019-2021 Peace Teachers as they shared their experiences, insights and strategies for engaging new generations in peacebuilding based on their time in the program — including how their own approaches to teaching conflict and peace evolved during this tumultuous period.

Speakers

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Jill Armstrong Greenup County High School, Greenup, KY

Sarah Campbell Ketchikan High School, Ketchikan, AK

Katrina Gotschall O’Neill High School, O’Neill, NE

Emily Philpott St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, Ridgeland, MS

Megan Chabalowski Senior Outreach Officer, Public Education, U.S. Institute of Peace

Joanne Leedom-Ackerman, moderator Novelist, Short Story Writer and Journalist; Member, International Advisory Council, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/pandemic-year-life-peace-teacher

The Next Chapter in U.S.-Pakistan Relations Jul 09, 2021

On July 7, USIP hosted Dr. Asad Majeed Khan, Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States, to discuss Pakistan’s responses to recent developments in Afghanistan, the future of U.S.-Pakistan relations and emerging regional security challenges in South Asia.

Speakers

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

H.E. Dr. Asad Majeed Khan Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States

Ambassador Richard Olson, moderator Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/next-chapter-us-pakistan-relations

National Dialogues in Peacebuilding and Transitions Jun 28, 2021

USIP and Peace Appeal hosted two panel discussions with the authors of the Institute’s recent report, “National Dialogues in Peacebuilding and Transitions: Creativity and Adaptive Thinking.” The conversations assessed the impacts of six national dialogues in Africa and the Middle East several years after the conclusion of these processes.

The first panel focused on Lebanon, Senegal and Tunisia and examined inclusivity and representation in national dialogues in these countries. The second panel discussed national dialogues in Central African Republic, Kenya and Yemen and reflected on international involvement in these processes. Both panels drew lessons for practitioners and policymakers who are contemplating future national dialogues.

Speakers

Elizabeth Murray, moderator Senior Program Officer, Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Elie Abouaoun Director, Middle East and North Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Penda Ba Associate Professor, Gaston Berger University

Derek Brown Co-Executive Director, Peace Appeal Foundation

Daniel Brumberg Professor and Director, Democracy and Governance Studies, Georgetown University

Erica Gaston Fellow, Global Public Policy Institute

Jimmy Ochieng Consultant, HD Centre

Rachel Sullivan Program Specialist, Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Susan Stigant, moderator Director, Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/national-dialogues-peacebuilding-and-transitions

A Conversation with Iraq’s Planning and Migration Ministers Jun 25, 2021

On June 24, 2021, Iraq’s Minister of Planning Khalid Najim and Minister of Migration and Displacement Evan Jabro joined USIP to discuss the current situation and challenges to stabilization, reconstruction and reform efforts in Iraq. The discussion also shed light on the status of Iraq’s displaced communities and recent returnees — including ethnic and religious minorities and those at al-Hol camp — as well as the Iraqi government’s plans for the future.

Speakers

Michael Yaffe, opening remarks Vice President, Middle East and North Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Minister Khalid Batal Najm Minister of Planning of the Republic of Iraq

Minister Evan Faeq Jabro Minister of Migration and Displacement of the Republic of Iraq

Sarhang Hamasaeed, moderator Director, Middle East Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/conversation-iraqs-planning-and-migration-ministers

Iraqi Minorities’ Views on the Possibilities for Peace and Stability Jun 22, 2021

On June 17, USIP hosted a discussion on the latest findings from USIP’s Iraq Conflict and Stabilization Monitoring Framework, which collects data directly from conflict-affected communities across Nineveh province. The conversation shed light on the current reality of Iraq’s ethnic and religious minorities, as well as the challenges to their safe and sustainable return, signs of progress and the implications of Iraq’s upcoming national elections in October. This event was livestreamed in English and Arabic.

Speakers

Mike Yaffe, opening remarks Vice President, Middle East and North Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Osama Gharizi Senior Program Advisor, Iraq, U.S. Institute of Peace

Negina Sawez Team Lead, Middle East and North Africa Programs, State Department Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor

Adad Youssef Chairman, Board of Directors, Alliance of Iraqi Minorities

Sarhang Hamasaeed, moderator Director, Middle East Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/iraqi-minorities-views-possibilities-peace-and-stability

Disability-Inclusive Peacebuilding Jun 22, 2021

On June 16, USIP, the Harvard Law School Project on Disability and their fellow co-sponsors hosted a conversation on the gaps and opportunities in disability-inclusive peacebuilding and steps for the greater inclusion and participation of people with disabilities. This event was an official side event to the 2021 Conference of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Speakers

Professor Michael Stein, welcoming remarks Visiting Professor of Law, Harvard Law School; Executive Director, Harvard Law School Project on Disability

Gerard Quinn, introductory remarks U.N. Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Rashad Nimr Conflict Advisor (Contractor), Youth and Social Inclusion, USAID Center for Conflict and Violence Prevention

Fon Dieudonne National Coordinator, Think Big Association

Emina Ćerimović Senior Researcher on Disability Rights, Human Rights Watch

Professor Janet E. Lord Advisor to U.N. Special Rapporteur Gerard Quinn; Senior Fellow, Harvard Law School Project on Disability

Charlotte McClain-Nhlapo, co-moderator Global Disability Advisor, World Bank

Elizabeth Murray, co-moderator Senior Program Officer, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/disability-inclusive-peacebuilding

Religious Discrimination During Crises: A Global Perspective Jun 17, 2021

On June 14, USIP, along with the University of Notre Dame's Keough School of Global Affairs and its Ansari Institute for Global Engagement, took a closer look at the complex social, political, economic and religious factors that fuel discrimination towards religious minority communities during periods of political uncertainty. Panelists discussed cross-national trends identified through the USAID-USIP Closing the Gap project, as well as recent events in Myanmar and Iraq. They will also examined anti-Semitism in a global context. And finally, this conversation considered lessons from the U.S. context and explore policy interventions for reducing tensions and promoting peace.

Speakers

Mahan Mirza, opening remarks Executive Director, Ansari Institute for Global Engagement with Religion, University of Notre Dame

Sabrina Dent Senior Faith Advisor, Americans United for Separation of Church and State

Billy Ford Program Officer, Burma, U.S. Institute of Peace

Knox Thames Senior Fellow, Institute of Global Engagement

Jason Klocek, moderator Senior Researcher, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/religious-discrimination-during-crises-global-perspective

Peace and Conflict Diplomacy in a Turbulent World Jun 17, 2021

On June 10, USIP hosted a conversation with several of the book’s leading authors and other experts on the project’s findings and its implications for the practice of peace and conflict diplomacy. Panelists debated how to adapt our diplomatic strategies to shape a more effective, agile and inclusive system of international cooperation, as well as considered how to make room for diverse voices — including regional organizations and civil society — while maintaining a sense of unity and common purpose.

Speakers

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Chester Crocker, introductory remarks James R. Schlesinger Professor of Strategic Studies, Georgetown University

Ambassador George Moose, moderator Vice Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ambassador Barbara Bodine Director, Institute for the Study of Diplomacy; Distinguished Professor in the Practice of Diplomacy, Georgetown University

Ambassador Jean-Marie Guéhenno Distinguished Fellow, Foreign Policy, Brookings Institution

Dr. Fen Hampson Chancellor’s Professor, Carleton University; President, World Refugee and Migration Council

Dr. See Seng Tan Professor of International Relations, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies

Dr. Solomon Dersso Founding Director, Amani Africa; Chairperson, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights

Pamela Aall, closing remarks Senior Advisor, Conflict Prevention and Management, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/peace-and-conflict-diplomacy-turbulent-world

Global Trends 2040: Navigating A More Contested World Jun 17, 2021

On June 9, USIP hosted a timely conversation, moderated by Ambassador George Moose, with the lead author of “Global Trends 2040,” from the National Intelligence Council as well as a panel of global leaders and scholars from across the national security, development and private sectors. Panelists evaluated the findings from this year's report and consider how a range of actors can harness these trends to shape a more secure and prosperous future.

Speakers

Lise Grande,opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Avril Haines, video message Director of National Intelligence

Maria Langan-Riekhof, framing remarks Director Strategic Futures Group, National Intelligence Council

Kamissa Camara Former Foreign Minister, Mali and Visiting Senior Expert, U.S. Institute of Peace

General F. Carter Ham (USA, Ret.) President and CEO, Association of the United States Army and former Commander, U.S. Africa Command

David Miliband President and CEO, International Rescue Committee; Former Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, UK

Ambassador George Moose, moderator Vice Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/global-trends-2040-navigating-more-contested-world

Leaving Boko Haram Behind Jun 04, 2021

Operation Safe Corridor (OSC), Nigeria’s national rehabilitation and reintegration program for members of Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa who have surrendered, defected or were repentant, remains among the most mature and large-scale disengagement programs that currently exist.

In a recently released report, USAID’s Office of Transition Initiatives details unique findings on OSC’s demobilization, disassociation, reintegration and reconciliation effort. Drawing from data collected from OSC graduates, communities where reintegration is occurring and other sources, the report provides key programming and policy insights on the individual and community impact of rehabilitation and reintegration of armed actors from violent extremist organizations.

Join USIP, the report’s authors and experts on Nigeria and violent extremism to discuss these timely, policy-relevant findings about what it really takes for armed actors to leave terrorism behind. The conversation will look at ways to better understand policy-relevant trends like the risks of recidivism, explore effective predictors of support for violence, and uncover how community members actually view reintegratees.

Speakers

MaryAnne Iwara Jennings Randolph Senior Fellow, U.S. Institute of Peace

Nikki Milnes M&E Advisor, USAID/OTI

Dean Piedmont Senior Reintegration and Armed Group Advisor, Creative Associates International

Oge Onubogu,moderator Director, West Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/leaving-boko-haram-behind

Crisis in Mozambique: Pathways to Peace in Cabo Delgado May 14, 2021

On May 13, 2021, USIP hosted a panel of experts for a look at the complex social, political and economic factors fueling the current insurgency in Mozambique, as well as a discussion of potential avenues for intervention to increase peace and stability in Cabo Delgado.

Speakers

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Cidia Chissungo Activist; Founder, National Solidarity Campaign for Cabo Delgado

Gregory Pirio President, Empowering Communications Associates; Senior Adjunct Professorial Lecturer, School of International Service, American University

Ambassador Carlos dos Santos Ambassador of the Republic of Mozambique to the United States

Joseph Sany, moderator Vice President, Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/crisis-mozambique-pathways-peace-cabo-delgado

Nonviolent Action and Minority Inclusion May 14, 2021

This USIP event featured lessons learned from cutting-edge research showing how nonviolent action affects political and economic inequality — particularly for historically excluded social and ethnic groups — using a cross-national statistical study and in-depth case studies from recent political transitions in Nepal and Indonesia. The research also specifically examines how movements can employ dialogue, negotiation and mediation to better ensure that political transitions following nonviolent action campaigns lead to greater inclusion for marginalized groups. This event explored the important implications for both policy and practice in ensuring more inclusive democratization processes in the aftermath of nonviolent action.

Speakers

Jonathan Pinckney, moderator Senior Researcher, Nonviolent Action, U.S. Institute of Peace

Mohna Ansari Member, National Human Rights Commission of Nepal

Subindra Bogati Founder and Chief Executive, Nepal Peacebuilding Initiative

Titik Firawati Ph.D. Candidate in Political Science, Northern Illinois University

Rosa Emilia Salamanca Director, Institute for Social and Economic Research and Action

Deepak Thapa Director, Social Science Baha

Ches Thurber Assistant Professor, Northern Illinois University

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/nonviolent-action-and-minority-inclusion

Enhancing U.S.-China Strategic Stability in an Era of Strategic Competition Apr 30, 2021

On April 28, USIP launched a new report featuring essays from leading American and Chinese security experts on the challenges and opportunities associated with strengthening U.S.-China strategic stability. This event featured a discussion with six of the report’s authors regarding the perception gaps and drivers of U.S.-China conflict in the nuclear, missile, space, cyber, and emerging technologies realms. The authors offered recommendations on steps the United States and China can take in the near term to enhance strategic stability.

Speakers

Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Patricia Kim, moderator Senior Policy Analyst, China, U.S. Institute of Peace

Jinghua Lyu Northeast Asia Program Director, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue

Bruce MacDonald Adjunct Professor, School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University

Haotian Qi Assistant Professor, School of International Studies, Peking University

Brad Roberts Director, Center for Global Security Research, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

Tong Zhao Senior Fellow, Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/enhancing-us-china-strategic-stability-era-strategic-competition

The Climate Challenges of South Asia’s Megacities Apr 28, 2021

Please join USIP for a discussion on the growing stress faced by urban centers in South Asia due to climate change. Experts will discuss how megacities are contributing to environmental degradation and societal conflict, as well as address what policies might best combat these challenges and reflect on President Biden’s latest climate change summit.

Panelists

Aditya Bahadur Principal Researcher, Human Settlements Group, International Institute for Environment and Development (India)

Sara Hayat Environmental Lawyer and Asia Foundation Fellow (Pakistan)

Huraera Jabeen Consultant, World Bank (Bangladesh)

Jumaina Siddiqui, moderator Senior Program Officer, South Asia, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/climate-challenges-south-asias-megacities

Quiet on the Line of Control: Progress in India-Pakistan Relations? Apr 26, 2021

On April 23, 2021, USIP hosted a discussion on what the recent thaw between India and Pakistan reveals about each country’s strategic thinking, the region’s overarching security concerns, and opportunities for the United States to encourage confidence building and crisis management even if peace remains elusive.

Speakers

Madiha Afzal Rubenstein Fellow, Foreign Policy, The Brookings Institution

Tanvi Madan Senior Fellow, Foreign Policy, Brookings Institution

Shuja Nawaz Distinguished Fellow, South Asia, Atlantic Council

Ashley Tellis Tata Chair for Strategic Affairs, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Tamanna Salikuddin, moderator Director, South Asia, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/quiet-line-control-progress-india-pakistan-relations

Civil Resistance Transitions: Dialogue, Trust and Democracy Apr 21, 2021

Featuring new USIP research on the crucial role of inclusive dialogue and negotiation processes, this event looked at the characteristics of peace processes that most successfully foster citizen trust in a renewed social compact and long-term sustainable democratization. The discussion also provided key insights and recommendations for activists and external peacebuilding actors working to ensure successful dialogue and foster democratic outcomes — as well as how to apply those insights and recommendations in on-the-ground cases.

Speakers

Zied Boussen Tunisian Activist and Researcher

Veronique Dudouet Senior Research Advisor, Berghof Foundation

Zahra Hayder Sudanese Activist and Organizer

Roman-Gabriel Olar Assistant Professor, Trinity College Dublin

Jonathan Pinckney Senior Researcher, Nonviolent Action, U.S. Institute of Peace

Lise Grande, moderator President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

The Nexus of Climate Change, Fragility, and Peacebuilding Apr 15, 2021

On April 13, USIP and the Wilson Center hosted a timely discussion with experts on the linkages between climate and fragility, and how a more integrated approach to climate and fragility policies and responses can simultaneously strengthen resilience outcomes and minimize threats to peace and prosperity.

Speakers

Joe Hewitt, introductory remarks Vice President, Policy, Learning, and Strategy, U.S. Institute of Peace

Cynthia Brady, moderator Global Fellow, Woodrow Wilson Center

Dina Esposito Vice President of Technical Leadership, Mercy Corps

Alice Hill David M. Rubenstein Senior Fellow for Energy and the Environment, Council on Foreign Relations Former Senior Director, Resilience Policy, National Security Council

Liz Hume Acting President and CEO, Alliance for Peacebuilding

Erin Sikorsky Deputy Director, The Center for Climate and Security Former Deputy Director, Strategic Futures Group, National Intelligence Council

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/nexus-climate-change-fragility-and-peacebuilding

Pakistan’s Post-Pandemic Economic Outlook Apr 08, 2021

On April 6, USIP hosted a discussion that assessed the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Pakistani economy, explored the outlook for reforms, and surveyed how international investors, especially U.S. companies, view the Pakistani economy and investment prospects.

Speakers:

Khurram Husain Economic writer, Dawn

Safiya Ghori-Ahmed Director, McLarty Associates

Naila Naqvi CEO, Pie in the Sky

Uzair Younus, moderator Visiting Senior Policy Analyst, South Asia Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/pakistans-post-pandemic-economic-outlook

Nonviolent Action and Civil War Peace Processes Mar 31, 2021

To better understand the intersections of nonviolent action and peacebuilding processes, USIP convened experts for the second in a series of four events on people power, peace, and democracy. The event series highlights multiple groundbreaking research projects and feature insights from activists and international practitioners and policymakers to provide viewers with actionable takeaways. This event presented new research from USIP that explores effective strategies for civilian nonviolent action amid civil war and offers lessons learned for activists working to achieve their goals in conflict-affected environments — as well as for policymakers and donors to aid peace processes and achieve sustainable peace.

Panelists

Jonathan Pinckney, moderator Senior Researcher, Nonviolent Action, U.S. Institute of Peace

Jacob Bul Bior Cofounder and Media Coordinator, Anataban Arts Initiative

Luke Abbs Researcher, BLG Data Research Centre, University of Essex

Esra Cuhadar Senior Expert, Dialogue and Peace Processes, U.S. Institute of Peace

Marina Petrova Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Università Bocconi Waheed Zaheer Journalist and Peacebuilding Trainer

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/nonviolent-action-and-civil-war-peace-processes

Empowered Women Help Create a More Peaceful World Mar 31, 2021

USIP and the Department of Defense hosted a discussion on the military’s progress and commitment to implementing the WPS agenda in their operations. To inform and strengthen engagement between the U.S. government and civil society organizations, the discussion also included key questions from the U.S. Civil Society Working Group on WPS (USCSWG).

