Great Decisions: U.S.-China Relations

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Age Group:

Everyone

Program Description

Event Details

Join America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Great Decisions helps people understand important issues and talk about them in a friendly, guided setting. Participants read short articles, watch videos, and discuss global topics like politics, economics, and culture. 

June 1:  U.S.-China Relations 
Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options? 

June 8:  Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy 
Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics? 

June 15:  U.S. Engagement of Africa 
Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa? 

June 22:  The Future of Human Rights and International Law 
As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?

Participants will have the opportunity to offer their opinions on each topic through an online survey. Attend all four sessions or choose your favorite topics; no registration is required. This is your chance to have your voice heard!

George Sibley retired as a career member of the Senior Foreign Service in May 2022 after over 34 years of service.  His last posting was as the Diplomat in Residence (DIR) for the Mid-Atlantic Region (North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia).  As DIR, he helped identify and guide a diverse cross-section of Americans seeking to represent our country by pursuing career opportunities with the U.S. Department of State.