# NCAFP | National Committee on American Foreign Policy > Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.4, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. ## Pages ### [Homepage](https://ncafp.org/) **Published:** July 12, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Mosaic_2_with_fade-1.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Mosaic_2_with_fade-1.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Mosaic_2_with_fade-1.jpg) # Diplomacy in Action The NCAFP is a nonpartisan policy organization dedicated to advancing American foreign policy interests through dialogue and engagement. [Our Mission & History](https://ncafp.org/mission-history/) What’s New ## Updates & Activities The NCAFP’s public programs, activities and reports enhance our understanding of world affairs and how they affect American foreign policy. [Explore Our Directory](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/) [Read Post Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-NCAFP-Gala-Materials-1.jpg) [Read Post Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) 10 – 21 Annual Gala ### Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future Tuesday, November 17, 2026Metropolitan Club of New York Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PMAwards Ceremony and Dinner at 7:00PM [Read Post Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy?](https://ncafp.org/resources/susan-a-thornton-featured-interview-do-the-u-s-and-china-still-share-a-north-korea-policy/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/PUBLIC-PROGRAM-YOUTUBE-THUMBNAIL-TEMPLATE-psd-21.jpg) 09 – 15 Media ### Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy? September 15, 2026 About the Program NCAFP’s Susan A. Thornton joins Victor Cha and Johnathan Corrado for an NCUSCR-led interview to discuss the U.S. and China’s diverging policies toward North Korea and who will manage the next crisis on the Korean Peninsula. From NCUSCR: The strategic landscape of the Korean Peninsula is shifting. President Trump’s recent reduction in military exercises with Seoul and his olive branch to \[…\] [Read Post REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-fragile-stability-of-cross-taiwan-strait-relations/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/pic2.jpg) 08 – 03 Reports ### REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanAugust 2026 Although policy uncertainty has increased and communication channels are woefully inadequate, cross-Taiwan Strait tensions appear to have eased in recent months.  At the NCAFP’s most recent session of its longstanding cross-Taiwan Strait Track II senior dialogue with experts from the United States, Mainland China, and Taiwan, there was \[…\] What We Do ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21-TrackII_600x400.jpg) ### Track II Discussions Core to the NCAFP’s mission, we facilitate informal dialogues that support diplomatic efforts with the mission to resolve conflicts peacefully. [ read more ](https://ncafp.org/track-i-%c2%bd-track-ii-diplomacy/) ### Emerging Leaders Programs The NCAFP launched three distinct next-generation programs comprised of emerging specialists to bring new perspectives in foreign policy decision-making. [ read more ](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/) ### Public Education Programs As a nonpartisan policy organization we host a variety of public programs for general audiences to learn and better engage with current affairs. [ Read more ](https://ncafp.org/public-education-programs/) ### Roundtables & Private Events The NCAFP regularly conducts discussions on critical matters of foreign policy, often inviting regional and topical experts to debrief our members and community. [ Read more ](https://ncafp.org/roundtables-private-events/) ### Past Projects Throughout the decades the NCAFP has embarked on numerous programs relating to peace building and international security. [ Read More ](https://ncafp.org/past-projects-from-the-ncafp/) ### Annual Gala Awards We honor a number of esteemed individuals and recognize their contributions to public service, corporate leadership, the arts, and peace building. [ Read More ](https://ncafp.org/annual-gala-awards/) ## How We Engage Through unofficial dialogues (Track I.5 and II), and public education programs, the NCAFP aims to provide influential policy recommendations with the goal of maintaining channels of communication and dialogue, and prioritizing tools of diplomacy and statecraft to resolve international conflicts and diffuse tensions. [Media & Reports](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/) ### Track II Discussions Core to the NCAFP’s mission, we facilitate informal dialogues that support diplomatic efforts with the mission to resolve conflicts peacefully. [ read more ](https://ncafp.org/track-i-%c2%bd-track-ii-diplomacy/) ### Emerging Leaders Programs The NCAFP launched three distinct next-generation programs comprised of emerging specialists to bring new perspectives in foreign policy decision-making. [ read more ](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/) ### Public Education Programs As a nonpartisan policy organization we host a variety of public programs for general audiences to learn and better engage with current affairs. [ Read more ](https://ncafp.org/public-education-programs/) ### Roundtables & Private Events The NCAFP regularly conducts discussions on critical matters of foreign policy, often inviting regional and topical experts to debrief our members and community. [ Read more ](https://ncafp.org/roundtables-private-events/) ### Past Projects Throughout the decades the NCAFP has embarked on numerous programs relating to peace building and international security. [ Read More ](https://ncafp.org/past-projects-from-the-ncafp/) ### Annual Gala Awards We honor a number of esteemed individuals and recognize their contributions to public service, corporate leadership, the arts, and peace building. [ Read More ](https://ncafp.org/annual-gala-awards/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/background-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/background-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/background.jpg) NCAFP in numbers ## Our Impact For thirty years, the NCAFP has been conducting informal  (Track II and 1.5) diplomatic dialogues focused on building peace in Northern Ireland, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and promoting regional security in Northeast Asia. [Our Impact](https://ncafp.org/our-impact/) Convened Over 500 Track II Dialogues Spanning Over Thirty Years ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/impact-icon-1.svg) Hosted Hundreds of Public Education Programs on a Wide Variety of Topics ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/impact-icon-2.svg) Amplified the Voices of 50 Emerging Leaders From Round the World ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/impact-icon-3.svg) resources ## Explore the NCAFP Our written reports, recorded programs, podcasts, past edited volumes and projects exemplify the work of the NCAFP. These are the deliverables from Track II discussions, public education programs, and international delegation trips. [Media & Reports](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/) Read Our Reports Here [Read More](https://ncafp.org/reports/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-1.svg) Announcements from the NCAFP [Read More](https://ncafp.org/media/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-2.svg) Watch Previously Recorded Events [Read More](https://ncafp.org/past-webinars-events/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-3.svg) Browse Our Edited Volumes [Read More](https://ncafp.org/edited-volumes/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-5.svg) Listen to Podcast Episodes [Read More](https://ncafp.org/podcasts/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-4.svg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/join-desktop-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/join-tablet-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/join-mobile-_1_.webp) ### Join the NCAFP Community Through its membership program, the NCAFP keeps members up to date on critical foreign policy issues, and connects them with architects of public policy through an array of events. [Become a Member](https://ncafp.org/become-a-member/)[Donate Now](https://ncafp.org/donate/) --- ### [2026-2027 Cohort Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/2026-cohort/) **Published:** September 4, 2025 **Author:** Ashley Quinonez **Content:** ## Meet Our 2026-2027 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is proud to introduce our fifth cohort of [Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/)! Over the course of the program, this cohort of 9 fellows will engage with their peers, participate in professional development workshops both virtually and in person, and produce policy papers tackling key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. Each fellow will be paired with a senior-level expert from the NCAFP’s network of former government officials and leading scholars. To conclude the program, fellows will deliver papers offering actionable policy recommendations and share their findings on upcoming podcast episodes. An edited volume of the fellows’ work and their podcast episodes will be published in Spring 2027. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/KP-EL-Media-Materials-2026.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Michael-Donmoyer_Resized.jpeg) ### Michael Donmoyer Michael Donmoyer is a Research Analyst in the Regional, Strategy, and Policy Analysis Division at the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA). He served as a U.S. Army officer with assignments to South Korea during the tensions over North Korea’s ICBM launches and nuclear test in 2017 to 2018 and again during the COVID-19 pandemic as a current operations officer on the U.S. Eighth Army headquarters staff. He worked as a China analyst for the U.S. Army Transformation and Training Command G2 and as a research fellow for the U.S. Army Foreign Military Studies Office, where he co-authored two open-source reports on how China and Russia leverage instruments of national power to gain military influence in North Korea. He has also published with 38 North at the Stimson Center on China’s use of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference as a diplomatic channel with North Korea. Michael is a 2026 Korea Society Kim Koo Fellow and an alum of the National Committee on North Korea’s “Knowing North Korea” workshop. Michael earned an MA in International Relations from Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, a Graduate Certificate in Chinese and American Studies from the Hopkins-Nanjing Center, and a BS in International Relations from the United States Military Academy. Prior to graduate school, Michael worked as a management consultant specializing in supply chain and procurement. Michael’s research interests focus on the evolving alliance dynamics in Northeast Asia and their impact on international security in the broader Indo-Pacific. He is particularly interested in China-North Korea relations and the U.S.-Japan-South Korea trilateral. He also studies China’s military modernization and its defense innovation ecosystem. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Syrus-Jin_Resized.jpeg) ### Syrus Solo Jin Syrus Solo Jin is a historian of the US military, foreign policy, and US-East Asian relations. He is currently the Elihu Rose Scholar in Modern Military History at New York University. He earned a Ph.D. with distinction from the University of Chicago. He is currently working on his first book, under contract with the University of Pennsylvania Press, which examines the grassroots dynamics and conflicts of U.S. military assistance and training programs in Asia during the Cold War. His interests lie at the intersection of transnational military networks, diplomacy, race, culture, and understanding foreign policy from the bottom-up. Jin’s public and policy-facing writings have appeared in Foreign Policy, the South China Morning Post, Time Magazine, the Washington Post, Slate, Responsible Statecraft, and with the US Institute of Peace, covering topics such as U.S. foreign policy, military assistance, Japan-ROK relations, global defense industries, and more. Jin previously interned with the Quincy Institute and was a Kim Koo Fellow at the Korea Society. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Jiwon-Kim_Resized.png) ### Jiwon Kim Jiwon Kim is a PhD student in the Human Security Program at the University of Tokyo and a Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholar, specializing in Japan-DPRK relations, North Korean human rights issues, and Korean Peninsula security. His work focuses on how humanitarian and human rights issues can open, or obstruct, diplomatic engagement with North Korea. His doctoral research examines the human rights situation of Zainichi Koreans and Japanese nationals repatriated to North Korea, and his peer-reviewed research on the 2014 Japan-DPRK Stockholm Agreement analyzes why that diplomatic opening collapsed and what it teaches about sustaining engagement. Jiwon brings several years of frontline experience as well. At a North Korean human rights NGO, he designed and led investigations into human rights abuses in the DPRK, interviewing more than 300 North Korean escapees and advocating before Japanese government officials and UN human rights machinery. He later served as a Program Officer on the DPRK portfolio at the International Republican Institute (IRI), overseeing U.S. government-funded programs. He writes regularly for policy audiences, with commentary in Nikkei Asia, The Diplomat, and The Interpreter on Japan-North Korea diplomacy and the prospects for renewed engagement. A Korean national based in Tokyo, Jiwon works across Korean, Japanese, and English, and holds master’s degrees in Public Policy from the University of Tokyo and in International Area Studies from Seoul National University. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Kaitlyn-King_Resized.jpeg) ### Kaitlyn King Kaitlyn King is an International Relations PhD student in the Department of Foreign Policy and Global Security at American University’s School of International Service. Her research focuses on foreign policy decision-making, economic security, and leadership dynamics, with a regional emphasis on East Asia, particularly South Korea-Japan relations and trilateral cooperation with the United States. Her work examines evolving regional dynamics in Northeast Asia, particularly alliance management, diplomatic strategy, and opportunities for regional cooperation. Kaitlyn holds an MA in International Affairs from George Washington University and a BA in International Relations from the University of Southern California. She has worked on a range of East Asian security and foreign policy issues, including with the Stimson Center’s 38 North and Korea Programs, where she conducted research on North Korea, South Korean domestic politics, and US-ROK policy. She also previously interned with the Korea Economic Institute of America, the Council on Foreign Relations, and the Office of U.S. Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaiʻi. As a research assistant with the University of Southern California’s Security and Political Economy Lab, she was a team lead for the International Political Economy project’s work updating and maintaining the World Economics and Politics Dataverse, supporting comparative and international political economy research. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Brice-Lee_Resized-.jpeg) ### Brice Tseen Fu Lee Brice Tseen Fu Lee is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Universiti Malaya and is a Senior Researcher at the Faculty of Government, Universidad del Desarrollo. He holds a PhD in International Politics from Fudan University, an MA in Politics, Governance and Public Policy from the University of Sheffield, an MS in Management and Technology from Universiti Teknologi Brunei, and a BA in Business Administration from Universiti Brunei Darussalam. His research focuses on security studies, international political economy, and development in Southeast Asia and Latin America with a focus on US-China-Southeast Asia/Latin America relations. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Ikhyun-Lee_Resized.jpeg) ### Ikhyun Lee Ikhyun Lee is a Ph.D. candidate in International Relations at American University’s School of International Service. His research focuses on alliance politics, U.S.-China strategic competition, and Indo-Pacific security. His dissertation examines how shifts in the balance of power influence alliance management and cohesion, with particular attention to the policy challenges facing U.S. alliances in an era of strategic competition. His current research combines quantitative analysis and historical case studies to explore the intersection of security and economic statecraft. A paper from this research agenda, examining how U.S. allies responded to economic decoupling from China following the U.S.-China trade war, was accepted for presentation at the 2026 International Studies Association (ISA) Annual Convention. His findings challenge conventional assumptions about alliance alignment and highlight the importance of effective alliance management in achieving long-term strategic objectives. Beyond academia, Ikhyun is committed to bridging rigorous scholarship and practical policymaking. He was selected as one of fifteen Emerging Leaders in a joint initiative hosted by the Korea Economic Institute of America (KEI) and The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation, where he contributed to a collaborative policy report on the future of U.S.-ROK-Japan trilateral cooperation. Originally from South Korea, Ikhyun served as a drill instructor in the Republic of Korea Air Force before pursuing graduate studies. He holds an M.A. in International Relations from Seoul National University and a B.A. in Economics and International Area Studies from Handong Global University. His long-term goal is to produce research that informs both academic debates and policy decisions on U.S. alliances, Korean Peninsula security, and the evolving Indo-Pacific order. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Kokoro-Nishiyama_Resized.JPG) ### Kokoro Nishiyama Kokoro Nishiyama is a PhD student in Global Humanities and Social Sciences at Nagasaki University and a Visiting Researcher at the Research Center for Nuclear Weapons Abolition (RECNA). Her current research examines how the concept of strategic stability in the US–ROK alliance should be reconceptualized in light of emerging technologies, with a particular focus on crisis stability on the Korean Peninsula. She holds a BA from International Christian University (ICU) and an MA in Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey (MIIS). She has worked as a research intern at the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) under the Japan Chair for World Without Nuclear Weapons Initiatives, and as a fellow at the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO). Beyond her academic work, she has contributed to youth engagement in global disarmament efforts, serving as a mentor for the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs Youth4Disarmament (Y4D) initiative and representing Japanese youth at the inaugural Y4D Forum held at United Nations Headquarters. She brings a combination of policy research experience, international engagement, and a commitment to reducing nuclear risks in the Indo-Pacific. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Resized_Joel.JPEG) ### Joel Petersson-Ivre Joel Petersson-Ivre is a Senior Policy Fellow at the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network (APLN) in Seoul. His research interest lies in Northeast Asian nuclear issues, as well as South Korean and Chinese foreign policy. At APLN he has researched regional views of the US-China relationship, threat perceptions among states receiving extended deterrence guarantees from the United States, the domestic South Korean nuclear debate, and engagement strategies with North Korea. His work has appeared in The Diplomat, Korea PRO, Korea Times, East Asia Forum, and the Institute for Security and Development Studies (ISDP). He received his master’s degree from Yonsei University’s Graduate School of International Studies in East Asian Studies and International Security and Foreign Policy, and his Bachelor’s degree in Chinese Language and Culture from Stockholm University. He is an alumnus of the Public Policy and Nuclear Threats Boot Camp, hosted by the University of California: San Diego. He has held internships at East Asia Institute in Seoul and Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Joel is from Sweden but has spent a decade in South Korea. He speaks English, Korean, Chinese and Swedish. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Yuichi-Yoshida_Resized.png) ### Yuichi Yoshida Yuichi Yoshida is the inaugural LEAP (Leaders in East Asia for Peace) Fellow and a Research Fellow at the Research Institute for Advanced Innovation and GeoStrategy (RAIS), both at the International House of Japan (I-House). Established in 1952, I-House is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes intellectual dialogue, policy research, and cultural exchange. Through the LEAP Fellowship, he is currently based at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies in Seoul, an independent, nonpartisan think tank specializing in foreign policy and international security. Yoshida’s research focuses on maritime security in the Indo-Pacific; Japan-ROK relations and U.S.-Japan-ROK security cooperation; and the security implications of critical and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and uncrewed systems. He also studies European and Russian energy security and the foreign and security policies of Central and Eastern Europe. At RAIS, he tracks South Korea’s AI and drone policies and examines opportunities for regional technology and security cooperation. Before joining I-House, Yoshida was a Research Fellow at the Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA), where he worked on Indo-Pacific security and emerging technologies. He led a study group on emerging technologies, organized Track 1.5 and Track 2 dialogues with regional counterparts, and convened expert and public events on drones and cybersecurity. Earlier, he served in the Political Section of the Embassy of Japan in Bulgaria, covering diplomacy, defense, and energy security. In 2026, Yoshida was selected as a member of Japan’s delegation to the Young Trilateral Leaders’ Summit. His recent publications include “Lessons for Japan from Russia’s war in Ukraine” in The Japan Times; the co-authored Nikkei Asia article “Japan can be a hub and ‘guardian’ for the submarine cable system”; and a chapter on Japan in Risk and Threat Perception in the Indo-Pacific. Yoshida earned a BA in Policy Management from Keio University and an MSc in EU Politics from the European Institute at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). --- ### [Our Staff](https://ncafp.org/staff/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Headshot-ES-scaled.jpg) Emily Sparkman Deputy Director, Forum on Asia Pacific Security Emily Sparkman is the Deputy Director for the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, where she manages the organization’s Track I 1/2 and Track II dialogues on security issues in the Asia-Pacific, public events and fundraising events, and next-generation leadership initiatives. Before joining NCAFP, Emily was a Project Manager with the National Bureau of Asian Research in Washington, DC, where she oversaw major events for President’s Circle and research teams. Emily is a member of the National Committee on US-China Relations and a 2024 Kim Koo Fellow. She received her M.A. in Asian Studies from the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University and her B.A. in Humanities and Chinese Language from the University of Texas at Austin. --- ## teamBlockModal1-block\_ad43675b2e2f722c9756e81de740a620Title close modal ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Headshot-ES-scaled.jpg) Emily Sparkman Deputy Director, Forum on Asia Pacific Security --- Emily Sparkman is the Deputy Director for the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, where she manages the organization’s Track I 1/2 and Track II dialogues on security issues in the Asia-Pacific, public events and fundraising events, and next-generation leadership initiatives. Before joining NCAFP, Emily was a Project Manager with the National Bureau of Asian Research in Washington, DC, where she oversaw major events for President’s Circle and research teams. Emily is a member of the National Committee on US-China Relations and a 2024 Kim Koo Fellow. She received her M.A. in Asian Studies from the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University and her B.A. in Humanities and Chinese Language from the University of Texas at Austin. Close Popup ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Staff-Ghanooni_400x400-scaled.jpeg) Amanda Ghanooni Senior Program Manager Amanda Ghanooni is a Senior Program Manager at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She supports public programming, donor relations and communications, and serves as the liaison for the Board of Trustees. Before joining NCAFP, Amanda was a program associate at Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs, where she managed operations, program engagement, and international fellows conferences for Carnegie New Leaders and the Asia Dialogues program (2015-2020). Her additional work experiences include event coordination and research at The New School, NYC Department of Education, and a private geopolitical risk analysis firm. Amanda participated as a Kim Koo Fellow at The Korea Society, served on the Young Patrons Council for Off-The-Record foreign policy forum, and was an Aspen Institute Socrates scholarship recipient.  She holds an M.A. in International Affairs from The New School and a B.A. from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her research has focused on U.S. media, political polarization, and  climate change. --- ## teamBlockModal2-block\_ad43675b2e2f722c9756e81de740a620Title close modal ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Staff-Ghanooni_400x400-scaled.jpeg) Amanda Ghanooni Senior Program Manager --- Amanda Ghanooni is a Senior Program Manager at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She supports public programming, donor relations and communications, and serves as the liaison for the Board of Trustees. Before joining NCAFP, Amanda was a program associate at Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs, where she managed operations, program engagement, and international fellows conferences for Carnegie New Leaders and the Asia Dialogues program (2015-2020). Her additional work experiences include event coordination and research at The New School, NYC Department of Education, and a private geopolitical risk analysis firm. Amanda participated as a Kim Koo Fellow at The Korea Society, served on the Young Patrons Council for Off-The-Record foreign policy forum, and was an Aspen Institute Socrates scholarship recipient.  She holds an M.A. in International Affairs from The New School and a B.A. from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her research has focused on U.S. media, political polarization, and  climate change. Close Popup ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Picture1.jpg) Ashley Quinonez Program Assistant Ashley Quinonez is the Program Assistant for the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She supports the Forum’s Track I 1/2 and Track II dialogues, public events, and next-generation leadership initiatives. Before joining NCAFP, Ashley was a Research and Programs Intern at the Department of Defense’s Near East South Asia (NESA) Center for Strategic Studies, where she contributed to a policy initiative advancing maritime data sharing among Indo-Pacific partners and assisted with the Center’s international security programs. She received her M.A. in International Affairs, with a concentration in Global Security, from Baruch College and her B.A. in International Relations from New York University. --- ## teamBlockModal3-block\_ad43675b2e2f722c9756e81de740a620Title close modal ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Picture1.jpg) Ashley Quinonez Program Assistant --- Ashley Quinonez is the Program Assistant for the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She supports the Forum’s Track I 1/2 and Track II dialogues, public events, and next-generation leadership initiatives. Before joining NCAFP, Ashley was a Research and Programs Intern at the Department of Defense’s Near East South Asia (NESA) Center for Strategic Studies, where she contributed to a policy initiative advancing maritime data sharing among Indo-Pacific partners and assisted with the Center’s international security programs. She received her M.A. in International Affairs, with a concentration in Global Security, from Baruch College and her B.A. in International Relations from New York University. Close Popup ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/LeadershipDefault_400x400.png) Olivia Zeiner-Morrish Program Manager Olivia Zeiner-Morrish is the Program Manager for the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She manages next-generation leadership initiatives and supports the Forum’s Track I ½ and Track II Dialogues. Prior to joining NCAFP, Olivia served as Partnership Program Manager and Research Fellow at Future Forum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where she led research on topics including foreign-funded infrastructure, civil society, and Southeast Asian politics. Olivia previously completed a Fulbright Scholarship in Cambodia. Her additional experience includes mentoring young researchers from Myanmar, supporting business partnerships at Dragonfly – Dow Jones, and internships at the East-West Center and the International Peace Institute. Olivia holds a B.A. in Political Science from Trinity College. --- ## teamBlockModal4-block\_ad43675b2e2f722c9756e81de740a620Title close modal ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/LeadershipDefault_400x400.png) Olivia Zeiner-Morrish Program Manager --- Olivia Zeiner-Morrish is the Program Manager for the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She manages next-generation leadership initiatives and supports the Forum’s Track I ½ and Track II Dialogues. Prior to joining NCAFP, Olivia served as Partnership Program Manager and Research Fellow at Future Forum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where she led research on topics including foreign-funded infrastructure, civil society, and Southeast Asian politics. Olivia previously completed a Fulbright Scholarship in Cambodia. Her additional experience includes mentoring young researchers from Myanmar, supporting business partnerships at Dragonfly – Dow Jones, and internships at the East-West Center and the International Peace Institute. Olivia holds a B.A. in Political Science from Trinity College. Close Popup --- ### [Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## **Korean Peninsula Specialists** This hybrid workshop provides professional development support and mentorship opportunities for rising scholars focused on issues related to Korean Peninsula security studies. The program is designed to help emerging academics translate their research ideas into policy recommendations, and to develop public communications skills. Throughout the workshop, participants attend a series of virtual and in-person roundtables before ultimately publishing a policy paper and podcast episode with Asia-Pacific program director, Susan Thornton. The goal of such a workshop is to build relationships among peers working on relevant security issues and to provide practical tools and exposure to senior-level mentors in the policy field. Past emerging leaders have come from all over the globe, including the U.S., China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Italy, Germany, India, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and others. This program is made possible through the generous support of: - - Korea Foundation - - Carnegie Corporation of New York - - Henry Luce Foundation [learn about our 2026 cohort here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/2026-cohort/) [learn about our 2025 cohort here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/2025-cohort/) [learn about our 2024 cohort here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/next-gen-kp-specialists-2024/) [learn about our 2022 cohort here](https://ncafp.org/resources/next-gen-policy-perspectives-the-future-of-the-korean-peninsula-and-beyond/) [learn about our 2021 cohort here](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) --- ### [Annual Gala Awards Dinner](https://ncafp.org/annual-gala-awards-dinner/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/gala-banner-email-header-1140x356.png) ## **2026 Annual Gala Awards Dinner** **Tuesday, November 17, 2026** **6:00 PM Cocktails \| 7:00 PM Dinner & Program** **The Metropolitan Club** As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy invites you to an evening that honors our nation’s legacy and looks toward the future. This year’s Gala will celebrate the leaders, partnerships, and ideas shaping America’s role in an increasingly complex world. For more than five decades, NCAFP has brought together policymakers, diplomats, business leaders, and scholars to advance diplomacy, dialogue, and international engagement. As we look ahead, these principles remain as important as ever. The evening will recognize visionary leaders whose service, leadership, and commitment to international cooperation are helping build a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure future. Be a part of a memorable evening you do not want to miss. Ticket and sponsorship details below. Secure your spot now. ## **Tickets & Sponsorship** Join us on Tuesday, November 17, 2026 as we honor Denise Murrell, PhD, The Honorable Stephen E. Biegun, and Michael J. Dowling. Individual tickets and table/sponsorship packages are now available. For questions or inquiries, including sponsorship and journal ads, please contact **galatickets@ncafp.org**. [TICKETS ](https://crm.nonprofiteasy.com/6398/Pages/Events/#/Details/13110// ) [NCAFP 2026 – Invite Form](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/NCAFP-2026-Invite-Form.pdf)[Download ](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/NCAFP-2026-Invite-Form.pdf) ## **2026 Honoree Bios** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Add-a-heading-11.jpg) ### **The George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service** **The Honorable Stephen E. Biegun** Former Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun has more than three decades of international affairs experience in government and the private sector, including high-level government service with the Department of State, the White House, and the United States Congress. In 2021, Mr. Biegun concluded his most recent government service as the United States Deputy Secretary of State, to which he was confirmed by the Senate with a strong bipartisan vote of 90–3. In addition to his government service, Mr. Biegun also worked for two decades in the private sector as a corporate vice president with both Ford Motor Company and The Boeing Company. As the State Department’s second ranking diplomat, Mr. Biegun oversaw the full breadth of national security and foreign policy decision-making, reporting to the Secretary of State. He led the State Department response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the evacuation of over 100,000 Americans stranded abroad during the shutdown of travel. His other principal efforts were focused on the Korean Peninsula, US-China relations, the broader Indo-Pacific region, US-Russia relations, Eastern Europe, and arms control. Mr. Biegun began his career as a foreign policy specialist with the United States Congress, with a focus on Russia, the former Soviet Union, and Europe, ultimately rising to a number of senior-level positions including chief of staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and as the national security advisor to Senate Majority Leader. He spent two years as the Executive Secretary of the White House National Security Council, serving as an advisor and deputy to the National Security Advisor. In the early 1990s, Mr. Biegun led a Moscow-based technical assistance program working closely with Russia’s first post-Soviet government. Mr. Biegun serves on the boards of the National Endowment for Democracy and the German Marshall Fund. He graduated from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Russian language and political science. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Add-a-heading-12.jpg) ### **The William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award** **Michael J. Dowling** CEO Emeritus, Northwell Health Michael Dowling is one of health care’s most influential voices, taking a stand on societal issues such as gun violence and immigration that many healthcare leaders shy away from. As CEO Emeritus, he serves Northwell Health in an advisory capacity, supporting the advancement of key public health initiatives, and focusing on teaching and writing. Mr. Dowling served as Northwell’s first president and chief executive officer for more than 23 years before transitioning to his role of CEO Emeritus in October 2025. His extraordinary tenure was characterized by significant growth, industry innovation, and a steadfast commitment to enhancing health for all. Mr. Dowling has been honored with many awards over the years. In 2024, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland presented him with an Honorary Fellowship, the organization’s highest honor that recognizes those who have made significant contributions, and who can inspire future generations of surgical leaders. In 2020, he received the Presidential Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad, which recognizes individuals for their contributions to Ireland and to Irish communities abroad, presented by the President of Ireland. He also received an honorary fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and is a board member of the Foreign Policy Association. In 2025, TIME recognized Mr. Dowling as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Global Health. In 2020, Mr. Dowling received the Deming Cup from the Columbia Business School and was ranked No. 1 on Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare in 2022. In 2017, he served as the Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in NYC. He also chairs the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Prior to joining Northwell in 1995, Mr. Dowling served in New York State government for 12 years. He held several leadership roles, including director of health, education and human services; commissioner of social services, and deputy secretary and chief adviser to former Governor Mario Cuomo. Mr. Dowling was previously a professor of social policy and an assistant dean of Fordham’s Graduate School of Social Services. In addition, he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and a number of honorary degrees from Fordham University, University College Dublin (Ireland) and the prestigious Queen’s University Belfast. Mr. Dowling is a respected author of multiple books, covering both critical healthcare topics and his life story. His works include *Leading Through a Pandemic* (2020) on Northwell’s COVID-19 response, his 2020 memoir *After the Roof Caved In*, and the co-authored *The Aging Revolution* (2024) and *Health Care Reboot* (2018), which explore geriatric health advancements and broader trends in American medicine, respectively. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Add-a-heading-14.jpg) Photo Credit: *Eileen Travell, Metropolitan Museum of Art* ### **The Award for Excellence in Cultural Diplomacy and International Engagement** **Denise Murrell, PhD** Merryl H. and James S. Tisch Curator at Large, Office of the Director, The Metropolitan Museum of Art Denise Murrell, PhD, is the Merryl H. and James S. Tisch Curator at Large, Office of the Director, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. She was the curator of The Met’s 2024 exhibition *The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism*. She curated past exhibitions, including *Posing Modernity: The Black Model from Manet and Matisse to Today* (2018–19) at Columbia University’s Wallach Art Gallery as the Ford Foundation Postdoctoral Research Scholar (2014–19), as well as *Matisse and Martinique: Portraits and Poetry* (2026) as an inaugural visiting curatorial fellow at the Baltimore Museum of Art. She co-curated the *Posing Modernity* exhibition’s expansion at the Musée d’Orsay, Paris, as *Le modèle noir de Géricault à Matisse* (2019) and was a guest lecturer at its final tour as *Le modèle noir de Géricault à Picasso* (2019) at Memorial ACTe in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe. Dr. Murrell was the author of the *Posing Modernity* exhibition catalog (Yale University Press and The Wallach Art Gallery, 2018), which received College Art Association and Dedalus Foundation book awards, and an essayist for the related Musée d’Orsay catalog. She has taught art history at Columbia University in New York and in Paris and has published essays and given public lectures at numerous museums and universities in the US, the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Prior to receiving her art history PhD (Columbia University), she received an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BS degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and had an extended career in finance and consulting, concluding as Managing Director, Institutional Investor Research Group, Euromoney Institutional Investor Plc. Denise Murrell is a member of the National Advisory Board of the Ackland Art Museum at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the External Advisory Committee for the Atlanta University Center art history department. In 2024, Dr. Murrell received the John C. Whitehead Award for Social Enterprise from the Harvard Business School Club of New York. In 2022, she was inducted as Chevalier (Knight) de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government. --- ### [Careers & Internships](https://ncafp.org/careers-internships/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Join our mailing list to be updated on upcoming internship and career opportunities.** [Join Our Mailing List](https://ncafp.org/stay-connected/) --- ### [Annual Gala Awards](https://ncafp.org/annual-gala-awards/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** Each year, the NCAFP honors a number of outstanding individuals for their contributions to foreign policy, corporate leadership, the arts, and beyond. The gala event is the organization’s largest fundraiser, as well as a celebration of its crucial work around the world and commitment to keeping global lines of communication open during the most turbulent of times. Its roster of awards includes: ## The Hans J. Morgenthau Award The Hans J. Morgenthau Award was established in 1981 to commemorate the seminal contributions made by Professor Hans J. Morgenthau to the theory and practice of American foreign policy. The persons honored by this award are those whose intellectual attainments and/or practical contributions to the fields of foreign affairs, international peace, and security have been judged so exemplary in the tradition of Professor Morgenthau as to merit this singular award. Recipients include the Honorable Angier Biddle Duke, the Honorable Sol Linowitz, the Honorable Henry A. Kissinger, the Honorable Jeane J. Kirkpatrick, the Honorable George P. Shultz, David Rockefeller, the Honorable James A. Baker III, the Right Honorable Margaret Thatcher, the Honorable Thomas R. Pickering, His Majesty King Hussein, the Honorable Colin Powell, the Honorable Richard N. Haass, the Honorable Martti Ahtisaari, the Honorable Joseph R. Biden, the Honorable Dr. Robert M. Gates, and Secretary Hillary R. Clinton, Admiral James Stavridis, USN (ret), the Honorable Vaira Vike-Freiberga and the Honorable Robert Rubin. ## The George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service Established in 1994 in honor of George F. Kennan, scholar, diplomat, and statesman, this award honors an American who has served the United States in an exemplary way and has made a seminal contribution to defining and illuminating the national interests of the United States. Recipients include the Honorable George F. Kennan, the Honorable Cyrus R. Vance, the Honorable Paul A. Volcker, the Honorable Richard C. Holbrooke, Maurice R. Greenberg, the Honorable John D. Negroponte, General David H. Petraeus, former New York Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, the Honorable Karl W. Eikenberry, former World Bank President James Wolfensohn, Ambassador William J. Burns, Admiral (ret.) Michelle Howard, Ambassador Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., Ambassador (ret.) Marie Yovanovitch, Ambassador (ret.) Sung Kim, and Ambassador (ret.) Kathleen Stevens. ## The Global Business Leadership Award This award is presented by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy to honor a prominent business leader whose efforts have contributed to setting an unimpeachable standard for globally oriented corporate citizenship promoting the national interests of the United States. Recipients include Paul E. Jacobs, Muhtar Kent, William R. Johnson, Daniel Rose, David Rubenstein, Larry Gagosian, Audrey Choi, and Almar Latour. ## The 21st Century Leader Award The 21st Century Leader Award was created to recognize the achievements of individuals under the age of 40 who display a serious commitment to furthering the strategic policy interests of the United States. Through their professional or personal pursuits, these awardees have made important contributions to the international dialogue and demonstrate a promising future in the realm of American foreign policy. Recipients include John Delury, Nathaniel Fick, Joshua Cooper Ramo, Nancy Walbridge Collins, Abraham Denmark, Marisa Porges, Farhana Qazi, Brendan R. McGuire, Esq., Ronan Farrow and Nicholas Thompson, Lauren Buitta, Shalonda Spencer, and Terrell Jermaine Starr. ## The William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award Established as the Initiative for Peace Award in 1997 in honor of William J. Flynn, NCAFP Chairman Emeritus, for his decisive leadership and daring diplomacy in spurring two cease-fires and promoting the peace process in Northern Ireland, the award, renamed in 2001, is presented to an individual who has worked tirelessly to resolve a conflict that has affected the national interests of the United States. Recipients include William J. Flynn, the Honorable George J. Mitchell, the Right Honorable Dr. Marjorie Mowlam, Viola Drath, the Honorable Hugh L. Carey, Gerry Adams, M.P, Shaun Kelly, President William J. Clinton, Kieran McLoughlin, and John D. Feerick, Esq. ## The Award for Excellence in Cultural Diplomacy and International Engagement This award was established in 2016 to honor the work of an individual who, through professional or personal endeavors, has made an exceptional contribution to advancing the exchange of ideas, values, traditions, and other aspects of the culture of the United States to strengthen relationships, enhance socio-cultural cooperation, and promote the national interest. Recipients include Jo Carole Lauder and Wynton Marsalis. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Admiral_Gala2023_1080x720-New-copy.jpg) Admiral James Stavridis USN ret at the NCAFP 2023 Gala Awards ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AnnualGala-Marsalis-1080x720-1.jpg) Wynton Marsalis performs at the 2019 Gala dinner ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AnnualGala-2_1080x720.jpg) Shalonda Spencer accepting the 21st Century Leader Award at the 2022 Virtual Gala ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AnnualGala-Biden_1080x720.jpg) Antony Vera and Donald Blinken with Vice President Joe Biden at the NCAFP 2019 Gala --- ### [Donate Now](https://ncafp.org/donate/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## Through Your Support! ### Your Contribution Your contribution helps support our public program initiatives, private roundtables, and next-gen scholars who provide extensive reports and analysis. As well, the NCAFP’s Track II dialogues have been the flagship of the organization keeping communication and dialogue open when there is little to no official channel. Our experts publish explanatory reports with sound policy recommendations on diffusing conflict and using the tools of diplomacy and statecraft to resolve international conflicts. Please consider donating to support our important work so we may continue to offer peace-forward mission that is in the interest of U.S. foreign policy. NCAFP is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization, all donations are fully tax-deductible under the Internal Revenue Code. [Donate](https://crm.nonprofiteasy.com/6398/Pages/fundraising/#/1) --- ### [Corporate Engagement](https://ncafp.org/corporate-engagement/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** For over fifty years, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) has been a leading advocate for dialogue — presenting better clarification on complex global issues and building vital communication channels of disagreeing perspectives. As a nonprofit nonpartisan organization, we adhere that finding peaceful resolutions to conflicts is the best foreign policy for America. To achieve our mission, we rely on support from foundation grants, members, and corporate donations. If you are interested in making a corporate donation to the NCAFP or sponsoring a public program, please contact Amanda Ghanooni at <amanda.ghanooni@ncafp.org>. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Corporate-Support-1920-x-1920.jpg) --- ### [Our Leadership](https://ncafp.org/leadership/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is honored to have an esteemed Board of Trustees. Mr. Thomas S. Hexner, Chairman of the Board, presides over the leadership and direction of the organization. --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Hexner-NEW-400.JPG) ](https://ncafp.org/team/thomas-s-hexner/) [ Thomas S. Hexner ](https://ncafp.org/team/thomas-s-hexner/) Chairman of the Board of Trustees --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership_Soderberg_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-nancy-e-soderberg/) [ Honorable Nancy E. Soderberg ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-nancy-e-soderberg/) Vice Chairman --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Elliott-400x400-1.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-susan-m-elliott/) [ Honorable Susan M. Elliott ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-susan-m-elliott/) President and CEO --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership_Eason-400x400-1.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/ray-eason/) [ Ray Eason ](https://ncafp.org/team/ray-eason/) Treasurer --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/LeadershipDefault_400x400.png) ](https://ncafp.org/team/donald-s-rice-esq/) [ Donald S. Rice, Esq. ](https://ncafp.org/team/donald-s-rice-esq/) Senior Vice President --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Landow-400x400-1.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/charles-landow/) [ Charles Landow ](https://ncafp.org/team/charles-landow/) Secretary --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership_Schwab_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/dr-george-d-schwab/) [ Dr. George D. Schwab ](https://ncafp.org/team/dr-george-d-schwab/) President Emeritus --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Shafer-NEW-400x400-1.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-jeffrey-r-shafer/) [ Honorable Jeffrey R. Shafer ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-jeffrey-r-shafer/) Chair Emeritus & Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Warnecke-NEW-400x400-1.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/grace-kennan-warnecke/) [ Grace Kennan Warnecke ](https://ncafp.org/team/grace-kennan-warnecke/) Chair Emeritus & Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership_Adams_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/jacqueline-adams/) [ Jacqueline Adams ](https://ncafp.org/team/jacqueline-adams/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Adelman-400x400-1.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-david-i-adelman/) [ Honorable David I. Adelman ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-david-i-adelman/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Banchoff-picture.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/dr-thomas-banchoff/) [ Thomas Banchoff ](https://ncafp.org/team/dr-thomas-banchoff/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Connorton_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/john-v-connorton-jr-esq/) [ John V. Connorton, Jr., Esq. ](https://ncafp.org/team/john-v-connorton-jr-esq/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Eikenberry-NEW_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-karl-eikenberry/) [ Honorable Karl Eikenberry ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-karl-eikenberry/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Foley_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/bridget-foley/) [ Bridget Foley ](https://ncafp.org/team/bridget-foley/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Leadership-Kim_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-sung-kim/) [ Honorable Sung Kim ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-sung-kim/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Lakhdhir_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/david-lakhdhir-esq/) [ David Lakhdhir, Esq. ](https://ncafp.org/team/david-lakhdhir-esq/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Pickering-400x400-1.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-thomas-pickering/) [ Honorable Thomas Pickering ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-thomas-pickering/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Leadership-Robinson_400x400-scaled.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/alexander-robinson/) [ Alexander Robinson ](https://ncafp.org/team/alexander-robinson/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Thomas-NEW_400x400.jpg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-harry-k-thomas-jr/) [ Honorable Harry K. Thomas Jr. ](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-harry-k-thomas-jr/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Thompson_400x400.png) ](https://ncafp.org/team/nicholas-thompson/) [ Nicholas Thompson ](https://ncafp.org/team/nicholas-thompson/) Trustee --- [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Leadership-Thornton-400x400-1.jpeg) ](https://ncafp.org/team/susan-a-thornton/) [ Susan A. Thornton ](https://ncafp.org/team/susan-a-thornton/) Trustee and Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security --- --- --- ### [2025-2026 Cohort Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/2025-cohort/) **Published:** September 4, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## Meet Our 2025-2026 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists The NCAFP is excited to showcase our fourth cohort of [Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/)! For the next nine months, this cohort of 10 fellows will network with their peers, participate in professional development workshops both virtually and in person, and develop policy papers on key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. Each fellow will be paired with a senior-level expert from the NCAFP’s network of former government officials and leading scholars. As final products, the emerging leaders will produce a paper with actionable policy recommendations and feature in a podcast episode to be published in Spring of 2026. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2025-KP-EL-Headshot-Banner-1.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Derrick-Barksdale.jpg) ### Derrick J. Barksdale Derrick J. Barksdale is an officer in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps. He is currently the staff judge advocate for a patrol and reconnaissance task force in Atsugi, Japan, where he focuses on national security law and administrative law. Before transferring to the JAG Corps, Derrick served as an intelligence officer. As an intelligence officer, he supported tactical, operational, and strategic commands in Africa, the Middle East, and Indo-Pacific. He has significant experience with the Korean Peninsula, having been stationed and deployed in the region. Derrick graduated with a B.A. in philosophy from Washington and Lee University, a M.A. in criminal justice from John Jay College, and a J.D. from the University of Kentucky College of Law. He is currently learning the Korean language to deepen his understanding of Korean culture and politics. His primary research interests are modernization of the U.S.-ROK Alliance and the posture of U.S. forces in the Indo-Pacific region. He is also interested in the legal effects of the 1953 Armistice Agreement and Mutual Defense Treaty and their impact on today’s defense strategies of the United States and South Korea. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Joel_Christoph_photo.jpg) ### Joel N. Christoph Joel N. Christoph is a PhD candidate in Economics at the European University Institute, where he researches international economic cooperation and security policy. His work bridges economic analysis with security studies, focusing particularly on the intersection of economic incentives and conflict prevention. Joel’s policy-oriented research has appeared in venues including the Atlantic Council, where he authored “Governance Reform of the Bretton Woods Institutions,” and various security policy publications. He has received recognition including the Japan-IMF Scholarship and Harvard Kennedy School’s Technology and Human Rights Fellowship. Beyond research, Joel founded 10Billion.org, a movement focused on global public goods, and previously led Effective Thesis, supporting students in impactful research. He has contributed to international policy discussions through roles with organizations including the World Economic Forum Global Shapers Community and the Atlantic Council’s BrettonWoods 2.0 Fellowship. Joel holds multilingual capabilities and international experience, having lived and studied across Europe, Asia, and North America. His unique combination of economic training, security policy expertise, and Korean Peninsula experience positions him to contribute meaningfully to policy discussions on regional stability and cooperation. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hao-Nan-scaled.jpg) ### Nan Hao HAO Nan is currently a researcher on the East Asia affairs at a UAE-based think tank. His work focuses on the intersection of geopolitics, economic security, and technology policy in Northeast and Southeast Asia. Previously, Hao served as Political Affairs Officer at the Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat (TCS) in Seoul, where he coordinated intergovernmental dialogues among China, Japan, and South Korea. He has also held research and practicing roles at the ASEAN-China Centre, Observer Research Foundation, and the Centre for ASEAN Studies in Thailand. His publications have appeared in The Korea Times, Nikkei Asia, ThinkChina, South China Morning Post, and The Diplomat, covering topics such as trilateral diplomacy, North Korea’s strategic calculus, and emerging technology competition. He has also contributed to multilateral reports for the Asia-Europe Foundation and China’s National Development and Reform Commission. Trained in public policy, international law, and Middle Eastern studies, Hao holds degrees from the National University of Singapore, UC Louvain, and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He is an Arms Control Negotiation Academy Fellow, and Nuclear Futures Fellow; and a member of BASIC Emerging Voices Network, and Valdai Discussion Club New Generation Program. Hao’s current research explores “Triple Trilateralism” in Northeast Asia, analyzing how the region’s three overlapping trilateral configurations—U.S.–Japan–South Korea, China–Japan–South Korea, and the emerging China–Russia–North Korea alignment—interact to shape the strategic environment on the Korean Peninsula. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/김세미반명함판.jpg) ### Saeme Kim Saeme Kim is an associate research fellow at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies. Her research focuses on South Korea-Europe relations, multilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, and middle power diplomacy. Dr. Kim is a non-resident fellow at the Korea Economic Institute of America. She was previously a resident fellow at the Royal United Services Institute and a resident fellow at Pacific Forum International. Dr. Kim received her PhD in international relations from King’s College London, her MSc in international relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and her BA from Ewha Woman’s University. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profile-pic_Soo-Jung-Kim-scaled.jpg) ### Soo Jung Kim Soo Jung Kim is a Research Fellow at the Institute of International Affairs at Inha University in South Korea. Her research examines migration governance, citizenship regimes, and postcolonial statecraft in East Asia, with a particular focus on ethnic return migration and the stratification of co-ethnic migrants in South Korea. Her doctoral dissertation interrogated the legal, institutional, and symbolic logics underpinning Korea’s management of Korean-Chinese (Joseonjok) returnees, arguing that such regimes reflect a dual imperative: harnessing diasporic labor under controlled terms while preserving boundaries of national identity and social membership. Situating the Korean case within broader Indo-Pacific dynamics, her work contributes a comparative lens to the securitization of mobility and the instrumentalization of ethnicity in the region. She earned her Ph.D. in International Studies, along with an M.A. in Chinese Area Studies and a B.A. in Anthropology, all from Seoul National University. Her scholarly training combines ethnographic fieldwork, critical migration studies, and policy analysis, and she has presented her research at international academic venues such as AAS-in-Asia and the IPSA World Congress of Political Science. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Il-Kyu-Lee-Headshot-Resized.png) ### Il Gyu Lee Il-Gyu Lee is a doctoral researcher at the Centre for East Asian Studies, University of Turku (Finland). Her research focuses on North Korea’s strategic behaviour, leadership dynamics, and nuclear policy across regimes. Using a constructivist approach, she examines how identity narratives and regime legitimation shape the DPRK’s foreign policy and security posture. She holds an MA in International Relations with a focus on East Asian Studies from the University of Groningen (Netherlands), and a BA in Korean History and Chinese Studies from Kookmin University (South Korea). She also studied Chinese foreign policy and East Asian regional dynamics at Tsinghua University (China). Her broader research interests include regional security architectures, identity politics, and inter-Korean relations. She has presented her work at the Social Science Korean Studies Network (SoKEN) and the 2025 Political Studies Association Early Career Network (PSA ECN), where she received the Best Paper Prize. She is scheduled to present at the 19th Korean Studies Graduate Students Convention (KSGSC). Lee aims to contribute to policy-relevant research on peace, deterrence, and long-term security strategies for the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Park_Headshot-Resized.jpeg) ### Chris Park Chris H. Park is a research associate for the Arleigh A. Burke Chair in Strategy at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). He is a student of strategic studies writing on defense planning and northeast Asian security. Prior to CSIS, he was a graduate research assistant for former deputy director of central intelligence John E. McLaughlin. Chris holds an MA in international relations from Johns Hopkins SAIS and a BA in international studies from Johns Hopkins University, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Ria-Roy-Headshot.jpg) ### Ria Roy Ria Roy is a Kleinheinz Fellow at the Hoover Institution and is a specialist in the history of modern Korea and East Asia. Her doctoral dissertation, which she is currently turning into a book, examined the intellectual and cultural history of North Korea in the context of the Japanese Empire’s legacy, as well as that of the influence of the revolutionary bloc. In particular, she explored the history and development of the leadership succession in North Korea, focusing on the role of intellectuals and their ideas in the generation of the unique North Korean model of leadership. More broadly, she is interested in the interplay between East Asian and European intellectual traditions and how it paved the way for a transition to an illiberal modernity. Roy received her PhD from the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Cambridge as a Gates Cambridge Scholar. She previously received her MA from Harvard University and her BA from Waseda University in Japan. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/FOTO-JPS-001-scaled.jpg) ### Juan Pablo Sims Juan Pablo Sims is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Government at Universidad del Desarrollo, Chile, and a PhD candidate in International Politics at Fudan University. His research centres on the intersection of trade, investment, and security in the Indo-Pacific, with a comparative eye on Latin America’s growing economic ties to East Asia. Juan Pablo’s policy credentials draw on experience as a trade advisor at Chile’s Under-secretariat of International Economic Affairs (SUBREI), where he supported minister-level trade negotiations. This experience informs his academic work on great power competition and the evolving link between economic statecraft and strategic stability. His scholarly publications appear in outlets such as Chinese Political Science Review and Fudan Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences, and his policy commentary is regularly featured in Chilean media. Juan Pablo holds an M.A. in International Relations from the University of Melbourne and is a PhD candidate from Fudan University. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Alessandro-Vesprini.jpg) ### Alessandro Vesprini Alessandro Vesprini is a PhD Candidate in International Cooperation and Area Studies at Pusan National University’s Graduate School of International Studies and President of its Student Council. He is also an Honorary Regional Research Associate for the Indo-Pacific Study Center and a peer reviewer for the Journal of Geoeconomics. His research focuses on the intersection of economics and security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly South Korea’s domestic and foreign policies, regional trade, and the US-China rivalry. His doctoral dissertation examines the economy-security nexus of South Korea’s semiconductor industrial policy. --- ### [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## The NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program *Transforming Ideas into Action* As we mark a quarter-century since the signing of the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement, it’s an important moment to reflect on the hard-won peace that ended decades of open, violent conflict. This historic achievement stands as a testament to resilience, but the journey toward lasting peace and prosperity is far from over. For peace to endure and thrive for future generations, it requires sustained commitment, along with fresh ideas and perspectives. In this spirit, the NCAFP launched its Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program, now in its second year, to empower the next generation of leaders shaping the future. The program equips emerging leaders from the region with the tools, insights, and skills to turn forward-thinking ideas into actionable policy—driving not just peace, but sustainable growth and prosperity for the next 25 years and beyond. **Who are the Emerging Leaders?** Participants are community leaders, scholars, and activists from diverse backgrounds and experiences across Northern Ireland. A university degree is not required, ensuring accessibility for individuals with different perspectives. Participants should have at least three years of experience in community development. Above all, they must bring a unique and well-thought-out policy idea focused on advancing peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland and beyond. [VIEW 2024 EMERGING LEADERS](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2) [VIEW 2025 EMERGING LEADERS](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafps-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=3) [VIEW 2026 EMERGING LEADERS](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Program Elements** - **One-on-One Mentorship:** Emerging Leaders from Northern Ireland receive guidance from leaders in the U.S. as part of NCAFP’s extensive network, which includes diplomats, politicians, lawyers, academics, and policy experts. Notable past and present mentors include **[Ambassador Paula Dobriansky](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/ambassador-paula-j-dobriansky/), [Professor Martin Flaherty](https://www.fordham.edu/school-of-law/faculty/directory/full-time/m-s-flaherty/), [Professor Kevin Kenny](https://as.nyu.edu/faculty/KevinKenny.html), [Charles Landow](https://www.belfercenter.org/person/charles-landow), [Ambassador Nancy Soderberg](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-nancy-e-soderberg/), [Ambassador Barbara Stephenson](https://global.unc.edu/about/our-team/barbara-stephenson/),  [Helena Kane Finn](https://www.humanrightscolumbia.org/profile/visiting-scholars/helena-kane-finn), [John Connorton](https://ncafp.org/team/john-v-connorton-jr-esq/)**, and others. - **On-the-Ground Program Director:** [**Emma DeSouza**](https://ncafp.org/staff/), who leads the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program, works directly in Northern Ireland to organize and manage opportunities for emerging leaders. - **Skill-Building Workshops:** Through virtual and in-person workshops, Emerging Leaders gain hands-on knowledge in political lobbying, media strategy, legislative drafting, and public relations. - **Legislative Immersion:** Emerging Leaders visit key legislative chambers in Belfast and Dublin to experience policymaking in action and talk to politicians. - **Policy Creation & Presentation:** The program concludes with a [final conference](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-conference/?actualPage=3), at which participants present their proposals to policymakers, experts, and influential figures in New York City. The final papers are subsequently [published ](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2024-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=3)online and widely distributed. **Strengthening Transatlantic Ties** A key benefit of the program is its ability to strengthen transatlantic ties, building stronger connections across the Atlantic. It fosters collaboration between leaders in Northern Ireland and the U.S., creating opportunities for mutual growth, innovation, and shared learning. **Local to Global Impact** While participants are from and focused on Northern Ireland, they address a diverse range of issues extending beyond their local context. The cohorts of 2024 and 2025 have focused on topics, including women, peace, and security; educational reform; healthcare policy; human rights law; government reform; rural youth development; and the arts in peacebuilding. Their policy recommendations have initiated important discussions, paving the way for meaningful change. VIEW THE YEAR-1 FINAL REPORT VIEW THE YEAR-2 FINAL REPORT > > “The expansion of the NCAFP Emerging Leaders Network into Northern Ireland follows a series of events marking the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. Building a sustained and prosperous peace requires work, and this program will help participants deliver ambitious, future-focused policy ideas to advance peace, reconciliation, and well-being while strengthening transatlantic relations” – Emma DeSouza, Program Director **Legacy & History**  The NCAFP has a [long history ](https://ncafp.org/our-impact/)of engagement in Northern Ireland, dating back to the early 1990s when the organization played a crucial role in the peace process. In 1994, the NCAFP successfully lobbied the Clinton administration to grant Gerry Adams a 48-hour visa, enabling him to attend a ground-breaking cross-border conference alongside John Hume and John Alderdice. Adams’ first visit to the U.S. led to a ceasefire and allowed him to form critical ties with U.S. leaders, ultimately leading to his participation in peace negotiations that culminated in the signing of the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement in 1998. The NCAFP continues its work in Northern Ireland through the Emerging Leaders Program and various roundtables and events. This effort builds on a legacy of advocacy, policy development, and transatlantic collaboration. This initiative also expanded NCAFP’s [Emerging Leaders Network](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/), which has supported the development of future leaders worldwide. NCAFP’s other regional programs, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, have had similar success in empowering the next generation of scholars, policy practitioners, and advocates. Integrating the Northern Ireland program into this larger network reflects NCAFP’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and preparing young leaders to tackle global challenges with innovative, actionable solutions. > **How to Get Involved** To stay updated on the program, please check NCAFP’s website and social media channels. Program updates and applications for the next cohort will be posted there.  If you want to support this program through donation or by becoming a mentor or partner, please contact our program development officer at shaina.katz@ncafp.org for more information. ### **Highlights**   ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-5.jpg) 2024 Emerging Leaders meet in Dublin ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-8.png) 2025 Emerging Leaders at the induction conference in Belfast ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_2422.jpeg) Emerging leaders at the The Consulate General of Ireland in New York ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-6.png) 2024 Emerging Leaders at the Ireland Mission to the UN ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-7.png) 2024 Emerging Leaders at the British Consulate in NY ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-12.png) Congressman Richard Neal addresses the audience at the 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders conference ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_2504.JPG) Geraldine Byrne Nason Ambassador of Ireland to the US with Susan Elliott PresidentCEO NCAFP ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-9.png) 2025 cohort meets with Mark Daly Senator in Senate of Ireland at Leinster House ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-3.png) Northern Ireland Emerging leaders at the 2024 conference ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-10.png) Kerry Kennedy speaks to Emerging Leaders at 2024 conference in NYC ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-13.png) Michael Dowling speaks on Leading Northwell Health at the 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders conference ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-14.png) Program Director Emma DeSouza leads the 2025 induction conference in Belfast ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_2253-1.JPG) Program participant presents final policy paper ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-15.png) 2024 Emerging Leader Donal Griffin presents his policy recommendations at the NYC conference ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-16.png) 2024 Emerging Leader Judith Atwell presents her policy ideas at the conference in NYC ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_2002-1.jpeg) Emerging Leaders with Fleur Anderson Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland between 2024 and 2025 ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/6AA2D429-5CDF-4AA1-B93A-8B00F5FA9DC5_1_201_a.jpeg) Joe Kennedy III speaks to Emerging Leaders in NYC ***We extend our deepest thanks to the Government of Ireland’s Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, the Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund, the Irish American Partnership, and our entire community of donors and supporters who make this work possible.*** --- ### [Our Supporters](https://ncafp.org/our-supporters/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ### The activities of the NCAFP are sustained by members, foundations, and corporations who believe that dialogue and education are essential to addressing today’s foreign policy challenges. ## Funders The National Committee on American Foreign Policy, Inc. is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit Section 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the resolution of conflicts that threaten U.S. interests. Together with its programs, including the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (collectively referred to as “NCAFP”), it is supported through a diversity of funding sources: individual and corporate membership dues; donations from members and non-members; endowments; grants and donations from foundations, corporations/businesses and government entities. In keeping with its nonprofit and nonpartisan status, the NCAFP carries out its programs in a balanced and impartial manner. The NCAFP seeks funding from known and reputable U.S. and foreign foundations, individual donors, corporations/businesses and select government entities. Knowledge of the donor is critical to good governance of the NCAFP. In keeping with past practice and its commitment to intellectual independence and objectivity, the NCAFP does not solicit or accept funds from donors that seek to influence the outcome of the programs funded or the manner in which they are carried out. The NCAFP endeavors to ensure that all funding complies with applicable U.S. laws, regulations, controls and sanctions and that all solicitations and donations preserve the NCAFP’s objectivity, independence and commitment to advancing American foreign policy interests. The NCAFP also evaluates whether grants and donations are appropriate and beneficial when received, weighing all relevant facts and circumstances. ## Foundations support our project work through short­-term and long-­term grants. The NCAFP is proud to receive the support of the following foundations, among others not listed: - [Carnegie Corporation of New York](https://www.carnegie.org/) - [Ford Foundation](https://www.fordfoundation.org/) - [Henry Luce Foundation](https://www.hluce.org/) - [The Ireland Funds](https://irelandfunds.org/) - [Korea Foundation](https://www.kf.or.kr/kfEng/main.do) - [The Reconciliation Fund](https://www.ireland.ie/en/25-years-of-the-good-friday-agreement/the-reconciliation-fund/) - [Invest Northern Ireland](https://www.investni.com/) - [Irish American Partnership](https://irishap.org/) - [Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund](https://fitzpatrickmemorial.org/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Foundation-Support-1920x1920-1.jpg) ## Corporate Supporters We would like to thank the [Mutual of America Financial Group](https://www.mutualofamerica.com/) for their continued and generous support. Mutual of America has a long history of philanthropy and contributes to vital conference space to support the NCAFP. For more information about our corporate supporters, please send an email to <contact@ncafp.org> or visit our [Corporate Engagement page](https://ncafp.org/corporate-engagement/). --- ### [Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## Fostering Next-Gen Leadership Our work has a long legacy of providing a much needed platform for dialogue in times of global tension. The Emerging Leaders programs create opportunities for the next generation of policy and change-makers in the U.S. and around the world to bring fresh policy perspectives to foreign policy. Today, the NCAFP hosts three distinct Emerging Leaders programs that address an array of critical topics that shape our world: [Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/); [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/); and [Next-Generation Cross-Taiwan Strait Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-cross-taiwan-strait-specialists/). --- ### [Become a Member](https://ncafp.org/become-a-member/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## The NCAFP offers a variety of membership options for all levels of interest At the core of sustaining the National Committee on American Foreign Policy is the support of our members. Joining the NCAFP as a member places one at the forefront of critical foreign policy discussions, and through both our public and private programming allows members to engage with leading scholars, officials and other thought leaders in the world of foreign policy. The continued and growing support of our members allows us to expand our array of programs and to generate thoughtful dialogue by facilitating encounters between those whose careers and interests place them in the diverse worlds of academia, business, international relations, and many more. [Join or Renew Your Membership](https://crm.nonprofiteasy.com/6398/Pages/memberships/#/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Membership_1080x1080.jpg) Amb. (ret.) Marie Yovanovitch signing books at NCAFP member’s program. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-7.svg) ## $50 Student Membership For this low price, the NCAFP connects students (presenting valid ID) to the world of foreign policy through unlimited access to our public programming throughout the year. Student members also have access to all NCAFP reports and publications. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-6.svg) ## $150 Individual Membership Our basic membership package provides free admission to all of our informative public programs for the person holding the membership, in addition to access to all NCAFP reports and publications. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-8.svg) ## $500 Sponsor Membership Sponsor Members have the opportunity to take part in all public programs with one guest. Additionally, Sponsors receive invitations to two private briefings or conferences each year as they become available, or based on the member’s interests. Sponsor members also have access to all NCAFP reports and publications. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-9.svg) ## $1,000 Patron Membership Patrons represent the highest level of individual support for the NCAFP. Patron members enjoy access to all NCAFP public programs with as many as two guests, in addition to invitations to all private briefings and some conferences based on availability. Patron members also have access to all NCAFP reports and publications. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-11.svg) ## $1,000 Academic Institution Membership Academic institutions are also able to join as supporters and may send as many as 10 individuals to any eligible public program (more high-profile events may have slight restrictions). They also receive invitations to 2 larger private briefings based on availability. The Academic Institution also receives access to all NCAFP reports and publications. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-12.svg) ## $5,000 Corporate Membership The NCAFP’s Corporate supporters receive invitations for as many as 5 guests to all public programs, private briefings and some conferences as availability allows. We are happy to publicize the support of Corporate members if requested. Corporate Members also have access to all NCAFP reports and publications. --- ### [2024 Cohort Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/next-gen-kp-specialists-2024/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## Meet Our 2024 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is pleased to showcase our third cohort of Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists! This group of 10 outstanding scholars spent 2024 networking with their peers, meeting with mentors, participating in professional development workshops, and writing policy papers on key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. Each participant produced a policy paper and was featured in a podcast episode published in early 2025. [Read the edited volume here](https://ncafp.org/resources/edited-volume-2024-next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) [listen to their podcast episodes on our spotify channel](https://open.spotify.com/show/4nk4aJqHqKZZd2IFbEdvJG?si=96d6ebd28714417e) To conclude the program, the emerging leaders participated in a public virtual program, where they shared their insights and policy recommendations for the U.S. and South Korean governments on how to address challenges facing the Korean Peninsula. [watch the full program here](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-shaping-the-future-of-security-on-the-korean-peninsula/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/EmergingLeaders-Korean_1080x720.png) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/AlexandreChelsie_400x400.jpg) ### Chelsie Alexandre Chelsie Alexandre is the Policy Program Officer at The Korea Society. She works with the Director of Policy to develop and implement events that address issues shaping the dynamics of U.S.-ROK relations, the Korean peninsula, and Northeast Asia. Before joining The Korea Society, Chelsie received a Fulbright Research award to conduct research in South Korea on the role of middle power countries in the Korean peace process with Korea University’s Peace and Democracy Institute. During her time in Seoul, she also briefly reported on domestic Korean affairs for *The Diplomat*. Prior to her current role, Chelsie was a Partnerships Coordinator at the New York City-based nonprofit, The Concordia Summit, and she worked as a Legal Analyst at the global law firm Kobre & Kim. Chelsie also had previous experience as a research Intern at The Korea Society. She graduated with a B.A. in Politics from Princeton University, with minors in East Asian Studies and Diplomacy. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/AttawatAssavanadda_400x400.jpg) ### Attawat Assavanadda Attawat Assavanadda is a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Politics and Public Administration at the University of Hong Kong and Young Leader at Pacific Forum (a Honolulu-based think tank). I research International Relations and Security of East Asia, with particular interests in the roles of soft power and public diplomacy in regional peace and security. My ongoing Ph.D. project scrutinizes Thai people’s reception of China’s public diplomacy using a mixture of field research, survey experiments, and in-depth interview methods. Prior to doctoral training, I obtained a Master of Arts in International Relations (International Security specialization) from Waseda University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Chulalongkorn University. Professionally, I previously worked as a political analyst at Government House of Thailand, a research assistant at Chulalongkorn University’s Institute of Asian Studies and Thammasat University’s German-Southeast Asian Centre of Excellence for Public Policy and Good Governance (CPG), and a research intern at the University of New South Wales. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Danielsson_400x400.JPG) ### Eric Danielsson Eric Danielsson is a M.A. candidate in Defense Systems Science and assistant at the Swedish Defence University. He has previously been a Research Fellow at the Democracy and New Policy Center researching Mongolian diplomatic, military, and economic policies as well as published a book chapter on Swedish-Mongolian relations. He has previously worked on Korean Peninsula security issues at the Center for Strategic and International Studies Korea Chair, Institute for Security and Development Policy Korea Centre and conducted armament and disarmament research at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Mr. Danielsson holds a Masters in Asian Studies concentrating in Politics and Security from Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Asian Languages and Cultures with a focus Korea from Stockholm University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science focusing on Crisis Management and Security from the Swedish Defence University. He has also attended Kim Il Sung University as the first Swedish exchange student and traveled to the DPRK on several occasions. He has published on book chapters and articles on the Perception of Genghis Khan in DPRK Historiography, Swedish-Mongolian foreign relations, the North Korean Cruise Missile Program, DPRK conceptualization of security and Food in Pyongyang. His main research interests are disaster risk reduction in the DPRK, DPRK military capability development, air and missile defense, CCP espionage, DPRK-Mongolian bilateral relations, Swedish-Mongolian bilateral relations and the security environment on the Korean Peninsula. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IanFlemingZhou_400x400.jpg) ### Ian Fleming Zhou Ian Fleming Zhou is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. His doctoral thesis delves into the interplay between economic sanctions and nuclear proliferation, with a specific focus on counter-proliferation sanctions and their impact on North Korea’s nuclear program. He is an Arms Control Negotiation Academy (ACONA) research fellow (2023-2024 cohort). His commitment to advancing nuclear arms control and disarmament is further showcased by various publications of policy papers, peer reviewed journal articles and opinion pieces and active participation in international arms control forums. Mr. Zhou was a Peaceful Uses Youth Working Group Chair under British American Security Information Center (BASIC)’s Emerging Voices Network during the 10th NPT Review Conference in 2022. He is a former Executive Board Member for BASIC’s Emerging Voices Network. Formerly, he was CTBTO research fellow (2022 cohort). His areas of expertise are arms control, nuclear diplomacy, nonproliferation and disarmament. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CathyKang_400x400.jpg) ### Cathy Kang Cathy Kang is a Ph.D. candidate in International Relations at Sofia University, specializing in international negotiations and security dynamics with a focus on the Korean Peninsula. Raised in Europe and having studied in Korea, Cathy Kang brings a unique multicultural perspective to her studies. Her dissertation examines South Korea’s soft power initiatives and their impact on North-South Korea peace negotiations, highlighting her interest in diplomacy and peacebuilding. Cathy Kang is an advisory member at the Peaceful Unification Advisory Committee where she is contributing to projects on peace and international cooperation through cultural diplomacy. Her work has been recognized at several international conferences, where he has presented her findings on multilateral negotiations and the role of the soft power. In addition, Cathy is a graduate researcher at the Korea Peace Institute where she works together with like-minded graduate researchers on the topic of peace on the Korean Peninsula. Driven by a commitment to enhance understanding and peace regionally and globally, Cathy Kang aspires to contribute to policy-making that supports stability and development in the region. He is particularly fascinated by the interplay of cultural diplomacy and political strategy on the Korean Peninsula. Outside of academia, Cathy enjoys networking, traveling and coffee. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CarolineKearney_400x400.jpg) ### Caroline Kearney Caroline Kearney is a Ph.D. candidate in Korean Studies at Yonsei University and 2023-4 U.S.-Asia Grand Strategy Predoctoral Fellow at the University of Southern California’s Korean Studies Institute. Her dissertation seeks to interpret North Korean foreign policy through state media analysis. Previously, she authored the Month-in-Review publication for *NK Pro*. Prior to that she organized dialogues and workshops on the Korean Peninsula issue at the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPCS) in Cambodia. She is the author of a CPCS report titled “Seizing a Window of Opportunity for Peace on the Korean Peninsula” and has written analysis for the Institute for Security and Development Policy and Jeju Peace Institute. Caroline has participated in advocacy activities to promote peace on the peninsula in Washington, D.C., Brussels, and New York. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/MinseonKu_400x400.JPG) ### Minseon Ku Minseon Ku is the 2023-4 Spencer Fellow in US Foreign Policy and International Security at the John Sloan Dickey Center for International Understanding, Dartmouth College. She is an incoming postdoctoral fellow in the Diplomacy Project at the Global Research Institute at the College of William & Mary for 2024-6. She is working on a book project on summitry and public opinion. Her other research interests include International Relations theory, diplomatic practices, public opinion and rapprochement, US-Northeast Asia relations and inter-Korea diplomacy. Her research has been published in the *International Organization* and the *Hague Journal of Diplomacy.* She has also contributed policy commentaries on Northeast Asia in various outlets including *The Diplomat*, 38 North, *The National Interest*, and the *East Asia Forum*. She received her M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science from the Ohio State University, a Master’s degree and a BA from Yonsei University in Seoul. She was also a visiting junior scholar at the Office of the Korea Chair at CSIS and a research assistant at the National Assembly Budget Office in South Korea. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Jinwon_400x400.jpg) ### Jinwon Lee Jinwon Lee is Ph.D. candidate of Political Science at University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. She served as a researcher at the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy and a research associate at the Korea Institute for National Unification. Her areas of research interest include US-Korea alliance, nuclear weapons, nuclear proliferation, and alliance politics. She received her B.A. in political science and an M.A. in international peace and security from Korea University. She is currently concluding my time as a 2023-2024 Hans J. Morgenthau Grand Strategy Fellow at Notre Dame’s international Security Center. Her doctoral research examines intra-alliance relationship patterns and intra-alliance dynamics’ impacts on each alliance member state’s behaviors. Why do some strong alliance member states provide core alliance commitments to their minor allies while others do not? Among the variety of alliance commitments, she focuses on analyzing a patron’s variance in providing a nuclear umbrella to its minor allies. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Emma_400x400.png) ### Emma Whitmyer Emma Whitmyer is a Program Officer for the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) in New York. She works with ASPI’s Vice President of International Security and Diplomacy Daniel Russel and Associate Director Blake Berger on issues relating to East and Southeast Asia. Prior to joining ASPI, she was a Junior Scholars Fellow with the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A large portion of her background has been focused on the U.S.-ROK alliance and Korean Peninsula affairs. Emma has a Master’s of Global Affairs & Policy from Yonsei University in South Korea, as well as a Bachelor’s from Eastern Michigan University in International Affairs and Business German. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ErinYoon_400x400.jpg) ### Yerin Yoon Yerin Yoon currently serves as a research Fellow at Pacific Forum, where she focuses her research on security issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula, with particular emphasis on the US-ROK alliance and the ROK military affairs. Prior to joining Pacific Forum, Yerin worked as the US foreign policy researcher at the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security (IFANS) of Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During this time, she devoted herself to organizing and hosting domestic & international conferences focusing on the Indo-Pacific strategies and the U.S.-ROK alliance. Additionally, she conducted research and authored reports in support of professors in understanding the U.S. domestic politics and foreign policy, facilitating a connection to Korea’s foreign policy objectives. Yerin gained valuable experience in North Korean research during her Internship at the Institute for Far Eastern Studies (IFES). Analyzing research data from North Korea, she assisted professors in their North Korean affairs and the Korean Peninsula security issues. Her research interests stem from her practical experience as a surface warfare ships officer in the ROK Navy, where she served for five years. Through her military service, she acquired firsthand knowledge and expertise in the field of security, including engagement in a naval combat with a North Korean warship in the vicinity of the Northern Limit Line (NLL) in 2014. Yerin holds dual B.A. degrees in International Relations and Military Science from the Republic of Korea Naval Academy. Driven by her unwavering commitment to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, she is embarking on further studies in Fletcher School at Tufts University this fall. With her diverse background and expertise, she is dedicated to making a meaningful contribution to promoting peace and security in Indo-Pacific region, with a particular focus on the Korean Peninsula and the U.S.-ROK alliance. --- ### [Mission & History](https://ncafp.org/mission-history/) **Published:** July 12, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) was founded in 1974 by Professor Hans J. Morgenthau and others. It is a nonprofit policy organization dedicated to the resolution of conflicts that threaten U.S. interests. Toward that end, the NCAFP identifies, articulates, and helps advance American foreign policy interests from a nonpartisan perspective within the framework of political realism. **The National Committee on American Foreign Policy**, Inc. (NCAFP) helps advance American foreign policy interests from a nonpartisan perspective within the framework of political realism. Founded in 1974 by Professor Hans J. Morgenthau and others, the NCAFP is a nonprofit policy organization dedicated to the resolution of conflicts that threaten U.S. interests. Toward that end, the NCAFP identifies, articulates, and helps advance American foreign policy interests from a nonpartisan perspective within the framework of political realism. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Mission_Morganthau_1080x1080.jpg) Hans Morgenthau, 1953 (public domain) The NCAFP fulfills its mission through Track I 1⁄2 and Track II diplomacy. These closed­-door and off­-the­-record conferences provide opportunities for senior U.S. and foreign officials, subject experts, and scholars to engage in discussions designed to defuse conflict, build confidence, and resolve problems. Believing that an informed public is vital to a democratic society, the National Committee offers educational programs and issues a variety of publications that address foreign policy challenges facing the United States today. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Mission_Schwab_1080x1080.jpg) Dr. George D. Schawb ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-Gala-slideshow.jpg) Play ## Default Video Modal Title × Your browser does not support the video tag. Close Popup ## Historical Impact and Awards The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) was founded in 1974 by Hans J. Morgenthau and others dedicated to the resolution of conflicts that threaten U.S. interests. For the past 50 years, this nonprofit has held fast to its core mission: to identify, articulate, and advance American foreign policy interests from a nonpartisan perspective within the framework of political realism. The National Committee has grown quickly in size and influence. It continues to hold public seminars regularly, publish reports containing summaries and policy recommendations derived from Track II and I.5 discussions, conferences and briefings featuring American and foreign policymakers.  