Speakers: Lise Grande, welcoming remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace

Kathleen H. Hicks Deputy Secretary of Defense

Admiral Craig S. Faller Commander, United States Southern Command, U.S. Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Thomas A. Bussiere Deputy Commander, United States Strategic Command, U.S. Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Michael A. Minihan Deputy Commander, United States Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Department of Defense

Ambassador Andrew Young Deputy to the Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, Africa Command, U.S. Department of State

Brigadier General Rebecca J. Sonkiss Deputy Director for Counter Threats and International Cooperation on the Joint Staff, J5, U.S. Department of Defense

Valerie Hudson Distinguished Professor and George H.W. Bush Chair, Texas A&M University

Kathleen Kuehnast, moderator Director, Gender Policy and Strategy, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/empowered-women-help-create-more-peaceful-world

Peacebuilding on the Korean Peninsula: U.S. and European Perspectives Mar 25, 2021

On March 23, USIP and the Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy at the Brussels School of Governance convened a panel discussion looking at U.S. and European perspectives on achieving peace and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula—and whether similar processes in other regions provide any helpful lessons.

Speakers:

Frank Aum Senior Expert, North Korea, U.S. Institute of Peace

Tongfi Kim Senior Researcher, KF-VUB Korea Chair, Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy, Brussels School of Governance

Linde Desmaele PhD Researcher, Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy, Brussels School of Governance

Joseph Yun Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ramon Pacheco Pardo, moderator KF-VUB Korea Chair, Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy, Brussels School of Governance

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/peacebuilding-korean-peninsula-us-and-european-perspectives

In a Consequential Year for Iraq, What’s Next? Mar 25, 2021

On March 23, USIP hosted a discussion of key developments in Iraq and the outlook for U.S.-Iraq relations under the Biden administration. The panel shared their insights on the Pope’s first-ever visit to Iraq, examined the country’s current challenges, and explored areas where policymakers and the international community can support Iraq.

Speakers

Lise Grande, opening remarks President and CEO, U.S. Institute of Peace Ambassador Matthew Tueller Ambassador of the United States to Iraq Ambassador Fareed Yasseen Ambassador of Iraq to the United States Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman Kurdistan Regional Government Representative to the United States Sarhang Hamasaeed, moderator Director, Middle East Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Fore more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/consequential-year-iraq-whats-next

Can Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Deliver Peace? Mar 19, 2021

On March 18, 2021, USIP and the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University hosted a timely discussion on how applying the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion can contribute to more effective U.S. peace and development programs around the world. Panelists considered efforts to meaningfully engage marginalized or underrepresented groups such as women, youth, and social movement actors to support locally driven peacebuilding.

Speakers:

Corinne Graff, introductory remarks Senior Advisor, Conflict Prevention and Fragility, U.S. Institute of Peace

Susanna Campbell Assistant Professor, School of International Service, American University

Rosa Emilia Salamanca Executive Director, Corporación de Investigación y Acción Social y Económica (CIASE) in Colombia

Jennifer Hawkins Senior Women, Peace, and Security Advisor, U.S. Agency for International Development

Joseph Sany Vice President, Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

Pamina Firchow, moderator Associate Professor of Conflict Resolution and Coexistence, Brandeis University

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/can-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-deliver-peace

Lessons from the Four Party Peace Talks on the Korean Peninsula Mar 19, 2021

On March 17, 2021, USIP hosted a discussion on the Four Party Talks, including why the United States decided to propose these talks after 40 years of disengaging from North Korea, why the talks failed, and what lessons these talks may have for future attempts at peace discussions. The event included a panel of three leading Korea experts who served as part of the U.S. delegation during the Four Party Talks.

Speakers:

Frank Aum, moderator Senior Expert, North Korea, U.S. Institute of Peace

Robert Carlin Nonresident Fellow, Stimson Center; former Chief of the Northeast Asia Division, Bureau of Intelligence and Research, Department of State

Philip Yun President and Chief Executive Officer, World Affairs Council of Northern California; former Senior Policy Advisor for the Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia, Department of State

Chip Gregson Senior Advisor, Avascent International; former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of Defense

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/lessons-four-party-peace-talks-korean-peninsula

Mediation in Nonviolent Action Campaigns Mar 17, 2021

In part one of our series on People Power, Peace, and Democracy, this event highlighted new research that explores the role of third-party mediation in nonviolent uprisings. The conversation provided key insights for both practitioners and policymakers by focusing on central aspects of mediation processes, such as the strategies of mediators and their relationships with conflicting parties—as well as examining how they can lead to agreements between governments and nonviolent movements.

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/mediation-nonviolent-action-campaigns

Gender Dynamics in Conflict-Affected Middle East and North African Countries Mar 12, 2021

On March 12, USIP and American University in the Emirates hosted a virtual discussion that aimed to better understand gender dynamics in conflict by convening experts in the field and sharing the lessons learned from initiatives that build the resilience of women during war and throughout post-war recovery.

Speakers

Muthanna Abdul Razzaq, opening remarks President and CEO, American University in the Emirates

Dr. Elie Abouaoun Director, Middle East and North Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Susan Aref Director and Founder, Women Empowerment Organization (Iraq)

Mehrinaz El Awady Director of Gender Justice, Population, and Inclusive Development, U.N. Economics and Social Commission for West Asia

Kathleen Kuehnast Director, Gender Policy and Strategy, U.S. Institute of Peace

Valentine M. Moghadam Professor of Sociology and International Affairs, Northeastern University

Nahla Yassine-Hamdan Assistant Professor, College of Security and Global Studies, American University in the Emirates

Lina Beydoun, moderator Director of Development, American University of Cairo (AUC)

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/gender-dynamics-conflict-affected-middle-east-and-north-african-countries

The Voices of South Sudan’s Women Mar 11, 2021

In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8, USIP, Oxfam International, and FEMRITE—the Ugandan Women Writers Association—hosted a discussion about how women’s literary voices can contribute to building a deeper understanding of the impact of conflict in South Sudan and inspire progress toward peace.

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/voices-south-sudans-women

Note: The audio recording of Birth Water by Bigoa Chuol herein is courtesy of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

COVID-19 and Cooperation in Libya Mar 05, 2021

On March 4, USIP hosted Libya’s ambassador to the United States and Libyan civil society leaders for a look at stories of positive community cooperation during the current crisis—as well as a discussion on how Libyan and international organizations can build off these successes to navigate Libya’s complex conflict and ensure a peaceful future for the country.

Security Challenges in Africa: 2021 and Beyond Feb 25, 2021

Countering Violent Extremism by Refocusing on Communities

On February 24, 2021, USIP hosted an event with the RESOLVE Network and the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) that examined the role of non-state actors and local communities in preventing the spread of violent extremism. Drawing on research from RESOLVE’s Africa portfolio and ISS’s research, leading experts offered alternative pathways for conflict resolution that account for local peacebuilding challenges—as well as considered the pivotal role of women in community-based justice, conflict resolution, and the rule of law.

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/security-challenges-africa-2021-and-beyond

The Building Blocks of Civil Society in North Korea Feb 24, 2021

On February 23, 2021, USIP hosted a discussion on a new report published by the National Committee on North Korea and the broader implications of market participation on North Korean society. The report’s authors were joined by leading experts on the Korean Peninsula and civil society to discuss how market participation has fostered the beginnings of a public sphere and how linkages between market activities and the building blocks of civil society may help promote the rights and livelihoods of the North Korean people—and shift the ideological framework through which the state must operate.

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/building-blocks-civil-society-north-korea

Afghanistan Study Group Releases Final Report Feb 04, 2021

USIP hosted the co-chairs of the Afghanistan Study Group for a discussion of the group’s findings and the report’s recommendations for how the United States can fully align our policies, practices, and messaging across diplomatic, military, and assistance efforts toward the overarching goal of achieving a successful peace in Afghanistan.

Passing the Baton 2021: Securing America’s Future Together Feb 01, 2021

For the past 20 years, the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) has convened national security leaders after every change in administration to affirm the peaceful transfer of power and the bipartisan character of American foreign policy through its signature Passing the Baton event.

30 Years Later: German Reunification Revisited Jan 28, 2021

While the fall of the Berlin Wall is now celebrated as a symbol of the end of the Cold War, the immediate aftermath was a tumultuous period which could easily have resulted in chaos and conflict. The remarkable diplomatic efforts that reunified Germany offered a blueprint for nations to pursue a shared vision of a Europe whole and free and at peace with Russia as a partner, not an adversary.

Defiance and Democracy: Understanding the Thai Protest Movement Jan 21, 2021

USIP held a discussion on the underlying political dynamics that are driving this current movement—as well as a look at the tactics the protestors have deployed to mobilize in Thailand’s restrictive environment, where the protest movement may go from here, and how the U.S. government might constructively respond.

China's Influence on Conflict Dynamics in South Asia Dec 16, 2020

The co-chairs and members of the Senior Study Group joined to discuss their work and the report’s conclusions. The conversation will tackle topics such as U.S. interests in South Asia amid China’s growing role, Beijing’s interests in and approach toward the region, China-Pakistan relations, China-India relations, and China’s relations with the smaller South Asian states.

Vanishing Media Freedoms Across South Asia Dec 15, 2020

USIP hosted distinguished journalists from the region to shed light on the challenges of the past year, share personal insights from the ground, and discuss what we can expect from South Asian governments and media outlets going forward.

Deadly Conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State: New Pathways to Peace? Dec 11, 2020

USIP launched two publications—"Why Burma’s Peace Efforts have Failed to End its Internal Wars” and “The Arakan Army in Myanmar: Deadly Conflict Rises in Rakhine State”—which explore the implications of the deadly conflict in Rakhine State, as well as possible new directions for ending Myanmar’s internal wars.

How Movements Fight Corruption Dec 09, 2020

USIP held a discussion on citizen and movement efforts, including those in Guatemala, Ukraine, and Zimbabwe. This event featured activists, scholars of nonviolent action, and international donors to explore the various ways bottom-up pressure can be used to make governments more open, hold leaders accountable, and prevent and curb corruption.

Five Years Later: UNSCR 2250 on Youth, Peace, and Security Dec 09, 2020

USIP held a discussion with the co-chair of the Global Coalition on Youth, Peace, and Security and two youth peacebuilders as they reflected on the tangible progress that has been made on the YPS agenda since the passage of Resolution 2250, as well as the challenges to effective implementation of the agenda around the world.

Pandemics, Peace, and Justice: Shaping What Comes Next Dec 09, 2020

For the last eight years, the annual PeaceCon conference has offered a dynamic platform for frontline peacebuilders, policymakers, philanthropists, and private sector and civil society leaders working at the nexus of peacebuilding, security, and development to engage in meaningful dialogue and develop substantive plans for action. This year’s conference—with the theme “Pandemics, Peace, and Justice: Shaping What Comes Next”— explored the relationship between justice and peacebuilding in the context of COVID-19 and the worldwide reckoning over systemic injustice and racism.

Hinge of History: Governance in an Emerging New World Dec 04, 2020

With rapid technological change, shifting global demographics, and tectonic geopolitical shifts, the world faces an inflection point—where the choices that leaders make in the coming years will have profound implications for generations. In response to this moment, former Secretary of State George P. Shultz organized a project at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution called Hinge of History: Governance in an Emerging World to explore what these shifts mean for global democracy, economies, and security.

Contested Waters: Flashpoints for Conflict in Asia Dec 04, 2020

USIP held a virtual discussion on the future of water conflict and water diplomacy. Environmental peacebuilding experts and activists from Burma, India, and Pakistan discussed the strategies they use to mitigate water conflict risks in their countries, as well as examine insights from a new USIP report, “Water Conflict Pathways and Peacebuilding Strategies,” that may help develop early warning indicators for emerging water-based conflicts.

RESOLVE Network 2020 Global Forum Nov 24, 2020

The RESOLVE Network and USIP held a discussion about these challenges and more during part one of RESOLVE’s fifth annual Global Forum series. Convened virtually, the forum brought together leading experts and researchers for thought-provoking conversations on evolving trends and dynamics in the violent extremist landscape.

The Nine Lives of Pakistan: A Discussion with Declan Walsh Nov 24, 2020

USIP hosted Declan Walsh for a discussion of his new book, “The Nine Lives of Pakistan: Dispatches from a Divided Nation,” which analyzes the complexities of the country’s power dynamics, ethnic and religious conflicts, and identity crisis through the lens of nine individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Kyrgyzstan's Unfinished "Revolution" Oct 29, 2020

USIP held a discussion of the ongoing situation in Kyrgyzstan and its implications for peace and stability in Central Asia. The conversation examined how organized crime, youth mobilization, social media, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have factored into the crisis. The discussion also analyzed how the United States and the region, including Kyrgyzstan’s Central Asian neighbors and Russia, are assessing and responding to the developments.

Russia’s War in Donbas: Ripe for a Resolution? Oct 20, 2020

USIP hosted prominent experts and policymakers for a discussion on possible solutions for resolving the ongoing conflict. The event examined the current status of peace negotiations, as well as what a settlement might look like, the war’s political and social consequences and how COVID-19 has exacerbated its effects, and how regional dynamics—including instability in neighboring Belarus—have the potential to influence Ukraine's security situation.

Women Transforming Peace Oct 20, 2020

USIP and the U.S. Civil Society Working Group on Women, Peace and Security joined to mark the 20th anniversary of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1325. The discussion examined how countries are expanding on the Women, Peace and Security agenda by adopting feminist foreign policy frameworks.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Local Peacebuilding in the Middle East Oct 14, 2020

USIP and the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) joined for a panel discussion featuring peacebuilding experts and practitioners from the Middle East. The online conversation will look at the implications of COVID-19 on peacebuilding at the local level in three particular Middle Eastern contexts—Yemen, Syria, and Iraq.

What Do Africans Think About the Continent’s Future? Oct 14, 2020

USIP and Afrobarometer joined for a first look at Afrobarometer’s latest survey research and results, as well as a discussion on how the data can help guide U.S. government policy in Africa and provide key insights for policymakers on trends and potential threats to peace and security in Africa.

The Fallout of the War in Syria Sep 28, 2020

USIP held an in-depth presentation and discussion of the World Bank’s new publication, “The Fallout of War: The Regional Consequences of the Conflict in Syria.” The panel included the report’s lead author as well as regional experts who provided insight on the economic and social effects that the Syrian conflict has had on its neighbors.

The Catholic Church and Peacebuilding Sep 24, 2020

USIP hosted an event that explored how and where the Catholic Church is able—or has the potential—to effectively support peace processes and people power movements by operating at the grassroots, engaging at the formal level, and liaising in between.

The Beginning of an End to Afghanistan’s Conflict? Sep 24, 2020

USIP hosted a discussion with U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad. Since his appointment in September 2018, Special Representative Khalilzad has brokered the U.S.-Taliban agreement, enlisted regional support for a peace process, and worked with both sides to get them to the negotiating table.

COVID-19 and Cease-fires: What Have We Learned? Sep 24, 2020

USIP had a timely discussion on the strategies needed to pursue effective cease-fires in conflict zones. Drawing from recent reports, including the recent USIP publication “Searching for COVID-19 Cease-fires: Conflict Zone Impacts, Needs, and Opportunities,” panelists considered the correlation between political willpower and conflict resolution, how the secretary-general’s cease-fire appeal was perceived on the ground in conflict zones, and whether international pressure could make a difference in advancing the secretary-general’s call.

Ecological Threats to Peace Sep 22, 2020

USIP and the Institute for Economics and Peace joined together for a look at the inaugural Ecological Threat Register, as experts explore the nexus between conflict and climate change and consider strategies for boosting resilience to climate-induced insecurity.

India’s Foreign Policy Outlook: An Inflection Point? Sep 17, 2020

USIP hosted one of India’s foremost diplomats and scholars, former Foreign Secretary and former Ambassador to both China and the United States Nirupama Rao, for a candid conversation that explored how Indian leaders are managing challenges in the Indo-Pacific and what we may expect from Indian foreign policy going forward.

Toward Never Again: U.S. Leadership in Atrocity Prevention Sep 17, 2020

USIP and the State Department’s Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations discussed institutionalizing “never again,” and interagency efforts to prevent, mitigate, and respond to atrocity risks.

A New Direction for U.S. Policy on North Korea Sep 10, 2020

USIP convened experts to discuss what Washington has done right and wrong on North Korea and what new strategies and options the next administration should consider in dealing practically with North Korea to make real progress.

ASEAN Faces the Future Sep 03, 2020

USIP and the Lee Kwan Yew School of Public Policy joined for a virtual discussion on the upcoming forum and ASEAN’s role in building peace and resilience in Southeast Asia, featuring findings from USIP’s newly published report, “Built for Trust, Not for Conflict: ASEAN Faces the Future.”

A Conversation with Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Mohammed Haneef Atmar Aug 28, 2020

USIP hosted Minister Atmar for a virtual discussion about the Afghanistan peace process as talks with the Taliban get set to begin. The foreign minister spoke about the Afghan government’s ongoing efforts for peace and stability, as well as the role of the regional and international community in supporting peace efforts.

A Conversation with Iraq’s Foreign and Migration Ministers Aug 24, 2020

USIP held a two-part discussion with Iraq’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein and Minister of Migration and Displacement Evan Faeq Jabro.

The Kashmir Conflict: A Year of Tumult Aug 24, 2020

USIP had a conversation with the authors, focused on the tensions between India and Pakistan and prospects for resolving the bilateral dispute, as well as the domestic Kashmiri resistance and both the violent and non-violent movements within Kashmir that may challenge Indian attempts to reshape Kashmir’s status.

Sri Lanka’s Parliamentary Elections Aug 18, 2020

USIP convened experts to unpack the conduct and results of the elections, examine the nature and shape of the new parliament and discuss how it bodes for the future of democracy, rule of law, and intercommunal harmony in Sri Lanka.

Drug Trafficking and Use in Libya and North Africa Aug 14, 2020

USIP and the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) presented recently published research on drug issues in the region. USIP experts discussed their research on drug trafficking and consumption in Libya, while GI-TOC experts will analyze trends in the Maghreb as a whole.

