As the Institute of Current World Affairs marks its 100th anniversary, we’re gathering leading alumni in Washington, DC for a day of discussions examining major challenges facing global society, and key questions for advancing democracy, a sustainable environment, equitability and culture at a pivotal moment in history.
The event is open to the public. Please register to join us in person at the House of Sweden on the Potomac River in Georgetown or via Zoom.
The Institute of Current World Affairs has advanced understanding of global cultures and affairs since our founding in 1925.
Friday, November 14
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET
House of Sweden
2900 K Street, NW
Washington, DC
and via Zoom
THE NEW POLITICAL MOVEMENTS
10:00 A.M. – 11:15 A.M.
A tidal wave of change is transforming the global order and fueling tremendous uncertainty about the future. In a world of new political realities, how do we shore up liberalism in traditional democracies and advance it elsewhere? What do historical perspectives tell us about the current upheavals?
ECONOMIES AND POPULATIONS IN FLUX
11:30 A.M. – 12:45 P.M.
After two decades of post-Cold War globalization, the financial crisis of 2008 helped prompt a backlash against open borders whose full extent is becoming fully realized only today. With tariffs and anti-migration policies dominating the international agenda, how do we advance equitability and human rights in societies in which the chasm between rich and poor is yawning ever wider?
CULTURE ACROSS BORDERS
1:15 P.M. – 2:30 P.M.
In an age of mounting nativism, populism and corruption, in which identity politics are deepening polarization, how can music, art, literature and other forms of culture help bridge national and economic divides? Is it possible to keep high culture accessible to most at a time of rising inequality?
THE ENVIRONMENT AND ADAPTATION
2:45 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
With the devastating effects of climate change starkly apparent to populations around the world, combatting its man-made causes is suddenly facing tremendous challenges just as time to change course is running out. What do we need to know about what’s coming? How must societies adapt? Is it too late for a green revolution?