In 1981 the first Hans J. Morgenthau Award was presented to NCAFP president the Honorable Angier Biddle Duke. Subsequent recipients have included the Honorable Henry Kissinger, the Honorable George Shultz, the Honorable James Baker III, the Right Honorable Margaret Thatcher, Secretary of State Colin Powell, David Rockefeller, the Honorable Thomas R Pickering, His Majesty King Hussein, the Honorable Richard Haas, The Honorable Martti Ahtisaari, the Honorable Joseph R. Biden, the Honorable Dr. Robert M. Gates, Secretary Hillary R. Clinton,  the Honorable Dr.Vaira Vike-Freiberga and the Honorable Robert Rubin. A second award, the George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service, was established in 1994. Recipients include Ambassador George F. Kennan, the Honorable Cyrus R. Vance, the Honorable Paul A. Volcker, the Honorable Richard C. Holbrooke, the Honorable John D. Negroponte, and General David H. Petraeus, former New York Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, the Honorable Karl W. Eikenberry, the former World Bank President James Wolfensohn, Ambassador William J. Burns, Admiral (ret) Michelle Howard, Ambassador John Huntsman, Jr., Ambassador (ret) Marie Yovanovich, and Ambassador (ret) Sung Kim. In 1993 William J. Flynn, chairman and chief executive officer of Mutual of America, became the chairman of the National Committee. When the British and Irish governments issued the Downing Street declaration at the end of that year, the National Committee under Mr. Flynn’s leadership placed a full-page ad in The New York Times challenging every party involved in the conflict to attend an NCAFP-sponsored conference in NYC to air the arguments of all sides. The National Committee was instrumental in convincing President Bill Clinton to issue a visa to Gerry Adams, the leader of Sinn Fein. Adams’s first appearance in the United States enabled him to begin to develop ties with key leaders in New York and Washington that gave him and his party the assurance necessary to enter into peace negotiations, sign the Belfast Agreement, and contend for and win political office in the North. In recognition of William Flynn’s achievements, the National Committee established the William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award in 1997. Among the recipients are the Honorable George J. Mitchell, the Right Honorable Dr. Marjorie Mowlam, Viola Drath, the Honorable Hugh Carey, and Gerry Adams, M.P., Shaun Kelly, the Honorable William Jefferson Clinton, Kieran McLaughlin and Dr. John Feerick. Shortly after establishing its Northern Ireland project, the NCAFP launched its Track I.5 and Track II projects on U.S.-China relations and the question of Taiwan. The project gradually grew into the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security. Shortly thereafter, the NCAFP, under this thematic umbrella, sponsored security talks with North Korea on the nuclear issue and, more recently, security issues affecting U.S.-Japan and U.S.-South Korea relations. The entire Forum on Asia-Pacific Security is largely conducted at Track I.5 and Track II levels. Since its founding, the National Committee has focused its attention on significant geopolitical regions such as the Middle East and strategic partnerships such as Transatlantic Relations. As an outgrowth of those studies in the past, the NCAFP established projects on the Caspian Sea Basin and U.S.-UN relations, as well as on Africa. While the Committee’s scope has broadened, it remains anchored to its values: the preservation and strengthening of national security; supporting political, religious, and cultural pluralism; improving U.S. relations with its allies; advancing human rights; curbing nuclear proliferation and encouraging realistic arms-control agreements; and promoting an open global economy. In looking to the future, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy anticipates continued growth and success as it applies the guiding principles of political realism and the sound pragmatism of Track I.5 and Track II diplomacy.  The National Committee has also begun new programs focused on developing the next generation of policy makers. The National Committee also renews its resolve to maintain and promote the philosophy of its founder in the face of an increasingly complex and divisive world, for as Hans Morgenthau wrote in his definitive work, Politics Among Nations, “Diplomacy is the best means of preserving peace which a society of sovereign nations has to offer.” --- ### [Our Team](https://ncafp.org/our-team/) **Published:** July 25, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-6.svg)## Leadership The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is honored to have an esteemed Board of Trustees. Mr. Thomas S. Hexner, Chairman of the Board, presides over the leadership and direction of the organization. Learn More Read more about Leadership ](https://ncafp.org/leadership/) [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-16.svg)## Staff The National Committee of American Foreign Policy staff is an intellectually diverse group covering various research topics, operations, and organizational management. Ambassador Susan Elliott is the President and Chief Executive Officer. Learn More Read more about Staff ](https://ncafp.org/staff/) --- ### [Next-Generation Cross-Taiwan Strait Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-cross-taiwan-strait-specialists/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## Cross-Taiwan Strait Specialists This Track II virtual working group is an initiative of the NCAFP’s Asia-Pacific security program that highlights new and diverse voices and brings them into the NCAFP’s long-established Track II dialogues on cross-Strait relations, especially in the continued absence of official dialogue and limited academic exchanges. The NCAFP maintains a long track record of being a trusted organization to convene participants from all three sides and build trust over the last three decades. It is important to build that same level of trust among the next generation of cross-Strait specialists and Track II practitioners from both sides of the Taiwan Strait. [Explore this and other reports and other related products by visiting our Directory](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/?resources_topic=emerging-leaders&resources_region=taiwan-strait&actualPage=1) [Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/NCAFP-PRC-Taiwan-U.S.-Emerging-Leaders-Track-II-Report.pdf) --- ### [Track I.5 & Track II Diplomacy](https://ncafp.org/track-i-½-track-ii-diplomacy/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Convening unofficial, informal, and non-governmental Track I.5 and [Track II dialogues](https://www.usip.org/publications/2019/07/primer-multi-track-diplomacy-how-does-it-work) aims to reimagine American foreign policy that focuses on mobilizing multipolarity to solve complex global challenges.** ## **Track I.5 & Track II Diplomacy** Track I.5 and Track II diplomacy forms the basis of the NCAFP’s approach to resolving conflicts and promoting America’s strategic interest. This type of diplomacy features a series of candid, off-the-record exchanges between officials, former officials and policy specialists aimed at resolving problems that states are unwilling or unable to address in official dialogue. Former Secretary of Defense William Perry has defined Track II work as a dialogue between non-officials designed to fill the gap in the official dialogue. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/TrackII_1_1080x720.jpg) NCAFP’s Asia-Pacific program staff debriefing guests and members on recent policy recommendations. The NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security conducts a series of Track 1.5 and Track II meetings and conferences on Asia-Pacific security issues to highlight the common interest for stability and progress among the region’s major powers, as well as to provide important channels of communication at a time when trust between major players is extremely low. These events, held under the Chatham House Rule, are attended by prominent former officials, experts, and scholars from the U.S. and the countries of the Asia-Pacific region. The Asia-Pacific program is dedicated to maintaining peace and stability in the region, with specific focus areas on: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-7.svg) ## U.S.-China Relations: Managing mutual mistrust and reopening channels of dialogue aimed to place  the relationship back on a stable path, and understanding regional thinking on great power competition between the U.S. and China. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-8.svg) ## Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations: Reducing miscommunication and miscalculation across the Taiwan Strait by providing the only authoritative channel of security policy communication among scholars from the U.S., Taiwan, and Mainland China. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-11.svg) ## Engagement on North Korea: Addressing the nuclear issue in a multilateral context by working with other members of the Six-Party Talks to discuss differences in the desired approach and end-state of negotiations. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-6.svg) ## The Future of U.S. Alliances: Exploring opportunities and challenges for U.S. alliances in the changing balance of power and better understanding domestic political pressures. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-16.svg) ## Sustaining Regional Peace: Focusing on tools of diplomacy and visualizing institutional reform for addressing 21st-century challenges in economic, social, and political security through existing multilateral and minilateral institutions. Many of these Asia-Pacific conferences are long-term, annual engagement efforts for which we have established high levels of trust and credibility over the past three decades. Our cross-Taiwan Strait project has been running since the missile crisis of the mid-1990s, and our DPRK and China work is similarly long-term in nature. Maintaining these mechanisms for regular dialogue provides a platform for socializing new ideas that take hold over time. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/TrackII-GFA_1080x720.jpeg) Ms. Mary Lou McDonald, President of Sinn Féin, joined NCAFP’s conference in March 2023. ## **The Track II Approach:** In addition to Track II discussions focused on the Asia-Pacific security issues, the NCAFP has also conducted Track II on the Northern Ireland Peace Process. These discussions began in 1994 and continue today more than twenty-five years after the Belfast Good Friday Agreement was signed. Other examples of Track II discussions the NCAFP hosted in the past include a trilateral dialogue among Japan, Russia, and United States, and multilateral discussions focused on Central Asia and the Western Balkans. - Aims to change the attitudes of the parties in conflict by working to break down negative stereotypes and generalizations of the other side resulting from political barriers. - Opens and improves the quality of communication channels between parties in conflict. - Builds not only professional networks but also personal relationships resulting from frank and open exchanges free of the formality of formal dialogues. - Contributes to confidence and trust-building given the private and off-the-record nature of exchanges. - Provides new options for negotiation by generating creative ideas that might not be raised within the context of official negotiations. --- ### [Our Impact](https://ncafp.org/our-impact/) **Published:** July 25, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## The Northern Ireland Peace Initiative Under the leadership of then-Chairman William J. Flynn, the NCAFP directly contributed to the peace process in Northern Ireland. As the first Irish-American chairman of the NCAFP, Flynn was instrumental in persuading President Clinton to grant a 48-hour visa for Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams to attend a ground-breaking cross-border conference with John Hume and John Alderdice hosted by the NCAFP in 1994. The NCAFP committed itself to providing an ongoing forum for the parties to resolve what the organization maintained were not intractable but soluble problems. The Committee fulfilled that commitment despite several shattered ceasefires and protracted and seemingly fruitless negotiations: the Northern Ireland Peace Initiative culminated in the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 and the establishment of the first power-sharing government in the North. The NCAFP maintains an active portfolio of programming in Northern Ireland, and continues to convene political leaders from the region to tackle the most pressing challenges in the post-Brexit landscape. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/History1_400x490.jpg) Most recently, the organization celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement at its daytime conference*, “*Looking Back and Moving Forward.” On this occasion, the NCAFP hosted Northern Ireland’s party leaders and grassroots peacebuilders for a day of political discussions. More recently, the NCAFP launched its [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/), a multi-year project to highlight the analysis and policy recommendations of ten next-generation policy practitioners and scholars who will provide new thinking and insight on the future of peace and stability in Northern Ireland. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Impact-Faps_1080x710.jpg) Cross-Taiwan Strait Track II Discussion. ## On Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations The NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security began its work on cross-Taiwan Strait relations under the leadership of Professor Donald S. Zagoria over two decades ago with traditional shuttle diplomacy between Taipei and Beijing. In the Spring of 2000, cross-Strait relations were under threat of war following Taiwan’s election of President Chen Shui-bian. At the urging of senior State Department officials, the NCAFP was encouraged to visit Taiwan and caution President Chen against any reckless statements that would deteriorate a fragile situation. After visits to both capitals, President Chen gave the NCAFP credit for helping him formulate the ‘Four No’s,’ which were, in effect, a pledge not to declare de jure independence. The NCAFP also provided a forum for then-Mayor of Taipei City, President Ma Ying-jeou, to give a presentation at a cross-Taiwan Strait Track II conference that became the basis of the “1992 Consensus,” a formulation of cross-Strait relations that has allowed both sides to deepen cooperation during the Ma Administration. The NCAFP’s “shuttle diplomacy” and cross-Strait work continues today and was maintained during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the current environment of strained relations, it remains the only consistent channel of Track II communication among participants from the three sides and is relied upon to check signalling and correct misperceptions, increasingly crucial in the absence of official discourse and high U.S.-China tensions. The fact that peace has been maintained across the Taiwan Strait for the last 30 years indicates that efforts made, including through this Track II channel, to reassure all sides and maintain restraints, has been working and must continue. Today, the NCAFP fosters [next-gen specialists](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/) who bring new perspectives to cross-Taiwan Strait issues. This dedicated virtual working group is committed to preserving paths of communication that have been already carved from the important NCAFP Track II work. ![FAPS Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FAPS-emerging-leaders-745x450-1.webp) Conference of Korean Peninsula Emerging Leaders in New York City, December 2023. ## Fostering Next-Gen Leadership Our work has a long legacy of providing a much needed platform for dialogue in times of global tension. The Emerging Leaders programs creates an opportunity for the next generation of policy and change-makers in the U.S. and around the world to bring fresh policy perspectives to foreign policy. Today, the NCAFP hosts three distinct Emerging Leaders programs that address an array of critical topics that shape our world: [Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/); [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/); and [Next-Generation Cross-Taiwan Strait Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-cross-taiwan-strait-specialists/). ## The Six-Party Talks In 2003, the NCAFP began hosting regular Track 1.5 dialogues with delegations from the DPRK’s Foreign Ministry. According to both U.S. and North Korean officials, the NCAFP’s summer 2005 U.S.-DPRK Track 1.5 conference in New York played a “decisive” role in the resumption of the Six-Party Talks in the Fall of 2005, and in the agreement of the Joint Principles reached at that meeting. The NCAFP consults with the U.S. Department of State on appropriate timing for issuing temporary visas to visiting DPRK delegations and has hosted delegations from the DPRK in New York several times over the course of a decade. The last NCAFP Track II was in March 2012 following the Leap Day Agreement. Although continued efforts to engage the DPRK have proved elusive, the NCAFP continues to hold discussions with relevant parties on a way forward on denuclearization and a permanent peace arrangement on the Korean Peninsula. In addition, our [Korean Specialists](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) program provides professional development support and mentorship opportunities for rising scholars focused on issues related to Korean Peninsula security studies. For more information about the NCAFP’s ongoing work on Asia-Pacific security issues, please visit our [Track II program page](https://ncafp.org/track-i-%c2%bd-track-ii-diplomacy/). --- ### [Privacy Policy](https://ncafp.org/privacy-policy/) **Published:** July 12, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## National Committee on American Foreign Policy Our website address: <https://ncafp.org/resources> The NCAFP respects the privacy of its members, and your email address will never be shared or given out to any third party without your expressed consent. When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: <https://automattic.com/privacy/>. 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This cookie includes no personal data and simply indicates the post ID of the article you just edited. It expires after 1 day. ### **Embedded content from other websites** Articles on this site may include embedded content (e.g. videos, images, articles, etc.). Embedded content from other websites behaves in the exact same way as if the visitor has visited the other website. These websites may collect data about you, use cookies, embed additional third-party tracking, and monitor your interaction with that embedded content, including tracking your interaction with the embedded content if you have an account and are logged in to that website. ### **Who we share your data with** If you request a password reset, your IP address will be included in the reset email. ### **How long we retain your data** If you leave a comment, the comment and its metadata are retained indefinitely. This is so we can recognize and approve any follow-up comments automatically instead of holding them in a moderation queue. For users that register on our website (if any), we also store the personal information they provide in their user profile. All users can see, edit, or delete their personal information at any time (except they cannot change their username). Website administrators can also see and edit that information. ### **What rights you have over your data** If you have an account on this site, or have left comments, you can request to receive an exported file of the personal data we hold about you, including any data you have --- ### [Public Education Programs](https://ncafp.org/public-education-programs/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** In keeping with its mission to offer educational programs that address security challenges facing the United States, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy organizes public briefings, panel discussions and lectures by prominent government and former government officials and foreign policy experts. ## The George D. Schwab Foreign Policy Briefings Held under the name of the National Committee’s co-founder, and long-time president, George D. Schwab, this series is designed to generate thoughtful discussion of ongoing foreign policy matters in a balanced, nonpartisan manner from the perspective of the United States. Without limitations in its scope, this series has included briefings on critical cyber and information issues, the Middle East, Russia and U.S.-European relations. To explore more, visit our [past](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/?resources_content_type=past-webinars-events&actualPage=1) and upcoming [events](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/?resources_content_type=upcoming-events&actualPage=1) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/PublicProgram1_1080x720.jpg) --- ### [Events and Special Programs](https://ncafp.org/events-and-special-programs/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** In keeping with its mission to offer educational programs that address security challenges facing the United States, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy organizes public briefings, panel discussions and lectures by prominent government and former government officials and foreign policy experts. ## Public Education Events The NCAFP is nonpartisan and covers a wide range of issues focused on U.S. policy in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Russia.  We have also expanded to cover global governance topics such as climate change, emerging technology and beyond. [Explore Our Upcoming Events](https://ncafp.org/upcoming-events/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Events-1080x720-1.jpg) The late former Ambassador Martin Indyk speaks with students and audience members after the NCAFP program in June 2023. ## Annual Awards Gala Each year, the NCAFP honors a number of outstanding individuals for their contributions to foreign policy, corporate leadership, the arts, and beyond. The gala event is the organization’s largest fundraiser, as well as a celebration of its crucial work around the world and commitment to keeping global lines of communication open during the most turbulent of times. Its roster of awards includes: - The Hans J. Morgenthau Award - The George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service; - The Global Business Leadership Award The 21st Century Leader Award - The William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award - The Award for Excellence in Cultural Diplomacy and International Engagement [Annual Gala Awards Dinner](https://ncafp.org/annual-gala-awards-dinner/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Events-4.4-1080x1080-1.jpg) Dr. George D. Schwab, Co-founder of the NCAFP and President Emeritus, with former U.S. President Bill Clinton during the William J. Flynn Peace Award in April 2023. --- ### [01 - Sample Page](https://ncafp.org/01-sample-page/) **Published:** July 12, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** Introduction. Maximum 50 words per paragraph. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Vitae et leo duis ut diam. Pellentesque elit ullamcorper dignissim cras. Consequat nisl vel pretium lectus quam id leo in. Pellentesque elit ullamcorper dignissim cras. Consequat nisl vel pretium lectus quam id leo in. ## H2. Title lorem ipsum Maximum 50 words per paragraph. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. Duis non neque et neque vulputate aliquet vitae nec libero. Donec pulvinar vulputate tempor. Praesent orci velit, viverra non pulvinar in, pretium sit amet felis. Donec cursus tortor dolor. Vestibulum viverra gravida felis, in varius. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. Duis non neque et neque vulputate aliquet vitae nec libero. Donec pulvinar vulputate tempor. Praesent orci velit, viverra non pulvinar in, pretium sit amet felis. Donec cursus tortor dolor. Vestibulum viverra gravida felis. Donec congue velit vel mattis tristique Text Button ### H3. Title lorem ipsum Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus laoreet elit eu erat finibus, sit amet ultrices neque maximus. Quisque quis est eget erat vehicula auctor a at eros. Cras efficitur dolor vel rutrum finibus. Nulla pellentesque et diam non commodo. Phasellus sit amet condimentum mi. Morbi a est vel eros malesuada vestibulum. Nullam aliquam, justo nec venenatis tincidunt, tortor diam finibus quam, id bibendum. > “Nulla rhoncus tellus est, nec sodales nisl dictum et. Praesent eu turpis sit amet tellus imperdiet convallis. Morbi sapien sapien, aliquam sed elementum vitae, consequat non nunc. Aliquam congue consectetur leo. Morbi dapibus pharetra tempus. Maecenas at mauris pellentesque, elementum ligula non, sollicitudin est. Mauris sed risus et arcu varius sodales id eget orci. Cras venenatis imperdiet sem, ut lacinia lectus.” Aenean ultricies neque eros, ac luctus turpis egestas eu. Vivamus varius libero sit amet dignissim vestibulum. Vivamus eget odio at erat fermentum ultrices sed nec purus. Quisque accumsan egestas volutpat. Proin ut leo ut sapien porttitor dignissim. Nulla pellentesque dui quis ante condimentum tincidunt. 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Text-Only Block with Simple CTA Highlight/ Strong. Maximum 50 words per paragraph. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. Duis non neque et neque vulputate aliquet vitae nec libero. Donec pulvinar vulputate tempor. Praesent orci velit, viverra non pulvinar in, pretium sit amet felis. Donec cursus tortor dolor. Vestibulum viverra gravida felis, in varius. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. Duis non neque et neque vulputate aliquet vitae nec libero. Donec pulvinar vulputate tempor. Praesent orci velit, viverra non pulvinar in, pretium sit amet felis. Donec cursus tortor dolor. Vestibulum viverra gravida felis, in varius. Text #### H4. Title lorem ipsum Maximum 50 words per paragraph. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. Duis non neque et neque vulputate aliquet vitae nec libero. 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Donec pulvinar vulputate tempor. Praesent orci velit, viverra non pulvinar in, pretium sit amet felis. Donec cursus tortor dolor. - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. Duis non neque et neque. Praesent orci velit, viverra non pulvinar in, pretium sit amet felis. Donec mattis erat vel tellus lobortis, a accumsan urna mollis. Phasellus mauris nisi, accumsan non accumsan ac, porta in magna. Curabitur varius augue sit amet sem vulputate, sagittis cursus lacus luctus. Sed viverra vulputate quam. Sed ac felis sit amet justo convallis interdum. Ut vel maximus lacus. Donec ac quam ultricies, aliquet est vitae, ultrices magna. Sed elit quam, tincidunt eu est id. Donec mattis erat vel tellus lobortis, a accumsan urna mollis. Phasellus mauris nisi, accumsan non accumsan ac, porta in magna. Curabitur varius augue sit amet sem vulputate, sagittis cursus lacus luctus. Sed viverra vulputate quam. 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Title lorem ipsum - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. **Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi**. Duis non neque et neque. - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. ##### H5. Title lorem ipsum - [Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit](http://ceal.local/). Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. Duis non neque et. - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. **Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi.** Duis non neque et neque vulputate aliquet vitae nec libero. Vestibulum viverra gravida felis, in varius. - [Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing.](http://ceal.local/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. **Duis non neque et.** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/shutterstock_102617819-1.png) ## H2. Title lorem ipsum Maximum 50 words. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque in aliquam lorem, in blandit mi. 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Headline Lorem Ipsum Donec mattis erat vel tellus lobortis, a accumsan urna mollis. Phasellus mauris nisi, accumsan non accumsan ac, porta in magna. Curabitur varius augue sit amet sem vulputate, sagittis cursus lacus luctus. Sed viverra vulputate quam. Sed ac felis sit amet justo convallis interdum. Ut vel maximus lacus. Donec ac quam ultricies, aliquet est vitae, ultrices magna. Sed elit quam, tincidunt eu est id, blandit Text Read more about H3. Headline Lorem Ipsum ](#) [ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/icon-16.svg)## H3. Headline Lorem Ipsum Donec mattis erat vel tellus lobortis, a accumsan urna mollis. Phasellus mauris nisi, accumsan non accumsan ac, porta in magna. Curabitur varius augue sit amet sem vulputate, sagittis cursus lacus luctus. Sed viverra vulputate quam. Sed ac felis sit amet justo convallis interdum. Ut vel maximus lacus. Donec ac quam ultricies, aliquet est vitae, ultrices magna. 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Sed ac felis sit amet justo convallis interdum. Ut vel maximus lacus. Donec ac quam ultricies, aliquet est vitae, ultrices magna. Sed elit quam, tincidunt eu est id, blandit Text Read more about H3. Headline Lorem Ipsum ](#) --- --- ### [Patern Text Image wrapper](https://ncafp.org/patern-text-image-wrapper/) **Published:** September 24, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ### Chelsie Alexandre ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/AlexandreChelsie_400x400.jpg) Chelsie Alexandre is the Policy Program Officer at The Korea Society. She works with the Director of Policy to develop and implement events that address issues shaping the dynamics of U.S.-ROK relations, the Korean peninsula, and Northeast Asia. Before joining The Korea Society, Chelsie received a Fulbright Research award to conduct research in South Korea on the role of middle power countries in the Korean peace process with Korea University’s Peace and Democracy Institute. During her time in Seoul, she also briefly reported on domestic Korean affairs for *The Diplomat*. Prior to her current role, Chelsie was a Partnerships Coordinator at the New York City-based nonprofit, The Concordia Summit, and she worked as a Legal Analyst at the global law firm Kobre & Kim. Chelsie also had previous experience as a research Intern at The Korea Society. She graduated with a B.A. in Politics from Princeton University, with minors in East Asian Studies and Diplomacy. --- ### [Roundtables & Private Events](https://ncafp.org/roundtables-private-events/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** The NCAFP regularly holds substantive roundtable discussions on urgent matters of foreign policy. Roundtables are conducted under Track II guidelines of confidentiality and non-attribution. ## Examples of recent roundtables include: - **Ambassador Ruairí de Búrca**, Director General for Ireland, UK & Americas in Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, about the current state of Northern Ireland, U.S.-Ireland bilateral relations, and Irish-British relations in the post-Windsor Framework landscape - **Michael Collins**, Executive Director for the Americas at the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP). During this roundtable, Mr. Collins shared his insights, methodology, and reportage on the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) - **Honorable Frank Kendall**, Secretary of the U.S. Air Force joined Ambassador Susan Elliott for a fireside chat about the Air and Space forces global defense priorities, current capabilities and future challenges. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Roundtable_1080x720.jpg) ## Private events have included: - “The Future of U.S. Foreign Policy and Multilateralism,” a fireside chat with U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, **Ambassador** **Linda Thomas-Greenfield** and **Ambassador (ret.) Harry Thomas**, NCAFP Trustee. - “The U.S.-Japan Alliance in a Turbulent World” with **Professor Ken Jimbo,** Professor at the Faculty of Policy Management at Keio University; **Dr. Sheila A. Smith,** John E. Merow Senior Fellow for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations; and **Susan A. Thornton,** Director of NCAFP’s Asia-Pacific security program. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/LTGimage_1080x720.jpg) Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield in discussion with NCAFP Trustee, Ambassador (ret.) Harry Thomas,  June 2024. ### Member-only Programs The NCAFP organizes private events for our Patron and Sponsor members. Please see [membership benefits here](https://ncafp.org/become-a-member/) for your opportunity to join our conversations. - “Shifting Geopolitics in the Middle East” with **Asha Castleberry-Hernandez**, former Senior Advisor to Assistant Secretary of State of Near Eastern Affairs and Kuwait Desk Officer at U.S. Army Central, **Holly Dagres**, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and Editor of *IranSource* and *The Iranist*, and **Ambassador (ret.) Martin Indyk,** the Lowy Distinguished Fellow in U.S.-Middle East Diplomacy at the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. Ambassador to Israel. - “Lessons from the Edge,” a fireside chat with former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, **Ambassador (ret.) Marie Yovanovitch** discussing her memoir with **Ambassador (ret.) Susan Elliott**, President and CEO of the NCAFP. --- ### [Thank you for contacting the NCAFP](https://ncafp.org/thank-you-for-contacting-the-ncafp/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## Thank you for contacting the NCAFP Our team will respond to your message in the order received. We are grateful for your interest and patience. Sincerely, National Committee on American Foreign Policy --- ### [Thank you for joining the NCAFP's mailing list and subscribing to our newsletter and notifications](https://ncafp.org/thank-you-for-joining-the-ncafps-mailing-list-and-subscribing-to-our-newsletter-and-notifications/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## Thank you for joining the NCAFP’s mailing list and subscribing to our newsletter and notifications The NCAFP respects the privacy of its members, and your email address will never be shared or given out to any third party without your expressed consent. To update your preferences, please email <contact@ncafp.org>. Best regards, National Committee on American Foreign Policy --- ### [Past Projects from the NCAFP](https://ncafp.org/past-projects-from-the-ncafp/) **Published:** July 26, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## U.S.-Russian Relations (2016-2019) On March 10-11, 2016 the NCAFP organized a U.S.-Japan-Russia Trilateral Conference at NCAFP Headquarters in New York City. The objective of the trilateral was to explore ways to build on our common interests and to manage our differences. Influential scholars, think tank representatives and former officials from each of the three countries discussed current and future security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region; the Arctic region and possibilities for increased security, environmental and economic cooperation; and Economic development in Eurasia including energy, investment and trade. Events for this previous program included a panel discussion of Russia in a changing energy environment and a conversation between American and Russian experts on challenges to the existing liberal global order. The NCAFP partnered with the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), Moscow. Japanese experts joined us from a number of different Tokyo-based institutions. Following the conference, the National Committee hosted a public program to bring greater awareness to the challenges faced by the three countries who featured in the conference. Moderated by Dr. Thomas Graham, the panel consisted of Ambassador Gleb Ivashentsov, Dr. Stephen Noerper, and Professor Matake Kamiya. ## Middle East (2016-2019) Since its founding in 1974 the National Committee on American Foreign Policy has conducted annual roundtables and public panel discussions on critical issues related to security in the Middle East. Recent areas of focus include the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program and Iran’s role in the region, intrastate conflicts in Syria and Iraq, and the implications of the rise of ISIS and violent extremism for the security of the United States and its allies. Program participants have included NCAFP Trustee Ambassador Thomas R. Pickering; Ambassador Frank G. Wisner; Aaron David Miller, Woodrow Wilson Center; Gary Samore, Belfer Center, Harvard University; Vali Nasr, School of Advanced and International Studies, Johns Hopkins University; Gary Sick, Columbia University; and Warren Hoge, International Peace Institute. ## Cybersecurity Initiative (2010-2019) Both prior and current Administrations have determined that cyber threats represent one of the most serious economic, foreign policy and national security challenges facing the United States. Foremost is competition for Internet dominance now being waged across economic, technical, political and social battlegrounds-and the United States is facing challenges to its influence on all fronts. Cyber warfare is an increasing possibility as witnessed by recent attacks in Estonia, Georgia, Israel and even the In 2010, under the leadership of Vice President Edythe M. Holbrook, the NCAFP launched its Cybersecurity Initiative to study the challenges that cyber poses to U.S. security interests and explore ways best defend our sovereign interests. The Cybersecurity Initiative has produced annual closed-door and off-the-record roundtable conferences and public programs. Experts on cyber security have shared their views on groundbreaking developments in both domestic and international cybersecurity policy and proposed recommendations for both governmental and private sector action. Summaries of policy recommendations made during conference proceedings have been widely disseminated to government, policy, academic, and business communities. Experts in NCAFP activities have included Melissa Hathaway, President, Hathaway Global Strategies; Jason Healey, Nonresident Senior Fellow, Cyber Statecraft Initiative, Atlantic Council; Phil Venables, Chief Information Risk Office, Goldman Sachs; John Stewart, Senior Vice President, Chief Security and Trust Officer, CISCO; Rafal Rohozinski, Founder and CEO, the SecDev Group; the Honorable Philip Verveer, Senior Counselor to the Chairman, Federal Communications Commission; James A. Lewis, Director and Senior Fellow, Strategic Technologies Program, Center for Strategic and International Studies; and the Honorable Franklin D. Kramer, Distinguished Fellow, Brent Scowcroft Center on International Security, Atlantic Council. The NCAFP has also conducted briefings sessions in partnership with West Point’s Army Cyber Institute both in New York and at West Point and has also devoted an entire issue of its flagship publication, *American Foreign Policy Interests*, to cybersecurity. --- ### [Contact Us](https://ncafp.org/contact-us/) **Published:** July 12, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** The National Committee on American Foreign Policy welcomes your questions and comments. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us by completing the form below or by calling [(516) 403-4512](tel:5164034512). We are located in the historic building of 400 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017, an official landmark designated by The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission in 2016. [Consider becoming a member and joining today!](https://ncafp.org/become-a-member/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/StayConnected-400Madison_1080x1080.jpg) ## Contact Form Δ Name(Required) First Name Last Name Email Address(Required) Title Affiliation Media Inquiry Message(Required) Submit --- ### [Upcoming Events](https://ncafp.org/upcoming-events/) **Published:** August 13, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Upcoming Events Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-NCAFP-Gala-Materials-1.jpg) ## Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future Tuesday, November 17, 2026Metropolitan Club of New York Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PMAwards Ceremony and Dinner at 7:00PM - Annual Gala - Events - Media - Upcoming Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) ## Posts navigation [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [Sitemap](https://ncafp.org/sitemap/) **Published:** August 13, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support --- ### [Podcasts](https://ncafp.org/podcasts/) **Published:** August 13, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Podcasts Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-5.jpg) ## LISTEN: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Summer Podcast Series Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Podcast: A Two-Part Summer Series June 2026 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program Director Emma DeSouza brings together alumni from across three cohorts to interrogate the defining challenges of post-conflict Northern Ireland — from institutional reform to rights, health, and the next generation of leadership. Episode 1: Building Capacity for the Future: Health, Talent and Smarter Government Emma DeSouza speaks with Austin Orr and Caolan Rooney about the structural pressures now bearing down on post-conflict institutions: an ageing population, an overstretched health and social care system, and the near-impossible task of long-term policymaking inside short-term political cycles…. - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-summer-podcast-series/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: Shifting Perspectives: Redefining Track II Diplomacy to Re-engage North Korea With Cathy KangIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/2k5TPAgVvp7QZ5lxmChhIq?si=tQLGzOY0R4-1Q2KrUz4ACg Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Cathy Kang to discuss her research into European-led Track II diplomacy with North Korea. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program . Cathy KANG is a PhD candidate in International Relations at Sofia University, specializing in international negotiations and security dynamics with a focus on the… - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-shifting-perspectives-redefining-track-ii-diplomacy-to-re-engage-north-korea/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: Swedish Exchange Student Studying in North Korea With Erik DanielssonIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/4SqVuetCEHLlxcQar7BAza?si=dac4ae2db03c4299 Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Erik Danielsson, MA candidate at the Swedish Defence University, to discuss his experience as a Swedish exchange student studying at Kim Il Sung University in Pyongyang, North Korea. He goes into details about what his day-to-day was like, giving listeners an exclusive look into what life is like for an exchange student studying in North Korea. - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-swedish-exchange-student-studying-in-north-korea/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: Who Should Speak for South Korea? Invigorating South Korea’s Unification Diplomacy Efforts in the U.S. With Minseon KuIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/3IOcddROS3XRSzjYADZilq?si=b50a43c7918f4ac4 Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Minseon Ku, Postdoctoral Fellow at William and Mary, to discuss her research into South Korea's unification diplomacy efforts in the U.S. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program . Minseon KU is Postdoctoral Fellow with the Diplomacy Project at William & Mary’s Global Research Institute and an incoming Assistant… - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-who-should-speak-for-south-korea/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: Restructuring the Agenda: Shifting U.S.-DPRK Talks Toward Nuclear Safety With Caroline KearneyIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/3HSVO8pBv8HF57s72tncEl?si=eab6fe8691e04b95 Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Caroline Kearney to discuss her research into why the U.S. should have a new approach to negotiations with the DPRK, by changing the objective of talks from denuclearization to nuclear safety. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program . Caroline KEARNEY is a Ph.D. candidate in Korean… - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-restructuring-the-agenda-shifting-us-dprk-talks-toward-nuclear-safety/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: How Do Joint Military Exercises Under the Nuclear Umbrella Affect South Korea’s Stance on Nuclear Proliferation? With Jinwon LeeIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/7INLcyzSgsuwCdX3mZjwbX?si=e93a6ff95cf646cc Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Jinwon Lee to discuss her research on the affect that U.S.-ROK Joint Military Exercises have on public opinion on nuclear weapons development in South Korea. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program . Jinwon LEE is Ph.D. candidate of Political Science at University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. She served as… - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-joint-military-exercises-nuclear-umbrella/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: Strategic Pathways for South Korea in Taiwan Contingency Scenarios Strategic Pathways for South Korea in Taiwan Contingency Scenarios With Yerin YoonIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/5OUKnwq4u1tguOWK1nB0qE?si=FReRf8MpRbSWq\_CZ1a-1yw Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Yerin Yoon to discuss her research into the impact of a Taiwan contingency on the security architecture of the Korean Peninsula. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program . Yerin YOON is currently a graduate… - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-strategic-pathways-for-south-korea-in-taiwan-contingency-scenarios/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: Soft Power, Deterrence, and South Korea’s National Security Soft Power, Deterrence, and South Korea's National Security With Attawat AssavanaddaIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/0qIUSKaVQHum9QRvA99nFE?si=x7\_ay0OtQIu-zCBfljahgg Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Attawat Assavannadda to discuss his research on the role that soft power plays on South Korean national security. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program . Attawat Joseph Ma ASSAVANADDA is… - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-soft-power-deterrence-rok-national-security/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/KPELPod3Web.jpg) ## LISTEN: Coordinating with the Quad: A Case for South Korea’s Involvement at the Working Group Level Coordinating with the Quad: A Case for South Korea’s Involvement at the Working Group Level With Emma WhitmyerIn conversation with Susan A. ThorntonNovember 2024 https://open.spotify.com/episode/49jCsQi4R9J5vXtQ7vSk09?si=05BHHYoCQJO9Pl8TaUy2fA Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP's program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Emma Whitmyer, Senior Program Office at the Asia Society Policy Institute, to discuss her research into why South Korea should pursue engagement and cooperation with the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue and what that engagement should look like. - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-coordinating-with-the-quad/) ## Posts navigation 1[2](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[3](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)…[5](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/5/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[Next »](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625) [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [Edited Volumes](https://ncafp.org/edited-volumes/) **Published:** August 13, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Edited Volumes Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![2026 report cover: 'Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders' in large white text on a blue background with a globe illustration on the right.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-Report.jpg) ## REPORT: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026 Report May 6, 2026 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is pleased to announce the release of the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026 Report. Over the past several months, NCAFP convened the third cohort of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders, a diverse group of scholars and policy practitioners. Through one-on-one mentorship, a series of virtual and in-person discussions, training workshops, delegation visits, and high-level meetings in Belfast, Dublin, and the United States, participants examined some of the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. These engagements informed the report, which addresses topics including USA 250, sustainable… - Edited Volumes - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) ![Collage showing global trade and geopolitics: port with containers, torn red panel with arrows, Korea flags, globe, and two statues with a handshake motif.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026_Korean_Peninsula_cov_crop.jpg) ## EDITED VOLUME: 2025-2026 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists The Korean Peninsula at a Strategic Crossroads: Reimagining Security and Statecraft April 2026 The NCAFP organized its fourth cohort of Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists from all over the world to develop and share their analysis on challenges on the Korean Peninsula. These policy professionals and scholars spent the last nine months networking with their peers, meeting with mentors, participating in professional development workshops, and writing policy papers on key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. This new Edited Volume, The Korean Peninsula at a Strategic Crossroads: Reimagining Security… - Edited Volumes [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/edited-volume-2025-2026-next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/KPEL2024EV.png) ## EDITED VOLUME: 2024 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Shaping the Future of Security on the Korean Peninsula: Next-Generation Policy Perspectives February 2025 In 2024, the NCAFP organized its third cohort of next-generation Korean Peninsula specialists from all over the world to share their insights on challenges on the Korean Peninsula. These young policy professionals and scholars spent the last nine months networking with their peers, meeting with mentors, participating in professional development workshops, and writing policy papers on key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. A new Edited Volume, Shaping the Future of Security on the… - Edited Volumes [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/edited-volume-2024-next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/NI-EL-2-1.png) ## REPORT: 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders: Advancing Peace through Policy November 25, 2024 Northern Ireland’s path to prosperity hinges on more than just the absence of open conflict—it requires political stability, economic growth, and a strong commitment to human rights and reconciliation. The restoration of the power-sharing executive in January 2024, along with Sinn Féin's rise and the UK’s new Labour government, presents both challenges and opportunities for Northern Ireland. It also offers a chance to strengthen British-Irish and transatlantic relations, with lasting implications for the region and the world. - Edited Volumes - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2024-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/EL-2022-Report-Cover.jpg) ## EDITED VOLUME: Next-Gen Policy Perspectives: The Korean Peninsula and Beyond December 19, 2022 Throughout the year, the NCAFP held an Emerging Leaders Workshop of 11 next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to discuss issues related to Korean Peninsula security. The Emerging Leaders shared their research and analysis on a variety of topics that deserve reexamination at this critical juncture. These include: Understanding the Republic of Korea's (ROK) policies and priorities–past, present, and future Reengaging the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), from nuclear negotiations to humanitarian assistance Analyzing the ROK's broader role in the Indo-Pacific region and the world To conclude the workshop, the NCAFP is pleased to… - Edited Volumes - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/next-gen-policy-perspectives-the-future-of-the-korean-peninsula-and-beyond/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/unnamed-3-1-e1639500201513.jpg) ## REPORT: Striking the Balance: China’s Response to a DPRK Contingency In his paper, "Striking the Balance: China's Response to a North Korean Contingency," Shaquille James presents multiple scenarios and types of responses China could take in the event of a North Korean contingency that may result from internal instability. To better understand the different responses, he provides a historical overview of Chinese intervention into the Korean War in 1950 and outlines China’s current geopolitical interests and military capabilities. Read his full paper below and learn more about our Emerging Leaders! Shaquille H. James is currently a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and he… - Edited Volumes - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/striking-the-balance-chinas-response-to-a-dprk-contingency/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/unnamed-3-1-e1639500201513.jpg) ## EDITED VOLUME: Next-Gen Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security Policy Recommendations from anEmerging Leaders Workshop December 15, 2021 Throughout the year, the NCAFP held an Emerging Leaders Workshop of ten next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to discuss issues related to Korean Peninsula security. The Emerging Leaders shared their research and analysis on a variety of topics that deserve reexamination at this critical juncture. These include: The North Korean nuclear challenge and prospects for renewed dialogue US alliance management and expanded US-South Korea cooperation - Edited Volumes [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/unnamed-3-1-e1639500201513.jpg) ## WATCH: Next-Gen Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security Next Generation Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security: Policy Recommendations from an Emerging Leaders Workshop Moderated by Susan A. Thornton December 16, 2021 Throughout the year, the NCAFP held an Emerging Leaders Workshop of ten next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to discuss issues related to Korean Peninsula security. The Emerging Leaders shared their research and analysis on a variety of topics that deserve reexamination at this critical juncture. These include: The North Korean nuclear challenge and prospects for renewed dialogue US alliance management and expanded US-South Korea cooperation South Korea's engagement with Southeast Asia Assessing Chinese coercion… - Edited Volumes - Events - Past Webinars & Events - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/read-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Edited-volume-Cover-2.png) ## EDITED VOLUME: New Thinking on Persistent Security Challenges May 3, 2021 While the Trump administration pursued "America First" policies, the rest of the world continued to deepen economic integration and people-to-people communications. However, the process of globalization also gave rise to "weaponized interdependence", a phenomenon where states use economic leverage to achieve political and security objectives. On top of that, a confrontational US approach to China has not resulted in strategic gains for the US or its partners and allies. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the costs of non-traditional security shocks, particularly in the breakdown of global cooperation. International institutions have failed to lead the way out of the pandemic,… - Edited Volumes [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-edited-volume-2021/) ## Posts navigation 1[2](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[Next »](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625) [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [Media](https://ncafp.org/media/) **Published:** August 13, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Media Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-NCAFP-Gala-Materials-1.jpg) ## Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future Tuesday, November 17, 2026Metropolitan Club of New York Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PMAwards Ceremony and Dinner at 7:00PM - Annual Gala - Events - Media - Upcoming Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/PUBLIC-PROGRAM-YOUTUBE-THUMBNAIL-TEMPLATE-psd-21.jpg) ## Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy? September 15, 2026 https://youtu.be/hq0BFaSyXgw?si=Ers9sYcWHMn5A32D About the Program NCAFP's Susan A. Thornton joins Victor Cha and Johnathan Corrado for an NCUSCR-led interview to discuss the U.S. and China's diverging policies toward North Korea and who will manage the next crisis on the Korean Peninsula. From : The strategic landscape of the Korean Peninsula is shifting. President Trump’s recent reduction in military exercises with Seoul and his olive branch to Pyongyang raise new questions regarding the future of the U.S.-South Korea , especially as deepens its military partnership with… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/susan-a-thornton-featured-interview-do-the-u-s-and-china-still-share-a-north-korea-policy/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2025-Next-Gen-KP-Specialists-Banner-1.jpg) ## APPLY: Korean Peninsula Specialist Program 2026-2027 Accepting Applications: Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program Application Submission Period: Monday, June 1, 2026 – Sunday, June 28, 2026The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to join an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on security issues related to the Korean Peninsula. The project will showcase the new ideas and work of selected participants surrounding the following themes: the changing balance of power in the region, the future of multilateral architecture (with special focus… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-korean-peninsula-specialist-program-2026-2027/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RichardHowe.jpg) ## The NCAFP Honors the Life and Friendship of Richard Howe, Esq. Richard Howe, Esq.April 7, 2026 The NCAFP honors the life and friendship of Richard Howe, Esq. Mr. Howe was a long-standing supporter and an integral part of the NCAFP community.  He served on the NCAFP Board of Trustees for many years as the Executive Vice President, Treasurer, and Member of the Executive Committee.  Aside from his generous counsel on the Board, he was an active participant in the NCAFP’s programmatic work and supporter of our annual gala and other fundraising events. Mr. Howe will be remembered for his honesty, accessibility, spirited… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-ncafp-honors-the-life-and-friendship-of-richard-howe-esq/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/carnegie-support-scaled.jpg) ## NCAFP Receives Grant Renewal from Carnegie Corporation of New York NCAFP Receives Grant Renewal from Carnegie Corporation of New York to Support Northeast Asia Security Dialogues Thursday, March 26, 2026New York, NY The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) is pleased to announce the renewal of a $600,000, 36-month grant from Carnegie Corporation of New York in support of the Forum on Asia Pacific Security. This renewed support underscores the continued importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty in the Asia-Pacific region. Through this grant, NCAFP will advance… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/press-release-national-committee-on-american-foreign-policy-receives-grant-renewal-from-carnegie-corporation-of-new-york/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Zagoria-webimage.png) ## The NCAFP Honors and Remembers Dr. Donald Zagoria Donald S. ZagoriaAugust 24, 1928 – September 16, 2025 Dr. Donald Zagoria was a pioneer in his field and the founder of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the NCAFP.  He leaves a legacy of convening U.S.-China and cross-Taiwan Strait dialogues. With his foresight, he recognized that fostering Track II dialogues would yield the most effective policy recommendations for achieving peaceful resolutions. However, what also transpired among the participants was the formation of lasting friendships that endured through the decades. Dr. Zagoria’s expertise in the subject matter was equaled by his kindness, not… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-ncafp-honors-and-remembers-dr-donald-zagoria/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Announcing-NCAFPs-202526-Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-20.jpg) ## Announcing NCAFP’s 2025-26 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders September 2025 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) is proud to launch the third cohort of the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program, a mentorship initiative that empowers community leaders to drive change and strengthen transatlantic ties. Building on the success of the first two years, the program has grown from 10 participants to 13, each addressing some of the most pressing issues facing Northern Ireland and the wider world. Over the next nine months, this cohort will take on challenges ranging from boosting Northern Ireland’s tourism economy and transatlantic trade to advancing climate-smart agriculture, green energy, and climate… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-11.jpg) ## AWARDS: NCAFP’s 2025 Gala Awards Dinner Tuesday, November 18, 2025The Metropolitan Club, New York City On Tuesday, November 18, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted its 2025 Annual Gala Dinner at the Metropolitan Club in New York City. More than 200 distinguished guests from the diplomatic and policy communities, media, academia, and the private sector joined friends and supporters of the organization for an evening focused on advancing informed dialogue and constructive engagement in American foreign policy. The program was led by Ms. Jacqueline Adams, Emmy Award-winning journalist and NCAFP Trustee, who served… - Annual Gala - Events - Media - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafp-2025-gala-awards-dinner/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.png) ## APPLY: 2025 Korean Peninsula Emerging Leaders Applications Open for the 2025 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program Application Submission Period: Monday, June 2, 2025 – Monday, June 23, 2025Notification of Acceptance: End of July 2025Virtual Roundtables: August through December 2025In-person Conference: Early 2026Completion of Program: April 30, 2026 The ’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-now-2025-korean-peninsula-emerging-leaders/) ## Posts navigation 1[2](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[3](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[4](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/4/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[Next »](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625) [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [Past Webinars & Events](https://ncafp.org/past-webinars-events/) **Published:** August 13, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Past Webinars & Events Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC302464-scaled.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Convene Policymakers, Civic Leaders, and Stakeholders at Parliament Buildings June 10, 2026 The Program returned to for a special event bringing together participants from all three cohorts of the program alongside political representatives, civic leaders, academics, business leaders, and community stakeholders. The gathering highlighted the continued impact of the network and provided a platform for intergenerational dialogue on some of the most pressing issues shaping Northern Ireland’s future. Opening remarks were delivered by , who welcomed participants and reflected on the importance of investing in the next generation and collaborative approaches to addressing shared challenges. The event… - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-convene-policymakers-civic-leaders-and-stakeholders-at-parliament-buildings/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Resource-Images_Leaf.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: U.S. Policy in the Middle East U.S. Policy in the Middle East with Ambassador Barbara Leaf June 3, 2026With Barbara LeafModerated by Susan Elliott On Wednesday, June 3, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy welcomed members, Trustees, and colleagues to an invitation-only fireside chat with Ambassador Barbara Leaf at New York City’s Cosmopolitan Club. The conversation, moderated by NCAFP’s President and CEO, Ambassador Susan Elliott, offered an overview of existing diplomatic channels and the possible outlook for short-term and lasting stability in the Middle East.Ambassador Leaf delivered salient remarks… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-u-s-policy-in-the-middle-east/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FAPS-conference.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Forum on Asia Pacific-Security’s Track II Dialogues Forum on Asia Pacific-Security's Track II Dialogues May 10-12, 2026Moderated by Susan A. Thornton The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) convened a series of high-level Track II discussions in early May 2026. The three separate conferences, which included participants from the United States, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, were held under the Chatham House Rule. These participants included prominent former officials, experts, and scholars from the region and across the U.S. During the U.S.-China Bilateral Dialogue, participants from the… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-forum-on-asia-pacific-securitys-track-ii-dialogues/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6765.JPG) ## EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Conference A Week of Engagement Across Washington, DC, and New York City The 2026 Emerging Leaders Conference brought together the third cohort of NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders to Washington, DC, and New York City for a week of high-level dialogue and exchange. The program emphasized sustained transatlantic engagement in addressing shared political, economic, and social challenges. In New York, they presented refined policy ideas, translating months of work into real-world feedback. As they return home, the cohort continues its work in peacebuilding, democratic resilience, and civic leadership, supported by a growing transatlantic network. Below is a summary of their engagements…. - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-final-presentations-2026/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/RECAP.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Geopolitical Risks and the Future of Multilateral Order Geopolitical Risks and the Future of Multilateral Order with Lukas Haynes and Mallory StewartMonday, March 23, 2026Moderated by Susan ElliottWritten by Robert MugnoOn March 23rd, 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), in partnership with the , hosted a panel discussion at the CUNY Graduate Center in New York City on geopolitical risks and the future of the multilateral order. The evening brought together two seasoned practitioners for a conversation that was equal parts historical reckoning and policy analysis.Dr. Lukas… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-geopolitical-risks-and-the-origins-and-future-of-multilateral-order-2/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Title-Kosovo.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Roundtable with the Honorable Kreshnik Ahmeti, Republic of Kosovo Roundtable with the Honorable Kreshnik Ahmeti, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kosovo With Kreshnick AhmetiFebrurary 18, 2026Moderated by Susan Elliott On Wednesday, February 18, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy welcomed the Honorable Kreshnik Ahmeti, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, and this esteemed delegation, for a private roundtable discussion. The conversation provided an informative framework of the domestic and foreign security challenges confronting Pristina.  Topics included navigating its prospective membership in the European Union and the Council of Europe,… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-roundtable-with-the-honorable-kreshnik-ahmeti-republic-of-kosovo/) ![spaceforce_launching_satellite](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Resource-Images-3.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Roundtable with Col. Corey Trusty, U.S. Space Force Roundtable with Col. Corey Trusty, U.S. Space Force With Corey L. TrustyModerated by Susan ElliottMarch 5, 2026Written by Robert Mugno On March 5th, 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) held an in-person roundtable with Space Force Colonel and Council on Foreign Relations Military Fellow, Corey L. Trusty, in New York City. During the conversation, participants engaged in insightful discussions surrounding Space Defense issues, priorities and its intersection with U.S. National Security. In their conversation, they explored how space… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-roundtable-with-col-corey-trusty-u-s-space-force/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dub.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Hold High-Level Meetings in Dublin Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Hold High-Level Meetings in Dublin March 9, 2026  The NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders gathered in Dublin for a series of high-level meetings with government officials, diplomats, academics, and business leaders as they refined and presented their policy proposals. The Emerging Leaders program brings together community leaders from across Northern Ireland who are developing forward-thinking solutions for the region while strengthening transatlantic and trilateral relationships. The Dublin visit marked a key milestone in the program, giving participants the opportunity to test and refine their ideas ahead of their publication and presentations in New York City later… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recapnorthern-ireland-emerging-leaders-hold-high-level-meetings-in-dublin/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/j.png) ## EVENT POSTPONED: The U.S.-Japan Alliance in A Changing World Order Public Event: The U.S.-Japan Alliance in a Changing World Order February 23 \| 6:30 PM ET \*This event was postponed due to hazardous weather conditions. Please check our website for any updates. As strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific intensifies, the U.S.-Japan alliance stands at a pivotal juncture. It serves as an anchor not only for bilateral cooperation but also for broader regional peace, stability, and economic security. While the Indo-Pacific remains strategically vital, the recent 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy framing suggests a more transactional alliance footing,… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-the-u-s-japan-alliance-in-a-changing-world-order/) ## Posts navigation 1[2](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[3](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)…[12](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/12/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[Next »](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625) [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [Reports](https://ncafp.org/reports/) **Published:** August 13, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Reports Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/pic2.jpg) ## REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanAugust 2026 Although policy uncertainty has increased and communication channels are woefully inadequate, cross-Taiwan Strait tensions appear to have eased in recent months.  At the NCAFP’s most recent session of its longstanding cross-Taiwan Strait Track II senior dialogue with experts from the United States, Mainland China, and Taiwan, there was a broad consensus that domestic politics are increasingly driving cross-Strait dynamics.  This has led to a fragile tempering of rhetoric and near-term assessments, although the gravity and intractability of the issue remain, and domestic drivers could quickly… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-fragile-stability-of-cross-taiwan-strait-relations/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4PR-Graphic-scaled-e1781620811995.jpg) ## Beyond Great Power Competition: Middle Power Responses to Strategic Uncertainty in Northeast Asia By Susan Thornton, Emily Sparkman, and Ashley QuinonezJune 2026 In May 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security convened scholars and practitioners from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and the United States for a closed-door Track II dialogue. Participants examined how to navigate an intensifying U.S.-China competition and its effects on regional allies and partners; how to manage growing economic vulnerabilities amid the politicization of trade and supply chains; and how to preserve dialogue amid deepening mistrust. In… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/beyond-great-power-competition-middle-power-responses-to-strategic-uncertainty-in-northeast-asia/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot-2026-06-18-at-22823-PM.png) ## REPORT: The U.S.-China Relationship Heads Toward Stabilization By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanJune 2026 In May 2026, NCAFP convened American and Chinese experts for its annual U.S.-China Track II to assess the state of bilateral relations just ahead of the delayed Trump-Xi summit in Beijing and to identify opportunities to reduce the risks of long-term strategic competition. Although participants differed on the causes of current tensions and the appropriate path forward, stabilization emerged as the most realistic and achievable near-term objective for the relationship. Both sides recognized that competition would persist and agreed that an unmanaged rivalry carries far too… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-u-s-china-relationship-heads-toward-stabilization/) ![Two male world leaders in suits facing each other against a red wireframe globe background.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Picture1.jpg) ## REPORT: U.S.-China Next Generation Working Group: Reflections Ahead of the Upcoming 2026 Leader Summit Multiple Authors May 2026 The NCAFP, in collaboration with Tsinghua University’s Center for International Security and Strategy’s U.S.-China Young Leaders Working Group, brings together scholars from the United States and China to support ongoing dialogue at a time of heightened tension and limited exchange between both sides. Building on NCAFP’s long-standing Track II engagement, the program creates space for sustained exchange and relationship-building among the next generation of experts shaping the future of U.S.-China ties. The paired essays featured here reflect these exchanges, presenting U.S. and Chinese perspectives on the… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-u-s-china-next-generation-working-group-reflections-ahead-of-the-upcoming-2026-leader-summit/) ![2026 report cover: 'Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders' in large white text on a blue background with a globe illustration on the right.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-Report.jpg) ## REPORT: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026 Report May 6, 2026 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is pleased to announce the release of the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026 Report. Over the past several months, NCAFP convened the third cohort of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders, a diverse group of scholars and policy practitioners. Through one-on-one mentorship, a series of virtual and in-person discussions, training workshops, delegation visits, and high-level meetings in Belfast, Dublin, and the United States, participants examined some of the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. These engagements informed the report, which addresses topics including USA 250, sustainable… - Edited Volumes - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/j-1.jpg) ## REPORT: Anchoring the Asia-Pacific: The U.S.-Japan Alliance in an Era of Strategic Uncertainty By Emily Sparkman April 2026 In February 2026, the NCAFP convened experts for a closed-door hybrid discussion to discuss the future of the U.S.-Japan bilateral relations, the growing importance of economic security within the alliance, the role of domestic politics, Japan’s evolving defense posture and strategic autonomy, and the resilience of international institutions during a period of global uncertainty. Participants emphasized the alliance's operational strength, particularly in the military domain, and identified opportunities for the U.S. and Japan to strengthen their partnership and adapt to emerging challenges. Yet, political uncertainty surrounding the direction… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-anchoring-the-asia-pacific-the-u-s-japan-alliance-in-an-era-of-strategic-uncertainty/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Image-1-27-26-at-255-PM.jpeg) ## REPORT: Stability at an Inflection Point: U.S. Strategy in a Changing Northeast Asia By Susan A. Thornton, Emily Sparkman, and Nia Williams January 2026 A delegation from the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) visited Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo in December 2025 to discuss regional security issues and U.S. foreign policy in Northeast Asia. Last year proved impactful for U.S. relations with East Asia, as shifting regional dynamics heightened strategic competition with China, and renewed diplomatic engagement amid leadership transitions in Japan and the Republic of Korea took shape. Interlocutors in Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo understand that major changes in U.S…. - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-stability-at-an-inflection-point-u-s-strategy-in-a-changing-northeast-asia/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/July-2025-CST-Report.png) ## REPORT: Conflict Prevention in the Taiwan Strait: Restraint, Discipline and Dialogue By Susan A. Thornton and Emily SparkmanJuly 2025 In June 2025, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) convened its annual Cross-Taiwan Strait Track II Dialogue in New York City, bringing together a select group of authoritative participants from all sides. This closed-door discussion focused on the increasingly tense dynamics shaping cross-Strait relations, with particular attention to the growing drivers of the security dilemma, diverging threat perceptions, and the erosion of mutual trust. Participants explored both short- and medium-term outlooks for peace and stability, assessed the effectiveness of deterrence strategies, and offered… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-conflict-prevention-in-the-taiwan-strait/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Image-1-27-26-at-255-PM.jpeg) ## REPORT: Unlocking Cooperation: A Path to Regional Stability in Asia By Susan A. Thornton and Emily SparkmanJuly 2025 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s Forum on Asia Pacific Security recently convened experts from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and the U.S. against a complex geopolitical backdrop for a closed-door trilateral (U.S., Japan, ROK) and four-party Track II conference. In keeping with our focus on conflict prevention, discussions focused on fostering regional security cooperation and negotiations to defuse tensions and build confidence among regional players. Despite substantial challenges to regional stability and cooperation, participants recognized the… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-unlocking-cooperation-a-path-to-regional-stability-in-asia/) ## Posts navigation 1[2](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[3](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)…[7](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/7/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[Next »](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625) [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [Stay Connected](https://ncafp.org/stay-connected/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ## Stay updated with the NCAFP’s upcoming events, podcasts, and reports. Subscribe below! The NCAFP respects the privacy of its members, and your email address will never be shared or given out to any third party without your expressed consent. If you have questions for our staff, please email us directly at <contact@ncafp.org>. The National Committee on American Foreign Policy 400 Madison Avenue, Suite 16B New York, NY 10017″ ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/StayConnected-400Madison_1080x1080-1.jpg) ## Newsletter Sign-Up Form Δ Name(Required) First Name Last Name Email Address(Required) Title(Required) Organization or Affiliation:(Required) Interested in: Membership Events Reports Annual Gala Message(Required) Submit --- ### [04 - Directory](https://ncafp.org/04-directory/) **Published:** July 22, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Media & Reports Directory For many years, the NCAFP has convened thought leaders from government, academia,  and civil society. The NCAFP’s discussions and reports have contributed to the enhancement of American foreign policy interests. Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-NCAFP-Gala-Materials-1.jpg) ## Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future Tuesday, November 17, 2026Metropolitan Club of New York Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PMAwards Ceremony and Dinner at 7:00PM - Annual Gala - Events - Media - Upcoming Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/PUBLIC-PROGRAM-YOUTUBE-THUMBNAIL-TEMPLATE-psd-21.jpg) ## Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy? September 15, 2026 https://youtu.be/hq0BFaSyXgw?si=Ers9sYcWHMn5A32D About the Program NCAFP's Susan A. Thornton joins Victor Cha and Johnathan Corrado for an NCUSCR-led interview to discuss the U.S. and China's diverging policies toward North Korea and who will manage the next crisis on the Korean Peninsula. From : The strategic landscape of the Korean Peninsula is shifting. President Trump’s recent reduction in military exercises with Seoul and his olive branch to Pyongyang raise new questions regarding the future of the U.S.-South Korea , especially as deepens its military partnership with… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/susan-a-thornton-featured-interview-do-the-u-s-and-china-still-share-a-north-korea-policy/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/pic2.jpg) ## REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanAugust 2026 Although policy uncertainty has increased and communication channels are woefully inadequate, cross-Taiwan Strait tensions appear to have eased in recent months.  At the NCAFP’s most recent session of its longstanding cross-Taiwan Strait Track II senior dialogue with experts from the United States, Mainland China, and Taiwan, there was a broad consensus that domestic politics are increasingly driving cross-Strait dynamics.  This has led to a fragile tempering of rhetoric and near-term assessments, although the gravity and intractability of the issue remain, and domestic drivers could quickly… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-fragile-stability-of-cross-taiwan-strait-relations/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-5.jpg) ## LISTEN: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Summer Podcast Series Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Podcast: A Two-Part Summer Series June 2026 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program Director Emma DeSouza brings together alumni from across three cohorts to interrogate the defining challenges of post-conflict Northern Ireland — from institutional reform to rights, health, and the next generation of leadership. Episode 1: Building Capacity for the Future: Health, Talent and Smarter Government Emma DeSouza speaks with Austin Orr and Caolan Rooney about the structural pressures now bearing down on post-conflict institutions: an ageing population, an overstretched health and social care system, and the near-impossible task of long-term policymaking inside short-term political cycles…. - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-summer-podcast-series/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC302464-scaled.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Convene Policymakers, Civic Leaders, and Stakeholders at Parliament Buildings June 10, 2026 The Program returned to for a special event bringing together participants from all three cohorts of the program alongside political representatives, civic leaders, academics, business leaders, and community stakeholders. The gathering highlighted the continued impact of the network and provided a platform for intergenerational dialogue on some of the most pressing issues shaping Northern Ireland’s future. Opening remarks were delivered by , who welcomed participants and reflected on the importance of investing in the next generation and collaborative approaches to addressing shared challenges. The event… - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-convene-policymakers-civic-leaders-and-stakeholders-at-parliament-buildings/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4PR-Graphic-scaled-e1781620811995.jpg) ## Beyond Great Power Competition: Middle Power Responses to Strategic Uncertainty in Northeast Asia By Susan Thornton, Emily Sparkman, and Ashley QuinonezJune 2026 In May 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security convened scholars and practitioners from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and the United States for a closed-door Track II dialogue. Participants examined how to navigate an intensifying U.S.-China competition and its effects on regional allies and partners; how to manage growing economic vulnerabilities amid the politicization of trade and supply chains; and how to preserve dialogue amid deepening mistrust. In… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/beyond-great-power-competition-middle-power-responses-to-strategic-uncertainty-in-northeast-asia/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Resource-Images_Leaf.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: U.S. Policy in the Middle East U.S. Policy in the Middle East with Ambassador Barbara Leaf June 3, 2026With Barbara LeafModerated by Susan Elliott On Wednesday, June 3, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy welcomed members, Trustees, and colleagues to an invitation-only fireside chat with Ambassador Barbara Leaf at New York City’s Cosmopolitan Club. The conversation, moderated by NCAFP’s President and CEO, Ambassador Susan Elliott, offered an overview of existing diplomatic channels and the possible outlook for short-term and lasting stability in the Middle East.Ambassador Leaf delivered salient remarks… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-u-s-policy-in-the-middle-east/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot-2026-06-18-at-22823-PM.png) ## REPORT: The U.S.-China Relationship Heads Toward Stabilization By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanJune 2026 In May 2026, NCAFP convened American and Chinese experts for its annual U.S.-China Track II to assess the state of bilateral relations just ahead of the delayed Trump-Xi summit in Beijing and to identify opportunities to reduce the risks of long-term strategic competition. Although participants differed on the causes of current tensions and the appropriate path forward, stabilization emerged as the most realistic and achievable near-term objective for the relationship. Both sides recognized that competition would persist and agreed that an unmanaged rivalry carries far too… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-u-s-china-relationship-heads-toward-stabilization/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FAPS-conference.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Forum on Asia Pacific-Security’s Track II Dialogues Forum on Asia Pacific-Security's Track II Dialogues May 10-12, 2026Moderated by Susan A. Thornton The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) convened a series of high-level Track II discussions in early May 2026. The three separate conferences, which included participants from the United States, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, were held under the Chatham House Rule. These participants included prominent former officials, experts, and scholars from the region and across the U.S. During the U.S.-China Bilateral Dialogue, participants from the… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-forum-on-asia-pacific-securitys-track-ii-dialogues/) ## Posts navigation 1[2](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[3](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)…[27](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/27/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[Next »](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625) [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [03 - Homepage](https://ncafp.org/03-homepage-2/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Banner-image-desktop-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Banner-image-tablet-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Banner-image-mobile-_1_.webp) # Diplomacy in Action The NCAFP is a nonpartisan policy organization dedicated to advancing American foreign policy interests through dialogue and engagement. Our Mission & History What’s New ## Updates & Activities The NCAFP’s public programs, activities and reports enhance our understanding of world affairs and how they affect American foreign policy. Explore Our Directory [Read Post Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-NCAFP-Gala-Materials-1.jpg) [Read Post Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) 10 – 21 Annual Gala ### Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future Tuesday, November 17, 2026Metropolitan Club of New York Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PMAwards Ceremony and Dinner at 7:00PM [Read Post Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy?](https://ncafp.org/resources/susan-a-thornton-featured-interview-do-the-u-s-and-china-still-share-a-north-korea-policy/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/PUBLIC-PROGRAM-YOUTUBE-THUMBNAIL-TEMPLATE-psd-21.jpg) 09 – 15 Media ### Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy? September 15, 2026 About the Program NCAFP’s Susan A. Thornton joins Victor Cha and Johnathan Corrado for an NCUSCR-led interview to discuss the U.S. and China’s diverging policies toward North Korea and who will manage the next crisis on the Korean Peninsula. From NCUSCR: The strategic landscape of the Korean Peninsula is shifting. President Trump’s recent reduction in military exercises with Seoul and his olive branch to \[…\] [Read Post REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-fragile-stability-of-cross-taiwan-strait-relations/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/pic2.jpg) 08 – 03 Reports ### REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanAugust 2026 Although policy uncertainty has increased and communication channels are woefully inadequate, cross-Taiwan Strait tensions appear to have eased in recent months.  At the NCAFP’s most recent session of its longstanding cross-Taiwan Strait Track II senior dialogue with experts from the United States, Mainland China, and Taiwan, there was \[…\] What We Do ![This is the default image](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/themes/elevation-framework/src/assets/images/default.svg) ### Past Projects 20 words max. 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[ Read more ](#) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/background-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/background-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/background-_1_.webp) NCAFP in numbers ## Our Impact For thirty years, the NCAFP has been conducting informal  (Track II and 1.5) diplomatic dialogues focused on building peace in Northern Ireland, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and promoting regional security in Northeast Asia. Our Impact Convened Over 500 Track II Dialogues Spanning Over Thirty Years ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/impact-icon-1.svg) Hosted Hundreds of Public Education Programs on a Wide Variety of Topics ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/impact-icon-2.svg) Amplified the Voices of 50 Emerging Leaders From Round the World ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/impact-icon-3.svg) resources ## Explore the NCAFP Our written reports, recorded programs, podcasts, past edited volumes and projects exemplify the work of the NCAFP. These are the deliverables from Track II discussions, public education programs, and international delegation trips. Media & Reports Read Our Reports Here Read More ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-1.svg) NCAFP in the News Read More ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-2.svg) View Previously Recorded Events Read More ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-3.svg) See a Complete List of Our Edited Volumes Read More ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-4.svg) Access Our Podcast Episodes and Subscribe for Updates Read More ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/resources-icon-5.svg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/join-desktop-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/join-tablet-_1_.webp) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/join-mobile-_1_.webp) ### Join the NCAFP Community Through its membership program, the NCAFP keeps members up to date on critical foreign policy issues, and connects them with architects of public policy through an array of events. Become a MemberDonate --- ### [Media & Reports Directory](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** # Media & Reports Directory For many years, the NCAFP has convened thought leaders from government, academia,  and civil society. The NCAFP’s discussions and reports have contributed to the enhancement of American foreign policy interests. Select Filters: Select Filters: Apply Filters Clear filters Filter by: Content Type Annual Gala Edited Volumes Events Past Webinars & Events Upcoming Events Media Podcasts Reports Topic Annual Gala Awards Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Global Governance Regional Security Region Africa Asia-Pacific China Japan Korean Peninsula Taiwan-Strait Central Asia Europe Middle East Year 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Apply Filters Explore: Search Search Displaying Results For: Clear filters Select Filters: ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-NCAFP-Gala-Materials-1.jpg) ## Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future Tuesday, November 17, 2026Metropolitan Club of New York Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PMAwards Ceremony and Dinner at 7:00PM - Annual Gala - Events - Media - Upcoming Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/PUBLIC-PROGRAM-YOUTUBE-THUMBNAIL-TEMPLATE-psd-21.jpg) ## Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy? September 15, 2026 https://youtu.be/hq0BFaSyXgw?si=Ers9sYcWHMn5A32D About the Program NCAFP's Susan A. Thornton joins Victor Cha and Johnathan Corrado for an NCUSCR-led interview to discuss the U.S. and China's diverging policies toward North Korea and who will manage the next crisis on the Korean Peninsula. From : The strategic landscape of the Korean Peninsula is shifting. President Trump’s recent reduction in military exercises with Seoul and his olive branch to Pyongyang raise new questions regarding the future of the U.S.-South Korea , especially as deepens its military partnership with… - Media [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/susan-a-thornton-featured-interview-do-the-u-s-and-china-still-share-a-north-korea-policy/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/pic2.jpg) ## REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanAugust 2026 Although policy uncertainty has increased and communication channels are woefully inadequate, cross-Taiwan Strait tensions appear to have eased in recent months.  At the NCAFP’s most recent session of its longstanding cross-Taiwan Strait Track II senior dialogue with experts from the United States, Mainland China, and Taiwan, there was a broad consensus that domestic politics are increasingly driving cross-Strait dynamics.  This has led to a fragile tempering of rhetoric and near-term assessments, although the gravity and intractability of the issue remain, and domestic drivers could quickly… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-fragile-stability-of-cross-taiwan-strait-relations/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-5.jpg) ## LISTEN: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Summer Podcast Series Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Podcast: A Two-Part Summer Series June 2026 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program Director Emma DeSouza brings together alumni from across three cohorts to interrogate the defining challenges of post-conflict Northern Ireland — from institutional reform to rights, health, and the next generation of leadership. Episode 1: Building Capacity for the Future: Health, Talent and Smarter Government Emma DeSouza speaks with Austin Orr and Caolan Rooney about the structural pressures now bearing down on post-conflict institutions: an ageing population, an overstretched health and social care system, and the near-impossible task of long-term policymaking inside short-term political cycles…. - Podcasts [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-summer-podcast-series/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC302464-scaled.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Convene Policymakers, Civic Leaders, and Stakeholders at Parliament Buildings June 10, 2026 The Program returned to for a special event bringing together participants from all three cohorts of the program alongside political representatives, civic leaders, academics, business leaders, and community stakeholders. The gathering highlighted the continued impact of the network and provided a platform for intergenerational dialogue on some of the most pressing issues shaping Northern Ireland’s future. Opening remarks were delivered by , who welcomed participants and reflected on the importance of investing in the next generation and collaborative approaches to addressing shared challenges. The event… - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-convene-policymakers-civic-leaders-and-stakeholders-at-parliament-buildings/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4PR-Graphic-scaled-e1781620811995.jpg) ## Beyond Great Power Competition: Middle Power Responses to Strategic Uncertainty in Northeast Asia By Susan Thornton, Emily Sparkman, and Ashley QuinonezJune 2026 In May 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security convened scholars and practitioners from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and the United States for a closed-door Track II dialogue. Participants examined how to navigate an intensifying U.S.-China competition and its effects on regional allies and partners; how to manage growing economic vulnerabilities amid the politicization of trade and supply chains; and how to preserve dialogue amid deepening mistrust. In… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/beyond-great-power-competition-middle-power-responses-to-strategic-uncertainty-in-northeast-asia/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Resource-Images_Leaf.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: U.S. Policy in the Middle East U.S. Policy in the Middle East with Ambassador Barbara Leaf June 3, 2026With Barbara LeafModerated by Susan Elliott On Wednesday, June 3, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy welcomed members, Trustees, and colleagues to an invitation-only fireside chat with Ambassador Barbara Leaf at New York City’s Cosmopolitan Club. The conversation, moderated by NCAFP’s President and CEO, Ambassador Susan Elliott, offered an overview of existing diplomatic channels and the possible outlook for short-term and lasting stability in the Middle East.Ambassador Leaf delivered salient remarks… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-u-s-policy-in-the-middle-east/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot-2026-06-18-at-22823-PM.png) ## REPORT: The U.S.-China Relationship Heads Toward Stabilization By Susan Thornton and Emily SparkmanJune 2026 In May 2026, NCAFP convened American and Chinese experts for its annual U.S.-China Track II to assess the state of bilateral relations just ahead of the delayed Trump-Xi summit in Beijing and to identify opportunities to reduce the risks of long-term strategic competition. Although participants differed on the causes of current tensions and the appropriate path forward, stabilization emerged as the most realistic and achievable near-term objective for the relationship. Both sides recognized that competition would persist and agreed that an unmanaged rivalry carries far too… - Reports [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-u-s-china-relationship-heads-toward-stabilization/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FAPS-conference.jpg) ## EVENT RECAP: Forum on Asia Pacific-Security’s Track II Dialogues Forum on Asia Pacific-Security's Track II Dialogues May 10-12, 2026Moderated by Susan A. Thornton The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) convened a series of high-level Track II discussions in early May 2026. The three separate conferences, which included participants from the United States, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, were held under the Chatham House Rule. These participants included prominent former officials, experts, and scholars from the region and across the U.S. During the U.S.