How ISIS Really Ends Aug 13, 2020

USIP hosted CENTCOM Commander General Kenneth McKenzie and other experts for a discussion on the challenges of the post-ISIS landscape across Syria and Iraq, as well as the military’s role working alongside diplomacy and development to achieve the enduring defeat of ISIS and long-term stabilization.

Conflict, COVID and Compassion Aug 12, 2020

As the world navigates the COVID-19 pandemic, rising conflict, and growing demands for justice, the need for individual, societal, and international compassion and resilience has never been more urgent. Tune in as His Holiness the Dalai Lama, USIP President and CEO Nancy Lindborg, and Generation Change Fellows discuss these issues on the eve of International Youth Day.

Coronavirus and the Conflict in Syria Aug 04, 2020

USIP convened an expert panel discussion on the impacts of COVID-19 in Syria. The panel featured field-based medical practitioners who provided on-the-ground insight on the pandemic’s effects in northern Syria, specifically among displaced populations within Syria.

From Dissent to Democracy Aug 03, 2020

Join USIP as we host activists and scholars of nonviolent resistance for a discussion of the book’s broader lessons on how to support democratization efforts around the world. The conversation will explore new insights into the intersection of democratization and nonviolent resistance, as well as actionable recommendations for activists and policymakers working toward democratic transitions.

Advancing International Religious Freedom Jul 28, 2020

USIP hosted the honorary co-chairs of the National Prayer Breakfast, Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI) and Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY). As two of the leading advocates for religious freedom in the world, the congressmen will share their experiences advancing issues of international religious freedom in Congress and abroad.

Afghanistan's Peaceful Future: Support from Central Asia Jul 27, 2020

USIP hosted Ambassadors Roya Rahmani of Afghanistan, Javlon Vakhavbov of Uzbekistan, and Erzhan Kazykhanov of Kazakhstan for a virtual discussion on how the peace process can improve opportunities for greater regional connectivity and stability around areas of mutual interest, including security, trade, and transit. U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad will also provide remarks on the important role of Central Asia in the Afghan peace process.

Sino-Indian Escalation: Blip or Lasting Strategic Shift? Jul 21, 2020

USIP convened an expert panel on the Sino-Indian border clash and its implications for regional and global security. The discussion examined whether this conflict signals an emboldened shift in China’s posture toward disputed borders elsewhere, how this rivalry affects existing India-Pakistan tensions and other border disputes, and what the implications are for the United States and its allies as they push back on perceived Chinese aggression.

Congressional Perspectives on U.S.-China Relations Jul 09, 2020

USIP hosted the co-chairs of the U.S.-China Working Group, Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) and Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL), for a conversation that explored key issues facing the U.S.-China relationship, shifting views in Congress on the topic, and the role of Congress in managing rising tensions and facilitating engagement between the two countries.

The Rule of Law in Afghanistan Jul 02, 2020

USIP and WJP hosted an in-depth conversation on the findings of the World Justice Project's report “The Rule of Law in Afghanistan: Key Findings 2019,” as well as crucial factors for the rule of law in Afghanistan. Panelists will also discuss how the report can encourage data-driven policy choices and guide program development to strengthen the rule of law.

Where Do Iraq’s Religious and Ethnic Minorities Stand Post-ISIS? Jul 02, 2020

USIP hosted Assistant Secretary Robert A. Destro from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL), as well as a panel of experts, for a discussion on the current reality for Iraqi religious and ethnic minorities, the international response in the aftermath of ISIS’s military defeat, and the impact of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the new Iraqi government, and potential early elections. The event also featured analysis from USIP based on its Conflict and Stabilization Monitoring Framework.

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/where-do-iraqs-religious-and-ethnic-minorities-stand-post-isis

H.E. Abdullah Abdullah Discusses Peace Talks in Afghanistan Jun 25, 2020

USIP was pleased to host Dr. Abdullah for his first public event as chairman of the newly established High Council for National Reconciliation. Dr. Abdullah discussed preparations for negotiations with the Taliban, the key issues that need to be addressed, and what can be done to strengthen national unity and consensus on peace. His address was followed by a live question and answer session.

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/he-abdullah-abdullah-discusses-peace-talks-afghanistan

COVID in South Asia: Regional Responses Jun 18, 2020

USIP and experts from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka discussed states' responses to the coronavirus pandemic across the region and what countries can do to maintain and restore their economies, health systems, and citizens’ trust in elected officials.

Speakers

Amb. Tariq Karim Former Bangladeshi Ambassador to the U.S. Amb. Maleeha Lodhi Former Pakistani Ambassador to the U.S. and former Pakistani Ambassador to the U.N. Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Alternatives, Sri Lanka Amb. Arun Singh Former Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Tamanna Salikuddin, moderator Director, South Asia, U.S. Institute of Peace

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/covid-south-asia-regional-responses

Harnessing Coronavirus for a Peaceful and Prosperous Africa Jun 12, 2020

USIP, representatives of the African Union Commission and the African Diplomatic Corps, and other experts discussed the African Union’s efforts to mobilize the fight against coronavirus while still alleviating threats to human security and international peace.

Panelists discussed how COVID-19 is impacting the continent’s social and economic progress, how this year’s Africa Day theme of “Silencing the Guns, Creating Conducive Conditions for Africa’s Development” fits into the current reality, and how the U.S. and Africa can foster a genuine partnership to address shared priorities, concerns, and opportunities during a time of global solidarity.

Speakers

Ambassador Johnnie Carson Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

H.E. Serge Mombouli Ambassador of the Republic of Congo; Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps.

Ambassador Matthew Harrington Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of African Affairs

H.E. Nomaindiya Mfeketo Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa

Ambassador Frederic Gateretse-Ngoga Head of the Conflict Prevention and Early Warning Division at the African Union Commission

H.E. Sidique Abou-Bakarr Wai Ambassador of the Republic of Sierra Leone; Co-Chair of the African Ambassadors’ Committee for Public Affairs

Professor Landry Signé Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution; Professor and Co-Director, Thunderbird School of Global Management

Susan Stigant, moderator Director, Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

https://www.usip.org/events/harnessing-coronavirus-peaceful-and-prosperous-africa

Due to technical issues with our streaming service, the audio quality of this podcast may feature minor anomalies.

Afghanistan’s Vision for Peace: A Conversation with H.E. President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani Jun 12, 2020

On June 11, 2020, the Atlantic Council’s South Asia Center and the United States Institute of Peace hosted a conversation with H.E. President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani on Afghanistan’s vision for peace and how to sustain progress towards stability and prosperity.

Keynote speaker:

H.E. Mohammad Ashraf Ghani President Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Featuring:

Frederick Kempe President and CEO Atlantic Council

Stephen Heintz President and CEO Rockefeller Brothers Fund

Stephen J. Hadley (moderating) Chair, Board of Directors United States Institute of Peace

Nancy Lindborg President and CEO United States Institute of Peace

Understanding Career Foreign Fighters Jun 05, 2020

USIP and authors of the recent RESOLVE Network Research Report, “Career Foreign Fighters: Expertise Transmission Across Insurgencies” hosted a virtual conversation to explain their findings and share insights on the unique challenges that career foreign fighters pose, what we know about their “career” trajectories, their impact in local conflicts, and the implications for current policy and programmatic challenges. They also highlighted recommendations for future efforts to address violent extremism and conflict and to prevent conflict careerists based on their pioneering study.

Speakers

Leanne Erdberg Steadman, introductory remarks Director of VE, USIP and Interim Executive Director, RESOLVE Network

Chelsea Daymon PhD candidate, American University; Associate Fellow, Global Network on Extremism & Technology

David Malet Associate Professor of Public Affairs, American University; RESOLVE Research Advisory Council Member, RESOLVE Network

Jeanine de Roy van Zuijdewijn Researcher, Institute of Security and Global Affairs, Leiden University; Research Fellow, International Centre for Counter-Terrorism – The Hague

Colin P. Clarke, moderator Senior Research Fellow, The Soufan Center; RESOLVE Research Advisory Council Member, RESOLVE Network

https://www.usip.org/events/understanding-career-foreign-fighters

Tenuous Transitions in Ethiopia and Sudan Jun 05, 2020

The two most populous countries in the Horn of Africa—Ethiopia and Sudan—are both struggling with once-in-a-generation political transitions. Complicating these already tenuous transitions is a convergence of worrying trends, such as widespread food insecurity, severe pressure on public finances, ongoing or unresolved internal conflicts, large numbers of displaced persons, and now, the coronavirus pandemic. The fate of the transitions in Ethiopia and Sudan may determine the broader prospects for peace in the region for years to come.

At this critical time in history for the Horn of Africa, USIP brought together experts from Ethiopia and Sudan for a discussion on the specific challenges facing the political transitions in these two countries, as well as key parallels.

Speakers

Manal Taha Sudan Program Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace Payton Knopf Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace Aaron Maasho Independent Journalist Emebet Getachew Ethiopia Country Program Manager, Life and Peace Institute Aly Verjee, moderator Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

https://www.usip.org/events/tenuous-transitions-ethiopia-and-sudan

People Power in a Pandemic May 22, 2020

USIP brought together activists and peacebuilders from South Sudan, Syria, and Venezuela for a discussion on how nonviolent movements are confronting and adjusting to their new operating environments, how they are spreading awareness about the virus and safety measures in their communities, and how they envision the post-coronavirus era in their societies.

The panelists shared how they are maintaining resilience against repression and using opportunities created by the pandemic to advance their demands for peace and justice. The discussion also included external actors offering insights into how international donors can provide support to grassroots groups and movements in ways that help them to respond flexibly to their changing environments and to better meet the needs of their communities.

Pakistan's Coronavirus Crisis: Provincial Perspectives May 15, 2020

USIP convened observers from all four of Pakistan's provinces to discuss each province’s on-the-ground situation related to the Coronavirus pandemic, the various provincial government responses, and what we can expect to see in the coming months.

Conflict and the Pandemic: Tackling COVID-19 in Fragile Settings May 15, 2020

USIP and the World Bank Group examined international efforts to respond to the first- and second-order impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in fragile states. Panelists drew lessons from other recent outbreaks to consider what works in tackling pandemics on the ground in FCV settings, as well as how actors can work together to ensure responses to the COVID-19 crisis do not exacerbate existing drivers of fragility. Additionally, the panel examined how to manage long-term social and economic consequences, including how the COVID-19 response can help lay the foundation for strengthened governance and more effective institutions.

Due to technical issues with our streaming service, the audio quality of this podcast may feature minor anomalies.

China’s Impact on Conflict Dynamics in the Red Sea Arena May 01, 2020

USIP and members of the China-Red Sea Arena Senior Study Group hosted an in-depth look at their new report, featuring discussions on how China’s growing presence has brought infrastructure and economic opportunities to the region, while raising concerns about the sustainability, transparency, and long-term impacts of its engagement on countries in the Horn and the Gulf. The panel discussed recommendations advanced in the report on how Washington should respond to Beijing’s growing economic, diplomatic, and military footprint in the Red Sea arena, and addressed possibilities for cooperation in confronting the COVID-19 pandemic in the region.

Pakistan’s Coronavirus Crisis: Impact and Solutions Apr 24, 2020

In addition to the severe human cost, the COVID-19 crisis has forced Pakistan’s already suffering economy to a grinding halt. Social distancing policies, necessary to stop the spread of the virus, have sent the global economy reeling, paralyzed the informal economy, and left Pakistan’s most vulnerable without income and sustenance. USIP hosted a virtual expert panel to discuss the economic, political, and governance impacts of the COVID-19 crisis in Pakistan as well as potential long-term solutions.

The Path to Intra-Afghan Talks Apr 24, 2020

USIP and members of the Afghan government’s negotiating team held an online discussion on recent developments, the challenges of getting intra-Afghan negotiations underway, and how the country can move closer to a political settlement for the decades-long conflict.

Coronavirus and Conflict: The Security Sector Response Apr 17, 2020

USIP looked at creative solutions for responding to the confluence of coronavirus and conflict. USIP President and CEO Nancy Lindborg shared lessons from her experience responding to Ebola in West Africa and discussed why COVID-19 is a unique challenge to conflict-affected regions. This was followed by a panel discussion with experts from around the world on how security sectors are responding to coronavirus, how local communities are making their voices heard, and what practical interventions we can take now to stem unnecessary suffering later.

Global Trends in the Rule of Law Apr 17, 2020

USIP and the World Justice Project (WJP) delved into the findings from the WJP Rule of Law Index 2020. WJP’s chief research officer reviewed important insights and data trends from the report.

The Impact of Coronavirus on North Korea Apr 17, 2020

USIP hosted an online discussion with experts on the latest information regarding the COVID-19 situation in North Korea, the impact of COVID-19 on North Korea’s isolation vis-à-vis the international sanctions regime, the potential for instability in North Korean society, and the potential for sanctions relief to aid coronavirus response efforts.

Colombian Human Rights Leaders Protect Their Peace Feb 25, 2020

Organized by the Swedish humanitarian agency Diakonia and the ACT Church of Sweden, the Colombian National Prize for the Defense of Human Rights honors social leaders as they continue to defend their communities’ right to security, land, education, health, reparations, and access to justice under the 2016 deal.

Ending Our Endless War in Afghanistan Feb 19, 2020

After over a year of intensive talks, press reports indicate that an official agreement between the U.S. and Taliban is imminent. The agreement reportedly begins with an immediate reduction in violence by all sides, followed by the signing of a U.S.-Taliban agreement. USIP hosted a panel of former U.S. government senior officials to discuss the significance of the reported agreement, the potential for a sustainable and inclusive peace process, and what this latest development means for bringing an end to the eighteen-year war in Afghanistan.

A Changing Ethiopia: Understanding Medemer Feb 13, 2020

During this crucial period of reform and uncertainty in Ethiopia, USIP hosted a distinguished panel including representatives of the Office of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to look at the questions, possibilities, and problems offered by medemer.

North Korea’s Lost Generation Jan 31, 2020

Amid concerns about the North Korean nuclear threat and the dashed hopes for a breakthrough in U.S.-North Korea negotiations, the health and human rights of arguably the most vulnerable victims of the ongoing humanitarian crisis—North Korean children—have been overlooked.

The Future of Multilateral Peacebuilding Jan 30, 2020

USIP, The Stimson Center, Alliance for Peacebuilding, and the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area partnered for a timely discussion on the future of the multilateral system and the potential for practical, innovative reform with U.N. Undersecretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo, the highest-ranking American currently serving at the United Nations and the first woman to hold the position.

Healing Afghanistan Through Art Jan 28, 2020

On January 28, USIP and ArtLords founders Omaid Sharifi and Kabir Mokamel held a conversation on Afghan art, music, and culture and the important role they play in uniting Afghans during this pivotal but uncertain moment in the peace process. Sharifi and Mokamel were joined by artist and activist Hamidullah Natiq for a discussion of their art, activism, and peace.

Pakistan 2020: The Year Ahead Jan 27, 2020

On January 27, USIP convened a group of experts to help decipher Pakistan’s tumultuous landscape and assess the year ahead. This conversation explored several key implications for U.S. policy as well, including the state of civil-military relations following the army chief’s extension, prospects for Pakistan’s economic future and whether early signs may portend a recovery, and the ongoing challenges posed by the situation in Kashmir.

Disengaging from Violent Extremism Jan 23, 2020

USIP kicked off our VEDR initiative to progress past conventional notions of deradicalization—which generally focus on transforming a person’s beliefs about ideologies—and instead develop a systemic approach that simultaneously encourages disengagement and builds social cohesion and community resilience to prevent the reoccurrence of violence.

A Governance Agenda for Preventing Violence in a Fragile World - Part 2 Jan 08, 2020

Join USIP, the National Democratic Institute, and the George W. Bush Institute for a timely discussion on political transitions out of fragility. This event brings together thought leaders and practitioners from across the peacebuilding, development, security, and democracy and governance communities.

Part Two of this event features former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Ambassador Derek Mitchell and USIP President and CEO, Nancy Lindborg.

A Governance Agenda for Preventing Violence in a Fragile World - Part 1 Jan 08, 2020

Join USIP, the National Democratic Institute, and the George W. Bush Institute for a timely discussion on political transitions out of fragility. This event brings together thought leaders and practitioners from across the peacebuilding, development, security, and democracy and governance communities.

Part One of this event features USAID Administrator Mark Green, Ambassador Derek Mitchell and a panel of next-generation leaders.

7th Annual Release of the Global Terrorism Index Dec 11, 2019

The past year saw a decrease in the overall deaths from terrorism despite new countries experiencing attacks. It saw ISIS lose its territory while far-right terrorism rose substantially—particularly in Europe. Detailed analysis on how terrorism is changing continues to be invaluable for policymakers, practitioners, researchers, and citizens. The seventh annual edition of the Global Terrorism Index provides these vital insights, which allow the counterterrorism community to adapt its strategies to reflect current realities in preventing terrorism and promoting peace.

The Afghan People Make Their Voices Heard Dec 03, 2019

USIP hosted The Asia Foundation for the launch of their 15th Survey of the Afghan People. First commissioned in 2004, the annual survey provides an unmatched barometer of Afghan public opinion over time and serves as a unique resource for policymakers, the international community, the Afghan government, and the broader public in Afghanistan.

The 2019 Korea Global Forum Nov 20, 2019

USIP, in partnership with the Sejong Institute and the South Korean Ministry of Unification, hosted a discussion with experts and practitioners from the United States and South Korea on the challenges and prospects of denuclearization, a peace regime, and a peace economy for the Korean Peninsula—as well as featured keynote remarks from the South Korean Minister of Unification Yeon-chul Kim.

The Role of Higher Education in Resolving Conflict and its Consequences Nov 19, 2019

USIP and NAFSA: Association of International Educators explored best practices in peacebuilding shared by experts from the peacebuilding and international education communities. The event examined ties between higher education and conflict resolution and consider innovative approaches for creating—and sustaining—more peaceful societies.

A Conversation with First Lady of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Rula Ghani Nov 15, 2019

To explore the importance of Afghan women in building a sustainable peace process, H.E. First Lady Rula Ghani will join USIP for a timely discussion on her role in the Afghan Women’s National Consensus for Peace (Ejma-e-Mili), as well as other current events on peace, security, and governance in Afghanistan. Following a keynote address by the First Lady was a moderated question and answer session.

The Treaty of Versailles: A Century Later Nov 13, 2019

On the centennial anniversary of the Treaty of Versailles, USIP will examine what the international community has learned from 100 years of peacebuilding in pursuit of a stable international order.

The Unity of Peace, Justice and Inclusion Nov 06, 2019

Despite steps forward, progress on SDG 16 has been uneven since the SDGs were launched in 2015. To regain momentum, this generation's youth leaders and peacebuilders will need to determine how to make SDG 16 a reality for their communities. You can hear from some of these youth leaders through USIP’s event from Dharamsala, India, where Generation Change Fellows will examine what peace, justice and inclusion look like in their everyday lives and what they hope SDG 16 can do for their countries.

What’s Next for Democracy and Women’s Rights in Afghanistan? Oct 18, 2019

Join Rep. Susan Davis and Rep. Martha Roby as they reflect on important progress made by and for Afghan women within the domestic, civic, military, and political spheres, which they have highlighted in annual congressional delegations to Afghanistan over the past 12 years.

Exploring New Approaches for Atrocity Prevention Oct 17, 2019

Join USIP for a discussion on the Right to Assist doctrine with ICNC President Hardy Merriman and other civil resistance experts. The event will look at how Right to Assist could be implemented, as well as how increased external support might be viewed from the perspectives of efficacy, international law, practical concerns, and possible unintended consequences.

PeaceCon 2019: Seizing the Moment for Peace in a Disrupted World Oct 03, 2019

With a global upsurge in violent conflict, environmental degradation, great power competition, and technological change, the challenges facing the peacebuilding community have never been greater or more urgent. In response to these challenges, USIP is pleased to partner with the Alliance for Peacebuilding to host the largest annual gathering of peacebuilding practitioners in the United States: PeaceCon 2019.

Senator Mark R. Warner on U.S.-China Competition Sep 27, 2019

As China continues to expand its global reach, the Washington-Beijing relationship has become increasingly tense. From trade disputes, to North Korea, to technological innovation, the two nations are contending for influence in similar spaces, but with drastically different objectives, setting the stage for long-term competition that raises difficult questions about the future of U.S. foreign policy. To examine these challenges, Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA) has been convening public-private sector meetings, bringing together congressional, intelligence community, business, and academic leaders to spark this important dialogue.

Syria Study Group Releases Final Report Sep 27, 2019

Well into its ninth year, the conflict in Syria is a devastating humanitarian tragedy and a source of regional instability with serious implications for U.S. national security. Last year, Congress directed USIP to facilitate the bipartisan Syria Study Group (SSG) in order to examine the current state of the conflict and make recommendations on the military and diplomatic strategy of the United States going forward.

The release of the SSG’s final report follows months of extensive consultations across a broad range of stakeholders and experts, as well as travel to the region. It represents the consensus of all twelve Congressionally-appointed SSG members and offers a bipartisan roadmap for the way ahead.

Reintegrating Taliban Fighters in Afghanistan Sep 20, 2019

On September 18, USIP and SIGAR held the official launch of “Reintegration of Ex-Combatants: Lessons from the U.S. Experience in Afghanistan.” The event included a keynote address by Special Inspector General John Sopko, followed by a panel discussion on the report’s findings and recommendations—both for the ongoing insurgency and for a post-settlement Afghanistan.

RESOLVE 2019 Global Forum Sep 19, 2019

Despite progress in countering violent extremism, it still poses challenges that have grown more lethal and complex as new actors and conflicts arise. To face these emerging trends, policymakers and practitioners require global insights—grounded in research—into sources of resilience and vulnerability. The annual RESOLVE Global Forum brought together top scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to reflect on past efforts, explore prevailing myths, and discuss strategies to re-calibrate the way forward in addressing violent extremism.

A Changing Ethiopia: The Puzzle of Ethiopian Politics Sep 17, 2019

During this crucial period of reform and uncertainty in Ethiopia, join Dr. Terrence Lyons, author of a new book, The Puzzle of Ethiopian Politics, in conversation with the U.S. Institute of Peace, to discuss how the very structures that enabled Ethiopia’s ruling party to overcome the challenges of a war-to-peace transition are the very source of the problems that it faces now.

Peace for Afghanistan: What Has Changed? Sep 14, 2019

While all parties take stock of the new situation and determine the best way forward to achieve stability in Afghanistan and the region, USIP brought together a distinguished panel of experts to assess where the peace process stands and identify possibilities for sustainable talks in the future.

Forty Years On: What’s Next for U.S.-China Relations? Sep 12, 2019

Amid rising tensions over tariffs and more, frank and open discussion about U.S. policy toward China is needed now more than ever. To explore some of the key issues facing the U.S.-China relationship today, USIP will host a conversation with Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA), co-chairs of the House U.S.-China Working Group.

How to Talk About People Disengaging from Violent Extremism Aug 07, 2019

On August 6, USIP discussed the cognitive underpinnings of language and perception in violent radicalization and rehabilitation. The panel explored examples of other social challenges where the deliberate use of language has been used to reduce stigma and create opportunities for pro-social engagement for highly stigmatized populations.

A Changing Ethiopia - What is the Legacy of Ethnic Federalism Jul 31, 2019

With more than 100 million people, Ethiopia is one of Africa’s most important and populous countries. It’s also unusual: Ethiopia is Africa’s only explicitly ethnically federal state. But amid opening political space and historic national reforms, this model of federalism is coming under strain and the country’s broader national stability is being tested. How ethnic federalism endures, or is discarded, will be a critical question for the future peace and prosperity of the country.

Speakers: Alemayehu Weldemariam

Dr. Yohannes Gedamu Lecturer, Political Science, Georgia Gwinnett College

Dr. Daniel Mains Associate Professor of Anthropology and African Studies, Oklahoma University

Aly Verjee, moderator Senior Advisor, Africa Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

One Year In - A Conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan Jul 24, 2019

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan made his first visit to the United States since taking office last year. Immediately following his meeting with President Trump, the U.S. Institute of Peace hosted Prime Minister Khan to speak directly on developments in Pakistan and the U.S.-Pakistan relationship at this critical time.

The North Korea Sanctions Regime a Year After Singapore Jul 09, 2019

With the prospects of U.S.-North Korea working-level negotiations rekindled after President Trump’s recent surprise meeting with Kim Jong Un at the Korean Demilitarized Zone, sanctions relief remains one of the key sticking points. Pyongyang is demanding relief from economic and financial sanctions in exchange for steps toward denuclearization, raising questions for U.S. policymakers about whether and how to roll back the complex regime of U.S. and multilateral sanctions.

USIP hosted this discussion that examined the scope and purposes of the North Korea sanctions regime, considered the constraints and opportunities for providing partial and complete sanctions relief, and provided a comparative look at other such regimes.

Speakers: Stephanie Kleine-Ahlbrandt Member, U.N. Panel of Experts (Resolution 1874)

Elizabeth Rosenberg Senior Fellow, Center for a New American Security

Joshua Stanton Blogger, One Free Korea

Daniel Wertz Program Manager, National Committee on North Korea

Frank Aum, moderator Senior Expert, U.S. Institute of Peace

A Conversation with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Nadia Murad Jul 01, 2019

Five years after ISIS’ genocidal campaign in Iraq, Yazidis and other religious minorities are struggling to recover from the trauma of occupation and the heinous crimes committed by the terrorist group. On June 28, USIP partnered with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office to host Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nadia Murad, a leading advocate for survivors of genocide and sexual violence, to discuss her work to help Iraq recover, the plight of the Yazidi people, and stabilization and resilience in the country.

Speakers: Dr. Michael Yaffe, welcoming remarks Vice President, Middle East and Africa Center, United States Institute of Peace

Nadia Murad, keynote speaker Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Founder and President of Nadia’s Initiative, and United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for the Dignity of Survivors of Human Trafficking

Ambassador Kelley E. Currie Office of Global Criminal Justice, Department of State

The Honorable Stanley Kao Representative of Taiwan

Knox Thames Special Advisor for Religious Minorities in the Near East and South/Central Asia, U.S. Department of State

Sarhang Hamasaeed, moderator Director, Middle East Programs, United States Institute of Peace

Addressing China’s Economic and Military Coercion in the Indo-Pacific Jun 24, 2019

China continues to develop and invest in its military in the Indo-Pacific and around the world at a startling pace. However, Beijing has also increasingly pursued non-military means of coercion and power projection including infrastructure lending, internal political meddling, and leveraging economic dependence through programs like the Belt and Road Initiative. Along with the escalating geopolitical competition between the United States and China, these initiatives demand a robust and coordinated U.S. response. This response should not only reinforce the United States’ defense posture, but also support enduring interests and values in free and open trade and development, democracy, and human rights.

Rep. Ed Case (D-HI) and Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL), members of the House Appropriations Committee, discussed what Congress is doing to address this issue at USIP’s ninth Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue.

Speakers

Rep. Ed Case (D-HI) U.S. Representative from Hawai’i @RepEdCase

Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL) U.S. Representative from Florida @RepRutherfordFL

Amb. George Moose, moderator Vice Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

South Sudan's Stalled Path to Peace Jun 19, 2019

In early May, South Sudan’s ruling and opposition parties agreed to extend the pre-transitional period of the South Sudan peace agreement leading to the formation of a unified Government for an additional six months. The extension of this period presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress and challenges to establishing a just peace in the country. South Sudanese citizens are desperate for peace, but many are asking what channels exist to support a meaningful reduction of violence. Between January and March alone, 25,000 people fled the country, adding to the already two million South Sudanese refugees worldwide. Without full implementation of the peace process, national- and local-level conflicts will continue to threaten hard-won development gains and require greater investments in lifesaving humanitarian aid.

This live-streamed discussion examined South Sudan’s peace agreement and the measures required to build peace in the young nation. Experts from USIP, the Enough Project, and Democracy International offered concrete, evidence-based recommendations for how to mitigate conflict, promote peace and advance accountability. Take part in the conversation on Twitter with #USIPSouthSudan.

Speakers

David Acuoth Founder, Council on South Sudanese-American Relations

Brian Adeba Deputy Director of Policy, Enough Project @kalamashaka

Mark Ferullo Senior Advisor, The Sentry

Morgan Simpson Deputy Director of Programs, Democracy International @democracyintl

Susan Stigant Director of Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace @SusanStigant

Third Annual U.S. Georgia Strategic Partnership Conference Jun 13, 2019

The United States Institute of Peace, Embassy of Georgia, and the Heritage Foundation conducted the third annual U.S.-Georgia strategic partnership conference. The conference offered look at how the United States and Georgia can further strengthen the ties between the two nations. It also provided a unique chance for U.S. decision-makers, experts, scholars, and journalists to focus on geopolitical regional trends and challenges, and explore bilateral opportunities from both the regional and international perspective.

Speakers:

Welcoming Remarks, Ms. Nancy Lindborg, President, United States Institute of Peace

Keynote Address, The Honorable Mamuka Bakhtadze, Prime Minister of Georgia

Session 1: Geopolitics and Security: Ensuring Regional Peace and Stability

H.E. David Zalkaliani Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

Mr. Michael J. Murphy Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian AffairsDr.

James Jay CarafanoVice President, Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy and the E.W. Richardson Fellow, The Heritage Foundation

Mr. Peter Doran, moderator President and CEO, Center for European Policy Analysis

Session 2: Trade and Commerce: Regional Hub for Growth

Mr. Alexander Benard Co-Head of Cerberus Frontier and Senior Managing Director, Cerberus (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.

Ms. Cynthia Huger Vice President, Administration and Finance and Agency Head, The Millennium Challenge Corporation

H.E. Natia Turnava Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia

Mr. Anthony Kim, moderator Research Manager and Editor of the Index of Economic Freedom, The Heritage Foundation

After India’s Vote - Prospects for Improved Ties with Pakistan Jun 06, 2019

India’s just-completed parliamentary elections pose new questions: How will the next government in New Delhi engage Pakistan, and how might Islamabad respond? To share assessments of the likely trajectory of India-Pakistan relations following India’s election and the necessary steps to improve ties, USIP hosted a panel including two USIP senior fellows leading the Institute’s research on the best current options for reducing and resolving the 70-year-old India-Pakistan conflict.

Participants: Ambassador Jalil Jilani Jennings Randolph Senior Fellow, U.S. Institute of Peace Former Pakistani Ambassador to the United States

Tara Kartha Jennings Randolph Senior Fellow, U.S. Institute of Peace Former Director of Indian National Security Council Secretariat

Josh White Associate Professor, Johns Hopkins University

Johnny Walsh, moderator Senior Program Officer, Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

#CyberspaceIRL - Rule of Law Approaches to Virtual Threats May 22, 2019

A $600 billion black market, cybercrime has transformed the digital world into a sophisticated platform to steal and profit from personal data, undermine civil rights, manipulate elections, disseminate anti-democratic propaganda, and steal intelligence. Yet, cyberspaces remain largely unregulated.

The U.S. Institute of Peace and the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative brouht together representatives from academia, national security, and the private and public sectors, to identify rule of law strategies to more effectively address this ever-changing landscape.

Welcome and Introductions:

David Yang Vice President, Applied Conflict Transformation, U.S. Institute of Peace

Alberto Mora Director, American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative

Judge Margaret McKeown Board Chair, American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative

Keynote: “Setting the Stage for the Clash of Norms in Cyberspace”

Sujit Raman Associate Deputy Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice

Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue - Diplomacy and Development in a Complex Global Landscape May 10, 2019

America’s capacity to manage global challenges and advance its interests—amid pandemics, record levels of displacement, terrorism emanating from fragile states and a connected global economy—requires effective use of U.S. national security tools. To meet the challenges posed by the growing influence of China and Russia, U.S. diplomatic and development efforts must evolve and adapt to a complex 21st Century world while ensuring the effectiveness of resources and methods.

Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA) and Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY), leaders of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, will discuss how U.S. diplomacy and development are working to achieve America’s goals and adapt to the changing global landscape at USIP’s eighth Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue.

Speakers: Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA) U.S. Representative from California

Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY) U.S. Representative from New York

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

China’s Role in North Korea Nuclear and Peace Negotiations May 07, 2019

Despite high hopes after the first summit in Singapore, U.S.-North Korea negotiations remain deadlocked after a failed second summit in Hanoi. China, as North Korea’s largest neighbor and main trade partner, has played an important role in previous negotiations and should be encouraged to play a constructive role in moving talks forward. The United States hopes Beijing’s economic and diplomatic leverage with North Korea can help bring Pyongyang back to the negotiation table.

USIP’s China-North Korea Senior Study Group convened over several months to consider how Washington can best engage Beijing to advance progress on denuclearization and peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Speakers: Ambassador J. Stapleton Roy Founding Director Emeritus, Kissinger Institute on China and the United States Former U.S. Ambassador to China Co-chair, USIP China-North Korea Senior Study Group

Ambassador Joseph Yun Senior Advisor, USIP Former U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Policy Co-chair, USIP China-North Korea Senior Study Group

Daniel Russel Vice President, International Security and Diplomacy, Asia Society Policy Institute Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Member, USIP China-North Korea Senior Study Group

Ambassador Kathleen Stephens President, Korea Economic Institute of America Former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Member, USIP China-North Korea Senior Study Group

Jennifer Staats Director, East and Southeast Asia Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace Executive Director, USIP China Senior Study Group Series

After Doha, What’s Next for Afghan Peace Talks? May 06, 2019

A peace process to end the 18-year war has gathered steam, with talks between the U.S. and Taliban appearing to make substantial progress on foreign troop presence and counterterrorism. Negotiations among Afghans on the country’s political future have not begun, however, and last week’s conference in Doha that might have launched these discussions collapsed at the last minute.

During this moment of rapid developments, rare opportunity, and considerable uncertainty, the U.S. Institute of Peace hosted a distinguished panel of experts examine what’s next for the Afghan peace process.

Speakers: Scott Worden, welcoming remarks Director, Afghanistan and Central Asia Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

Belquis Ahmadi Senior Program Officer, U.S. Institute of Peace

Jarrett Blanc Senior Fellow, Geoeconomics and Strategy Program, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Lotfullah Najafizada Director, TOLOnews TV

Scott Smith Technical Advisor, Afghanistan, U.S Institute of Peace

Johnny Walsh, moderator Senior Expert, Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

Instability and Opportunity in North Africa May 02, 2019

Across North Africa, instability is at its highest level since 2011. In Algeria, President Bouteflika’s resignation was a necessary step to democratization, but it remains to be seen if the political structure can survive protesters’ demands for reform and ensure a peaceful transition of power.

On May 1, USIP hosted a conversation with the Tunisian Minister of Defense Abdelkrim Zbidi, where he discussed the dynamics of North Africa and how the U.S. and Tunisia are working together to promote regional security.

Speakers: Abdelkrim Zbidi Minister of Defense, Republic of Tunisia

Thomas Hill Senior Program Officer, North Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Michael Yaffe Vice President, Middle East and Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

China's Belt and Road Initiative at Year Six Apr 26, 2019

China will host its second Belt and Road Forum in Beijing on April 26-27, two years after hosting its inaugural forum that was attended by dozens of world leaders and put a spotlight on Beijing’s massive signature initiative and its global leadership ambitions.

This conference features two panels: The first discusses cross-regional trends and concerns about BRI, alternatives to the Chinese model of investment and development, and strategies for increasing the sustainability of international development efforts. The second panel examines the on-the-ground impact of BRI in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa and implications for conflict dynamics in these regions.