-China Bilateral Dialogue, participants from the… - Events - Past Webinars & Events [Read Post](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-forum-on-asia-pacific-securitys-track-ii-dialogues/) ## Posts navigation 1[2](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[3](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)…[27](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/27/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625)[Next »](https://ncafp.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792955521.7770369052886962890625) [Go to Top](#top) --- ### [Terms of Use](https://ncafp.org/terms-of-use/) **Published:** July 12, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** Copyright © 2024 National Committee on American Foreign Policy. All rights reserved. ## GENERAL CONDITIONS AND LEGAL INFORMATION ### 1. PREAMBLE AND LEGAL INFORMATION The present site https://ncafp.org/resources/ is operated by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), having its registered office at 400 Madison Ave, Suite 16B, New York, NY 10017 as a 501(c)(3) public charity with EIN XX-XXX-XXXX, represented herein by CEO (Susan Elliott) in her capacity of President and CEO. NCAFP is a U.S.-based  charitable organization for foreign policy. By accessing the website of the NCAFP you declare that you have understood the following terms and conditions and that you agree with them. If you do not agree with them, please do not access our website. NCAFP reserves the right to modify the present terms and conditions at any time. The “NCAFP” is the National Committee on American Foreign Policy that pertains to this document. ### 2. COPYRIGHT AND OTHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS The whole content of the website of NCAFP is subject to copyrights. All copyrights on the content of the website of NCAFP and all its figurative or non-figurative trademarks and, more generally, all other trademarks, illustrations, images, photographs and logos, whether registered or not, are and remain the exclusive property of the Company. Any total or partial reproduction, transfer, alteration or utilization of the website or its databases and of the logo of NCAFP, by any means whatsoever, is prohibited. The NCAFP name, as well as the NCAFP logo, are registered trademarks and/or service marks of NCAFP. Reproduction in whole or in part, downloading, modification, or use of these trademarks, illustrations, images, photographs, and logos for any reason and by any medium whatsoever, without the express prior written consent of NCAFP, is strictly prohibited. The same prohibition applies to any distinctive sign intended to form a composite logo. Any act of counterfeiting and any complicity will be prosecuted in court. Without an express prior written consent of NCAFP, are also strictly prohibited: the creation of hypertext links to any pages or any components of the website and the use of any of its components (presented contents, descriptions, prices, data, software, graphics, pictures, photographs) for the sale or any other use directly or indirectly commercial. ### 3. DISCLAIMER All information, representations, links, or other messages may be subject to change by NCAFP at any time without prior notice or explanation to the user. The Company is as diligent as possible in compiling and updating the information on its website; however, NCAFP does not guarantee the correctness and completeness of the information provided on its website and that this information is up to date. NCAFP is not obliged to remove any outdated information from its website or to expressly mark it as being outdated. No information published on the website of NCAFP constitutes a solicitation or offer, or invitation to conclude any legal act of any kind whatsoever; it solely serves informational and descriptive purposes. The information on this website is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or non-infringement of intellectual property rights. NCAFP excludes any and all liability for direct or indirect damages of any kind in connection with the access or the utilization of its website or single elements of it and the information provided by its website insofar as and to the extent that such exclusion is not prohibited by law. Liability claims regarding damage caused by an interruption of a part of or all functionalities of the website of NCAFP  are excluded as well and to the same extent. Equally, NCAFP does not assume any liability and does not guarantee that the functions on its website are free of errors, that errors are corrected or that the site or the respective server is free of viruses or any other detrimental elements. By using a link to a third party’s website you leave the website of NCAFP. NCAFP has not verified the websites of third parties linked to the website of NCAFP and does not assume any responsibility for their content, particularly not for any offers, information and opinions contained therein. ### 4. NULLITY, APPLICABLE LAW AND COMPETENT COURTS The nullity of one or more clauses in these general terms and conditions does not affect the validity of all the other clauses. The contracts to which these general terms and conditions apply are exclusively governed by United States law. In case of dispute, the courts of NEW YORK have exclusive jurisdiction. ### 5.PRIVACY NCAFP commits to respecting the privacy of our contacts, in compliance with the applicable law and regulations. Please refer to our data privacy policy for all information about our practices related to your personal and system data. ### 6. MISCELLANEOUS These general terms and conditions are available in English. --- ### [Accessibility Policy](https://ncafp.org/accessibility-policy/) **Published:** July 12, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) is committed to providing the most accessible reading, listening, and visually inclusive experience regardless of disability, network speed, or device. We will continue to strive and improve our services and website features. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) define requirements for designers and developers to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. There are three levels of conformance: Level A (basic), Level AA (intermediate), and Level AAA (advanced). [Elevation](https://www.elevationweb.org/) seeks to conform with WCAG 2.0 at conformance level AA as this is the most frequently adopted standard by governments around the world (read more) and is also the conformance level recommended by many accessibility auditing agencies (such as the Bureau of Internet Accessibility). We are committed to continuous improvement so that we may increase our compliance level over time as we learn and grow, aiming to eventually conform with the most current WCAG standard (version 2.2, released in September 2022). We additionally will preferentially purchase apps and third party tools that meet or exceed our web accessibility policy. Policy Scope This policy applies to all new, updated, and existing web content on <https://www.elevationweb.org/> as well as all websites prepared for Elevation clients. It also applies to all internally developed and third party technologies used in the creation of said websites. This policy does not yet include content provided internally on the Elevation Intranet. It also does not cover client-generated content. The NCAFP welcomes your feedback on the accessibility of this website. Please let us know if you encounter difficulties. Please call [(516) 403-4512](tel:5164034512) or email, <contact@ncafp.org> --- ## Resources ### [Gala Awards Dinner: Bridging Past, Present, and Future](https://ncafp.org/resources/gala-awards-dinner-bridging-past-present-and-future/) **Published:** October 21, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** *Tuesday, November 17, 2026* *Metropolitan Club of New York* *Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PM Awards Ceremony and Dinner at 7:00PM* As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy invites you to an evening that honors our nation’s legacy and looks toward the future. This year’s Gala will celebrate the leaders, partnerships, and ideas shaping America’s role in an increasingly complex world. For more than five decades, NCAFP has brought together policymakers, diplomats, business leaders, and scholars to advance diplomacy, dialogue, and international engagement. As we look ahead, these principles remain as important as ever. The evening will recognize visionary leaders whose service, leadership, and commitment to international cooperation are helping build a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure future. This year’s Gala honors leaders whose work reflects that continuity across time and fields of service. **Stephen E. Biegun,** former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, will receive *The George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service* in recognition of his principled diplomacy and leadership on critical international issues. **Michael J. Dowling,** Chief Executive Officer Emeritus of Northwell Health, will be honored with *The William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award* for his lifelong commitment to strengthening institutions and communities in service of the public good. **Denise Murrell**, PhD, Merryl H. and James S. Tisch Curator at Large, Office of the Director, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, will receive the *Award for Excellence in Cultural Diplomacy and International Engagement* for expanding cultural understanding through her scholarship and curatorial vision. [VISIT THE GALA PAGE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HONOREES](https://ncafp.org/annual-gala-awards-dinner/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Gala-2026-Flyer.jpg) ## **Tickets & Sponsorship Individual tickets and table/sponsorship packages are now available. For questions or inquiries, including sponsorship and journal ads, please contact galatickets@ncafp.org.** [DOWNLOAD A TICKET PACKET TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORSHIP LEVELS](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NCAFP-Invite-PDF.pdf)   **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Events, Media, Upcoming Events **Year:** 2026 --- ### [Susan A. Thornton, Featured Interview: Do the U.S. and China Still Share a North Korea Policy?](https://ncafp.org/resources/susan-a-thornton-featured-interview-do-the-u-s-and-china-still-share-a-north-korea-policy/) **Published:** September 15, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** *September 15, 2026* ### About the Program NCAFP’s Susan A. Thornton joins Victor Cha and Johnathan Corrado for an NCUSCR-led interview to discuss the U.S. and China’s diverging policies toward North Korea and who will manage the next crisis on the Korean Peninsula. From [NCUSCR](https://www.ncuscr.org/event/do-the-us-and-china-still-share-a-north-korea-policy/): The strategic landscape of the Korean Peninsula is shifting. President Trump’s recent reduction in military exercises with Seoul and his olive branch to Pyongyang raise new questions regarding the future of the U.S.-South Korea [alliance](https://www.ncuscr.org/event/security-without-exclusivity/), especially as [North Korea ](https://www.ncuscr.org/event/north-koreas-missile-tests/)deepens its military partnership with Russia**.** Meanwhile, denuclearization, previously a common goal of Washington and Beijing, grows increasingly uncertain as the [two countries’ priorities diverge](https://www.ncuscr.org/event/what-does-americas-new-national-security-strategy-mean-for-china/). This conversation examines whether the United States and China still share a policy toward North Korea, how changes in Pyongyang’s foreign policy are reshaping the region, and what a transforming U.S.-South Korea alliance means for Seoul. ### Speakers [**Susan A. Thornton** ](https://law.yale.edu/susan-thornton)is the Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at NCAFP. She is a retired senior U.S. diplomat with extensive experience in Eurasia and East Asia. She is a senior fellow at the Yale Paul Tsai China Center and a non-resident fellow at the Brookings Institution. Until July 2018, Ms. Thornton was acting assistant secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the Department of State, leading regional policymaking amid crises with North Korea, escalating trade tensions with China, and a fast-changing international environment. In previous State Department roles, she worked on China and Korea policy, including stabilizing Taiwan relations, the U.S.-China Cyber Agreement, the Paris Climate Accord, and the Agreed Framework on North Korean denuclearization. She served in leadership positions in overseas postings in Central Asia, Russia, the Caucasus, and China. Ms. Thornton received her M.A. from Johns Hopkins SAIS and her B.A. from Bowdoin College. Ms. Thorton serves on the board of the NCUSCR. [**Victor Cha**](https://victordcha.com/) is president of the Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department and Korea chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He is a distinguished professor of government at Georgetown University. He served on the Defense Policy Board advising the secretary of defense during the Biden administration (2021-2025), and on the National Security Council (NSC) (2004-2007), where he was responsible for Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations. Dr. Cha was deputy head of the U.S. delegation at the Six Party Talks and received two outstanding service commendations while at the NSC. He is the author of nine books, including[ *Alignment Despite Antagonism: The United States–Korea–Japan Security Triangle* (1999)](https://www.sup.org/books/politics/alignment-despite-antagonism), which won the 2000 Ohira Book Prize, and [*The Impossible State: North Korea, Past and Future* (2012)](https://asianstudies.georgetown.edu/news/publication/the-impossible-state-north-korea-past-and-future/). Dr. Cha received his Ph.D., MIA, and BA from Columbia University and a BA with honors from Oxford University. ### Moderator [**Jonathan Corrado** ](https://www.koreasociety.org/about-us/staff-bios/)is director of policy for The Korea Society, where he produces programming and conducts research on security, diplomacy, and socioeconomic issues impacting the U.S.-Korea alliance, the Korean peninsula, and Northeast Asia. Mr. Corrado is also a nonresident senior fellow in the Indo-Pacific Security Initiative at the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security. Mr. Corrado teaches a course entitled, “North Korea: State, Society, Diplomacy, and Security” at Columbia University and previously instructed at SUNY Stony Brook. He was formerly a non-resident James A. Kelly Fellow at Pacific Forum, an emerging leader at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, and a contributor to NK Pro. He has published articles in the *International Journal of Intelligence and CounterIntelligence*, *Foreign Affairs*, *Foreign Policy*, *The Diplomat*, and *The National Interest*, among others. Mr. Corrado received his MA from Georgetown University and BA from the University of Maryland College Park. [Watch the Full Interview Here](https://youtu.be/hq0BFaSyXgw?si=Ers9sYcWHMn5A32D) **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2026 --- ### [REPORT: The Fragile Stability of Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-fragile-stability-of-cross-taiwan-strait-relations/) **Published:** August 3, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** By Susan Thornton and Emily Sparkman *August 2026* Although policy uncertainty has increased and communication channels are woefully inadequate, cross-Taiwan Strait tensions appear to have eased in recent months.  At the NCAFP’s most recent session of its longstanding cross-Taiwan Strait Track II senior dialogue with experts from the United States, Mainland China, and Taiwan, there was a broad consensus that domestic politics are increasingly driving cross-Strait dynamics.  This has led to a fragile tempering of rhetoric and near-term assessments, although the gravity and intractability of the issue remain, and domestic drivers could quickly shift the trajectory. **Key Takeaways and Recommendations** - The current cross-Taiwan Strait environment is one of heightened ambiguity, uncertainty, and diminishing trust rather than imminent military conflict. - The situation is stable in the sense that no side seeks imminent conflict, yet stability in the Taiwan Strait remains fragile; - U.S. policy toward China and Taiwan is unclear and changeable: - The U.S. intelligence community revised its assessment of the urgency of Beijing’s war preparations; - Beijing is cautiously optimistic regarding stability on the Taiwan issue after the Trump-Xi summit but remains uncertain about U.S. intentions; - Taiwan faces growing uncertainty regarding U.S. commitments while continuing to invest in deterrence. - Communication is an urgent priority. Official cross-Strait dialogue is absent and even unofficial exchanges on issues in cross-Strait relations are rare. - Political weaponization of cross-Strait exchanges predominates amid lack of trust.  Both Taipei and Beijing demonstrate intolerance for exchanges with the other side. - Maintaining open communication channels through Track II and Track 1.5 dialogues is essential to avoiding conflict and reducing misperceptions.  These should be expanded. - Parties are over-reliant on military signaling, leading to media and public overreaction. - Parties should pursue opportunities for increased practical law enforcement cooperation; - They should work to establish confidence-building measures, maritime incident protocols, and military crisis management mechanisms that reduce escalation risks. - Domestic politics are shaping regional security. U.S. domestic politics, Taiwan’s elections and identity politics, and Beijing’s political calculations are making compromise increasingly difficult. - Policymakers should prioritize institutional mechanisms that can be resilient across leadership transitions and electoral cycles. - “Securitization” has drastically altered perceptions of economic interdependence across the Taiwan Strait, leading to increased costs and tensions. - Sides should continue implementation of past cross-Strait agreements and acknowledge practical efforts; - Cross-Strait confidence-building measures were deemed “difficult,” but participants mooted several specific proposals: - Joint or parallel efforts to highlight the 160th birth anniversary of Sun Yat-sen, the “Father of the Republic of China” - Parallel Mainland-Taiwan statements to defend maritime boundary interests in the face of recent Japan-Philippine maritime boundary delimitation talks. - Increase student exchanges across the Strait and undertake official actions to make such exchanges more attractive to students. - Leaders should remain consistent in their formulations and should not advance new formulations to describe the other side or make sudden policy changes.  This was seen as essential to maintain peace and stability, which is a stated objective of all sides. - Cross-Strait policy dialogues between Mainland and Taiwan non-officials should be held and must include views representative of all parties.  Ground rules regarding security and publicity should be observed. [CST 2026 Report Final](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/CST-2026-Report-Final-.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/CST-2026-Report-Final-.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2026 --- ### [LISTEN: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Summer Podcast Series](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-summer-podcast-series/) **Published:** June 23, 2026 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Podcast: A Two-Part Summer Series ## *June 2026* [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/ "Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders") Program Director Emma DeSouza brings together alumni from across three cohorts to interrogate the defining challenges of post-conflict Northern Ireland — from institutional reform to rights, health, and the next generation of leadership. ## Episode 1: Building Capacity for the Future: Health, Talent and Smarter Government Emma DeSouza speaks with Austin Orr and Caolan Rooney about the structural pressures now bearing down on post-conflict institutions: an ageing population, an overstretched health and social care system, and the near-impossible task of long-term policymaking inside short-term political cycles. Drawing on examples from Finland and Estonia, the conversation asks what smarter, more resilient government might actually look like, and ends on an optimistic note, pointing to youth, innovation, and momentum in public health and social change. *Read Austin and Caolan’s 2024 NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders report [here](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2024-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=3).* ## Episode 2: Building an Inclusive Future Recorded against the backdrop of disorder on Northern Ireland’s streets, this episode asks who is truly included in the peace that followed the Belfast Good Friday Agreement. Four alumni tackle political disillusionment, the limits of mandatory power-sharing, misinformation and AI, refugee integration, and the marginalized young people most at risk of exploitation. Jack Armstrong makes the case for reforming how the First and Deputy First Minister are appointed; Leah Rea unpacks the gap between rights on paper and rights in practice; Judith Atwell draws on Northern Ireland’s own history of displacement to reframe the conversation on welcoming refugees; and Katy Haskins zeroes in on the young people that institutions consistently leave behind. The episode closes with optimism in grassroots movements, resilient communities, and a post-conflict generation that refuses to be written off. *Read Judith and Lea’s 2024 NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders report [here](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2024-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=3).* *Read Jack’s 2025 NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders report [here](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=5).* *Read Katy’s 2026 NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders report [here](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/).* **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2026 --- ### [REPORT: The U.S.-China Relationship Heads Toward Stabilization](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-u-s-china-relationship-heads-toward-stabilization/) **Published:** June 11, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** By Susan Thornton and Emily Sparkman *June 2026* In May 2026, NCAFP convened American and Chinese experts for its annual U.S.-China Track II to assess the state of bilateral relations just ahead of the delayed Trump-Xi summit in Beijing and to identify opportunities to reduce the risks of long-term strategic competition. Although participants differed on the causes of current tensions and the appropriate path forward, stabilization emerged as the most realistic and achievable near-term objective for the relationship. Both sides recognized that competition would persist and agreed that an unmanaged rivalry carries far too many significant geopolitical, economic, and military risks. Economic security has become a central arena of competition, as both governments increasingly view trade, technology, and investment through a national security lens. Regional security risks, especially over Taiwan, continue to pose the greatest threat to regional stability, while miscommunication and misperceptions increase the risk of crisis escalation. Despite these challenges, participants identified several areas where cooperation remains not only possible, but desirable, including the significant economic relationship, AI safety, crisis management, military-to-military communications, and fentanyl enforcement. The conference underscored that major breakthroughs are unlikely, even as they welcomed the steadying effects of multiple envisioned leader-level bilateral meetings in 2026. **Key Takeaways and Recommendations** - Competition must be managed to avoid worst-case outcomes. - Mutual misperceptions and inadequate communication are increasing the risk of escalation. - Institutionalize economic, diplomatic, and security communication channels that can survive political transitions. - Establish high-level communication channels for maritime, space, cyber, and AI-related incidents. - Key to managing competition is to reestablish guardrails and find areas of constructive collaboration. - Taiwan remains the most dangerous source of potential U.S.-China conflict, but experts do not expect a direct confrontation in the short term. - U.S. executive branch rhetoric on this issue has been more toned-down and disciplined. - Expand military-to-military communication and crisis-management mechanisms, as existing ones remain insufficient. - Enhance channels for managing spillover effects from third-country tensions (Japan) - Trade and economic issues are likely to remain the dominant focus of diplomacy. - Commerce remains the obvious de facto area of collaboration and needs focus beyond “managed trade.” - Prioritize achievable agreements on trade and fentanyl enforcement. - Expand bilateral cooperation on AI safety, governance, and crisis prevention. - Increase transparency regarding export controls and investment restrictions. - Distinguish clearly between genuine national security concerns and broader commercial competition. [US China Report 2026](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/US-China-Report-2026.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/US-China-Report-2026.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** China **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Convene Policymakers, Civic Leaders, and Stakeholders at Parliament Buildings](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-convene-policymakers-civic-leaders-and-stakeholders-at-parliament-buildings/) **Published:** June 17, 2026 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** *June 10, 2026* The [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/ "Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders") Program returned to [Stormont ](https://www.niassembly.gov.uk/ "Stormont ")for a special event bringing together participants from all three cohorts of the program alongside political representatives, civic leaders, academics, business leaders, and community stakeholders. The gathering highlighted the continued impact of the [Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/ "Emerging Leaders") network and provided a platform for intergenerational dialogue on some of the most pressing issues shaping Northern Ireland’s future. Opening remarks were delivered by [Cara Hunter MLA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cara_Hunter), who welcomed participants and reflected on the importance of investing in the next generation and collaborative approaches to addressing shared challenges. The event underscored the value of creating spaces where leaders from different sectors and backgrounds can exchange ideas and build relationships that strengthen Northern Ireland’s future. ### Building an Inclusive Northern Ireland The first panel explored the theme of inclusion and belonging in a changing society. Featuring [Judith Atwell and Stephen McCrystall](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2 "Judith Atwell and Stephen McCrystall"), the discussion examined the opportunities and challenges involved in creating a more inclusive Northern Ireland. Drawing on their professional experiences and policy papers, the speakers reflected on how institutions, communities, and civic leaders can foster greater participation, representation, and understanding across society. The conversation highlighted the importance of meaningful engagement and sustained commitment to building a future where everyone feels they belong. ### Transatlantic Leadership and Economic Development Moderated by [Program Director Emma DeSouza](https://ncafp.org/staff/ "Program Director Emma DeSouza"), the second panel focused on transatlantic leadership, economic development, and Northern Ireland’s place within the global economy. The discussion featured emerging leaders [Aaron Callan and Declan Barry](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/ "Aaron Callan and Declan Barry"), alongside [Suzanne Wylie, CEO, Northern Ireland Chamber](https://www.northernirelandchamber.com/team-member/suzanne-wylie-2/#:~:text=Suzanne%20is%20the%20Chair%20of,Social%20Care%20Transformation%20Advisory%20Board.). Panelists explored the role of international partnerships, trade, investment, and innovation in supporting long-term prosperity. They also reflected on how emerging leaders can help strengthen transatlantic relationships and position Northern Ireland as a place of opportunity, collaboration, and growth. ### The Next Stage of the Peace Process: Policy Perspectives from Emerging Leaders The final panel brought together Emerging Leaders from across the program to discuss the future of peacebuilding and policy development in Northern Ireland. Moderated by [Olivia Hamill](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/ "Olivia Hamill"), the discussion featured [Austin Orr](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafps-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=3 "Austin Orr"),[ Elisha Duddy, Euan Carroll,](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/ " Elisha Duddy, Euan Carroll,") and [Donal Griffin](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2). Panelists examined the evolving challenges and opportunities facing Northern Ireland nearly three decades after the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement. Discussions ranged from democratic participation and civic trust to economic resilience, sustainability, and the role of emerging leaders in shaping policy solutions. The conversation reflected the program’s emphasis on turning ideas into action and ensuring that the next generation of leaders continues to contribute to peace, prosperity, and progress. ### Looking Ahead: Strengthening Networks and Shaping the Future The Stormont event demonstrated the growing strength of the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders network and the value of bringing together voices from across politics, business, academia, and civil society. By connecting current participants with alumni and key stakeholders, the event reinforced the importance of dialogue, collaboration, and leadership in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Northern Ireland. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC309551-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC302493-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC303008-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC302789-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC309281-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/NC309578-scaled.jpg) **Content Type:** Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2026 --- ### [Beyond Great Power Competition: Middle Power Responses to Strategic Uncertainty in Northeast Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/beyond-great-power-competition-middle-power-responses-to-strategic-uncertainty-in-northeast-asia/) **Published:** June 16, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** By Susan Thornton, Emily Sparkman, and Ashley Quinonez *June 2026* In May 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security convened scholars and practitioners from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and the United States for a closed-door Track II dialogue. Participants examined how to navigate an intensifying U.S.-China competition and its effects on regional allies and partners; how to manage growing economic vulnerabilities amid the politicization of trade and supply chains; and how to preserve dialogue amid deepening mistrust. In the wake of the Trump-Xi summit, regional actors reassessed what a recalibrated U.S.-China relationship means for the region and whether the arrangements they have long relied upon can endure. While the region has avoided direct conflict, many of the assumptions that long underpinned that stability are being tested. **Key Takeaways and Recommendations** - Participants referenced the emergence of “two Americas”: one that views America as the traditional alliance leader for regional stability, and another that embraces a more transactional, less predictable power with unilateral approaches that emphasize burden-sharing, spheres of influence, and selective engagement. - The central policy question is no longer whether regional powers will balance against China’s growing influence, but how that balancing will occur, with or without sustained U.S. leadership. - Allies should reinvigorate and strengthen middle-power networks and multilateral arrangements and use issue-specific coalitions focused on economic security, supply chain resilience, tech governance, and regional security. - Greater transparency about economic objectives and long-term strategic intentions could reduce uncertainty and mitigate risks associated with economic competition. - Governments should seek to balance resilience and security concerns against the economic costs of diversification and derisking strategies. - The window for negotiations on North Korean denuclearization is currently closed as the regime’s nuclear and missile capabilities continue to advance. - Preventing a regional nuclear domino effect remains a shared concern as North Korea’s capabilities become more sophisticated, although participants generally put this as a distant prospect. - Weakening communication channels and declining access to senior decision-makers have made it more difficult for governments to understand one another’s intentions. - Allies and partners should open and strengthen dialogue mechanisms. Preserving opportunities for engagement remains an important tool for narrowing perception gaps and reducing tensions and miscommunication. [4 Party Report 2026](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4-Party-Report-2026.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4-Party-Report-2026.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2026 --- ### [REPORT: Unlocking Cooperation: A Path to Regional Stability in Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-unlocking-cooperation-a-path-to-regional-stability-in-asia/) **Published:** July 1, 2025 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** *By Susan A. Thornton and Emily Sparkman* *July 2025* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s Forum on Asia Pacific Security recently convened experts from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and the U.S. against a complex geopolitical backdrop for a closed-door trilateral (U.S., Japan, ROK) and four-party Track II conference. In keeping with our focus on conflict prevention, discussions focused on fostering regional security cooperation and negotiations to defuse tensions and build confidence among regional players. Despite substantial challenges to regional stability and cooperation, participants recognized the need for their respective governments to build on existing momentum and institutional architecture. - Resumption of dialogue with the DPRK is unlikely until a peace settlement is reached over the Russia-Ukraine war. A sufficient cessation of hostility between these warring states would create room to focus attention on issues on the Korean Peninsula. - Although Russia may not require arms support from the DPRK after the Ukraine conflict ends, the strategic partnership will remain intact. - Traditional regional security forums have been undermined by geopolitical competition and are likely to further recede in the Trump administration. Communication channels should be maintained or increased, even if at a low level or through Track II, as a means of mitigating misperceptions. - “Strategic ambiguity” has preserved the cross-Strait status quo, but must be consistent in its articulation and intent, which should be to act as a deterrent to changes in the status quo by either side of the Strait.  - Allies seek consistency in U.S. policy articulation and consultation regarding any changes. Allied statements, especially from Japan and South Korea, will be crucial in stabilizing the messaging to China in a scenario where U.S. leadership is volatile. - Participants unanimously acknowledged the need for a robust U.S.-ROK-Japan trilateral cooperation system. Such a system is strategic and should be insulated from bilateral irritants that will inevitably crop up. *Read and download the full report below*. [Four Party Report 2025 FINAL](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Four-Party-Report-2025-FINAL.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Four-Party-Report-2025-FINAL.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: U.S. Policy in the Middle East](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-u-s-policy-in-the-middle-east/) **Published:** June 15, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **U.S. Policy in the Middle East with Ambassador Barbara Leaf** *June 3, 2026 With Barbara Leaf Moderated by Susan Elliott* On Wednesday, June 3, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy welcomed members, Trustees, and colleagues to an invitation-only fireside chat with Ambassador Barbara Leaf at New York City’s Cosmopolitan Club. The conversation, moderated by NCAFP’s President and CEO, Ambassador Susan Elliott, offered an overview of existing diplomatic channels and the possible outlook for short-term and lasting stability in the Middle East. Ambassador Leaf delivered salient remarks on U.S.-Middle East relations and how they are reshaping and defining America’s future diplomatic tactics and international engagement. Focusing on the Iran War starting in February 2026, the U.S. and Israel-led military strikes have shifted regional dynamics, which have also transformed Iran’s regime and leadership. Since the initial assaults, there had been sustained engagement, moments of ceasefire, and then promises of renewed negotiations. Helping identify several chokepoints, Ambassador Leaf explained that overreliance on third parties to settle the details of an agreeable framework has delayed efforts. Iran has territorial leverage in potential negotiations, including the possibility of reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, without extensive diplomatic influence in the region, Tehran’s bargaining relies on keeping the Strait closed, creating global supply shortages, and employing drone attacks on neighboring Gulf States. The lack of face-to-face diplomacy between Washington and Tehran, even when their best interests lie in securing a permanent pause in kinetic engagement against each other’s assets, has strained relations and led to poor calculations for both. Ambassador Leaf emphasized that Iran’s uranium enrichment program is a critical part of the long-term agreement, but not an urgent matter for initiating or halting negotiations. It would be wiser to address Iran’s nuclear capabilities using political tools unique to the State Department rather than relying solely on military options.  During the moderated discussion, Ambassador Elliott asked Ambassador Leaf about the most pragmatic steps to restore stability between Washington and Tehran. In her response, she said that applying the right multilateral pressure on Iran would better sustain any new deal on the table, and she concluded that more political solutions should be explored.   This program concluded with audience questions about the effects of prolonged economic sanctions, energy supply chains, Israel-Lebanon engagement, and the prospects for best- and worst-case scenarios. A networking reception followed the event. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AmbLeaf_1-rotated.jpg) Amb Leaf participating in the NCAFP program ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AmbLeaf_AmbElliott_1.JPG) Amb Leaf and Amb Elliott in a moderated discussion ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Guests-_-1.JPG) Moderated conversation on June 3 2026 ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Guests_2.jpeg) Amb Elliott greeting guests as they arrive ##### Featured Speaker **Ambassador** **Barbara Leaf** Ambassador Barbara Leaf served as Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, developing and implementing policies and programs for 18 countries from Morocco to the Arabian Peninsula. During her tenure, she bolstered collaboration among U.S. government agencies, Middle Eastern governments, and their private sectors to deepen business-to-business ties and expand bilateral trade. Ambassador Leaf served from 2014-2018 as U.S. Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, where she oversaw more than 900 personnel and 43 federal agencies and offices in a bilateral diplomatic mission focused on expanding bilateral trade and economic ties, defense and security affairs, among other priorities.  As Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Iraq from 2011-2013, Ambassador Leaf oversaw the transformation of U.S. Mission Iraq to a civilian-led enterprise, and became the first Director of the Department of State’s Office of Iranian Affairs in 2006, formulating policies to contend with threats emanating from Iran’s nuclear and regional activities.  Ambassador Barbara Leaf is a Senior International Policy Advisor at Arnold & Porter in Washington, D.C. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** is the President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She is also an accomplished diplomat, having served for 27 years in a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Her previous overseas assignments include Minister Counselor for Political Affairs in Moscow; Principal Officer in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Deputy Economic Counselor and Visa Section Chief in Athens, Greece. Among many other assignments. Prior to leaving the State Department, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. She also holds a PhD from Indiana University. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2026 --- ### [APPLY: Korean Peninsula Specialist Program 2026-2027](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-korean-peninsula-specialist-program-2026-2027/) **Published:** May 19, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Accepting** **Applications:** **Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program** **Application Submission Period:** Monday, June 1, 2026 – Sunday, June 28, 2026 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to join an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on security issues related to the Korean Peninsula. The project will showcase the new ideas and work of selected participants surrounding the following themes: the changing balance of power in the region, the future of multilateral architecture (with special focus given to either/and Japan or the United States), the nexus of economic and security policies, how to address North Korea’s nuclear challenge, and transnational issues. #### **[Start Your Application Here! ](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdg8M77AvZOBIkDwou1yKzOT2Hjg4SAAXpMpfMcsCbK55y2iQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=105587916602753039391)** ### **What You’ll Gain** - **One-on-one mentorship** with a senior-level policy expert - **Advanced training** in policy writing and public communication - **Network** of rising experts on the Korean Peninsula - In-person conference and workshops in **New York City** - Publication in a professionally **edited policy volume** - Publication of a **podcast episode** with Director Susan Thornton ### **Qualifications and Expectations** Preferred applicants are Ph.D. candidates, junior researchers, and project management professionals with less than 10 years of experience on security issues related to the Korean Peninsula, who are well poised to influence the policy planning process in the future. Participants must commit to the following: - Attending all virtual meetings and workshops (7 virtual roundtables, 2 mentor sessions) - Traveling to NYC for a 2-day in-person conference in early December 2026 - Completing a publishable policy paper aligned with their selected topic - Recording a podcast episode on the policy paper’s topic *\*Please note that, depending on the participant’s nationality, the participant may need to apply for a visa to visit the U.S. and attend the in-person part of the program. The NCAFP cannot guarantee the participant’s obtainment of a visa.* ### **How to Apply:** All materials must be submitted through the [official form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdg8M77AvZOBIkDwou1yKzOT2Hjg4SAAXpMpfMcsCbK55y2iQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=105587916602753039391) by attaching the following items: - Resume/CV - One-page letter of interest, explaining your goals for the program and relevance of your background - Short bio, no more than 300 words - A well-developed one-page prospectus of the research topic related to security issues in the Indo-Pacific, on which the participant will develop policy recommendations. Preference will be given to policy-relevant topics related to the Korean Peninsula and/or Korea’s role in the regional security architecture. \*\*\*Incomplete applications will not be reviewed\*\*\* *Optional additional materials include:* - A letter of recommendation from a peer or professional colleague - A writing sample, no more than 5 pages **Questions or needing assistance with submitting your application? Contact Emily Sparkman, Deputy Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security program at contact@ncafp.org.** [Offical Application Form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1SgnDM1k2D3ip_CkB418qHfkGL9JHvzMUu65qJE9gXdo/edit) [Download the Program Information and Description](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/KP-Emerging-Leaders-Program-Description-2026_FINAL.pdf) [Learn more about the Korean Peninsula Specialists program](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Forum on Asia Pacific-Security's Track II Dialogues](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-forum-on-asia-pacific-securitys-track-ii-dialogues/) **Published:** May 22, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Forum on Asia Pacific-Security’s Track II Dialogues** *May 10-12, 2026 Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) convened a series of high-level Track II discussions in early May 2026. The three separate conferences, which included participants from the United States, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, were held under the Chatham House Rule. These participants included prominent former officials, experts, and scholars from the region and across the U.S. During the **U.S.-China Bilateral Dialogue**, participants from the U.S. and China addressed perceived challenges and aired common concerns regarding their leader-to-leader relationship and the upcoming summits. They also discussed regional security and conflict prevention, economic negotiations and fragmentation, the creation of frameworks for global AI governance, and the surfacing tensions between their respective alliances throughout the region and around the Middle East. The **U.S.-China-Japan-Republic of Korea Track II** followed on day two. As the United States administration recalibrates many of its key alliances, the delegations expressed their shared concerns about how to manage perceived security threats. During the conference, other themes were examined, such as identifying drivers and top priorities in the domestic and international political economy, exploring pathways to re-engage North Korea on nuclear deterrence, and the prospects for greater stability with multilateral and minilateral orders. Participants concluded by stating policy recommendations to ease regional tensions and to prevent miscalculations. The conference concluded with the **U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea Track II.** The three sides discussed the importance of continuing to work on their alliances and strengthening regional security cooperation. In the midst of growing global tensions and unpredictability in U.S.-China relations, constructive policy recommendations were made to cover the short-term and long-term diplomatic maneuvers with a nuclear-armed North Korea and derisking economic interdependence with the United States. A comprehensive report of the discussions and policy recommendations will be available soon. [To read past reports from the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security, please visit here!](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/?resources_content_type=reports&resources_topic=asia-pacific-security&actualPage=1) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2026 --- ### [REPORT: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** May 6, 2026 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026 Report *May 6, 2026* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is pleased to announce the release of the *[Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) Report*. Over the past several months, NCAFP convened the third cohort of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders, a diverse group of scholars and policy practitioners. Through one-on-one mentorship, a series of virtual and in-person discussions, training workshops, delegation visits, and high-level meetings in Belfast, Dublin, and the United States, participants examined some of the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. These engagements informed the report, which addresses topics including USA 250, sustainable agriculture, business growth, reversing brain drain, and more. The result is a forward-looking publication that presents innovative policy ideas and actionable recommendations. It reflects both the complexity of Northern Ireland’s evolving landscape and the fresh perspectives of its rising leaders. These individuals are not only driving progress within their local communities, but also helping to shape the future of transatlantic relations. We invite you to read the full report and learn more about these emerging leaders and their impactful work: [NCAFP NI Leaders 2026](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NCAFP-NI-Leaders-2026.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NCAFP-NI-Leaders-2026.pdf) ***We extend our deepest thanks to the Government of Ireland’s Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, the Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund, the Irish American Partnership, and our entire community of donors and supporters who make this work possible.*** **Content Type:** Edited Volumes, Reports **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: 2025-2026 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/resources/edited-volume-2025-2026-next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) **Published:** April 30, 2026 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## The Korean Peninsula at a Strategic Crossroads: Reimagining Security and Statecraft *April 2026* The NCAFP organized its fourth cohort of Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists from all over the world to develop and share their analysis on challenges on the Korean Peninsula. These policy professionals and scholars spent the last nine months networking with their peers, meeting with mentors, participating in professional development workshops, and writing policy papers on key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. This new Edited Volume, *The Korean Peninsula at a Strategic Crossroads: Reimagining Security and Statecraft,* compiles their policy papers on a range of topics related to issues involving the Korean Peninsula and U.S. policy toward Korea and in the Asia-Pacific region. They cover proposals for migration policy, suggestions for engagement with the DPRK, institutional reform, and a range of other issues. *Read and download the full edited volume below.* [Click here to read the edited volume](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NCAFP_2025-26_KPEL_EV_FINAL.pdf) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2025, 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Second Year of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafp-launches-second-year-of-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-program/) **Published:** March 7, 2025 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## **NCAFP Launches Second Year of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program** NCAFP held the inaugural meeting of the second cohort of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders in Belfast on December 7, 2024. Over the next few months, this group will collaborate on policy proposals focused on critical issues such as human rights, government reform, using the arts for peacebuilding, increasing women’s participation in politics, rural youth development, and healthcare reform. Their key recommendations will be presented at a spring conference in New York City and subsequently published. The opening session set the stage for enhancing transatlantic collaboration and fostering exchanges in the post-Good Friday Agreement era. It challenged outdated perceptions of Northern Ireland, focusing on addressing global challenges that impact both the region and the world, while highlighting the connections between local issues and their international ramifications. Participants engaged in panel discussions with key representatives, including [Karen Devlin from Women’s Aid](https://www.womensaidni.org/about/our-team/),[ Avila Kilmurry of The Social Change Initiative](https://www.socialchangeinitiative.com/), and [Daniel Holder from the Committee on the Administration of Justice](https://caj.org.uk/about-us/structure-and-staff/). The panel covered critical issues such as violence against women and girls, progress in the court system, online disinformation, legacy issues, minority rights, and the global rise of anti-immigration movements. Leaders also received insights from their mentors for 2025—a group of scholars, journalists, experts, and former government officials who will help refine their recommendations into actionable policy. This group includes Nancy Soderberg, Charley Landow, Jennifer Frankola Crawford, Barbara Stephenson, Aidan Connolly, Ted Smyth, Helena Kane Finn, Kevin Kenny, Bridget Foley, Annie Pfozheimer, Martin Flaherty, and John Connorton. The [2024 Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2024-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) spoke to the 2025 cohort, sharing their experiences as the first group of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders and discussing what sets this program apart from other transatlantic mentorship initiatives. They emphasized that the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program focuses on turning ideas into action and provides a valuable platform for driving positive change. [U.S. Consul General James Applegate](https://uk.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/our-consulate-generals/) spoke about the evolving relationship between the United States and Northern Ireland, emphasizing the U.S. component of the program. He highlighted the importance of bipartisan support for Northern Ireland in the United States, the need to strengthen economic ties, and the importance of encouraging U.S. investment in the region. Applegate also addressed the impact of generational differences on U.S.-NI relations, stressing the importance of broadening perspectives on the relationship and sending positive stories back to the United States. He underscored that peace is an ongoing process that requires continuous effort, and that the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program plays a vital role in helping to continue that effort. [Learn more about Northern Ireland’s Emerging Leaders ](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [REPORT: U.S.-China Next Generation Working Group: Reflections Ahead of the Upcoming 2026 Leader Summit](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-u-s-china-next-generation-working-group-reflections-ahead-of-the-upcoming-2026-leader-summit/) **Published:** May 8, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** Multiple Authors *May 2026* The NCAFP, in collaboration with Tsinghua University’s Center for International Security and Strategy’s U.S.-China Young Leaders Working Group, brings together scholars from the United States and China to support ongoing dialogue at a time of heightened tension and limited exchange between both sides. Building on NCAFP’s long-standing Track II engagement, the program creates space for sustained exchange and relationship-building among the next generation of experts shaping the future of U.S.-China ties. The paired essays featured here reflect these exchanges, presenting U.S. and Chinese perspectives on the upcoming Xi-Trump summit and the broader trajectory of the relationship. Across issues ranging from economic cooperation and global governance to artificial intelligence and strategic stability, contributors assess expectations for near-term engagement and outline practical steps to manage competition, reduce risk, and maintain stability amid growing geopolitical uncertainty. “History shows that high-level contact grinds to a halt without the impetus of presidential diplomacy. President Trump’s visit, followed by President Xi’s planned trip to the U.S., will encourage continued dialogue across economic, diplomatic, and military channels.” — SU Liuqiang, *Shanghai Institutes of International Studies* “The US and China should use the upcoming summit to institutionalize additional channels of communication that can help insulate the relationship from unintended escalation in both the economic and political-security realms, to ensure that competition remains managed.”  — Amanda Hsiao, *International Crisis Group* “China–U.S. relations are entering a more contested phase, but both countries remain central to the functioning of the global system. Their actions, or their failure to act, will continue to shape global outcomes. In this sense, global governance is not a secondary concern. It is a structural necessity.” — SUN Chenghao, *Tsinghua University CISS* “With the visit by President Trump to Beijing on the horizon, the two sides should determine to do much more to establish a “Framework for AI Safety” that reaffirms and goes beyond past explorations…The goal of increasing transparency and learning between the U.S. and China on AI efforts in these areas is not to undermine competition; competition will continue.  Given the existential dangers of AI in the U.S.-China context, however, this competition must be constrained by guardrails.  Otherwise, we will both go over the cliff.” — Susan Thornton, *NCAFP* “In recent years, artificial intelligence has moved to the very center of U.S.–China relations….If the relationship is defined primarily as a race, it will reinforce division and mistrust. If, it is understood as a shared challenge—one that combines competition with interdependence—then there remains space for constructive engagement.” — XIAO Qian, *Tsinghua University CISS* “For the upcoming China-U.S. presidential summit, the two countries must center their cooperation on four mutually beneficial priorities to stabilize bilateral relations, inject certainty into the global economy, and lay the groundwork for long-term pragmatic cooperation. While structural divergences cannot be eliminated overnight, targeted progress in these areas can reverse the downward spiral of bilateral relations and deliver tangible benefits to both nations and the wider world.” — YANG Shuiqing, *Institute of American Studies, CASS* *Read and download the full report below*. [NCAFP US-China Working Group 1](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NCAFP-US-China-Working-Group-1-2.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NCAFP-US-China-Working-Group-1-2.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Conference](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-final-presentations-2026/) **Published:** April 21, 2026 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ### **A Week of Engagement Across Washington, DC, and New York City** The 2026 Emerging Leaders Conference brought together the third cohort of NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders to Washington, DC, and New York City for a week of high-level dialogue and exchange. The program emphasized sustained transatlantic engagement in addressing shared political, economic, and social challenges. In New York, they presented refined policy ideas, translating months of work into real-world feedback. As they return home, the cohort continues its work in peacebuilding, democratic resilience, and civic leadership, supported by a growing transatlantic network. Below is a summary of their engagements. To read their final report and learn more, click below: - [**DOWNLOAD THE 2026 REPORT**](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) - [**LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM**](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) - [**MEET THE EMERGING LEADERS**](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) #### Day One: Diplomacy and Transatlantic Engagement The program opened in Washington, DC, at the Atlantic Council, where participants met the Europe Center and Millennium Leadership program to discuss transatlantic priorities. They then visited the U.S. Department of State for a meeting with Courtney E. Austrian, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary overseeing policy for Western Europe and the European Union in the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs. The day concluded with a reception at the Embassy of Ireland, where Deputy Ambassador Fionnuala Quinlan officially launched the program alongside diplomats and stakeholders. #### **Day Two: Dialogue and Thematic Exchange** Hosted with the Northern Ireland Bureau and Georgetown University, Day Two focused on Northern Ireland’s future across four themes: prosperity, governance, climate, and education/AI. Guest speakers included David Blevins (Sky News), Ambassador Philip Reeker (DGA Group), Jonathan Katz (Brookings), Angela Barranco (Climate Group), Tom Ellison (Center for Climate and Security), Ambassador Barbara Stephenson (UNC), and Cóilín Parsons (Georgetown). The cohort also met members of the Ad Hoc Committee to protect the Good Friday Agreement. #### Day Three: Media, Leadership, and Storytelling At the Bank of Ireland in New York, Emerging Leaders presented a series of policy proposals developed throughout the program, addressing topics including heritage tourism, transatlantic economic strategy, talent mobility, AI in education, youth political engagement, and democratic reform. Participants also engaged with guest speakers, including public health leader Margaret Crotty and Pauline Turley of the Irish Arts Center. The program continued with a visit to *The Wall Street Journal* for a discussion with CEO Almar Latour, before concluding with a reception at the Consulate General of Ireland, New York hosted by Consul General Gerald Angley. #### Day Four: Governance, Climate, and Civic Futures Emerging Leader sessions focused on youth paramilitarism, social housing, and climate themes, including energy transition, biomethane development, net-zero infrastructure, and regional equity. Guest speakers on day two included Margaret Molloy, Aidan McKenna (Enterprise Ireland), Sinead Colton Grant (BNY Wealth), Manus McGuire (KX), and journalist Rachel Quigley (CNN Underscored). The day concluded at Glucksman Ireland House at New York University. #### **Day Five: Multilateral Diplomacy and Global Institutions** The final day took place at the United Nations, beginning with Ireland’s Mission to the UN and a tour of UN Headquarters. Participants met Maher Nasser, Director of Outreach at UN Global Communications, to discuss multilateralism and global cooperation, as well as the role of emerging leaders in international institutions. #### Looking Ahead: Dialogue to Impact The conference reinforced the importance of transatlantic collaboration in addressing shared global challenges. The participants leave with strengthened networks, policy experience, and a shared commitment to peacebuilding and democratic resilience. The participants will next present their policy papers to policymakers at Stormont in Belfast, completing the pathway from ideas to impact. ***We extend our deepest thanks to all funders and supporters, including the Government of Ireland’s Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, the Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund, and the Irish American Partnership.*** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6618.jpg) Deputy Ambassador Finnoula Quinlin delivers the opening remarks at the Irish Embassy reception in DC ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6138-1.jpg) Emerging Leaders during a panel discussion in DC ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_7204.JPG) Emerging Leaders meet with Almar Latour CEO of Dow Jones and Pulisher of The Wall Street Journal ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_5820-1.jpg) David Blevins speaks at the conference in DC ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_7608.JPG) Margaret Crotty speaks at the NYC conference ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_7087.JPG) NCAFP Chair Program director and guest panel at the presentations in NY ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6765-1.JPG) Emerging Leaders tour the UN ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6690-1.jpg) France Burwell speaks to emerging leaders at a roundtable at the Atlantic Council ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IMG_6792.jpg) Emerging Leaders at Glucksman Ireland House **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT POSTPONED: The U.S.-Japan Alliance in A Changing World Order](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-the-u-s-japan-alliance-in-a-changing-world-order/) **Published:** February 9, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** **Public Event: The U.S.-Japan Alliance in a Changing World Order** *February 23 \| 6:30 PM ET* *\*This event was postponed due to hazardous weather conditions. Please check our website for any updates.* As strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific intensifies, the U.S.-Japan alliance stands at a pivotal juncture. It serves as an anchor not only for bilateral cooperation but also for broader regional peace, stability, and economic security. While the Indo-Pacific remains strategically vital, the recent 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy framing suggests a more transactional alliance footing, with a renewed call for Japan and other partners to assume greater responsibility for regional deterrence and economic resilience. This recalibration presents both risks and opportunities for the U.S.-Japan partnership, as it navigates great-power competition, domestic pressures, and redefined U.S. commitments in the region. **Susan A. THORNTON**, *Director of NCAFP’s Forum on Asia Pacific Security*, is joined by **Emma CHANLETT-AVERY** of the *Asia Society Policy Institute* and **Ken JIMBO** of *Keio University* to explore how these strategic shifts are reshaping the alliance, from rebalancing force posture and defense industrial cooperation to coordinating economic tools like supply-chain resilience and critical technology policy.  Panelists will assess how changes in U.S. policy impact Japan’s strategy and how both countries can sustain credible deterrence, preserve mutual prosperity, deepen regional integration, and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific. Attendees will gain insight into the evolving calculus of alliance burden-sharing, economic security cooperation, and the future architecture of regional security partnerships in a changing world order. This event is open to NCAFP members and the public. In person only. **The U.S.-Japan Alliance in A Changing World Order** Monday, February 23, 2026 \| 6:30 PM (ET) Doors Open at 6:00 PM Program 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Reception 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM **The Cosmopolitan Club** 122 E 66th St New York, NY 10065 *VENUE DRESS CODE: Guests must wear proper attire in the Club’s public rooms. This means jackets for men and attire of similar formality for women. Denim is not acceptable. Ties are not required. Collared shirts or turtlenecks with a tailored jacket are acceptable.* **Speaker Biographies** **Emma CHANLETT-AVERY** is Deputy Director of the Asia Society Policy Institute’s Washington, DC office and the Director for Political-Security Affairs. Emma leads Congressional outreach efforts and directs ASPI’s policy engagement on Indo-Pacific alliances. Previous to this post, she served for 20 years as a Specialist in Asian Affairs at the Congressional Research Service, where she focused on United States relations with Japan, the Korean Peninsula, Thailand, and Singapore, with an emphasis on security issues. In 2023, she served as a Congressional Fellow on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, assisting the Chairman with drafting Asia policy legislation and preparing for hearings. Ms. Chanlett-Avery was a Presidential Management Fellow, with rotations in the State Department on the Korea Desk and at the Joint United States Military Advisory Group in Bangkok, Thailand. She also worked in the Office of Policy Planning as a Harold Rosenthal Fellow. She is a member of the Mansfield Foundation United States–Japan Network for the Future and a Mansfield-Luce Asia Network Scholar.  She is a recipient of the Kato Prize, awarded by Washington think tanks for strengthening the United States-Japan alliance. She serves as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Japan-America Societies, Counselor of the Board of Trustees of the Japan-America Society of Washington, DC, and a Trustee of International Student Conferences, Inc. Ms. Chanlett-Avery received an MA in international security policy from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University and her BA in Russian studies from Amherst College. **Ken JIMBO** is Professor at the Faculty of Policy Management, Keio University. He served as a Special Advisor to the Minister of Defense, Japan Ministry of Defense (2020) and a Senior Advisor, The National Security Secretariat (2018-20). His main research fields are in International Security, Japan-US Security Relations, Japanese Foreign and Defense Policy, Multilateral Security in Asia-Pacific, and Regionalism in East Asia. He has been a policy advisor for various Japanese governmental commissions and research groups including for the National Security Secretariat, the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His policy writings have appeared in NBR, The RAND Corporation, Stimson Center, Pacific Forum CSIS, Japan Times, Nikkei, Yomiuri, Asahi and Sankei Shimbun. **Susan A. THORNTON** is the Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She is a retired senior U.S. diplomat with almost three decades of experience with the U.S. State Department in Eurasia and East Asia. She is currently a Visiting Lecturer in Law and Senior Fellow at the Yale Law School Paul Tsai China Center.. Thornton is also the a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. Until July 2018, Thornton was Acting Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the Department of State and led East Asia policymaking amid crises with North Korea, escalating trade tensions with China, and a fast-changing international environment. In previous State Department roles, she worked on U.S. policy toward China, Korea and the former Soviet Union and served in leadership positions at U.S. embassies in Central Asia, Russia, the Caucasus and China. Thornton received her M.A. in International Relations from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and her B.A. from Bowdoin College in Economics and Russian. She serves on several nonprofit boards and speaks Mandarin and Russian. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2026 --- ### [The NCAFP Honors the Life and Friendship of Richard Howe, Esq.](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-ncafp-honors-the-life-and-friendship-of-richard-howe-esq/) **Published:** April 7, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** *Richard Howe, Esq.* *April 7, 2026* The NCAFP honors the life and friendship of **Richard Howe, Esq**. Mr. Howe was a long-standing supporter and an integral part of the NCAFP community.  He served on the NCAFP Board of Trustees for many years as the Executive Vice President, Treasurer, and Member of the Executive Committee.  Aside from his generous counsel on the Board, he was an active participant in the NCAFP’s programmatic work and supporter of our annual gala and other fundraising events. Mr. Howe will be remembered for his honesty, accessibility, spirited intellect, and ethical leadership. We are honored by his friendship and support over the years. He was a strong member of the NCAFP leadership and will be missed by all of us. **Richard Howe, Esq**., was a lawyer at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP in New York, specializing in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and financial institutions.  His practice included international transactions in which he represented clients in negotiations with foreign governments, including Liberia, Guinea, Turkey, Jordan, Haiti, China, Australia and Indonesia, among others. Mr. Howe was Chair of the New York State Bar Association Business Law Section in 1992-1993 and was a co-founder of the Soviet-American Banking Law Working Group (SABLAW) which presented a conference on Banking in a Market Economy in Moscow in May 1992.  SABLAW wrote a book on the basics of banking that was translated into Russian, printed by the Russian Central Bank and distributed to law and business schools in Russia.  In 1993, Mr. Howe participated in a similar conference in Mongolia. Mr. Howe participated in the NCAFP’s trips to Kazakhstan in 2005 and 2007 and in NCAFP projects involving U.S.-China relations, Cross-Strait relations, the Korean peninsula and U.S.-Japan relations. In addition to continuing to practice law, Mr. Howe served on Bar Association committees dealing with legal opinions, was President and a director of Peoples’ Symphony Concerts of New York City and was a member of The Corporation of Yaddo of Saratoga Springs, New York. Mr. Howe graduated Yale University (B.A., *magna cum laude*, 1964) and Harvard Law School (J.D., *magna cum laude*, 1967). **Content Type:** Media **Year:** 2026 --- ### [REPORT: U.S.-Japan Relations in Trump 2.0: Gilt or Golden?](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-u-s-japan-relations-in-trump-2-0-gilt-or-golden/) **Published:** May 28, 2025 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** ## **U.S.-Japan Relations in Trump 2.0:** **Gilt or Golden?** *By Susan A. Thornton*  *May 2025* During a recent U.S.-Japan bilateral Track II conference in New York, the NCAFP invited experts, scholars, and practitioners from the U.S. and Japan to discuss and analyze the challenges and opportunities presented by major changes in U.S. foreign policy under the second Trump administration. The NCAFP recommends the following: - Rhetoric about a “New Golden Age” in U.S.-Japan relations exaggerates expectations and could be counterproductive if overplayed. There is a need to demonstrate the value proposition of the alliance in both countries. In this regard, the two sides should take advantage of the potential for a Nippon-U.S. Steel deal, shipbuilding assistance, and other high-profile bilateral endeavors. - The U.S. and Japan should maintain an increased cooperation tempo with regional partners, including the Philippines, South Korea, and the Quad. The two sides should develop consensus contingency plans for holding to a steady state in this cooperation amid domestic political changes. The U.S. should increase engagement with Southeast Asia, which has fallen off since the Obama administration. - The U.S. should not try to force Japanese “decoupling” from China; it should renew Trump 1.0 support for Japan’s “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” strategy. Recall that U.S. strategic assessments about devoting more resources to the Pacific theater stem from the economic importance of Asia-Indo-Pacific countries in the 21st century and the importance of economic dynamism to geopolitics and the global order. - The two governments should seek to preemptively shape Japanese elite conversations about extended deterrence and nuclear options by convening Track 1.5 discussions, noting Japan’s responsibility for upholding the international order and the importance of maintaining the NPT. - Increase student and other people-to-people exchanges, with a special focus on Okinawa. [Click here to read the report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/U.S.-Japan_Report_FINAL_2025.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2025 --- ### [REPORT: Anchoring the Asia-Pacific: The U.S.-Japan Alliance in an Era of Strategic Uncertainty](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-anchoring-the-asia-pacific-the-u-s-japan-alliance-in-an-era-of-strategic-uncertainty/) **Published:** April 2, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** *By Emily Sparkman* *April 2026* In February 2026, the NCAFP convened experts for a closed-door hybrid discussion to discuss the future of the U.S.-Japan bilateral relations, the growing importance of economic security within the alliance, the role of domestic politics, Japan’s evolving defense posture and strategic autonomy, and the resilience of international institutions during a period of global uncertainty. Participants emphasized the alliance’s operational strength, particularly in the military domain, and identified opportunities for the U.S. and Japan to strengthen their partnership and adapt to emerging challenges. Yet, political uncertainty surrounding the direction of U.S. foreign policy and domestic pressures in both countries have raised new questions about the alliance’s long-term trajectory. Is the alliance still too big to fail? *Read and download the full report below*. [US-Japan Report 2026 Final Copy](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/US-Japan-Report-2026-Final-Copy.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/US-Japan-Report-2026-Final-Copy.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Geopolitical Risks and the Future of Multilateral Order](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-geopolitical-risks-and-the-origins-and-future-of-multilateral-order-2/) **Published:** March 19, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Geopolitical Risks and the Future of Multilateral Order** *with Lukas Haynes and Mallory Stewart Monday, March 23, 2026 Moderated by Susan Elliott* *Written by Robert Mugno* On March 23rd, 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), in partnership with the [Ralph Bunche Institute for International Studies](https://ralphbuncheinstitute.org/), hosted a panel discussion at the CUNY Graduate Center in New York City on geopolitical risks and the future of the multilateral order. The evening brought together two seasoned practitioners for a conversation that was equal parts historical reckoning and policy analysis. Dr. Lukas Haynes, a visiting scholar at the Ralph Bunche Institute and author of *Peace Through Power: FDR’s Military Leaders and the Pragmatism of the UN Charter*, opened by reframing a question that has become newly urgent: what was the UN intended to accomplish? His response challenged idealist narratives. The UN’s founding was a product of hard bargaining among realists, driven by three imperatives that remain as relevant today as they were in 1945: sustaining American international engagement, keeping global trade routes open, and preventing another catastrophic great power war. The same political forces that complicated those original negotiations, Haynes argued, are once again shaping the debate. The Honorable Mallory Stewart, CEO of The Council on Strategic Risks and former Assistant Secretary of State for Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability, brought the conversation into the present. With New START expired and strategic competition intensifying across multiple domains, she raised questions about how states manage instability without the guardrails that previous generations established and maintained. She was direct about the risks of “engaging the sake of engagement,” and of the dangers of losing institutional memory as the founding generation of policymakers ages and fewer leaders remember why these frameworks were originally created. The conversation served as a timely reminder for multilateral institutions that building and maintaining the international order was a hard-fought process. The evening’s moderator, Ambassador Susan Elliott, concluded with salient remarks that treaties matter only if parties follow through, and that failure to uphold commitments undermines the credibility of any future diplomatic framework. After the discussion, panelists took audience questions, and a networking reception followed. This program was part of the George D. Schwab Policy Briefing. We are grateful to Dr. Haynes and the Honorable Mallory Stewart for a genuinely substantive evening, and to Ambassador Susan Elliott, President and CEO of the NCAFP, for moderating the discussion. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4939-scaled.jpg) Dr Karetny introducing the panel of speakers ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0362-scaled.jpeg) Hon Stewart Amb Elliott and Dr Haynes in discussion ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0370-scaled.jpeg) Dr Haynes answering audience questions ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0372-scaled.jpeg) The panel answering audience questions ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4968-scaled.jpg) Networking reception after the program ##### Featured Speakers: **The Honorable Mallory Stewart** is the Chief Executive Officer of [The Council on Strategic Risks](https://councilonstrategicrisks.org/), a nonprofit, non-partisan, security policy institute in Washington, DC. Her areas of expertise include weapons of mass destruction and outer space law and policy, and risk management regarding strategic stability and emerging and disruptive technologies. From 2022 to 2025, she served as the Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability in the U.S. Department of State. She joined the bureau after serving as the Senior Director for Arms Control, Disarmament, and Nonproliferation at the National Security Council from January 2021. From 2015 to 2017, Ms. Stewart was Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Emerging Security Challenges and Defense Policy in what was then called the Bureau of Arms Control, Verification and Compliance. Before her time in the Arms Control Bureau, Ms. Stewart served as an attorney adviser in the Department of State’s Office of the Legal Adviser. She joined the Legal Adviser’s Office in 2002, and in that role she worked on numerous legal issues related to nonproliferation, arms control, deterrence, and U.S. participation in international treaties. Ms. Stewart holds an A.B. from Harvard College and a J.D. from Stanford Law School. **Dr. Lukas Haynes** is a visiting scholar at the [Ralph Bunche Institute for International Studies](https://ralphbuncheinstitute.org/) at the CUNY Graduate Center. His research examines the intersection of philanthropic, political, and mission-related investments to protect democratic institutions and national security. For two decades in philanthropy, Haynes shaped strategies at the David Rockefeller Fund, the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, and the Mertz Gilmore Foundation to advance national security, democracy protection, and climate change mitigation.  Haynes is the recent author of *[Peace Through Power: FDR’s Military Leaders and the Pragmatism of the UN Charter](https://fpa.org/product/peace-through-power/) (*Foreign Policy Association, 2025), which analyzes how U.S. military leaders sought to preserve Great Power peace by shaping the UN Charter’s provisions on collective security, the use of force and the veto. From 2000-01, Haynes served on the Policy Planning Staff of the U.S. Department of State as a speechwriter for Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. Haynes has been a visiting Fellow at Stanford’s Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society and a Harvard University Kennedy School Fellow. He is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations since 2000 and serves on the Advisory Board of the Center for Climate and Security. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** is the President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She is also an accomplished diplomat, having served for 27 years in a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Her previous overseas assignments include Minister Counselor for Political Affairs in Moscow; Principal Officer in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Deputy Economic Counselor and Visa Section Chief in Athens, Greece. Among many other assignments. Prior to leaving the State Department, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. She also holds a PhD from Indiana University.  **Mr. Robert Mugno** is the Spring 2026 NCAFP Policy Intern. He is currently a student of History and Political Science at Columbia University. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2026 --- ### [NCAFP Receives Grant Renewal from Carnegie Corporation of New York](https://ncafp.org/resources/press-release-national-committee-on-american-foreign-policy-receives-grant-renewal-from-carnegie-corporation-of-new-york/) **Published:** March 26, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** ## **NCAFP Receives Grant Renewal from Carnegie Corporation of New York to Support Northeast Asia Security Dialogues** *Thursday, March 26, 2026 New York, NY* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) is pleased to announce the renewal of a $600,000, 36-month grant from Carnegie Corporation of New York in support of the Forum on Asia Pacific Security. This renewed support underscores the continued importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty in the Asia-Pacific region. Through this grant, NCAFP will advance Track II and Track 1.5 dialogues that convene leading experts, policymakers, and emerging voices from the United States and Northeast Asia to address critical issues, including regional stability, deterrence, economic security, and crisis management. “We are deeply grateful to Carnegie Corporation of New York for its continued support and confidence in our work,” said Ambassador Susan M. Elliott, President and CEO, NCAFP. “At a moment when strategic competition and regional tensions are intensifying, the need for trusted, non-governmental channels of communication has never been greater. This support enables us to foster candid, forward-looking discussions that can help inform policy and reduce the risk of miscalculation.” For decades, NCAFP has played a unique role in bridging divides and facilitating dialogue on some of the most sensitive security issues in Northeast Asia. Our programs bring together diverse perspectives across generations and nationalities, helping to build mutual understanding and identify practical pathways for cooperation. The renewed grant will also support efforts to cultivate the next generation of policy leaders, ensuring continuity in dialogue and fresh approaches to longstanding challenges in the region. As tensions persist across Northeast Asia, including on the Korean Peninsula and across the Taiwan Strait, NCAFP initiatives remain vital to promoting informed dialogue, reducing risks, and strengthening the foundation for a more stable and secure international order. **About the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP)** Founded in 1974, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to helping policymakers make well-informed foreign policy decisions. NCAFP conducts Track II dialogues and public programs on critical international issues, with a longstanding focus on Northeast Asia, U.S.-China relations, and the Korean Peninsula. For more information, visit our website at [www.ncafp.org](http://www.ncafp.org/). **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Roundtable with Col. Corey Trusty, U.S. Space Force](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-roundtable-with-col-corey-trusty-u-s-space-force/) **Published:** March 12, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Roundtable with Col. Corey Trusty, U.S. Space Force** *With Corey L. Trusty Moderated by Susan Elliott* *March 5, 2026 Written by Robert Mugno* On March 5th, 2026, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) held an in-person roundtable with Space Force Colonel and Council on Foreign Relations Military Fellow, Corey L. Trusty, in New York City. During the conversation, participants engaged in insightful discussions surrounding Space Defense issues, priorities and its intersection with U.S. National Security. In their conversation, they explored how space has rapidly evolved from a distant and largely scientific domain into a critical arena of strategic competition and national security. The discussion emphasized that modern military operations increasingly rely on space-based infrastructure for communications, intelligence, surveillance, and targeting, making the protection of these systems essential to maintaining deterrence and advantage. Participants noted that strategic competitors such as China and Russia are actively developing counterspace capabilities, which include anti-satellite weapons, directed-energy systems, and cyber tools to challenge U.S. dominance in orbit. The discussion also emphasized how the United States is responding by strengthening the role of the U.S. Space Force, whose mission is to organize, train, and equip forces to operate in the space domain while ensuring the continued accessibility and resilience of critical space systems. Special attention was given to the growing integration of commercial partners, which now launch rockets, provide satellite imagery, and build key infrastructure supporting space operations. In this environment, deterrence increasingly relies on building resilient networks, expanding partnerships with allies, and integrating capabilities across land, sea, air, cyber, and space to maintain strategic stability in an increasingly contested domain. By convening experienced leaders, strategic thinkers, innovators, and investors, the discussion examined emerging challenges and developments shaping the space domain. Ambassador Susan Elliott, CEO and President of the NCAFP, moderated this informative conversation and facilitated the questions from the roundtable participants. We are grateful to our distinguished participants for their thoughtful engagement and contributions. This program was part of the George D. Schwab Policy Briefing series. Image: Propelling Satellites into Space, [spaceforce.mil](https://www.spaceforce.mil/Multimedia/Photos/igphoto/2002222270/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0312-scaled.jpg) Col Trusty giving an introduction about US Space Force ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/unnamed-6-1.jpg) Col Corey Trusty US Space Force ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0317-scaled.jpg) Amb Elliott speaking with guests ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/unnamed-6-scaled.jpg) Col Trusty answering participants questions ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0322-scaled.jpg) ColTrusty and Amb Elliott in conversation after the event ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0318-scaled.jpg) Col Trusty and Amb Elliott with NCAFP members and staff ##### **Featured Speakers:** **Colonel Corey L. Trusty**, U.S. Space Force, is a Military Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. Colonel Trusty most recently served as the military deputy, international affairs space division, at the Pentagon. Colonel Trusty currently creates, advocates for, and facilitates Department of the Air Force and U.S. Space Force space security cooperation policies and programs that advance U.S. national security objectives through political-military affairs, cooperative research and development, acquisition, and foreign military sales. Those policies and programs enable access to information, systems, education, and training that deliver enhanced operational capabilities to allies, partners, and coalition warfighters. Colonel Trusty was commissioned as a second lieutenant in June 2004 with a  master’s degree in public health from American Military University and a bachelor’s degree in biology and bioethics from Tuskegee University. He is a career space officer, but has diverse experience in ballistic missile early warning, space domain awareness, spacelift, space control, intelligence, cyber, nuclear deterrence operations and special operations. He has deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and International Security Assistance Force. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** is the President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She is also an accomplished diplomat, having served for 27 years in a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Her previous overseas assignments include Minister Counselor for Political Affairs in Moscow; Principal Officer in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Deputy Economic Counselor and Visa Section Chief in Athens, Greece. Among many other assignments. Prior to leaving the State Department, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. She also holds a PhD from Indiana University. **Mr. Robert Mugno** is the Spring 2026 NCAFP Policy Intern. He is currently a student of History and Political Science at Columbia University. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Roundtable with the Honorable Kreshnik Ahmeti, Republic of Kosovo](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-roundtable-with-the-honorable-kreshnik-ahmeti-republic-of-kosovo/) **Published:** March 19, 2026 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Roundtable with the Honorable Kreshnik Ahmeti, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kosovo** *With Kreshnick Ahmeti Februrary 18, 2026 Moderated by Susan Elliott* On Wednesday, February 18, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy welcomed the Honorable Kreshnik Ahmeti, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, and this esteemed delegation, for a private roundtable discussion.  The conversation provided an informative framework of the domestic and foreign security challenges confronting Pristina.  Topics included navigating its prospective membership in the European Union and the Council of Europe, with the latter offering more promising avenues.  These two multilateral organizations have placed particular emphasis on human and minority rights, broad integration of democratic European states, and significant use of judicial processes and oversight — values that underpin the Kosovo constitution. The conversation was moderated by NCAFP President and CEO Ambassador (ret) Susan Elliott.  Program participants included academics, foreign diplomats, NGO specialists, and international business developers and lawyers. This program was part of the George D. Schwab Foreign Policy Briefing. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0264-scaled.jpg) The Hon Ahmeti and Amb Elliott engaged in conversation ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0272-copy.jpeg) The Hon Ahmeti speaking to NCAFP members and guests ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0273-scaled.jpg) The Hon Ahmeti answering questions from the roundtable ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0277-scaled.jpg) The Hon Reka Amb Elliott and the Hon Ahmeti left to right ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_0283-scaled.jpg) Students from Bard College attending the event ##### **Featured Speakers:** **The** **Honorable Kreshnik Ahmeti** is the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora of the Republic of Kosovo. Mr. Kreshnik Ahmeti is serving his second term as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora of the Republic of Kosovo. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from North Dakota State University (USA) and a degree in Economics from the University of Pristina. Previously, he served as Chief of Cabinet at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and as Secretary for Foreign Relations of Lëvizja VETËVENDOSJE! During his first term as Deputy Minister, he oversaw international organizations, defence and security, and bilateral relations across multiple regions, leading Kosovo’s membership efforts in key international bodies, including the Council of Europe. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** is the President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She is also an accomplished diplomat, having served for 27 years in a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Her previous overseas assignments include Minister Counselor for Political Affairs in Moscow; Principal Officer in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Deputy Economic Counselor and Visa Section Chief in Athens, Greece. Among many other assignments. Prior to leaving the State Department, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. She also holds a PhD from Indiana University. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Ukraine: Moving Towards Peace?](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-ukraine-moving-towards-peace/) **Published:** October 27, 2025 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Ukraine: Moving Towards Peace? with Amb. Melnyk and Amb. Popadiuk** *October 15, 2025* *with Andrii Melnyk and Roman Popadiuk* *Moderated by Susan Elliot*t *Written by William Robbins* In partnership with the [Ralph Bunche Institute for International Studies](https://ralphbuncheinstitute.org/) at the City University of New York (CUNY), the National Committee on American Foreign Policy hosted an invitation-only program about the ongoing war in Ukraine and its impact on regional and global security. This conversation featured Ambassador Andrii Melnyk, Permanent Representative of the Ukraine Mission to the United Nations, Ambassador (ret.) Roman Popadiuk, former and first U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, and Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott, President and CEO of the NCAFP, who also moderated the discussion After almost four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of the country, Ukraine’s resistance remains as a defining factor in greater European stability. Ambassador Melnyk noted that the evolving relationship between Kyiv and Washington reflects a new “atmosphere of trust” and encouraged further engagement to support a long-term partnership. The conversation also addressed U.S. weapons packages to Ukraine, namely, the potential transfer of Tomahawk cruise missiles. Ambassador Popadiuk explained that providing Ukraine with long-range weapons could force the Russians to “consider their position.” Tomahawk missiles would grant Ukraine the ability to strike critical infrastructure deep within Russian territory, especially oil and gas refineries that are driving its current war-time economy. Nonetheless, concerns regarding equipment availability and delivery remain. Ambassador Melnyk reflected that Ukraine relies on united military, economic, and diplomatic pressure to achieve peacebuilding initiatives. He also stated the importance of implementing secondary sanctions. Such sanctions would be imposed on nations that indirectly finance Russia’s war offensive through energy imports. Both featured speakers noted that transatlantic alignment is essential to effective restrictions while signaling a unified front. Ambassador Popadiuk reiterated that consistent, forward-focused U.S. support remains vital for Ukrainian deterrence. However, he cautioned against implementing restrictions on Ukraine’s usage of weapons systems, as not to limit strategic flexibility or to provide Moscow with advanced warning as negotiation efforts are ongoing. Both Ambassadors agree that a Ukrainian recovery cannot be postponed until the end of war fighting. Reconstruction efforts, which are now estimated to be in excess of $524 billion, will require coordination between governments, multilateral institutions, and the private sector. They stressed that the human aspects of reconstruction (safe returns, education, community rebuilding) will heavily influence the success of any future peace agreement. The discussion examined how Russia’s domestic political climate and closed information systems support the endurance of the Russian war effort. Ambassador Popadiuk added that a stalemate situation would depend on battlefield conditions or could evolve if internal change within Russia alters its course. Ambassador Elliott provided the concluding remarks and stated that, although we are witnessing early efforts by the Trump Administration to negotiate a ceasefire, both the Russians and the Ukrainians are proud nations and would need to make difficult compromises — either in territory or in security guarantees —to find a resolution. Questions taken from the audience ranged from hybrid and information-warfare, the recent airspace violations from Russia, and the dedication of nonprofits helping with displacement and refugee resettlements. A light reception followed the program, and audience members continued with informal conversations with the distinguished panel. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1-Allspeakers1_6360.jpg) Dr Eli Karetny Director of The Ralph Bunche Institute introducing the program ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2-Popadiuk_6304.JPG) Amb Roman Popadiuk providing analysis on the Ukraine War ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3-Melnyk_6288.jpg) Amb Andrii Melnyk answering a question from the moderator Amb Susan Elliott ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/4-QA_6232.JPG) Audience member asking a question to the panel ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/5-PopadiukStudents_6069.JPG) Amb Popadiuk speaking with students ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/6-SusanAndrii_6221.jpg) Amb Elliott and Amb Melnyk converse during the reception ##### Featured Speakers **Ambassador (ret.) Roman Popadiuk** (Ph.D. ’81, Political Science), Former United States Ambassador to Ukraine, President of the Diplomacy Center Foundation, Diplomat in Residence at the Ralph Bunche Institute. Roman Popadiuk is a retired member of the Senior Foreign Service. Born in a displaced persons camp in Austria following World War II to Ukrainian parents, he rose to serve as the first U.S. ambassador to Ukraine from 1992 to 1993. Prior to that, he served as deputy assistant to the president and deputy press secretary for foreign affairs under President George H.W. Bush, positions he also held toward the end of President Ronald Reagan’s administration. From 1999 to 2012, he was the executive director of the George Bush Presidential Library Foundation at Texas A&M University. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Hunter College Hall of Fame. **Ambassador Andrii Melnyk** is the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations, and is a senior member of the Ukrainian foreign service. Previously, Ambassador Melnyk served as the Ambassador of Ukraine to Brazil (2023–2025), Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (2022–2023), and as the Ambassador of Ukraine to the Federal Republic of Germany. He has held a Director General post in Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2010–2014), which saw him stationed in Austria and Germany. In this capacity, he worked closely on Ukraine’s security cooperation initiatives and European integration strategy. Ambassador Melnyk holds a PhD in International and Comparative Law from the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and joined Ukraine’s National Security Program at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. He is the author of numerous publications in the field of international public law, and has been the recipient of Ukraine’s first-class, second-class, and third-class Order of Merit awards. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** is the President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. She is also an accomplished diplomat, having served for 27 years in a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Her previous overseas assignments include Minister Counselor for Political Affairs in Moscow; Principal Officer in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Deputy Economic Counselor and Visa Section Chief in Athens, Greece. Among many other assignments. Prior to leaving the State Department, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. She also holds a PhD from Indiana University. **Mr. William Robbins** is the Fall 2025 NCAFP Policy Intern. He is currently a student of Chinese Studies and Linguistics at Fordham University. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Hold High-Level Meetings in Dublin](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recapnorthern-ireland-emerging-leaders-hold-high-level-meetings-in-dublin/) **Published:** March 9, 2026 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Hold High-Level Meetings in Dublin *March 9, 2026* The NCAFP [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) gathered in Dublin for a series of high-level meetings with government officials, diplomats, academics, and business leaders as they refined and presented their policy proposals. The Emerging Leaders program brings together community leaders from across Northern Ireland who are developing forward-thinking solutions for the region while strengthening transatlantic and trilateral relationships. The Dublin visit marked a key milestone in the program, giving participants the opportunity to test and refine their ideas ahead of their publication and presentations in New York City later this year. [Now in its third cohort](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/), the program is addressing a wide range of policy challenges. Many proposals focus on business development, economic growth, trade, and climate solutions and justice. Other projects examine issues such as youth paramilitarism, housing, and the role of AI in education. The program began with a meeting at Leinster House with Senator [Mark Daly](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Daly_(politician)), a Fianna Fáil politician who currently serves as Cathaoirleach (Chairperson) of Seanad Éireann. Daly, founder of the American-Irish State Legislators Caucus and a longtime advocate for strengthening U.S.-Ireland ties, spoke with the cohort about the importance of the U.S.-Ireland-Northern Ireland relationship and the role of transatlantic partnerships in promoting cooperation and opportunity. The Emerging Leaders then participated in a roundtable lunch with the Deputy British Ambassador at the British Embassy in Dublin. The discussion allowed participants to explore their policy topics in greater depth and consider opportunities for collaboration among the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Northern Ireland on shared challenges. Later, the group met with officials from Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, including representatives from the [Reconciliation Fund](https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-foreign-affairs/services/reconciliation-fund/). During this working session, participants presented their policy proposals and received real-time feedback from government representatives in a workshop-style discussion. The cohort also visited the [Shared Island Unit](https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-the-taoiseach/campaigns/shared-island/) within the Department of the Taoiseach, where they learned more about the Irish government’s efforts to strengthen cross-border cooperation and develop shared policy solutions across the island. The Dublin program concluded the following day with a half-day conference held in partnership with the[ Clinton Institute at University College Dublin](https://www.ucdclinton.ie/). The event featured panel discussions exploring the future of transatlantic relations and economic cooperation. The opening panel included [Christina Finn,](https://x.com/christinafinn8) Political Editor of The Journal.ie; [Scott Lucas](https://www.ucdclinton.ie/our-staff/scott-lucas) of the Clinton Institute; and [Liam Kennedy](https://people.ucd.ie/liam.kennedy) of the Clinton Institute. Speakers discussed the evolving transatlantic relationship and the continued importance of diplomacy, democratic values, and international cooperation. The second panel focused on economic ties and opportunities for growth in trade and business. Speakers included [Danny McCoy](https://www.ibec.ie/staff-profile/danny-mccoy), CEO of IBEC; [Paul Sweetman](https://www.amcham.ie/who-we-are/meet-team-amcham/), CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland; and [Margaret Hearty](https://intertradeireland.com/staff/margaret-hearty), CEO of InterTradeIreland. The discussion was moderated by program director [Emma DeSouza](https://ncafp.org/staff/). The Dublin meetings provided the Emerging Leaders with valuable insights, feedback, and new connections as they continue refining their proposals and working to translate their policy ideas into actionable solutions. If you would like to support this program, participate as a speaker, partner with us, or attend a future event, please contact our Program Development Officer at shaina.katz@ncafp.org for more information. [READ MORE HERE](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/) *We extend our deepest thanks to the Government of Ireland’s Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, the Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund, the Irish American Partnership, and our entire community of donors and supporters who make this work possible.* ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4624.JPG) Emerging Leaders with the Deputy British Ambassador at the British Embassy in Dublin ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4654.JPG) Emerging Leaders ask Senator Mark Daly questions ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4567.JPG) Emerging Leaders discussing their papers at Irelands Department of Foreign Affairs ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4444.JPG) Emerging Leaders and Emma DeSouza at the Department of the Taoiseach ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_4382.JPG) Emerging Leaders at the Clinton Institute at University College Dublin **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: 2025 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists In-Person Conference](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-2025-next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists-conference/) **Published:** March 6, 2026 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** *February 2026* In February, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) welcomed its fourth cohort of Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists in New York City for an in-person conference. Over three days, the cohort refined their policy papers on Korean Peninsula security and gained practical insight into how policy ideas move from draft to public debate. The program opened with peer review sessions, where Emerging Leaders presented draft papers and strengthened their analysis through candid feedback. [Daniel Kurtz-Phelan](https://www.cfr.org/experts/daniel-kurtz-phelan), Editor of *Foreign Affairs*, joined the cohort to discuss pitching policy work and contributing to public debate. The day wrapped up with a podcast and media workshop led by [Ankit Panda](https://www.ankitpanda.com/) of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, where he shared his expertise on public communication and interview preparation. The second day featured in-depth roundtables across New York City. At the Asia Society Policy Institute, [Daniel Russel ](https://asiasociety.org/policy-institute/daniel-russel)welcomed the cohort for a dialogue on regional security dynamics on the Korean Peninsula. The group also met with [Nick Thompson](https://www.nickthompson.com/), CEO of *The Atlantic*, to examine editorial decision-making and how policy specialists can translate their work for broader audiences. The program continued at [The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/), where the fellows engaged in a discussion with [Keith Luse](https://www.ncnk.org/member-directory/keith-luse-0), Executive Director of the National Committee on North Korea, on U.S.-Korea policy engagement. The second day of the convening concluded with a public event co-hosted with The Korea Society and Columbia University’s [APEC Study Center](https://business.columbia.edu/apec), [“Prospects for Relations with North Korea.”](https://www.koreasociety.org/policy-and-corporate-programs/2110-prospects-for-relations-with-north-korea ""Prospects for Relations with North Korea."") The in-person conference concluded with a Track II discussion and a roundtable with Sonja Bachmann of the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs on international diplomacy and peacebuilding. By bringing together emerging specialists and experienced leaders in the field, the program supports the development of the next generation of policy professionals working on issues related to the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia. We are grateful to the distinguished speakers and participants for their thoughtful engagement and contributions. Thank you to the Korea Foundation for their support of our program. [Meet the 2025 cohort here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/2025-cohort/) [Learn more about the program here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) [Click here to view the public event recording](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-prospects-for-relations-with-north-korea/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Ford-scaled.jpg) Emerging Leaders Roundtable Discussion with Susan Elliott Susan Thornton and Emily Sparkman ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Fitzpatrick-Group-Photo-scaled.jpeg) Emerging Leaders at the Fitzpatrick Grand Central Hotel ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/TKS-copy-2-scaled.jpg) Public Event Co Hosted with The Korea Society and the APEC Study Center ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ASPI-scaled.jpg) Emerging Leaders at the Asia Society Policy Institute with Daniel Russel Susan Elliott Susan Thornton Emily Sparkman Nia Williams and Ashley Quinonez **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2026 --- ### [EVENT: Prospects for Relations with North Korea](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-prospects-for-relations-with-north-korea/) **Published:** January 15, 2026 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Prospects for Relations with North Korea** *February 3, 2026* *Produced in collaboration with The Korea Society and co-hosted by The APEC Study Center* Join us for a program examining prospects for relations with North Korea, including U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) alliance coordination, inter-Korean relations, the impact of North Korea’s close relations with China and Russia, security concerns, and diplomatic opportunities. It is expected that North Korea’s Workers’ Party of Korea will hold its Ninth Party Congress in January or February. This important gathering occurs approximately once every five years and is likely to result in the announcement of important policy positions that could possibly create space for the U.S. and South Korea to pursue diplomatic engagement. How should the ROK and the U.S. proceed and what are the prospects for decreasing threats from North Korea’s extensive nuclear program? To unpack these developments, we assemble an expert panel with decades of experience working on and dealing directly with North Korea, including: **Keith Luse**, Executive Director of the National Committee on North Korea, **Ankit Panda**, Stanton Senior Fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and author of *The New Nuclear Age: At the Precipice of Armageddon*, **Rachel Minyoung Lee**, Senior Fellow for the Stimson Center’s Korea Program and *38 North*, and **Susan A. Thornton**, Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP). The discussion is moderated by **Jonathan Corrado**, Policy Director at The Korea Society. This program is produced in collaboration with **[The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/)** and is co-hosted by **[The APEC Study Center](https://business.columbia.edu/apec)** at Columbia University. **Prospects for Relations with North Korea** Tuesday, February 3, 2026 \| 6:30 PM (ET) **The Korea Society** 350 Madison Avenue, 24th Floor New York, NY 10017 --- **About the speakers:** **Keith Luse** is the Executive Director of the National Committee on North Korea. Previously, Luse was the Senior East Asia Policy Advisor for Chairman and later Ranking Member Senator Richard G. Lugar at the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee from 2003 until 2013. Luse also served as Staff Director for Mr. Lugar at the Senate Agriculture Committee from 1999 through 2002, where the Senator also served as Chairman and later Ranking Member. While at the Senate Agriculture Committee, Luse made the first of eventually five trips to North Korea. In addition to assisting Senator Lugar at the Foreign Relations Committee on legislative initiatives, Luse directed or participated in several oversight projects and investigations. They included the integrity of the U.S. – funded humanitarian assistance distribution process inside North Korea; the murder of Americans in Papua, Indonesia; corruption and transparency challenges at The Asia Development Bank and The World Bank, and an evaluation of the effectiveness of U.S. foreign assistance to countries in East Asia with an emphasis on Cambodia and Indonesia. Luse has traveled extensively in East Asia including five visits to North Korea, and has participated in numerous Track 1.5 and Track 2 sessions about North Korea or with North Korean officials outside of their country. Luse’s Bachelor of Arts degree in political science is from Indiana University. His graduate certificate in public management and additional graduate studies were obtained at Indiana University – Purdue University, Indianapolis. **Ankit Panda** is the Stanton Senior Fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. His research interests include nuclear strategy, escalation, missiles and missile defense, space security, and U.S. alliances. He is the author of The New Nuclear Age: At the Precipice of Armageddon (Polity, 2025), Indo-Pacific Missile Arsenals: Avoiding Spirals and Mitigating Risks (Carnegie, 2023), and Kim Jong Un and the Bomb: Survival and Deterrence in North Korea (Hurst/Oxford, 2020). Panda is co-editor of New Approaches to Verifying and Monitoring North Korea’s Nuclear Arsenal (Carnegie, 2021). Panda has consulted for the United Nations in New York and Geneva, and his analysis has been sought by U.S. Strategic Command, Space Command, and Indo-Pacific Command. Panda is among the most highly cited experts worldwide on North Korean nuclear capabilities. He has testified on matters related to South Korea and Japan before the congressionally chartered U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Panda has also testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Strategic Forces. Before joining Carnegie, Panda was an adjunct senior fellow at the Federation of American Scientists and a journalist covering international security. Panda is a frequent expert commentator in print and broadcast media around the world on nuclear policy and defense matters. His work has appeared in or been featured by the New York Times, the New Yorker, the Economist, the Washington Post, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, the Atlantic, the New Republic, the South China Morning Post, Politico, and the National Interest. Panda has also published in scholarly journals, including Survival, the Washington Quarterly, and India Review, and has contributed to the IISS Asia-Pacific Regional Security Assessment and Strategic Survey. He is editor-at-large at the Diplomat, where he hosts the Asia Geopolitics podcast, and a contributing editor at War on the Rocks, where he hosts Thinking the Unthinkable With Ankit Panda, a podcast on nuclear matters. **Rachel Minyoung Lee** is a Senior Fellow for the Stimson Center’s Korea Program and 38 North. She is also co-chair of the North Korea Economic Forum, which is part of the policy program at the George Washington University’s Institute for Korean Studies (GWIKS). Lee was a North Korea collection expert and analyst with Open Source Enterprise (OSE; formerly known as Open Source Center) in the US government from 2000 to 2019. During that time, she wrote on the gamut of North Korean issues, from leadership, domestic politics and economy, and foreign policy, to social and cultural developments. As Analysis Team Lead, Lee led a team of collection officers and analysts to track and analyze North and South Korean issues with implications for Pyongyang’s regime stability and regional security. Most recently, from 2022 to early 2024, Lee headed engagement and network-building efforts at the Vienna-based Open Nuclear Network (ONN). In July 2025, she was a POSCO Visiting Fellow at the East-West Center in Hawaii. Lee earned her B.A. in English literature and her M.A. in international law, both at Korea University in Seoul. **Susan A. Thornton** is the Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the NCAFP, Visiting Lecturer in Law at Yale Law School and Senior Fellow at the Paul Tsai China Center. In 2018, she retired from the State Department after a 28-year diplomatic career focused primarily on East and Central Asia. In leadership roles in Washington, Thornton worked on China and Korea policy, including stabilizing relations with Taiwan, the U.S.-China Cyber Agreement, the Paris Climate Accord and led a successful negotiation in Pyongyang for monitoring of the Agreed Framework on denuclearization. In her 18 years of overseas postings in Central Asia, Russia, the Caucasus and China, Thornton’s leadership furthered U.S. interests and influence and maintained programs and mission morale in a host of difficult operating environments. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, she was among the first State Department Fascell Fellows and served from 1989–90 at the U.S. Consulate in Leningrad. She was also a researcher at the Foreign Policy Institute from 1987–91. Thornton holds degrees from the National Defense University’s Eisenhower School, the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and Bowdoin College. She speaks Russian, Mandarin Chinese and French, is a member of numerous professional associations and is on the Board of Trustees for the Eurasia Foundation. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2026 --- ### [REPORT: Stability at an Inflection Point: U.S. Strategy in a Changing Northeast Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-stability-at-an-inflection-point-u-s-strategy-in-a-changing-northeast-asia/) **Published:** January 27, 2026 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** *By Susan A. Thornton, Emily Sparkman,* *and Nia Williams* *January 2026* A delegation from the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) visited Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo in December 2025 to discuss regional security issues and U.S. foreign policy in Northeast Asia. Last year proved impactful for U.S. relations with East Asia, as shifting regional dynamics heightened strategic competition with China, and renewed diplomatic engagement amid leadership transitions in Japan and the Republic of Korea took shape. Interlocutors in Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo understand that major changes in U.S. foreign and security policy are underway. Despite uncertainties, contacts maintain the desire for a continued U.S. presence in the region. However, they hold differing views on what a U.S. presence should entail, and seek a greater definition of what an altered, yet sustained U.S. role would look like. *Read and download the full report below*. [Asia Trip 2025 Report FINAL](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Asia-Trip-2025-Report-FINAL-1-2.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Asia-Trip-2025-Report-FINAL-1-2.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2026 --- ### [AWARDS: NCAFP’s 2025 Gala Awards Dinner](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafp-2025-gala-awards-dinner/) **Published:** September 2, 2025 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** *Tuesday, November 18, 2025 The Metropolitan Club, New York City* On Tuesday, November 18, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted its 2025 Annual Gala Dinner at the Metropolitan Club in New York City. More than 200 distinguished guests from the diplomatic and policy communities, media, academia, and the private sector joined friends and supporters of the organization for an evening focused on advancing informed dialogue and constructive engagement in American foreign policy. The program was led by Ms. Jacqueline Adams, Emmy Award-winning journalist and NCAFP Trustee, who served as the host. Ms. Adams guided discussions on today’s most pressing challenges and emphasized the importance of diplomacy in an increasingly complex global environment. Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott, President and CEO of the NCAFP, delivered remarks underscoring the critical role of connection and thoughtful engagement in preventing and resolving conflict. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/1-978x550.jpg) NCAFP Trustee and Senior Vice President Donald S. Rice delivered a tribute honoring the legacy of Dr. Donald Zagoria, founder of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security. Mr. Rice reflected on Dr. Zagoria’s decades of leadership, his commitment to open dialogue in the Asia-Pacific region, and his enduring impact on the organization’s work in international security and regional stability. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Add-a-subheading-978x550.jpg) Ms. Susan A. Thornton, Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security, presented the George F. Kennan Award for Public Service to Ambassador (ret.) Kathleen Stephens, former U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea. Ambassador Stephens shared insights from her distinguished diplomatic career, highlighting her experiences in Belfast, Seoul, and other postings, and discussed the hands-on diplomatic efforts required to build peace and strengthen alliances. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Add-a-subheading-1-1-978x550.jpg) NCAFP Trustee Nick Thompson, CEO of *The Atlantic*, presented the Global Business Leadership Award to Mr. Almar Latour, CEO of Dow Jones and Publisher of *The Wall Street Journal*, in recognition of his leadership in protecting press freedom and supporting the work of journalists. Mr. Thompson highlighted Mr. Latour’s role in advocating for the release of journalist Evan Gershkovich. In his remarks, Mr. Latour emphasized the essential importance of journalism and access to information. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Add-a-subheading-2-978x550.jpg) Chairman of the NCAFP, Tomas Hexner, closed the evening by noting that now is a pivotal moment to support organizations committed to diplomacy. He reflected on the inspiration drawn from a room filled with individuals dedicated to strengthening dialogue and international understanding. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Add-a-subheading-3-978x550.jpg) Throughout the evening, attendees engaged with leaders across sectors on the foreign policy challenges shaping the global landscape today. Discussions centered on U.S. global leadership, conflict prevention, and the NCAFP’s longstanding role in facilitating dialogue in regions of geopolitical tension. The event reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting informed policy and supporting diplomacy as a pathway to addressing global challenges. The NCAFP extends its appreciation to our sponsors, trustees, partners, and community members whose support strengthens our mission and impact. *For questions or inquiries about supporting the NCAFP’s work, please contact our Program Development Officer, Shaina Katz,* at shaina.katz@ncafp.org. [2025 GALA PROGRAM](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Gala-program1-11.18.252.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Gala-program1-11.18.252.pdf) ## **Honorees** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-794-scaled-e1764093846419.jpg) **Almar Latour** Almar Latour is publisher of *The Wall Street Journal* and CEO of Dow Jones, a world-leading news and business information services company. A journalist-turned-business leader, Almar combines a passion for news and technology with rich global experience and an entrepreneurial drive. Under his leadership, Dow Jones has doubled digital subscriptions and achieved record profits and revenue, while safeguarding the *Wall Street Journal’s* reputation as one of the world’s most-trusted news organizations. Almar has an extensive track record of building successful news media businesses in the digital age. He oversaw the creation of the Barron’s Group, quadrupling the group’s digital audience at Barron’s and MarketWatch, and led the highly successful modernization of *The Wall Street Journal’s* website during the global financial crisis, setting the stage for the Journal’s first million digital subscriptions. Almar also led the development of *The Wall Street Journal* in Japan, Korea and China. Almar has worked on three continents and has been stationed as a journalist in Brussels, London, Stockholm, New York and Hong Kong. Among a wide range of topics, he has reported on Central and Eastern Europe, technology and the rise of mobile phones, the Nordics and the Baltics as well as numerous mega-mergers. In addition to being a reporter, he has served as a bureau chief in New York, the managing editor of the Wall Street Journal online, and the editor-in-chief of *The Wall Street Journal* and Dow Jones in Asia-Pacific before being appointed the Journal’s Executive Editor. Almar regularly discusses issues including the business of media, press freedom, global affairs and journalism in the era of generative AI. He started as a news assistant in Washington, D.C. He is a native of the Netherlands and lives in New York City. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-758-scaled-e1764093508212.jpg) **Ambassador Kathleen Stephens** Ambassador (ret) Kathleen Stephens served as a career diplomat in the United States Foreign Service, 1978-2015. She was the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea (2008-2011), the first woman and first Korean speaker to serve in that position. Other overseas assignments include postings to Trinidad and Tobago (1978-1980), China (1980-1982), Korea (1983-1989), former Yugoslavia (1990-1992), Portugal (1998-2001), Northern Ireland – where she was U.S.Consul General in Belfast (1995-1998) during the negotiations culminating in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement – and India, where she was U.S. Chargé d’ Affaires (2014-2015). Amb. Stephens served in Washington at the Department of State and the White House, including as acting Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs (2012), Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs (2005-2007), Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs (2003-2005), and National Security Council Director for European Affairs (1993-1995).  Earlier in her career she was Director of the State Department’s Office of Ecoology and Terrestrial Conservation, and senior desk officer for the United Kingdom. Amb. Stephens was President and CEO of the Korea Economic Institute of America from 2018 to 2023, and William J. Perry Fellow for Korea at Stanford University from 2015 to 2018. Earlier, she was Endowed Chair Professor for Language and Diplomacy at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul, and Senior State Department Fellow at Georgetown University’s Institute for the Study of Diplomacy. She currently chairs the Board of The Korea Society and Pacific Century Institute, and is Vice-chair of the Board of Trustees of The Asia Foundation. She is a senior advisor at McLarty Associates, and a member of the American Academy of Diplomacy and the Council on Foreign Relations. Amb. Stephens is the recipient of numerous awards, and a regular columnist, lecturer and commentator on topics including U.S. foreign policy, Korea’s modern transformation, and U.S.-Korea relations.  She studied at Prescott College, the University of Hong Kong, Oxford University, and Harvard’s Kennedy School. She was a Peace Corps volunteer in Korea from 1975-1977. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-253-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-90-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-511-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-519-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-572-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-579-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-624-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-781-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-800-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-42-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-367-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-192-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-491-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-831-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-359-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-758-scaled-e1764093508212.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-794-scaled-e1764093846419.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-373-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-388-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-403-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-408-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-409-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-414-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-609-scaled.jpg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/paolaphoto_WAS-Met-Gala-2025_-847-scaled.jpg) **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT: Book Talk: Fallout by Joel S. Wit](https://ncafp.org/resources/book-talk-fallout-joel-wit/) **Published:** October 15, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Book Talk: Fallout: The Inside Story of America’s Failure to Disarm North Korea** *With Joel S. Wit* *November 6, 2025* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *Co-sponsored with the [Leitner Center for International Law and Justice at Fordham Law School](https://leitnercenter.org/)* Join us on Thursday, November 6 for a conversation between Joel S. Wit, Distinguished Fellow in Asian and Security Studies at the Stimson Center, and Susan A. Thornton, NCAFP Asia Program Director. In his newly published book, *Fallout: The Inside Story of America’s Failure to Disarm North Korea*, Wit examines the last few decades of U.S. engagement with North Korea across six presidencies, giving readers an inside look into nuclear negotiations and backchannel diplomatic maneuvers. In this moderated discussion, Wit will reveal the missed opportunities, misunderstandings, and internal political turmoil that led North Korea to develop a nuclear arsenal, and what this means for the future of global security. The event is co-sponsored with the [Leitner Center for International Law and Justice at Fordham Law School](https://leitnercenter.org/). Fordham Law School 150 W 62nd St New York, NY 10023 6:00-7:00 pm Check-in at 5:45pm *Reception to follow* Books will not be available for purchase at the event but may be purchased [here](https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300278774/fallout/). Read the review from Kirkus Reviews [here](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/joel-s-wit/fallout-5/): On American “miscalculations, misunderstandings, and myths.” Wit, a fellow in Asian Security Studies at the Henry L. Stimson Center, draws on more than 300 interviews—and his own astute observations as a participant in decades of roller-coaster nuclear weapons negotiations—for his fast-paced and eye-opening account of North Korean–American nuclear weapons diplomacy. The author reveals a fascinating terrain of shifting priorities and players that are shaping an increasingly dangerous world. He brings considerable clarity and pithy writing to bear on a confusing muddle of ambivalent diplomacy, political infighting, and changes in direction that have marked U.S. attempts to thwart North Korea’s efforts to join the ranks of nuclear powers. Process, politics, and personalities are foregrounded as the baton passes from president to president over six administrations, from Jimmy Carter to Donald Trump. The author’s adroit descriptions capture the flavor and pace of events. Throughout, the story circles back to the chilling consequences if diplomacy fails and the world tips into nuclear conflict—a possibility that motivates participants on all sides to continue the dialogue, even when it proceeds by fits and starts or stalls entirely. He writes, “Today, North Korea can inflict devastation on major American cities, killing hundreds of thousands and possibly millions of people in thirty minutes, a far cry from 1994 when it didn’t even have a single nuclear weapon.” Ultimately, Wit says, “two presidents, Barack Obama and Donald Trump, bear special responsibility since the greatest threat emerged during their time in office.” North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un is presented here in a nuanced portrait as the leader of a small country “engaged in provocative behavior intended to convince Washington to take it seriously.” This intriguing survey of a critical global struggle is readable and sobering. Those wishing to dive deeper will find ample footnotes pointing to primary sources. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2025 --- ### [Happy Lunar New Year!](https://ncafp.org/resources/happy-lunar-new-year/) **Published:** January 29, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Happy Lunar New Year** *From all of us at the NCAFP, we wish you a healthy, happy, and prosperous Year of the Snake!* Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Click [here](https://ncafp.org/media-reports-directory/?resources_content_type=upcoming-events&actualPage=1) to see what we have planned for this year! **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT: Book Talk: The Dragon Roars Back by Dr. Suisheng Zhao](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-the-dragon-roars-back/) **Published:** December 23, 2024 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Book Talk: The Dragon Roars Back: Transformational Leaders and Dynamics of Chinese Foreign Policy**  *With Dr. Suisheng Zhao* *January 21, 2025* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *Co-hosted with the [Leitner Center for International Law and Justice at Fordham Law School](https://leitnercenter.org/)* This program was the NCAFP’s first in-person event of 2025, a book talk featuring Dr. Suisheng Zhao. Drawing on his recently published book, *The Dragon Roars Back*, Professor Zhao explored shifts in China’s foreign policy since 1949, highlighting how Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping, and Xi Jinping reshaped it to align with their visions. He focused on Xi’s power consolidation and its impact on foreign policy. The discussion was moderated by Ms. Susan A. Thornton, NCAFP’s Director of Asia-Pacific Security Program. The event was an NCAFP *George D. Schwab Policy Briefing* and co-hosted with the [Leitner Center for International Law and Justice at Fordham Law School](https://leitnercenter.org/). Fordham Law School, 150 W 62nd St New York, NY 10023 5:30 – 6:30 pm ET *\*This program was free to all students and young professionals!* [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flyer_DragonRoarsBack-425x550.png)](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flyer_DragonRoarsBack-1.jpg) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: 2025 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Discussions](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-discussions/) **Published:** May 12, 2025 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## 2025 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Discussions: Shaping a Brighter Future and Strengthening Transatlantic Ties   The 2025 NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders (NI EL) gathered in New York City for three days of insightful discussions, impactful talks, and unique opportunities for cultural exchange, April 30-May 2. With a mission to strengthen transatlantic cooperation and help shape a brighter future for Northern Ireland, this year’s conference brought together high-level guest speakers, emerging leaders, mentors, and experts from a variety of fields. The event marked the conclusion of the second NI EL cohort, where emerging leaders presented their final policy proposals, which are now available in the full report. [*Read the 2025 report* ](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) #### Day One – Promoting Rights, Health, and Equality in Northern Ireland and Beyond The conference began with remarks from **Consul General of Ireland in NY, Helena Nolan**, and **Ambassador Susan Elliott (CEO and President of NCAFP)**, who set the stage for a day filled with dynamic discussions on some of the region’s most pressing issues. **Carla Hannan** and **Stephen McCrystall** highlighted the need for a more effective approach to addressing gender-based violence. **Austin Orr** highlighted the major challenges in Northern Ireland’s healthcare system for its aging population and advocated for the establishment of community health hubs. The conversation shifted to human rights and law in Northern Ireland. **Ciara Campbell** spoke on the hurdles to achieving transitional justice and accountability, while **Rachel Kenny-Cardoso** emphasized the importance of inclusive communities supporting migrant women and marginalized groups. **Justin Kouame** concluded the session by calling for a Single Equality Act to address systemic discrimination in Northern Ireland. The day also featured remarks by **Irish Ambassador to the United States** **Geraldine Byrne Nason**, who discussed the evolving U.S.-Ireland relationship and the importance of communication and collaboration on trade and historical ties. Former Special Envoy for Northern Ireland **Joe Kennedy III** reflected on Northern Ireland’s progress since the Good Friday Agreement and offered a hopeful outlook for the future. #### Day Two – Advancing Northern Ireland’s Future and Strengthening Transatlantic Relations through Education, Reform, and People-to-People Ties Day two opened with **Program Director Emma DeSouza** and **Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Fleur Anderson**, who underscored the importance of cooperation and investment in peace-building for long-term growth. Emerging leader **Matthew O’Neill** shared insights into how integrated education can promote unity, while **Anne Devlin** stressed the importance of reforming the education system to ensure equal opportunities for all. **Aoife Clements** addressed the protection of women in politics, focusing on online threats and gender-based violence, and **Jack Armstrong** called for essential reforms in the Northern Ireland Assembly to prevent political collapse. The afternoon focused on community-led initiatives for youth development and the arts. **Doire Finn** discussed integrating the arts into Northern Ireland’s culture, while **Conor Forker** highlighted the challenges facing rural youth work. Special guest **Elaine Marshall, Secretary of State for North Carolina**, spoke about the importance of business collaboration and educational exchange between North Carolina and Northern Ireland. Later, **David Blevins, Senior Ireland Correspondent for Sky News,** discussed the impact of storytelling in inspiring hope and navigating the rapidly evolving media landscape. #### Cultural and Diplomatic Engagements Beyond these discussions, the ELs also had the opportunity to explore NYC’s vibrant cultural scene. They visited the **Irish Arts Center** for the opening night of a play, where they met with **Executive Director Aidan Connolly**, a program mentor, to discuss how the arts can foster community-building. Additionally, the group attended the **Ireland Funds** Gala, further strengthening their connections with global partners and supporters committed to the future of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The trip culminated with a visit to the **Irish Mission to the UN**, where the Emerging Leaders participated in a discussion and toured the UN Headquarters. The final event was a meeting at the **British Consulate General in NYC**, where they spoke with consulate representatives about the operations of the UK consulate and explored how they can apply their learnings to create positive change back home in Northern Ireland. #### Looking Ahead: Deepening Transatlantic Ties Through Leadership and Mentorship The Emerging Leaders Discussions in NYC were a powerful testament to the value of transatlantic collaboration and mentorship in shaping the next generation of changemakers. Over three impactful days, Northern Ireland’s future leaders not only engaged with high-level policymakers and diplomats but also built meaningful relationships with mentors and peers across sectors and borders. These connections, rooted in shared values and a commitment to peace and progress, will continue to foster dialogue and innovation long after the conference ends. As the Emerging Leaders return home, they carry with them not only new insights into governance, education, and international relations but also lasting bonds that strengthen the bridge between Northern Ireland and the United States. [*Read more about the NI EL Program* ](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) ### VIEW HIGHLIGHTS BELOW ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2425-3.jpeg) Former Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III meets with NI ELs ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-19.png) Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason speaks with NI EL Ciara Campell ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2002.jpeg) NI ELs with Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for NI Fleur Anderson ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2432.jpeg) NI ELs with Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason and Former Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2018.jpeg) NI ELs and friends of NCAFP with Elaine Marshall Secretary of State for North Carolina ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2661.JPG) EL Diore Finn and her mentor Aidan Connolly Executive Director of the Irish Arts Center ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2253.jpeg) NI EL Matthew ONeill presents his policy paper ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/niel-31.jpg) NI EL Austin Orr discusses his policy paper with Margaret Crotty Chair of Northwell Health ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2354.jpeg) David Blevins of Sky News speaks with NI EL Director Emma DeSouza ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_3061.JPG) NI EL Carla Hannan presents her policy paper ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-24.png) NI ELs with Amb Geraldine Byrne Nason and Joe Kennedy III ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-23.png) NI ELs at the Irish Mission to the UN ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_2275-1.jpeg) Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for NI Fleur Anderson speaks with NI EL Director Emma DeSouza ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Next-Generation-Diplomacy-Redefining-Transatlantic-Priorities-25.png) NI ELs at the British Consulate in NY **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Northeast Asia Security Track II Conference](https://ncafp.org/resources/2025-northeast-asia-security-track-ii/) **Published:** May 12, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **NCAFP Hosts Annual Northeast Asia Security Track II Dialogue** *May 12, 2025* From May 5 through May 7, 2025, the NCAFP convened policy experts and former officials from the U.S., China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea in New York City for its annual Northeast Asia Security Track II Conference. On May 5, participants from the U.S. and China engaged in a strategic bilateral dialogue. These distinguished experts assessed the state of the bilateral relationship, discussed domestic and international political dynamics impacting the relationship, reflected on how to best manage regional and transnational security threats and challenges, and deliberated ways to stabilize tensions and prevent miscommunication. On May 6, experts from the U.S., China, Japan, and South Korea took on the North Korean issue, working together to come up with innovative and cooperative solutions to a longstanding issue. Participants from all four sides laid out their perceptions of the current situation in the Korean Peninsula and shared potential pathways to engagement with North Korea and how to prevent further nuclear proliferation in the whole region. As a group, these scholars laid out their perspectives of the changing global order, the role that international institutions play, and how countries can step up to guide collective action around common interests to avoid conflict. The conference concluded with a trilateral dialogue between the U.S., Japan, and the Republic of Korea. The three sides discussed the changes to the relationship dynamics under a second Trump administration and how to best engage with changing governments in all three countries. Participants further deliberated alliance and security cooperation, national priorities, and how to build an effective and robust deterrent system in the region. Please stay tuned for a written report of the conference that will include key takeaways and policy recommendations. To learn more about our Track II work, [click here](https://ncafp.org/track-i-%c2%bd-track-ii-diplomacy/). **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2025 --- ### [WATCH: Navigating Middle East Relations: Tensions, Conflicts, and Alliances](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-navigating-middle-east-relations-tensions-conflicts-and-alliances/) **Published:** September 3, 2025 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** *With Jeffrey Feltman September 17, 2025 Moderated by Susan Elliott* U.S. policy in the Middle East has consistently been a defining challenge for every presidential administration. Experts and analysts agree that over the last five years, a significant paradigm shift has dramatically altered the region’s geopolitics. This shift encompasses signs of stability, such as the Abraham Accords and the 2023 Iran-Saudi rapprochement, alongside more recent conflicts like the Hamas-led October 7th attack on Israel and the ensuing war in Gaza. Other factors include the power vacuums left in Syria and Lebanon, the Twelve-Day War between Iran and Israel, and Israel’s targeted assassination of Yemen’s Houthi-backed Prime Minister. These developments underscore the political volatility, civilian harm, and pivotal turning points that are shaping the region. All of this occurs amid a worsening humanitarian crisis, which remains a central focus of international debate and a critical question about U.S. leadership in the Middle East. As alliances realign and conflicts intensify, the stakes for U.S. policy remain high. How will the current administration navigate the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas and address Iran’s regional influence, amid mounting national security concerns? How might multilateral institutions more effectively respond to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza? And what role can U.S. allies and partners play in advancing diplomacy and stability in the region? **Ambassador (ret.)Jeffrey Feltman** joined **Ambassador (ret.) Susan Elliott**, President and CEO of the NCAFP, in conversation about U.S. policy priorities amid the region’s evolving dynamics. This program was a *George D. Schwab Policy Briefing*. [Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiKtdbKQLkU) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Navigating-Middle-East-Sept-17.jpg) Play ## Default Video Modal Title × Your browser does not support the video tag. Close Popup ##### **Featured Speakers** **Ambassador (ret.) Jeffrey Feltman** joined the Brookings Institution’s Foreign Policy Program in June 2018 as the John C. Whitehead Visiting Fellow in International Diplomacy. He is also a senior fellow at the United Nations Foundation. He serves on the governing boards of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems and the American Academy of Diplomacy, and he is on the advisory boards of Amsterdam-based Dialogue Advisory Group and Fundación Acordemos. Ambassador Feltman was the first U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, from April 2021 until January 2022. From 2012 until 2018, Ambassador Feltman was U.N. Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs. Previously, he was a U.S. Foreign Service Officer. From 2009 until 2012, Ambassador Feltman was the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs. Prior to his 2004-2008 tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, he served in Erbil, Baghdad, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Tunis, Amman, Budapest, and Port-au-Prince. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** is an accomplished diplomat with an earned doctorate from Indiana University. During her 27-year diplomatic career, Ambassador Elliott held a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. She became President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy in August 2018. From 2015 to 2017, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her Ambassadorial appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Her previous overseas assignments also include Minister Counselor for Political Affairs in Moscow, Russia; Principal Officer in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Deputy Economic Counselor and Visa Section Chief in Athens, Greece. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2025 --- ### [APPLY: 2025 Korean Peninsula Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-now-2025-korean-peninsula-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** June 2, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## Applications Open for the 2025 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program **Application Submission Period:** Monday, June 2, 2025 – Monday, June 23, 2025 **Notification of Acceptance:** End of July 2025 **Virtual Roundtables:** August through December 2025 **In-person Conference:** Early 2026 **Completion of Program:** April 30, 2026 [Click Here to Apply](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9WeCYytpRA6lzrlf8SMFyRqWlR8nTLdjz_-LwXUaHWdeweQ/viewform?usp=header) [Click here to view full program description](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2025-KP-Emerging-Leaders-Program-Description.pdf) The [National Committee on American Foreign Policy](http://ncafp.org/)’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to join an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on security issues related to the Korean Peninsula. The project will showcase the new ideas and work of selected participants surrounding the following themes: the changing balance of power in the region, the future of multilateral architecture, the nexus of economic and security policies, how to address North Korea’s nuclear challenge, and transnational issues. The program is designed to help emerging academics translate their research ideas into policy recommendations, and to develop public communications skills. In addition to peer workshops and skills training, each participant will be matched with a mentor from the NCAFP’s network of senior-level former policymakers to further inform the development of the final products—a short policy paper and podcast presentation. ### **What You’ll Gain** - **One-on-one mentorship** with a senior-level policy expert - **Advanced training** in policy writing and public communication - **Network** of rising experts on the Korean Peninsula - In-person conference and workshops in **New York City** - Publication in a professionally **edited policy volume** - Publication of a **podcast episode** with Director Susan Thornton ### **Qualifications and Expectations** Preferred applicants are Ph.D. candidates, junior researchers, and project management professionals with less than 10 years of experience on security issues related to the Korean Peninsula, who are well poised to influence the policy planning process in the future. Participants must commit to the following: - Attending all virtual meetings and workshops (7 virtual roundtables, 2 mentor sessions) - Traveling to NYC for a 2-day in-person conference in early 2026\* - Completing a publishable policy paper aligned with their selected topic - Recording a podcast episode on the policy paper’s topic **\*Please note that depending on the participant’s nationality, the participant may need to apply for a visa to visit the U.S. and attend the in-person part of the program. The NCAFP cannot guarantee the participant’s obtainment of a visa.** ### **How to Apply** Submit the application form using the link provided with all the following materials: - Resume/CV - One-page letter of interest, explaining your goals for the program and relevance of your background - Short bio, no more than 300 words - A well-developed one-page prospectus of the research topic related to security issues in the Indo-Pacific on which the participant will develop policy recommendations. Preference will be given to policy-relevant topics related to the Korean Peninsula and/or Korea’s role in the regional security architecture. **\*\*\*Incomplete applications will not be reviewed\*\*\*** *Optional additional materials include:* - A letter of recommendation from a peer or professional colleague - A writing sample, no more than 5 pages **Submit your application between Monday, June 2, 2025 and Monday, June 23, 2025.** [Click Here to Apply](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9WeCYytpRA6lzrlf8SMFyRqWlR8nTLdjz_-LwXUaHWdeweQ/viewform?usp=header) [Click here to view full program description](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2025-KP-Emerging-Leaders-Program-Description.pdf) [Click here to learn more about previous cohorts](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) Questions or problems submitting? Contact Program Manager Nia Williams at nia.williams@ncafp.org. **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: "Dictating the Agenda" with Alexander Cooley](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-dictating-the-agenda-with-alexander-cooley/) **Published:** May 27, 2025 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **“Dictating the Agenda: The Authoritarian Resurgence in World Politics” with Alexander Cooley** *With Alexander Cooley Thursday, June 12, 2025 Moderated by Jacqueline Adams* On June 12, 2025, the NCAFP hosted Columbia University Professor **Alexander Cooley** to discuss his latest  book “[Dictating the Agenda: The Authoritarian Resurgence in World Politics.](https://global.oup.com/academic/product/dictating-the-agenda-9780197776360?cc=us&lang=en&)” Professor Cooley was in conversation with **Jaqueline Adams**, NCAFP Trustee, and former CBS News Correspondent.  In their conversation, they explored the concept that authoritarian governments and the consistent rise of illiberal populism have repurposed transnational institutions and the mechanisms that once expanded liberalism and free market globalization. Cooley argued that soft-power arenas, such as academia, sports, and consumer activism, have been co-opted by foreign and domestic populist trends, a move he labeled *authoritarian snapback*.  Within this *snapback* democracy erodes, individual liberties diminish, and universal human rights are disregarded. The discussion also noted other modes, such as “greenwashing” and “gender washing,” all helping to normalize autocratic tendencies under the guise of climate diplomacy and gender parity within multilateral institutions.  Q&A followed the moderated discussion. **Tom Hexner**, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, provided the welcoming remarks for the evening. During the concluding reception, audience members were invited to purchase a copy of *Dictating the Agenda* and have it signed. This program was a *George D. Schwab Policy Briefing*. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/AdamsCooley.jpg) Alexander Cooley and Jaqueline Adams in a moderated conversation ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/HexnerAdamsCooley.jpg) Tom Hexner Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the NCAFP introducing the evening program ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Audience.jpg) Audience QA session after the moderated conversation ##### Featured Speakers **Alexander Cooley** is the Claire Tow Professor of Political Science and Vice Provost for Academic Centers and Libraries at Barnard College, Columbia University, and an Academy Adjunct Faculty member at Chatham House. From 2015 to 2021 he served as the 15th Director of Columbia University’s Harriman Institute for the Study of Russia, Eurasia, and Eastern Europe. Professor Cooley’s research examines how external actors—including emerging powers, international organizations, multinational companies, NGOs, and Western enablers of grand corruption—have influenced the development, governance and sovereignty of the former Soviet states, with a focus on Central Asia and the Caucasus. Cooley is the author and/or editor of eight academic books including, [Dictators without Borders: Power and Money in Central Asia ](https://www.alexanderacooley.com/books/dictators-without-borders)(Yale University Press 2017), co-authored with John Heathershaw, and more recently, [Exit from Hegemony: the Unravelling of the American Global Order](https://www.alexanderacooley.com/books/exiting-from-hegemony) (Oxford University Press, 2020), co-authored with Daniel Nexon. In addition to his academic research, Professor Cooley serves on several international advisory boards engaged with the region and has testified for the United States Congress and Helsinki Commission. Cooley’s opinion pieces have appeared in New York Times, Foreign Policy and Foreign Affairs. **[Jaqueline Adams ](https://ncafp.org/team/jacqueline-adams/)**is a journalist, author, consultant and convener. After more than two decades as an Emmy Award-winning CBS News correspondent, she launched her boutique consulting firm, J Adams: Strategic Communications, LLC., and works with both corporate and non-profit clients. At CBS News, Ms. Adams spent five years as a White House correspondent during the Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush administrations.  In the 1990s, she was a prolific contributor to the *CBS Evening News with Dan Rather* and *CBS News Sunday Morning.* She serves on the boards of the Harvard Business School Club of New York and the NCAFP.  Ms. Adams is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the International Advisory Committee of the United States Institute of Peace, and the Advisory Council of the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream. Ms. Adams is also the co-founder of  the training program for rising star managers of color, [The Diverse Future.](https://www.diversefuture.org/about/)  She also serves as a senior advisor to the B-2-B firm, [NicklPass,](https://www.nicklpass.com/) which provides easy access to subscriptions via one login for teams. In 2020, she co-authored, “[A Blessing: Women of Color Teaming Up to Lead, Empower and Thrive.](https://leadempowerthrive.com/)” **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: 2025/26 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-program/) **Published:** September 29, 2025 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## **NCAFP Launches Third Cohort with Belfast Conference** *September 2025* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) officially launched the third cohort of the [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) (NI EL) at a conference in Belfast. Over the next nine months, this cohort will develop innovative policy proposals addressing regional and global challenges, from boosting tourism and transatlantic trade to advancing climate-smart agriculture, green energy, and climate justice. Emerging Leaders will also focus on pressing social issues such as reimagining social housing, preventing youth paramilitarism, strengthening grassroots storytelling, and reversing brain drain, while preparing for an AI-driven future. ### **Transatlantic Collaboration and Mentorship** The conference opened on September 19 with a welcome reception hosted by Lawrence Simms, Joint Secretary, and Róisín Hinds, Deputy Joint Secretary, at the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs. The event brought together supporters of, and representatives from, NCAFP’s NI EL cohorts [one](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2), [two](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafps-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=3), and [three](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=1). The induction day took place on September 20 and included discussions with key representatives from the Northern Ireland Executive and the U.S. Consulate, such as Lynsey Moore, Director of Europe Strategy and International Relations at The Executive Office, and Dori Winter, Political-Economic Chief at the U.S. Consulate General Belfast. Their insights highlighted practical pathways for transatlantic collaboration across multiple sectors. As part of the program, each Emerging Leader is paired with a mentor whose expertise aligns with their policy focus or professional background. On induction day, participants virtually met their mentors to begin developing their projects, receiving personalized guidance to turn their ideas into actionable policies that advance peace, prosperity, and transatlantic ties. The cohort’s mentors include a distinguished group of scholars, diplomats, and leaders such as [**Nancy Soderberg**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nancy_Soderberg), American diplomat and foreign policy strategist; [**Charley Landow**](https://www.belfercenter.org/person/charles-landow), Senior Advisor at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs; [**Jennifer Frankola Crawford**](https://www.iabany.org/jennifer-frankola), Arbitrator and Attorney; [**Barbara Stephenson**](https://global.unc.edu/about/our-team/barbara-stephenson/), Vice Provost for Global Affairs at UNC Chapel Hill; [**Helena Kane Finn**](https://www.humanrightscolumbia.org/profile/visiting-scholars/helena-kane-finn), former U.S. diplomat; [**Martin Flaherty**](https://www.fordham.edu/school-of-law/faculty/directory/full-time/m-s-flaherty/), Princeton University; [**John Connorton**](https://ncafp.org/team/john-v-connorton-jr-esq/), NCAFP Trustee; [**Joseph Donaldson**](https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-human-sciences/people/joseph-donaldson/), North Carolina State University; [**Andrea Haughian**](https://www.investni.com/international-business/our-international-teams), New York Invest Northern Ireland; [**Christine Ryan**](https://lawrightsreligion.org/about-us#:~:text=Christine%20A.,in%20the%20U.S.%20and%20abroad.), human rights lawyer and scholar; [**Alexander Robinson**](https://ncafp.org/team/alexander-robinson/), Tenor Capital Management/NCAFP Trustee; [**Angela Barranco**](https://www.theclimategroup.org/angela-barranco), North America Climate Group; and [**Margaret Crotty**](https://www.northwell.edu/news/the-latest/margaret-m-crotty-elected-chair-of-northwell-health-board-of-trustees), Northwell Health. ### **Turning Ideas into Action** The [2024 ](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2)Emerging Leaders cohort welcomed the new group with an alumni panel discussion that connected different cohorts of NI EL. Members of the 2024 cohort shared their experiences and emphasized the program’s focus on turning ideas into action. The third (2025/2026) cohort’s recommendations will be presented at a spring 2026 conference in New York City and subsequently published, showcasing strategies for sustainable progress in Northern Ireland and beyond. *We extend our deepest thanks to the Government of Ireland’s Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, the Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund, the Irish American Partnership, and our entire community of donors and supporters who make this work possible.* [Meet the 2025/26 Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=1) [Learn more about the NI EL Program](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/f531ee52-305b-4f8c-ba10-9d3c390dafa7-1.JPG) 202526 Emerging Leaders Induction at Ulster University with Emma DeSouza Shaina Katz ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/8.jpg) 2024 Emerging Leaders Alumni Panel on Induction Day ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/7.jpg) Lawrence Simms Joint Secretary at Irelands Department of Foreign Affairs delivers welcome remarks to the three NI EL cohorts ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/9.jpg) Program Director Emma DeSouza moderates a panel with Lynsey Moore TEO and Dori Winter US Consulate Belfast ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Announcing-NCAFPs-202526-Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-22.jpg) NCAFP President CEO delivers virtual welcome to NI ELs third cohort ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/11.jpg) Supporters and representatives from NI EL cohorts 13 at the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs welcome reception **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [The NCAFP Honors and Remembers Dr. Donald Zagoria](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-ncafp-honors-and-remembers-dr-donald-zagoria/) **Published:** September 25, 2025 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** *Donald S. Zagoria August 24, 1928 – September 16, 2025* **Dr. Donald Zagoria** was a pioneer in his field and the founder of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the NCAFP.  He leaves a legacy of convening U.S.-China and cross-Taiwan Strait dialogues. With his foresight, he recognized that fostering Track II dialogues would yield the most effective policy recommendations for achieving peaceful resolutions. However, what also transpired among the participants was the formation of lasting friendships that endured through the decades. Dr. Zagoria’s expertise in the subject matter was equaled by his kindness, not only did have an ability to facilitate, but was a generous colleague and a mentor to his staff. The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is forever grateful for his contribution and will always be inspired by his life and work.  The obituary below was written by Adam Zagoria, his son, and published by Dignity Memorial. Donald S. Zagoria, historian, noted foreign policy expert, and professor of political science at Hunter College and Columbia University, passed away peacefully in his sleep in his Crugers, N.Y. home on September 16, 2025. Dr. Zagoria recently celebrated his 97th birthday and received his annual shoutout from Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay during the Yankees-Red Sox game on Aug. 24. On the day he passed, the Yankees nearly blew a 10-1 lead against the Minnesota Twins, only to hold on for a 10-9 victory. Dr. Zagoria surely would have been vexed at the path to victory but would have joked about it with a twinkle in his brown eyes. A devoted husband (to his late wife Janet), father (to his son Adam) and grandfather (to Grace and James Zagoria), Dr. Zagoria was known for his charismatic and warm personality, big smile and even bigger heart. He related genuinely and equally to everyone from iconic colleagues like Madeleine Albright, Zbigniew Brzezinski and Henry Kissinger, to his many friends and family members, to people he just met. “\[Dr. Zagoria\] made such a significant impact on the work of the National Committee \[on American Foreign Policy\],” said Susan Elliott, President of the National Committee, where he served as Senior Vice President and Project Director for the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) “Every time we talked to people in Asia, they always asked about him and wanted us to send him their regards. He was a legend.” During a career spanning some 60 years, Dr. Zagoria served as a foreign policy consultant to the administration of President Jimmy Carter, wrote or edited four books and recorded more than 1,500 bylines in publications such as Foreign Affairs, Public Affairs and Asian Survey. In 1962, Dr. Zagoria published his first book entitled “The Sino-Soviet Conflict, 1956-1961.” The book, still a seminal work in the field, was accepted as a dissertation, enabling him to receive his PhD from Columbia in 1963. He was a frequent guest for television interviews in the 1970s, ’80s and ‘90s on programs such as William F. Buckley’s “Firing Line” and “The MacNeil/Lehrer News Report.” In the classroom, Dr. Zagoria made an enduring impact on his students. One said he was “intelligent, funny and knows how to put pseudo intellectuals into their place!“ He was a patient instructor, but didn’t suffer fools gladly. The son of Max Zagoria and Bessie Sacks Zagoria and the younger brother of Marvin Zagoria, Dr. Zagoria grew up in Somerville, N.J. where his father worked as a vegetable peddler after emigrating with his brothers from the small town of Preili, Latvia. “Fortunately, my grandfather and grandmother had the good sense in the early part of the 20th century to flee Russia with all of their seven children (my father had six brothers) and to come to America. By doing this, they saved the family from Stalin and Hitler, two of the biggest mass murderers in history,” Dr. Zagoria wrote. “My mother’s family, the Sacks’, also came from Imperial Russia around the turn of the century of similar reasons — to escape religious persecution and discrimination \[against Jews\].” His father, Max, and older brother, Nathan, stowed away on a Russian cargo ship with only a crust of bread between them for two weeks on the Atlantic Ocean and they arrived in the United States penniless. They eventually joined other members of the family and went into business selling fruits and vegetables out of a truck wholesale in Somerville, providing for their families during the worst days of the Great Depression and sending their children to college. In a true manifestation of the American Dream, Dr. Zagoria went in a more scholarly direction, but was a practicing vegetarian for most of his life. He also did not drink or smoke much at all, and was blessed with good genes. Until his last days, he loved to eat spicy Chinese and Indian food, pizza with broccoli, chocolate- covered almonds, cashew nuts and ice cream bars. An avid athlete early on, Dr. Zagoria starred in basketball at Somerville High School and was featured in the school paper the Valkyrie News, which pointed out that he led the varsity in scoring as a 16-year-old senior with 11 points per game. His two-handed set shot remained deadly in later life, and he would show it off against his son Adam and his friends in the driveway in Crugers. A fan of the Yankees along with his older brother, Dr. Zagoria saw Lou Gehrig and Joe DiMaggio play in person at Yankee Stadium. In 1995, he attended an American League Wild Card game with Adam and some of Adam’s Ultimate Frisbee friends, enjoying the raucous atmosphere in the bleachers as the Yankees won. He later attended games with his son and grandchildren at Yankee Stadium. Dr. Zagoria earned a B.A. from Rutgers, where he originally planned to study journalism before becoming intrigued by the Cold War and the rising importance of China. After graduating in 1948, he went to Washington, D.C. to work for the Foreign Broadcast Information Service as an analyst of Russian and Chinese media. It was out of this work that “The Sino-Soviet Conflict” was born. He decided to study Soviet foreign policy with a focus on Asia. He moved from FBIS to the Rand Corporation, and then to RICA, the Research Institute for Communist Affairs, where he first worked with Brezinski. In the 1950s, Dr. Zagoria was visiting his cousin Sam Zagoria in U.S. Sen. Clifford Case’s office in Washington, D.C. when he spotted a young woman who worked in the office. “Who is that?” he asked his cousin. Dr. Zagoria and Janet Dorsch were married in 1961 in a partnership that lasted 56 years until Janet’s death in 2017. “She was a rare combination of beauty, brains and grace,” Dr. Zagoria said. During the 1960s, the couple lived in Malibu, Calif. and Dr. Zagoria drove a convertible Jaguar for a time when he worked at Rand. In New York, they had their only child, Adam, in 1968, with Janet telling The New York Times for an interview about women who become mothers later in life that he was a “blessing.” That same year, Dr. Zagoria moved from Columbia, where he had been teaching, to Hunter College and the graduate center of CUNY where he continued to teach until he retired in 1997. In 1969, the couple bought a 200-year-old farmhouse in Crugers that required a lot of fixing up, with Janet often working on the house with Adam in a bassinet on the porch. Dr. Zagoria’s parents weren’t thrilled by those developments. The couple enjoyed discussing politics, international affairs and movies and their living room was often overflowing with books and policy papers. Colleagues and friends from all over the world cycled through the home, as did an array of black cats with names like Abdou, Okbar and Macavity, and dogs named Jazzy and Daphne. They traveled to North Korea, Siberia and Mongolia — some of the “garden spots of the world,” Janet would crack — as well as Paris, London and St. Martin, where they vacationed every winter. Avid skiers and tennis players, the couple traveled with Adam to ski in Canada, Vermont and California.  In 1979, Dr. Zagoria won the singles and doubles titles in the local Town of Cortlandt tennis tournament, a source of immense pride for his son. “He was a natural left-hander but played tennis right-handed, which made his success all the more impressive,” Adam said. Dr. Zagoria is survived by his son Adam, a sports journalist and filmmaker; his daughter-in-law Jennifer Barton, a public relations executive; his two grandchildren, Grace and James Zagoria; and his two nieces, Kim and Lee Taylor of California. Grace is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics at Davidson College and has studied at la Universidad de Buenos Aires, la Universidad de Alcalá, and Technische Universität Berlin. Her academic interests include international political economy, European–Latin American relations, and contemporary regional defense. “He had so much talent and was brilliant and had an incredibly big heart,” Kim Taylor said of her uncle. “He loved so hard. You don’t often get all that in one person. He cared deeply about his family but was also so talented in other areas. He was a big personality so it leaves a big hole.” **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2025 --- ### [Announcing NCAFP’s 2025-26 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-ncafps-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** September 19, 2025 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** *September 2025* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) is proud to launch the third cohort of the[ Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/), a mentorship initiative that empowers community leaders to drive change and strengthen transatlantic ties. Building on the success of the first two years, the program has grown from [10 ](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2)participants to 13, each addressing some of the most pressing issues facing Northern Ireland and the wider world. Over the next nine months, this cohort will take on challenges ranging from boosting Northern Ireland’s tourism economy and transatlantic trade to advancing climate-smart agriculture, green energy, and climate justice. They will close skills gaps, and prepare young people for an AI-driven future. Other projects will reimagine social housing, prevent youth paramilitarism, strengthen grassroots democracy, and find ways to reverse brain drain. Guided by NCAFP’s network of mentors (including former government officials, leading scholars, and policy experts), these leaders will transform their ideas into actionable policy recommendations. The program will conclude in spring 2026 with a conference in New York City, where participants will present and publish their policy papers and recommendations to U.S. policymakers, diplomats, and transatlantic partners. *We extend our deepest thanks to the Government of Ireland’s Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, the Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund, the Irish American Partnership, and our entire community of donors and supporters who make this work possible.* ## **MEET THE 2025/26 EMERGING LEADERS** **Declan Barry** *Founder and Managing Director, ExportExplore* Declan Barry is the founder of ExportExplore, a Belfast-based consultancy supporting inward investment and export development across Europe and the United States. He currently serves as Authorized Trade and Investment Representative for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and has previously represented the U.S. states of Delaware, Virginia, and Arizona, as well as the Swiss Canton of Neuchâtel. A graduate of Ulster University and Boston College, Declan has led initiatives linking small business growth to government policy, with a focus on post-conflict regions. His work with Invest Northern Ireland and Antrim Enterprise Agency reflects his commitment to inclusive economic advancement. He co-founded the Bridges Beyond Boxing charity, using sport and cultural exchange to connect young people from Northern Ireland and the United States. In 2025, Declan became a fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Peace Building. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Declan-Barry-1.jpg) **Euan Carroll** *BioHGen Team Lead, Development Engineer, CATAGEN* Euan Carroll is a development engineer at CATAGEN, a Belfast-based Net Zero technology company, where he leads the development of biohydrogen systems converting sustainable biomass into clean fuel. He holds a first-class honors degree in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering from Trinity College Dublin. Through the UNITECH Program, Euan studied at Chalmers University in Sweden, worked on sustainable development in Denmark, and attended leadership and innovation workshops across Europe. In 2024, he was named one of Northern Ireland’s 30 Under 30 Climate Change-Makers, leading a river pollution project and exploring the potential of agricultural waste for energy production. Beyond engineering, Euan volunteers with DePaul Ireland, mentoring refugees and supporting integration in Belfast. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-73.jpg) **Aaron Callan** *Alderman and Local Councillor, Causeway Coast and Glens* Aaron Callan serves as an alderman on Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, representing the Limavady area since 2014 and contributing to decision-making on planning, education, economic development, and infrastructure. He is also a governor at Limavady Grammar School, a commissioner at Coleraine Harbour, where he chairs the Strategy Working Group, and a parliamentary researcher to Gregory Campbell CBE MP. Aaron’s previous professional experience includes financial crime compliance at Danske Bank and FinTrU, and risk assurance at PwC. He holds an LL.M. in Law and Governance from Queen’s University Belfast, an MA in Peace and Conflict Studies, and a BA in History from Ulster University, and has completed leadership programs including the Washington Ireland Program and the Fellowship for Political and Civic Leaders with the Centre for Democracy and Peace Building. Aaron has appeared on the BBC and UTV and is a fellow of both the RSA and the Institute of Leadership. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-74.jpg) **Shane Donnelly** *Primary School Teacher, St John’s English Primary School* Shane Donnelly is a primary school teacher with a passion for education and sports. He holds a first-class honors BEd in Primary Education with Physical Education from St. Mary’s University College, Belfast, where he is currently pursuing a Master’s in Sport and Physical Education for Young People. Shane has taught at a private school in Madrid and worked with children from marginalized communities in India and Tanzania, observing how education can provide pathways to a better life. An avid sports enthusiast, he plays for and coaches his local GAA club, has organized ‘GAA for All’ camps, and has coached at Oakwood Special School. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-75.jpg) **Elisha Duddy** *Communications Officer, European Commission* Elisha Duddy, from Omagh, Co. Tyrone, is a communications professional specializing in climate policy, EU affairs, and community engagement. She manages communications promoting the circular economy and Green Deal policies at the European Commission Representation in Ireland, including influencer partnerships, high-profile events such as Bloom and the National Plowing Championships, and campaigns for EU funding programs like PEACEPLUS and the Brexit Adjustment Reserve. Previously, Elisha worked with the Irish government on developing Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme, and in Belfast led grassroots integration initiatives through HAPANI for asylum seekers. She is developing Borderline Green, a writing project exploring climate justice and policy fragmentation in Northern Ireland. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Elisha-1.jpeg) **Olivia Hamill** *Professional Development Consultant at QUB* Olivia Hamill is a Professional Development Consultant at Queens University Belfast, supporting academic staff in enhancing teaching practices through personalized mentoring and strategic training programs. Her career includes roles as a Business Studies lecturer and leadership development consultant, where she designed and delivered programs in management, coaching, and innovation. Olivia holds a Senior Fellowship from the Higher Education Academy (2024) and earned a PGCE in Business Studies with distinction from the University of Sunderland. She also completed a Master’s in Business Studies and a Postgraduate Certificate in Digital Media Communication at the University of Ulster, alongside certifications in mentoring, systems thinking, and sustainable education. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-83.png) **Kathlyn (Katy) Rosamund Haskins** *PhD Candidate, Ulster University* Kathlyn Haskins is a PhD candidate at Ulster University with a background in the humanities and social justice. She holds a BA in English and History and an MA in Conflict Transformation and Social Justice. Her work bridges academic research and community engagement, centring community voices in social change. An experienced youth worker, Kathlyn is passionate about creating inclusive spaces for young people to grow and thrive. She lives in County Down, Northern Ireland. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-76.jpg) **Dara Keeve** *Legal and Policy Officer, Committee on the Administration of Justice* Dara Keeve is a Policy and Legal Officer at the Committee on the Administration of Justice (CAJ), Northern Ireland’s leading human rights NGO. Her work focuses on advancing Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act, socio-economic rights, and democratic governance. Dara holds a BA in French and Irish and an LLM in Human Rights Law (with distinction) from Queen’s University Belfast, where her dissertation examined Irish Language provisions in the Identity and Language Act 2022. She has represented CAJ at the United Nations and Council of Europe committees, coordinates the Equality Coalition, and authors policy reports. Her previous roles include Account Executive at a public affairs agency and Referral Coordinator at ASSIST NI, supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. She serves on the boards of the Northern Ireland Anti-Poverty Network and Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta, and is an alumna of the Boardroom Apprentice programme. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-77.jpg) **Máirtín Mac Gabhann** *Founder and Campaign Manager, Donate4Dáithí* Máirtín Mac Gabhann co-founded and leads the Donate4Dáithí campaign, which successfully introduced Dáithí’s Law (Northern Ireland’s soft opt-out organ donation system) during a political deadlock. Following the law’s enactment in 2023, Máirtín continues to raise awareness of organ donation and supports grassroots campaigns in health and education. Awarded an MBE for his contribution, he is a regular speaker at events involving policymakers, healthcare professionals, and universities. His campaigns are recognized for shifting narratives and delivering impact. With a background in education and strong public affairs experience, Máirtín focuses on connecting local action with global learning, using storytelling, lobbying, and strategic engagement to bridge systemic gaps. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-78.jpg) **Malachy McManus** *Manager at a large professional services firm* Malachy McManus is a manager at a large professional services firm. His work fosters transatlantic collaboration, and he advises on corporate legislation and compliance. As a One Young World Ambassador, Malachy has hosted leadership discussions for global audiences, written on environmental stewardship for The Irish News, and mentored junior colleagues. In the community, he plays and coaches for Drumragh GAA, fundraises for environmental projects, and has led inclusive youth programs. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-79.jpg) **Emma Murphy** *Government Affairs and Campaigns Officer, Queen’s University Belfast* Emma Murphy is the Government Affairs and Campaigns Officer at Queen’s University Belfast with a strong background in campaigning and public affairs. She holds a BA in English Literature and will graduate with an MA in Politics in 2026 from Queen’s University Belfast. Emma was elected as the Education Officer and then the President of Queen’s Students’ Union and campaigned to introduce cost-of-living and mental health measures. She has a particular interest in higher education and its effects on the Northern Irish economy. She has also contributed to the conference celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, the Shared Island Youth Forum, and several academic conferences. She is committed to shaping inclusive, evidence-based policy that strengthens transatlantic cooperation and uplifts communities in Northern Ireland. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-80.jpg) **Daniel James Toft** *Policy Officer, Ulster Farmers’ Union* Daniel Toft is a policy, communications, and operations professional with experience across parliamentary, academic, and charitable sectors. He is a policy officer at the Ulster Farmers’ Union, representing agricultural interests in legislative discussions and developing member-led policy positions. He also serves as chief of staff at Friends of the British Overseas Territories, overseeing strategic operations, stakeholder engagement, and projects. Daniel holds a first-class BA in Politics from Queen’s University Belfast and is completing an MSc in Political Science (Conflict Studies & Comparative Politics) at the London School of Economics and Political Science. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-81.jpg) **Grant Warren** *Constituency Assistant* Grant Warren is completing an MA in Global Security & Borders at Queen’s University Belfast and works as a constituency caseworker for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in Northern Ireland, preparing policy briefs and supporting public-facing initiatives. His research contributes to a strategic review of the peacebuilding charity Cooperation Ireland. A first-class honors graduate in French and History from Queen’s University Belfast, Grant has been active in student life as events officer and treasurer of the Literific debating society, helping to expand civic engagement and host high-profile guests, including former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and former UK Prime Minister Theresa May. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Untitled-design-82.jpg) **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [WATCH: Education and the Future of the Peace Process](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-education-and-the-future-of-the-peace-process/) **Published:** August 14, 2025 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Education and the Future of Northern Ireland’s Peace Process** *With Patricia O’Lynn, Matthew Taylor, Matthew O’Neil, and Anne Devlin* *August 7, 2025* *Moderated by Emma DeSouza* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) conducted two [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders ](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-now-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/)(NI EL) virtual talks this summer. These public events featured NI EL alumni sharing their insights and sparking meaningful conversations on two critical transatlantic topics: the role of education in peacebuilding, and transatlantic collaboration on climate and biodiversity. Participation was open to all. ***Education and the Future of Northern Ireland’s Peace Process*.** Four leaders from the past two cohorts of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders—[Patricia O’Lynn, Matthew Taylor](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2), [Matthew O’Neill, and Anne Devlin](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafps-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?actualPage=3)—joined together for a virtual panel discussion moderated by Program Director [Emma DeSouza](https://ncafp.org/our-team/). They examined how education can support the peace process and help shape a shared future. They discussed what’s working, what needs to change, and how cross-sector collaboration can advance lasting peace. ##### Featured Speakers: **Dr. Patricia O’Lynn** is a skilled researcher, political activist, education consultant, and committee chair. She has a demonstrated history of leading change in the field of education, where she champions collective impact approaches to reducing school exclusion. Patricia completed her doctoral research at Queen’s University, focusing on better understanding young people’s experiences of exclusion from school within the context of Northern Ireland. Prior to her doctoral research, she earned a master’s degree in social science, a degree in law, and a diploma in strategic leadership and management. Patricia is a Chartered Manager and Northern Ireland’s Lead Consultant for the Chartered Management Institute. She is also a recipient of the Sir Tomas Dixon Award and the Department for Economy doctoral scholarship. In 2022, she became the first woman in Northern Ireland’s history to be elected as an MLA to serve the people of North Antrim. Before this, she served as a Councillor in local government, representing the Alliance Party. **Matthew Taylor** is an activist, student, and writer. He co-founded the UK’s first entirely youth-led mental health charity at the age of seventeen, which has since benefited thousands of children and young people through a range of youth work programs, innovative approaches to public policy, and the development of an emotional curriculum for Northern Ireland’s primary and post-primary schools. In 2022, Matthew was awarded the Diana Award, the highest honour a young person in the U.K. can receive for their humanitarian and community work, in recognition of his contributions to advocacy for improved mental health education and services in Northern Ireland. He also successfully completed the prestigious Washington Ireland Program in the summer of 2022. **Dr Anne Devlin** is a Research Officer in the Economic Analysis Division at the Economic and Social Research Institute in Dublin. Her research interests are primarily in the areas of labour economics, economics of disability, economics of education, and social inclusion. Anne is also actively involved in researching the Northern Irish economy as well as various aspects of the all-island economy, including but not limited to, education across the island of Ireland, cross-border workers, the all-island labour market, and future labour supply North and South. Anne currently works with a range of external collaborators from various institutions in NI, Cyprus and the Netherlands. Anne disseminates her research widely in traditional media as well as writing blog posts, contributing to podcasts and utilising social media to reach a wider audience. Anne obtained her PhD in Economics from Queen’s University Belfast in 2021. Her PhD research examined the high levels of disability in Northern Ireland and whether there is a relationship with the conflict. During her doctoral studies Anne also conducted a research internship at the Northern Ireland Assembly Research and Information Service. Anne holds a BSc in Economics and an MSc in Management from Ulster University. Prior to joining the Institute in December 2020 Anne held a post at Ulster University and also has teaching experience from Queen’s University Belfast. Anne is a Visiting Researcher at Queen’s Business School, Queen’s University Belfast and a Steering Group member of the All-Island Social Security Network. [**Emma DeSouza**](https://ncafp.org/staff/) is the Director of the NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program. Emma is also a writer, campaigner, and peacebuilder. She led in the creation of the first All-island Women’s forum, acting as Chair and facilitator 2021-22, the Founder and Co-facilitator of Northern Ireland’s Civic Initiative, Vice-Chair of Votingrights.ie, and sits on the Board of Directors at 50:50NI. [Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhW9rKtdijU) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/N-Ireland-Education-Aug-7.jpg) Play ## Default Video Modal Title × Your browser does not support the video tag. Close Popup **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [WATCH: Lessons from Northern Ireland on Climate and Biodiversity Crisis](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-lessons-from-northern-ireland-on-climate-and-biodiversity-crisis-2/) **Published:** August 5, 2025 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Bridging the Atlantic: Lessons from Northern Ireland on Tackling the Climate and Biodiversity Crisis** *With Donal Griffin and Rosalind Skillen* *July 22, 2025* *Moderated by Emma DeSouza* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) conducted two [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders ](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-now-2025-26-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/)(NI EL) virtual talks this summer. These public events featured NI EL alumni sharing their insights and sparking meaningful conversations on two critical transatlantic topics: the role of education in peacebuilding, and transatlantic collaboration on climate and biodiversity. Participation was open to all. ***Bridging the Atlantic: Lessons from Northern Ireland on Tackling Climate and Biodiversity Crisis***. [Donal Griffin and Rosalind Skillen](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/?keyword=northern&actualPage=2) led a discussion on how lessons from Northern Ireland can help shape transatlantic strategies for tackling the climate and biodiversity crisis. Moderated by Program Director Emma DeSouza, this session explored practical ways to strengthen collaboration across the Atlantic in addressing these urgent global challenges ##### Featured Speakers: **Donal Griffin** is the coordinator of the Fair Seas Campaign and co-coordinator of the Irish Basking Shark Group. With a PhD in marine biology and ecology, Donal also has a wealth of policy experience from the UK and Ireland, including managing coalitions of marine and environmental NGOs. **Rosalind Skillen** is the Marine Policy and Advocacy Officer at BirdWatch Ireland. She has been an active campaigner and advocate for climate action and nature recovery for several years. Prior to joining BirdWatch Ireland, Rosalind held multiple roles across the environment sector in Northern Ireland and she worked closely with community groups to develop the first-ever iteration of community-led action plans in Northern Ireland. [**Emma DeSouza**](https://ncafp.org/staff/) is the Director of the NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program. Emma is also a writer, campaigner, and peacebuilder. She led in the creation of the first All-island Women’s forum, acting as Chair and facilitator 2021-22, the Founder and Co-facilitator of Northern Ireland’s Civic Initiative, Vice-Chair of Votingrights.ie, and sits on the Board of Directors at 50:50NI. [Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQWJcuoGiNg) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/NI-Climate.jpg) Play ## Default Video Modal Title × Your browser does not support the video tag. Close Popup **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders, Global Governance **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Advancing Peace, Progress, and Transatlantic Ties](https://ncafp.org/resources/advancing-peace-progress-and-transatlantic-ties-through-ncafps-emerging-leaders-program/) **Published:** March 7, 2025 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## **Advancing Peace, Progress, and Transatlantic Ties Through NCAFP’s Emerging Leaders Program** On March 5, a distinguished group gathered in Manhattan for NCAFP’s luncheon, “Next Generation Diplomacy: Redefining Transatlantic Priorities.” The event included engaging discussions on peace and progress in Northern Ireland and enhancing transatlantic relations, all while supporting the impactful work of NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program. The event began with powerful opening remarks from NCAFP President and CEO [Ambassador Susan Elliott](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-susan-m-elliott/) and [Senator George Mitchell](https://www.senate.gov/senators/FeaturedBios/Featured_Bio_MitchellGeorge.htm), both of whom underscored the critical role of the Emerging Leaders Program in strengthening transatlantic ties. Their reflections set the stage for a day filled with meaningful conversations. > > “It is now up to the current and future leaders of Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK to act with the same courage and vision as their predecessors did a quarter of a century ago. That is why this Emerging Leaders program is so critical. It represents the next chapter in ensuring that the peace process is sustained and that tomorrow’s leadership continues the work of past leaders. Building lasting peace is not a passive endeavor; it requires continuous effort, fresh ideas, and new leadership. Launched last year, this program brings together people from diverse backgrounds and ages. These are the next generation of leaders committed to sustaining and strengthening peace.” > > > >  Senator George Mitchell One of the highlights of the luncheon was a discussion on climate change, with [Angela Barranco of Climate Group ](https://www.theclimategroup.org/angela-barranco)and Northern Ireland Emerging Leader[ Donal Griffin](https://fairseas.ie/member/donal-griffin/) emphasizing the power of local voices in driving global change. They highlighted the opportunities and challenges facing transatlantic cooperation, stressing that programs like NCAFP’s Emerging Leaders initiative serve as essential bridges, fostering deeper collaboration and mutual understanding across the Atlantic. The event then turned to economic policy, moderated by [Nicholas Thompson](https://www.nickthompson.com/about-nicholas-thompson/), CEO of *The Atlantic*. A panel of experts—including [Colin McCabery](https://intertradeireland.com/staff/colin-mccabrey), Director of Trade at InterTradeIreland; [Gavin Corr](https://www.irishecho.com/2022/2/irish-4o-under-40-mindset-is-key-to-competing), Founder & CEO of Quintilian & Pazithi Group; and [Roseann Kelly](https://www.womeninbusinessni.com/about/the-team) MBE, CEO of Women in Business NI—discussed the implications of America’s new trade policies on Northern Ireland and Ireland.  Former Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III also gave virtual remarks. The third discussion focused on Women, Peace, and Security. NCAFP Trustee [Bridget Foley](https://ncafp.org/team/bridget-foley/) moderated an engaging discussion with former Diplomat [Helena Kane Finn](https://www.humanrightscolumbia.org/profile/visiting-scholars/helena-kane-finn), Emerging Leader [Tara Grace Connolly](https://www.irishnews.com/news/northernirelandnews/2020/10/07/news/west-belfast-woman-becomes-first-person-from-northern-ireland-to-be-appointed-a-youth-delegate-to-the-united-nations-2089607/), and [Jane McCooey ](https://www.irishamerica.com/honoree/jane-mccooey/)of Morgan Stanley. These distinguished speakers, with diverse expertise, highlighted women’s pivotal role in diplomacy, grassroots efforts, and business within peace processes worldwide. To close the event, actor and activist [Siobhan McSweeney](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2836709/), best known for her role in *Derry Girls*, and [Emma DeSouza](https://ncafp.org/staff/), Director of the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program, led a compelling conversation on the power of storytelling in peacemaking. The event raised awareness and funds for NCAFP’s [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland/), a transatlantic mentorship initiative designed to empower community leaders from Northern Ireland. This program equips participants with the necessary skills to turn their ideas into actionable policy recommendations, with the support of workshops, training sessions, and delegation visits to government and academic institutions. We sincerely thank all those who attended and contributed to the success of this impactful event and the program. To learn more about NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders or provide financial support for the program, please contact the Program Development Officer at Shaina.Katz@ncafp.org and [click here](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland/). ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/82.jpg) Panel discussion on the impact of local voices in driving global climate solutions ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/86.jpg) Consul General of Ireland in New York Helena Nolan ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/92.jpg) Joe Kennedy III delivers virtual remarks ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/43.jpg) Senator George Mitchell delivers virtual remarks ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/28.jpg) Ambassador Susan Elliott delivers opening remarks ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/26.jpg) Northern Ireland Emerging Leader Tara Grace Connolly greets mentor Helena Kane Finn ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/201.jpg) Actor Siobhan McCsweeny and Program Director Emma DeSouza in conversation ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/176.jpg) Panel discussion on inclusive leadership in peace talks diplomacy and business ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/115.jpg) Panel on economic ties between the US and Northern Ireland ## Senator George Mitchell’s Opening Remarks ## Former Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III’s Virtual Remarks **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [AWARDS: NCAFP's 50th Anniversary Gala Awards Dinner](https://ncafp.org/resources/awards-ncafps-50th-anniversary-annual-gala-dinner/) **Published:** October 1, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **NCAFP’s 50th Anniversary Gala Awards Dinner** *Thursday, October 24, 2024* *The Metropolitan Club, NYC* On Thursday, October 24th, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy hosted its 2024 Gala Celebration at the Metropolitan Club in New York City. The organization brought together 200 engaged supporters from the policy and diplomatic community, private sector, and academic institutions, alongside close friends of the organization. In an evening of both celebration and reflection, this year’s event commemorated the NCAFP’s 50 years of diplomacy in action and commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. The NCAFP was honored to present the Hans J. Morgenthau Award to **Secretary Robert E. Rubin,** the George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service to **Ambassador (ret.) Sung Y. Kim**, and the William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award to **Dean Emeritus John D. Feerick**. The evening’s Master of Ceremonies was **Ms. Jacqueline Adams**, Emmy Award-Winning former CBS News Correspondent and NCAFP Trustee. The evening debuted a specially-crafted video that reflected on the founding of the NCAFP, featuring Dr. George Schwab, Ambassador (ret.) Susan Elliott, the Honorable Jeffrey R. Schafer, along many other friends of the organization. The NCAFP then presented its Hans J. Morgenthau Award to **Secretary Robert E. Rubin**, the 70th United States Treasury Secretary. He warmly thanked the NCAFP, stating: “I think that in that respect, the National Committee makes a real contribution. What the National Committee does is to bring people together to discuss difficult issues without restraint, in the same way we used to do at Treasury. And not be barred by ideology or partisanship or anything else… and then bring people together from different parts of the world and, in some cases, people with big differences to try and iron out a result.” The award was presented by the NCAFP Chairman of the Board of Trustees, the **Honorable Jeffrey R. Shafer**. Afterward, **Ms. Susan A. Thornton**, NCAFP Director on Asia-Pacific Security, presented the George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service to **Ambassador (ret.) Sung Y. Kim**, former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, the Philippines, and Indonesia, and U.S. Special Representative to the DPRK.  In the face of global uncertainty, Ambassador Kim exemplifies the professional courage and ethical leadership needed in U.S. foreign policy. The final award, the William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award, was presented to **Dean Emeritus of Fordham School of Law, John D. Feerick,** by NCAFP Trustee, **John V. Connorton, Jr., Esq.**  Upon Dean Feerick accepting the award, he left the audience with these lasting remarks: “Throughout my life, I tried to bring the values my parents instilled in me and my siblings to my work as a lawyer and an educator. Bill Flynn’s vision of working toward peace in the world, no matter your context, still holds true and connects me to my values, which were shaped by my parents. To them and me, the United States was then and should always be a land of opportunity and inclusion for the children and grandchildren of immigrants who work hard and who are committed to our American ideals of justice and mutual care.” The NCAFP had the honor to recognize three remarkable leaders who embodied the mission of the National Committee and who’s tenures worked tirelessly to keep global lines of communication open during challenging times. We deeply value and appreciate the support of our foundational and corporate sponsors, trustees, community, and friends, who are integral to our mission. For questions about ways to continue giving, including corporate or individual sponsorship inquiries, please email our Program Development Officer, [Shaina Katz](mailto:shaina.katz@ncafp.org). ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Activity_3_1080x720.jpg) Guests attending the pre event cocktail reception ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Activity_5_1080x720.jpg) NCAFP Trustee John V Connorton with the Council on Foreign Relations Military Fellows ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Activity_6_1080x720.jpg) Master of Ceremonies NCAFP Trustee Jacqueline Adams delivering welcoming remarks ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Activity_7_1080x720.jpg) Ambassador ret Susan Elliott President CEO during the Gala Awards Ceremony ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Activity_2_1080x720.jpg) NCAFP Gala Awards ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-Gala-slideshow-title-slide.jpg) Play ## Default Video Modal Title × Your browser does not support the video tag. Close Popup ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/JeffShafer_BobRubin_1080x1080.jpg) The Honorable Jeffrey R. Shafer, Chairman of the NCAFP Board of Trustees, presents the Hans J. Morgenthau Award to Secretary Robert E. Rubin. **Secretary Robert E. Rubin** served as the 70th United States Treasury Secretary from 1995 to 1999, after serving as the first director of the White House National Economic Council. In these roles, he helped achieve the first federal budget surplus in a generation, address international financial crises, and resolve a debt-ceiling standoff, among much else. Rubin is the author of In an Uncertain World: Tough Choices from Wall Street to Washington, a New York Times bestseller, and The Yellow Pad: Making Better Decisions in an Uncertain World. He spent twenty-six years at Goldman Sachs, rising to co-senior partner, and was a senior counselor and board member at Citigroup. He currently serves as senior counselor to the independent investment advisory firm Centerview Partners, as co-chairman emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, and as chair of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation. Rubin is a founder of The Hamilton Project at the Brookings Institution, which promotes broad-based economic growth. A former member of the Harvard Corporation, he also served on its Finance Committee. He graduated from Harvard summa cum laude and from Yale Law School.  He has received honorary degrees from Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and other universities. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/SusanThorton_AmbSungKim_1080x1080.jpg) Ambassador Sung Y. Kim accepts the George F. Kennan Award from Susan Thornton, NCAFP Director on Asia-Pacific Security. **Ambassador Sung Kim** represented the United States with great distinction as U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Republic of Korea. In his Foreign Service career spanning over three decades, Ambassador Kim also led U.S. diplomatic efforts on North Korea as U.S. Special Representative for the DPRK and U.S. Special Envoy for the Six Party Talks. Earlier, Kim focused on strengthening U.S. alliances with Japan and the Republic of Korea, and covered political-military relations with China. For his outstanding accomplishments in diplomacy, Ambassador Kim received a Presidential Distinguished Service Award and a Presidential Meritorious Service Award. Prior to joining the U.S. diplomatic service, he worked as a prosecutor in Los Angeles, California. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania (BA), Loyola University (JD), and the London School of Economics (LLM), and has received honorary doctorate degrees from the Catholic University of Korea and Holy Name University of the Philippines. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/JohnFeerick_1080x1080.jpg) Dean Emeritus, John D. Feerick, delivers accepting remarks for the NCAFP William J. Flynn Award. **Dean Emeritus**, **John D. Feerick**, was 21 years as a partner at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, developing its labor and employment law practice, he served as the dean of Fordham University School of Law till July 2002. He is currently the Sidney C. Norris Professor of Public Service at Fordham University School of Law. He is also the Founder and Senior Counsel of Fordham Law School’s Feerick Center for Social Justice. During his tenure as dean at Fordham Law School, he served in a number of public positions: as a member of the New York State Law Revision Commission; as one of two representatives of New York City to the New York City Office of Collective Bargaining; as chairman of the New York State Commission on Government Integrity from 1987-1990; as a special New York State Attorney General from 1987-90; and as president of the Association of the Bar of the City of New York. He has been a mediator and arbitrator of many disputes, including labor disputes at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the 1994 transit negotiations in New York, the NFL salary cap and recently in the NBA. He has served in a number of Court-appointed positions to resolve disputes as a mediator and arbitrator.  He previously chaired the Ethics Committee of the Dispute Resolution Section of the American Bar Association, and a joint committee of the American Bar Association, American Arbitration Association, and Spider that developed a set of ethical standards for mediators of disputes. He served as the Chair of the Professionalism Committee of the American Bar Association Section on Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar and the New York State Committee to Promote Confidence in Judicial Elections. During his career, Professor Feerick has served as a member of a task force that helped develop the Twenty-Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution, and he was a draftsman of the proposed constitutional amendment on Electoral College reform that passed the United States House of Representatives in 1969. Professor Feerick is the author of several books, one of which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize, and scores of articles. Professor Feerick is a graduate of Fordham College ’58 and Fordham Law School ’61, where he served as editor-in-chief of its Law Review. **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: Conflict Prevention in the Taiwan Strait: Restraint, Discipline and Dialogue](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-conflict-prevention-in-the-taiwan-strait/) **Published:** July 18, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** *By Susan A. Thornton and Emily Sparkman* *July 2025* In June 2025, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) convened its annual Cross-Taiwan Strait Track II Dialogue in New York City, bringing together a select group of authoritative participants from all sides. This closed-door discussion focused on the increasingly tense dynamics shaping cross-Strait relations, with particular attention to the growing drivers of the security dilemma, diverging threat perceptions, and the erosion of mutual trust. Participants explored both short- and medium-term outlooks for peace and stability, assessed the effectiveness of deterrence strategies, and offered recommendations to reduce the risk of conflict in the absence of formal communication channels between Beijing and Taipei, as well as truncated communication between Beijing and Washington. Despite the relative stability in the Asia-Pacific region, the cross-Strait environment is increasingly at risk of crisis-level conflict. While deterrence has held, it is under growing strain from escalating military posturing, political rigidity, and lack of restraint on all sides. Participants agreed that the absence of communication increases the risk of near-term miscalculation or accidental escalation. Dialogue participants, therefore, identified potential paths for de-escalation, mutually improved signaling, and confidence-building measures aimed at preserving the status quo and preventing conflict. *Read and download the full report below*. [Conflict Prevention in the Taiwan Strait: Restraint, Discipline and Dialogue](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/NCAFP-FINAL-2025-CST-Report.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/NCAFP-FINAL-2025-CST-Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2025 --- ### [REPORT: U.S.-China in 2025: Cutting Through Uncertainty](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-us-china-2025-cutting-through-uncertainty/) **Published:** June 24, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** Hogogo/Getty Images *By Susan A. Thornton* *June 2025* In early May, the NCAFP convened policy experts and former officials from the U.S. and China in New York City for its annual Northeast Asia Security Track II Conference. Participants discussed the strategic direction of the U.S.-China relationship as well as actions to build more constructive relations, mitigate the current zero-sum competition, and avert deepening adversity to reduce the likelihood of crisis. The NCAFP recommends the following: - The U.S. should clearly articulate its China policy at the highest levels to reduce misperceptions and mistrust, which are exacerbated by inconsistent messaging. A greater clarity on strategic goals, intentions, and red lines is essential to prevent conflict. To this end, Washington and Beijing should prioritize careful management of the Cross-Strait situation, define the contours of economic competition, and sustain dialogue on military and security restraints. - Sustained communication is the guardrail of U.S.-China relations. Trump has the opportunity to use his political strength to initiate bold outreach to Chinese officials, reinforcing that Washington officials must be confident in engaging directly when needed, and encouraging Beijing to do the same. Stronger and more frequent established lines of communication will enhance the currently stagnant and difficult negotiations between U.S. and PRC officials. *Read and download the full report below*. [U.S.-China in 2025: Cutting Through Uncertainty](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/U.S.-China-Report-2025.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/U.S.-China-Report-2025.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** China **Year:** 2025 --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: Next-Gen Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) **Published:** December 15, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Policy Recommendations from an Emerging Leaders Workshop** *December 15, 2021* Throughout the year, the NCAFP held an Emerging Leaders Workshop of ten next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to discuss issues related to Korean Peninsula security. The Emerging Leaders shared their research and analysis on a variety of topics that deserve reexamination at this critical juncture. These include: - The North Korean nuclear challenge and prospects for renewed dialogue - US alliance management and expanded US-South Korea cooperation - South Korea’s engagement with Southeast Asia - Assessing Chinese coercion and strategic thinking To conclude the workshop, the NCAFP is pleased to share this edited volume of the Emerging Leaders’ policy papers on *Next Generation Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security.* [Click Here to Read the Edited Volume](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/FINAL_NCAFP-Emerging-Leaders-Edited-Volume-2021.pdf) In case you missed it, be sure to check out our panel discussion featuring some of our 2021 Emerging Leaders. In this virtual program, they shared their research and analysis on a range of topics related to the Korean Peninsula and the broader Asia Pacific. [Click here to watch the full program](https://ncafp.org/resources/read-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/?resources_content_type=past-webinars-events&actualPage=6) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Preparing for Trump 2.0](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-preparing-for-trump-2-0-2/) **Published:** January 22, 2025 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** ## **Preparing For Trump 2.0:** **Seeking Opportunities and Aligning Expectations in the Asia-Pacific** *By Susan A. Thornton and Emily Sparkman* *January 2025* The NCAFP’s Forum on Asia Pacific Security (FAPS) organized a high-level delegation of experts and former U.S. government officials to visit Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo, and Seoul for in-depth meetings with officials and other counterparts in December 2024. The NCAFP presents the following policy recommendations and conclusions: - Regional leaders hoped the incoming U.S. administration would continue strengthening alliances, maintain open channels of communication to avoid misunderstandings, and not turn away from global leadership. They believed there could be new opportunities in Trump’s unconventional approach to problems, but they worried about changing U.S. attitudes to global leadership and envisioned a difficult period ahead. - The impression from discussions in both Beijing and Taipei was that both sides are generally seeking to reduce cross-Strait tensions and stabilize relations for now as they focus on other pressing challenges. The NCAFP delegation strongly advocated for opening more channels directly across the Strait, especially between designated representatives of authorities, but also by removing recently imposed obstacles to people-to-people exchanges. - The U.S., Japan, and South Korea should also remain resolute in their commitment to address common regional and global challenges without allowing polarization from respective domestic politics to interfere in the process. - ROK, Japan, and China should assist with U.S. preparations for a post-Ukraine cease-fire re-engagement with the DPRK to maximize the chances of tangible security gains for the U.S. and the region. *Read and download the full report below*. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Asia-Trip-Report-2024-1.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2025 --- ### [REPORT: 2025 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** May 12, 2025 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** *May 2025* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is pleased to release the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2025 report. Over the past several months, the NCAFP convened a diverse and dynamic group of emerging leaders, scholars, and policy practitioners from across Northern Ireland. Through a series of in-depth discussions, participants examined the most pressing issues facing the region today, ranging from healthcare and education to gender equality and the arts. The result is a forward-looking report that offers innovative policy proposals and actionable recommendations. It reflects both the complexity of Northern Ireland’s current challenges and the extraordinary promise of its rising leaders. These individuals are not only advancing progress within their own communities but also contributing to the future of transatlantic relations. We invite you to read the full report and learn more about the emerging leaders and their important work: [5.2025 NI EL Report ](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4.25.2025-NI-EL-Report-14.pdf)[Download](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4.25.2025-NI-EL-Report-14.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Emerging Leaders, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2025 --- ### [WATCH: A "New Golden Age" in U.S.-Japan Relations?](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-a-new-golden-age-in-u-s-japan-relations/) **Published:** April 7, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **A “New Golden Age” in U.S.-Japan Relations?** *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *Hybrid Program* *Monday, March 31, 2025* The U.S.-Japan alliance remains a pillar of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and one of President Trump’s first invitations was for a Washington summit with Prime Minister Ishiba. The two declared a “New Golden Age” of U.S.-Japan relations. Yet, it seems clear that the alliance will need to confront tectonic changes in global security architecture, trade disputes and shifting international norms and institutions in the coming years. Amid an increasingly fractured geopolitical environment, how is one of the U.S.’s closest allies viewing developments? How should the U.S. and Japan be working to meet security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and instability in the international system? Watch the discussion with prominent experts Ken Jimbo and Christopher Johnstone as they explore the implications of the alliance under new leadership, discuss challenges and opportunities to strengthen cooperation on security and defense, investment in critical emerging technologies, and geopolitical challenges. This discussion was moderated by the Director of the Forum on Asia Pacific Security, Susan A. Thornton. Recorded by Really Useful Media [https://usefulmedia.net/](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqazVCOWJNOXNUcGdYZFRHZUNpSnBYUTZ0TWVxd3xBQ3Jtc0ttSHZjTXg4OHdabnpVNkNWZHJMTzVRcU5lNE90RWJ1ZzBUVFlTUjhsVWZSUllnOFV2U05kdWZoX2xlYnlMekE5ZENxdlY5eTVMYUxvSlduNGl5bGdael9UdG1lNF9hQWFsN0ctNDBTTTVlS0hwWnR3Zw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fusefulmedia.net%2F&v=lpU1mWRuvys) ## Speaker Bios **Ken JIMBO** is Professor at the Faculty of Policy Management, Keio University. He served as a Special Advisor to the Minister of Defense, Japan Ministry of Defense (2020) and a Senior Advisor, The National Security Secretariat (2018-20). His main research fields are in International Security, Japan-US Security Relations, Japanese Foreign and Defense Policy, Multilateral Security in Asia-Pacific, and Regionalism in East Asia. He has been a policy advisor for various Japanese governmental commissions and research groups including for the National Security Secretariat, the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His policy writings have appeared in NBR, The RAND Corporation, Stimson Center, Pacific Forum CSIS, Japan Times, Nikkei, Yomiuri, Asahi and Sankei Shimbun **Christopher B. JOHNSTONE** is Partner and Chair of the Defense & National Security Practice at The Asia Group, where he brings unparalleled expertise across Indo-Pacific markets including Japan, Taiwan, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Previously, Chris served as a Senior Advisor at TAG and concurrently as Senior Advisor and Japan Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). At CSIS, Chris led and expanded the Center’s role in shaping the U.S.- Japan alliance agenda, including on economic security, defense industrial cooperation, and multilateral frameworks. Chris served in government for 25 years in a variety of senior positions with a focus on U.S. alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. He served twice on the National Security Council, as Director for East Asia under President Biden (2021-2022) and Director for Japan and Oceanian Affairs under President Obama (2014–2016). In the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Chris led offices with responsibility for South and Southeast Asia (2017–2021) and East Asia (2016–2017). Prior to those roles, he served as Director for Northeast Asia (2010-2014), where he had principal responsibility for developing strategy for the U.S.-Japan and U.S.-South Korea alliances. Chris began his career as an intelligence officer in the Central Intelligence Agency, where he served as the senior political analyst at an East Asian field station, then as a team chief in the Office of Asia Pacific Analysis. He is a member of the board of trustees of the Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C., and the recipient of the Ryozo Kato Award for Service to the U.S.-Japan Alliance. Chris holds a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts from Swarthmore College. He attended Stanford University’s Inter-University Center for Japanese Language Studies in Yokohama, Japan. He speaks and reads Japanese. *Photo by rylan9 \| Getty Images* **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2025 --- ### [Introducing the 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders First Cohort](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland/) **Published:** January 1, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** On Saturday, December 2nd, the [National Committee on American Foreign Policy](https://ncafp.org/) (NCAFP) launched its inaugural Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program, a yearlong [transatlantic](https://ncafp.org/resources/transatlantic-alliances-in-a-new-era/) mentorship program for next-generation community leaders and policy practitioners from across the region. [The group includes ten community leaders and young professionals](https://ncafp.org/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) who will develop policy ideas on themes from education, environmental peacebuilding, and structural reform to women, peace, and security. Throughout the year, the participants will develop their policy ideas and present their final paper at a conference in New York City in October 2024. To maximize opportunities for professional development, the NCAFP has paired each participant with a mentor who will provide guidance throughout the year. The mentors include Ambassador Paula Dobriansky, Professor Martin Flaherty, Professor Kevin Kenny, Charley Landow, Professor Linda Longmire, Alyse Nelson, Kathryn (Kitty) Pilgrim, Ambassador Nancy Soderberg, Ambassador Barbara Stephenson, and William Tranghese. This new program adds to the NCAFP’s extensive Emerging Leaders network around the globe, including its programming with next-generation scholars and policy practitioners throughout the Asia-Pacific. Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott, President & CEO of the NCAFP, notes: “The NCAFP is thrilled to expand this program and contribute to Northern Ireland’s peace, stability, and prosperity.” Emma DeSouza, Program Director of the NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program, added: “The expansion of the NCAFP Emerging Leaders Network into Northern Ireland follows a series of events to mark and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. Building a sustained and prosperous peace requires work. This program and the participants will be working to deliver ambitious, future-focused policy ideas to advance peace, reconciliation, and well-being and strengthen transatlantic relations. Having celebrated 25 years of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, it’s time to start thinking about the next 25 years.” The NCAFP has worked on peacebuilding initiatives in Northern Ireland since the early 1990s. The organization was pivotal in the peace process when it successfully lobbied the Clinton administration to grant Gerry Adams a 48-hour visa to attend the NCAFP’s ground-breaking cross-border conference with John Hume and John Alderdice. Adam’s first appearance in the United States led to a ceasefire. It enabled him to develop ties with key U.S. leaders, assuring him and his party to enter into peace negotiations and sign the Belfast Agreement in 1998. *The NCAFP thanks the Ireland Funds for funding this project.* **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [WATCH: Nuclear Deterrence and Readiness Amid Escalating Threats](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-nuclear-deterrence-and-readiness-2/) **Published:** February 16, 2025 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## Nuclear Deterrence and Readiness Amid Escalating Threats with USAF Major General Jason R. Armagost** *With Jason R. Armagost* *Wednesday, February 19, 2025* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *Co-hosted with [The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/)* This hybrid program featured **Major General** **Jason R. Armagost**, Commander of Eighth Air Force and the Joint-Global Strike Operations Center at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. “The Mighty Eighth” is responsible for the service’s bomber force and airborne nuclear command and control assets, encompassing approximately 24,000 Airmen across six installations, and proudly operating more than 150 E-4, B-1, B-2, B-52 and T-38 aircraft. Major General Armagost discussed deterrence and readiness amid escalating threats including challenges posed by North Korea, China, and Iran as well as how the U.S.’s bomber force operates across the globe. This program was moderated by Susan Elliott, President and CEO of the NCAFP, and produced in collaboration with [**The Korea Society**](https://www.koreasociety.org/). And held at The Korea Society in New York City. **Featured Speakers:** **Major General** **Jason R. Armagost** *Commander, Eighth Air Force*, United States Air Force Maj. Gen. Jason R. Armagost is the Commander, Eighth Air Force, and Commander, Joint-Global Strike Operations Center, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. “The Mighty Eighth” is responsible for the service’s bomber force and airborne nuclear command and control assets, encompassing approximately 24,000 Airmen across six installations, and proudly operating more than 150 E-4, B-1, B-2, B-52 and T-38 aircraft. The J-GSOC serves as the central command and control node for all operations within Air Force Global Strike Command, orchestrating warfighting and readiness activities for the Commander, Air Forces Strategic. Maj. Gen. Armagost graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and was commissioned in 1992. He has served in multiple operational and training assignments and logged more than 2,900 hours in the B-2A, F-16CJ, F- 16CG, B-1B, B-52H and T-38A. His notable educational and staff assignments include a fellowship at the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University, California, Chief of Nuclear Operations on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon, and Director of Strategic Plans, Programs, and Requirements at Air Force Global Strike Command. Maj. Gen. Armagost commanded the 13th Bomb Squadron at Whiteman AFB, Missouri, the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot AFB, North Dakota, and the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. His operational assignments supported contingency operations during operations Desert Strike, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, Inherent Resolve, Freedom’s Sentinel and Deliberate Resolve. He also served as the Deputy Commanding General for Security Assistance Group-Ukraine, where he led coordination of the DoD’s historic security assistance support effort to the Ukrainian government. Further, he has flown numerous combat missions in the F-16CJ, B-2A, B-1B and the B-52H. **[Ambassador (ret.) Susan Elliott](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-susan-m-elliott/)** *President and CEO*, NCAFP [Watch On Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfnliuyYXtY) ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USAF-Nuclear-Deterrence.jpg) Play ## Default Video Modal Title × Your browser does not support the video tag. Close Popup **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Regional Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Europe, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2025 --- ### [WATCH: Shaping the Future of Security on the Korean Peninsula](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-shaping-the-future-of-security-on-the-korean-peninsula/) **Published:** February 21, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Shaping the Future of Security on the Korean Peninsula: Next-Generation Policy Perspectives** *February 18, 2025* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* With a political crisis in South Korea, North Korea implicated in the Ukraine war, tense cross-Taiwan Strait relations, and a second Trump administration in the U.S., 2025 is set to be marked with many challenges both in the Korean Peninsula and in the broader Asia Pacific. Without careful management of relationships and geopolitical tensions, these interconnected issues could spiral into larger regional conflicts. The discussion featured our 2024 cohort of next-generation Korean Peninsula specialists. They shared their insights and policy recommendations for the U.S. and South Korean governments on how to address these challenges facing the Korean Peninsula. In 2024, the NCAFP organized its third cohort of next-generation Korean Peninsula specialists from all over the world to share their insights on challenges on the Korean Peninsula. These young policy professionals and scholars spent the last nine months networking with their peers, meeting with mentors, participating in professional development workshops, and writing policy papers on key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2025 --- ### [LISTEN: Shifting Perspectives: Redefining Track II Diplomacy to Re-engage North Korea](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-shifting-perspectives-redefining-track-ii-diplomacy-to-re-engage-north-korea/) **Published:** February 19, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** *With Cathy Kang* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Cathy Kang to discuss her research into European-led Track II diplomacy with North Korea. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Cathy KANG** is a PhD candidate in International Relations at Sofia University, specializing in international negotiations and security dynamics with a focus on the Korean Peninsula. Raised in Europe and having studied in Korea, Cathy Kang brings a unique multicultural perspective to her studies. Her dissertation examines South Korea’s soft power initiatives and their impact on North- South Korea peace negotiations, highlighting her interest in diplomacy and peacebuilding. Cathy Kang is an advisory member at the Peaceful Unification Advisory Committee where she is contributing to projects on peace and international cooperation through cultural diplomacy. Her work has been recognized at several international conferences, where he has presented her findings on multilateral negotiations and the role of the soft power. In addition, Cathy is a graduate researcher at the Korea Peace Institute where she works together with like-minded graduate researchers on the topic of peace on the Korean Peninsula. Driven by a commitment to enhance understanding and peace regionally and globally, Cathy Kang aspires to contribute to policy-making that supports stability and development in the region. He is particularly fascinated by the interplay of cultural diplomacy and political strategy on the Korean Peninsula. Outside of academia, Cathy enjoys networking, traveling and coffee. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: 2024 Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/resources/edited-volume-2024-next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/) **Published:** February 14, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Shaping the Future of Security on the Korean Peninsula: Next-Generation Policy Perspectives** *February 2025* In 2024, the NCAFP organized its third cohort of next-generation Korean Peninsula specialists from all over the world to share their insights on challenges on the Korean Peninsula. These young policy professionals and scholars spent the last nine months networking with their peers, meeting with mentors, participating in professional development workshops, and writing policy papers on key issues related to Korean Peninsula security. A new Edited Volume, *Shaping the Future of Security on the Korean Peninsula,* compiles their policy papers on a range of topics particular to issues involving the Korean Peninsula and U.S. policy toward Korea and in the Asia-Pacific region. They cover proposals for soft power diplomacy, suggestions for engagement with the DPRK, how to address concerns about deterrence, and a range of other issues. *Read and download the full edited volume below.* [Click here to read the edited volume](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/NCAFP_Leaders_2025_v3.pdf) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2025 --- ### [LISTEN: Swedish Exchange Student Studying in North Korea](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-swedish-exchange-student-studying-in-north-korea/) **Published:** February 11, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** *With Erik Danielsson* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Erik Danielsson, MA candidate at the Swedish Defence University, to discuss his experience as a Swedish exchange student studying at Kim Il Sung University in Pyongyang, North Korea. He goes into details about what his day-to-day was like, giving listeners an exclusive look into what life is like for an exchange student studying in North Korea. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Nils (Erik) Danielsson** is a MA candidate in Defense Systems Science and assistant at the Swedish Defence University. He has previously been a Research Fellow at the Democracy and New Policy Center researching Mongolian diplomatic, military, and economic policies as well as published a book chapter on Swedish-Mongolian relations. He has previously worked on Korean Peninsula security issues at the Center for Strategic and International Studies Korea Chair, Institute for Security and Development Policy Korea Centre and conducted armament and disarmament research at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Mr. Danielsson holds a Masters in Asian Studies concentrating in Politics and Security from Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Asian Languages and Cultures with a focus Korea from Stockholm University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science focusing on Crisis Management and Security from the Swedish Defence University. He has also attended Kim Il Sung University as the first Swedish exchange student and traveled to the DPRK on several occasions. He has published on book chapters and articles on the Perception of Genghis Khan in DPRK Historiography, Swedish-Mongolian foreign relations, the North Korean Cruise Missile Program, DPRK conceptualization of security and Food in Pyongyang. His main research interests are disaster risk reduction in the DPRK, DPRK military capability development, air and missile defense, CCP espionage, DPRK-Mongolian bilateral relations, Swedish-Mongolian bilateral relations and the security environment on the Korean peninsula. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Who Should Speak for South Korea? Invigorating South Korea’s Unification Diplomacy Efforts in the U.S.](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-who-should-speak-for-south-korea/) **Published:** February 10, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** *With Minseon Ku* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Minseon Ku, Postdoctoral Fellow at William and Mary, to discuss her research into South Korea’s unification diplomacy efforts in the U.S. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Minseon KU** is Postdoctoral Fellow with the Diplomacy Project at William & Mary’s Global Research Institute and an incoming Assistant Professor of Applied Diplomacy at DePaul University.  She is working on a book project on the rise of summitry as a state practice in world politics. Her other research interests include International Relations theory, diplomatic practices, the international politics of rapprochement, US-Northeast Asia relations, and South Korea’s foreign policy and diplomacy. Her research has been published in the *International Organization*, the *Hague Journal of Diplomacy*, and the *Review of International Studies.*  She has also contributed policy commentaries on Northeast Asia in various outlets including the Diplomat, 38 North, the National Interest, and the East Asia Forum. She was previously the 2023-4 Spencer Fellow in US Foreign Policy and International Security at the John Sloan Dickey Center for International Understanding at Dartmouth. She received her MA and Ph.D. in Political Science from the Ohio State University, and a Master’s degree and a BA from Yonsei University in Seoul. Prior to her doctorate program, she was a visiting junior scholar at the Office of the Korea Chair at CSIS and a research assistant at the National Assembly Budget Office in South Korea. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Restructuring the Agenda: Shifting U.S.-DPRK Talks Toward Nuclear Safety](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-restructuring-the-agenda-shifting-us-dprk-talks-toward-nuclear-safety/) **Published:** February 7, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** *With Caroline Kearney* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Caroline Kearney to discuss her research into why the U.S. should have a new approach to negotiations with the DPRK, by changing the objective of talks from denuclearization to nuclear safety. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Caroline KEARNEY** is a Ph.D. candidate in Korean Studies at Yonsei University and a 2023–24 U.S.–Asia Grand Strategy Predoctoral Fellow at the University of Southern California’s Korean Studies Institute. Her dissertation focuses on interpreting North Korean foreign policy through state media analysis. Previously, Caroline authored the *Month-in-Review* publication for *NK Pro* and organized dialogues and workshops on Korean Peninsula issues at the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPCS) in Cambodia. She is the author of the CPCS report *Seizing a Window of Opportunity for Peace on the Korean Peninsula* and has contributed analyses to the Institute for Security and Development Policy and the Jeju Peace Institute. In addition, Caroline has actively participated in advocacy efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula in Washington, D.C., Brussels, and New York. Caroline holds an M.A. in Global Affairs with a concentration in Conflict and Development from George Mason University and a B.A. in Political Science from Troy University in Alabama. She is fluent in Korean and Spanish. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: How Do Joint Military Exercises Under the Nuclear Umbrella Affect South Korea’s Stance on Nuclear Proliferation?](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-joint-military-exercises-nuclear-umbrella/) **Published:** February 6, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** *With Jinwon Lee* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Jinwon Lee to discuss her research on the affect that U.S.-ROK Joint Military Exercises have on public opinion on nuclear weapons development in South Korea. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Jinwon LEE** is Ph.D. candidate of Political Science at University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. She served as a researcher at the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy and a research associate at the Korea Institute for National Unification. Her areas of research interest include US-Korea alliance, nuclear weapons, nuclear proliferation, and alliance politics. She received her B.A. in political science and an M.A. in international peace and security from Korea University. She is currently concluding my time as a 2023-2024 Hans J. Morgenthau Grand Strategy Fellow at Notre Dame’s international Security Center. Her doctoral research examines intra-alliance relationship patterns and intra-alliance dynamics’ impacts on each alliance member state’s behaviors. Why do some strong alliance member states provide core alliance commitments to their minor allies while others do not? Among the variety of alliance commitments, she focuses on analyzing a patron’s variance in providing a nuclear umbrella to its minor allies. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Strategic Pathways for South Korea in Taiwan Contingency Scenarios](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-strategic-pathways-for-south-korea-in-taiwan-contingency-scenarios/) **Published:** February 4, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Strategic Pathways for South Korea in Taiwan Contingency Scenarios** *With Yerin Yoon* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Yerin Yoon to discuss her research into the impact of a Taiwan contingency on the security architecture of the Korean Peninsula. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Yerin YOON** is currently a graduate student at Fletcher School, Tufts University. Previously, she served as a surface warfare officer in the Republic of Korea Navy after graduating from the Republic of Korea Naval Academy with dual bachelor’s degrees in International Relations and Military Science. Through her military service, she acquired extensive expertise in naval operations, communications, combat and weapon systems, logistics, and military training, and participated in a naval engagement against a North Korean warship in 2014. Following her service, Ms. Yoon worked as a U.S. Foreign policy researcher at the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security (IFANS) of the Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focusing on the Indo-Pacific strategies and the U.S.-ROK alliance. Before this, she also gained valuable experience in North Korean research during her Internship at the Institute for Far Eastern Studies (IFES), where she analyzed materials from North Korea and researched issues related to Korean Peninsula security. Building on these experiences, she completed her research fellowship at Pacific Forum in Hawaii, where her work centered on security issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula, with particular emphasis on the U.S.-ROK alliance and the ROK military affairs. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Soft Power, Deterrence, and South Korea's National Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-soft-power-deterrence-rok-national-security/) **Published:** January 31, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Soft Power, Deterrence, and South Korea’s National Security** *With Attawat Assavanadda* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Attawat Assavannadda to discuss his research on the role that soft power plays on South Korean national security. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Attawat Joseph Ma ASSAVANADDA is** a PhD Candidate in the Department of Politics and Public Administration at the University of Hong Kong and Young Leader at Pacific Forum (a Honolulu-based think tank). He researches International Relations and Security of East Asia, with particular interests in the roles of soft power and public diplomacy in regional peace and security. His ongoing PhD project scrutinizes Thai people’s receptions of China’s public diplomacy using a mixture of field research, survey experiments, and in-depth interview methods. Prior to doctoral training, he obtained a Master of Arts in International Relations (International Security specialization) from Waseda University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Chulalongkorn University. Professionally, he previously worked as a political analyst at Government House of Thailand, a research assistant at Chulalongkorn University’s Institute of Asian Studies and Thammasat University’s German-Southeast Asian Centre of Excellence for Public Policy and Good Governance (CPG), and a research intern at the University of New South Wales. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Coordinating with the Quad: A Case for South Korea’s Involvement at the Working Group Level](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-coordinating-with-the-quad/) **Published:** January 30, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Coordinating with the Quad: A Case for South Korea’s Involvement at the Working Group Level** *With Emma Whitmyer* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Emma Whitmyer, Senior Program Office at the Asia Society Policy Institute, to discuss her research into why South Korea should pursue engagement and cooperation with the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue and what that engagement should look like. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Emma WHITMYER** is Senior Program Officer at the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) in New York. She works with ASPI’s Vice President of International Security and Diplomacy Daniel Russel on issues relating to East and Southeast Asia. Prior to joining ASPI, she was a Junior Scholars Fellow with the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A large portion of her background has been focused on the U.S.-ROK alliance and Korean Peninsula affairs. Emma has a Master’s of Global Affairs & Policy from Yonsei University in South Korea, as well as a Bachelor’s from Eastern Michigan University in International Affairs and Business German. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Rethinking U.S. Strategy Toward North Korea with Blue Ribbon Commissions](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-rethinking-u-s-strategy-toward-north-korea-with-blue-ribbon-commissions/) **Published:** January 27, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Rethinking U.S. Strategy Toward North Korea with Blue Ribbon Commissions** *With Chelsie Alexandr*e *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with Chelsie Alexandre, Policy Program Officer at The Korea Society, to discuss her research on Blue Ribbon Commissions and how they can effectively influence U.S. policy toward North Korea. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Chelsie Alexandre** is the Policy Program Officer at The Korea Society. She works with the Director of Policy to develop and implement events that address issues shaping the dynamics of U.S.-ROK relations, the Korean peninsula, and Northeast Asia. Before joining The Korea Society, Chelsie received a Fulbright Research award to conduct research in South Korea on the role of middle power countries in the Korean peace process with Korea University’s Peace and Democracy Institute. During her time in Seoul, she also briefly reported on domestic Korean affairs for The Diplomat. Prior to her current role, Chelsie was a Partnerships Coordinator at the New York City-based nonprofit, The Concordia Summit, and she worked as a Legal Analyst at the global law firm Kobre & Kim. Chelsie also had previous experience as a research Intern at The Korea Society. She graduated with a B.A. in Politics from Princeton University, with minors in East Asian Studies and Diplomacy. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Reframing the U.S.-ROK Strategy for North Korean Diplomacy](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-reframing-the-u-s-rok-strategy-for-north-korean-diplomacy/) **Published:** January 28, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Reframing the U.S.-ROK Strategy for North Korean Diplomacy** *With* *Ian Fleming Zhou* *In conversation with Susan A. Thornton* *November 2024* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s program on Asia-Pacific security, sits down with PhD scholar Ian Fleming Zhou to discuss his research on North Korea’s negotiation tactics and how the U.S. and ROK can work together to counter North Korea’s stalling tactics to ensure successful negotiations. Read more about our Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists Program [here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-korean-peninsula-specialists/). **Ian Fleming Zhou** is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. His doctoral research examines U.S.-led economic sanctions on North Korea’s nuclear program, focusing on their efficacy in counter-proliferation efforts. He is a former Arms Control Negotiation Academy (ACONA) Fellow (2023–2024 cohort). Mr. Zhou’s dedication to advancing nuclear arms control and disarmament is reflected in his extensive contributions, including policy papers, peer-reviewed journal articles, and opinion pieces, as well as active participation in international arms control forums. During the 10th NPT Review Conference in 2022, he served as the Peaceful Uses Youth Working Group Chair under the British American Security Information Center (BASIC)’s Emerging Voices Network. He is also a former Executive Board Member of BASIC’s Emerging Voices Network. Previously, Mr. Zhou was a research fellow at the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) as part of the 2022 cohort. His areas of expertise include arms control, nuclear diplomacy, nonproliferation, and disarmament. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: Whither Ambiguity? Next-Generation Perspectives on Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-whither-ambiguity-next-generation-perspectives-on-cross-taiwan-strait-relations/) **Published:** January 16, 2025 **Author:** Nia Williams **Content:** ## **Whither Ambiguity? Next-Generation Perspectives on Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations** *By Juliet Lee and Nia Williams* *January 2025* In the second half of 2024, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) convened a second cross-Strait next-generation working group with young scholars and experts from the United States, Mainland China, and Taiwan to highlight new voices on the longstanding and sensitive issue of cross-Taiwan Strait relations. Throughout this series of dialogues, participants shared their assessments of the current situation and their recommendations to manage relations. A few takeaways and recommendations from the dialogues include: - Each side’s priority is to maintain peace and stability and to prevent the current situation in the Taiwan Strait from deteriorating into a military conflict. However, each side is balancing their own domestic issues and priorities can change. Careful management is needed to ensure that maintaining peace and stability is a priority. - It is important to keep direct channels of communication open to discuss signals and interpretations of actions and to avoid misjudgments. To that end, Beijing and Taipei can begin to normalize scholarly exchanges and ensure the safe movement of people. - The excessive securitization of exchanges render exchanges difficult to execute and lower the confidence of individuals on both sides to engage with each other. People-to-people exchanges should not be treated as a national security threat. To read more about our Next-Generation Cross-Taiwan Strait Specialists Program, please [click here](https://ncafp.org/next-generation-cross-taiwan-strait-specialists/). For more on our Emerging Leaders Programs, please [click here](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/). [Click Here to Download Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/NCAFP-CST-Next-Gen-Report.pdf) [Click Here to Read Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/NCAFP-CST-Next-Gen-Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2024 --- ### [EVENT: Does Engaging the Taliban Legitimize Gender Apartheid?](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-does-engaging-the-taliban-legitimize-gender-apartheid/) **Published:** October 25, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Does Engaging the Taliban Legitimize Gender Apartheid? A Conversation about Journalism, Human Rights, and Foreign Policy** *October 28, 2024* *Moderated by Elmira Bayrasli* This program addressed the political and ethical questions of how to report and engage with the Taliban to secure human rights and gender protections. The panelists offered a variety of perspectives and lived experiences about Afghanistan’s domestic and foreign policy, human rights, and journalism. The program was held at New York University’s Journalism Commons at 20 Cooper Square. This event was open to the public and a special NCAFP collaboration with [Bard Globalization and International Affairs Program](https://bgia.bard.edu/),  [Interruptrr](https://interruptrr.substack.com/), [Hagop Kevorkian Center for Near Eastern Studies](https://as.nyu.edu/research-centers/neareaststudies.html), and [NYU Graduate School of Arts and Science](https://gsas.nyu.edu/). ##### **Featured Panelists:** **Fatema D. Ahmadi**, *Research Consultant*, Rawadari **Kaavya Asoka**, *Executive Director*, NGO working group on Women, Peace, and Security **Erica Gaston**, *Head of the Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace Programme*, United Nations University Centre for Policy Research **Annie Pforzheimer**, *Senior Non-Resident Associate,* Center for Strategic and International Studies **Elmira Bayrasli** *Director*, Bard Globalization and International Affairs Program *Founder and Editor-in-Chief*, Interruptrr **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Central Asia, Middle East **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-2024-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** November 25, 2024 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Excerpt:** NCAFP's new report, "Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders: Advancing Peace through Policy," addresses key issues, from healthcare and gender equality to education, and offers actionable policy solutions. **Content:** ## **Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders: Advancing Peace through Policy** *November 25, 2024* Northern Ireland’s path to prosperity hinges on more than just the absence of open conflict—it requires political stability, economic growth, and a strong commitment to human rights and reconciliation. The restoration of the power-sharing executive in January 2024, along with Sinn Féin’s rise and the UK’s new Labour government, presents both challenges and opportunities for Northern Ireland. It also offers a chance to strengthen British-Irish and transatlantic relations, with lasting implications for the region and the world. In recent months, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) brought together a group of [emerging leaders](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/)— scholars and policy practitioners from Northern Ireland—to engage in in-depth discussions on addressing these critical issues. Their ideas are presented in a new report, *Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders: Advancing Peace through Policy.* The 2024 cohort of[ NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland/ " NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders") tackles key issues, from healthcare and gender equality to education, offering actionable policy solutions to the region’s most pressing challenges. *Read and download the full report below*. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/NCAFP-Northern-Ireland-Emerging-Leaders-11.2024.pdf) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes, Reports **Topic:** Emerging Leaders, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2024 --- ### [NCAFP's 2025 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafps-2025-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** December 15, 2024 **Author:** Shaina Katz **Content:** ## **Announcing NCAFP’s 2025 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders**  *December 15, 2024* The NCAFP is excited to launch the second year of our [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland/ "Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program"), a mentorship initiative that empowers community leaders from Northern Ireland to develop innovative solutions promoting peace, reconciliation, and sustainable development, while strengthening transatlantic relations. Building on the success of its inaugural year, this year’s program has expanded to include additional leaders who share a common vision for a more prosperous and peaceful Northern Ireland. Our cohort now features twelve exceptional community leaders and scholars, whose names and affiliations are listed below. Over the next six months, these emerging leaders will develop policy proposals on issues such as human rights, government reform, the arts as a tool for peacebuilding, increasing women’s participation in politics, rural youth development, healthcare reform, and more. With support from NCAFP’s network of mentors—comprising former government officials, leading scholars, and experts—these leaders will transform their ideas into actionable policy recommendations that aim to create a brighter future for the people of Northern Ireland and beyond. At the conclusion of the program, the cohort will present their ideas at a conference in New York City in May 2025. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-2688-x-1622-px-1-750x453.jpg) **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2024 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Conference](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-conference/) **Published:** November 15, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## NCAFP Hosts Inaugural Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Conference *November 15, 2024* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) held its inaugural conference for the [Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland/) in New York City on October 8-9, 2024. This engaging two-day event brought together NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders with policymakers, experts, and influential figures to explore innovative policy ideas aimed at fostering a more secure and inclusive future for Northern Ireland and beyond. The conference opened with remarks from Joe Kennedy III, the United States Special Envoy for Northern Ireland, who underscored the critical challenges facing the region and stressed the importance of strengthening transatlantic ties. U.S. Congressman Richard Neal, a key figure in Northern Ireland’s peace negotiations, followed with a reflection on America’s role in advancing these vital relationships. The conference featured engaging panels connecting emerging leaders with prominent figures. Highlights included discussions on human rights policy with Kerry Kennedy, President of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, and healthcare reform with Michael J. Dowling, President and CEO of Northwell Health. The event also included academics and journalists addressing a variety of key issues, along with panel and side events featuring high-level representatives from the British and Irish Consulates in New York. During the two-day event, leaders presented their final policy papers on critical issues in Northern Ireland that affect global and transatlantic relations. These topics included refugee integration, environmental challenges, early childhood intervention, barriers to women’s political participation, minority language rights, and reforms in education and healthcare. The conference concluded with a guided tour of the United Nations, offering emerging leaders valuable insights into global initiatives as they finalized their policy recommendations. The conference, while covering a diverse range of topics, highlighted the profound connections between these subjects in shaping a better future—not only for Northern Ireland but for the world at large. As we celebrate over 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement, it is increasingly important to weave these interconnected threads together to contribute to a brighter future for all. *The Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program is a yearlong transatlantic mentorship program for next generation community leaders and policy practitioners from across the region.* ***To learn more about the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program,** [**CLICK HERE**](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland/)* *View highlights from the event below.* ![Joe Kennedy III, U.S. Special Envoy for Northern Ireland, joins virtually to deliver keynote remarks at the 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Conference in New York City.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/4.png) Joe Kennedy III US Special Envoy for Northern Ireland delivers keynote remarks ![Kerry Kennedy, President of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, participates Virtually in a panel discussion on a human rights-based approach to policy.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/9.png) Kerry Kennedy President of Robert F Kennedy Human Rights participates in a panel discussion ![Michael J. Dowling, CEO of Northwell Health, discusses healthcare reform during the 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Conference.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/NI-EL-2.png) Michael J Dowling CEO of Northwell Health discusses healthcare reform ![Congressman Richard Neal addresses the audience at the 2024 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders conference.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/8.png) Congressman Richard Neal gives opening remarks ![Emerging Leader Matthew Taylor presents the final slide of his presentation on mental health education and services in Northern Ireland at the 2024 conference in New York City.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/6.png) Emerging Leader Matthew Taylor presents his final policy paper ![Emerging Leader Judith Atwell presents her final research paper on refugee integration in Northern Ireland at the 2024 conference in New York City.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/5.png) Emerging Leader Judith Atwell presents her final policy paper ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/3.png) Emerging Leader Patricia OLynn asks a question during a panel discussion ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/7.png) Emerging leaders mentors and NCAFP staff on the final day of the conference **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: Debating Cross-Taiwan Strait Perspectives](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-report-debating-cross-taiwan-strait-perspectives/) **Published:** August 17, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Debating Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations: Emerging Leaders’ Perspectives** *August 17, 2022* With the continued absence of dialogue between Beijing and Taipei, and the cut-off of major US-China bilateral dialogues in response to US Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s recent [visit](https://apnews.com/article/china-asia-beijing-malaysia-a5a6acc391511c99b1b4c2d69e67b133) to Taipei, cross-Taiwan Strait relations are at their lowest point in decades. Each side accuses the other of eroding the “status quo,” yet there are different perspectives on what the “status quo” actually is. Over the last few months, the NCAFP convened a cross-Strait emerging leaders working group with young scholars from the US, Mainland China, and Taiwan to share their perspectives on the current state of cross-Strait relations, how each side defines the “status quo,” and policy recommendations for managing the relationship. Following a Track II discussion among the young scholars and their mentors, several emerging leader participants collaborated on a report, “Debating Cross-Taiwan Strait Relations: Emerging Leaders’ Perspectives,”  that highlights the different perspectives across the Strait. [Click here to read the report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/NCAFP-PRC-Taiwan-U.S.-Emerging-Leaders-Track-II-Report-1.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: Resisting a "New Normal" in the Taiwan Strait](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-report-resisting-a-new-normal-in-the-taiwan-strait/) **Published:** October 29, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Resisting a “New Normal” in the Taiwan Strait** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *October 29, 2022* In a recent Track II discussion, participants from the U.S., Mainland China, and Taiwan described the current situation in the Taiwan Strait as becoming more and more dangerous, especially following the [August 2 visit](https://apnews.com/article/china-asia-beijing-malaysia-a5a6acc391511c99b1b4c2d69e67b133) of U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei, the  increase in military activities by the Mainland in and around the Strait, and the suspension of several bilateral U.S.-China dialogues. Participants discussed their perceptions of the status quo, which side is changing it and how, and whether or not the current situation in the Strait should be characterized as a “new normal.” In the absence of functional communication channels, there remains an urgent need for private, direct, and substantive channels of communication at all levels to share perspectives, clarify intentions, and manage dangers. To read more about other key takeaways and recommendations from this Track II discussion, [click here to read, “Resisting a ‘New Normal’ in the Taiwan Strait.”](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/NCAFP-Cross-Strait-Report_Oct.-2022-1.pdf) [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/NCAFP-Cross-Strait-Report_Oct.-2022-1.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: Assessing the Western Balkans' Way Forward](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-assessing-the-western-balkans-way-forward/) **Published:** July 26, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** *July 26, 2021* In 2018, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), in cooperation with the [East West Institute (EWI)](https://www.eastwest.ngo/), published [Time for Action in the Western Balkans](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Time-for-Action-in-the-Western-Balkans.pdf), an analytical report and set of policy recommendations for the future of US policy vis-à-vis the region.  While some prescriptions laid out by that report have come to pass, many continue to require careful attention from policymakers both in the United States and Europe. Critically, the key recommendation from the 2018 report that can be carried into the present implores key officials from both sides of the Atlantic to clarify and coordinate their efforts to more closely integrate the Western Balkans into European and transatlantic political, economic and security institutions.  This remains one of, if not the paramount concern for policymakers and stakeholders in the United States, European Union and the region. From late 2019 to June 2021, the NCAFP, [Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC)](https://nizamiganjavi-ic.org/), and Shared Societies and Values Foundation Sarajevo (FSSV) held a series of conferences and meetings designed to spur proposals for action in line with renewed engagement on the part of the US and EU. Check out the Executive Summary and Full Report below: ### [Executive Summary](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Assesing-the-Western-Balkans-Way-Forward-Executive-Summary.pdf) ### [Full Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Assessing-the-Western-Balkans-Way-Forward-June-2021.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Lessons Learned from the U.S.-China S&ED](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-report-us-china-strategic-economic-dialogues/) **Published:** September 13, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Engagement Revisited: Progress Made and Lessons Learned from the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue** *September 13, 2021* Months of intensive research by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, [the American Friends Service Committee](https://afsc.org/), and four independent researchers reveal that the U.S. gained significant benefits from official dialogue mechanisms with China. Researchers conducted an audit of the Obama administration’s flagship engagement process with China, [the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue](https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/international/us-china-comprehensive-economic-dialogue), to examine its effectiveness. The study examined the nearly 1,000 commitments the two countries made to each other between 2010 and 2016 to see what became of these arrangements. The extensive audit revealed that official dialogue processes contributed significantly to US and global security by stabilizing the global economy in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, addressing climate change, improving public health and pandemic response, as well as enhancing security cooperation on issues such as law enforcement and enhancing nuclear waste disposal efforts. “After looking through thousands of documents and conducting dozens of interviews, this audit of U.S.-China diplomacy shows that we can make progress through negotiations and that China follows through on its commitments,” says Susan Thornton, Project Director for the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS). “The notion that engagement with China did not benefit the U.S. is just not accurate.” The study comes at a critical time as U.S.-China relations are at a low point and only few official channels of communication remain open. The report reveals that official dialogue processes achieved much more than they are often given credit for and offer a low-cost means of advancing U.S. interests peacefully. Crucially, the research reveals that the U.S.-China dialogue was effective at dealing with global crises such as pandemics, climate change, and financial turmoil. Prior to the halting of these processes in 2017, the US and China effectively addressed issues such as the Ebola crisis in Africa, wildlife trafficking, and risks to the global economy. “Having a consistent process is the best way for the U.S. and China to cooperate and compete at the same time,” said Rorry Daniels, Deputy Project Director for FAPS at the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security. “The U.S. and China will continue to disagree on fundamental issues, but should use direct dialogue to air these concerns and reduce the misunderstandings and misperceptions that are holding up cooperation on global climate change and pandemic treatment and recovery.” Beyond the specific areas of progress made, the dialogue process itself helped to bridge the gap between the two vastly different political systems to enable progress on bilateral and transnational mutual interests “With the absence of these diplomatic tools, the U.S. and China have moved from an era of dialogue to an era of monologue,” said Daniel Jasper, Asia Advocacy Coordinator for the American Friends Service Committee. “What we found was that China kept the vast majority of their commitments within the process and that the personal relationships built during the dialogue were invaluable at moving policy. We must revive this successful tool of diplomacy—our future depends on it.” [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/NCAFP_China_Engagement_final_Sept-2021.pdf) [Click Here to View the S&ED Report Database](https://ncafp.org/resources/strategic-economic-dialogue-databases/) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: NCAFP 2019 Trip to Northeast Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafp-2019-trip-to-northeast-asia/) **Published:** January 9, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **NCAFP Trip to Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo and Seoul: November 4 – 20, 2019** By Mark Tokola January 9, 2020 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) made its annual fact-finding trip from November 4 to November 20, 2019, to Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo, and Seoul. The delegation was led by NCAFP President Susan M. Elliott and included: Susan A. Thornton, [Paul Tsai China Center at Yale Law School](https://law.yale.edu/china-center) & NCAFP; Raymond F. Burghardt, [Pacific Century Institute](https://www.pacificcenturyinst.org/); James P. Zumwalt (Tokyo), [Japan-America Society of Washington, D.C](https://jaswdc.org/). & [Sasakawa Peace Foundation](https://www.spf.org/en/), USA; Mark Tokola, [Korea Economic Institute of America](https://keia.org/); Ryan L. Hass (Taipei and Tokyo), [Brookings Institution](https://www.brookings.edu/); and Rorry Daniels, NCAFP. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/NCAFP-2019-Trip-Report_FINAL.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: A U.S.-Japan-ROK Track II Conference](https://ncafp.org/resources/a-u-s-japan-republic-of-korea-trilateral-track-ii-conference/) **Published:** January 9, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **A U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea Trilateral Track II Conference** By Rorry Daniels January 9, 2020 On November 16, 2019, the NCAFP co-organized with the [Japan Forum on International Relations (JFIR)](https://www.jfir.or.jp/en/) a U.S.-Japan-ROK Track II conference with delegations from the NCAFP, JFIR and [the Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA)](https://www.knda.go.kr/usr/main/main.do;jsessionid=S5AxlRYaj65vGdC10Pf6u8gQrIyaFUjbUyEepBfl.knda11). Despite the difficult moment in which this meeting took place—in which Japan-ROK relations were described as the worst since the end of World War II—the heads of delegation emphasized the common values and interests shared by the three countries and the need to work together to preserve peace and stability. At the outset, it was put forth and roundly agreed by participants not to argue an official position but to use the flexibility inherent in the Track II process to imagine a path forward. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/US-Japan-ROK-report_FINAL.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: U.S.-China Dynamics in a Global Crisis](https://ncafp.org/resources/us-china-dynamics-in-a-global-crisis-opportunities-and-constraints/) **Published:** April 21, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **U.S.-China Dynamics in a Global Crisis: Opportunities and Constraints** By Rorry Daniels April 21, 2020 #### **Executive Summary** During the week of April 6, 2020, the NCAFP convened a set of video teleconferences (VTCs) with a small group of authoritative participants from the US and China—both senior scholars and former officials—to discuss challenges and potential opportunities in bilateral relations. The emergence of the COVID-19 global pandemic and accompanying worldwide economic crisis, which would normally be an occasion for bilateral and multilateral coordination and cooperation on a global humanitarian challenge, has not engendered more communication between the US and China on these issues, but has in fact, exacerbated rhetorical sparring and mutual suspicion and hostility. Finding avenues for coordination and enhancing communication is in the best interests of both countries and the world. Lives may well depend on the ability of the two sides to minimize conflict and maximize cooperation. The top priority, therefore, should be sharing and adapting best practices to manage medical care for the infected, to slow or stop the spread of the disease, and to restart and maintain global economic activity in this period of disruption. Enhancing direct communication at all levels—government to government, expert to expert, and people to people—is urgent and necessary to capture important relevant experiences and to secure needed materials and capabilities. Dissecting the mistakes and missteps of policy reactions to the initial outbreak is important in the long-term, but it cannot be accurately assessed until the virus is under control worldwide. There are still many unknowns. The perceived gloating of each side over the other’s difficulties in meeting this crisis has already damaged public perceptions in each country and distracted from the obvious priorities of fighting this deadly disease and stemming the bleeding of our collective prosperity. There is a high risk of a further downward spiral in bilateral relations amid this crisis and the difficult domestic political environments in each country, but what we do now may establish new boundaries for bilateral cooperation in the coming decades. It is unclear if the necessary shift in mindset to include coordination and cooperation within a broader framework of strategic competition is achievable without sustained commitment and direction from the highest levels of government. These conversations occurred shortly after a phone call between President Trump and President Xi that seemed to at least temporarily slow a sharp downward trend in rhetoric sparked by the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the first quarter of 2020. However, since then, the finger-pointing and blame game has intensified and efforts toward international collaboration have been less than successful. Given the historic nature of the current moment, participants identified the following bold moves to meet these unprecedented challenges: - President Trump and President Xi should convene the first-ever US-China virtual leaders’ summit, to prepare for the next G20 leaders meeting, by directing working-level coordination on the following topics:a - Resolving disruptions in the global supply chain of essential materials and equipment; - Research, production and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine; and - Coordinating medical and financial aid to the developing world. - A virtual summit could also reaffirm existing commitments in bilateral relations, including the implementation of the phase one trade deal and the US one-China policy, as well as establish a commitment to an after-action review of the initial policy responses to the pandemic. - A summit will not resolve the myriad competing national interests in US-China relations, nor does it need to do so. But it would be immensely helpful for each side to self-identify and announce respective commitments to shared goals, such as recovery of the global economy. - Both sides should operate on the principle of “no surprises.” The goal should not be to dismiss or ignore strategic competition but to preserve room for simultaneous coordination or cooperation by conducting competitive activities in a transparent manner. - - China should identify and connect a counterpart to the [US INDOPACOM](https://www.pacom.mil/About-USINDOPACOM/USPACOM-Area-of-Responsibility/) Commander to facilitate communications on military issues. - Both sides can make use of existing sister cities relationships to assign responsibilities for assisting new outbreak areas or hotspots. This could also help unblock bottlenecks in the medical equipment and services supply chains. - Should both locations be successful in managing their respective outbreaks, the pairs can team up to “adopt” other countries or localities around the world, creating a global web of cooperative grassroots exchanges. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Final-04-21-NCAFP_US-China-Report_April-2020.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: A U.S.-Russia Bilateral Conference](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-u-s-russia-bilateral-conference/) **Published:** July 22, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **A U.S.-Russia Bilateral Conference** By Stephen Whittaker July 22, 2020 On July 13, 2020, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) and the [Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC)](https://russiancouncil.ru/en/) convened their fifth meeting since 2015, their first in a bilateral format. As U.S.-Russia relations continue to ebb toward a low point, and are seemingly worsened by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, continuing a dialogue with colleagues overseas is of paramount importance. Having previously engaged in a recurring trilateral conference addressing relations among the U.S., Japan and Russia, the leadership of both the NCAFP and RIAC perceived a critical need to confront core issues in the U.S.-Russia relationship, and bring attention to them amid mutual unease. Comments and presentations by participants largely addressed three major themes: a definite state of confrontation between the U.S. and Russia; the question of shifting global polarity; and how the relationship can progress in the short term. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/NCAFP-RIAC-2020-US-Russia-Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: Assessing the Western Balkans in 2020](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-assessing-the-western-balkans-in-2020/) **Published:** October 16, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Assessing the Western Balkans in 2020: Summary of a Roundtable Discussion** By Stephen Whittaker October 16, 2020 In 2018, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), in cooperation with the [East West Institute](https://www.eastwest.ngo/), published an analytical report and set of policy recommendations for the future of U.S. policy vis-à-vis the Western Balkans.  While some prescriptions laid out by this report have come to pass, many continue to require careful attention from policymakers both in the United States and Europe.  As such, the deepened uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic and the continued interference of malicious external actors in the domestic affairs of Western Balkan nations, the NCAFP, in partnership with the [Nizami Ganjavi International Center](https://nizamiganjavi-ic.org/) and the Foundation Shared Societies and Values Sarajevo believes it is a particularly apt moment to reexamine and assess the path forward for the region. Coming together on September 16, 2020, a panel of distinguished former officials from the United States and the Western Balkans sought to chart out 2 key questions.  First, how do these officials view the ‘state of play’ in the region given a series of recent developments?  Second, what policy recommendations do they propose to address concerns raised? [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/NCAFP-NGIC-Roundtable-Summary.pdf) [Click Here to Watch the Discussion](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iKW41E3tdY) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: Development and Investment in the Balkans](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-development-and-investment-in-the-balkans/) **Published:** November 30, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Development, Investment, and the Western Balkans: Summary of a Roundtable Discussion** *By Stephen Whittaker* *November 30, 2020* On November 19, 2020 the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), [Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC)](https://nizamiganjavi-ic.org/), and Foundation Shared Societies and Values Sarajevo (FSSV) convened as part of a series of targeted conversations with the aim of examining critical issues facing the Western Balkans.  Following onto the success of a public discussion held in September 2020, the organizers felt it would be appropriate to focus on reactions to the [European Commission’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans](https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_1811) (published October 2020), and the expansion of the so-called ‘Mini Schengen’ zone. Both have gained significant buy-in and external support, including ‘Mini Schengen’s’ prominent role in the economic normalization agreements signed in Washington in September 2020.  Furthermore, each has the potential to further regional ambitions toward EU accession. Not without detractors, both the EU’s new plan, and efforts to expand ‘Mini Schengen’ spur concerns about the creation of parallel, rather than complementary structures vis-à-vis the EU.  Convened to address this key concern, an invited panel of distinguished former officials from the United States and the region zeroed in on whether these developments chart an accession course like that of the Visegrád Group;  major economic concerns that still need to be addressed; and how can the EU, United States and other external actors continue to provide sustainable support to the regional economy. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Economic-Development-Investment-and-the-Western-Balkans.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Opportunities for Transatlantic Peacebuilding in Northern Ireland](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-opportunities-for-transatlantic-peacebuilding-in-northern-ireland/) **Published:** July 11, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Opportunities for Transatlantic Peacebuilding in Northern Ireland** *With Emma DeSouza, Daniel Holder, Charmain Jones, and Eileen Weir Moderated by Susan M. Elliott July 20, 2023* In the spring of 2023, the international community gathered together to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement, a diplomatic triumph that resolved decades of conflict in Northern Ireland. The agreement put an end to significant sectarian violence by establishing a power-sharing system, and installing a commitment to political and social equality for all of the region’s inhabitants. However, Brexit and recent political events have significantly threatened the political stability established by the Good Friday Agreement, and have caused substantial socio-economic friction in the region. This friction has alarmed political leaders in Northern Ireland, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and in the region’s strongest partner, the United States. In light of the momentum following these Good Friday Agreement anniversary events, the NCAFP visited Northern Ireland in April 2023 to meet with political leaders and grassroots peacebuilding organizations and hear about their concerns in the post-Brexit political landscape. The organization published its findings in a recent [report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NCAFP-Transatlantic-Peacebuilding-Report-May-2023-1.pdf), and has convened a panel of experts from Northern Ireland to highlight some of the greatest political and socio-economic challenges in the region today. ##### Featured Panelists: **Emma DeSouza** *Founder and Co-Facilitator,* Civic Initiative **Daniel Holder** *Director,* Committee on the Administration of Justice **Charmain Jones** *Women’s Spaces Co-ordinator,* Northern Ireland Rural Women’s Network **Eileen Weir**  *Network Coordinator,* Shankill Women’s Centre **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** *President & CEO,* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjiMow8kZRI&ab_channel=NationalCommitteeonAmericanForeignPolicy) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: Reflections and Possibilities: The 40th Anniversary of U.S.-China Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/reflections-and-possibilities-us-china-emerging-leaders-dialogue-report/) **Published:** January 1, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Reflections and Possibilities: Commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Establishment of U.S.-China Diplomatic Relations** *By Juliet Lee August 28, 2019* The NCAFP, in cooperation with the [China Institute of International Studies (CIIS)](https://www.ciis.org.cn/english/), hosted a US-China emerging leaders Track II dialogue. American and Chinese participants reflected on the last 40 years of US-China relations, and while participants agreed that more dialogue and cooperation on common interests were needed, there was a mix of both optimism and pessimism on what could be done in the near and long-term to help get bilateral relations back on track. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/NCAFP-Report_US-China-YL-2019_FINAL.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China --- ### [APPLY: Northern Ireland Next-Generation Policy Specialists](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-northern-ireland-next-generation-policy-specialists/) **Published:** September 16, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program: Next Generation Policy Specialists** *The application period is closed.* **Application Submission Period:**  August 8, 2024 – September 16, 2024 **Notification of Acceptance:**  October 28, 2024 **Belfast Introductory Meeting:** December 2024 **New York Concluding Conference:** May 2025 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) is accepting applications from individuals to join an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on policy issues in Northern Ireland. The program is designed to help emerging community leaders to  translate their ideas into policy recommendations and to develop public communications skills. In addition to peer workshops and skills training, each Emerging Leader will be matched with a mentor from the NCAFP’s network of senior-level experts and former policymakers to further inform the development of the final product, a short policy paper. The program will consist of a series of virtual roundtable discussions with working group peers to workshop their ideas, review papers, and receive short training on the art of writing for policy makers and other communications/public speaking skills; and two one-on-one mentor sessions with a senior policy practitioner. There will be one in-person orientation in Belfast in early December 2024, and an in-person conference in New York City in May 2025. Throughout the project, Emerging Leaders will write a policy paper on their topic of interest which will include policy recommendations. We will be selecting ten (10) next-generation leaders and experts from Northern Ireland. **Applications must include the following:** - Resume - Letter of interest - Short bio, no more than 300 words - A one-page outline of the research topic related to policy issues in Northern Ireland on which the group member will develop policy recommendations. Preference will be given to topics related to socio-economic community development, education, human rights, as well as women, peace and security. ##### Qualifications & Expectations Preferred applicants are early to mid-career professionals with either a minimum of 3 years’ experience in policy development on regional issues within Northern Ireland, or a minimum of 3 years’ experience in community development and [leadership](https://ncafp.org/about-us/leadership/). Participants must commit to participating in all required virtual meetings, to take place between December through June 2025 (unless excused by the organizers for unavoidable conflicts), and both in-person meetings in Belfast and New York City At the conclusion of the roundtables, Emerging Leaders will write a policy paper for publication in an edited volume, which will be presented at a concluding conference in New York City. **To apply, please complete the application found here: <https://forms.gle/3RguD9zXDLcxEgUF8>** **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2024 --- ### [AWARDS: The NCAFP Celebrates 49 Years of Diplomacy in Action](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-ncafp-celebrates-49-years-of-diplomacy-in-action/) **Published:** November 16, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** On Tuesday, November 14th, the NCAFP hosted its 2023 Gala Celebration at the Yale Club of New York City. The organization brought together over 200 luminaries from the worlds of politics, finance, academia, and the arts to celebrate the organization’s 49 years of diplomacy in action. The NCAFP was thrilled to present the Hans J. Morgenthau Award to **Admiral James Stavridis, USN (ret.),** the George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service to **Ambassador (ret.) Marie Yovanovitch**, the 21st Century Leader Award to **Mr. Terrell Jermaine Starr**, and the William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award to **Mr. Kieran McLoughlin**. The evening began with a presentation of the the 21st Century Leader Award to **Mr. Terrell Jermaine Starr**, Founder and Host of *Black Diplomats.* Mr. Starr travelled to New York City from Ukraine, where he is currently based and covering the war. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/361A8476-578x453.jpg)*Mr. Terrell Jermaine Starr addresses the crowd.* The NCAFP then presented its George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service to Ambassador (ret.) Marie Yovanovitch, the former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, Armenia, and the Kyrgyz Republic. Shed noted: “Our global leadership depends on the power of our example and the consistency of our purpose. In this increasingly dangerous world, our shining city on the hill, as Ronald Regan used to say, has lost some of its luster. There is danger, but there is also opportunity. If we remain true to our values, both internally and externally, pursue our interests in an enlightened way and leverage our alliances to address our challenges together, in these endeavors, diplomacy should be the first stop, and hopefully it should be the last stop, as well.” [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/361A8507-557x453.jpg)](https://ncafp.org/the-ncafp-celebrates-49-years-of-diplomacy-in-action/361a8507/) *Ambassador Yovanovitch with NCAFP President & CEO (and longtime friend), Ambassador Susan Elliott.