Panel 1: Toward High-Quality Projects: Comparing BRI’s Implementation to Global Standards

Samantha Custer Director of Policy Analysis, AidData

Scott Morris Senior Fellow and Director of the U.S. Development Policy Initiative, Center for Global Development

Pauline Muchina Public Education and Advocacy Coordinator, Africa Region, American Friends Service Committee

Fei Yu Deputy Representative, North American Representative Office of the Asian Development Bank

Patricia Kim, moderator Senior Policy Analyst, China Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

Panel 2: BRI’s Impact on Local and Regional Dynamics: Force for Stability or Driver of Conflict?

Brian Harding Deputy Director and Fellow, Southeast Asia Program, Center for Strategic and International Studies

Khin Khin Kyaw Kyee Lead Researcher, Institute for Strategy and Policy – Myanmar

Paul Nantulya Research Associate, Africa Center for Strategic Studies

Andrew Small Senior Transatlantic Fellow, Asia Program, German Marshall Fund of the United States

Jacob Stokes, moderator Senior Policy Analyst, China Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

A New Approach to Preventing Extremism in Fragile States - International Prevention Efforts Apr 24, 2019

Congress charged the U.S. Institute of Peace, an independent, bipartisan leader in reducing and preventing conflict, with convening The Task Force on Extremism in Fragile States. The Task Force has developed a proposal for a new cost-effective, evidence-based, and coordinated preventive approach. Modest U.S. investments—if they are strategic, coordinated, well-timed, and sustained—can empower communities over time to better resist extremism on their own and motivate international donors to support this cause.

Panelists:

Ambassador Diane Corner Counsellor of Foreign and Security Policy, British Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Ambassador Martin Dahinden Ambassador of Switzerland to the United States of America

Habib Mayar Deputy General Secretary of the g7+

Ulrika Modéer UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of UNDP’s Bureau for External Relations and Advocacy

Sam Worthington President and CEO, InterAction

Raj Kumar, moderator Founding President and Editor-in-Chief, Devex

A New Approach to Preventing Extremism in Fragile States - Prioritizing Prevention Across the US Government Apr 24, 2019

Congress charged the U.S. Institute of Peace, an independent, bipartisan leader in reducing and preventing conflict, with convening The Task Force on Extremism in Fragile States. The Task Force has developed a proposal for a new cost-effective, evidence-based, and coordinated preventive approach. Modest U.S. investments—if they are strategic, coordinated, well-timed, and sustained—can empower communities over time to better resist extremism on their own and motivate international donors to support this cause.

Panelists:

Chris Milligan Counselor, The U.S. Agency for International Development

Denise Natali Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations, U.S. Department of State

Lieutenant General Michael Nagata Director for Strategic Operational Planning, National Counterterrorism Center

Alina Romanowski Principal Deputy Coordinator for Counterterrorism, U.S. Department of State

Ambassador Paula Dobriansky, moderator Senior Fellow for The Future of Diplomacy Project, Harvard University

A New Approach to Preventing Extremism in Fragile States - Recommendations of the Task Force Apr 24, 2019

Congress charged the U.S. Institute of Peace, an independent, bipartisan leader in reducing and preventing conflict, with convening The Task Force on Extremism in Fragile States. The Task Force has developed a proposal for a new cost-effective, evidence-based, and coordinated preventive approach. Modest U.S. investments—if they are strategic, coordinated, well-timed, and sustained—can empower communities over time to better resist extremism on their own and motivate international donors to support this cause.

Panelists:

Secretary Madeleine Albright Chair, Albright Stonebridge Group

Stephen J. Hadley Chair of the Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

Governor Tom Kean Co-Chair, Task Force on Extremism in Fragile States

Nancy Lindborg President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Michael Singh Lane-Swig Senior Fellow and Managing Director, The Washington Institute

David Ignatius, moderator Columnist and Author, The Washington Post

Youth - The Missing Peace Apr 12, 2019

Long before the 2015 adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, young people were working to prevent violence, transform conflict and build peace in their communities. UNSCR 2250 sought to be a turning point, and its resulting progress study, “The Missing Peace: Independent Progress Study on Youth and Peace and Security,” updates this outdated narrative and demonstrates young people’s positive role in sustaining peace.

On Thursday, April 11, USIP and the Global Coalition on Youth, Peace and Security held an interactive, intergenerational conversation with the study’s lead author, Graeme Simpson, as well as youth and peacebuilding experts and young peacebuilders from around the world.

Speakers: Nancy Lindborg, Welcoming Remarks President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Aubrey Cox Program Officer, Youth, U.S. Institute of Peace

Giannina Raffo Youth Peace Leader, Venezuela

Graeme Simpson Lead Author of the Progress Study and Director, Interpeace USA

Noella Richard, moderator Youth Team Leader, United Nations Development Program

Saji Prelis, closing remarks Director of Children & Youth Programs, Search for Common Ground

A Conversation with CAR President Touadera Apr 10, 2019

The Central African Republic (CAR) has recently taken a significant step toward peace after years of violence and instability. In February, negotiations convened under the auspices of the African Union led to a peace agreement between the CAR government and leaders of armed groups.

Now President Faustin-Archange Touadéra must lead the implementation of the agreement to resolve the many complex issues that have driven violence in the country. On April 9, President Touadéra visited the U.S. Institute of Peace to discuss his priorities and vision for building peace in CAR.

Will Iraq's New Parliament Bring Change Mar 29, 2019

As Iraq’s new parliament and government come to power, fresh leadership presents Iraq with the opportunity to overcome these obstacles and make progress by developing its economy, increasing security, and strengthening governance and social services.

On March 29, we spoke with Iraq’s new speaker of the Council of Representatives, Mohammed al-Halbousi, about the newly formed parliament’s priorities, the ongoing battle against violent extremism, and his vision for peace and stability.

Speakers: Nancy Lindborg President, U.S. Institute of Peace

His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Al-Halbousi Speaker, Council of Representatives, Republic of Iraq

Overcoming War Legacies - Luncheon Conversation Mar 27, 2019

The governments of the United States of America and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, in partnership with the United States Institute of Peace, hosted an event examining the transformation from enemies to partners by the two countries since the end of the war in 1975. Remarks for Luncheon Ambassador Ha Kim Ngoc Vietnamese Ambassador to the United States

Luncheon Conversation Honorable Chuck Hagel Former U.S. Secretary of Defense

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Overcoming War Legacies - Panel 3: The Road Ahead: Building an Enduring Partnership Mar 27, 2019

The governments of the United States of America and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, in partnership with the United States Institute of Peace, hosted an event examining the transformation from enemies to partners by the two countries since the end of the war in 1975. Remarks The Honorable John Sullivan Deputy Secretary of State

Panel - The Road Ahead: Building an Enduring Partnership Ambassador Ha Kim Ngoc Vietnamese Ambassador to the United States

Sr. Lt. Gen. Nguyen Chi Vinh Deputy Defense Minister; Permanent Member of Standing Committee 701

W. Patrick Murphy Acting Assistant Secretary, Bureau East Asia and Pacific Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Tim Rieser Foreign Policy Aide, Senator Patrick Leahy

Elizabeth Becker Former New York Times correspondent and author of “When the War Was Over: Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge Revolution”

Ambassador William Taylor (Ret.), moderator Executive Vice President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Overcoming War Legacies - Panel 2: Healing from the Destruction of War Mar 27, 2019

The governments of the United States of America and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, in partnership with the United States Institute of Peace, hosted an event examining the transformation from enemies to partners by the two countries since the end of the war in 1975. Remarks Honorable Bonnie Glick Deputy Administrator, USAID

Panel - Healing from the Destruction of War Minh Huu Doan Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of Vietnam

Thao Griffiths Policy Advisor, Chairman of Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Former Country Director Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation

Christopher Abrams Director, Environment and Social Development Office, USAID/Vietnam

Colonel Than Thanh Cong Director, Office 701

Jerry Guilbert Chief of Programs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement, U.S. Department of State

Charles R. Bailey, moderator Co-author, “From Enemies to Partners: Vietnam, the U.S. and Agent Orange” Former Director of Agent Orange programs at Ford Foundation & Aspen Institute

Overcoming War Legacies - Panel 1: Foundations of US-Vietnamese Post-War Partnership Mar 27, 2019

The governments of the United States of America and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, in partnership with the United States Institute of Peace, hosted an event examining the transformation from enemies to partners by the two countries since the end of the war in 1975.

Agenda:

Welcome Remarks: Honorable Nancy Lindborg President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Remarks on Behalf of the Government of Vietnam: Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh Deputy Defense Minister; Permanent Member of Standing Committee 701

Remarks by Senior U.S. Department of Defense Official: Dr. Joseph H. Felter Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia

Remarks: Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) U.S. Senator, Vermont

Panel: Foundations of US-Vietnamese Post-War Partnership: Kelly McKeague Director, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency

Nguyen Huu Luong MIA Agency Director, Ministry of Defense Ambassador Pham Quang Vinh Former Vietnamese Ambassador to the United States

Robert Destatte Vietnam Analyst, Defense Intelligence Agency

Fred Downs Former National Director, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service

Ambassador, Charles Ray (Ret.), moderator Former Consul General, Ho Chi Minh City

Women Leading Nonviolent Movements Mar 22, 2019

To celebrate National Women’s History Month, the U.S. Institute of Peace and the 2020 One Woman, One Vote Festival hosted an intergenerational discussion among women nonviolent activists.

Speakers: Scovia Arinaitwe Team Leader, Rhizing Women Uganda

Mariam Jalabi Founding Member, Syrian Nonviolence Movement

Isabella Picón Founding Member, LaboCiudadano - Venezuela

Judy Richardson Producer of “Eyes on the Prize”

Marie Berry, moderator University of Denver

Kathleen Kuehnast, moderator Director, Gender Policy and Strategy, U.S. Institute of Peace

Maria Stephan, moderator Director, Nonviolent Action, U.S. Institute of Peace

Crimea After 5 Years of Russian Occupation Mar 20, 2019

In the five years since its invasion and attempted annexation of the Crimean Peninsula, Russia has continued violating the norms and standards of the international order in Ukraine’s Donbas and the Sea of Azov. On March 19, 2019, the U.S. Institute of Peace, the Ukrainian Embassy and the Atlantic Council hosted a discussion on the illegal Russian occupation of Ukraine’s Crimea. A distinguished set of panelists went beyond the current nonrecognition policies and delved into scenarios that could create the conditions necessary to reunify the Crimean Peninsula, deter further Russian aggression and move past the dangers of the status quo.

Speakers: Ambassador Bill Taylor, opening remarks Executive Vice President, USIP Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine

Ambassador Valeriy Chaly, opening remarks Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States

Heather Conley Senior Vice President, Center for Strategic and International Studies

Akhtem Chiygoz Deputy Chairman of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People

Emine Dzhaparova First Deputy Minister of Information Policy, Ukraine

George Kent Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Victoria Nuland Former Assistant Secretary of State, European and Eurasian Affairs

Andrew Weiss Vice President, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Ambassador John Herbst, moderator Director, Eurasia Center, Atlantic Council Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine

How Pakistan Navigates the Saudi Arabia-Iran Rivalry Mar 11, 2019

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman recently visited Pakistan to finalize agreements on new projects in the energy sector and other areas, which solidified a $20 billion Saudi investment in Pakistan’s economy to match the scale of China, Islamabad’s principal ally. Pakistani military cooperation with Saudi Arabia has also remained strong, with the former Pakistani chief of army staff Raheel Sharif now heading a Saudi-sponsored military coalition.

The deepening relationship between Pakistan and the Gulf states comes at a period of high tension between Saudi Arabia and Iran, whose border with Pakistan has also been the site of periodic clashes and whose past efforts to launch a gas pipeline project linking the two countries remains stalled.

Speakers: Ankit Panda Senior Editor, The Diplomat

Karen Young Resident Scholar, American Enterprise Institute

Alex Vatanka Senior Fellow, Middle East Institute

Ambassador Richard Olson, moderator Former United States Ambassador to Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates

#HerPotentialOurFuture: Gender Equality, Fragility and Conflict Affected States Mar 08, 2019

Recent decades have seen huge gains in progress on empowering women and girls but we are still far from achieving gender equality. And nowhere is this more true than in fragile and conflict affected states, where often it is the women and girls who face the greatest challenges.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, USIP was pleased to host U.K. Secretary of State for International Development and Minister for Women and Equalities, the Right Honorable Penny Mordaunt, to discuss gender equality and women’s rights.

Speakers:

Right Honorable Penny Mordaunt U.K. Secretary of State for International Development and Minister for Women and Equalities

The Honorable Nancy Lindborg President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Building Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies Amid a World on Fire Mar 06, 2019

At a time of global peril, the Carnegie Mellon’s Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy in Washington, New York University’s Center on International Cooperation, and the U.S. Institute of Peace convened a lively panel discussion on how to mobilize behind a roadmap that will put peace at the heart of the 2030 Agenda.

Speakers: Laura E. Bailey Global Lead, Stability Peace and Security, SURR Global Practice, World Bank Group

Ambassador Sarah Mendelson Distinguished Service Professor of Public Policy, and Head of Carnegie Mellon University's Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy in Washington

Daniel Nagin The Teresa and H. John Heinz III University Professor of Public Policy and Statistics, Carnegie Mellon University's Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy

Maria Stephan Director of the Program on Nonviolent Action, U.S. Institute of Peace

David Steven Senior Fellow and Associate Director, New York University’s Center on International Cooperation

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Pakistani Ambassador to U.S. Dr. Asad Majeed Khan on Pakistan's Priorities Mar 04, 2019

Over the past several months, the United States and Pakistan have increased their diplomatic engagement in order to advance prospects for Afghan peace and reconciliation.

Recently arrived Pakistani Ambassador to the U.S., Dr. Asad Majeed Khan, discussed Pakistan’s policy responses to recent developments and his priorities for the U.S.-Pakistan relationship.

Speakers: Dr. Asad Majeed Khan Ambassador to the U.S., Pakistan

Moeed Yusuf, moderator Associate Vice President, Asia Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

What is the State of the Rule of Law Around the World in 2019? Mar 01, 2019

The WJP Rule of Law Index® 2019 is the latest report in an annual series measuring the rule of law based on the experiences and perceptions of the general public and in-country experts worldwide. USIP in conjuction with the World Justice Project discussed key findings from the WJP Rule of Law Index 2019 and how the rule of law matters for the future of fair and functioning societies worldwide.

Speakers

Bill Taylor, welcoming remarks Executive Vice President, U.S. Institute of Peace William Hubbard, welcoming remarks Board Chair, World Justice Project Elizabeth Andersen Executive Director, World Justice Project Dr. Alejandro Ponce Chief Research Officer, World Justice Project

Maria Stephan Director Nonviolent Action, U.S. Institute of Peace

Hoyt Yee Senior Fellow, U.S. Institute of Peace Philippe Leroux-Martin, moderator Director Governance Justice and Security, U.S. Institute of Peace

Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad on the Prospects for Peace in Afghanistan Feb 11, 2019

The U.S. has redoubled its efforts to facilitate a peace process that will end the conflict in Afghanistan, protect U.S. national security interests, and strengthen Afghanistan’s sovereignty. USIP was pleased to host Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad for his first public event since becoming the special representative.

Speakers:

Nancy Lindborg President, U.S Institute of Peace

Zalmay Khalilzad Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, U.S Department of State

Stephen J. Hadley Chair, Board of Directors, U.S Institute of Peace

The Elusive Consensus on Peace in Colombia (Spanish-Only) Dec 13, 2018

Since taking office in August 2018, Colombia’s government has sought to devise new strategies to advance peace and security in a country long plagued by armed conflict and organized criminal violence. Political consensus around peace, however, has remained elusive.

The United States Institute of Peace, the Inter-American Dialogue, and the Woodrow Wilson Center on Tuesday, December 11th hosted a conversation with three prominent members of the Colombian Senate’s Peace Commission.

Speakers: Roy Barreras Senator, Partido de la Unidad Nacional

Michael Camilleri Director, Peter D. Bell Rule of Law Program, The Inter-American Dialogue

Iván Cepeda Senator, Polo Democrático Alternativo

Paloma Valencia Senator, Centro Democrático

Steve Hege, moderator Senior Expert on Colombia, U.S. Institute of Peace

Resilience in Conflict Dec 13, 2018

The world’s most violent conflicts are being fought within its most youthful populations. In the five countries that suffered nearly 80 percent of recent deaths from violent extremism, half of all people were younger than 22. The youth in these countries are also some of their communities’ most effective peacebuilders and best hopes for breaking cycles of violence.

On December 12, USIP streamed a forum with thought leader and youth leader participants from USIP’s Youth Leaders’ Exchange with His Holiness the Dalai Lama discussing what it takes to build inner resilience and how to apply it to peacebuliding.

Speakers: Wadi Ben-Hirki Founder, Wadi Ben-Hriki Foundation (Nigeria)

Jimmie Briggs Executive Director, Leave Out Violence-U.S., (U.S.)

Meron Kocho Member of Council, MESPO-Iraq (Iraq)

Maya Soetoro-Ng Advisor, Obama Foundation (U.S.)

Gregg Zoroya Editorial Writer, USA Today (U.S)

Bridging the Data-Policy Gap on Counter-terrorism Dec 11, 2018

Trends in global terrorism change every year. From fragile states to urban megacities, data shows how many societies are impacted by violence. But, how does this data help prevent and counter violent extremism? The findings of the sixth annual edition of the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) provide data on the evolving trends of global terrorism that are useful for policy, programming and research.

Ending Sexual Violence - From Policy to Practice Dec 07, 2018

Over the last two decades, policy frameworks like the Women, Peace and Security agenda, provide a valuable platform for advocacy efforts. Yet such approaches do not tackle the underlying issue of gender inequality. As researchers have documented, where there is less gender equality there is less peace.

The U.S. Civil Society Working Group on Women, Peace and Security and the U.S. Institute of Peace hosted this discussion examining how policies and programs can be shaped to better prevent the use of sexual violence and re-establish secure environments when it does occur.

Building Peace from the Bottom Up Nov 30, 2018

Do postwar peacebuilding interventions work to keep peace? How do we measure the effectiveness of such international interventions? Join former USIP Jennings Randolph Senior Fellow Pamina Firchow as she discusses her findings on how to measure the impact of local-level interventions on communities affected by war.

Soft Power in a Sharp Power World - A Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue Nov 29, 2018

Global adversaries, especially states like Russia, China and Iran, use sharp power tools of coercion, disinformation and proxy campaigns to achieve their geopolitical goals and weaken Western influence.

Former U.S. ambassadors Rep. Francis Rooney (R-FL) and Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) discussed their views on how soft power tools can and should be used to counter sharp power employed by global adversaries at USIP’s seventh Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue

Speakers: Rep. Francis Rooney (R-FL) 19th Congressional District of Florida, U.S. House of Representatives

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) 8th Congressional District of Virginia, U.S. House of Representatives

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

How to Rehabilitate and Reintegrate Violent Extremists Nov 28, 2018

As the loss of ISIS territory drives thousands of “foreign terrorist fighters” to return home, and hundreds of people convicted of terrorism-related offenses are scheduled for release over the next several years, communities worldwide are faced with rehabilitating and reintegrating people disengaging from violent extremism.

USIP hosted this discussion of how policies and programs can address trauma and reduce stigma to foster cross-cutting affiliations and social learning, enable rehabilitation, and ease reintegration for people disengaging from extremist violence.

Panelists:

Jesse Morton Founder and Co-director, Parallel Networks, and co-author of the forthcoming report, “When Terrorists Come Home: The Need for Rehabilitating and Reintegrating America’s Convicted Jihadists”

Dr. James Gordon Founder and Executive Director, The Center for Mind-Body Medicine

Dr. Sousan Abadian Franklin Fellow, Office of International Religious Freedom, Department of State

Stacey Schamber Senior Program Officer, International Civil Society Action Network

Colette Rausch, moderator Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace

A Conversation with Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis Oct 31, 2018

The 2018 National Defense Strategy asserts that the United States is emerging from a post-Cold War period of “strategic atrophy.” On October 30, 2018, the U.S. Institute of Peace hosted a discussion with Secretary Mattis on how the National Defense Strategy seeks to meet the shared challenges of our time through strengthening and evolving America’s strategic alliances and partnerships.

What Really Works to Prevent Election Violence Oct 30, 2018

One in five elections worldwide is marred by violence—from burned ballot boxes to violent suppression of peaceful rallies, to assassinations of candidates. A USIP study of programs to prevent violence suggests focusing on improving the administration and policing of elections. The study, of elections in Kenya and Liberia, found no evidence that programs of voter consultation or peace messaging were effective there. A series of speakers discussed these findings.

Speakers: Pat Merloe Senior Associate and Director for Election Programs, NDI

John Tomaszewski Africa Director, IRI

Joshua Changwony Deputy Executive Secretary, Constitution and Reform Education Consortium (CRECO, Kenya)

Oscar Bloh Chairman, Elections Coordination Committee (ECC, Liberia)

Inken von Borzyskowski Assistant Professor, Florida State University

Jonas Claes, facilitator Senior Program Officer, Center for Applied Conflict Transformation, USIP

Debra Liang-Fenton, facilitator Senior Program Officer, Center for Applied Conflict Transformation, USIP

PeaceCon 2018 - Synthesizing and Modeling the Science on Sustaining Peace Oct 25, 2018

Jessica Baumgardner-Zuzik Director of Learning & Evaluation, Alliance for Peacebuilding

Michael Findley Professor of Government and Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin

Lise Morjé Howard Associate Professor of Government, Georgetown University

Renard Sexton Postdoctoral Fellow, Princeton University and International Crisis Group

Rebecca Wolfe Director of Evidence & Influence, Mercy Corps

PeaceCon 2018 - What Do We Know About Conflict Oct 25, 2018

Maciej Bartkowski PhD, John Hopkins University

Sarah Mendelson Distinguished Service Professor of Public Policy and Head of Heinz College at Carnegie Mellon University

Dmytro Potekhin Founder and CEO, FakesRadar.org

Moderator: Charles North Senior Advisor, Ukraine, U.S. Institute of Peace

PeaceCon 2018 - A Call for Collaborative and Collective Action Oct 25, 2018

PeaceCon Welcome and Keynote Address: Ambassador Bill Taylor Vice President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Liz HumeVice President, and Acting CEO, Alliance for Peacebuilding

Robert Burke Chairman, Alliance for Peacebuilding

General Anthony Zinni U.S. Marine Corps (Retired)

Thomas Staal Counselor, USAID, Keynote

Global Policy Frameworks on Sustaining Peace - A Call for Collaborative and Collective Action:

Larry Attree Head of Policy, Saferworld

Rosarie Tucci Director of Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Darynell Rodriguez Torres Executive Director, Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict

David Steven Associate Director, Center on International Cooperation, New York University

Katy Thompson Team Leader – Conflict Prevention/Rule of Law, Justice, Security & Human Rights, Bureau for Programme and Policy Support, United Nations Development Programme

Moderator: Gary Milante, Director, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s Peace and Development Programme

How Can Peacemakers Show Success? Oct 25, 2018

Peacebuilding work matters, but we still struggle to show evidence of where interventions have led to positive outcomes, such as a clear reduction in violence or increased cooperation. The Peacebuilding M&E Solutions Forum is an opportunity for practitioners to come together, network and connect with people working in this space, and share best practices, lessons learned, results, and evidence from across the broad spectrum of M&E activities on peacebuilding programming. This event is co-hosted by the U.S. Institute of Peace and the Alliance for Peacebuilding.

Speakers:

Amb. William Taylor Executive Vice President, USIP

Keith B. Ives CEO, Causal Design

Jon Kurtz Director of Research and Learning, Mercy Corps

David Hammond Director of Research, Institute for Economics and Peace

Andrew Blum Executive Director, Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice

Beza Tesfaye Senior Researcher, Mercy Corps

Breaking Rules to Build Peace Oct 22, 2018

Why do peacebuilders sometimes succeed and sometimes fail, even within the same country? Why can organizations not guarantee the same results from the same policies? In her newly published book, Global Governance and Local Peace: Accountability and Performance in International Peacebuilding, Susanna Campbell dives into why peacebuilding organizations often fail and presents one of the keys to success: local actors that force organizations to stay accountable to local peacebuilding goals.

Speakers: Susanna Campbell Assistant Professor, School of International Service, American University

Michael Barnett Professor, International Affairs and Political Science, The George Washington University

Mike Jobbins Senior Director of Partnerships and Engagement, Search for Common Ground

Kate Somvongsiri Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator, Bureau of Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance, U.S. Agency for International Development

Leanne Erdberg, moderator Director, Countering Violent Extremism, The U.S. Institute of Peace

Civil Resistance and Democratization Oct 10, 2018

A groundbreaking new monograph, “When Civil Resistance Succeeds: Building Democracy After Popular Nonviolent Uprisings,” by Jonathan Pinckney, demonstrates that nonviolent movements make democratic transitions more likely and lead to stronger democracies. The U.S. Institute of Peace and ICNC hosted a presentation by Dr. Pinckney followed by a panel discussion. The event provided key takeaways for activists and organizers, democratization experts, as well as external actors interested in supporting nonviolent movements, particularly prior to and during democratic transition.

Pakistan's New Government: Change or Continuity in Foreign Policy? Oct 04, 2018

As the new Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government settles into its second month in office, it has yet to publicly articulate a comprehensive vision for its foreign policy. Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has promised that Pakistan’s foreign policy will “begin and end at Pakistan,” but many questions remain on how the government intends to implement this vision.

At an initial meeting in Islamabad earlier in September, Secretary Pompeo expressed a desire to find common ground between the two countries, but also reiterated the United States has “real expectations” for the new government.

In recent months, the U.S. government has also moved to prioritize a peace process in Afghanistan, historically a major source of contention between the United States and Pakistan. How can we expect Pakistan’s new government to respond?

Speakers:

Shah Mahmood Qureshi Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Islamic Republic of Pakistan

China: Managing Conflict and Competition - A Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue Sep 27, 2018

The evolution of U.S.-China relations over the last 40 years presents challenges that, if not properly managed, threaten American leadership in key places of strategic interest, from Asia to Africa to the Western Hemisphere. Rep. Chris Stewart (R-UT) and Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) joined USIP for a Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue about the People’s Republic of China as it increases its malicious activity in cyberspace, expands its military capabilities and presence around the globe, and uses economic tools to gain strategic leverage and undermine democracy in fragile states.

What Drives Violence in Central America's Northern Triangle? Sep 25, 2018

Violence and crime are the main drivers of mass immigration from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador into the United States. These countries form a region known as the Northern Triangle, which ranks in the top 10 worldwide for homicide, corruption, drug trafficking and gang violence. Over the past several decades, a significant amount of U.S. funds have been allocated to the war on drugs, rather than for security, peace and development. As conflict continues to escalate in Central America, how can the U.S. mitigate the violence, support and strengthen rule of law, and curb immigration?

Speakers: Steve Olive Acting Senior Deputy Assistant Administrator for Latin America, USAID, Opening Remarks

Lisa Haugaard Executive Director, Latin America Working Group

Steve Hege Senior Expert, Colombia, U.S. Institute of Peace

Adam Isacson Director for Defense Oversight, WOLA

Enrique Roig Director, Citizen Security Practice Area Creative Associates International

China's Role in Myanmar's Internal Conflicts Sep 17, 2018

For six months this year, USIP convened a group of 13 senior experts to examine China’s involvement in Myanmar’s internal conflicts—particularly those in Rakhine, Kachin, and Shan states—and peace process. On September 17, USIP hosted a discussion with the group’s co-chairs on the main findings of their report, which is the first in USIP’s China Senior Study Group series examining China’s influence on conflict dynamics around the world.

Speakers: Nancy Lindborg, opening remarks President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ambassador Derek Mitchell President, National Democratic Institute Co-chair, USIP China-Myanmar Senior Study Group

Daniel Twining President, International Republican Institute Co-chair, USIP China-Myanmar Senior Study Group

David Steinberg Distinguished Professor of Asian Studies Emeritus, Georgetown University Member, USIP China-Myanmar Senior Study Group

Jennifer Staats, moderator Director, East and Southeast Asia Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace Executive Director, USIP China Senior Study Groups Series

Task Force on Extremism in Fragile States - Interim Report Launch Sep 12, 2018

This interim report of the Task Force on Extremism in Fragile States explains why such a preventive strategy is needed and what it might entail. In 2019, the Task Force will propose a comprehensive preventive strategy to mitigate the conditions that give rise to violent extremism

Speakers:

Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats

Task Force Co-Chair Governor Tom Kean

Senator Kelly Ayotte

USIP President Nancy Lindborg

U.K. Secretary of State Jeremy Hunt on Foreign Policy Aug 21, 2018

Amid unprecedented challenges to the postwar order, the U.S.-U.K. special relationship is critical to upholding democracy and the rule of law and promoting international peace and stability. Speaking at USIP—a U.S. national institute dedicated to preventing violent conflict and building peace around the world—the foreign secretary spoke about the challenges currently being presented to the rules-based international order and how the U.K. will work in partnership with other like-minded countries around the world to address them.

Pakistan Elections-- What Now? Aug 08, 2018

Pakistan's national elections on July 25 ushered in a new government, with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party now set to head a new governing coalition and former cricket star Imran Khan expected to become prime minister. After a controversial campaign period, the incumbent Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)—whose former leader Nawaz Sharif was imprisoned just days before the elections—has alleged rigging, military manipulation, and media censorship. Several political parties have also challenged the results of the elections.

To discuss the outcome of the elections, the shape of the next government, and the complaints and challenges to the outcome, USIP held a conversation with senior representatives from Pakistan’s top three political parties (PTI, PML-N and the Pakistan Peoples Party) via Skype along with experts Daniel Markey and Moeed Yusuf in Washington, D.C.

Speakers: Syed Tariq Fatemi (via Skype) Former Special Assistant to the Prime Minister

Daniel Markey Senior Research Professor, School of Advanced International Studies, Johns Hopkins University

Naveed Qamar Former Minister for Defense

Jumaina Siddiqui Senior Program Officer, U.S. Institute of Peace

Asad Umar Central Senior Vice President, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf

Moeed Yusuf, moderator Associate Vice President, Asia Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

Faith and Fragile States - Political Stability and Religious Freedom Jul 27, 2018

Religion influences both peace and conflict worldwide. Violent extremism is often framed in religious terms, and religious discrimination continues to increase as both a driver and symptom of conflict. But, religion drives peace and coexistence as well and religious actors are essential for advancing religious freedom. Efforts to engage religious actors in countering violent extremism (CVE) and interfaith peacebuilding must take this dichotomy into account.

Perpetrators of violence in the name of a religion often target vulnerable religious minorities, resulting in increased discrimination, social hostility and extremist behavior. This discussion explores how policymakers and practitioners can engage religious actors in CVE efforts in ways that ensure protection and the advancement of international religious freedom.

Opening Remarks:

Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA), Former U.S. Representative from Virginia

Tony Garrastazu, Senior Director, Center for Global Impact, International Republican Institute

Panelists:

Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, President, Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies

Humera Khan, President, Muflehun

Oliver Wilcox, Deputy Director, Countering Violent Extremism, Bureau of Counterterrorism, U.S. Department of State

Rev. Prof. Fadi Daou, Chair and CEO, Adyan Foundation, Professor, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik

Moderator: Nancy Lindborg, President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Senator Joni Ernst Discusses U.S. Policy Options in Post-ISIS Iraq Jul 26, 2018

On Thursday, July 26, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) joined the U.S. Institute of Peace to give remarks on U.S. policy options in Iraq in the post-ISIS era. She discussed the protection of religious minority groups and offered her perspective on Iranian influence in the country and region.

Senator Ernst is the first female combat veteran to serve in the U.S. Senate, having retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Iowa Army National Guard. She serves as the Chairwoman of the Senate Armed Services Committee’s Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee.

Speakers: Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) U.S. Senator from Iowa

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

South Sudan - From Independence to Civil War Jul 19, 2018

South Sudan’s civil war is one of the most brutal and destructive conflicts of the 21st century. Could the war have been prevented? Could some of the atrocities and misery caused by the war have been avoided? On July 19 the U.S. Institute of Peace and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide hosted a discussion on what lessons should be learned from U.S. policy toward South Sudan in the years leading up to and during the civil war.

Speakers: Ambassador Donald Booth Former U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan and South Sudan

Kate Almquist Knopf Director, Africa Center for Strategic Studies, National Defense University

Joshua Meservey Senior Policy Analyst, Africa and the Middle East, The Heritage Foundation

Jon Temin Visiting Fellow, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide and Africa Director, Freedom House

Mike Yaffe, welcoming remarks Vice President, Middle East and Africa Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

Aly Verjee, moderator Visiting Expert, United States Institute of Peace

Will Pakistan's Youth be a Boom or Bust for its Democracy? Jul 19, 2018

With over 44 percent of new voters between the ages of 18 and 35, Pakistan’s youth will play an important role in the upcoming elections and influence the future of the country’s democracy. To harness the power of Pakistan’s youth, a recent UNDP Human Development Report argues for a national focus on youth empowerment through education, employment, and meaningful engagement. According to the report, youth will prove to be a dividend or a serious challenge to the country, depending on how Pakistan invests in their development. To positively impact that policy, youth must be empowered and engaged.

Speakers: Sahar Khan Visiting Research Fellow, CATO Institute

Dr. Adil Najam Dean, Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies, Boston University

Pir Zubair Shah Freelance Journalist

Jumaina Siddiqui, Moderator Senior Program Officer, Asia Center, U.S. Institute of Peace

Wildlife Poaching and Trafficking - Combating a Source of Terrorist Funding Jul 17, 2018

Illegal wildlife poaching and trafficking has destabilized local communities and devastated elephant, rhino, and endangered species populations across Africa. High demand for wildlife products in Asia has driven this surge in poaching and trafficking, threatening the future of these species. Illegal trade in protected wildlife is worth an estimated $7 to $10 billion. This figure places wildlife trafficking among the most lucrative criminal activities worldwide, rivaling the illegal trade in drugs and arms in size and scope. The United States, with support from Congress, has been at the forefront of this push, through legislation like the Congo Basin Forest Partnership Act of 2004 and the END Wildlife Trafficking Act of 2016.

Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, will discuss key successes, challenges, and next steps for U.S. policymakers.

Speakers: Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA) U.S. Representative from California

Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) U.S. Senator from Delaware

Nancy Lindborg President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Senator Jeff Merkley on Violence and Humanitarian Response in Africa Jul 11, 2018

Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) recently returned from a five-country visit to Somalia, South Sudan, Djibouti, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to assess the region’s humanitarian crises while seeking to better understand their root causes. He held over 35 meetings with civil society, refugees living in camps, aid workers, government officials, and U.N. peacekeepers. During his visit, it became clear to Senator Merkley that U.S. diplomatic leadership, development aid, and humanitarian response are critical to addressing the root causes of conflict, climate change and corruption.

Speakers: Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) U.S. Senator from Oregon

Nancy Lindborg, Moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

A Year in the Life of a Peace Teacher Jul 10, 2018

At a time when violent international conflict and the threat of extremism loom large, four high school teachers in Missouri, Montana, Oklahoma, and Florida have spent the last year taking part in a U.S. Institute of Peace program to help their students gain the knowledge, skills and perspectives they need to work toward a more peaceful world.

Three of USIP’s 2017 Peace Teachers will share how they advanced their students’ understanding of conflict and the possibilities of peace in ways that aligned with their existing curriculum. Their stories will reveal how students from very different communities across the U.S. make sense of the world and what they were inspired to do over the past year as part of this USIP program.