* The evening continued with **Ms. Loretta Brennan Glucksman**, Chairman Emeritus of the Ireland Funds, who presented the William J. Flynn Initaitive for Peace Award to **Mr. Kieran McLoughlin**, Managing Director & Co-Founder of VentureWave Capital Ltd. Both Loretta and Kieran highlighted the the important role that Irish-Americans like William “Bill” Flynn played in brokering the peace process in Northern Ireland. [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/361A8580-546x453.jpg)](https://ncafp.org/the-ncafp-celebrates-49-years-of-diplomacy-in-action/361a8580/) *Ms. Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Chairman Emeritus of the Ireland Funds, reflects on the past before presenting the William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award to Mr. Kieran McLoughlin.* The final award of the evening was presented by **Mr. Elliot Ackerman** to **Admiral James Stavridis, USN (ret.)**. He noted, “If we are to create security in this world, we will not deliver it from the barrel of a gun.” ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/361A8690-553x453.jpg)*Admiral Stavridis accepting the Hans J. Morgenthau Award.* Following the presentation of awards, the four honorees participated in a moderated discussion about the importance of transatlantic cooperation in a time of increasing security challenges. The conversation was moderated by the evening’s host, Ms. Jacqueline Adams, Emmy Award-Winning former CBS News Correspondent and NCAFP Trustee. ## [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/361A8713-650x453.jpg)](https://ncafp.org/the-ncafp-celebrates-49-years-of-diplomacy-in-action/361a8713/) The NCAFP would like to thank each of our honorees, as well as our incredible network of members, supporters, and corporate partners! **To view the gala program**, **[please click here](https://www.streamy.cloud/ncafp.html)**. **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Media **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2023 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: "Getting Russia Right" by Dr. Thomas Graham](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-getting-russia-right-by-dr-thomas-graham/) **Published:** October 20, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **“Getting Russia Right” by Dr. Thomas Graham** *With Thomas E. Graham* *Moderated by Frank Wisner* *October 10, 2023 This program was a George D. Schwab Foreign Policy Briefing* On October 10, 2023, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted Thomas E. Graham, distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, to celebrate his latest book, *Getting Russia Right*, at the Century Association. In conversation with Ambassador (ret) Frank Wisner, Dr. Graham provided a historical and contextual framework on how and why America’s relationship with Russia was wrongly misguided in its expectations and attitudes. Dr. Graham has identified three major post-Soviet occurrences that spawned the current challenges between the U.S. and modern Russia. First, a profound mismatch existed between what national progress meant for the Euro-Atlantic Community and that of the former Soviet Republic. Dr. Graham explained that although “the U.S. had the best of intentions” of introducing Russia into a free market liberal economy, the expert community failed to agree and to acknowledge how Russia’s past foreign policy shaped its fraught experience with the West. The second issue was the inconsistency of U.S. foreign policy that was handed down from administration to administration.  Each American president carried a different portfolio of priorities that often left relations with Russia in worse shape than what was inherited from before. This was not the fault of one single president, but it was more indicative of how America failed to develop a long-term engagement policy. The final misstep was the earnestness of the U.S. to show a “win” in regards to the Cold War. During the 1990s’s optimistic expansion of globalization and later of NATO, U.S. officials hedged on Russia accepting democratic reforms and being more open to neo-liberal ideologies. Despite the overall trend of the period, Russia was never comfortable relinquishing its past political systems or position as a major global power. Dr. Graham also offered salient remarks on the war in Ukraine and Vladimir Putin himself.  Dr. Graham contends that although the U.S. and NATO have demonstrated resolve and unity on Ukraine, an exit strategy must be presented to Putin or he will be fixed on destroying Ukraine’s sovereignty. With the absence of such a framework, Russia’s behavior is driving the current narrative on the world stage. Nevertheless, Dr. Graham recommends that Washington should establish channels of confidence with Moscow that are outside of public criticism and away from domestic political scrutiny. Confidential communications could broker a potential ceasefire for Kyiv; to attain this objective, however, the U.S. needs to articulate what it wants from Russia and be ready to deliver on its word. *Getting Russia Right*, discloses America’s misguided and frequent hubristic efforts towards Post-Soviet Russia. It helps readers understand how Russia thinks, what brought our relations to this sour juncture, and why Vladimir Putin acts in the manner as he does. The Honorable **Jeffrey R. Shafer**, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the NCAFP, provided the welcoming and closing remarks for the program. This program was proudly part of the *George D. Schwab Foreign Policy Briefing* series*.* Books were available for signing and purchase. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [WATCH: Next Steps for U.S.-Korea Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-next-steps-for-u-s-korea-relations/) **Published:** November 1, 2024 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Next Steps for U.S.-Korea Relations: Key Diplomatic and Economic Developments** *October 4, 2024* *Co-hosted with [The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/policy-and-corporate-programs/item/1866)* *and East Asia Foundation Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* This special conference on U.S.-Korea relations was produced in partnership with the East Asia Foundation (EAF) and The Korea Society. This forum provides a venue for expert discussion on the security, diplomatic and economic dimensions of the U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship, and includes a bipartisan coalition from Korea’s National Assembly. The program commences with welcoming remarks from former South Korean Foreign Minister **Kim Sung-hwan**, Korea Society president and CEO **Tom Byrne**, and NCAFP president and CEO Ambassador (Ret.) **Susan M. Elliott**. The security and diplomacy panel features critical insights from the National Assembly Member **Kim Young-bae**, Vice Chair of the Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, Dean of Sogang University’s Graduate School of International Studies **Kim Jae-chun**, and Director of the Korea Program at The Stimson Center **Jenny Town**. This session is moderated by Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at NCAFP **Susan Thornton**, who retired from the State Department after a 28-year diplomatic career focused primarily on East and Central Asia. The economics and trade panel features National Assembly Member **Choi Hyung-du**, Vice Chair of the Science, ICT, Broadcasting, and Communications Committee., former ROK Trade Minister **Yoo Myung-hee**, and Albright Stonebridge Group Senior Counselor in the East Asia & Pacific practice **Tami Overby**. This session will be led by Korea Society President and CEO **Tom Byrne**. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [AWARDS: The NCAFP Celebrated its First Virtual Gala](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafp-first-virtual-gala-2020/) **Published:** November 20, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## The NCAFP Celebrated its First Virtual Gala *November 17, 2020 Moderated by Jacqueline Adams* On November 17th, 2020 the NCAFP held its first ever Virtual Gala, honoring the work and legacy of Hans J. Morgenthau and presenting his namesake award to Dr. Robert M. Gates, former Secretary of Defense. Dr. Gates joins a long list of iconic and accomplished individuals who have received this prestigious award including Margaret Thatcher, General Colin Powell, and most recently, U.S. President-Elect, Joe Biden. Ms. [Jacqueline Adams](https://ncafp.org/team/jacqueline-adams/), Emmy Award winning CBS News correspondent and the evening’s emcee, held an in-depth and robust question and answer session with Dr. Gates following his awarding. #### ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-18-at-10.50.12-AM-1140x527-1.jpg) Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Henry A. Kissinger, Former Secretary of State, and past recipient of the Hans J. Morgenthau award. Dr. Kissinger spoke of Morgenthau’s significant contributions to American foreign policy and congratulated Dr. Gates on his own accomplishments and contributions to the field. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-19-at-3.50.36-PM.jpg) The National Committee on American Foreign Policy would like to extend its warmest thanks and deepest gratitude to all those who attended and supported the great success of our first Virtual Gala. Opening Remarks **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** President & Chief Executive Officer National Committee on American Foreign Policy Special Remarks **Dr. Henry A. Kissinger** Chairman, Kissinger Associates, Inc & Former Secretary of State **Dr. Robert M. Gates** Former Secretary of Defense & Director of the Central Intelligence Agency Presented By **The Honorable Jeffrey R. Shafer** Chairman of the Board National Committee on American Foreign Policy Question & Answer Moderated By **Ms. Jacqueline Adams** Emmy Award-winning Former CBS Correspondent [Click Here to Read the Journal](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Gala-Evening-Journal-Updated-on-11_17_2020-2.pdf) **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2020 --- ### [AWARDS: NCAFP 2020 Virtual Gala](https://ncafp.org/resources/save-the-date-ncafp-2020-virtual-gala/) **Published:** September 22, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Gala-Web-Photo-1140x428-1.jpg) ## **Celebrating the late Hans J. Morgenthau, Founder of the NCAFP and Honoring the service and achievements of Dr. Robert M. Gates** *November 17, 2020* **Dr. Robert M. Gates,** *Former Secretary of Defense &* *Director of the Central Intelligence Agency* With Opening Remarks by **Dr. Henry A. Kissinger**, *Chairman,* Kissinger Associates, Inc & Former Secretary of State Hosted by **Ms. Jacqueline Adams**, *Emmy Award-winning Former CBS Correspondent*  *and Co-Author of “A Blessing*“ **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Media **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2020 --- ### [Susan A. Thornton](https://ncafp.org/resources/susan-a-thornton/) **Published:** February 26, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ***Susan A. Thornton ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Susan-A.-Thornton-362x453.jpg) Project Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security*** Susan A. Thornton is Project Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the NCAFP, Visiting Lecturer in Law at Yale Law School and Senior Fellow at the Paul Tsai China Center. In 2018, she retired from the State Department after a 28-year diplomatic career focused primarily on East and Central Asia. In leadership roles in Washington, Thornton worked on China and Korea policy, including stabilizing relations with Taiwan, the U.S.-China Cyber Agreement, the Paris Climate Accord and led a successful negotiation in Pyongyang for monitoring of the Agreed Framework on denuclearization. In her 18 years of overseas postings in Central Asia, Russia, the Caucasus and China, Thornton’s leadership furthered U.S. interests and influence and maintained programs and mission morale in a host of difficult operating environments. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, she was among the first State Department Fascell Fellows and served from 1989–90 at the U.S. Consulate in Leningrad. She was also a researcher at the Foreign Policy Institute from 1987–91. Thornton holds degrees from the National Defense University’s Eisenhower School, the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and Bowdoin College. She speaks Russian, Mandarin Chinese and French, is a member of numerous professional associations and is on the Board of Trustees for the Eurasia Foundation. **Archive:** 1 ARCHIVE POSTS, Event Archive ALL-2019 --- ### [REPORT: The Taiwan Strait Needs Calm](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-taiwan-strait-needs-calm/) **Published:** September 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **The Taiwan Strait Needs Calm, Communication, and Consistency** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *July 2024* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) held a Track II discussion on cross-Taiwan Strait relations in early June 2024. Scholars and experts from all sides assessed the state of relations following Lai Ching-te’s inauguration speech and the subsequent two-day PLA exercises conducted around Taiwan. Despite the uncertainty of the next six months, participants from all sides put forward recommendations for managing cross-Strait relations in the current difficult political and media environments: - Resuming cross-Strait dialogue is critical for creating space for de-escalation, and Beijing and Taipei should resume dialogue and cooperation between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) as soon as possible. - Beijing and Taipei should restore cross-Strait tourism, promote cultural and artistic exchanges, and increase academic exchanges among scholars across the Taiwan Strait. - As the U.S. presidential election approaches, American participants urged enhanced communication and predictability on all sides to prevent unintended crises. It is necessary to separate noise from signal and to preserve space for diplomacy. Read the NCAFP’s latest conference report, “The Taiwan Strait Needs Calm, Communication, and Consistency,” to learn more about additional policy recommendations and observations from this Track II dialogue. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NCAFP-Cross-Strait-Report-2024.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: Six Parties Minus One:Grappling with Security Tensions](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-six-parties-minus-onegrappling-with-security-tensions/) **Published:** September 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Six Parties Minus One: Grappling with Security Tensions On and Around the Korean Peninsula** *By Susan A. Thornton and Nia Williams* *July 2024* In May 2024, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted a 5-Party discussion, convening experts from the People’s Republic of China, Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Russia, and the U.S, five out of the six countries involved in past North Korea nuclear negotiations. Participants acknowledged that all parties face momentous obstacles to cooperation and achieving stability in the region, but endeavored to explore and propose creative approaches for resuming engagement with the DPRK and managing a volatile constellation of issues and relations: - In the absence of engagement and amid an increase of military deterrent measures, the DPRK continues to expand its nuclear weapons program and the likelihood of miscalculations and misunderstandings is increasing. - Given the complicated geopolitical environment and established evidence that engagement with North Korea acts as a constraint on provocations and crisis, participants supported efforts to engage the DPRK in multilateral discussions. - While denuclearization should remain the ultimate goal of talks with the DPRK, the process will be protracted. Parties should pursue interim steps that include risk reduction, crisis management, and disarmament and arms control mechanisms. - Participants cited the need to avoid the “blocification” of the region, pitting the U.S., ROK, and Japan against China, DPRK, and Russia. Such Cold War rhetoric obscures more than it reveals, narrows space for diplomacy, and obstructs cooperation on issues that threaten the common interests of all countries. Read the NCAFP’s latest report, “Six Parties Minus One: Grappling with Security Tensions On and Around the Korean Peninsula,” to learn more about additional policy recommendations and observations from this Track II dialogue. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NCAFP-Quint-Report-2024.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Europe, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: Reframing US-DPRK Nuclear Diplomacy](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-9/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Reframing US-DPRK Nuclear Diplomacy** *With Darcie Draudt* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* Dr. Darcie Draudt sits down with Susan Thornton and discusses why the US needs to reframe its bilateral diplomacy with North Korea, and what steps should be taken to achieve multiple long-term goals. [Click to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Sn3xHWRVgKIpZucYdZ1O9?si=X8jlK0NIR5C-rozqsxcQYg) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: Four-Party Talks 2.0: End of War and Denuclearization Achievable on the Korean Peninsula](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-8/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Four-Party Talks 2.0: End of War and Denuclearization Achievable on the Korean Peninsula** *With Jarett Fisher* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* Jarret Fisher, a student at the Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), sits down with FAPS Project Director Susan Thornton and makes the case for an end of war declaration and renewed Four-Party Talks between the US, DPRK, ROK and China. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/05tkFRrThLd6PqfLV77GwR?si=xl9y0YskQFOtJ9iE7PeNoA) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: After Moon: The Future of South Korea’s New Southern Policy](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-7/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **After Moon: The Future of South Korea’s New Southern Policy** *With Alexander Hynd* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* Alexander M. Hynd, PhD candidate in international relations at UNSW Sydney, discusses with Susan Thornton why he thinks South Korea’s New Southern Policy should be continued in some form in the next administration, especially given the importance of Southeast Asia. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/4skGcp7kyz04MmqWiC5LEy?si=RvrK4lKDS42Tt8AUKFDAMA) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: Why ‘Nuclear Sharing’ Will Not Help South Korea Counter North Korea’s Nuclear Threats](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-6/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Why ‘Nuclear Sharing’ Will Not Help South Korea Counter North Korea’s Nuclear Threats** *With Kyungwon Suh* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* Kyungwon Suh, Ph.D. candidate in political science at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University, chats with Susan Thornton and assesses the various calls for a US-ROK nuclear sharing arrangement, and why such an arrangement would not necessarily help alleviate South Korea’s concerns about North Korea’s nuclear threats. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/0bGtwVvlfkTiHgKud493Ls?si=_KwgBSESRL-KyJ68Y_YTWA) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: When Coercion Fails, Then What? An Analysis of Chinese Balancing Responses to THAAD](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-5/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **When Coercion Fails, Then What? An Analysis of Chinese Balancing Responses to THAAD Deployment in the Republic of Korea** *With Maximillian Ernst* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* In this episode, Maximilian Ernst, PhD candidate at the Brussels School of Governance, sits down with Susan Thornton and examines Chinese economic coercion, specifically its response to the US deployment of THAAD in the ROK, concluding that China’s attempts at economic coercion demonstrate Chinese anxieties, rather than strength. Maximilian Ernst, PhD candidate at the Brussels School of Governance, sits down with Susan Thornton and looks at Chinese economic coercion, specifically its response to the US deployment of THAAD in the ROK, concluding that China’s attempts at economic coercion demonstrate Chinese anxieties, rather than strength. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/75670VG91o7M7zPekhFwQm?si=lqoyiBLzReKo_3mK43VYgg) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: Achieving Strategic Coordination Among US Allies in Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-4/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Achieving Strategic Coordination Among US Allies in Asia: A Case Study of Japan, the ROK, and the South China Sea Disputes** *With Shuqi Wang* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* In analyzing how and why US allies in the Asia Pacific might respond differently to particular security issues, Shuqi Wang, PhD candidate at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, focuses particularly on Japan and the ROK’s respective responses to the South China Sea disputes, and as a result, how the US should strengthen alliance relations. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/7xNRuVHRN26Hbgw3GZNwmY?si=5dcd7a82f3e14449) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: Strengthening US-South Korea Cooperation on Semiconductor Supply Chain](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-3/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Strengthening US-South Korea Cooperation on Semiconductor Supply Chain Resilience and Innovation** *With Jonathan Corrado* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* Jonathan Corrado, Policy Director at The Korea Society, speaks with Susan Thornton and details why it is important for the US and the ROK, as global leaders in the industry, to forge a tech alliance and expand cooperation on semiconductor supply chain resilience and innovation. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/3meZ1mifVxMIvMJ9E2L4ba?si=ByxQATYoRd-EuUydN2vZOg) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: Vietnam’s Rise as a Hub for Electrical Machinery Supply Chain](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-pocast-series-episode-2/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Vietnam’s Rise as a Hub for Electrical Machinery Supply Chain: Implications for the United States and South Korea** *With Sea Young Kim* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* Sea Young (Sarah) Kim discusses how and why the United States and South Korea should expand cooperation with Vietnam on electrical machinery trade while managing competition and supply chain interdependence. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/67sMvMmPYvbEQJhuenBh9n?si=b606de3186cc499f) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: US Legislative Branch Engagement with North Korea](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-1/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **US Legislative Branch Engagement with North Korea** *With Matthew Abbott* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2021* Speaking with Susan Thornton, Project Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security, Matt Abbott highlights the need for a whole-of-government approach to US-North Korea policy and recommends several steps the US legislative branch can take to promote more effective policymaking and engagement with North Korea. Matt Abbott, Director of Government and Diplomatic Programs at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, highlights the need for a whole-of-government approach to US-North Korea policy and recommends several steps the US legislative branch can take to promote more effective policymaking and engagement with North Korea. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/3meZ1mifVxMIvMJ9E2L4ba?si=ByxQATYoRd-EuUydN2vZOg) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [AWARDS: A Special Pre-Gala Discussion](https://ncafp.org/resources/join-us-for-a-special-gala-pre-program/) **Published:** October 20, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Hans J. Morgenthau and Foreign Policy Giants of the 20th Century: A Special Pre-Gala Discussion** *With John Delury and Nicholas Thompson* *November 13, 2020* In advance of this year’s Virtual Gala, please join a conversation with two recipients of the NCAFP’s 21st Century Leader Award, Professor John Delury and Nick Thompson, as they discuss the legacy of Hans J. Morgenthau and other foreign policy giants of the 20th Century. How can the next administration look to foreign policy lessons of the past and apply them to today’s world? This event was part of the NCAFP’s 2020 Virtual Gala and was open to all Gala ticket and table purchasers. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YMsBqPnRZE) **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2020 --- ### [AWARDS: The NCAFP 2022 Virtual Gala: Evening Journal](https://ncafp.org/resources/save-the-date-ncafp-virtual-gala-2022/) **Published:** September 14, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The NCAFP 2022 Virtual Gala: Evening Journal** *November 2, 2022*  *Master of Ceremonies by Jacqueline Adams* The Global Business Leadership Award: **Audrey Choi** *Senior Advisor and Former CSO*, Morgan Stanley The George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service: **Ambassador (ret.) Jon M. Huntsman. Jr.** *Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia*, Singapore, and China The 21st Century Leader Award: **Shalonda Spencer** *Former Executive Director*, Women of Color Advancing Peace and Security Master of Ceremonies: **Jacqueline Adams**: Emmy-Award Winning Former CBS Correspondent and Co-Author of A Blessing [Click Here to Read the Journal](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/DIGITAL-COPY-Evening-Journal-2022-FINAL-1.pdf) **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2022 --- ### [AWARDS: The NCAFP 2021 Virtual Gala](https://ncafp.org/resources/save-the-date-ncafp-virtual-gala-2021/) **Published:** November 3, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The NCAFP 2021 Virtual Gala and Evening Journal** *November 10, 2021 Moderated by Jacqueline Adams* **Ms. Jacqueline Adams**, Emmy Award-Winning Former CBS Correspondent Master of Ceremonies Opening Remarks by **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott**, *President & CEO*, National Committee On American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), and remarks from the Honorable Jeffrey R. Shafer Chairman of the Board, NCAFP 21st Century Leader Award: **Ms. Lauren Buitta**, *Founder & CEO*, Girl Security Presented by **Dr. Marisa Porges**, *Head Of School*, The Baldwin School The William J. Flynn Initiative For Peace Award: **Mr. Shaun Kelly**, *Former Global COO*, KPMG Presented by **Brendan R. Mcguire, Esq**., *Trustee*, NCAFP The George F. Kennan Award For Distinguished Public Service: **Admiral (ret.) Michelle Howard**, United States Navy Four-Star Admiral Presented by **Ms. Grace Kennan Warnecke**, *Chairman Emeritus*, NCAFP [Click Here to Read the Journal](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/2021-Gala-Evening-Journal-4.pdf) [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7B0clU0RyY) **Content Type:** Annual Gala, Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: South Korea's Greater Engagement with NATO and Europe](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-south-koreas-greater-engagement-with-nato-and-europe-with-francesca-frassineti/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **South Korea’s Greater Engagement with NATO and Europe: Becoming a Reliable Security Partner Through a Thriving Defense Industry** *With Francesca Frassineti* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* December 2022. Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Dr. Francesca Frassineti to discuss how South Korea is moving to establish itself as a more active participant in Indo-Pacific security and the ways it can achieve this. She discusses what contributions the Yoon administration is capable of making to regional security, and how deepened partnerships with European states can advance that end. Francesca FRASSINETI is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Political and Social Sciences at the University of Bologna, she teaches History of Contemporary East Asia at Ca’ Foscari University Venice, and is an Associate Research Fellow in the Asia Centre at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI) in Milan. In addition to being an Emerging Leader at the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), Francesca has been a Fellow for the Korea Foundation Next Generation Policy Expert Network with Chatham House. Her research mostly focuses on the domestic, foreign, and security policies of the Korean Peninsula, EU-East Asia relations, and public diplomacy. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/6cdGtPj2NCjN4cII7yLK8N) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: Humanitarian (Re)engagement: Supporting North Korean Human Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-humanitarian-reengagement-supporting-north-korean-human-security-in-the-age-of-covid-with-nazanin-zadeh-cummings/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Humanitarian (Re)engagement: Supporting North Korean Human Security in the Age of COVID** *With Nazanin Zadeh-Cummings* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with Australia-based 2022 Emerging Leader, Dr. Nazanin Zadeh-Cummings to discuss the current state of humanitarian aid and support for North Koreans, the effects the COVID-19 has had on such aid, and how states and begin to approach re-engagement. Nazanin ZADEH-CUMMINGS is a Senior Lecturer in Humanitarian Studies in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, (Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia) and the Associate Director of Research at the Centre for Humanitarian Leadership (a Deakin University/Save the Children Australia partnership). She joined Deakin in 2018, shortly before graduating from her Ph.D. Nazanin’s doctoral research focused on humanitarian non-governmental organizations working in North Korea. She has continued to work on various topics in the area of humanitarianism and North Korea, including recent projects on the unintended impacts of sanctions on aid, international engagement with people with disabilities, and concepts of emergency and protracted crises. Nazanin teaches postgraduate courses in humanitarian studies, and is also interested in research on humanitarian pedagogy. Her research and teaching are closely linked, and she often uses North Korea as a case study for considering humanitarian dilemmas. Nazanin holds an M.A. (Hons) in International Relations from the University of Edinburgh (Scotland), a joint Master’s in International Humanitarian Action from Université Catholique de Louvain (Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium) and Ruhr-Universität Bochum (Germany), a PhD in Asian and International Studies from the City University of Hong Kong, and a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Learning and Teaching from Deakin University. She is from Massachusetts, USA. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/3rUAWz7VCmsCd82xZMMLTD) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement](https://ncafp.org/resources/looking-back-and-moving-forward-gfa-anniversary-celebration/) **Published:** February 27, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Looking Back and Moving Forward: The NCAFP’s 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Good Friday Agreement** *March 13, 2023* On March 13th, the NCAFP held a celebration to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. This event honored the many individuals and institutions who worked tirelessly to bring peace and prosperity to Northern Ireland and its communities across the political and religious spectrum. During the daytime, the organization hosted a conference to discuss lessons from the peace process and today’s political challenges post-Brexit. The NCAFP was honored to have a wide range of political leaders from Northern Ireland, as well as peace activists and policy experts from the region. The NCAFP then held an evening reception to honor and celebrate the Irish American community’s support of the Good Friday Agreement, personified by the incredible leadership of William J . Flynn, NCAFP Chairman Emeritus and the former Chairman of Mutual of America. Featured speakers included Senator George J. Mitchell; Micheál Martin, TD; The Honorable Richard E. Neal, and British Consul General Emma Wade-Smith. The evening celebration ended with the NCAFP presenting its Hans J. Morgenthau Award to Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton in recognition of her contributions to peace and stability in Northern Ireland and around the world. As the Chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast, Secretary Clinton continues to support the region and its communities. The NCAFP would like to thank the following sponsors for generously supporting this event: Mutual of America, Invest Northern Ireland, the Consulate General of Ireland in New York, and Orion Resources. ***This event was not open to the public.*** **Content Type:** Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: The Future of the U.S.-Japan Alliance](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-future-of-the-u-s-japan-alliance/) **Published:** September 17, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **The Future of the U.S.-Japan Alliance: A Global Partnership** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *June 24, 2024* Following the second Biden-Kishida summit held this past April, the NCAFP hosted another U.S.-Japan conference to discuss opportunities for the U.S.-Japan alliance to effectively meet evolving global security and economic challenges against the backdrop of global and domestic uncertainties. Some of the main topics included: - What are the top foreign policy priorities for managing regional flash points and deescalating to avoid conflict? - How can the U.S. and Japan chart a path forward for effective global engagement that balances security concerns and maintaining openness? - What are realistic recommendations to further institutionalize alliance and multilateral cooperation? To read more about the key takeaways and recommendations in response to these questions, please read the NCAFP’s latest report: “The Future of the U.S.-Japan Alliance: A Global Partnership.” [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Final-NCAFP-US-Japan-Report-2024.pdf) *Header image: President Joe Biden speaks during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in the White House Rose Garden. (Official White House Photo by Oliver Contreras/Flickr)* **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2024 --- ### [WATCH: U.S. Strategy in the Horn of Africa](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-u-s-strategy-in-the-horn-of-africa/) **Published:** April 27, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **From Washington to the Tigray: U.S. Policy in the Horn of Africa** *With Johnnie Carson and Michelle Gavin Moderated by Herman J. Cohen April 22, 2021* East Africa plays a key role in U.S. foreign policy, however it is a region often threatened by the chronic instability of periodic conflict, as recently seen in Ethiopia’s ongoing Tigray crisis. Insular conflicts can spillover, thus threatening to destabilize the region and pose a humanitarian crisis for millions. How is U.S. policy dealing with these challenges to its interests? Does the U.S. have a clearly defined strategy for the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia and its implications for the region? How can the Biden administration and other international actors work together effectively minimize regional instability? ##### Featured Panelists: **Ambassador Johnnie Carson** *Senior Advisor*, United States Institute of Peace *Former Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs* **Ambassador Herman J. Cohen** *President*, Cohen and Woods International *Former Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs* **Ambassador Michelle Gavin** *Senior Fellow for Africa Studies,* Council on Foreign Relations *Former Ambassador to Botswana* [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EzTaieoY3Q&t=2s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Africa **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: The Future of China-Russia Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/partnership-or-revanchism-the-future-of-china-russia-relations/) **Published:** April 7, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Partnership or Revanchism? The Future of China-Russia Relations** *With Thomas E. Graham and Susan A. Thornton* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott April 7, 2022* On February 4, 2022, President Putin and President Xi issued a joint statement detailing shared positions between Russia and China on a variety of global issues. China explicitly supports Russian opposition to further enlargement of NATO, a reference to Ukraine’s efforts to join the alliance. China taking an overt position on European security is a notable first. Russia and China affirmed their commitment to resist Western influence, criticized AUKUS (the trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the U.S.) and U.S. military expansion in the Indo-Pacific, and stated that there are “no limits” to their cooperation. What are the driving forces behind China-Russia relations? How can the U.S. and the international community prepare for tighter economic, military, and technological cooperation between Russia and China? What key national security questions should the U.S. immediately consider, and how should it mitigate any new challenges? Will China strengthen its resolve to militarily reclaim Taiwan?  And does a tighter China-Russia relationship indicate a weakening U.S. leadership role? ##### Featured Panelists: **Dr. Thomas Graham** *Distinguished Fellow*, Council on Foreign Relations *Former Senior Director for Russia*, National Security Council **Susan A. Thornton**  *Project Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** President & CEO NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDXyo4nlxaU) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Europe **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: A Conversation with Special Envoy Mick Mulvaney](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-a-conversation-with-special-envoy-mick-mulvaney/) **Published:** November 2, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **A Conversation with Special Envoy Mick Mulvaney** *With Mick Mulvaney* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *November 2, 2020* Recently, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy joined with Yale University’s Program on Peace and Development to host US Special Envoy for Northern Ireland, **Mick Mulvaney** for an on-record conversation about his recent trip to Dublin, London and Belfast. He noted the importance of face-to-face diplomacy and the need for continued dialogue. Special Envoy Mulvaney has also held the roles of Acting White House Chief of Staff and Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Key points raised included concerns about an “accidental border” developing, though he remains convinced that all parties are on the same page to prevent that from happening and that a deal is near at hand; he noted a productive relationship with the US congress and mutual desire to protect the GFA, but pushed back on the notion that it has already been damaged by the Internal Market Bill; he suggested that the EU is the actor to watch regarding the imposition of a hard border because EU policymakers lack the shared and lived history between the UK, Northern Ireland the Republic; and he offered that seemingly unilateral decisions coming out of the home office should be understood more as missteps and bad politics, rather than intentionally inflammatory choices. Special Envoy Mulvaney explained that many legacy issues of great concern have simply been sidelined by COVID in the current environment, though relations within Stormont and the devolved government are measurably better today than on January 1. Vitally, Mulvaney offered that many ongoing concerns, especially legacy issues, should be addressed in the short term. As a mythology of the Troubles begins to replace living memory, it will only become harder to find resolutions and closure. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9_hi0Ivp8I) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Good Friday Agreement: 25 Years of Peace](https://ncafp.org/resources/reflections-on-the-gfa-25-years-of-peace-and-progress/) **Published:** March 31, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Reflections on the GFA: 25 Years of Peace and Progress** *With William J. Clinton* *April 3, 2023* On April 3rd, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) participated in the anniversary event, *Reflections on The Good Friday Agreement: 25 Years of Peace & Progress*. On this occasion, the NCAFP  presented its William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award to President **William J. Clinton** to recognize his extraordinary leadership in brokering peace in Northern Ireland by signing the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. President Clinton’s courageous commitment to peace and justice for the people of Northern Ireland led to an agreement that continues to stand as a triumph of diplomacy. The NCAFP is honored to recognize the President and the transformative peace that he brought to Northern Ireland with this award. Ambassador (ret.) **Susan M. Elliott**, President & CEO of the NCAFP, notes: “The NCAFP is committed to helping people of countries in conflict to find peaceful resolutions.  We are honored to recognize President Clinton for the important role he played in helping resolve the conflict in  Northern Ireland and other conflicts around the world.” The William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award was established in 1997 in honor of William J. Flynn, NCAFP Chairman Emeritus, for his decisive leadership and daring diplomacy in spurring two cease-fires and promoting the peace process in Northern Ireland. This award is presented to an individual who has worked tirelessly to resolve a conflict that has affected the national interests of the United States. Previous recipients Senator George J. Mitchell, The Right Honorable Dr. Marjorie Mowlam, Gerry Adams, and Mr. Shaun Kelly. The NCAFP has played a role in Northern Ireland since 1994, when it succeeded in convincing President Bill Clinton to issue a 48-hour visa to Gerry Adams, the leader of Sinn Féin. Adam’s first appearance in the United States led to a ceasefire and enabled him to develop ties with key U.S. leaders, giving him and his party the assurance necessary to enter into peace negotiations and sign the Belfast Agreement in 1998. This courageous act was envisioned by William J. Flynn, former Chairman of Mutual of America. As noted by Gerry Adams: “*The invitation to me from the National Committee on American Foreign Policy duly arrived. It created a major political storm…. Two days before the conference, President Clinton authorized a 48 hour visa that restricted me to the New York area. The backlash from the British government and system was hysterical. The Daily Telegraph summed it up by describing it as ‘the worst rift since Suez’….\[There\] can be no doubt that the granting of the visa was a major shift in U.S. foreign policy and it marked a defining moment in the development of the Irish peace process.”* The NCAFP remains active in Northern Ireland, as it regularly hosts Track II discussions with political leaders on today’s current political and economic challenges. **Content Type:** Events, Media, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [WATCH: Spotlight On Ukraine: A Conversation On Russian Sanctions](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-spotlight-on-ukraine-a-conversation-on-russian-sanctions/) **Published:** March 10, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Spotlight On Ukraine: A Conversation On Russian Sanctions** *With Alexander Cooley and Steven R. Mann* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *March 10, 2022* Since Russian president Vladimir Putin annexed Crimea in 2014, the U.S. has imposed various sanctions on Russian individuals, assets, and businesses. However, these sanctions did not stop other nefarious activities by Russia, which include the SolarWinds cyber-attacks and U.S. election interference. Now Russia has launched a full military invasion of Ukraine. President Biden, in conjunction with various allies and partners, has fulfilled his promise to apply some of the harshest economic and political sanctions available upon the Russian Central Bank and National Wealth Fund, as well as barring Russian access to SWIFT. The Biden administration also encouraged private and public sectors to terminate energy partnerships, like Nord Stream 2, Shell, and BP. The list of companies exiting their obligations with Russian entities continues to grow. The Russian Ruble is now worth less than one cent to the U.S. dollar. But sanctions can have reciprocal effects and unintended consequences. Russia is one of the largest energy producers in the world, and Europe is a chief consumer, reliant on Russian natural gas imports. How will Europe make up for this shortfall? Will Russia ever rejoin Western markets? When economic conditions worsen, how will the average Russian citizen be affected, and how will Putin spin the blame of this crisis to his domestic audience? Are sanctions the only mechanism shy of kinetic force to stop Russia’s military and political advances on Ukraine? ##### Featured Panelists: **Professor Alexander Cooley** *Claire Tow Professor of Political Science*, Barnard College *Former Director*, Harriman Institute for the Study of Russia, Eurasia and Eastern Europe **Ambassador (ret.) Steven R. Mann**  *Former U.S. Ambassador to Turkmenistan* *Former Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Former Senior Advisor,* Exxon Mobil **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** *President & CEO*, NCAFP *Former U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan* [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSf5Ds9ZXLo&t=1s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Backsliding Democracies & Rising Autocracies](https://ncafp.org/resources/backsliding-democracies-rising-autocracies/) **Published:** September 30, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Europe at the Crossroads: Backsliding Democracies and Rising Autocracies** *With Mike Smeltzer and Laura Thornton* *Moderated by Nicholas Thompson* *October 12, 2022* In its 2022 **[Nations in Transit ](https://freedomhouse.org/report/nations-transit/2022/from-democratic-decline-to-authoritarian-aggression)[report](https://freedomhouse.org/report/nations-transit/2022/from-democratic-decline-to-authoritarian-aggression),** Freedom House observed an ongoing 18-year decline of democracies in Central Europe and Eurasia. With the electoral victories of the Brothers of Italy and the Sweden Democrats, both far-right parties with neo-fascist roots, the European Union may need to brace for stringent immigration policies, backlash on LGBTQIA rights, and the calcification of growing Euroscepticism. Furthermore, with the reelection of Hungarian President Viktor Orban, the rising popularity of France’s Marie Le Pen National Rally party, and far-right groups proliferating in Germany and Bosnia, is Europe faced with a new inflection point on the future of European democracy and political security? This bloc of anti-democratic leaders continues to consolidate institutional powers, judicial leadership, media apparatuses, and domestic security for political and elite capture, resulting in eroded democratic institutions. Do these trends forecast further destabilization in the region? Is Europe at a new crossroads between democracy and rising autocracy? What lessons can be drawn from the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol insurrection, and can they be applied to the European political landscape? How can this historical moment be explained, and can it be reversed? ##### Featured Panelists: **Mike Smeltzer** *Senior Research Analyst for Nations in Transit,* Freedom House **Laura Thornton** *Director and Senior Fellow*, Alliance for Securing Democracy at the German Marshall Fund **Nicholas Thompson** *CEO*, The Atlantic *Trustee*, NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPZAZtAPd7w&t=86s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Forecasting Climate Diplomacy and International Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-forecasting-climate-diplomacy-and-international-security/) **Published:** September 18, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Forecasting Climate Diplomacy and International Security** *With Justin Dargin and Erin Sikorsky* *Moderated by Carolyn Kissane*  *September 18, 2023* The scientific community declared July 2023 Earth’s hottest month on record. As global temperatures have risen, the intensity of storms, coastline flooding, wildfires, and prolonged droughts have exhausted national resources and cost trillions in damages worldwide. Furthermore, policy and environmental analysts have directly correlated climate change to mass migration, destabilized global supply chains, stressed energy grids, and other disrupted geo-economic models with alarming ramifications of increased internal and transnational conflicts. Mitigating such challenges requires political compromise, market responsiveness, and international cooperation. However, is this possible in a multipolar world with increased competition of major powers? The Biden Administration has made climate a top priority, but can the US accomplish this agenda while embroiled in trade wars and strategic competition with China and Russia? At what juncture should national and geopolitical security override climate policy, or vice versa? Can ‘climate diplomacy’ ease geopolitical tensions in the most contested regions? And how should rising and middle-power states balance economic development and increased energy demands with varying multilateral commitments? ##### Featured Panelists: **Dr. Justin Dargin** *Nonresident scholar*, Middle East Program at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace *Senior scholar*, Middle East-North Africa Energy and Climate at Oxford University **Erin Sikorsky** *Director,* The Center for Climate and Security *Director*, International Military Council on Climate and Security **Dr. Carolyn Kissane**  *Academic Director and Clinical Professor,* Center for Global Affairs at New York University [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fATX0DOUXk&ab_channel=NationalCommitteeonAmericanForeignPolicy) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2023 --- ### [Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/resources/emerging-leaders-faps/) **Published:** January 1, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders Program** The Asia-Pacific Security Emerging Leaders programs convene groups of distinguished, carefully selected next-generation scholars and experts from around the world to address a variety of pressing issues related to Asia-Pacific security. Emerging leaders are typically research associate professionals or assistant professors with five to ten years of experience who are likely to influence the policy planning process in the future. These young experts are often then included in the NCAFP’s well-established and high-level Track II conferences and public programs. Many participants in the program form relationships that continue beyond its conclusion. The goal of the Emerging Leaders programs is to build relationships among peers working on relevant security issues, and to provide practical tools and exposure to senior-level mentors in the policy field. Previous Emerging Leaders programs have focused on Korean Peninsula security issues, cross-Taiwan Strait relations, and the future of regional integration and multilateralism in the Asia-Pacific region. These programs have been especially effective at convening scholars and experts from all over the world, including the U.S., China, Japan, Italy, Germany, the Republic of Korea, India, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and others. https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-programs/ **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan-Strait --- ### [REPORT: Finding Common Ground: A US-ROK-China Trilateral](https://ncafp.org/resources/finding-common-ground-a-us-rok-china-trilateral/) **Published:** January 1, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Finding Common Ground: A U.S.-ROK-China Emerging Leaders Dialogue** **By Rorry Daniels* *December 17, 2019** On October 15, 2019, the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) convened its first-ever trilateral US-Republic of Korea-China Track II conference for emerging leaders. Topics discussed included US-China relations and strategic competition, ROK regional policy, prospects for trilateral cooperation, and how to deal with North Korea. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/NCAFP-Report_US-C-ROK_emerging-leaders_FINAL.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Korean Peninsula --- ### [APPLY: 2024 Next-Gen Korean Peninsula Specialists Program](https://ncafp.org/resources/2024-next-gen-korean-peninsula/) **Published:** March 18, 2024 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **NCAFP Emerging Leaders Program:** **Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists** ***The application period is closed.*** **Application Submission Period**:  March 18 2024 – April 15, 2024 **Notification of Acceptance**:  Early May 2024 **Roundtables**:  May through September 2024 **Completion of Program**:  January 2025 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to join an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on security issues related to the Korean Peninsula. The project will showcase the new ideas and work of selected participants surrounding the following themes: the changing balance of power in the region, the future of multilateral architecture, the nexus of economic and security policies, how to address North Korea’s nuclear challenge, and transnational issues. The program is designed to help emerging academics translate their research ideas into policy recommendations, and to develop public communications skills. In addition to peer workshops and skills training, each participant will be matched with a mentor from the NCAFP’s network of senior-level former policymakers to further inform the development of the final products—a short policy paper and podcast presentation. The program will consist of seven (7) virtual roundtable discussions with working group peers to workshop their ideas and review papers; receive training on the art of writing for policymakers and other communications/public speaking skills via in-person roundtables in New York City; and two (2) one-on-one mentor sessions with a senior policy practitioner. Throughout the project, participants will write a policy paper on their topic of interest as well as record a short podcast covering their conclusions and policy recommendations. Each participant will receive an honorarium of $1,000 upon completion of all expected responsibilities. All costs related to in-person participation will be covered. This program is made possible with generous support from the Korea Foundation. ##### Application Requirements We will be selecting eight (8) next-generation scholars and experts from around the world. Complete the application form with the following: - Resume - Letter of interest - Short bio, no more than 300 words - A well-developed, one-page prospectus of the research topic related to security issues in the Indo-Pacific on which the group member will develop policy recommendations. Preference will be given to topics related to the Korean Peninsula and/or Korea’s role in the regional security architecture. ##### Optional additional materials to submit can include: - A letter of recommendation from a peer or professional colleague - A writing sample, *no more than 5 pages* ##### Qualifications & Expectations Preferred applicants are Ph.D. candidates, junior researchers, and project management professionals with less than 10 years of experience on security issues related to the Korean Peninsula, who are well poised to influence the policy planning process in the future. Participants must commit to participating in all required meetings, to take place between May and September 2024 (unless excused by the organizers for unavoidable conflicts). After the roundtables, participants will write a policy paper for publication in an edited volume, as well as produce a short podcast episode on the paper’s topic. The publication of the edited volume and podcast episodes will be published by January 2025. [Click Here for Application Form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScrfO83TPHZcbaI8yh2St7es1WEM3H5KyQNOZBVAvXOBwt3PQ/closedform) *This program is made possible through the generous support of:* *Carnegie Corporation of New York* *Henry Luce Foundation* *Korea Foundation* ##### **Equal Opportunity** The NCAFP provides equal opportunities to all applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. ## NCAFP Next-Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists in NYC ![FAPS Emerging Leaders 2021 and 2022 cohort in New York City](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FAPS-emerging-leaders-745x450-1.webp) ***2021 and 2022 Emerging Leaders cohorts in NYC for a conference*** [Click here to learn more about the in-person conference.](https://ncafp.org/next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) [Click here to explore past cohorts’ final products.](https://ncafp.org/faps-emerging-leaders/) **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: U.S.-China: Paving a Better Way Forward](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-u-s-china-paving-a-better-way-forward/) **Published:** September 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **U.S.-China: Paving a Better Way Forward** *By Susan A. Thornton and Emily Sparkman* *July 2024* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted its annual U.S.-China Strategic Dialogue in New York City in early May, shortly after Secretary of State Blinken’s visit to China. Experts from the United States and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) assessed the current state of bilateral relations and discussed opportunities and challenges for managing the future of the relationship in the face of the upcoming U.S. Presidential Election, ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, and numerous other points of contention in the Indo-Pacific region. The following are key recommendations and takeaways from the discussions: - There was unanimous agreement among participants to make use of non-official channels such as travel incentives and tourist promotion to restore these ties in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The two governments should do more to make their support for such exchanges clear and to remove obstacles to, and suspicions about, such travel and exchanges. - Despite the perceived end of the globalization era and ongoing supply chain disruptions, both U.S. and Chinese participants were optimistic that the two countries can preserve economic and scientific cooperation that is mutually beneficial, keeping national security restrictions to a minimum. - Participants specified that preserving the World Trade Organization (WTO) should be at the forefront of the agenda and recommended that the U.S. and China engage in dialogue on a new WTO-centered approach to subsidies, emphasizing sustainable development and clean energy transitions. Read the NCAFP’s latest conference report, “U.S.-China: Paving a Better Way Forward,” to learn more about additional policy recommendations and observations from this Track II dialogue. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/FINAL-U.S.-China-Report-2024.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: The Korean Peninsula and Regional Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-korean-peninsula-and-regional-security/) **Published:** September 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **The Korean Peninsula and Regional Security: Perspectives from the U.S., China, and South Korea** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *July 2024* In early May 2024, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted a Track II dialogue in New York City with scholars and former officials from the United States, the People’s Republic of China, and the Republic of Korea. Against the backdrop of an increasingly fractured global order and fragmenting coalitions, participants assessed the prospects for policy coordination on how to manage relations with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), as well as how to mitigate looming political turbulence and uncertainties. The following are some of the NCAFP’s policy recommendations and conclusions for maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the Asia-Pacific region: - Reaffirm the Geneva Conventions, the international humanitarian laws establishing international legal standards for humanitarian treatment in war. - Reinvigorate the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) regime and diminish nuclear weapons as necessary for national defense. - Mitigate the escalatory spiral of deterrence through reassurance and diplomacy. - Find every possible entry point for re-engagement with the DPRK, including taking diplomatic risks to spur a reciprocal process of engagement. - Seek better understanding of not only the domestic politics of one’s home country, but also the domestic politics of other countries. This includes paying significant attention to and injecting younger voices into political conversations to promote multi-generational dialogue. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NCAFP-2024-US-China-ROK-report.pdf) ###### This work is licensed under [CC BY 4.0 ![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-logo.f0ab4ebe.svg)![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-by.21b728bb.svg)](http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/?ref=chooser-v1) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: Easing Tensions in Northeast Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/easing-tensions-northeast-asia-way-forward-2/) **Published:** June 1, 2014 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Easing Tensions in Northeast Asia: The Way Forward** In 2014, the NCAFP held two Track 1.5 conferences, on a trilateral with representatives from the U.S., China and Japan, and the second a quadrilateral with participants from those three countries plus South Korea in an effort to address the causes of the tensions and to explore ways to east them. The seven papers included in this edited volume are the result. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/easing-tensions-in-northeast-asia-the-way-forward.pdf) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: Building a Regional Order in East Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/building-regional-order-east-asia-community-competition-conflict/) **Published:** March 31, 2016 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Building a Regional Order in East Asia: Community, Competition, Conflict** There are three broad divergent scenarios at work in East Asian international relations today and each suggest different outcomes. The essays in this volume offer a broad and diverse analysis of the conflicting interests and forces at work in East Asia today and they offer a number of policy recommendations for developing a more cooperative relationship among the key actors. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/EastAsiaRegionalOrder_2016.pdf) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: Candid Talks to Improve U.S.-China Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/sweet-sour-candid-talks-improve-u-s-china-relations-2/) **Published:** December 1, 2010 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Sweet and Sour: Candid Talks to Improve U.S.-China Relations** U.S.-China relations have experienced many ups and downs over the past several decades. And the year 2010 was a particularly troublesome time for those relations. Are China and the United States friends, potential enemies or neither friend nor foe? [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/sweet-and-sour-candid-talks-to-improve-u-s-china-relations.pdf) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China --- ### [APPLY: 2022 Next-Gen Korea Peninsula Specialists Program](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-today-2022-next-gen-korea-peninsula-specialists-program/) **Published:** March 21, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **NCAFP Emerging Leaders Program: Next-Generation Korea Peninsula Specialists** *The application period is closed.* **Application Submission Period:**  March 21, 2022 – April 18, 2022 Notification of Acceptance:**  May 6, 2022 Virtual Roundtables:**  May through October 2022 Completion of Program:**  December 2022 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to join an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on security issues in the Indo-Pacific and on the Korean Peninsula. The program is designed to help emerging academics translate their research ideas into policy recommendations, and to develop public communications skills. In addition to peer workshops and skills training, each Emerging Leader will be matched with a mentor from the NCAFP’s network of senior-level former policymakers to further inform the development of the final products—a short policy paper and podcast presentation. This program is made possible with the generous support of the Korea Foundation. The program will consist of eight (8) virtual roundtable discussions (2 of which are optional) with working group peers to workshop their ideas, review papers, and receive short trainings on the art of writing for policy makers and other communications/public speaking skills; and two (2) one-on-one mentor sessions with a senior policy practitioner. Throughout the project, Emerging Leaders will write a policy paper on their topic of interest as well as record a short podcast covering their conclusions and policy recommendations. We will be selecting ten (10) next-generation scholars and experts from around the world. Applications must include the following: - Resume - Letter of interest - Short bio, no more than 300 words - A well-developed, one-page prospectus of the research topic related to security issues in the Indo-Pacific on which the group member will develop policy recommendations. Preference will be given to topics related to the Korean Peninsula and/or Korea’s role in the regional security architecture. Optional additional materials to submit can include: - A letter of recommendation from a peer or professional colleague - A writing sample, *no more than 5 pages* ##### Qualifications & Expectations Preferred applicants are PhD candidates or junior academics with up to 10 years of experience on regional issues within the Indo-Pacific and/or on the Korean Peninsula, who are well-poised to influence the policy planning process in the future. Participants must commit to participating in all required virtual meetings, to take place between May and October 2022 (unless excused by the organizers for unavoidable conflicts). At the conclusion of the roundtables, Emerging Leaders will write a policy paper for publication in an edited volume, as well as produce a short podcast episode on the paper’s topic. Podcasts will be released throughout November and December, followed by publication of the edited volume and launch event in December 2022. Each participant will receive an honorarium of $1,000 upon completion of all expected responsibilities. This program is made possible with generous support from the Korea Foundation. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Emerging-leaders-shot-750x344.png) ***2021 Emerging Leaders cohort Public Webinar Discussion*** [Click here to learn more about our 2021 Emerging Leaders program, their papers, and the podcast series ](https://ncafp.org/read-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [ANNOUNCEMENT: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program](https://ncafp.org/resources/northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-program/) **Published:** September 27, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program: Next Generation Policy Specialists** *The application period is closed.* **Application Submission Period:**  September 28, 2023 – October 23, 2023 **Notification of Acceptance:**  November 6, 2023 **Belfast Introductory Meeting:** December 2, 2023 **New York Concluding Conference:** October 2024 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) has launched an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on policy issues in Northern Ireland. The program is designed to help emerging community leaders to translate their ideas into policy recommendations and to develop public communications skills. In addition to peer workshops and skills training, each Emerging Leader will be matched with a mentor from the NCAFP’s network of senior-level experts and former policymakers to further inform the development of the final product, a short policy paper. The program will consist of a series of virtual roundtable discussions with working group peers to workshop their ideas, review papers, and receive short trainings on the art of writing for policy makers and other communications/public speaking skills; and two one-on-one mentor sessions with a senior policy practitioner. There will be one in-person orientation in Belfast in early December 2023, and an in-person conference in New York City in October 2024.Throughout the project, Emerging Leaders will write a policy paper on their topic of interest which will include policy recommendations. We have selected ten (10) next-generation leaders and experts from Northern Ireland. ##### Qualifications & Expectations Preferred applicants are early to mid-career professionals with either a minimum of 3 years’ experience in policy development on regional issues within Northern Ireland, or a minimum of 3 years’ experience in community development and leadership. Participants must commit to participating in all required virtual meetings, to take place between January through September 2024 (unless excused by the organizers for unavoidable conflicts), and both in-person meetings in Belfast and New York City At the conclusion of the roundtables, Emerging Leaders will write a policy paper for publication in an edited volume, which will be presented at a concluding conference in New York City. **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [LISTEN: New Perspectives: Emerging Leaders Reframe North Korea Policy](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-new-perspectives-emerging-leaders-reframe-north-korea-policy/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **New Perspectives: Emerging Leaders Reframe North Korea Policy** *With Jonathan Corrado, Shaquille James, Nazanin Zadeh-Cummings, and Marialaura De Angelis* *October 2023* In October of 2023, the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security reconvened its 2021 and 2022 cohorts of Emerging Leaders in NYC for two days of conferences and meetings with think tanks and experts on Korean Peninsula and Asia-Pacific security issues. The NCAFP partnered with The Korea Society to record a roundtable discussion on North Korea policy. In this conversation moderated by NCAFP Emerging Leader (2021 Cohort) and The Korea Society’s Policy Director, Jonathan Corrado, Shaquille James (U.S. Air Force, 2021), Nazanin Zadeh-Cummings (Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, 2022), and Marialaura De Angelis (Track2Asia, 2022) discussed a new framing of the North Korean challenge, new approaches to engaging with North Korea, and transitional justice and contingency scenarios. [Click Here to Listen.](https://open.spotify.com/episode/6muh679nLJe81zwy40tqoL) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2023 --- ### [LISTEN: Elections 2024: Expectations and Speculations in Foreign Policy](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-elections-2024-expectations-and-speculations-in-foreign-policy/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Emily Sparkman **Content:** ## **Elections 2024: Expectations and Speculations in Foreign Policy** *With Heather Ashby, Carla Anne Robbins, and Ali Wyne* *Moderated by Nicholas Thompson* *April 2024* The anticipation of more than sixty countries heading for major legislative elections this year will shape global engagement, world democracy, and foreign policy. The possible outcomes of the U.S. elections have dominated the headlines and commanded the attention of foreign policy circles both at home and abroad. With the prolonged war in Ukraine, spreading conflicts in the Middle East, crisis in cross-border migration, and security anxieties across the globe, an AP-NORC poll reports that Americans are more concerned about U.S. foreign relations leading into this election than in previous years. Many world leaders, including key allies and partners, share the same concerns. In the current political atmosphere, how will foreign policy determine ballots in November? Can the U.S. assure consistency with our policy commitments despite electoral results? Moreover, in an increasingly polarizing environment, can the U.S. forge a bi-partisan foreign policy? Joining us to parse out these questions are: Dr. Heather Ashby, Principal Consultant at Corner Alliance; Ms. Carla Anne Robbins, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations on Defense and Security, and faculty director and clinical professor at Baruch College’s Marxe School of Public and International Affairs; Mr. Ali Wyne, Senior Research and Advocacy Adviser for US-China at the International Crisis Group, and author of “America’s Great-Power Opportunity: Revitalizing U.S. Foreign Policy to Meet the Challenges of Strategic Competition” (Polity, 2022); and moderating the discussion is Mr. Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic and member of the NCAFP’s Board of Trustees. *[Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/3XyrFZMQjTq0eKFfYdqzti?si=1659b4cb8abb47ce)* **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2024 --- ### [APPLY: US-Japan-ROK Emerging Leaders Working Group](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-us-japan-rok-emerging-leaders-working-group/) **Published:** September 14, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **US-Japan-ROK Emerging Leaders Working Group** *The application period is closed* **Application Submission Period: Monday, September 14 – Monday, September 28, 2020 **Notification of Acceptance**: Friday, October 2, 2020 **Virtual Roundtables:** October and November 2020 **Report Release:** January 2021 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to join a US-Japan-ROK Working Group of emerging leaders. The program will consist of four (4) virtual roundtable discussions on critical security issues to support a collaborative report with policy recommendations to navigate the next ten years of trilateral relations. We will be selecting **nine (9)** next-generation scholars and experts: **three (3) from the United State, three (3) from Japan, and three (3) from the Republic of Korea**. Participants will be asked to share their own perspectives and policy recommendations for how to best manage trilateral relations to ensure peace and stability in Northeast Asia. Each session will include one or two senior-level experts who will provide their thoughts and reactions to presentations by the next-generation scholars. The discussions will cover the security, political and economic dimensions of trilateral relations. ##### **Qualifications & Expectations Preferred applicants are research associate professionals or assistant professors who have **5-10 years experience** (PhD experience accepted) on regional issues within East Asia and are well-poised to influence the policy planning process in the future. Participants must commit to participating in all sessions, to take place in October and November 2020 (unless excused by the organizers for unavoidable conflicts). At the conclusion of the roundtables, the Working Group will organize and generate a collaborative report which will summarize the key points of the discussions as well as each participant’s policy recommendations for navigating the next ten years of this vital trilateral relationship. The report will be published and distributed in January 2021**.** ##### **Funding & Compensation** Support for this project is provided by the Korea Foundation. Each member of the working group will receive a $3,000 stipend for participation, to be paid upon completion of the working group report. *The application period is closed* **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2020 --- ### [PRESS: Amb. Harry K. Thomas Joins NCAFP Board of Trustees](https://ncafp.org/resources/press-release-amb-harry-k-thomas-joins-ncafp-board-of-trustees/) **Published:** June 17, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **National Committee on American Foreign Policy Names Former Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr., Member of Board of Trustees** NEW YORK, JUNE 17, 2021 — The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) President and CEO Susan M. Elliott, and Chairman, Jeffrey R. Shafer, announced today the appointment of The Honorable Harry K. Thomas, Jr. to the Committee’s Board of Trustees, effective June 15, 2021. Ambassador Thomas retired from the Foreign Service in 2018 following a distinguished 34-year career, holding several senior positions at the U.S. Department of State and the White House—thrice serving as an ambassador. Currently he serves as a Kissinger Senior Fellow at Yale University’s Jackson Institute and is also a Senior Strategic Manager at the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). In addition to these roles, Ambassador Thomas contributes to other organizations as a private business consultant and international affairs lecturer On the announcement, Mr. Shafer shared that “the NCAFP is thrilled to have a diplomat of Ambassador Thomas’ knowledge and character join the Board of Trustees. The entire organization looks forward to his insights and participation in our wide array of conferences and discussions.” During his time in the Foreign Service, Ambassador Thomas served as ambassador to Zimbabwe, the Philippines and Bangladesh. He also served as the State Department’s Executive Secretary and Special Assistant to Secretary Rice, Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources, Director for South Asia at the National Security Council and Director of the Operations Center. Ambassador Thomas speaks Spanish, Hindi, Bengali and conversational Tagalog. He is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross and holds a master’s from Columbia University. He also holds Honorary Doctorates from the College of the Holy Cross, Loyola University of Maryland and Angeles University Foundation of the Philippines and was the Commencement Speaker at these institutions.  He is a member of the College of the Holy Cross and Care for the Homeless Board of Trustees and Chairperson of the Winter4Kids Board of Trustees. He also serves as the QBS Learning Board Chairperson at the American Academy of Diplomacy and is a member of The Asia Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Ambassador Thomas is the recipient of the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award; the Arnold L. Raphel Memorial Award for Mentoring; the Senior Foreign Service Presidential Award and several Superior Honor and Meritorious Honor Awards; the Order of Sikatuna of the Philippines for Exceptional Service and the In Hoc Signo Vinces Award from the College of the Holy Cross. The National Committee on American Foreign Policy and the Board of Trustees welcome and look forward to working closely with Ambassador Thomas, as he brings with him unparalleled experience and energy that will greatly contribute to and grow the timely and critical work of the Committee. **Content Type:** Media **Year:** 2021 --- ### [APPLY: Next-Gen Korea Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/resources/apply-now-next-gen-korea-peninsula-specialists/) **Published:** April 16, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## Next-Gen Korea Peninsula Specialists **Application Submission Period:** April 16 – April 30, 2021 **Notification of Acceptance:** May 10, 2021 **Virtual Roundtables:** May through October 2021 **Completion of Program:** December 2021 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy’s (NCAFP) Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) is accepting applications from qualified individuals to join an Emerging Leaders workshop and mentorship program focused on security issues in the Indo-Pacific and on the Korean Peninsula. The program is designed to help emerging academics translate their research ideas into policy recommendations, and to develop public communications skills. In addition to peer workshops and skills training, each Emerging Leader will be matched with a mentor from the NCAFP’s network of senior-level former policymakers to further inform the development of the final products–a short policy paper and podcast presentation. This program is made possible with the generous support of the Korea Foundation. ##### The Program The program will consist of six (6) virtual roundtable discussions with working group peers to workshop ideas and review papers, and to receive short trainings on the art of writing for policy makers and other communications/public speaking skills; and two (2) one-on-one mentor sessions with a senior policy practitioner. Toward the conclusion of the project, Emerging Leaders will be expected to write a policy paper on their topic of interest as well as record a short podcast covering their research topic, conclusions and policy recommendations. We will be selecting ten (10) next-generation scholars and experts from around the world. Applications must include a resume, letter of interest, and a well-developed one-page prospectus of the research topic related to security issues in the Indo-Pacific on which the group member will develop policy recommendations. Preference will be given to topics related to the Korean peninsula and/or Korea’s role in the regional security architecture. ##### Qualifications & Expectations Preferred applicants are PhD candidates or junior academics with up to 10 years of experience on regional issues within the Indo-Pacific and/or on the Korean Peninsula, who are well-poised to influence the policy planning process in the future. Participants must commit to participating in all virtual meetings, to take place between May and October 2021 (unless excused by the organizers for unavoidable conflicts). At the conclusion of the roundtables, Emerging Leaders will write a policy paper for publication in an edited volume, as well as produce a short podcast episode on the paper’s topic. Podcasts will be released in November, followed by publication of the edited volume and launch event in December 2021. Each participant will receive an honorarium of $1,000 upon completion of all expected responsibilities. This program is made possible with generous support from the Korea Foundation. ##### APPLICATION PERIOD IS NOW CLOSED **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Silent No More](https://ncafp.org/resources/silent-no-more/) **Published:** January 28, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Silent No More** *With Vasfije Krasniqi-Goodman, Pramila Patten, and Teuta Sahatqija* *Moderated by Susan Elliott January 28, 2020* On January 28th, the National Committee hosted a panel discussion in cooperation with the Consulate General of the Republic of Kosovo in New York on combatting sexual violence in conflict.  The panel, moderated by NCAFP president **Susan Elliott**, consisted of practitioners, survivors and national-level diplomats dedicated to calling attention to this global concern. **Pramila Patten**, a Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for this precise issue, shared details on the work of her office, and the immense challenges she faces on a daily basis.  She framed the topic as a truly global one – and urged the audience to consider oft-overlooked elements of sexual violence in conflict, including its use as a tactic in warfare, and the immense challenges faced by survivors in reporting their experiences. **Vasfije Krasniqi-Goodman**, a survivor herself, shared her story from the war in Kosovo.  Her powerful experience has also been heard by the U.S. Congress, as she works to chart a path forward for other survivors from that conflict. The audience also heard from Ambassador **Teuta Sahatqija**, Consul General of the Republic of Kosovo in New York, a long-time advocate for survivors.  She shared many of the ways that Kosovo is working to help make sexual violence in conflict a thing of the past, and the challenges of holding perpetrators to account. A lively question-and-answer session focused mainly on the work of Special Representative Patten’s office – and its difficult mandate. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG_0142-scaled-1.jpg) Panel answers audience questions ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG_0185-scaled-1.jpg) Vasfije Krasniqi Goodman tells her story ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG_0240-scaled-1.jpg) Amb Elliott opens the discussion **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [EVENT: The Impact of Brexit on Women in Northern Ireland](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-what-about-the-women-the-impact-of-brexit-on-women-in-northern-ireland/) **Published:** March 13, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Women-and-Brexit-Event-v1.png)](https://ncafp.org/event-what-about-the-women-the-impact-of-brexit-on-women-in-northern-ireland/women-and-brexit-event-v1/) ## **What About the Women? The Impact of Brexit on Women in Northern Ireland** *March 19, 2024* *American Irish Historical Society* *Space is limited, and RSVPs are required for entry* **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2024 --- ### [EVENT: Northeast Asia at a Crossroads](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-northeast-asia-at-a-crossroads/) **Published:** December 22, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## Northeast Asia at a Crossroads *With Susan M. Elliott, Susan A. Thornton, and Raymond F. Burghardt* *Moderated by Juliet Lee* *January 9, 2023* The evolving security environment in Northeast Asia presents many challenges. US-China relations has devolved into competition at all costs, with strategic mistrust defining the core of bilateral interactions and is amplified by the sharp decline in official dialogue. In particular, the situation in the Taiwan Strait has become dangerous, especially following the August 2 visit of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei and the increase in military activities in and around the Strait. Meanwhile, North Korea remains intent on developing advanced capabilities for its nuclear weapons and is making progress through continued, unprecedented testing of its missiles. While the world awaits a seventh nuclear test, Pyongyang continues to refuse to engage with the relevant parties. Furthermore, the war in Ukraine has heightened US allies’ qualms over the reliability of extended deterrence, with Japan increasing its defense budget to acquire counterstrike capabilities and the ROK having public debates about nuclear weapons on South Korean soil. On the other hand, there are also opportunities for renewed regional and international cooperation. The situation in the Taiwan Strait and Taiwan’s crucial role in global supply chains have bolstered international discussion about the need to strengthen the island’s resilience. Both South Korea and Japan are assuming more global roles under the new Yoon and Kishida administrations respectively, while at the same time working towards improving bilateral relations that have been fraught due to historical issues. And despite little historical success and diminished leverage over North Korea, creative and sincere efforts to reengage are still needed. Please join us for a conversation with a panel of former career US Foreign Service officers as they assess the current developments in Northeast Asia following a recent NCAFP delegation trip to Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo Location: Harvard Club 35 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036 Panel and Reception  6:00pm – 8:00pm ##### Featured Panelists: **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** *President & CEO* NCAFP **Susan A. Thornton** *Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP **Ambassador (ret.) Raymond F. Burghardt** *President* Pacific Century Institute **Juliet Lee** *Deputy Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Priorities for the Quad in the Indo-Pacific](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-priorities-for-the-quad-in-the-indo-pacific/) **Published:** March 24, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## Priorities for the Quad in the Indo-Pacific *With Yuichi Hosoya, Dhruva Jaishankar, Rory Medcalf, and Yuki Tatsumi* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *March 24, 2021* The U.S., Japan, Australia and India have come together in high-level meetings to coordinate and cooperate on common security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, including territorial disputes, violations of the international rules-based order, and economic coercion. While remaining short of a formal alliance, this grouping of key regional democracies can organize significant collective action on areas of overlapping national interest. What are the top security priorities for each country, individually and together, in next five years? How can the four countries work with each other and with like-minded partners to advance common interests? And what are the main barriers, if any, to quadrilateral cooperation? The NCAFP convened experts from all four sides to discuss the future of the Quad. ##### Featured Panelists: **Professor Yuichi Hosoya** *Professor of International Politics, Faculty of Law* Keio University **Dhruva Jaishankar** *Executive Director* Observer Research Foundation America **Professor Rory Medcalf** *Head of College, National Security College* Australia National University **Yuki Tatsumi** *Senior Fellow & Co-Director, East Asia Program* Stimson Center **Susan A. Thornton** *Project Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfMOWknRgYU&t=1070s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Conversation with MG Jeffrey L. Milhorn](https://ncafp.org/resources/conversation-with-mg-jeffrey-l-milhorn/) **Published:** April 13, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Conversation with Major General Jeffrey L. Milhorn** *With Jeffrey L. Milhorn* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *April 16, 2020* NCAFP’s President & CEO **Susan Elliott** hosts a discussion with Major General **Jeffrey L. Milhorn**, Commander and Division Engineer of the North Atlantic Division of the Army Corps of Engineers. Major General Milhorn is leading the Corps’ efforts in responding to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in the Northeastern United States. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pm6jgDbi2og) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Statecraft in the 21st Century](https://ncafp.org/resources/statecraft-in-the-21st-century-watch-now/) **Published:** May 27, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Statecraft in the 21st Century: Policy Coordination on Traditional and Non-Traditional Security Threats** *With Oh Joon, Kanehara Nobukatsu, Kathleen Stephens, and Qi Zhenhong*  *Moderated by Joshua Walker* *May 20, 2020 Co-hosted with [The Japan Society](https://japansociety.org/)* On May 20th, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, along with The Japan Society,  co-hosted “Statecraft in the 21st Century: Policy Coordination on Traditional and Non-Traditional Security Threats”. The public program brought together a group of renowned and experienced policy practitioners from the United States, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea to discuss the increasingly complex 21st-century policy environment, and the need for sustained multilateral coordination on non-traditional security threats—including pandemics—in addition to addressing persistent traditional security threats. ##### Featured Panelists: **Kanehara Nobukatsu** *Senior Advisor*, The Asia Group *Distinguished Research Fellow*, Japan Forum on International Relations **Ambassador Oh Joon** *Professor of United Nations Studies* Kyung Hee University **Ambassador Qi Zhenhong** *President*, China Institute for International Studies **Ambassador Kathleen Stephens** *President & CEO*, Korea Economic Institute in America *Chair of the Board*, The Korea Society [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVRsZfLX6vI) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Iran, Saudi Arabia and Rivalries in the Modern Middle East](https://ncafp.org/resources/iran-saudi-arabia-and-rivalries-in-the-modern-middle-east/) **Published:** May 18, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Iran, Saudi Arabia and Rivalries in the Modern Middle East** *With Kim Ghattas* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *May 18, 2020* On May 18, the National Committee hosted journalist and scholar **Kim Ghattas** for a conversation on her new book **Black Wave: Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the Forty-Year Rivalry That Unraveled Culture, Religion, and Collective Memory in the Middle East*.* **Kim Ghattas** is an Emmy-award winning journalist and writer who covered the Middle East for twenty years for the BBC and the Financial Times. She has also reported on the U.S State Department and American politics, and is the author of The Secretary: A Journey with Hillary Clinton from Beirut to the Heart of American Power. She has been published in The Atlantic, the Washington Post, and Foreign Policy and is currently a non-resident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington. Born and raised in Lebanon, she now lives between Beirut and Washington, D.C. Join the NCAFP as we host Kim Ghattas, a non-resident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and author of Black Wave: Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the Forty-Year Rivalry That Unraveled Culture, Religion, and Collective Memory in the Middle East. Ms. Ghattas will discuss her new book, which examines the modern Middle East and the origins of the bitter rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4VTvF1sjx0&t=11s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: New Defenses and New Norms: Space, Cyber, and AI](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-new-defenses-and-new-norms-space-cyber-and-ai/) **Published:** May 6, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **New Defenses and New Norms: Space, Cyber, and AI** *With Michael J. Jackson, Andrew Metrick, and Audrey M. Schaffer* *Moderated by Kat Duffy* *May 22, 2024* With emerging technology comes new norms and responsibilities. As AI generative pre-trained transformers (GPT) have been adopted into advanced weapons systems, such as drones and other lethal autonomous weapons (LAWs), military analysts to ethicists have varied reports heeding warnings or celebrating its innovations.  GPT combined with cyberwarfare can exacerbate the destructive effects of state-sponsored attacks. Conversely, this duo may also aid early threat detections but dangerously pushes humans to process risk at faster rates. More and more, it’s *when* rather than *if*, these systems overflow into outer space. What happens if the Outer Space Treaty of non-WMD is violated? How then will technological diplomacy and international cooperation evolve? ##### **Featured Panelists:** **Michael J. Jackson** *Director for Business Growth, Information Warfare and Cyber*, Peraton *Former Information Operations and Special Activities*, US European Command J39 **Andrew Metrick** *Executive Director of the Defense Technology Task Force* and *Fellow at the Defense Program,* Center for a New American Security **Audrey M. Schaffer** *Senior Associate of Aerospace Security Project*, Center for Strategic and International Studies *Vice President of Strategy and Policy*, Slingshot Aerospace **Kat Duffy** *Senior Fellow for Digital and Cyberspace Policy*, Council on Foreign Relations [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2Eu9TPR84k) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2024 --- ### [LISTEN: The U.S.-Japan Alliance in a Turbulent World](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-us-japan-alliance/) **Published:** April 30, 2024 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The U.S.-Japan Alliance in a Turbulent World** *With Ken Jimbo and Sheila Smith* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *April 23, 2024* On April 23, 2024, the NCAFP hosted an in-person program on the current U.S.-Japan alliance. Our esteemed speakers included **Professor Ken Jimbo,** Professor at the Faculty of Policy Management at Keio University; **Dr. Sheila A. Smith,** John E. Merow Senior Fellow for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations; and **Ms. Susan A. Thornton,** Director of NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security. They discussed the significance of the U.S.-Japan summit, explored implications of the coming U.S. elections, and tackled challenges such as North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, maritime security issues, and the importance of engaging with Southeast Asia in addressing common security concerns. Listen to these experts dive into how the U.S. and Japan can navigate the complexities of today’s turbulent world and how they can uphold stability and peace in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/60rwcp3SU3rAV5S7O4TKq5?si=a7f6716eaf414b82&nd=1&dlsi=a17915300b4e4268) **About the speakers:** **Professor Ken Jimbo** is Professor at the Faculty of Policy Management, Keio University. He served as a Special Advisor to the Minister of Defense, Japan Ministry of Defense (2020) and a Senior Advisor, The National Security Secretariat (2018-20). His main research fields are in International Security, Japan-US Security Relations, Japanese Foreign and Defense Policy, Multilateral Security in Asia-Pacific, and Regionalism in East Asia. He has been a policy advisor for various Japanese governmental commissions and research groups including for the National Security Secretariat, the Ministry of Defense, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His policy writings have appeared in NBR, The RAND Corporation, Stimson Center, Pacific Forum CSIS, Japan Times, Nikkei, Yomiuri, Asahi and Sankei Shimbun. **Dr. Sheila A. Smith** is John E. Merow senior fellow for Asia-Pacific studies at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). An expert on Japanese politics and foreign policy, she is the author of Japan Rearmed: The Politics of Military Power, Intimate Rivals: Japanese Domestic Politics and a Rising China (released in Japanese as 日中 親愛なる宿敵: 変容する日本政治と対中政策), and Japan’s New Politics and the U.S.-Japan Alliance. She is also the author of the CFR interactive guide Constitutional Change in Japan. Smith is a regular contributor to the CFR blog Asia Unbound and a frequent contributor to major media outlets in the United States and Asia. Smith joined CFR from the East-West Center in 2007, where she directed a multinational research team in a cross-national study of the domestic politics of the U.S. military presence in Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines. She was a visiting scholar at Keio University in 2007-08, where she researched Japan’s foreign policy towards China, supported by the Abe Fellowship. Smith has been a visiting researcher at two leading Japanese foreign and security policy think tanks, the Japan Institute of International Affairs and the Research Institute for Peace and Security, and at the University of Tokyo and the University of the Ryukyus. Smith is chair of the Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission (JUSFC) and the U.S. advisors to the U.S.-Japan Conference on Cultural and Educational Interchange (CULCON), a binational advisory panel of government officials and private-sector members. She teaches as an adjunct professor at the Asian studies department of Georgetown University and serves on the board of its Journal of Asian Affairs. She also serves on the advisory committee for the U.S.-Japan Network for the Future program of the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation. Smith earned her MA and PhD from the political science department at Columbia University. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2024 --- ### [WATCH: Book talk: "Paper Soldiers" by Saleha Mohsin](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-book-talk-paper-soldiers-by-saleha-mohsin/) **Published:** April 24, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Book talk: “Paper Soldiers: How the Weaponization of the Dollar Changed the World Order”** With Saleha Mohsin *Moderated by Jacqueline Adams April 2, 2024* *Co-hosted with [The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/arts-culture/item/1851-the-south-korean-film-industry-with-sangjoon-lee-dal-yong-jin-and-jason-bechervaise)* Enjoy this discussion with the Senior Washington Correspondent for Bloomberg News **Saleha Mohsin** on her newly released book *Paper Soldiers: How the Weaponization of the Dollar Changed the World Order*, in cooperation with [The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/). As the global order continues to evolve, it seems that the dollar’s dominance may find itself waning for the first time in 70 years. In a world dividing into two camps, one led by China and the other by the U.S, Mohsin investigates America’s strong dollar policy and how it has shaped the world order, the effects of America’s heavy-handed sanctions on its adversaries, and how American allies like South Korea view the dollar in today’s global financial system. The conversation was moderated by former CBS White House Correspondent and NCAFP Board Member, **Jacqueline Adams**. ##### Featured Panelists: **Saleha Mohsin** is the senior Washington correspondent for Bloomberg News. In her role, she covered the final months of the Obama Treasury Department, then the transition into the Trump presidency. Her work as a Treasury reporter encompassed Trump’s trade war, economic sanctions, parts of the Federal Reserve and Capitol Hill, and the government’s response to the worst public health crisis in nearly a century. Saleha also covered the transition into the Biden White House, including the stronger focus on economic statecraft and the ‘Buy America’ agenda that carried over from the previous administration. She also reported on the U.S. response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. **Jacqueline Adams** has had a long career as a journalist, author and convener.  She launched a second career as a communications strategist after more than two decades as an Emmy Award-winning CBS News correspondent. Through her boutique consulting firm, J Adams: Strategic Communications, LLC, she counsels corporate and non-profit clients. An alumna of Harvard Business School, Ms. Adams serves on the Board of Directors of the HBS Club of New York,  the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and the senior community, Brookhaven at Lexington. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the International Advisory Committee of the United States Institute of Peace, and the Advisory Council of the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nquhb4zNtyI) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2024 --- ### [WATCH: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation](https://ncafp.org/resources/register-building-resilience-in-the-age-of-disinformation/) **Published:** November 15, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Fortifying the Future: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation** *The National Committee on American Foreign Policy hosted a two-part event series, “Fortifying the Future: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation.” Each session featured insights from leading experts in business, media, policy, and technology. This series was supported by NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division* While social media channels and new technologies have rightly been lauded for their ability to foster community and bridge global divides, they can also create challenges when weaponized by nefarious actors. State-sponsored disinformation campaigns are underway, and routinely spread skepticism and animosity within civil society, and, critically, between the public and their elected officials. Disinformation can easily and cheaply be used to persuade the public at an accelerated and dangerous rate as the very algorithms utilized by digital platforms inadvertently encourage the sharing of false information.  As such, hostile information activities have become an imminent security threat. The long-term and deeply embedded relationships within NATO, and transatlantic relations more broadly, can provide the raw materials needed to build resilience and to fortify against future hostile information threats.  In this two-part series, the first event will focus specifically on US policy, and how the private and public sectors can work in tandem to reduce threats. The second event will highlight European perspectives, and how national-level policy works in concert with multilateral decision-making in countering the threat of hostile information. ##### Session I: Fortifying the Future: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation *Moderated by Nicholas Thompson* *November 29, 2021* ##### Featured Panelists: **Kevin Allison** *Director*, Geo-Technology Eurasia Group **Major General (ret.) Skip Davis** *Senior Fellow,* Transatlantic Defense and Security Center for European Policy Analysis **Joan Donovan** *Research Director,* Shorenstein Center for Media, Politics, and Public Policy Harvard Kennedy School **Clara Tsao** *Co-Founder* and *Board Member,* Trust & Safety Professional Association **Nicholas Thompson** *CEO*, The Atlantic [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDkN-ATihVM) ##### Session II: Fortifying the Future: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation *Moderated by Nicholas Thompson December 6, 2021* ##### Featured Panelists: **Benjamin Haddad** *Senior Director*, Europe Center Atlantic Council **Dominika Hajdu** *Policy Director*, Centre for Democracy and Resilience GLOBSEC Policy Institute **Jakub Janda** *Director,* European Values Center for Security Policy **James Pamment** *Associate Professor,* Lund University **Nicholas Thompson** *CEO*, The Atlantic [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BMCYpNSH1o&t=12s) ![Image](https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/5biWytTrs7a1CaE36WOJhRvi_6dT7m74OcZfIyB7fpVWNChjH4EW0QGGP65Ka5PZ2v2A5G56kvamyRzWHaCLYWbrsL_MLUM0Bzq_r9QDH3blUjnZqhfQXLpWrWIDX_jaUXnj3Rf-aeffJzs5C4UGPgvnzYDirk3TndqE_Z13a645rMbBXOCL9iw6mVFq4f8ADWiUu2exbCY1kTnu8DI5cQ=s0-d-e1-ft#https://crm.nonprofiteasy.com/StreamHandler/GetPublicFile?key=e2NpZDo2Mzk4LGlkOic4MWJiM2QzZS03NmUxLTQ0NmUtYTIxNi1kM2I3ZTdiMTJmMmEucG5nJ30%3d) **This series was supported by NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division** **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Elections 2024: Expectations and Speculations](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-elections-2024-expectations-and-speculations/) **Published:** March 25, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Election 2024: Expectations and Speculations in** **Foreign Policy** *With Heather Ashby, Carla Anne Robbins, and Ali Wyne* *Moderating Nicholas Thompson* *March 19, 2024*  *This was a George D. Schwab Foreign Policy Briefing* The anticipation of more than sixty countries heading for major legislative elections this year will shape global engagement, world democracy, and foreign policy. The possible outcomes of the U.S. elections have dominated the headlines and commanded the attention of foreign policy circles both at home and abroad. With the prolonged war in Ukraine, spreading conflicts in the Middle East, crisis in cross-border migration, and security anxieties across the globe, an AP-NORC poll reports that Americans are more concerned about U.S. foreign relations leading into this election than in previous years. Many world leaders, including key allies and partners, share the same concerns. In the current political atmosphere, how will foreign policy determine ballots in November? Can the U.S. assure consistency with our policy commitments despite electoral results?  Moreover, in an increasingly polarizing environment, can the U.S. forge a bi-partisan foreign policy? ##### Featured Speakers: **Dr. Heather Ashby** *Principal Consultant*, Corner Alliance **Carla Anne Robbins** *Senior Fellow,* Council on Foreign Relations on Defense and Security **Ali Wyne** *Senior Research and Advocacy Adviser for US-China,* The International Crisis Group **Nicholas Thompson** *CEO*, The Atlantic *Trustee,* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-Ko43f6BV4) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2024 --- ### [EVENT: The Republic of Korea and the UN Security Council](https://ncafp.org/resources/rok-and-un-security-council/) **Published:** March 5, 2024 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The Republic of Korea and the UN Security Council with ROK Permanent Representative to the United Nations** *With Joonkook Hwang* *Moderated by Thomas A. Byrne*  *March 15, 2024* *Co-hosted with [The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/arts-culture/item/1851-the-south-korean-film-industry-with-sangjoon-lee-dal-yong-jin-and-jason-bechervaise)* This timely discussion was about the Republic of Korea’s membership in the United Nations Security Council for the 2024-2025 term. It featured the ROK Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador **Joonkook Hwang**, in conversation with Korea Society President and CEO **Thomas A. Byrne**. The Republic of Korea, which has a special history and bond with the United Nations, aims to actively contribute to world peace and security and fulfill the expectations of the international community during its tenure as a non-permanent member of the Security Council. This event offered a valuable opportunity for the audience to gain insights into Ambassador Hwang’s perspective on the ROK’s vision for its Security Council activities, highlighting its interests and priorities among more than 60 regional and thematic agenda items on the Council. Moreover, Ambassador Hwang is anticipated to address the current status and future prospects of the Korean Peninsula, including recent changes and implications of North Korea’s nuclear and inter-Korean policies. This event served as a platform for shedding light on new Security Council dynamics in recent years amidst ongoing global geopolitical changes, in particular the enhanced roles of non-permanent Council members, referred to as the Elected 10. This event is co-hosted by the The Korea Society and features introductory remarks by NCAFP Chairman of the Board of Trustees **Jeffrey R. Shafer**. The conversation was moderated by Thomas A. Byrne, President of The Korea Society. The opening remarks from Ambassador Hwang were live-streamed, and the Q&A was off-the-record. In-person attendance at this program is *by invitation only.* Online registration for the livestream is open to all. Ambassador **Joonkook Hwang** was born in Seoul in December 1960. He assumed his current position of Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations in July 2022. Ambassador Hwang joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of Korea in 1982. Throughout the majority of his distinguished diplomatic career, he has assumed key responsibilities on political and security matters both at the bilateral and multilateral levels. He has held various senior positions in the Government of the Republic of Korea, including, among others, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (2016-18), Special Representative (Vice Foreign Minister) for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs and Head of Delegation to the Six-Party Talks (2014-16), Chief Negotiator for the ROK-US Defense Burden-sharing arrangement (2013), Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister for Political Affairs at the ROK Embassy in Washington DC (2010-13), and Ambassador and Director-General for North Korean Nuclear Issues (2008-10). Ambassador Hwang returns to New York after previously serving as Counsellor (2003- 06) and First Secretary (1995-97) at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations. He retired from the government in 2018, and taught courses on the North Korean nuclear crisis and Politics in Northeast Asia as a visiting professor at Yonsei University and Hallym University in Korea. Ambassador Hwang graduated from Seoul National University in 1982, majoring in Economics. He obtained his Master’s degree in Public Affairs at Princeton University in 1986. Ambassador Hwang is married to Shil Rhee and they have two daughters. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [WATCH: Endangered Peace on the Korean Peninsula](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-event-with-the-korea-society/) **Published:** February 21, 2024 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## Rumbles of Thunder and Endangered Peace on the Korean Peninsula *With Moon Chung-In, Markus Garlauskas, and Susan A. Thornton Moderated by Thomas A. Byrne January 31, 2024* *Co-hosted with [The Korea Society](https://www.koreasociety.org/)* Recent events have heightened military tensions on the Korean Peninsula—North Korea’s successful launch of a military satellite resulting in Seoul’s decision to partially suspend the inter-Korean Comprehensive Military Agreement (CMA), and followed by Pyongyang’s deployment of additional forces near its border with South Korea—increasing the chances of conflict on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea’s advancements in its nuclear weapons and missile programs, coupled with the diminishing enforcement of sanctions and renewed support from Russia, have sparked debates among the South Korean public and security experts about the possibility of Seoul pursuing an indigenous nuclear deterrent. ##### Featured Panelists: **Professor** **Moon Chung-in** *James Laney Distinguished Professor,* Yonsei University Former Special Adviser of National Security and Foreign Affairs to ROK President (2017-2021) **Markus Garlauskas** *Director of Indo-Pacific Security Initiative*, Atlantic Council Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security **Susan A. Thornton** *Director of Forum on Asia-Pacific Security*,  NCAFP *Senior Fellow,* Paul Tsai China Center at Yale University **Thomas J. Byrne** *President*, The Korea Society [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ud_BuJcf22U) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [WATCH: What's Next for U.S. Policy in the Middle East?](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-whats-next-for-u-s-policy-in-the-middle-east/) **Published:** January 24, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **What’s Next for U.S. Policy in the Middle East?** *With Hussein Ibish, Aaron David Miller, and Mairav Zonszein* *Moderated by Farah Pandith January 23, 2024 This program was a George D. Schwab Foreign Policy Briefing* In the aftermath of the October 7th attack by the terrorist group Hamas that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis and initially took 245 hostages, Israel launched an unprecedented ground and air counteroffensive into the Gaza Strip. In December of 2023, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the operation would continue for “many more months” and has stated, “Hamas must be destroyed, Gaza must demilitarize, and Palestinian society must deradicalize.” To this day, and despite Palestinian deaths surpassing 23,000 in many reports, Israel has not shown signs of relenting its operations in Hamas-controlled Gaza, and regular strikes on U.S. bases and commercial vessels by Iran-backed Houthis are sparking fears of a full regional outbreak. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one of the most contested and unresolved areas in U.S. foreign policy, a wedge issue that spills daily into domestic political debate. The recent visits by Secretary of State Antony Blinken underscore the importance of short-term and long-term strategic commitments; however, can the U.S. broker a path for stability that equally accounts for Palestinian and Israeli interests?  Is a two-state solution a viable outcome? Moreover, how should the U.S. avoid escalating or being pulled into a wider conflict in the Middle East? ##### Featured Panelists: **Dr. Hussein Ibish *Senior Resident Scholar*, Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington  **Aaron David Miller**  *Senior Fellow,* Carnegie Endowment for International Peace  **Mairav Zonszein** *Senior Analyst on Israel and Palestine,* International Crisis Group **Farah Pandith**  *Adjunct Senior Fellow,* Council on Foreign Relations [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fD06vXrFkw&t=17s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2024 --- ### [WATCH: Northeast Asian Regional Security After APEC](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-northeast-asian-regional-security-after-apec/) **Published:** December 5, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Northeast Asian Regional Security After APEC** *With Allison Hooker, Susan A. Thornton, and Rick Waters* *Moderated by Juliet Lee* *November 21, 2023* While the international security environment continues to be difficult to navigate amid conflicts in Ukraine and now the Middle East, some tentative gains appear to have been made in Northeast Asia regional security recently.  The U.S.-China relationship is on a steadying trend following frequent high-level engagement in recent months, and in anticipation of an in-person meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the margins of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. The historic Camp David summit between the U.S., Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK) institutionalized trilateral cooperation between the allies, expanding the scope of coordination to include economic and development cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. Furthermore, support for Taiwan in Washington remains strongly bipartisan. Despite these positive trends, though, significant challenges remain. Will it be possible to maintain this stabilizing momentum amidst multiple international crises and domestic political uncertainties as we enter 2024? ##### Featured Panelists: **Allison Hooker** Senior Vice President, American Global Strategies **Susan A. Thornton** Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security, NCAFP **Rick Waters** Managing Director for China, Eurasia Group **Juliet Lee** Deputy Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security, NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gd18H2AQ2JE) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2023 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: Shifting Geopolitics in the Middle East](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-recap-shifting-geopolitics-in-the-middle-east/) **Published:** June 15, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Shifting Geopolitics in the Middle East** *With Asha Castleberry-Hernandez, Holly Degres, and Martin Indyk* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *June 13, 2023* On June 13th, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted a panel discussion on shifting geopolitics in the Middle East following the peace agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran that was brokered by China. The panel included **Ms.** **Asha Castleberry-Hernandez**, former Senior Advisor to Assistant Secretary of State of Near Eastern Affairs and Kuwait Desk Officer at U.S. Army Central, **Ms. Holly Dagres**, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and Editor of *IranSource* and *The Iranist*, as well as **Ambassador (ret.) Martin Indyk,** the Lowy Distinguished Fellow in U.S.-Middle East Diplomacy at the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. Ambassador to Israel. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan Elliott**, President & CEO of the NCAFP, moderated the panel. The panelists offered their thoughts on the state of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia following the Chinese brokered deal between the two countries, and the future role of U.S. diplomacy in the region.  Their varied experiences, informed by time spent in many Gulf nations, brought nuance and rich understanding to a challenging set of issues. It was agreed that the deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran is still in its infancy, and before being judged on its efficacy, it needs proven results before declaring a new era of rapprochement.  Although many details appear opaque, increased security and stability in the Middle East is a welcomed occasion. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Asha-647x453.jpg) Ms. Castleberry-Hernandez sharing her thoughts with her fellow panelists Ambassador Indyk suggested that if the U.S. plans to disconnect from the Middle East, Washington should prepare for others to fill the void, particularly during a multipolar competitive environment in the region. For future engagement, the U.S. should rethink its position as an “off-shore balancer,” offering confidence about our foreign policy commitments to our allies and partners while concurrently expecting more responsibility from them as well. As Ms. Castleberry-Hernandez said, it was “no surprise” that China would become a neutral broker in the region; the Biden-Harris administration has reprioritized U.S. strategic competition with China in the Indo-Pacific as well as in Europe, and distantly kept a close watch on the Middle East. ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Attendees-614x453.jpg)The panelists engage with audience members after the discussion While historically Iran kept a fluid policy position, easily slipping between Eastern and Western partnerships, it has been slighted by the U.S. reneging the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and largely ignored by Europe. Ms. Dagres poignantly mentioned that as Iran muscles a foreign policy strength in the region, the internal struggles confronting ordinary Iranians by the regime are too large to dismiss. A Q&A session followed the panel discussion, in which attendees asked a series of questions related to China’s role as a mediator in the Middle East, and how shifting relations change the political calculus for both the U.S. and its closest ally in the region, Israel. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2023 --- ### [LISTEN: Rumbles of Thunder and Endangered Peace on the Korean Peninsula](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-rumbles-of-thunder-and-endangered-peace-on-the-korean-peninsula/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Rumbles of Thunder and Endangered Peace on the Korean Peninsula** *With Susan Thornton, Moon Chung-In, Markus Garlauskas Moderated by Thomas Byrne January 2024* Recent events have heightened military tensions on the Korean Peninsula—North Korea’s successful launch of a military satellite resulting in Seoul’s decision to partially suspend the inter-Korean Comprehensive Military Agreement (CMA), and followed by Pyongyang’s deployment of additional forces near its border with South Korea—increasing the chances of conflict on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea’s advancements in its nuclear weapons and missile programs, coupled with the diminishing enforcement of sanctions and renewed support from Russia, have sparked debates among the South Korean public and security experts about the possibility of Seoul pursuing an indigenous nuclear deterrent. Join us for a program co-hosted by The Korea Society and the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) on the future of Korean Peninsula security and suggestions for de-escalation and preventive diplomacy, featuring Professor Moon Chung-In, James Laney Professor at Yonsei University and Vice Chair for the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network for Nuclear Nonproliferation and Disarmament. Following Professor Moon’s initial remarks, he will be joined by NCAFP director for Asia Susan A. Thornton and Director of the new Indo-Pacific Security Initiative of the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security Markus Garlauskas for a conversation moderated by Korea Society president & CEO Tom Byrne. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/4wFHsQWr4erWPBhjWV7zkE) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: Opportunities for Transatlantic Peacebuilding in Northern Ireland](https://ncafp.org/resources/opportunities-for-transatlantic-peacebuilding-in-northern-ireland/) **Published:** June 1, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Opportunities for Transatlantic Peacebuilding in Northern Ireland** *By Susan M. Elliott and Erin O’Donnell* *June 1, 2023* In the spring of 2023, the international community gathered together to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement, a diplomatic triumph that resolved decades of conflict in Northern Ireland. The agreement put an end to significant sectarian violence by establishing a power-sharing system, and installing a commitment to political and social equality for all of the region’s inhabitants. However, Brexit and recent political events have significantly threatened the political stability established by the Good Friday Agreement, and have caused substantial socio-economic friction in the region. This friction has alarmed political leaders in Northern Ireland, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and in the region’s strongest partner, the United States. As evidenced by President Biden’s trip to the island of Ireland in early April 2023 and the appointment of Joe Kennedy, III as Special Envoy, the U.S. remains as committed as ever to Northern Ireland’s peace and stability.  The recent 25th anniversary celebratory events with its significant American participation serves as a reminder of the special relationship that the U.S. has with Northern Ireland and its people. As a New York based non-governmental organization, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) upholds this commitment, and has been focused on peacebuilding initiatives in Northern Ireland since 2020. In March of this year, the organization held its own commemorative event, including a daylong conference titled *Looking Back and Moving Forward: Celebrating 25 Years of the Good Friday Agreement,* which recognized the monumental peace deal while creating a platform for political leaders and grassroots community members to share their concerns for the region. In light of the momentum following these Good Friday Agreement anniversary events, the organization visited Northern Ireland in April 2023 to meet with political leaders and grassroots peacebuilding organizations and hear about their concerns in the post-Brexit political landscape. The following report lays out its findings, as well as policy recommendations for the U.S.-Ireland-U.K. relationship. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NCAFP-Transatlantic-Peacebuilding-Report-May-2023-1.pdf) The NCAFP would like to thank the following organizations for supporting its work on Northern Ireland: Mutual of America, The Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, and the Consulate General of Ireland in New York. **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [WATCH: U.S.-Japan-ROK Report Launch & Discussion](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-us-japan-rok-report-launch-discussion/) **Published:** February 3, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Reinvesting in U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea Strategic Relations: A Practical Trilateral Agenda** *With Saeme Kim, Bo Ram Kwon, Jessica Lee, and Ayumi Teraoka*  *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *February 3, 2021* In November 2020, the NCAFP assembled an Emerging Leaders Working Group of ten next-generation scholars and experts from the U.S., ROK and Japan to consider opportunities for and challenges to trilateral relations. Despite a shared desire to maintain peace and stability in Northeast Asia, trilateral cooperation is at a historic low point resulting from differing threat perceptions and policy approaches toward China and North Korea, lingering anxieties over a U.S. bottom-line approach to alliances, and the reemergence of history issues and strategic mistrust in bilateral ROK-Japan relations. Members of the Working Group shared a variety of opinions on the way forward for trilateral cooperation and co-authored this NCAFP report on [“Reinvesting in U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea Strategic Relations: A Practical Trilateral Agenda.”](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/NCAFP_Trilateral_Final-Draft_2021.pdf) The report focuses on policy recommendations for how to manage mistrust and advance common goals, and also addresses key features of the current domestic, regional and bilateral political and security environment. ##### Featured Panelists: **Saeme Kim** Ph.D. Candidate King’s College London **Bo Ram Kwon** Associate Research Fellow, Center for Security and Strategy Korea Institute for Defense Analyses (KIDA) **Jessica Lee** Senior Research Fellow on East Asia Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft **Ayumi Teraoka**  Ph.D. Candidate Princeton University **Susan A. Thornton** Project Director, Form on Asia Pacific Security NCAFP ##### Comments from Q&A Session: **Professor Kuyoun Chung** Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science Kangwon National University **Professor Sara Bjerg Moller** Assistant Professor, School of Diplomacy and International Relations Seton Hall University **Masashi Murano** Japan Chair Fellow Hudson Institute **Andrew I. Park** Consultant Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqgjaUMA9iI&t=243s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Regional Security Architecture of the Asia Pacific: Past, Present and Future](https://ncafp.org/resources/regional-security-architecture-of-the-asia-pacific-past-present-and-future/) **Published:** April 14, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Regional Security Architecture of the Asia Pacific:** **Past, Present and Future** *The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) presents a virtual roundtable series for Emerging Leaders in China and Korea, which was made possible with the support of the Korea Foundation.* ##### Network with Fellow Emerging Leaders: The National Committee is excited to bring together emerging leaders with interest and experience in China and Korea studies for expert-led discussions on regional security architecture. The roundtable series offered participants an opportunity to engage with scholars and experts on vital issues, and to network with fellow emerging leaders and policy professionals. ##### Roundtable Descriptions: **Thursday, April 23, 2020 12:00pm – 1:30pm Regional Security Architecture of the Past:Empires Dr. Randolph Ford**, SUNY Albany China often describes its central place in Asian history in terms of the rise and fall of dynastic empires. The scope and practices of empires have changed over time, but all have sought to expand through territorial conquest while mitigating the disruption of incorporating new identities into their society. Dr. Randolph B. Ford will join us to discuss how ancient Chinese empire used concepts of identity to consolidate power and how Chinese scholars today interpret that history to support political and societal goals. How does history live on in its modern interpretation? How does China view its place in the world, and for what does it expect to be recognized or emulated? What does identity have to do with political and security goals in East Asia, and how important are identity concepts to navigating great power competition today? This discussion will build on themes from Dr. Ford’s forthcoming book, *Rome, China, and the Barbarians: Ethnographic Traditions and the Transformation of Empires* (Cambridge University Press, 2020). **Friday, May 15, 2020 Regional Security Architecture of the Present: Alliances Dr. Mira Rapp-Hooper**, Council on Foreign Relations Alliances, which have been a pillar of US security strategy since the end of World War II, are under new pressure as divergent threat perceptions and an increased focus on burden-sharing drive policy choices. China sees US treaty allies on its periphery as a constraint on policy choices; the two major US allies in East Asia—Japan and the ROK—do not seem to share a vision of a common, cooperative future. What is the proper role and structure for alliances in the post-Cold War era, and how will US efforts to reform the alliance structure affect the regional balance of power? Dr. Mira Rapp-Hooper will take us through the foundations of alliance policy from the mid-20th century to today, and offer suggestions for what might be done to preserve alliance benefits in today’s policy landscape. This discussion will cover content from Dr. Rapp-Hooper’s forthcoming book, *Shields of the Republic: The Triumph and Peril of America’s Alliances* (Harvard University Press, 2020). [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pN_BXGm-how) **Friday, June 12, 2020 12:00pm – 1:30pm Regional Security Architecture of the Future: Weaponized Interdependence and Deglobalization Dr. Henry Farrell,** George Washington University, and **Dr. Abraham Newman**, Georgetown The process of globalization over the last three decades has created a web of interconnected economic and security actors. But the concentration of resources best suited to economic efficiencies also creates new opportunities and challenges for states, to navigate and respond to the use of coercive leverage in which economic interests have been subject to political and security pressures. What are the features of “weaponized interdependence”? How are states reacting to the use of coercive leverage and what do these trends portend for cooperation, competition and conflict in the Asia Pacific? Profs. Henry Farrell and Abraham Newman will join us to discuss the future of interconnectedness and the mounting pressure toward deglobalization as a risk mitigation strategy. Profs. Farrell and Newman have recently received the 2020 International Studies Association ICOMM Best Book Award as co-authors of *Of Privacy and Power: The Transatlantic Struggle over Freedom and Security* (Princeton University Press, 2019). This discussion will also reference Profs. Farrell and Newman’s recent work on weaponized interdependence, including articles in *International Security* and *The Washington Quarterly*. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HXEIPNGfyM) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: On Iran: What’s Next for the Movement and the Regime?](https://ncafp.org/resources/spotlight-on-iran-whats-next-for-the-movement-and-the-regime/) **Published:** January 31, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Spotlight on Iran: What’s Next for the Movement and the Regime?** *Suzanne Kianpour, Firoozeh Kashani-Sabet, and Ali Vaez* *Moderated by Kelly J. Shannon* *January 31, 2023 This program was a George D. Schwab Policy Briefing* The death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian-Kurdish woman who died while in the custody of the morality police last September, ignited protests throughout Iran. Since then, videos and images have emerged of large youth-led protests on the streets of Tehran and other provinces conducting acts of civil disobedience such as removing headscarves and chanting “death to dictator.” Male counterparts have equally participated in the movement signifying much wider support for the regime to relax its mandates. Work stoppages from teachers, drivers, and shop owners in the bazaars looked to be the cusp of an approaching general strike, conceivably adding more ground swell for political and social reforms. Today the protests continue but in smaller numbers and more directed towards the ongoing mock trials and public executions, which the regime remains adamant about staging. With Iran becoming more economically and politically isolated, can the regime survive domestically and regionally?  Although largely leaderless and youth-led, why did Mahsa Amini’s death spark enormous political and social resistance toward Ali Khamenei? What are the long and short term objectives of the Iranian Gen Z-ers: reform or regime change? Will this help or further diminish Western relations with Iran? ##### Featured Panelists: **Dr. Firoozeh Kashani-Sabet** *Walter H. Annenberg Professor of History,* University of Pennsylvania **Suzanne Kianpour** *Journalist* and *Presenter* of BBC’s *Out of the Shadows Professor of Public Diplomacy*, UCLA **Dr. Ali Vaez** *Iran Project Director and Senior Adviser to the President,* International Crisis Group **Dr. Kelly J. Shannon** *Associate Professor of History and Executive Director of the Center for Peace, Justice, and Human Rights* Florida Atlantic University [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_tJGLJYLWM&ab_channel=NationalCommitteeonAmericanForeignPolicy) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2023 --- ### [WATCH: The World Cup and the Geopolitics of International Sports](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-the-world-cup-and-the-geopolitics-of-international-sports/) **Published:** December 16, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Soft Power Competition: The World Cup and the Geopolitics of International Sports** *With Heather Dichter and Jim Murphy* *Moderated by Nicholas Thompson* *December 16, 12:00* The World Cup is the largest sporting event on the planet. FIFA, established in 1904 as the international governing body of the quadrennial match, pre-dates and boasts having more member countries than the United Nations. From this perspective, football (soccer in the US) can bridge political divides, build national pride, and support a world community of sports enthusiasts and spectators. However, this year, the usual conversations surrounding star players and winning predictions are just as passionately spoken about as bribery scandals, migrant labor, LGBTQ+ rights, and surprisingly, beer consumption. Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino, president of FIFA, declared that politics should be kept separate from the World Cup. Is this possible? Historically, has football been a political or diplomatic tool? How should sports and politics entwine on the international stage?  Is Qatar 2022 a case of ‘sports washing’ or a chance for improved relations? What lessons about global affairs can political leaders garner from international sports like the World Cup or the Olympics? And, what advice can leaders impart to the sporting community? ##### Featured Panelists: **Dr. Heather Dichter** *Associate Professor of Sport History and Sport Management*, De Montfort University **The Right Honourable Jim Murphy** *Managing Director,* Arden Strategies Author and former Secretary of State of Scotland, UK **Nicholas Thompson** *CEO*, The Atlantic *Trustee*, NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnUVMpwCByw&t=70s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Next-Gen Policy Perspective: The Korean Peninsula and Beyond](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-next-gen-policy-perspective-the-korean-peninsula-beyond/) **Published:** November 22, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The Future of the Korean Peninsula and Beyond:** **Next-Generation Policy Perspectives** *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *November 28, 2022* The Korean Peninsula is critical to regional and global security. Under the new ROK administration, President Yoon’s “global pivotal state” initiative demonstrates efforts to establish the ROK as a global player. Furthermore, President Yoon and President Biden have pledged to deepen US-ROK alliance coordination on a variety of traditional and non-traditional security issues beyond the Indo-Pacific region. However, there remain enhanced security challenges in the region that require urgent attention, namely the continued expansion of the DPRK nuclear weapons and missile programs, as well as deteriorating US-China relations. Over the last six months, the NCAFP organized a group of 11 next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to share their research ideas related to these topics, and to use that research to inform policy recommendations to improve conditions on the Korean Peninsula for the future. *This emerging leaders workshop was made possible by the generous support of:  Carnegie Corporation of New York; Henry Luce Foundation; Korea Foundation, and John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.* ##### Featured Panelists: **Marialaura de Angelis**  *Co-Founder & Creator* Track2Asia **Dr. Benjamin A. Engel**  *Research Professor, Institute of International Affairs* Seoul National University **Dr. Francesca Franssineti**  *Associate Research Fellow* Italian Institute for International Political Studies **Lokman Karadag**  *Ph.D. Candidate, Political Science* International Islamic University **Dylan Motin**  *Ph.D. Candidate* Kangwon National University **Abhishek Sharma**  *Ph.D. Candidate* Delhi University **Jamie R. Wothorne**  *MPhil Candidate* University of Oslo **Dr. Nazanin Zadeh-Cummings**  *Lecturer in Humanitarian Studies; Associate Director of Research, Center for Humanitarian Leadership* Deakin University **Yifei Zhu**  *Ph.D. Candidate* Freie Universität Berlin **Susan A. Thornton** *Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cHT3EHObyE&t=1s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: "Overreach: How China Derailed Its Peaceful Rise"](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-overreach-how-china-derailed-its-peaceful-rise/) **Published:** November 18, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **“Overreach: How China Derailed Its Peaceful Rise” A Conversation with Susan L. Shirk** *With Susan L. Shirk* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *November 10, 2022* For three decades after Mao’s death in 1976, China’s leaders adopted a restrained approach to foreign policy. They determined that any threat to their power, and that of the Chinese Communist Party, came not from abroad but from within—a conclusion cemented by the 1989 Tiananmen crisis. To facilitate the country’s inexorable economic ascendance, and to prevent a backlash, they reassured the outside world of China’s peaceful intentions. Then something changed. China went from fragile superpower to global heavyweight, threatening Taiwan as well as its neighbors in the South China Sea, tightening its grip on Hong Kong, and openly challenging the United States for preeminence not just economically and technologically but militarily. **Susan Shirk** is a Research Professor and Chair of the 21st Century China Center at the School of Global Policy and Strategy, UC San Diego. From 1997-2000, she served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, with responsibility for China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Mongolia. Shirk’s book *China: Fragile Superpower* helped frame the policy debate on China in the U.S. and other countries. Her other publications include *The Political Logic of Economic Reform in China; How China Opened its Door*; *Competitive Comrades: Career Incentives and Student Strategies in China*; and her edited book, *Changing Media, Changing China*. Her articles have appeared in leading academic publications in the fields of political science, international relations, and China studies. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZMaMWFUedA) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Future of U.S.-China Tech Competition](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-future-of-us-china-tech-competition/) **Published:** October 18, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Future of U.S.-China Tech Competition** *Samm Sacks, Kendra Schaefer, and Paul Triolo* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *October 7, 2022* Is the US-China tech rivalry leading the world’s two biggest economies into inevitable conflict? How far will tech decoupling across the Pacific go and what will the effects be on growth, investment and trade?  How should we think about the future of tech and data regulation and integration vs. competition? These are crucial questions not just for today’s decision makers, and they will certainly shape our security, economic and technology landscape for decades to come. ##### Featured Panelists: **Samm Sacks,** *Senior Fellow,* Yale Law School Paul Tsai China Center *Cyber Policy Fellow,* New America **Kendra Schaefer,** *Head of Tech Policy Research*, Trivium China **Paul Triolo**, *Senior Vice President for China & Technology Policy Lead*, Dentons Global Advisors **Susan A. Thornton,** *Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security,* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xem0CKKs_6k) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: The Legacy of Gorbachev](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-legacy-of-gorbachev-russias-foreign-policy-past-future/) **Published:** October 3, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The Legacy of Gorbachev:** **Russia’s Foreign Policy Past & Future Trajectories** *With Paula J. Dobriansky, Jack F. Matlock, and Raymond Smith* *Moderated by Thomas E. Graham* *September 28, 2022* Mikhail Sergeyevich Gorbachev was the last serving leader of the Soviet Union. His tenure (1985-1991) is notable for thawing relations with the West and marking the end of the Cold War. He was acclaimed for exercising military restraint when communist regimes split across the Eastern Bloc, granting domestic freedom of the press and international movement, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990 for the fall of the Berlin Wall, which led to the dissolution of the Iron Curtain. Mr. Gorbachev’s great reform projects called “glasnost” (openness) and “perestroika” (change) promised more transparency, modification of the state-control economy, as well as restructuring of the Soviet systems by allowing multi-candidate elections. Like many transitional leaders, he was caught between the criticisms from communist hardliners who considered his reforms too liberal, and liberals arguing that change was not happening fast enough. Despite such enterprises, how did Gorbachev’s efforts backfire? After a tempted coup by nationalists and his house arrest on August 19, 1991, Gorbachev resigned as General Secretary, de facto leader, on December 25 that year; hence, signifying an unintentional collapse of the Soviet Union. How should the U.S. and the West remember Mikhail Gorbachev as a statesman? How should we discern his accomplishments from the tribulations? What conditions in the Soviet Union led to this transitional period? And, what unique lessons can the U.S. and Russia learn from Gorbachev’s legacy? ##### Featured Panelists: **Ambassador Paula J. Dobriansky** *Vice Chair*, Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, Atlantic Council *Former Director of European and Soviet Affairs*, National Security Council **Ambassador Jack F. Matlock, Jr.** *U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union (1987 – 1991)* **Dr. Raymond Smith** *Author of “Negotiating with the Soviets, The Craft of Political Analysis”* **Thomas E. Graham** *Distinguished Fellow*, Council on Foreign Relations [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cZiL3zZuH4) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: A Conversation with Author, Ali Wyne](https://ncafp.org/resources/a-conversation-with-ali-wyne/) **Published:** July 27, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **“America’s Great-Power Opportunity:** **Revitalizing U.S. Foreign Policy to Meet the Challenges of Strategic Competition”** *With Ali Wyne* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *July 21, 2022* The Biden administration faces significant economic, diplomatic, and political challenges at home and aboard. Some analysts have argued that America’s global influence is waning and should be selective about how to utilize resources overseas, given the costly wars in the Middle East as well as the deepening polarization of public institutions. Does Washington still hold a competitive advantage, economically or diplomatically on the world stage? How should the U.S. redistribute its presence in the geopolitical paradigm? Does America risk losing its foothold as a global leader while managing its contentious relationships with China and Russia? Given these circumstances, can America forge a new foreign policy that includes strong partnerships, confidence in institutions, and a balance of introspection and resolve? Susan A. Thornton, NCAFP’s Project Director for the Forum of Asia Pacific Security, spoke with Ali Wyne about these complexities in his latest book, *America’s Great-Power Opportunity: Revitalizing U.S. Foreign Policy to Meet the Challenges of Strategic Competition*. **Ali Wyne** is a senior analyst with Eurasia Group’s Global Macro-Geopolitics practice, focusing on US-China relations and great-power competition. He has served as a junior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a research assistant at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, and a policy analyst at the RAND Corporation. Ali has also been a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security and a nonresident fellow at the Modern War Institute. He received dual bachelor’s degrees in management science and political science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and earned his master’s in public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHEbYn8zeA0) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Regional Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Prospects for Cooperation on the North Korean Nuclear Issue](https://ncafp.org/resources/prospects-for-cooperation-on-the-north-korean-nuclear-issue/) **Published:** July 22, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Breaking the Impasse: Prospects for Cooperation on the North Korean Nuclear Issue** *With Patricia M. Kim, Li Nan, Lim Eunjung, and Zhao Tong* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *July 22, 2022* The North Korean nuclear issue continues to be overshadowed by international and regional events this year despite the increase in missile testing and reported preparations for a seventh nuclear test. The world remains focused on the war in Ukraine and its implications beyond Europe, further heightening US-China tensions and geostrategic competition. In Seoul, a new conservative administration has taken office, promising a more global US-ROK alliance and ‘peace through strength.’ In this evolving security environment, what are the prospects for diplomacy with the DPRK on the nuclear issue? ##### Featured Panelists: **Dr. Patricia M. Kim**  *David M. Rubenstein Fellow – Foreign Policy* Brookings Institution **Dr. Li Nan** *Senior Research Fellow, Institute of American Studies* Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) **Professor Lim Eunjung** *Associate Professor, Division of International Studies* Kongju National University **Dr. Zhao Tong** *Senior Fellow, Nuclear Policy Program* Carnegie Endowment for International Peace *Visiting Research Scholar* Princeton University **Susan A. Thornton** *Project Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpLspe31aB8&t=6s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: "Lessons from the Edge" A Conversation with Amb. Marie Yovanovitch](https://ncafp.org/resources/lessons-from-the-edge-a-conversation-with-amb-marie-yovanovitch/) **Published:** May 6, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **“Lessons From The Edge” A Conversation With U.S. Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch** *With Marie Yovanovitch Moderated by Susan M. Elliott June 13, 2022* The NCAFP hosted former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, **Marie Yovanovitch**, for an in-person discussion on her recently published memoir, *Lessons from the Edge.* During the conversation, Ambassador Yovanovitch outlined the strategic opportunities and challenges presented by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its threat to global peace and stability. **Marie Yovanovitch** is a Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a non-Resident Fellow at the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy, Georgetown University.  Previously, she served as the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine (2016-2019), the Republic of Armenia (2008-2011) and the Kyrgyz Republic (2005-2008).  She also served as the Dean of the School of Language Studies at the Foreign Service Institute, U.S. Department of State and as the Deputy Commandant and International Advisor at the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy, National Defense University.  Earlier she served as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, where she coordinated policy on European and global security issues.  Before that, she was the bureau’s Deputy Assistant Secretary responsible for issues related to the Nordic, Baltic, and Central European countries. In 2003-2004, Ambassador Yovanovitch was the Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs.  Prior to that, she was the Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine.  Within the Department of State, Ambassador Yovanovitch has worked on the Russia desk, the Office of European Security Affairs, and the Operations Center.  She has also worked overseas at the U.S. Embassies in Moscow, London, Ottawa, and Mogadishu. A Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ambassador Yovanovitch has earned the Senior Foreign Service Performance Award eight times and the State Department’s Superior Honor Award on nine occasions.  She has also received two Presidential Distinguished Service Awards and the Secretary’s Diplomacy in Human Rights Award. Following her retirement in 2020, Ambassador Yovanovitch received the Trainor Award for Excellence in the Conduct of Diplomacy from Georgetown University, the inaugural Richard G. Lugar Award from Indiana University, the 2020 PEN/Benenson Courage Award from Pen/America, the  Morgenthau Award from the Armenian Assembly of America, the American Spirit Award for Distinguished Public Service from the Common Good, and the Paul H. Douglas Award for Ethics in Government.  Ambassador Yovanovitch graduated from Princeton University, where she earned a BA in History and Russian Studies.  She studied at the Pushkin Institute and received an M.S. from the National Defense University. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5OPeDnVh_M) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Deterring Russia's Biological, Chemical and Nuclear Threat](https://ncafp.org/resources/biological-chemical-and-nuclear-weapons-can-the-west-deter-russia-from-using-them/) **Published:** April 11, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Biological, Chemical and Nuclear Weapons: Can the West Deter Russia From Using Them?** *With Andy Weber and Ankit Panda* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *April 4, 2022* On February 27 President Vladimir Putin ordered Russia’s nuclear deterrent forces to be put on high alert, sending shockwaves through Europe and the international community. As the conflict has drawn on longer than anticipated, U.S. intelligence officials have warned of Putin’s “back against the wall” escalations. More recently, on March 11th, Russian propaganda outlets accused the U.S. of funding and harboring biological weapons facilities in Ukraine. Although these claims are false, the Kremlin’s misinformation campaign has signaled to Russia-watchers and intelligence officials that Putin is fabricating information and messaging to justify his own intention to authorize chemical, biological, or a possible small tactical nuclear weapon. How can the U.S., Europe Union, and Allies brace for a possible Russian chemical or biological weapons attack in Ukraine? Are there lessons the U.S. has learned from the failure to respond to chemical weapons use in Syria in 2013?  How might Western countries prevent, mitigate, or respond to such an attack? How could NATO, the U.S., and Allies respond while trying to prevent further escalations? ##### Featured Panelists: **Honorable Andy Weber** *Senior Fellow*, Council on Strategic Risks’ Former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Defense Programs **Ankit Panda** *Stanton Senior Fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program*, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott** *President & CEO*, NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlZHQL8qMUY) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: The Future of Trade & Connectivity: Views from the Quad](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-the-future-of-trade-connectivity-views-from-the-quad/) **Published:** March 31, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The Future of Trade and Connectivity in Asia: Views from Quad Countries** *With Shiro Armstrong, Wendy Cutler, Naoko Munakata, and Amitendu Palit* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *March 29, 2022* While the Biden administration prioritizes cooperation with allies and partners that share common interests in free and open civil societies—including through mechanisms like the Quad—the countries of the Indo-Pacific are focused on trade, development, and connectivity as the foundation for regional prosperity. As the specific details of the US’ Indo-Pacific Economic Framework are yet to be revealed, two mega-regional trade agreements—the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)—are moving forward without US participation. How do Quad countries view trade and investment trends in the region and what are their priorities? How does the U.S. Indo-Pacific Economic Framework align with each Quad member’s interests in deepening economic partnerships and regional integration? ##### **Featured Panelists:** **Professor Shiro Armstrong** *Director, East Asian Bureau of Economic Research; Assoc. Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy* Australian National University **Wendy Cutler** *Vice President* Asia Society Policy Institute **Professor Naoko Munakata** *Professor, Graduate School of Public Policy* University of Tokyo **Dr. Amitendu Palit** *Senior Research Fellow & Research Lead (Trade & Economics), Institute of South Asian Studies* National University of Singapore **Susan A. Thornton** *Project Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfnJDG1GSCw) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: 600 Years of China-Korea Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/empire-righteous-nation-600-years-of-china-korea-relations/) **Published:** February 16, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **“Empire and Righteous Nation: 600 Years of China-Korea Relations”** *With Odd Arne Westad* *Moderated by Kathleen Stephens* *February 15, 2022* Yale University Elihu Professor of History **Odd Arne Westad** discussed his book *Empire and Righteous Nation: 600 Years of China-Korea Relations*, with Korea Society Board Chair Ambassador (ret.) **Kathleen Stephens**. The program was hosted jointly with the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), with an introduction by NCAFP President and CEO Ambassador (ret.) **Susan Elliott**. ##### Featured Panelists: **Odd Arne Westad** is a scholar of modern international and global history, with a specialization in the history of eastern Asia since the 18th century.  He is Elihu Professor of History at Yale University.  His latest work, *Empire and Righteous Nation: 600 Years of China-Korea Relations*, explores the cultural and political relationship between China and the Koreas over the past 600 years. Illuminating both the ties and the tensions that have characterized the China–Korea relationship, *Empire and Righteous Nation* provides a valuable foundation for understanding a critical geopolitical dynamic. Westad has published sixteen books, most of which deal with twentieth century Asian and global history. In the first part of his career, Westad was mainly preoccupied with the history of the Cold War, China-Russia relations, and the history of the Chinese civil war and the Chinese Communist Party.  He published two monographs, Cold War and Revolution, which deals with US and Soviet intervention in the Chinese Civil War in 1944-1946, and Decisive Encounters, which is a general history of the Chinese civil war and the Communist victory in the period from 1946 to 1950. Today, Westad is mainly interested in researching histories of empire and imperialism, first and foremost in Asia, but also world-wide.  He is also trying to figure out how China’s late twentieth century economic reforms came into being and how their results changed the global economy. Westad joined the faculty at Yale after teaching at the London School of Economics, where he was School Professor of International History, and at Harvard University, where he was the S.T. Lee Professor of US-Asia Relations.  He is a fellow of the British Academy and of several other national academies. **Ambassador (ret.) Kathleen Stephens** is a former American diplomat. She was U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea 2008-2011. She is currently Board Chair of The Korea Society and President & CEO of the Korea Economic Institute. Korea has been a leitmotif of Ambassador Stephens’ life and career since she served in rural Korea as a Peace Corps volunteer and trainer, 1975-1977. She was in Korea 1983-1989, first as a political officer at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul reporting on Korea’s domestic political and human rights scene, and later leading the U.S. Consulate in Busan. Other overseas assignments included postings to China, former Yugoslavia, Portugal, Northern Ireland, where she was U.S. Consul General in Belfast during the negotiations culminating in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, and India, where she was U.S. Charge ‘d Affaires (2014-2015). Ambassador Stephens also served in a number of policy positions in Washington at the Department of State and the White House. These included acting Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs (2012), Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs (2005-2007), Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs (2003-2005), and National Security Council Director for European Affairs at the Clinton White House. Stephens was William J. Perry Fellow for Korea at Stanford University 2015-2018. She is a Mansfield Foundation Distinguished Fellow, Pacific Century Institute board chairman, vice-chair of the board of trustees for The Asia Foundation, and board chair of The Korea Society. She has been President and CEO of the Korea Economic Institute of America since September 2018, based in Washington, DC. **Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott**, is an accomplished diplomat with an earned doctorate from Indiana University. During her 27-year diplomatic career, Ambassador Elliott held a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. She became President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy in August 2018. From 2015 to 2017, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her Ambassadorial appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Ambassador Elliott worked on the staff of former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice as a Deputy Executive Secretary and Director of the Executive Secretariat Staff. Earlier in her career she reported on conflicts in the countries of the former Soviet Union when she worked in the Office of the Coordinator for Regional Conflicts in the New Independent States. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCW65VAwkZc&t=1s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Assessing Russian Policy in the 21st Century](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-assessing-russian-policy-in-the-21st-century/) **Published:** February 10, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Assessing Russian Policy in the 21st Century** *With Pavel K. Baev, Dimitar Bechev, and Martha Brill Olcott* *Moderated by Thomas Graham* *February 17, 2022* Tensions are at an all time high in Eastern Europe and beyond, as Russian forces gather en masse along the Ukrainian border while NATO allies reinforce their own positions in the region. As the international community attempts to avoid war, how can the U.S. rely on diplomacy to deter a Russian invasion? And what is Russia’s ultimate strategy in the 21st century? ##### Featured Panelists: **Pavel K. Baev** *Nonresident Senior Fellow*, *Center on the United States and Europe,*  Brookings Institution **Dimitar Bechev** *Lecturer, Oxford School of Global and Area Studies (OSGA)* University of Oxford **Martha Brill Olcott** *Former Senior Associate, Russia and Eurasia Program and Co-Director,*  Carnegie Endowment for International Peace **Thomas Graham** *Distinguished Fellow*, Council on Foreign Relations *Former Senior Director for Russia*, National Security Council [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=px-SIHw1mqQ) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Next-Gen Perspectives On Multilateralism In The Asia Pacific](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-next-gen-perspectives-multilateralism-in-the-asia-pacific/) **Published:** February 7, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Next-Gen Perspectives On Multilateralism In The Asia Pacific** *With Blake Berger, Gibum Kim, Yuka Koshino, and Alyssa Leng* *Moderated by Andrew Yeo February 7, 2022* As international connectivity and globalization continue to deepen, there exists an urgent need for heightened multilateral cooperation on transnational security and economic challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, amid other emergent concerns, has laid bare the global dissatisfaction with what are considered ineffective and outdated international institutions. Geopolitical competition also engulfs these institutions and regional frameworks for cooperation, resulting in the proliferation of new and separate arrangements—especially in the Asia Pacific. These new organizations or agreements are often exclusive to particular country groupings or strategic interests, rather than a focus on functional or supplemental needs. With much debate over how and why multilateralism became ineffective and mired in intractable political posturing, what is needed now more than ever is a discussion of how to address challenges to, and find paths forward for multilateral engagement. The NCAFP convened a panel of distinguished emerging leaders, who are at the forefront of addressing this complex web of policy challenges, as they shared their perspectives and policy recommendations for reimagined multilateralism in the Asia Pacific. ##### Featured Panelists: **Blake Berger** *Assistant Director,* Asia Society Policy Institute **Gibum Kim** *Associate Research Fellow,* Korea Institute for Defense Analyses **Yuka Koshino** *Research Fellow for Security and Technology,* International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) **Alyssa Leng** *Research Fellow* and *Economist,* Power and Diplomacy Program, Lowy Institute **Professor Andrew Yeo** Senior Fellow & SK-Korea Foundation Chair in Korea Studies, Brookings Institution *Professor of Politics & Director of Asian Studies,* The Catholic University of America [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOfC1q9P) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Next-Gen Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/read-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) **Published:** December 15, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Next Generation Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security: Policy Recommendations from an Emerging Leaders Workshop** *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *December 16, 2021* Throughout the year, the NCAFP held an Emerging Leaders Workshop of ten next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to discuss issues related to Korean Peninsula security. The Emerging Leaders shared their research and analysis on a variety of topics that deserve reexamination at this critical juncture. These include: - The North Korean nuclear challenge and prospects for renewed dialogue - US alliance management and expanded US-South Korea cooperation - South Korea’s engagement with Southeast Asia - Assessing Chinese coercion and strategic thinking [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_bEMLlUMSM&t=347s) To conclude the workshop, the NCAFP is pleased to share this [edited volume](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/FINAL_NCAFP-Emerging-Leaders-Edited-Volume-2021.pdf) of the Emerging Leaders’ policy papers on *Next Generation Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security.* [Click Here to Listen to the Podcast](https://ncafp.org/next-gen-korean-peninsula-specialists-podcast-series/) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes, Events, Past Webinars & Events, Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Striking the Balance: China's Response to a DPRK Contingency](https://ncafp.org/resources/striking-the-balance-chinas-response-to-a-dprk-contingency/) **Published:** April 7, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** In his paper, **“Striking the Balance: China’s Response to a North Korean Contingency,”** Shaquille James presents multiple scenarios and types of responses China could take in the event of a North Korean contingency that may result from internal instability. To better understand the different responses, he provides a historical overview of Chinese intervention into the Korean War in 1950 and outlines China’s current geopolitical interests and military capabilities. Read his full paper below and learn more about our Emerging Leaders! [Read Shaquille’s Paper](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Shaquille-James-paper_Final.pdf) [Read the Full Edited Volume](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/FINAL_NCAFP-Emerging-Leaders-Edited-Volume-2021.pdf) **Shaquille H. James** is currently a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and he operates the Minuteman III nuclear ICBM weapon system as a Missile Combat Crew Commander. Before joining the USAF, he studied Linguistics and Asian Studies at Georgetown University. During his time at Georgetown, he worked, volunteered, and networked extensively in the areas of North Korean human rights and affairs—this included hosting speaker events for defectors and North Korea experts at his university, working with and interning at North Korea-focused think tanks and organizations, researching North Korea-related issues for articles and papers, as well as learning the Korean language. Shaquille used his familiarity with the Korean language to build and maintain strong and ongoing rapports with North Korean defectors living in South Korea and the U.S., in part to better his understanding of North Korea as a society. While on active duty, Shaquille uses his background in Asian studies to build East Asia-focused briefings and presentations for USAF linguists, foreign area officers, and other personnel interested in East Asian affairs. His briefings are ongoing and often feature high-ranking officers and actively deployed foreign attachés. In the future, Shaquille desires to become a Foreign Area Officer and work either in China, Taiwan, South Korea, or, if the U.S. ever establishes a presence there, North Korea. In addition to becoming a sound technical expert in his core specialty (ICBMs), Shaquille’s study and professional development typically focuses on better preparing himself for assuming the role of an FAO in the future. **Content Type:** Edited Volumes, Reports **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [WATCH: Engagement Revisited: Progress Made & Lessons Learned](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-engagement-revisited-progress-made-lessons-learned/) **Published:** September 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Engagement Revisited: Progress Made & Lessons Learned in the US-China Strategic & Economic Dialogue** *With Tiffany Barron, Rorry Daniels, Dan Jasper, and Susan A. Thornton* *Moderated by Steve Orlins* *September 13, 2021* U.S.-China relations are arguably at their worst point since diplomatic recognition in 1979, and may be getting worse. In this environment, American researchers organized by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and the American Friends Service Committee undertook a systematic audit of the U.S.-China Strategic & Economic Dialogue (S&ED) to see what benefits were expected from bilateral diplomacy in the past and whether those benefits were realized. The report that emerged reveals that the United States benefited significantly from the S&ED process. Major areas of progress include stabilizing the international financial system after the global financial crisis, working through regulatory and technical issues culminating in the Paris Agreement, and jointly responding to the Ebola crisis in West Africa. On September 13, 2021 the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations hosted a virtual program where **Tiffany Barron**, **Rorry Daniels**, **Dan Jasper**, and **Susan Thornton** discussed the successes and challenges of the S&ED process. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zjbAzReKNs) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Afghanistan in Perspective](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-afghanistan-in-perspective/) **Published:** September 10, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Afghanistan in Perspective** *With P. Michael McKinley and Annie Pforzheimer* *Moderated by Karl W. Eikenberry* *September 10, 2021* For nearly twenty years the United States and allied forces maintained a substantial military, civic, and humanitarian presence in Afghanistan.  However, with the withdrawal of forces looming, the world has watched in shock as the Taliban rapidly retook nearly the entire country within days, setting into motion a humanitarian and migration crisis of tremendous proportions.  What are the circumstances that brought us to this point, and importantly, what comes next? ##### Featured Panelists: **Ambassador P. Michael McKinley** *Former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan (2014-16) Senior Counselor*, The Cohen Group **Annie Pforzheimer** *Former Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy Kabul (2017-18)* *Senior Associate (Non-resident),* Center for Strategic & International Studies **Ambassador Karl W. Eikenberry** *Former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan (2009-11)* *Trustee,* National Committee on American Foreign Policy [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmvXzh57nxs) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Central Asia, Middle East **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Analyzing the 2021 Iranian Elections](https://ncafp.org/resources/video-analyzing-the-2021-iranian-elections/) **Published:** June 25, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **New Leadership, New Direction?: Analyzing the 2021 Iranian Elections** *With Ali Alfoneh, Barbara Slavin, and Alex Vatanka* *Moderated by Dina Esfandiary January 25, 2021* In June, Iranians will head to the polls to cast their votes for President Hassan Rouhani’s successor. COVID-19 recovery, shifting alliances in the region, and the resumption of talks with the United States will all undoubtedly play a role in how voters approach this year’s presidential elections. Please join the NCAFP as we host an esteemed panel of experts who will weigh in on the election results, and what its political outcomes might mean for the country’s diplomatic relationship with the United States. ##### Featured Panelists: **Ali Alfoneh** *Senior Fellow*, Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington **Barbara Slavin** *Director, Future of Iran Initiative*, Atlantic Council **Alex Vatanka** *Director of Iran Program and Senior Fellow*, Middle East Institute **Dina Esfandiary** *Senior Advisor*, International Crisis Group [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8f5Z4xaqqVI&t=2745s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2021 --- ### [EVENT: Then and Now: 30 Years of U.S.-Kazakh Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-then-and-now-30-years-of-u-s-kazakh-relations/) **Published:** October 13, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Then and Now: 30 Years of U.S.-Kazakh Relations** *With Yerzhan Ashikbayev, George A. Krol, Bolat Nurgaliev, and John M. Ordway* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *October 20, 2021* In late 1991, the Republic of Kazakhstan declared its independence from the then-USSR.  Only days later, the United States and the fledgling republic opened diplomatic relations, and have remained stalwart partners for 30 years across a range of issues, including regional engagement, nuclear security and nonproliferation, and economic cooperation.  The  NCAFP partnered with the Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in New York to look back on 30 years of partnership between the United States and Kazakhstan, and look forward to areas for continued cooperation in the future. *Hosted in cooperation with the Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan of New York.* ##### Featured Panelists: **His Excellency Yerzhan Ashikbayev** *Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the U.S.* **George A. Krol** *Former U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan* **Bolat Nurgaliev** *Former Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the U.S.* **John M. Ordway** *Former U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan* **Susan M. Elliott** *President and Chief Executive Officer* National Committee on American Foreign Policy **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Central Asia **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Prospect for Progress on North Korea & N.E. Asian Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-prospect-for-progress-on-north-korea-n-e-asian-security/) **Published:** June 16, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Prospect For Progress On North Korea and North East Asian Security** *With Ichikawa Tomiko, Frank Jannuzi, Kim Jina, Ivan Timofeev, Zha Daojiong*  *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *June 16, 2021* The issue of resuming diplomacy with North Korea after the failed Hanoi summit between the US and the DPRK has been overshadowed by both pandemic management and rising geostrategic competition between the US and China. The incoming Biden administration has completed a North Korea policy review and signaled willingness to engage directly with the DPRK, under the right conditions. In these new circumstances, what are the prospects for diplomacy on the North Korea nuclear issue, pandemic recovery, and areas of general policy friction between the five countries of the Six-Party Talks? Where do international institutions fit into the diplomatic process? ##### Featured Panelists: **Ichikawa Tomiko** *Director General* The Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA) **Frank Jannuzi** *President & CEO* The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation **Kim Jina** *Research Fellow* Korea Institute for Defense Analyses (KIDA) **Dr. Ivan Timofeev** *Director of Programs* Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC) **Professor Zha Daojiong** *Professor, School of International Studies* Peking University **Susan A. Thornton** *Project Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-prospect-for-progress-on-north-korea-n-e-asian-security/?preview=true) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Moscow in Focus: Perspectives on U.S.-Russia Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-moscow-in-focus-perspectives-on-us-russia-relations/) **Published:** April 20, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Moscow in Focus: Perspectives on U.S.-Russia Relations** *With Fiona Hill and John Tefft* *Moderated by Thomas E. Graham* *May 12, 2021* The relationship between Moscow and Washington continues to decay. From misinformation campaigns, to electoral interference, to new (and renewed) sanctions regimes, a path toward more amicable relations simply does not seem near at hand. In the context of a new U.S. Administration, and shifting geopolitics, where can US-Russia relations go from here? ##### Featured Panelist: **Fiona Hill** *Robert Bosch Senior Fellow*, Brookings Institution *Former Senior Director for European and Russian Affairs, National Security Council* **Ambassador John Tefft** *Senior Fellow,* RAND Corporation *Former US Ambassador to the Russian Federation* **Thomas E. Graham** *Distinguished Fellow,* Council on Foreign Relations *Former Senior Director for Russia, National Security Council* [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTD6jgBw8Q4) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: A Conversation with Ryan Hass & Susan Thornton](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-a-conversation-with-ryan-l-hass/) **Published:** April 12, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **“Stronger: Adapting America’s China Strategy in an Age of Competitive Interdependence” A Conversation with Ryan L. Hass** *With Ryan L. Hass* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *April 13, 2021* How should we consider US-China relations, bilaterally and in the world, given both the ties of globalization and the differences in political systems? Are the two countries destined for an all-encompassing zero-sum, win-lose dynamic despite the consequences both would suffer as a result? Ryan Hass, in his book*, Stronger: Adapting America’s China Strategy in an Age of Competitive Interdependence,* asks us to reconsider the inevitability of China’s rise and American decline, arguing from his considerable experience in and outside of government that the US can effectively meet the China challenge by reinvesting in America’s enduring strengths. Please join the NCAFP to hear Mr. Hass speak about his blueprint for US-China relations in the 21st century—what new opportunities and challenges are evident and how should the US advance its interests within and outside of the bilateral relationship? **Ryan Hass** is a senior fellow and the Michael H. Armacost Chair in the Foreign Policy program at Brookings, where he holds a joint appointment to the John L. Thornton China Center and the Center for East Asia Policy Studies. He is also the Interim Chen-Fu and Cecilia Yen Koo Chair in Taiwan Studies. He was part of the inaugural class of David M. Rubenstein fellows at Brookings, and is a nonresident affiliated fellow in the Paul Tsai China Center at Yale Law School. Hass focuses his research and analysis on enhancing policy development on the pressing political, economic, and security challenges facing the United States in East Asia. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW51idLSjbU&t=414s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2021 --- ### [WATCH: Conducting Elections in the Time of COVID-19](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-conducting-elections-in-the-time-of-covid-19/) **Published:** July 9, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Conducting Elections in the Time of COVID-19** *With John Delury* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *June 9, 2020* Please join the NCAFP as we host Professor **John Delury** for a discussion on how South Korea recently conducted its legislative elections amid the COVID-19 pandemic. He will offer a brief presentation, and will also take questions from the audience. This program was moderated by **Susan A. Thornton**, the Project Director of the NCAFP. Please read Professor Delury’s recent New York Times op-ed, **[“How Democracy Won the World’s First Coronavirus Election”](http://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/16/opinion/south-korea-election-coronavirus.html)**. John Delury is Professor of Chinese Studies at Yonsei University Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS), where he serves as chair of the Master’s Program in International Cooperation at GSIS, chair of the undergraduate Program in International Studies at Yonsei’s Underwood International College (UIC), and director of the Center on Oceania Studies. John is the author, with Orville Schell, of Wealth and Power: China’s Long March to the Twenty-first Century, published by Random House, and he is currently working on a book on US-China relations in the early Cold War. He publishes widely in academic journals as well as outlets such as Foreign Affairs and The New York Times, and is associate managing editor of the quarterly magazine Global Asia, published by the East Asia Foundation in Seoul. John is on the NCAFP 21st Century Leaders Council. He is a member of the Council of Foreign Relations, National Committee on US-China Relations, National Committee on North Korea, board member of Pacific Century Institute, senior fellow of the Asia Society, and adjunct fellow of the Center on Strategic and International Studies. He is a member of the Republic of Ireland’s foreign affairs advisory network, and is frequently invited to offer his analysis on East Asian affairs with government, military, corporate, and civil society organizations. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5kvxR6DqCQ&t=10s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: A Conversation with H.R. McMaster](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-now-a-conversation-with-h-r-mcmaster/) **Published:** June 10, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **U.S. Policy in Uncertain Times: A Conversation with H.R. McMaster** *With H.R. McMaster* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *June 9, 2020* On Tuesday, June 9th, the NCAFP had the pleasure of hosting LTG (ret.) H.R. McMaster for a wide-ranging discussion on the changing policy landscape amid the current pandemic.  General McMaster was the 26th assistant to the president for National Security Affairs. He concurrently served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army for thirty-four years before retiring as a Lieutenant General in June 2018.  He is a 1984 graduate of the United States Military Academy and received his PhD in military history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tX5mt8xojrg&t=9s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2020 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: A Conversation with Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti](https://ncafp.org/resources/a-conversation-with-gen-curtis-scaparrotti/) **Published:** April 29, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **A Conversation with General Curtis Scaparrotti** *With Curtis Scaparrotti* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *April 29, 2020* On April 29, the National Committee hosted a virtual roundtable featuring [General (ret.) **Curtis Scaparrotti**](http://www.cohengroup.net/our-people/curtis-scaparrotti).  Moderated by NCAFP President Susan Elliott, General Scaparrotti discussed a range of issues, including NATO, U.S.-Russia relations, U.S. policy on the Korean peninsula, and U.S.-China relations.  Held under the Chatham House Rule, the discussion offered the opportunity for NCAFP Patron and Sponsor members to gain candid insights into General Scaparrotti’s breadth of experiences. In 2019, General Scaparrotti completed a distinguished 41-year career in the US Army as the Commander, US European Command and Supreme Allied Commander Europe, NATO. As the NATO Commander, General Scaparrotti worked to preserve the security and stability of the Alliance and strengthen it in the face of traditional and new-age adversaries. He collaborated with the leadership of all 29 NATO member nations, as well as the various NATO partner countries around the world. Prior to General Scaparrotti’s leadership position at NATO and US European Command, General Scaparrotti served as the Commander of US Forces Korea / United Nations Command / Combined Forces Command in Seoul, South Korea from 2013 to 2016. He has also served as the Director of the Joint Staff, Commander of the International Security Assistance Force, the Deputy Commander of US Forces – Afghanistan, the Commanding General of I Corps and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and the Commanding General of the 82nd Airborne Division. General Scaparrotti graduated from the US Military Academy at West Point in 1978. His military education includes the Infantry Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Command and General Staff College, and the US Army War College. Additionally, General Scaparrotti holds a Master’s degree in Administrative Education from the University of South Carolina. Now a Senior Counselor with The Cohen Group, General Scaparrotti is a member of the Board of Directors of the Atlantic Council, a member of the Advisory Board of the Patriot Foundation, and a Senior Fellow at the National Defense University. **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: A Conversation on Kurdistan](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-a-conversation-on-kurdistan/) **Published:** June 18, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **A Conversation on Kurdistan with Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman** *With Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *June 17, 2020* On Wednesday, June 17, 2020, NCAFP President & CEO **Susan Elliott** hosted a conversation with **Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman**, the Kurdistan Regional Government Representative to the United States. Key to Ms. Abdul Rahman’s role are strengthening ties between Kurdistan and the United States, advocating her government’s position on a wide array of political, security, humanitarian, economic, and cultural matters and promoting coordination and partnership. Prior to her US appointment in 2015, Ms. Abdul Rahman was the High Representative to the United Kingdom. She was elected to the Leadership Council of the Kurdistan Democratic Party in 2010.  Ms. Abdul Rahman discussed a wide range of issues relating to Kurdistan and Iraq and took time to answer questions from our participants.  [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgnaxEP4rk4) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Weaponized Interdependence & Deglobalization](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-weaponized-interdependence-deglobalization/) **Published:** June 18, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Regional Security Architecture of the Asia Pacific: Past, Present and Future** *With Henry Farrell and Abraham Newman Moderated by Rorry Daniels* *June 12, 2020* On Friday, June 12th, the NCAFP held the final discussion in its [China-ROK Emerging Leaders Roundtable Series: Regional Security Architecture of the Asia Pacific: Past, Present and Future](https://ncafp.org/regional-security-architecture-of-the-asia-pacific-past-present-and-future/). The discussion, led by Professor **Henry Farrell** (George Washington University) and Professor **Abraham Newman** (Georgetown University), examined the topic of weaponized interdependence and deglobalization. Professor Farrell and Professor Newman explored questions such as what are the features of “weaponized interdependence”, how are states reacting to the use of coercive leverage, and what do these trends portend for cooperation, competition and conflict in the Asia Pacific. They also discussed the future of interconnectedness and the mounting pressure toward deglobalization as a risk mitigation strategy. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HXEIPNGfyM) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: North Korea in 2025: Next Steps on the Korean Peninsula ](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-north-korea-in-2025-next-steps-on-the-korean-peninsula/) **Published:** July 27, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **North Korea in 2025: Next Steps on the Korean Peninsula**  *With* *Lindsey Ford, Chung Kuyoun, Keith Luse, and Ma Sang Yoon Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *July 24, 2020* While the international community continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the DPRK’s series of missile launches in March and the deterioration of inter-Korean relations in recent months are reminders that much work remains to be done on traditional security issues. Even if little movement is expected in US-DPRK relations before the election in November, the interim period can be used to coordinate policy and build consensus to support short- to medium-term diplomacy. 2025 will mark the 75th anniversary of the start of the Korean War and the conclusion of the next US presidential term. What are the opportunities and challenges for the United States and the Republic of Korea to address the North Korean nuclear issue in the next five years? What are the prospects for improving inter-Korean relations? Join our experts as they assess the next steps the US and the ROK can take to ensure peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region. ##### Panel Discussion Featuring **Dr. Chung Kuyoun** *Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science* Kangwon University **Keith Luse** *Executive Director* The National Committee on North Korea **Lindsey Ford** *David M. Rubenstein Fellow, Foreign Policy* Brookings Institution **Dr. Ma Sang Yoon** *Professor of International Studies* Catholic University of Korea **Susan A. Thornton** *Project Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* National Committee on American Foreign Policy [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1YT6B337AU) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: U.S. Strategy in the Asian Century with Abraham Denmark](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-u-s-strategy-in-the-asian-century-with-abraham-denmark/) **Published:** September 2, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **U.S. Strategy in the Asian Century with Abraham Denmark** *With Abraham M. Denmark* *Moderated by Rorry Daniels* *September 1, 2020* The National Committee on American Foreign Policy hosted 21st Century Leadership Awardee **Abraham M. Denmark** for a discussion on U.S. strategic opportunities and challenges presented by Asia’s dynamic economic rise and its importance to global peace and stability. Drawing on his recently published book, Mr. Denmark outlined an approach that empowers allies and partners to make contributions that advance mutual interests in the region and across the world. **Abraham M. Denmark** is Director of the Asia Program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, and a Senior Fellow at the Center’s Kissinger Institute on China and the United States. He is also an Adjunct Associate Professor at the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. Denmark’s research and policy expertise is in the politics and security of the Indo-Pacific, and in U.S. strategy toward the region. He is the author of the forthcoming book *Empowering Allies: A Strategy for a New Era in the Indo-Pacific,* and is the co-editor of *Strategic Asia 2013-14: Asia in the Second Nuclear Age* (National Bureau of Asian Research, 2013) and *Strategic Asia 2014-15: U.S. Alliances and Partnerships* (NBR, 2014). He has testified multiple times before the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Denmark’s commentary has been featured in several major media outlets, including *Foreign Affairs,* CNN, National Public Radio, the *New York Times,* the *Economist,* the *Financial Times, Foreign Policy*, and the *Atlantic*. Denmark previously served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for East Asia and worked as Senior Vice President for Political and Security Affairs at The National Bureau of Asian Research, a Fellow at the Center for a New American Security, and held several positions in the U.S. Intelligence Community. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2AAMBFCRAE&t=910s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: US-Africa Policy in Perspective](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-us-africa-policy-in-perspective/) **Published:** September 16, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **US-Africa Policy in Perspective** *With Herman J. Cohen, Harry K. Thomas, Jr., and Bisa Williams* *Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *September 16, 2020* Despite being the world’s second-largest and second-most populous continent, there exists a perception that Africa receives minimal attention from policymakers in Washington. Yet, for many years, the United States was the primary trade partner and aid provider for many African nations. However, more recently, other actors, notably China, have stepped in and now play an outsized role in several regions. This has brought the African continent into focus as a significant geopolitical crossroads, and amplified its role in the foreign affairs of the United States. Join the NCAFP as we host a panel of distinguished former diplomats as they discuss their experiences and perspectives on U.S. Africa policy, and what the future of the region holds in store. ##### Featured Panelists: **Herman J. Cohen** *President*, Cohen and Woods International Former Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs **Harry K. Thomas, Jr.** *Kissinger Senior Fellow*, Jackson Institute for Global Affairs, Yale University Senior Strategic Engagement Leader, U.S. Special Operations Command Former Ambassador to Zimbabwe, the Philippines, and Bangladesh **Bisa Williams** *Co-Founder and Managing Director*, Williams Strategy Advisors, LLC Former Ambassador to Niger and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMr8oxfkL44) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Africa **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Strategy in the Indo-Pacific: Voices from the Region](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-strategy-in-the-indo-pacific-voices-from-the-region/) **Published:** September 25, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Strategy in the Indo-Pacific: Voices from the Region** *Glyn T. Davies, Chiew Ping Hoo, Ken Jimbo, and Shafiah Muhibat* *Moderated by Susan A. Thornton* *September 29, 2020* Southeast Asian economies are an increasingly significant part of the global growth equation, due to both population growth and the dynamism of global integration. Against the backdrop of rising US-China geostrategic competition and a decelerating globalization process, major powers like the US and Japan are seeking to deepen regional integration and connectivity while also protecting security interests in service of the region’s needs. However, these strategies are not necessarily cooperative or implemented in deep consultation with the regional recipients. Please join our panelists from the US, Japan and ASEAN member states as they identify the challenges and opportunities in regional strategic competition, especially amid US-China tensions. What are the most critical areas of focus for Southeast Asia? How can the major powers seeking engagement better contribute to regional peace and prosperity? What is the role of ASEAN in the current international environment? ##### Featured Panelists: **Ambassador Glyn T. Davies** *Former U.S. Ambassador to Thailand* U.S. Department of State **Dr. Chiew Ping Hoo** *Senior Lecturer*, Strategic Studies and International Relations Program National University of Malaysia **Professor Ken Jimbo** *Professor, Faculty of Policy Management* Keio University **Dr. Shafiah Muhibat** *Head of Department of International Relations* CSIS Indonesia **Moderated by** Susan A. Thornton *Project Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7iYrZfhvEg) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Evolving Alliances in the Middle East](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-the-new-normal-evolving-alliances-in-the-middle-east/) **Published:** September 29, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The New Normal: Evolving Alliances in the Middle East** *With Hussein Ibish and Aaron David Miller* *Moderated by Susan Elliott* *October 14, 2020* Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates recently joined the small club of Arab countries that have diplomatic relations with the state of Israel. The normalization of relations between Israel and these two Gulf states reflect a shift in priorities in the region, as well as in the Trump administration’s foreign policy strategy in the Middle East. Join the NCAFP as we host a panel of distinguished experts as they discuss their perspectives on these new U.S. brokered alliances, and what the future of the region holds in store. ##### Featured Panelists: **Hussein Ibish** *Senior Resident Scholar*, Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington Weekly columnist for *Bloomberg Opinion* and *The National* (UAE) **Aaron David Miller** *Senior Fellow*, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5aGKTwgPcA&t=3s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Brexit, China-EU Relations & Implications for the US](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-brexit-china-eu-relations-implications-for-the-us/) **Published:** October 21, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## Brexit, China-EU Relations & Implications for the US *With Declan Kelleher Moderated by Susan M. Elliott* *October 29, 2020* By most metrics, the United States, European Union and China are the world’s most important economies and geopolitical actors.  COVID-19 has amplified the importance of the crucial relationships between these global powers and placed a particularly bright spotlight on both the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Brexit and China-EU engagement.  Join the NCAFP and Yale’s Program on Peace and Development as we host Ambassador Declan Kelleher, who previously served as Ireland’s permanent representative to the EU and its ambassador to China, for a unique perspective on how Brexit is affecting intra-European cooperation, notably with regard to Ireland; on  the complex relations between China and Europe, and how these interactions impact the United States. **Declan Kelleher** was the Permanent Representative of Ireland to the European Union in Brussels from September 2013 to March 2020. In that role, he was responsible to the Government of Ireland for the frontline promotion and representation of Ireland’s policies and interests in the EU, including Ireland’s unique position, interests and priorities concerning the crucial negotiations between the EU and the UK which led up to the British withdrawal from the EU in January 2020. Prior to his appointment as Permanent Representative to the EU, he was Ambassador of Ireland to the People’s Republic of China from 2004 to 2013.  