Participants: Nancy Lindborg, Welcoming Remarks President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Megan Chabalowski, Introductions Program Officer, Public Education, U.S. Institute of Peace

Joanne Leedom-Ackerman, Moderator American novelist, short story writer and journalist, and Member, International Advisory Council, U.S. Institute of Peace

Amy Cameron Grandview High School, Grandview, MO

Ezra Shearer Sentinel High School, Missoula, MT

Maria Zelaya Eastside High School, Gainesville, FL

Mapping the Role of Religion in Fragile States Jun 29, 2018

From Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani’s influence in the Iraqi elections to the involvement of religious actors in South Sudan’s peace process, the role of religion in conflict zones continues to dominate headlines. Please join field researchers and U.S. Institute of Peace experts on June 26, as they present an approach for mapping the role of religious actors and institutions to better understand their legitimacy and influence in contributing to peace and conflict, exploring findings from three recent mappings from Libya, South Sudan, and Iraq based on work from the field.

Speakers: Col. Paul Hughes, welcoming remarks Acting Vice President, Center for Applied Conflict Transformation, U.S. Institute of Peace

Rev. Susan Hayward, introductory remarks Senior Advisor, Religion & Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Rosarie Tucci, moderator Director, Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Palwasha Kakar Senior Program Officer, Libya Project Coordinator, U.S. Institute of Peace

Monica Pio South Sudan Researcher, Forcier Consulting

Zainab Qassim Networks Manager, Sanad for Peacebuilding, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Ann Wainscott Lead Researcher and Iraq Project Coordinator, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Jacqueline Wilson Lead Researcher and South Sudan Project Coordinator, U.S. Institute of Peace

A Conversation with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova Jun 27, 2018

The U.S. Institute of Peace is proud to host Moldovan Prime Minister Pavel Filip, accompanied by several of his cabinet ministers, for a discussion focused on his country’s foreign policy, regional role, reform achievements, political situation, and efforts to combat Russian influence. It is a critical period for Eastern Europe and a key time for Moldova in light of November's parliamentary elections that will determine the further direction of the country.

Russia - 21st Century Disrupter in Europe - A Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue Jun 20, 2018

For over a decade, Russia’s Vladimir Putin has campaigned to subvert the liberal world order and undermine global norms by invading neighbors and interfering in democratic processes at home and abroad. Without strong leadership from an allied West to push back on Russian ambitions, the postwar order established by the United States and its allies is in jeopardy, and progress made over the last 70 years is at risk of being reversed. The United States must continue to lead on global issues, support democracy, uphold the rule of law, and push back on the disruptive ambitions of revisionist states like Russia.

Speakers: Rep. Francis Rooney (R-FL) 19th Congressional District of Florida, U.S. House of Representatives

Rep. Bill Keating (D-MA) 9th Congressional District of Massachusetts, U.S. House of Representatives

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

The Long Search for Peace in Afghanistan Jun 08, 2018

This event features discussion about the practical steps for the search for peace in Afghanistan. This effort has moved to center stage in recent months following President Ashraf Ghani’s late February peace offer to the Taliban, a series of major international conferences that consolidated support for a peace deal, and a wave of pro-peace demonstrations across Afghanistan. Crucial questions nonetheless remain: What it will take to get the Taliban to join peace talks in earnest? What will a prospective peace agreement look like? How does the peace process affect the Afghan and international military campaign?

Panel 1: Top-Down Peace: Negotiations, the Taliban, and the Shape of a Deal

Steve Brooking, Director of Peace and Reconciliation, United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) Laurel Miller, Former State Department Acting Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Barnett Rubin, Senior Fellow and Associate Director of the Center for International Cooperation, New York University Rahmatullah Amiri, Senior Researcher, The Liaison Office (TLO) Moderator: Johnny Walsh, Senior Expert on Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

Panel 2: Bottom-Up Peace: Militias, Reintegration and Local Accommodations

Michael Semple, Visiting Professor, Institute for the Study of Conflict Transformation and Social Justice, Queen's University, Belfast Kate Clark, Director, Afghanistan Analysts Network Erica Gaston, Non-Resident Fellow, Global Public Policy Institute Nilofar Sakhi, Lecturer, George Mason University Moderator: Scott Worden, Director of Afghanistan and Central Asia Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Closing Remarks with Ambassador Hamdullah Mohib, Afghan Ambassador to the United States

Sudan After the Sanctions Jun 05, 2018

The U.S.-Sudan relationship is at an historic juncture, with the prospect of a broader normalization of relations with the United States coinciding with economic and political turbulence in Sudan. Amid the goals of the U.S. engagement process, the demands of Sudanese citizens for a peaceful, better governed country remain unfulfilled. Join USIP to explore the findings of “Sudan after Sanctions: Sudanese Views of Relations with the United States,” authored by USIP’s Aly Verjee, examining the perceptions and hopes of Sudanese citizens for future relations between Sudan and the United States.

Innovation and Technology in Rule of Law - Afternoon Sessions Jun 01, 2018

Questions about the promises and dangers of technology have recently dominated headlines—but less often covered are the stories of practitioners and start-ups leveraging their know-how to build peace. On May 31, the Justice Sector Training, Research and Coordination Program and the U.S. Institute of Peace will host a symposium to tackle the difficult questions of how technology can be used to strengthen rule of law, security, community engagement, and relationships between states and the people they serve in developing and conflict-affected areas.

Session Two: Innovations in Engagement: From Mobile Apps to Social Media

Rohini Srihari, Moderator Chief Data Scientist, PeaceTech Lab

Jeffrey Aresty President, InternetBar.org

Karen Naimer Director, Program on Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones, Physicians for Human Rights

Antoine Heuty Founder and CEO, Ulula LLC

Zaid Zaid Public Policy, Strategic Response, Facebook, Inc.

Session Three: Innovations in E-Governance: From Case Management to Consensus Building

Andrew Solomon, Moderator Senior Rule of Law Advisor, U.S. Agency for International Development

Jeff Apperson Vice President, National Center for State Courts

Julia Glidden General Manager, IBM Global Business Services - Global Government Industry

Nino Vardosanidze Senior Legislative and Oversight Manager, Good Governance Initiative, Tetra Tech ARD (Republic of Georgia)

Innovation and Technology in Rule of Law - Opening Session Jun 01, 2018

Questions about the promises and dangers of technology have recently dominated headlines—but less often covered are the stories of practitioners and start-ups leveraging their know-how to build peace. On May 31, the Justice Sector Training, Research and Coordination Program and the U.S. Institute of Peace will host a symposium to tackle the difficult questions of how technology can be used to strengthen rule of law, security, community engagement, and relationships between states and the people they serve in developing and conflict-affected areas.

Session One: Innovations in Law Enforcement: Digital Investigative Analysis & Forensic Science: Advances and Setbacks

Lindsay Freeman, Moderator Human Rights Center Research Fellow, School of Law, University of California, Berkeley

Mark D. Mogle Deputy Assistant Director for Forensics, International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program, U.S. Department of Justice

Mark Grantz Assistant to the Special Agent in Charge, Washington Field Office, U.S. Secret Service

Joe Varani Digital Investigative Analyst, Cybercrime Lab, U.S. Department of Justice

Countering Youth Engagement in Violence May 24, 2018

Violent extremism has become one of the major challenges to stability in fragile states, characterized by weak, non-inclusive institutions, and lack of economic opportunity. Youth are often perceived as particularly vulnerable to recruitment into extremist groups. The U.S. Institute of Peace has funded several impact evaluations of peacebuilding interventions over the last few years, including two rigorous evaluations of Mercy Corps’ youth programming in Afghanistan and Somalia aimed at reducing support for armed opposition groups. This discussion will tackle the potential for implementing these programs at scale and its potential effect on broader conflict dynamics in places like Afghanistan and Somalia.

Speakers: Joseph Hewitt, moderator Vice President of Policy, Learning, and Strategy, USIP

Scott Worden Director of Afghanistan and Central Asia Programs, USIP

Aubrey Cox Program Officer, Youth, USIP

Abdullahi Boru Halakhe Senior Officer Policy and Advocacy-Africa, International Rescue Committee

Beza Tesfaye Senior Researcher, Mercy Corps

Can Power-sharing Arrangements Deliver Peace? May 24, 2018

Power-sharing arrangements are often applied as a means to address conflict between two parties. But practitioners and policymakers alike agree that the foundation for such arrangements requires considerable strategy and planning, including articulating clear objectives and expectations. Under what conditions do power-sharing arrangements work? What are the key ingredients to help unity governments succeed? Do power-sharing arrangements build political trust by delivering to citizens?

Speakers: Jeff Helsing Associate Vice President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Rosarie Tucci Director, Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Susan Stigant Director, Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Caroline Hartzell Professor, Political Science Department, Gettysburg College

Matthew Hoddie Associate Professor, Towson University

Clark Letterman Survey Research Specialist, Research Triangle Institute International

U.S.-Georgia Partnership - Conference Panel Two - Strategic Gateway for Regional Expansion May 23, 2018

This year marks the centennial of Georgia’s independence and the establishment of the First Republic in 1918 and the 10th year since the Russian invasion of Georgia in 2008. Please join the U.S. Institute of Peace, Embassy of Georgia and the Heritage Foundation in welcoming The Honorable Giorgi Kvirikashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia, for the Second Annual U.S.-Georgia Strategic Partnership Conference. Renowned experts will explore the current state of regional affairs, focusing on the geopolitical interests of the United States and Georgia.

Panelists:

H.E. Dimitry Kumsishvili First Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia

Mr. Brock Bierman Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia, USAID

Ambassador Elisabeth Millard Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs

Mr. Christian Danielsson Director General for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, European Commission

Mr. Jonathan Katz, Moderator Senior Fellow, German Marshall Fund of the United States

Closing Remarks:

H.E. Levan Izoria Minister of Defense of Georgia

U.S.-Georgia Strategic Partnership - Conference Panel One - Geopolitics and Security May 23, 2018

This year marks the centennial of Georgia’s independence and the establishment of the First Republic in 1918 and the 10th year since the Russian invasion of Georgia in 2008. Please join the U.S. Institute of Peace, Embassy of Georgia and the Heritage Foundation in welcoming The Honorable Giorgi Kvirikashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia, for the Second Annual U.S.-Georgia Strategic Partnership Conference. Renowned experts will explore the current state of regional affairs, focusing on the geopolitical interests of the United States and Georgia.

Keynote Address:

The Honorable Giorgi Kvirikashvili Prime Minister of Georgia

Panelists:

H.E. Mikheil Janelidze Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

Ms. Fiona Hill Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for European and Russian Affairs at the National Security Council (NSC)

Mr. James Carafano Vice President of Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy and the E. W. Richardson Fellow, The Heritage Foundation

Mr. Robert Karem U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs

Mr. Luke Coffey, Moderator Director, Douglas and Sarah Allison Center for Foreign Policy Studies, The Heritage Foundation

Data Democracy - People and Power in the Digital Age May 22, 2018

Nandan Nilekani is the co-founder of Infosys and former chairman of Aadhaar, India’s massive biometric identification system. Join the U.S. Institute of Peace, PeaceTech Lab and emerge85 for a discussion with Nilekani on India’s emerging data economy, which seeks to restore individuals’ control over their personal data while fueling public and private sector innovation.

Exploring this new paradigm is important not just for India. Data is a key focus of international development and governance efforts. Organizations and governments worldwide are harnessing data to improve delivery of goods and services, increase communication, and bolster accountability, but there are challenges.

Speakers: Nandan Nilekani, Featured Speaker Co-Founder, Infosys

Sheldon Himelfarb, Moderator Founder & CEO, PeaceTech Lab

North Korea and the Fine Print of a Deal - A Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue May 22, 2018

The United States is engaged in high-stakes negotiations with North Korea over its nuclear program as the White House prepares for the summit between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un. But nuclear capabilities and missiles are not the only items on the negotiating table. An eventual settlement could include some difficult concessions and require significant oversight and legislative action on the part of Congress.

Both Members of Congress and military veterans, Representative Ted Lieu (D-CA) and Representative Steve Russell (R-OK), will examine the importance of this ongoing diplomatic effort, possible outcomes of negotiations, and the role they hope Congress plays in the coming months at USIP’s third Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue on May 22.

Speakers: Rep. Steve Russell (R-OK) 5th Congressional District of Oklahoma, U.S. House of Representatives

Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) 33rd Congressional District of California, U.S. House of Representatives

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

After ISIS, Will Iraq's Elections be The Next Step to Stability? May 21, 2018

Iraqis just went to the polls to elect a new national parliament. In a surprise turn, a coalition led by controversial cleric Moqtada al-Sadr—a staunch opponent of U.S. influcence in Iraq won the most seats. Listen in as Joshua Johnson, Host of NPR's 1A, leads a panel discussion on Iraq's new leaders and the many challenges they face.

Speakers: Joshua Johnson, Moderator Host, NPR's 1A

Sarhang Hamasaeed Director, Middle East Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Denise Natali Director, Center for Strategic Research, National Defense University

Kenneth Pollack Resident Scholar, U.S.-Middle East Security and Foreign Policies, American Enterprise Institute

Can Inclusive Peace Processes Work? May 18, 2018

Too often, peace processes only include dueling parties—leaving women; religious, indigenous, and ethnic groups; youth; and survivors of violence excluded from critical discussions that shape the future landscape of a country. Yet, sidelining their voices often results in a resurgence of conflict and fails to achieve comprehensive or sustainable peace.

The U.S. Institute of Peace and Conciliation Resources hosted a discussion on overcoming challenges to inclusive peace processes and negotiated settlements. This event furthered policy conversations supported by evidence-based research on inclusion in peace efforts conducted by Conciliation Resources.

The research draws on case studies and local perspectives with local partners from Colombia, Bougainville and Nepal. The event explored how inclusion is negotiated in war to peace transitions, common barriers to and trade-offs between inclusion and stability, and types of external and internal support that have been effective. The findings reflect upon strategies used by different groups, in particular women and other marginalized groups, to influence these processes.

Speakers:

Nancy Lindborg President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Rosarie Tucci Director, Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace

Zahbia Yousuf Senior Advisor, Peace and Transition Process, Conciliation Resources

Sophia Close Senior Advisor, Gender and Peacebuilding, Conciliation Resources

Deepak Thapa Director, Social Science Baha Kathmandu, Nepal

Rosa Emilia Salamanca Director, Institute for Social and Economic Research and Action (CIASE) Bogota, Colombia

Esra Cuhadar JR Senior Fellow, U.S. Institute of Peace

Jennifer Marron Peace Process Advisor, Bureau of Conflict Stabilization and Operations, Department of State

War by Other Means May 07, 2018

Russia’s concerted disinformation campaign against the West is sowing confusion and distrust and undermining democratic institutions from Ukraine to the United States. Anne Applebaum—a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, thought leader and commentator on politics and foreign policy—and U.S. Institute of Peace Executive Vice President William Taylor will discuss the challenges to the West from Russian aggression and the weapons of disinformation and disruption, and what the United States and its allies need to do to respond.

Speakers: Anne Applebaum Washington Post columnist, Pulitzer-Prize winning author and Professor of Practice at the London School of Economics

William Taylor, Moderator Executive Vice President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Time for Action in the Western Balkans May 04, 2018

The Western Balkans—Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Albania, and Serbia—are re-emerging as a region of stagnation and instability due to poor governance, the influence of outside forces and tense relations between ethnic groups and neighboring states. A forthcoming report by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and the EastWest Institute highlights the need for immediate, decisive action by the U.S. and the European Union to head off instability and possible violent strife.

Join the U.S. Institute of Peace to hear from the authors of the report—all veterans of U.S. diplomacy in the Balkans and Europe—as they present a strategy for the United States and Europe, working in a revitalized partnership, to forestall a downward spiral in the Western Balkans, which could potentially lead to fractured states and widespread instability on Europe’s borders.

Speakers: Amb. Sarah Mendelson, Moderator Distinguished Service Professor of Public Policy and Head of Heinz College in Washington, D.C., Carnegie Mellon University, and former U.S. Representative to the Economic and Social Council at the United Nations

Amb. Frank G. Wisner International Affairs Advisor, Squire Patton Boggs and former U.S. ambassador to Zambia, Egypt, the Philippines and India

Jonathan Levitsky Partner, Debevoise & Plimpton, and former Counselor to Ambassador Richard C. Holbrooke at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations

Amb. Cameron Munter CEO and President, The EastWest Institute and former U.S. Ambassador to Serbia and Pakistan

Tom Graham Senior Fellow and Managing Director, Kissinger Associates, Inc.

Afghanistan in 2020: Is Peace Possible? Apr 26, 2018

The search for peace has become a central focus of Afghanistan policy in Washington and for Kabul. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban constitutional reform and status as a legitimate political party in late February on the condition that the group makes peace. In recent months, the Taliban have also publicly offered talks with the United States and prominent Afghan powerbrokers, and high-profile peace demonstrations in conflict-torn Helmand province have spread across much of the country.

Speakers: Ambassador Timothy Carney Former U.S. Ambassador to Sudan and Haiti

John Wood Associate Professor, National Defense University and former U.S. National Security Council Senior Director for Afghanistan

Johnny Walsh Senior Expert, Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace and former U.S. Department of State lead for Afghan reconciliation

Courtney Cooper International Affairs Fellow, Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. National Security Council Director for Afghanistan

Ahmad Mohibi Founder and President, Rise to Peace

Michael Sherwin, Moderator Assistant United States Attorney, U.S. Department of Justice and former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer

Aiding Afghanistan's Economy - Lessons from the U.S. Experience Apr 20, 2018

Since 2001, the United States and international donors have supported Afghanistan in its attempt to build a thriving private-sector economy. Despite 17 years of effort, progress has been mixed and much remains to be done. Please join USIP and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) for a presentation and panel discussion on how the United States can improve its private-sector development and economic growth efforts in Afghanistan and in other states emerging from conflict.

At this report launch event, SIGAR will release its latest lessons learned report, Private Sector Development and Economic Growth: Lessons from the U.S. Experience in Afghanistan. This report examines how the U.S. government supported private sector development in Afghanistan since 2001 through efforts led by USAID, with additional significant roles played by the Departments of State, Defense, Commerce, and Treasury. It discusses the myriad challenges of supporting economic development in Afghanistan and offers key findings, lessons, and recommendations to improve private sector development efforts.

Participants: John F. Sopko, Keynote Address Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction

Scott Worden, Moderator Director, Afghanistan and Central Asia Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

William Byrd Senior Expert, Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

Paul Fishstein Lead Research Analyst, Lessons Learned Program, Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction

Mary Louise Vitelli, Esq. President, Vitelli & Associates, and former advisor to Afghan Ministry of Mines and Petroleum

China and North Korea Conference - War and its Aftermath on the Korean Peninsula - What Role Could China Play? Apr 18, 2018

This panel will discuss the contours of a potential conflict on the Korean Peninsula, to include U.S. operations, how China may respond, and opportunities for cooperation. Participants will also examine Beijing’s role in shaping the post-war situation on the peninsula.

Panelists:

Jennifer Staats, Moderator Director, East and Southeast Asia Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Abraham Denmark Director, Asia Program, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars Lieutenant General Jan-Marc Jouas USAF (Ret.) Former Deputy Commander, US Forces Korea and United Nations Command Korea

Oriana Skylar Mastro Assistant Professor of Security Studies, Georgetown University Jeanne Kirkpatrick Scholar, American Enterprise Institute

China and North Korea Conference - Ambasssador Mark Lippert Keynote Address Apr 18, 2018

With international attention focused on a potential U.S.-North Korea summit meeting in May, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a surprise trip to Beijing in late March to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The North Korean leader’s visit to Beijing, his first foreign visit since assuming power in late 2011, came amid strained bilateral relations in recent years. Kim and Xi appear to have reinvigorated the historical bonds between the two countries and reaffirmed China’s crucial role in the future of the Korean Peninsula. Ambassador Mark Lippert will offer a keynote address that will explore the dynamics and tensions of the historical relationship between China and North Korea, the potential impact of Korean reunification on China, and China’s role in a limited military conflict and its aftermath.

Speakers:

Ambassador Mark Lippert, Keynote Speaker Current member of the Board of Trustees at the Asia Foundation and former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea. Oriana Skylar Mastro, Moderator Assistant Professor of Security Studies, Georgetown University Jeanne Kirkpatrick Scholar, American Enterprise Institute

China and North Korea Conference - Would a Reunified Korea under South Korean Leadership be Positive or Negative for China? Apr 18, 2018

This panel will assess China’s position on the ideal end state for the Korean Peninsula and whether a reunified peninsula under South Korean leadership would be beneficial or detrimental to Chinese economic, political, and security interests given South Korean, Japanese and U.S. likely responses.

Panelists:

Frank Aum, Moderator Senior Expert on North Korea, U.S. Institute of Peace Yun Sun Co-Director, East Asia Program; Director, China Program, Stimson Center

Heung-Kyu Kim Director and Professor of Political Science, China Policy Institute, Ajou University, South Korea

Michael Green Chair in Modern and Contemporary Japanese Politics and Foreign Policy and Director of Asian Studies, Georgetown University Senior Vice President for Asia and Japan Chair, Center for Strategic and International Studies

China and North Korea Conference - China and North Korea Relations Apr 18, 2018

This panel will examine the historical China-North Korea relationship, changes in political and security relations, and role of past and present economic ties on the future of the bilateral relationship.

Panelists:

Dennis Wilder, Moderator Managing Director, Initiative for US-China Dialogue on Global Issues; Assistant Professor of Practice, Asian Studies Program, Georgetown University Stella Xu Associate Professor of History, Roanoke College

Yafeng Xia Professor of History, Long Island University Brooklyn

Junsheng Wang Visiting Senior Fellow, Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, Atlantic Council Director and Associate Professor, Department of China’s Regional Strategy, National Institute of International Strategy, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, China

Countering Illicit Funding of Terrorism - A Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue Apr 17, 2018

Criminal and terrorist networks are exploiting today’s innovative technologies for their own gain, posing a direct threat to U.S. security and global stability. Illicit terrorist financing, including through bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, are now being used to fund terrorist groups and circumvent U.S. sanctions. ISIS and rogue nation-states like North Korea, and regional powers like Iran and Russia, sanctioned for their role in conflicts, may also look to illicit financing in order to exploit the international financial system.

The National Security Strategy for 2018 says the United States will “use sophisticated investigative tools to disrupt the ability of criminals to use online marketplaces, cryptocurrencies, and other tools for illicit activities.” On April 17, Representative Steve Pearce (R-NM) and Representative Jim Himes (D-CT) will discuss the growing threat of illicit exploitation of online terrorist financial networks and steps the U.S. should take to improve security and reduce global conflict. Both members serve on the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Terrorism and Illicit Finance, where Rep. Pearce serves as chairman.

Speakers:

Nancy Lindborg, moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Rep. Steve Pearce (R-NM) 2nd Congressional District of New Mexico, U.S. House of Representatives

Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) 4th Congressional District of Connecticut, U.S. House of Representatives

Hidden Wounds - Trauma and Civilians in the Syrian Conflict Apr 16, 2018

Seven years of conflict in Syria have exacted an enormous human toll and led to widespread physical destruction. The psychological impact of the war, although less visible, has been just as devastating. The levels of trauma and distress impacting Syrian civilians, especially children have been staggering with nearly 500,000 killed, half the population displaced and more than 13 million Syrians in need of humanitarian assistance. The traumatic impact of the Syrian conflict is less often acknowledged, but could significantly impair the ability of Syrian civilians to recover and build a more peaceful future. Join USIP and specialists from the Syrian American Medical Society, the U.S. State Department and Save the Children for a panel discussion, addressing an aspect of the Syrian conflict that often receives less attention than it deserves.

Speakers:

Nancy Lindborg, opening remarks President, U.S. Institute of Peace,

Mona Yacoubian, moderator Senior Advisor, Syria, the Middle East and North Africa, USIP

Catherine Bou-Maroun Foreign Affairs Officer, Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Dr. Mohamed Khaled Hamza Mental Health Committee, Chair; & Foundation Board Member, Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), Professor of Clinical Mental Health, Lamar University-Texas State System

Amy Richmond Director, Child Protection in Emergencies, Save the Children

Colombia Peace Forum - Elections and Peace Processes in Colombia Apr 16, 2018

While threats of violence marred recent legislative campaigns in Colombia, the March 11 election was Colombia’s most peaceful in decades. Although the FARC’s new political party underperformed, its comprehensive demobilization was palpable and the National Liberation Army (ELN), the country’s second-largest rebel group, respected a temporary unilateral ceasefire. For the first time in 50 years, ballots were cast freely throughout the country and not a single incident of violence was recorded.

With the composition of Colombia’s next Congress set, jockeying and coalition-building among the main candidates is fully underway ahead of the May 27 presidential polls. The outcome will have important implications for the precarious implementation of the 2016 FARC peace accord, which has yet to tackle key political and agrarian reforms, and the next president will also have to chart a way forward for the dialogues with the ELN as talks in Quito race against the clock to design a new indefinite bilateral ceasefire and cement the parameters for public participation in future negotiations.

Speakers: Alejandra Barrios Director, Electoral Observation Mission and former President of the Global Network of Domestic Electoral Monitors

Juanita Goebertus Colombian Congresswoman, Former Member of the Government Peace Delegation with the FARC

Mark Schneider Senior Advisor, Center for Strategic and International Studies

Jonas Claes Senior Program Officer, Preventing Election Violence, U.S. Institute of Peace

Steve Hege, Moderator Senior Program Officer, Security & Justice, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ending Civil Wars Apr 13, 2018

As a part of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences’ ongoing project on Civil Wars, Violence and International Responses, the second volume of a special issue of the journal Dædalus was released in January 2018 to explore trends in civil wars and solutions moving forward. Join us as experts discuss their findings and recommendations on how the United States can better respond to intrastate conflict and promote both development and stability to create lasting peace.

Iraq and Syria Panel Three - Fraught Terrain: Stabilizing Iraq and Syria After ISIS Apr 03, 2018

The role of the United States is seen as indispensable throughout the Middle East, and many are looking to understand new directions in U.S. policy in the region in the wake of the counter-ISIS military campaign. U.S. administration and military leaders will discuss the stakes, challenges and requirements of bringing stability to a region in which violence persists and gains against terrorists hang by a thread.

Panelists:

Stephen J. Hadley, Moderator Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

General Joseph L. Votel CENTCOM Commander

Ambassador Mark Green Administrator, U.S. Agency for International Development

Brett McGurk Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, U.S. Department of State

Iraq and Syria Panel Two - Entering the Post-ISIS Era: Iraq and its Neighbors Apr 03, 2018

Beyond Iraq’s domestic post-ISIS challenges, the region is faced with continued conflict and instability, particularly in Syria. This panel will explore developments among Iraq’s neighbors amid continuing tensions in the region. Regional experts will discuss developments in Syria, Turkey, the Arab Gulf states, Iran and Russia and their impact on the region’s post-ISIS landscape.

Panelists:

Kevin Baron, Moderator Founding Executive Editor, Defense One

Dr. Elie Abouaoun Director, Middle East and North Africa Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Mark N. Katz Professor of Government and Politics, George Mason University

Alireza Nader Senior International/Defense Researcher, RAND

Mona Yacoubian Senior Advisor for Syria, U.S. Institute of Peace

Iraq and Syria Panel One - A Pivotal Moment for Iraq Apr 03, 2018

Following Iraq’s defeat of ISIS, the country must manage a web of internal challenges and conflicts, many deepened by the war. As the country prepares for a critical national election, its social fabric is torn by sectarian tensions, the ongoing displacement of over 2 million citizens, and the Kurdistan region’s 2017 independence referendum. The economy is stagnant; corruption is pervasive. Yet Iraqi pride in the military victory against the ISIS extremists has increased nationalist sentiments in many communities. Many hope the victory and the country’s energy shifting into politics would enable positive change. So what is the path ahead? Experts will discuss Iraq’s recovery from ISIS and the country’s future.

Panelists:

Ambassador Alberto Fernandez, Moderator President, Middle East Broadcasting Networks Ambassador Fareed Yasseen Ambassador to the United States, Republic of Iraq

Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman Kurdistan Regional Government Representative to the United States

Sarhang Hamasaeed Director, Middle East Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Securing Their Roles: Women in Constitution Making Mar 29, 2018

Women’s participation in drafting constitutions leads to more equitable legal frameworks and socially inclusive reforms, laying the groundwork for sustainable peace. Yet new research from Inclusive Security reveals that while 75 conflict-affected countries oversaw significant reform processes between 1995-2015, only one in five constitutional drafters in these environments have been women. While there have been slow increases in the number of women involved in constitution-making processes since the end of the Cold War, women still must overcome discrimination and perceived illegitimacy once they have a seat at the negotiating table. Drawing on in-depth case studies, research, and personal experiences, panelists will offer insights on how early action and alliance building have proven useful strategies for overcoming such obstacles, and recommendations for supporting and empowering women in constitution building in the future.

Speakers: Rosarie Tucci Director of Inclusive Societies, U.S Institute of Peace

Palwasha Kakar Senior Program Officer, Religion and Inclusive Societies, U.S Institute of Peace

Marie O’Reilly Director of Research & Analysis, Inclusive Security

Amira Yahyaoui Founder, Al Bawsala

Jason Gluck Policy Specialist, Political Dialogues and Constitutional Processes, United Nations Development Program

Overcoming Violence - A Conversation with Women of Courage Mar 22, 2018

Women are struggling every day for peace and security in their communities, whether as parliamentarians seeking to preserve the constitutional rights of marginalized groups or as filmmakers prompting change through challenging community discourse. To amplify these voices, the U.S. Institute of Peace, with the U.S. Department of State, will host an event featuring three of the 2018 Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage awardees. Participants will hear firsthand the paths these women of courage have taken to lead for positive change.

This event will feature three women working across varied sectors – including politics, rule of law and the media – to advance social justice for all. In order to achieve positive, nonviolent change, entire communities must be engaged – and women and girls are critical to this process.

Participants: Kathleen Kuehnast, Moderator Director, Gender Policy and Strategy, USIP

Roya Sadat Founder, Roya Film House and Founder, Afghanistan International Women’s Film Festival Afghanistan

Sirikan Charoensiri Co-Founder, Thai Lawyers for Human Rights Thailand

L’Malouma Said Deputy (Member of Parliament), Mauritanian National Assembly Mauritania

Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan Keynote Address Mar 22, 2018

Deputy Secretary Sullivan will deliver a keynote address on U.S. Support for Humanitarian Assistance during an invite-only event at the U.S. Institute of Peace. John J. Sullivan was confirmed by the United States Senate and sworn in as the Deputy Secretary of State on May 24, 2017.

Human Rights: The Foundation for Peace Mar 20, 2018

As Co-Chairs of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, Rep. Randy Hultgren (R-IL) and Rep. James P. McGovern (D-MA) play a leading role in advancing international human rights in Congress. The two Members of Congress will draw on their experiences promoting human rights in authoritarian and violent, conflict-affected countries at USIP’s Inaugural Bipartisan Congressional Dialogue.

Panelists: Rep. Randy Hultgren (R-IL) 14th Congressional District of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives

Rep. James P. McGovern (D-MA) 2nd Congressional District of Massachusetts, U.S. House of Representatives

Nancy Lindborg, Moderator President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Foreign Policy and Fragile States Mar 19, 2018

In this discussion, we’ll ask how the United States and the international community can address these national security challenges. How should U.S. assistance be prioritized and allocated? What is the difference between stabilizing a country versus nation building? How can the international community help a country like Syria? What lessons can be learned from efforts in countries, such as Nigeria and Colombia, preventing violence? And ultimately, how can we get ahead of the underlying causes of fragility that lead to and perpetuate violent conflict?

Speakers: Joshua Johnson, Moderator Host, NPR’s 1A

Nancy Lindborg President, U.S. Institute of Peace

Ilan Goldenberg Director, Middle East Security Program, Center for a New American Security

Kimberly Kagan Founder and President, The Institute for the Study of War

Signs of Hope for Afghan Peace Talks Mar 09, 2018

President Ghani’s announcement at last week’s Kabul Process Conference of a peace offer to the Taliban was a potential watershed in the Afghan peace process, and arguably the most forward-leaning plan for peace with the Taliban the Afghan government has ever put forward. Ambassador Alice Wells, the Senior Bureau Official in the Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, leads the Afghan peace effort for the U.S. government and has freshly returned from Afghanistan, where she attended the Kabul Process Conference. Listen to Ambassador Wells speak on the significance of these events, the U.S. government’s potential response, and the outlook for Afghan peace going forward.

How Film Captures the Roles of Women in War and Peace Mar 08, 2018

Every March 8th, International Women’s Day is celebrated worldwide as a time to reflect on the achievements and contributions of women. In 2018, USIP will celebrate the day by hosting an event where filmmakers and policy advocates discuss how film has been an innovative tool for translating policy frameworks into social change. Documentaries and movies can take the tenets of policy frameworks and make them tangible. Civil resistance is most successful when women are engaged, and seeing this in live action can catalyze movements into action. This event will bring together the worlds of film and policy to celebrate the progress that has been made in advancing women’s roles in peace and security, and spreading their stories.

Preventing Conflict to Create Pathways for Peace Mar 06, 2018

Violent conflict today is surging after decades of relative decline. Direct deaths in war, refugee numbers, military spending, and terrorist incidents have all reached historic highs in recent years. Today, the consequences of failing to act together are alarmingly evident, and the call for urgent action has perhaps never been clearer. To answer this call, the United Nations and the World Bank Group are launching their joint study, “Pathways for Peace: Inclusive Approaches to Preventing Violent Conflict” to share how defense, diplomacy, and development should work together to successfully keep conflict from becoming violent.

Inaugural Nelson Mandela Lecture Feb 26, 2018

The U.S. Institute of Peace is honoring Nelson Mandela’s life, work, and passion for peace by establishing the Nelson Mandela Lecture series. His deep commitment to peace continues to inspire our work and imbues us with a spirit of hope that it is possible to overcome all obstacles standing in the way of a better world. As Mandela said, “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” Nelson Mandela embodied much of what the USIP teaches and trains about conflict resolution: an understanding of when and how to negotiate and the courage to assume the ultimate responsibility for peace.

Religion and Countering Violent Extremism Jan 17, 2018

U.N. Peacekeeping is Vital - and so is its Reform Dec 06, 2017

Turmoil Across the Middle East - What Does it Mean? Dec 05, 2017

Is Diplomacy Possible with North Korea? Dec 01, 2017

How to Help Vulnerable States Prevent Their Own Crises Nov 30, 2017

Raqqa After the Islamic State - Governance and Challenges in Post-ISIS Syria Nov 29, 2017

Iraqi Vice President Al-Nujaifi on His Nation's Post-ISIS Future Nov 07, 2017

How to Deal with Pakistan? Oct 18, 2017

Pakistan's Foreign Minister on Relations with the U.S. Oct 05, 2017

After the ISIS Flag Falls - The Future of Mosul and Iraq Jun 27, 2017

Libya Religious Mapping Report Mar 16, 2017

USIP’s Religion & Peacebuilding Center held a public event on March 16th featuring Zahra Langhi from the Libyan Women’s Platform for Peace. At the event, USIP Senior Program Officer Palwasha Kakar and Ms. Langhi offered an overview of the assessment/mapping of Libyan religious actors’ and institutions’ impact on conflict and peace dynamics in Libya.

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