From 2000 to 2004, he was the Representative of Ireland to the EU Political and Security Committee in Brussels, which covers foreign and security/defence policy issues, and he was President of that Committee during Ireland’s 2004 Presidency of the European Union. His previous overseas postings were at the Embassy of Ireland in Washington DC (from 1987 to 1991) where he was First Secretary for Press and Political/Congressional Affairs. From 1980 to 1983, he was posted at the Permanent Mission of Ireland to the UN in New York and was a member of Ireland’s delegation to the UN Security Council in 1981-82.  During his career, he has also served in a range of senior posts at the Headquarters of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin, including on Anglo/Irish and Northern Ireland matters; and on foreign policy and EU questions. Prior to entering the service of the Government of Ireland, he worked in the private sector as an economic/financial analyst, specialising in the global marine industry. He graduated from Oxford University (BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics). [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WR1mwFw9B7U&t=773s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: The Future of Global Interdependence](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-the-future-of-global-interdependence/) **Published:** December 4, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Economy, Security, and U.S. Leadership Abroad: The Future of Global Interdependence** *With Jennifer Hillman and Joseph S. Nye, Jr.* *Moderated by Henry Farrell* *December 4, 2020* In October 2020, the NCAFP launched an inaugural series tackling difficult questions surrounding the future of globalization. In a year deeply scarred by a global pandemic, and now edging closer to a significant presidential transition, it is vital to assess the role of the United States in the international system as foreign policy appears to be influenced by domestic policies and concerns more than ever before. With an eye toward coercive economic policies, trade, and global governance, can a leadership role still be played by the United States on the international stage? What style of global engagement will reap the greatest benefits for U.S. policy? Will regional or thematic reorganization coopt extant multilateral institutions? ##### Featured Panelists: **Jennifer Hillman** *Senior Fellow for Trade and International Political Economy,* Council on Foreign Relations **Joseph S. Nye, Jr.** *Harvard University Distinguished Service Professor, Emeritus* Harvard Kennedy School **Henry Farrell** *Stavros Niarchos Foundation Agora Institute Professor of International Affairs, and* *Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies* Johns Hopkins University [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pN_BXGm-how) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Navigating U.S.- Russia Relations and Negotiating New START](https://ncafp.org/resources/far-from-reset/) **Published:** May 6, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Far From Reset: Navigating U.S.- Russia Relations and Negotiating New START** *With Thomas E. Graham and Laura M. Kennedy Moderated by Susan M. Elliott May 6, 2020* Dr. **Thomas E. Graham** and Ambassador (ret.) **Laura M. Kennedy’s** conversation explored several different areas in the U.S.-Russia relationship, including whether to extend the New START treaty, originally signed in 2010 under Presidents Barack Obama and Dmitry Medvedev. Following the U.S. withdrawal from the INF Treaty last year, there has been much speculation on New START’s future and what it will mean for the U.S.-Russia relationship. The program was moderated by Ambassador (ret.) **Susan Elliott**, President and CEO of the NCAFP. ##### Featured Panelists: **Thomas E. Graham** is a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. He is also currently a senior advisor at Kissinger Associates, Inc., where he focuses on Russian and Eurasian affairs. He is a cofounder of the Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies program at Yale University and sits on its faculty steering committee. Graham was special assistant to the president and senior director for Russia on the National Security Council staff from 2004 to 2007, during which he managed a White House-Kremlin strategic dialogue. He was director for Russian affairs on the staff from 2002 to 2004. **Ambassador Laura M. Kennedy** is a foreign affairs expert who served for nearly 40 years with the U.S. Foreign Service. She was Ambassador to Turkmenistan (2001-3), Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs (2004-5), taught and served as Deputy Commandant at the National War College (2007-9), and was appointed U.S. Permanent Representative to the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva and Special Representative for Biological Weapons Convention Issues (2010-13). After retiring, she was recalled to active service in May 2014 to serve as Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan until September 2014 and then as Charge at the U. S. Mission to the United Nations in Vienna and a member of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency until July 2015. Amb. Kennedy is an elected member of the American Academy of Diplomacy and serves on the Boards of the State Department’s Senior Seminar Association and the World Affairs Council of DC. [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pN_BXGm-how) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Cyber Security & U.S. Foreign Policy](https://ncafp.org/resources/watch-cyber-security-u-s-foreign-policy/) **Published:** March 23, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Cyber Security and U.S. Foreign Policy: Addressing Strategic and Policy Priorities in the New Admin** *With Erica Borghard and Christopher Painter* *Moderated by Camino Kavanagh* *March 22, 2021* The first weeks of the Biden-Harris Administration have marked a turning point in many areas of U.S. foreign policy. One area that has received significant attention, in part due to the recent SolarWinds hack, is cyber security, for which the new Administration has announced an urgent initiative to improve the nation’s capability, readiness and resilience, as well as its commitment to defending the nation against cyberattacks.  The NCAFP hosted a distinguished panel of experts that discussed the policy implications of the SolarWinds attack, and the overall direction of U.S. policy relevant to cybersecurity in the Biden Administration. ##### Featured Panelists: **Erica Borghard** Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council **Christopher Painter** President, Foundation Board, Global Forum on Cyber Expertise Former State Department Coordinator for Cyber Issues **Camino Kavanagh** Nonresident Scholar, Cyber Policy Initiative Carnegie Endowment for International Peace [Click Here to Watch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrV7KXqFHjU&t=2111s) **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2021 --- ### [LISTEN: A 'New Deal' to Securing Prosperity?](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-a-new-deal-to-securing-prosperity-with-chris-khatouki/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## A ‘New Deal’ to Securing Prosperity? Understanding Economic Policy Under President Moon Jae-in *With Chris Khatouki* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader and PhD scholar **Chris Khatouki** about his research that examines the geoeconomic angle of South Korea’s stake in the international rules-based order, undertaking an interrogation of the role that economic policy and geoeconomics statecraft have played in the ROK’s transformation of its domestic society. Chris Khatouki is a PhD Scholar in Political Economy at the University of New South Wales, Sydney, where his research focuses on the contentious dynamics of economic transformation in East Asia. He currently holds a Graduate Fellowship with the Korea Foundation. Since 2020, Chris has been an Associate at Asia Society Australia, Australia’s leading think tank on business and policy in Asia. In this role, Chris has helped with the delivery of national programmes and events across the business, policy, and diplomatic community. From 2018 to 2021, Chris also served on the Executive Council at the Australian Institute of International Affairs, NSW. Prior to this, Chris worked at the Gyeongsangnam-do Office of Education in South Korea. He holds a First-Class Honours Degree in International Relations from the University of Wollongong, where he was awarded the University Medal. His writings on international affairs regularly feature on a number of global publications including the South China Morning Post, The Diplomat, Australian Outlook, and the Asia Society Policy Institute. **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: The U.S., Iran, and Shifting Dynamics in the Gulf](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-u-s-iran-and-shifting-dynamics-in-the-gulf/) **Published:** March 6, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The U.S., Iran, and Shifting Dynamics in the Gulf** *With Barbara A. Leaf and Douglas A. Silliman* *Moderated by Warren Hoge* *March 6, 2020* On March 6, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) hosted a panel discussion on the U.S. and evolving relations with both allies and adversaries the Gulf region. The panel included **Barbara A. Leaf**, the Ruth and Sid Lapidus Fellow & Director of the Geduld Program on Arab Politics at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, as well as **Douglas A. Silliman,** President of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington and former U.S. Ambassador to Iraq and Kuwait. **Warren Hoge**, Senior Adviser for External Relations at the International Peace Institute, moderated the panel. Ambassadors Leaf and Silliman offered their thoughts on the state of relations between the U.S., Iran, and the Gulf states, in the aftermath of General Qasem Soleimani’s assassination in January of this year.  Their varied experiences, informed by time spent in many Gulf nations and at the center of American policy discussions, brought nuance and rich understanding to an often challenging set of issues. A Q&A session followed the panel discussion, in which attendees asked a series of questions related to Iran’s recent elections, its increasingly strained relations with Saudi Arabia, and the country’s handling of COVID-19. [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_0305-350x233.jpg)](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-u-s-iran-and-shifting-dynamics-in-the-gulf/img_0305/) Warren Hoge opens the discussion [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_0358-350x233.jpg)](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-u-s-iran-and-shifting-dynamics-in-the-gulf/img_0358/) Douglas Silliman answers a question from the audience [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_0381-350x233.jpg)](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-u-s-iran-and-shifting-dynamics-in-the-gulf/img_0381/) The panelists engage with audience members after the discussion **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Middle East **Year:** 2020 --- ### [LISTEN: Open Source Intelligence as a North Korean Policy Tool](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-open-source-intelligence-as-a-north-korean-policy-tool-with-jamie-withorne/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Open Source Intelligence as a North Korean Policy Tool** *With Jamie Withorne* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Jamie Withorne to discuss her research and thoughts on open source intelligence (OSINT) as a tool for addressing and examining North Korean nuclear policy. Jamie WITHORNE is a graduate affiliate and research assistant with the Oslo Nuclear Project at the University of Oslo. She is pursuing her MPhil in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Oslo. With the Oslo Nuclear Project, Jamie’s work focuses on nonproliferation, verification, and open-source analysis of North Korean nuclear issues.  In addition to her University of Oslo commitments, Jamie is an International Atomic Energy Agency Marie Sklodowska-Curie fellow. She is a Leader for Tomorrow with the Youth for Disarmament initiative hosted by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. Previously, Jamie worked as a Research Assistant at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS). At CNS, Jamie’s work predominately focused on emerging technology and North Korean nuclear issues. She regularly conducted data analysis, identifying patterns of North Korea sanctions evasion activities and behaviors, and performing satellite imagery analysis on North Korea’s nuclear fuel cycle. Jamie is from South Dakota and received her B.A. in Political Science from Columbia University. [Click to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/0jJPBlPmpthL20E6Ev300Y) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: Revisiting Seoul's Nuclear Strategy Under the Rising Regional Threats Perceptions](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-revisiting-seouls-nuclear-strategy-under-the-rising-regional-threats-perceptions-with-lokman-karadag/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Revisiting Seoul’s Nuclear Strategy Under the Rising Regional Threats Perceptions** *With Lokman Karadag* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Lokman Karadag to discuss his research and thoughts on revisiting Seoul’s nuclear strategy under the rising regional threat perceptions. Lokman KARADAG is a Ph.D. student in the Department of Political Science at International Islamic University Malaysia. As part of his doctoral project, Mr. Karadag is researching China’s Foreign Policy, U.S.-China competition in Asia/Indo-Pacific, Global Power Shift and Power Transition Theory, Alliances Systems in East Asia and Pacific, Regional and Sub-regional Security Architectures in East Asia, including Northeast and Southeast Asia, Defence and Security issues in East Asia, China-North Korean Relations, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan, Japan, Disputed Islands in the East and South China Seas, Security Architecture in East and South China Seas, Arms race in East Asia. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/6zoi25cez15FaHFZYdBDcl) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: Stir Up the Hornet's Nest](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-stir-up-the-hornets-nest-with-dylan-motin/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Stir Up the Hornet’s Nest: How to Exploit the Friction Between China and North Korea** *With Dylan Motin* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader and PhD candidate Dylan Motin to discuss his research and thoughts on how the United States faces a worsening Asian balance of power in China’s favor and cannot keep confronting China and North Korea simultaneously, and thus should use North Korean fears of Chinese hegemony and lingering territorial disputes to drive a wedge between Beijing and Pyongyang and thus improve its regional position. Dylan MOTIN is a PhD candidate majoring in political science at Kangwon National University and a former visiting research fellow at the Institute for Far Eastern Studies. He is currently writing his dissertation, which intends to explain why and when minor powers sometimes choose to bandwagon with threatening great powers. His research expertise revolves around international relations theory, and he is mainly interested in balance-of-power theory, great power competition, and Korean affairs. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2mgG6eRTTcxklcdi3mBk45) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: South Korea and Democracy Promotion: Present and Future](https://ncafp.org/resources/benjamin-engel/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **South Korea and Democracy Promotion: Present and Future** With Benjamin Engel Moderated by Susan Thornton December 2022 Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Dr. Benjamin Engel to discuss his research on South Korea’s process of democratization to inform an examination of South Korea’s ability to effectively promote democracy and human rights in the context of U.S.-China competition and the greater democracy versus authoritarianism paradigm taking root in the international system. Benjamin ENGEL is a Research Professor at the Institute of International Affairs, Seoul National University. He received his PhD and Master’s in International Studies from the Graduate School of International Studies, Seoul National University. His dissertation, entitled “A Search for a Tacit Agreement: U.S.-ROK Relations and Human Rights, 1972–1980,” focuses on the development of U.S. human rights diplomacy and the subsequent ROK government response during the so-called Yusin Era. His other recent publications include: “Aiding and Abetting: Role of Foreign Missionaries in the South Korean Democracy Movement”, which was published in the Korean Studies journal Korea Observer in 2020; and “How Has America Contributed to Peace in East Asia”, which is an essay written in Korean and published in 2020 in the edited volume entitled Peace and Asian Communities: Ten Points of View. In addition to these academic publications, he has also written several articles linking history to current affairs and analyses of U.S.-ROK relations in the online foreign affairs magazine The Diplomat. He also previously served as the Editorial Assistant of the Asian Journal of Peacebuilding, an academic journal published by the Institute of Peace and Unification Studies at Seoul National University, and as a Researcher for the East Asian Institute in Seoul. Originally from the United States and a graduate of the University of Missouri, he has been living and studying in South Korea since 2010. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/3SvDpN1Bk6mk0oiCH1WYbS) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: North Korea’s Peacetime Cyber Capabilities](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-north-koreas-peacetime-cyber-capabilities-with-abhishek-sharma/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **North Korea’s Peacetime Cyber Capabilities: A New Emerging Sub-strategic Threat** *With Abhishek Sharma* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Abhishek Sharma who discusses North Korea’s peacetime cyber capabilities, which have been deployed in economic warfare, intelligence collection, espionage, and data infiltration. He explains how the DPRK uses its increasingly sophisticated peacetime cyber capabilities to generate funds for its strategic programs. Abhishek SHARMA is a PhD Student in Korean Studies at the Department of East Asian Studies, University of Delhi, India, where his research focuses on the intersection between New Emerging Technologies and the Geopolitics of East Asia. He holds a First-Class Master’s degree in International Relations from the South Asian University, New Delhi. His writing has regularly featured on South Korean Foreign Policy, North Korea-China relations, Quad, Indo-Pacific, and India-South Korea Defense relations for recognized international affairs web portals including the South Korea Pro, 9Dashline, South Asian Voices, Eurasian Review, Modern Diplomacy, ORCA, and WION. Since 2020 and subsequently, Abhishek has worked with organizations such as Our Generation of Inclusive Peace (OGIP), United Network of Young Peacebuilders (UNOY), Global Peace Hub, and Indian Coalition on Youth, Peace, and Security (ICYPS) working in the field of Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda and Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) Agenda at regional and international level. Abhishek also enjoys exploring different cultures and languages. In addition to his native language Hindi, he speaks English and Korean, and is learning Mandarin. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/6hanYEIL4xGMc6n15gVbvI) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: South Korea's Strategic Calculus and National Security Strategy](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-south-koreas-strategic-calculus-and-national-security-strategy-with-jun-lee/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **South Korea’s Strategic Calculus and National Security Strategy** *With Jun Lee Moderated by Susan Thornton December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Jun Lee and discusses his research on the complex dynamics at play in South Korea’s security strategy—it is both highly dependent on its alliance with the U.S. but also seeks to assert national autonomy on security issues where it can. Jun examines the ROK National Security Strategy to analyze the historical arc of South Korea’s strategic calculus, then lays out the relevance of his findings for U.S. policymakers. Jun LEE is a current PhD Candidate and Gates Cambridge scholar at the University of Cambridge. Prior to Cambridge, he served as a U.S. intelligence officer covering Northeast Asia security & foreign policy issues. He is fluent in 5 languages, including Korean. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/6ulcLkhN8daJezuOK0LqCU) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: Exodus or Stay? Addressing South Korea and Taiwan's China Dilemma](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-exodus-or-stay-addressing-south-korea-and-taiwans-china-dilemmawith-yifei-zhu/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Exodus or Stay? Addressing South Korea and Taiwan’s China Dilemma in Semiconductors Amid Mounting Challenges** *With Yifei Zhu* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Yifei Zhu and discusses his research where he compares and contrasts South Korea and Taiwan’s semiconductor strategies as they relate to China. The ROK and Taiwan both must balance against a far more economically powerful neighbor in China, and as U.S.-China competition continues to escalate, Yifei explains the political economy of semiconductors and presents effective policies for both countries in order to remain competitive in the global supply chain. Yifei ZHU recently graduated with a PhD degree in political science and East Asia Studies from the Freie Universität Berlin, Germany. His dissertation is a historical-institutionalist explanation of Taiwan’s economic policies toward China after the Cold War, for which he spent one year in Taiwan for fieldwork. During that time he became aware of the complexity of state-society relations in political economy and the significance of industrial-technological competition in geopolitics. With a focus on East Asia under the “China Factor,” his research interest covers economic-security dynamics in international relations, state-society interactions in economic governance, industrial-technological policies, regionalism, and institutional analysis. He also obtained an MA degree in international politics and American studies from the Johns Hopkins University-Nanjing University Center for Chinese and American Studies, for which he wrote a thesis on FTA politics among China, Japan, and South Korea. In addition, he enjoys exploring different cultures and languages. Besides Chinese (Wu and Mandarin), he also speaks English, German, and Korean. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/7LjvfHP8fyEg6n5Hv6bfOr) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: A New Framework for U.S. Nuclear Negotiations with DPRK](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-a-new-framework-for-u-s-nuclear-negotiations-with-dprk-with-marialaura-de-angelis/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **A New Framework for U.S. Nuclear Negotiations with DPRK** *With Marialaura De Angelis* *Moderated by Susan Thornton* *December 2022* Susan Thornton, Director of the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security sits down with 2022 Emerging Leader Marialaura De Angelis who lays out a new roadmap for negotiations with the DPRK, noting that present circumstances are unique and should be approached differently than the various negotiation attempts that have taken place over the last four decades. Ms. De Angelis states that now that North Korea has declared itself a nuclear weapons state and enshrined the right to use preemptive nuclear strikes, the policy goal of denuclearization assumes a different meaning for the DPRK than it did in the past, and a policy approach to negotiations should reflect that fact. Marialaura DE ANGELIS is a Northeast Asia analyst with extensive experience in EU external affairs, mediation support, and dialogue facilitation. A passionate advocate for peaceful conflict resolution, she has been involved in peacebuilding efforts on the Korean peninsula since 2008. In 2014, she created Track2Asia, an NGO focused on Track 2 and Track 1.5 diplomacy between Europe and East Asia. In 2022, she co-founded Asia Guild, an organization dedicated to interdisciplinary and multilevel cooperation among professionals working on East Asian issues. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2vkdULLiPkO15kxajWQGZc) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [LISTEN: Book Talk: "Paper Soldiers" by Saleha Mohsin](https://ncafp.org/resources/listen-book-talk-paper-soldiers-by-saleha-mohsin/) **Published:** June 18, 2024 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ## **Book Talk: “Paper Soldiers: How the Weaponization of the Dollar Changed the World Order” by Saleha Mohsin** *With Saleha Mohsin, Moderated by Jacqueline Adams April 2024* On April 2, 2024, Senior Washington Correspondent for Bloomberg News, Saleha Mohsin, spoke on her newly released book “Paper Soldiers: How the Weaponization of the Dollar Changed the World Order,” in cooperation with The Korea Society. As the global order continues to evolve, it seems that the dollar’s dominance may find itself waning for the first time in 70 years. In a world dividing into two camps, one led by China and the other by the U.S, Mohsin investigates America’s strong dollar policy and how it has shaped the world order, the effects of America’s heavy-handed sanctions on its adversaries, and how American allies like South Korea view the dollar in today’s global financial system. The conversation was moderated by former CBS White House Correspondent and NCAFP Board Member, Jacqueline Adams. This program was hybrid. To purchase “Paper Soldiers,” visit the [author’s website here](https://salehamohsin.com/). Signed nameplates were available at the end of the program. [Click Here to Listen](https://open.spotify.com/episode/0O4r8PrSu6v7lo9VURT7Vx) **Content Type:** Podcasts **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Year:** 2024 --- ### [REPORT: The Korean Peninsula in Bilateral and Trilateral Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/draft-report-the-korean-peninsula-in-bilateral-trilateral-relations/) **Published:** July 14, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The Korean Peninsula in Bilateral and Trilateral Relations: How Can the U.S., the ROK and China Foster Peace and Stability?** By Rorry Daniels July 14, 2021. In June 2021, the NCAFP organized a bilateral U.S.-ROK and trilateral U.S.-China-ROK virtual Track II meetings featuring high-level scholars and former officials from all sides. Topics for discussion included: - What are the next steps on North Korea policy? - What are the top policy priorities for each side, and how is the other side responding to those priorities? - What are barriers to coordination on common interests? These Track II meetings took place shortly after the Biden-Moon summit, which was praised as highly successful by Korean and American participants. However, despite the mutual interest in peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and denuclearization, the U.S., ROK, and China each have their own prioritization for how to achieve these interests. It is also not clear what kind of progress can be made if the DPRK is unwilling or unable to return to the negotiating table. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/NCAFP_BilatTrilat-Report_2021.pdf) . **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [Strategic & Economic Dialogue Databases](https://ncafp.org/resources/strategic-economic-dialogue-databases/) **Published:** August 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** The data set is organized in two spreadsheets: Outcomes from the State Department and Outcomes from the Treasury Department. Each is separated by year, and lists: - The outcome number and category assigned by the US government in S&ED fact sheets - The outcome text - Specific commitments contained within the outcome text - An assessment of whether the commitment was measurable or subjectively measurable - A conclusion of whether the commitment was verifiable through open source research and project interviews - An assessment of the progress toward achieving the commitment with applicable sources - Other notes that are useful to contextualizing the outcome’s progress To contribute to the data set, please write to [**s-and-e-d@ncafp.org**](mailto:s-and-e-d@ncafp.org) with the specific edit, using subject line “S&ED Data Set Edits.” **No edits will be accepted without credible, verifiable sources.** [Click Here to View the Strategic Track Database](https://ncafp.org/resources/state-track-database/) [Click Here to View the Economic Track Database](https://ncafp.org/resources/economic-track-database/) **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Reimagining Multilateralism in the Asia Pacific](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-reimagining-multilateralism-in-the-asia-pacific/) **Published:** February 8, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Reimagining Multilateralism in the Asia Pacific: Next-Generation Perspectives** By Juliet Lee and Stephen Whittaker February 8, 2022 The National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) recently organized a series of virtual Track II discussions with a group of rising scholars with perspectives from the United States, Republic of Korea (ROK), Japan, China, Australia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the European Union to assess the current state of multilateralism and regional cooperation in the Asia Pacific. The emerging leaders shared their analysis and policy recommendations on a variety of topics regarding reimagined multilateralism, including: - How has major power competition affected both multilateral and regional institutions? - What is lacking in terms of a regional architecture for the Asia Pacific? - Are there any existing institutions or arrangements that can be considered models for expanded cooperation in the Asia Pacific? - What role can middle powers play in shaping a more conducive environment for multilateral cooperation? For major takeaways and recommendations from this Track II series, please [click here to read *Reimagining Multilateralism in the Asia Pacific*.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/NCAFP_Multilateralism-in-Asia-Pacific-Report_Summary-Report-1-1.pdf) [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/NCAFP_Multilateralism-in-Asia-Pacific-Report_Summary-Report-1-1.pdf) ### ***Be sure to check out recent publications from our participants below:*** ## [The U.S.-China Tech Rivalry: Don’t Decouple – Diversify](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/US_China-Tech.pdf) ### [By: Alexa Lee](https://www.belfercenter.org/person/alexa-lee) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: Cross-Strait Relations in 2020](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-avoiding-a-taiwan-crisis/) **Published:** December 22, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Avoiding a Taiwan Crisis: Improving Signals and Reducing Mistrust** By Rorry Daniels December 22, 2020 Cross-Taiwan Strait relations have been locked in a downward spiral, and the absence of dialogue between Beijing-Taipei and Beijing-Washington has led to substantial mistrust and miscommunication. As a result, neither side of the Strait is willing to making the first move in overcoming the political deadlock, and there is an urgent need for confidence-building measures to stabilize cross-Strait relations. In the final months of 2020, the NCAFP assembled a group of prominent scholars and former officials from Taiwan, Mainland China and the US in another series of Track II video teleconferences. The same group met just before and after the US presidential election to assess the opportunities and challenges for cross-Strait dialogue amid COVID-19 recovery, economic issues, and political transitions. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/NCAFP-Cross-Strait-Report_December-2020.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: East Asia at an Inflection Point](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-east-asia-at-an-inflection-point-views-from-the-us-japan-and-the-rok/) **Published:** June 10, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **East Asia at an Inflection Point: Views from the U.S., Japan, and the ROK** By Rorry Daniels June 10, 2020 The NCAFP recently gathered former high-level officials, experts and scholars from the U.S., Japan and the Republic of Korea to discuss and provide policy recommendations on: - Potential flashpoints and opportunities in Japan-Korea relations - The direction of U.S. policy and engagement in the region Overshadowing this conference was the urgent challenge to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crises, as well as concerns about worsening U.S.-China relations. [East Asia is at an inflection point](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/NCAFP-Report_US-Japan-ROK_June-2020.pdf) as countries attempt to adjust to new realities and the changing geopolitical landscape. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/NCAFP-Report_US-Japan-ROK_June-2020.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: How to Deal with North Korea](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-how-to-deal-with-north-korea-reviving-multilateralism-in-the-covid-19-era/) **Published:** June 19, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **How to Deal with North Korea: Reviving Multilateralism in the COVID-19 Era** By Rorry Daniels June 19, 2020 On May 26th, the NCAFP hosted a United States-China-Russia-Japan-Republic of Korea Track II Quintilateral video teleconference. Participants explored recommendations for multilateral cooperation on how to deal with North Korea and other non-traditional security issues that affect the five countries. What are the major opportunities and challenges in addressing the North Korean nuclear program during the COVID-19 pandemic? And how can the five countries prioritize communication and minimize risks on non-traditional security issues? To learn more about how participants addressed these questions, click here to read **[“How to Deal with North Korea: Reviving Multilateral Cooperation in the COVID-19 Era.”](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/NCAFP-Quint-Report_June-2020_Final.pdf)** [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/NCAFP-Quint-Report_June-2020_Final.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: Crisis Management in East Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-crisis-management-in-east-asia/) **Published:** July 1, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Crisis Management in East Asia: Is Prosperity Without Stability Possible?** By Rorry Daniels July 1, 2020 In early June, the NCAFP hosted a Track II Quadrilateral video teleconference with participants from China, Japan, the ROK and the US to explore the space for multilateral cooperation on common interests, within the framework of major power competition. How will regional stability be maintained in the era of major power competition? And how can each side address the risks of conflict escalation in this period? For a summary of the discussion’s main points and policy recommendations, along with short papers from the participants, click here to read **[“Crisis Management in East Asia: Is Prosperity Without Stability Possible?”](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/NCAFP-Quadrilateral-VTC-Report_June-2020-1-3.pdf)** [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/NCAFP-Quadrilateral-VTC-Report_June-2020-1-3.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: The U.S.-ROK Alliance](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-the-us-rok-alliance-transactional-or-transformational/) **Published:** July 24, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The U.S.-ROK Alliance: Transactional or Transformational?** By Rorry Daniels July 24, 2020 The United States-Republic of Korea alliance is important for peace and stability in the region, but the relationship is plagued by deteriorating trust over various security issues. On July 21, 2020 the NCAFP held its first U.S.-ROK Strategic Dialogue via video teleconference to explore the opportunities and challenges for the alliance in the short to medium term, with former officials and prominent experts participating from both sides. Participants provided their assessments and policy recommendations for a joint vision for the alliance based on two central questions: - What are the top priorities for communication and resolution within the U.S.-ROK alliance? - What are the top priorities for the U.S.-ROK alliance in maintaining regional peace and stability? [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/US-ROK-Strategic-Dialogue-report_Final.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: Goldilocks and the Rules-Based Order](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-goldilocks-and-the-rules-based-order/) **Published:** October 5, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Goldilocks and the Rules-Based Order: Major Power Diplomacy in Southeast Asia** By Rorry Daniels October 5, 2020 Southeast Asia has emerged as an important region for strategic and economic competition, as major powers seek to deepen regional integration and connectivity while also protecting their own security interests. Last month, the NCAFP held its first US-Japan-ASEAN Track II Dialogue over a series of video teleconferences to explore opportunities and challenges for engagement in the region and the role of ASEAN in the current international environment. Participants from the US, Japan and ASEAN countries discussed how they envision the future of the rules-based order against the backdrop of deteriorating US-China relations and provided policy recommendations for how to strengthen existing regional security architecture amid increasing major power rivalry. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/NCAFP_US-Japan-ASEAN-Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: America in the World](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-america-in-the-world/) **Published:** December 15, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **America in the World: Making Global Engagement Work for the United States** By Juliet Lee and Stephen Whittaker December 15, 2020 At its peak in the 1990s, “win-win” globalization assumed that the geostrategic world was flat, and an economically liberal world order would promote the spread of democratic values. Instead, greater economic interdependence has resulted in democratic and non-democratic states alike taking advantage of power asymmetries and vulnerabilities, resulting in international cooperation that has not guaranteed equitable physical, economic or health security for people around the world. In October, the NCAFP convened eminent scholars and experts on global order and interdependence to discuss the future of globalization in a series of video teleconferences (VTCs). With an eye towards the next four years of U.S. policy, participants were asked to address the central question of what role the United States should play in an increasingly interdependent international system. The report below summarizes the major points of discussion, and outlines specific policy recommendations to address the challenges of global interdependence through domestic revitalization, navigating a shifting international order, and rethinking national security priorities. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/America-in-the-World-NCAFP-Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Regional Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2020 --- ### [REPORT: Reinvesting in U.S.-Japan-ROK Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-reinvesting-in-u-s-japan-rok-strategic-relations/) **Published:** February 1, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Reinvesting in U.S.-Japan-ROK Strategic Relations** An NCAFP Emerging Leaders Report February 1, 2021 In November 2020, the NCAFP assembled an Emerging Leaders Working Group of ten next-generation scholars and experts from the U.S., ROK and Japan to consider opportunities for and challenges to trilateral relations. Despite a shared desire to maintain peace and stability in Northeast Asia, trilateral cooperation is at a historic low point resulting from differing threat perceptions and policy approaches toward China and North Korea, lingering anxieties over a U.S. bottom-line approach to alliances, and the reemergence of history issues and strategic mistrust in bilateral ROK-Japan relations. Members of the Working Group shared a variety of opinions on the way forward for trilateral cooperation and co-authored this NCAFP report on “[Reinvesting in U.S.-Japan-Republic of  Korea Strategic Relations: A Practical Trilateral Agenda](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/NCAFP_Trilateral_Final-Draft_2021.pdf).” The report focuses on policy recommendations for how to manage mistrust and advance common goals, and also addresses key features of the current domestic, regional and bilateral political and security environment. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/NCAFP_Trilateral_Final-Draft_2021.pdf) The NCAFP is grateful to the following organizations for their support of this project: Carnegie Corporation of New York Henry Luce Foundation Korea Foundation John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Creating a Favorable Balance of Power](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-creating-a-favorable-balance-of-power-in-the-indo-pacific/) **Published:** April 22, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Creating a Favorable Balance of Power in the Indo-Pacific** By Rorry Daniels April 22, 2021 What is the future of the global system? Is it a multipolar order, or is it a world of zero-sum choices dominated by the United States and China? As the US reengages with the world and returns to multilateral fora, its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region are navigating a changing balance of power and the rise of great power competition. Non-Pacific powers are realizing the need for a comprehensive Asia policy, as evidenced by the recent release of the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The NCAFP organized a series of videoconferences in March 2021 with a group of prominent scholars and former officials from the US, Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Australia, India, Canada, the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK). Participants discussed: - US reengagement in Asia under the Biden administration - Defending the rules-based international order and updating international institutions - Dealing with regional security hotspots, such as North Korea, the Taiwan Strait, and the East and South China Seas - The role of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), especially in light of the Quad leaders’ summit that took place during the course of these dialogues - The role of non-Pacific powers in the region Click here to read [**“Creating a Favorable Balance of Power in the Indo-Pacific: Views from the US and its Allies and Partners”**](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/NCAFP-Report_Indo-Pacific-Allies-and-Partners-2021_Final.pdf) for key takeaways and policy recommendations from this series of virtual dialogues. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/NCAFP-Report_Indo-Pacific-Allies-and-Partners-2021_Final.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2021 --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: New Thinking on Persistent Security Challenges](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-edited-volume-2021/) **Published:** May 3, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** May 3, 2021 While the Trump administration pursued “America First” policies, the rest of the world continued to deepen economic integration and people-to-people communications. However, the process of globalization also gave rise to “weaponized interdependence”, a phenomenon where states use economic leverage to achieve political and security objectives. On top of that, a confrontational US approach to China has not resulted in strategic gains for the US or its partners and allies. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the costs of non-traditional security shocks, particularly in the breakdown of global cooperation. International institutions have failed to lead the way out of the pandemic, eroding public trust in their ability to address other long-term transnational challenges. *[**New Thinking on Persistent Security Challenges in the Asia Pacific**](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/NCAFP-2021-Edited-Volume_FINAL.pdf)* is the latest NCAFP Edited Volume of essays featuring nine prominent security scholars and former officials writing on a variety of topics that deserve reexamination at this critical juncture: - The future of the Korean Peninsula - Regional arms control - US alliance policy - International institutional reform - Cross-Taiwan Strait relations - The role of regional institutions like APEC and ASEAN in the era of great power competition [**Click here**](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/NCAFP-2021-Edited-Volume_FINAL.pdf) to read these future-oriented visions for managing the most complex, long-term challenges to regional peace and prosperity in the Asia Pacific. [Click Here to Read the Edited Volume](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/NCAFP-2021-Edited-Volume_FINAL.pdf) **Content Type:** Edited Volumes **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: U.S.-China Relations in the Post-Trump Era](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-us-china-relations-in-the-post-trump-era/) **Published:** May 20, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Reassessment Not Realignment: U.S.-China Relations in the Post-Trump Era** *By Rorry Daniels* *May 20, 2021* Following the first official meeting between U.S. and Chinese officials in the Biden administration, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy convened a group of high-level experts on US-China relations to discuss the following questions in a series of Track II VTCs: - What are the opportunities and challenges in restoring diplomacy and communications in the coming year? - How should the United States and China manage potential regional flashpoints? - How can the United States and China cooperate on areas of overlapping interest and manage competition? Participants debated the path forward on U.S.-China relations given the previous four years of poor communication during the Trump administration. Would the two countries find a new modus vivendi or will great power competition dominate bilateral narratives? While the conversation ultimately concluded that the two sides are more likely to adjust existing policy than pursue a major realignment, there is still an urgent need and significant support for restoring basic and regular communication, reaffirming prior commitments, and repairing damage to people-to-people ties. For a full record of the discussions, including key takeaways and policy recommendations, please [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/NCAFP_US-China-Strategic-Dialogue-Report_May-2021.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Five-Party Talks on North Korea & the International System](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-five-party-talks-on-north-korea-and-the-international-system/) **Published:** July 8, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Five-Party Talks on North Korea and the International System** *By Rorry Daniels* *July 8, 2021* Managing the North Korean nuclear issue and ensuring peace and stability in the Asia Pacific are major areas of common interest for multilateral cooperation. However, despite the mutual preference for a non-nuclear DPRK, strategic mistrust among regional stakeholders has undermined pragmatic cooperation. How can countries effectively coordinate with each other if each side sees the other side as purposefully undermining regional and global stability? To address these topics, the NCAFP organized a series of five-party Track II video teleconferences in June 2021 with a group of distinguished experts from the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, and Russia. The discussions focused on the importance of dialogue and multilateral cooperation on North Korea, as well as how each of the five countries see major power relations in the Asia Pacific and the future of the international system. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/NCAFP-Quint-Report_July-2021.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [U.S.-China S&ED: Strategic Track Database](https://ncafp.org/resources/state-track-database/) **Published:** September 9, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2021 --- ### [U.S.-China S&ED: Economic Track Database](https://ncafp.org/resources/economic-track-database/) **Published:** September 9, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-report-building-resilience-in-the-age-of-disinformation/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Fortifying the Future: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation** *December 20, 2021* On [November 29](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDkN-ATihVM) and [December 6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BMCYpNSH1o), the National Committee on American Foreign Policy hosted a two-part, public discussion series **Fortifying the Future: Building Resilience in the Age of Disinformation**. The series, which brought together experts with diverse public sector, business, media, military, and academic backgrounds, sought to bring greater awareness to, and lay out potential policy solutions for, the rampant problem of disinformation. While social media channels and new technologies have rightly been lauded for their ability to foster community and bridge global divides, they can also create challenges when weap­onized by nefarious actors. Disinformation campaigns are underway and routinely spread skepticism and animosity within civil society, the press, and, critically, between the public and their elected officials. Disinformation can easily and cheaply be used to persuade the public at an accelerated and dangerous rate, just as the very algorithms utilized by digital platforms inadvertently encourage the sharing of false information. [The report linked above](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Fortifying-the-Future_Report.pdf) is a summation of the discussions held over the two public sessions. It outlines the key issues at hand and navigates the potential means to build resilience against an amorphous threat. Key policy recommendations drawn from the discussions are noted at the conclusion. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Fortifying-the-Future_Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Global Governance, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: A Cross-Taiwan Strait Dialogue](https://ncafp.org/resources/read-new-cross-strait-trilateral-report/) **Published:** December 17, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Whither Status Quo? A Cross-Taiwan Strait Dialogue** *By Susan A. Thornton* *December 17, 2021* Cross-Taiwan Strait relations have continued to deteriorate throughout the year, including the sharp increase in militarization of the cross-Strait issue and the media narrative discussing prospects for imminent conflict over Taiwan. In particular, the continued absence of dialogue between Beijing and Taipei have contributed to statements and signals being misinterpreted, and there are differing views on whether and how the other side is changing the status quo. Throughout 2021, the NCAFP continued to host regular Track II video teleconferences with prominent scholars and former officials from the U.S., Mainland China, and Taiwan. The most recent rounds held in November examined questions related to the cross-Strait status quo and how participants see the militarization of the situation in the Taiwan Strait. In the absence of official dialogue, there is an urgent need to find more venues for unofficial communication and people-to-people exchange between the two sides of the Strait. For a summary of the key takeaways and recommendations, click here to read “**[Whither Status Quo? A Cross-Taiwan Strait Dialogue](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/NCAFP-Cross-Strait-Trilat-Report_2021_Final.pdf)**.” [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/NCAFP-Cross-Strait-Trilat-Report_2021_Final.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Fit for Purpose: Assessing the Quad](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-fit-for-purpose-assessing-the-quad-security-dialogue/) **Published:** April 28, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Fit for Purpose: Assessing the Quad** *By Rorry Daniels* *April 28, 2022* In March 2022, the NCAFP convened a series of Track II meetings with participants from India, Australia, Japan and the U.S. to discuss the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, resulting in these key takeaways and policy recommendations: - The Quad is tentatively finding its optimal role, purpose and ambition. It has successfully outlined an affirmative agenda that is more attractive to the region than one emphasizing its members’ opposition to China. The emergence of other minilateral groupings specific to counterbalancing China’s growing military power takes pressure off the Quad to be everything for everyone. - The Quad mostly exists to shape the peacetime environment in the Indo-Pacific, and is not yet ready to tackle contingencies. Responses to the Russian invasion of Ukraine shows gaps in alignment among the Quad members, and it remains too early to know if the crisis in Europe will accelerate alignment before a regional stress test occurs. - Flexibility is a strength of the Quad, but deliverables are its yardstick. The first cannot come at the expense of the second, leaving open questions about how and when to institutionalize the mechanism. - The Quad should “consolidate its reasonableness” or cement its affirmative and constructive purpose if it wants to have a measurable impact in the region’s trajectory. This includes refining its branding, keeping a tight scope on its agenda, improving its process to deliver public goods, and finding anchoring principles for its members’ trade policies. For more detail on the conversations that produced these conclusions, please click here to read the conference report, [**“Fit for Purpose: Assessing the Quad”**](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/NCAFP-Report_2022-Quad-VTCs.pdf) [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/NCAFP-Report_2022-Quad-VTCs.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Global Governance **Region:** Asia-Pacific **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: Missed and Mixed Messages in U.S.-China Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-report-missed-and-mixed-messages-in-us-china-relations/) **Published:** June 30, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** *By Rorry Daniels* *June 30, 2022* In May of 2022, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy convened a series of Track II strategic dialogues among academics and policy professionals from the U.S. and China, with the aim of identifying ways to responsibly manage the critically important bilateral relationship. The Track II format fostered an environment of honesty and candor, facilitating debate on pressing issues that included: - Areas of misperception between the U.S. and China and points of clarification each side seeks from the other, including on Taiwan - The role of economics in resolving political and security issues between the two countries While both countries harbor pessimism about various aspects of the relationship, each side remains committed to avoiding a U.S.-China military conflict. The strategic dialogues served as a forum to identify aspects of the multifaceted and interdependent bilateral relationship that both sides can work to improve to mutual benefit. The need for frequent communication and engagement to minimize the risk of miscalculation on sensitive security issues, like Taiwan, was universally recognized. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/NCAFP-US-China-Strategic-Dialogue-Report-2022-1.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: Emerging Leaders Agenda for U.S.-Japan-ROK Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-emerging-leaders-agenda-for-us-japan-rok-relations/) **Published:** July 13, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea Relations: A Practical Trilateral Agenda for Northeast Asia and Beyond** *By Rorry Daniels and Neal Caldwell* *July 2022* In May of 2022, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy convened an in-person trilateral Track II conference of emerging leaders from the U.S., Japan, and the Republic of Korea to discuss policy issues and relations among the three countries. Key points of discussion included: - The transitions of power in all three countries and the subsequent opportunity to reorient and refocus policy objectives - Enhancing alliances and relationships while managing strong domestic political opposition - The Russian invasion of Ukraine and its implications for relations among the three countries, as well as respective bilateral relations with China - Policy orientation toward the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, and the conditions under which the three sides are open to dialogue and diplomacy with the DPRK - The intersection of security and economics and how that impacts trilateral and broader multilateral cooperation Participants agreed that all three countries should lay out a clearly defined framework for trilateral cooperation, capitalizing on shared national interests. Also prominently discussed were the opportunities and challenges for Japan and the ROK to mend their bilateral relationship and enhance cooperation. Additionally, the regional need for firm and clear U.S. extended deterrence assurances was underscored. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/NCAFP-Trilat-Emerging-Leaders-Report_2022-1.pdf) ## **Be sure to also check out our 2020 Next-Gen Report,** **“Reinvesting In U.S.-Japan-ROK Strategic Relations”** [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-28-at-3.31.54-PM-412x453.png)](https://ncafp.org/report-reinvesting-in-u-s-japan-rok-strategic-relations/) [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/report-reinvesting-in-u-s-japan-rok-strategic-relations/) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: Resurgent Bilateralism and Trilateralism](https://ncafp.org/resources/new-report-resurgent-bilateralism-and-trilateralism/) **Published:** August 16, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Resurgent Bilateralism and Trilateralism: Prospects for Enhanced Cooperation among the US, Japan, and Republic of Korea** *By Juliet Lee* *August 16, 2022* In July of 2022, the NCAFP organized a bilateral US-ROK and trilateral US-Japan-ROK virtual Track II meetings featuring high-level scholars and former officials from all sides. The participants discussed: - The outcomes of the Biden-Yoon summit and the ROK’s initiative for a “global pivotal state” - Potential policy gaps among the three countries resulting from different threat perceptions and foreign policy priorities, especially on the North Korean nuclear issue - The impact of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and deepening US-China rivalry on prospects for trilateral cooperation in the region and beyond - The growing challenge of polarized domestic politics and its influence on expanding bilateral and trilateral relations To read the policy recommendations and the summary of these Track II discussions, [click here](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/NCAFP-Bilat-Trilat-Report_August-2022.pdf). [Click here to read the report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/NCAFP-Bilat-Trilat-Report_August-2022.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: Five-Party Perspectives on DPRK Denuclearization Efforts](https://ncafp.org/resources/report-five-party-perspectives-on-dprk-denuclearization-efforts/) **Published:** October 14, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Creative Diplomacy and Political Will:** **Five-Party Perspectives on DPRK Denuclearization Efforts** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *October 14, 2022* Over the last three decades, North Korea has been in the driver’s seat of negotiation efforts–Pyongyang often sets the timeline and decides when or when not to engage. What additional efforts can be made to avoid repeating past cycles of failed negotiations amid divergent threat perceptions? In July 2022, the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security organized a virtual Track II conference with former negotiators and scholars from five of the six parties formerly engaged in North Korea nuclear negotiations–the US, China, ROK, Japan, and Russia. Participants discussed developments in North Korea, including prospects for a seventh nuclear test; as well as prospects for negotiations in light of diminished leverage over the DPRK and worsening relations among the five parties. For key takeaways and policy recommendations, [click here to read the report.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/NCAFP-Quint-Report-2022.pdf) [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/NCAFP-Quint-Report-2022.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [EDITED VOLUME: Next-Gen Policy Perspectives: The Korean Peninsula and Beyond](https://ncafp.org/resources/next-gen-policy-perspectives-the-future-of-the-korean-peninsula-and-beyond/) **Published:** December 19, 2022 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** *December 19, 2022* Throughout the year, the NCAFP held an Emerging Leaders Workshop of 11 next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to discuss issues related to Korean Peninsula security. The Emerging Leaders shared their research and analysis on a variety of topics that deserve reexamination at this critical juncture. These include: - Understanding the Republic of Korea’s (ROK) policies and priorities–past, present, and future - Reengaging the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), from nuclear negotiations to humanitarian assistance - Analyzing the ROK’s broader role in the Indo-Pacific region and the world To conclude the workshop, the NCAFP is pleased to share this edited volume of the Emerging Leaders’ policy papers on the Korean Peninsula and beyond. [Click Here to Read the Edited Volume](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/The-Future-of-the-Korean-Peninsula-and-Beyond.pdf) ## **Emerging Leaders’ Webinar & Podcast Series** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/NCAFP-Youtube-intro-2-750x422.png) Be sure to check out the [NCAFP’s Spotify page](https://open.spotify.com/show/4nk4aJqHqKZZd2IFbEdvJG), where you’ll find season 2 of our next-gen podcast series featuring each of our 2022 Emerging Leaders discussing their policy paper with NCAFP’s Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security, Susan Thornton. [Click Here to Listen to the Podcast](https://open.spotify.com/show/4nk4aJqHqKZZd2IFbEdvJG) In case you missed it be sure to watch our panel discussion featuring some of our 2022 Emerging Leaders, where they discuss a diverse variety of topics relating to their research and more! [Click Here to Watch the Full Program](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cHT3EHObyE) *This report was made possible through the generous support of: Carnegie Corporation of New York Henry Luce Foundation Korea Foundation John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation* **Content Type:** Edited Volumes, Podcasts **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2022 --- ### [REPORT: The NCAFP's Annual Northeast Asia Trip Report](https://ncafp.org/resources/read-the-ncafps-annual-northeast-asia-trip-report/) **Published:** February 14, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Northeast Asia at a Crossroads: Insights from Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *February 14, 2023* In December 2022, the NCAFP sent a high-level delegation of former U.S. officials to Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo for meetings with officials and other counterparts. This was the NCAFP’s first trip to Northeast Asia since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and international travel restrictions. Some of the major takeaways and recommendations from the trip include: - Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has had a profound impact on security perspectives in Northeast Asia; and the growing alignment among Moscow, Beijing, and Pyongyang has become a major cause of concern for leaders in Northeast Asia. - With the reopening of travel and flights across the Taiwan Strait, the NCAFP urges increased direct people-to-people exchanges across the Strait. The Chinese Mainland should also find a way to open communication channels with Taiwan before Tsai Ing-wen leaves office. - To address concerns that the focus on denuclearization with respect to the DPRK is shifting, the U.S., Japan, and the ROK should work together to better explain why denuclearization must remain the ultimate goal of any negotiation. - There is lingering concern in the region about the reliability of continued U.S. engagement, forward defense, extended deterrence, and international economic leadership, mostly due to high uncertainty surrounding the U.S. domestic political situation and perceived lack of national consensus. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/NCAFP-Asia-Trip-Report_Final-1.pdf) ###### This work is licensed under [CC BY 4.0 ![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-logo.f0ab4ebe.svg)![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-by.21b728bb.svg)](http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/?ref=chooser-v1) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: A Forward-Looking Agenda for the U.S.-Japan Alliance](https://ncafp.org/resources/a-forward-looking-agenda-for-the-u-s-japan-alliance/) **Published:** April 10, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **What’s After “Japanuary”? A Forward-Looking Agenda for the U.S.-Japan Alliance** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *April 10, 2023* During a March 2023 conference hosted by the NCAFP, experts from the U.S. and Japan addressed the new dynamics in the U.S.-Japan alliance following Japan’s new National Security Strategy and defense documents. The participants discussed how the U.S. and Japan can cooperate in tackling global and regional challenges as well as how to promote economic prosperity. Some of the main topics of discussion included: - Expanding security cooperation: how Japan is strengthening its defense capability and bolstering deterrence, and how the two allies can best manage and address regional contingencies, including in the Taiwan Strait. - Promoting economic prosperity and security: the need to resist and insulate other countries from economic coercion, as well as to integrate assistance and development programs overseas. - Promoting middle power diplomacy: how to promote Asian multilateralism and inclusive cooperation, while working to prevent regional institutions from becoming a stage for major power competition. To read more about the key takeaways and recommendations from this conference, click here to read, “[What’s After ‘Japanuary’? A Forward-Looking Agenda for the U.S.-Japan Alliance](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/NCAFP-U.S.-Japan-Report_2023.pdf).” [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/NCAFP-U.S.-Japan-Report_2023.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Japan **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: The Changing Regional Architecture of the Asia Pacific](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-changing-regional-architecture-of-the-asia-pacific-opportunities-and-challenges-for-the-u-s-china-japan-and-south-korea/) **Published:** August 8, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## The Changing Regional Architecture of the Asia Pacific: Opportunities and Challenges for the U.S., China, Japan, and South Korea *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *August 8, 2023* In June, the NCAFP convened two days of in-person Track II dialogues with high-level scholars and former officials from the U.S., People’s Republic of China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. During the U.S.-China-Japan-ROK conference, participants discussed the current state of security cooperation in the Asia Pacific and the future of regional security architecture. Some of the major takeaways from the dialogue include: - Minilateralism has become a defining feature of the regional security architecture, serving as an extension to existing multilateral institutions. - The U.S., Japan, and ROK should seek to establish a constructive and stable relationship with China. - The relevant parties should explore the possibility of resurrecting the Six-Party Talks and establish denuclearization of the DPRK as an end goal. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NCAFP-2023-Four-Party-Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: Maintaining Momentum and Managing Expectations](https://ncafp.org/resources/maintaining-momentum-and-managing-expectations/) **Published:** December 12, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Maintaining Momentum and Managing Expectations in an Age of Uncertainty** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee December 12, 2023* In October 2023, the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) organized a high-level delegation of former U.S. officials to visit Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo, and Seoul for in-depth meetings with officials and other counterparts. The following are some of the NCAFP’s policy recommendations and conclusions for maintaining momentum and managing expectations in an age of uncertainty: - Following the Biden-Xi summit, the U.S. and China must continue to maintain and expand various channels of communication at all levels, including at the leader level. - Washington should reiterate its policy that the U.S. would welcome any resolution in the Taiwan Strait that is peaceful and accepted by the people of Taiwan, and that the U.S. continues to oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side. - The prevalent challenge to U.S.-Japan-ROK trilateral relations lies in the allies’ respective domestic politics. The allies should promote the trilateral as a society-wide mechanism that goes beyond a military and security relationship in order to maintain momentum and insulate from domestic politics. - Next year, 2024, is a pivotal year for elections around the world, including in the U.S., Taiwan, and South Korea. Keeping as many channels of communication open as possible is necessary to avoid miscommunication and misunderstandings caused by a mismatch in expectations. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Final-Asia-Trip-Report-2023.pdf) ###### This work is licensed under [CC BY 4.0 ![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-logo.f0ab4ebe.svg)![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-by.21b728bb.svg)](http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/?ref=chooser-v1) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: De-Escalating Tension and Restoring Reassurances](https://ncafp.org/resources/de-escalating-tension-and-restoring-reassurances-across-the-taiwan-strait/) **Published:** June 14, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **De-Escalating Tension and Restoring Reassurances across the Taiwan Strait** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *June 14, 2023* The NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) held a Track II discussion on cross-Taiwan Strait security in New York City, the first in-person iteration of the dialogue since 2019. Scholars and experts from the U.S., Mainland China, and Taiwan assessed the next eighteen months to be a particularly sensitive period for cross-Strait relations, and how it is essential to prevent the already tense relationship across the Strait from getting worse. It was clear from the discussions that all sides believe tensions should be de-escalated, but the question is how to best do so. Participants from all three sides agreed that there is too much focus on military actions and responses to perceived efforts to deter the other side(s), and not enough attention is being paid to reassurances. To read more about other key takeaways and recommendations from this Track II discussion, click here to read, [**“De-escalating Tension and Restoring Reassurances across the Taiwan Strait.”**](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NCAFP-2023-Cross-Strait-Report.pdf) [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NCAFP-2023-Cross-Strait-Report.pdf) ###### This work is licensed under [CC BY 4.0 ![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-logo.f0ab4ebe.svg)![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-by.21b728bb.svg)](http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/?ref=chooser-v1) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: Avoiding Fatalism in U.S.-China Relations](https://ncafp.org/resources/avoiding-fatalism-in-u-s-china-relations/) **Published:** June 16, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **Avoiding Fatalism in U.S.-China Relations** *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *June 16, 2023* Following last month’s [Cross-Taiwan Strait Dialogue](https://ncafp.org/resources/de-escalating-tension-and-restoring-reassurances-across-the-taiwan-strait/), the NCAFP held a U.S.-China Track II conference in New York City with U.S. and Chinese scholars. Despite the growing sense of fatalism in both the U.S. and China that bilateral relations are doomed to get worse, participants were adamant that talking was better than not talking. After all, an important function of dialogue is exploration and learning, and not every dialogue has to generate an agreement. The NCAFP’s latest report, “[Avoiding Fatalism in U.S.-China Relations](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NCAFP-2023-US-China-Report.pdf),” makes the following recommendations for Washington and Beijing: - Normalize people-to-people exchanges. - Reestablish regular, high-level communications between the two militaries. - Tone down zero-sum rhetoric, and begin to acknowledge some of the positive things the other side has done in an attempt to improve bilateral relations and rebuild trust. - Normalize U.S.-China diplomacy at all levels on a full range of issues. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NCAFP-2023-US-China-Report.pdf) ###### This work is licensed under [CC BY 4.0 ![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-logo.f0ab4ebe.svg)![](https://chooser-beta.creativecommons.org/img/cc-by.21b728bb.svg)](http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/?ref=chooser-v1) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: Maintaining Positive Momentum in the U.S.-ROK Alliance](https://ncafp.org/resources/maintaining-positive-momentum-in-the-u-s-rok-alliance/) **Published:** August 8, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## Maintaining Positive Momentum in the U.S.-ROK Alliance *By Susan A. Thornton and Juliet Lee* *August 8, 2023* Following the U.S.-ROK Summit in May, the NCAFP hosted a U.S.-ROK conference. Experts discussed the transformation of the ROK over the past 70 years and the evolution of the U.S.-ROK alliance. The participants examined the future of alliance policy and potential areas of cooperation with other partners to manage regional hot spots and tackle global challenges. Some of the major takeaways from the dialogue include: - The U.S. and ROK should further deepen institutional cooperation to ensure the continuation of progress achieved under the Biden and Yoon administrations. - The U.S. and ROK should address policy gaps with respect to China and North Korea. [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NCAFP-2023-U.S.-ROK-Report.pdf) **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2023 --- ### [REPORT: Next-Gen Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) **Published:** December 4, 2023 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **The Evolving Security Landscape of the Asia Pacific: Modern Challenges and Opportunities for South Korea** By Emily Sparkman and Nia Williams December 4, 2023 In October 2023, the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security reconvened its 2021 and 2022 cohorts of Next-Generation Korea Peninsula Specialists in NYC for a Track II conference. The Emerging Leaders discussed the evolving role of the Republic of Korea in the Asia-Pacific region, nuclear proliferation in the Korean Peninsula, the future of regional security architecture, and the intersection of economic policy and national security. Key points of discussion included: - South Korea’s role as a middle power and how it can navigate and improve its relationships with the U.S., Japan, and China - The future of the U.S.-ROK alliance under a potential second Trump administration - The debate over the development of a South Korean indigenous nuclear program in the context of fluctuating U.S. reliability and rising tensions in the region - How the U.S. should continue to foster diplomatic engagement with North Korea [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Emerging-Leaders-Report-FINAL-.pdf) *This project was made possible through the generous support of:* *Carnegie Corporation of New York Henry Luce Foundation Korea Foundation* **Content Type:** Reports **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2023 --- ### [EVENT RECAP: NCAFP Celebrates 25 Years of the Good Friday Agreement](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-ncafp-celebrates-25-years-of-the-good-friday-agreement/) **Published:** March 28, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/1-1-770x550.jpg)![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2-1-770x550.jpg)![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3-1-770x550.jpg)![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/4-1-770x550.jpg) To view Senator Mitchell’s remarks, [please click here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bT0FDkxok9c). **Content Type:** Events, Past Webinars & Events **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [The NCAFP Launches Its Inaugural Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program!](https://ncafp.org/resources/the-ncafp-launches-its-inaugural-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-program/) **Published:** December 4, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** On Saturday, December 2nd, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) launched its inaugural Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders program, a yearlong transatlantic mentorship program for next generation community leaders and policy practitioners from across the region. [The group includes ten community leaders and young professionals](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) who will develop policy ideas on a range of themes, from education, environmental peacebuilding, structural reform, to women, peace, and security. Throughout the year, the participants will develop their policy ideas and present their final paper at a conference in New York City in October 2024. To maximize opportunities for professional development, the NCAFP has paired each participant with a mentor who will provide guidance throughout the year. The mentors include: Ambassador Paula Dobriansky, Professor Martin Flaherty, Professor Kevin Kenny, Charley Landow, Professor Linda Longmire, Alyse Nelson, Kathryn (Kitty) Pilgrim, Ambassador Nancy Soderberg, Ambassador Barbara Stephenson, and William Tranghese. [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/PXL_20231202_131858965-805x550.jpg)](https://ncafp.org/the-ncafp-launches-its-inaugural-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders-program/pxl_20231202_131858965/)*The Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders meet in Belfast* This new program adds to the NCAFP’s extensive Emerging Leaders network around the globe, including its programming with next generation scholars and policy practitioners throughout the Asia-Pacific. Ambassador (ret.) Susan M. Elliott, President & CEO of the NCAFP, notes: “The NCAFP is thrilled to expand this program and contribute to Northern Ireland’s peace, stability, and prosperity.” Emma DeSouza, Program Director of the NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program added: “The expansion of the NCAFP Emerging Leaders Network into Northen Ireland follows a series of events to mark and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. Building a sustained and prosperous peace requires work. This program, and the participants taking part, will be working to deliver ambitious, future-focused policy ideas to advance peace, reconciliation, and wellbeing, and to strengthen transatlantic relations. Having celebrated 25 years of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, it’s time to start thinking about the next 25 years.” The NCAFP has worked on peacebuilding initiatives in Northern Ireland since the early 1990s. The organization played a pivotal role in the peace process when it successfully lobbied the Clinton administration to grant Gerry Adams a 48 hour visa so that he could attend the NCAFP’s ground-breaking cross border conference with John Hume and John Alderdice. Adam’s first appearance in the United States led to a ceasefire and enabled him to develop ties with key U.S. leaders, giving him and his party the assurance necessary to enter into peace negotiations and sign the Belfast Agreement in 1998. The NCAFP thanks the Ireland Funds for funding this project. **Content Type:** Media **Topic:** Emerging Leaders **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ### [PODCAST: Discussions with Next-Gen Korean Peninsula Specialists](https://ncafp.org/resources/next-gen-korean-peninsula-specialists-podcast-series/) **Published:** November 30, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** The NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security (FAPS) hosted a workshop to highlight the policy analysis and recommendations of next-generation Korean Peninsula security specialists. Over the last six months, the ten emerging leaders from all over the world met virtually for professional skills workshops, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and peer review sessions, covering topics from the North Korean nuclear challenge, US alliance management, broader regional cooperation, and major power competition. To conclude the workshop, each emerging leader met with FAPS Project Director, Susan A. Thornton, to discuss their research topic and policy recommendations in a new podcast series. The NCAFP is pleased to share with you at least 9 podcast episodes in this series (available below), and hope you find them of great interest. Finally, on December 15, the NCAFP will publish an edited volume, “Next Generation Korean Peninsula Specialists,” compiled of the emerging leaders’ policy papers on the same topics. ## [Click Here to Listen on Spotify!](https://open.spotify.com/show/4nk4aJqHqKZZd2IFbEdvJG) [Episode 1 Matt Abbott](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcase-series-episode-1/) [Episode 2 Sarah Kim](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-pocast-series-episode-2/) [Episode 3 Jonathan Corrado](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-3/) [Episode 4 Shuqi Wang](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-4/) [Episode 5 Maximilian Ernst](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-5/) [Episode 6 Kyungwon Suh](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-6/) [Episode 7 Alexander Hynd](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-7/) [Episode 8 Jarret Fisher](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-8/) [Episode 9 Darcie Draudt](https://ncafp.org/emerging-leaders-podcast-series-episode-9/) *\*\*\* This emerging leaders workshop was made possible by the generous support of:*  *Carnegie Corporation of New York* *Henry Luce Foundation* *Korea Foundation*  *John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation* **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security, Emerging Leaders **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [NCAFP 2021 Virtual Gala Honorees](https://ncafp.org/resources/draft-ncafp-2021-virtual-gala-honorees-shaun-kelly/) **Published:** August 24, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## The William J. Flynn Initiative for Peace Award ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk-headshot-2021-sk-scaled-e1629823836685-482x453.jpg) ## Mr. Shaun Kelly *Former Global COO of KPMG* Shaun recently retired as Global Chief Operating Officer for KPMG International. In this position, he managed the day to day operational aspects of the firm’s Global Strategy and oversaw the delivery of global initiatives. Working with the Global leadership team he drove high performance and efficient service delivery across the KPMG network. He currently chairs KPMG’s Northern Ireland Advisory Board. Shaun is a Non-Executive Director of CRH plc, an international group of diversified building materials businesses, where he is the Chair of the Audit Committee. He also sits on the Board of Park Indemnity a private Bermuda based captive insurance company. Shaun held numerous leadership roles within KPMG in including Vice Chair – Operations for KPMG LLP (2010-2015), Vice Chair in charge of KPMG’s U.S. Tax practice and Regional Head of the Americas Tax practice (2005-2010) , member of the firm’s Management Committee (2005-2015) and leader for KPMG’s US and Global Transaction Services practices and Regional Coordinating Partner for the Transaction Services practice in the Americas (2001-2005). Shaun grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and joined KPMG International’s Irish member firm in Dublin in 1980 and transferred to the U.S. firm’s San Francisco office in 1984. He was admitted to the U.S. partnership in 1999. Shaun earned a Bachelor of Commerce, First Class Honors from University College, Dublin. He is a Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland In 2015 Shaun was awarded a degree of Doctor of Science Economics, honoris causa by Queens University, Belfast. In December 2020, Shaun was awarded an honorary Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Her Majesty the Queen in recognition of his services to economic development in Northern Ireland. **Content Type:** Annual Gala **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2021 --- ### [NCAFP 2021 Virtual Gala Honorees](https://ncafp.org/resources/ncafp-2021-virtual-gala-honoree-michelle-howard/) **Published:** August 24, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## The George F. Kennan Award for Distinguished Public Service ![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Michelle-Howard-Photo-2-680x453-1.jpg) ## Admiral (ret.) Michelle Howard *United States Navy Four-Star Admiral* Michelle J. Howard served 35 years in the United States Navy.  She led Sailors and Marines multiple times in her career as the Commander of:  a ship, an Expeditionary Strike Group, Task Force, and a Naval theater. Her last command was from 2016 to 2017 as U.S. Naval Forces Europe and U.S. Naval Forces Africa. She simultaneously led NATO’s Allied Joint Force Command Naples with oversight of missions from the Western Balkans to Iraq.  Operations in her career include NATO peacekeeping, West African Training Cruise, Indonesia Tsunami Relief operations, and the rescue of Maersk Alabama from Somali Pirates.  Michelle is a Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran. In 1999 Michelle J. Howard became the first African American woman to command a ship in the Navy.  In 2014, she was the first woman to become a four-star Admiral in the U.S. Navy and the first woman to be appointed to the position of Vice Chief of Naval Operations (number two in a Military Service).  She is the first African American woman to reach the rank of three-star and four-stars in the Armed Forces. Michelle J. Howard was the Shapiro Visiting Professor at the Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University from 2018 to 2020.  She taught courses on cyber and policy.   She is on the board of directors for IBM. **Content Type:** Annual Gala **Topic:** Annual Gala Awards **Year:** 2021 --- ### [REPORT: Cross-Strait Dynamics in the COVID-19 Era](https://ncafp.org/resources/cross-strait-dynamics-in-the-covid-19-era-searching-for-continuity-despite-growing-social-distancing/) **Published:** April 30, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** [Click here to download the full PDF report.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Final-NCAFP_Cross-Strait-Report_April-2020.pdf) ## ***Cross-Strait Dynamics in the COVID-19 Era: Searching for Continuity Despite Greater “Social Distancing”*** The NCAFP continued its Track II videoconferences in April with a discussion among participants from the US, the PRC and Taiwan. In advance of Tsai Ing-wen’s second inaugural ceremony and amid the acute stresses and geopolitical drama of the international pandemic response, the NCAFP’s Forum on Asia-Pacific Security convened prominent scholars and former officials from all three sides to assess the opportunities and challenges in cross-Strait relations over the next few months. The conversation covered the following questions: - What are the expectations of each side for Tsai Ing-wen’s May 20 speech? - What are the major risks for cross-Strait relations in the short term? - What policies should be recommended to address these risks? For a summary of the key ideas and recommendations, please click here to read the report. [Download the full PDF report.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Final-NCAFP_Cross-Strait-Report_April-2020.pdf) **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, China, Taiwan-Strait **Year:** 2020 --- ### [Statement on the Passing of John Hume](https://ncafp.org/resources/statement-on-the-passing-of-john-hume/) **Published:** August 3, 2020 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## Statement on the Passing of John Hume ### Today The National Committee on American Foreign Policy and its Board of Trustees mourn the passing of John Hume, an architect of peace and Nobel laureate whose life’s work helped bring an end to sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.  [Full statement on the passing of John Hume is available.](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/John-Hume-statement-2.pdf) **Topic:** Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2020 --- ### [WATCH: Next-Gen Perspectives on Korean Peninsula Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/event-next-gen-perspectives-on-korean-peninsula-security/) **Published:** December 1, 2021 **Author:** ncafp **Content:** ## **December 15, 2021 \| 7:00PM – 8:00PM (ET)** [Click Here to Read the Paper](https://youtu.be/9_bEMLlUMSM) [Click Here to Read the Report](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/FINAL_NCAFP-Emerging-Leaders-Edited-Volume-2021.pdf) The Korean Peninsula is important to the security of the Indo-Pacific region, whether it’s the ever-persistent challenge of trying to negotiate with North Korea, the future of the US-ROK alliance in addressing traditional and non-traditional security issues, or the ROK’s broader role in the region amidst concerns about China’s rise and major power competition. Throughout the year, the NCAFP brought together a group of ten next-generation scholars and experts from all over the world to share their research ideas related to these topics and discuss how to translate that research into policy recommendations. Please join us for a discussion with these emerging leaders as they share their insights on addressing Korean Peninsula security issues. ## ***Featuring*** **Mr. Matt ABBOTT** *Director of Government and Diplomatic Programs* Chicago Council of Global Affairs **Mr. Jonathan CORRADO** *Policy Director* The Korea Society **Dr. Darcie DRAUDT** *Postdoctoral Fellow, Institute for Korean Studies* Elliott School of International Studies George Washington University **Mr. Maximilian ERNST** *PhD Candidate* Free University Brussels (VUB) **Ms. Jarret FISHER** *Graduate Student, SAIS* Johns Hopkins University **Mr. Alexander M. HYND** *PhD Candidate* University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney **Lt. Shaquille JAMES** *Officer, Global Strike Command* United States Air Force **Ms. Sea Young (Sarah) KIM** *PhD Candidate in International Cooperation* Yonsei University **Mr. Kyungwon SUH** *PhD Candidate in Political Science* Syracuse University **Ms. Shuqi WANG** *PhD Candidate in Public Policy and Global Affairs* Nanyang Technological University ## ***Moderated by*** **Ms. Susan A. THORNTON** *Project Director, Forum on Asia-Pacific Security* NCAFP ***\*\*\*** This emerging leaders workshop was made possible by the generous support of:*  *Carnegie Corporation of New York* *Henry Luce Foundation* *Korea Foundation*  *John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation* **Topic:** Asia-Pacific Security **Region:** Asia-Pacific, Korean Peninsula **Year:** 2021 --- ### [Announcing This Year's Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/) **Published:** November 30, 2023 **Author:** Amanda Ghanooni **Content:** [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Page-1-1-1.png)](https://ncafp.org/announcing-this-years-northern-ireland-emerging-leaders/page-1-1-2/) [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Page-2-1.png)](https://ncafp.org/?attachment_id=94306) [![](https://ncafp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Page-1-Test-1.png)](https://ncafp.org/?attachment_id=94288) **Topic:** Emerging Leaders, Regional Security **Region:** Europe **Year:** 2023 --- ## Teams ### [Thomas Banchoff](https://ncafp.org/team/dr-thomas-banchoff/) **Published:** June 11, 2026 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Dr. Thomas Banchoff** is director of the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University, where he also serves as vice president for global engagement and professor in the Department of Government and the Walsh School of Foreign Service. Banchoff founded Georgetown’s Initiative for US-China Dialogue on Global Issues and the Georgetown Global Dialogues. He co-chairs the Task Force on Global Citizenship of the International Association of Jesuit Universities. Banchoff’s scholarship centers on ethical and religious issues in world politics. He is the author of Embryo Politics: Ethics and Policy in Atlantic Democracies (Cornell University Press) and The German Problem Transformed (University of Michigan Press). His edited volumes include The Jesuits and Globalization: Historical Legacies and Contemporary Challenges (Georgetown University Press), Religion and the Global Politics of Human Rights (Oxford University Press), Religious Pluralism, Globalization, and World Politics (Oxford University Press) and Democracy and the New Religious Pluralism (Oxford University Press). He has written for The Washington Post, Commonweal, The Tablet, and other outlets. Banchoff received a B.A. from Yale University, M.A. from the University of Bonn and Ph.D. in politics from Princeton University. He held a James Bryant Conant Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Harvard’s Center for European Studies, has served as a Humboldt Fellow, and was awarded the DAAD Prize for Distinguished Scholarship in German studies. --- ### [Susan A. Thornton](https://ncafp.org/team/susan-a-thornton/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Susan A. Thornton** is the Director of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security at the NCAFP, Visiting Lecturer in Law at Yale Law School and Senior Fellow at the Paul Tsai China Center. In 2018, she retired from the State Department after a 28-year diplomatic career focused primarily on East and Central Asia. In leadership roles in Washington, Thornton worked on China and Korea policy, including stabilizing relations with Taiwan, the U.S.-China Cyber Agreement, the Paris Climate Accord and led a successful negotiation in Pyongyang for monitoring of the Agreed Framework on denuclearization. In her 18 years of overseas postings in Central Asia, Russia, the Caucasus and China, Thornton’s leadership furthered U.S. interests and influence and maintained programs and mission morale in a host of difficult operating environments. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, she was among the first State Department Fascell Fellows and served from 1989–90 at the U.S. Consulate in Leningrad. She was also a researcher at the Foreign Policy Institute from 1987–91. Thornton holds degrees from the National Defense University’s Eisenhower School, the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and Bowdoin College. She speaks Russian, Mandarin Chinese and French, is a member of numerous professional associations and is on the Board of Trustees for the Eurasia Foundation. --- ### [Thomas S. Hexner](https://ncafp.org/team/thomas-s-hexner/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Thomas S. Hexner** is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Value Trust Capital LLC, a New York based investment firm. He previously served as President of Bernstein Investment Research and Management, where he led the firm’s global private client business. Mr. Hexner has long been active in educational, civic, and cultural organizations in New York City and beyond. He has served on the Board of the Gracie Mansion Conservancy, the Board of Trustees of The Browning School, where he also served as Treasurer, the Board of Regents of Georgetown University, and as a Trustee of The Washington Institute for Near East Policy. In addition to his professional and civic activities, Mr. Hexner is a private pilot. He is a graduate of Hamilton College. --- ### [Charles Landow](https://ncafp.org/team/charles-landow/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Charles Landow** is a Senior Advisor and Director of Special Initiatives at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School, supporting Belfer Center Director Meghan O’Sullivan. He is also an Adjunct Instructor of Political Science at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Landow came to the Belfer Center after serving as chief of staff for former Treasury Secretary Robert E. Rubin. He previously held several roles at the Council on Foreign Relations, including special assistant for research to President Richard Haass, director of the Model Diplomacy educational simulation, and associate director of a research program on economic and political development. In 2013, Landow served as research director for the chair and vice chair of multi-party political negotiations in Northern Ireland. He worked earlier in his career at the International Labour Organization in Geneva and for Senator E. Benjamin Nelson in Washington. Landow earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Columbia University and a master’s degree in international affairs from Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs. His writings on international affairs and philanthropy have appeared in such outlets as the International Herald Tribune, the Wall Street Journal, CNN.com, ForeignPolicy.com, and CFR.org. He is an editor of Pathways to Freedom: Political and Economic Lessons From Democratic Transitions (2013). A native of Omaha, Landow speaks fluent French, advanced Spanish, and basic German and Italian. --- ### [David Lakhdhir, Esq.](https://ncafp.org/team/david-lakhdhir-esq/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **David Lakhdhir**, a partner at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP for over 30 years, is a lawyer with a practice spanning three continents and a wide range of cross-border M&A, foreign investment, and other international business transactions. He began his legal career in the firm’s New York headquarters, was partner-in-charge of his firm’s office in Tokyo during the 1990s and then co-founded and -ran its London office for almost two decades. His clients have included several of the world’s largest financial institutions and private equity houses, major U.S., European, and Asian multinational enterprises, and several arms of the U.S. government. Mr. Lakhdhir is the Chair of the board of trustees of the American University of Central Asia in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic; Co-Chair of the board of directors of Human Rights Watch, Inc.; and a member of the advisory Council of JUSTICE, a U.K. law reform and human rights organization. He is also a Lecturer-in-Law at Columbia Law School. A graduate of Harvard College and the Harvard Law School, before entering private practice, Mr. Lakhdhir served as a Teaching Fellow in Harvard’s Government Department, assisting in courses on “War” and U.S. foreign policy, and spent a year as a Visiting Scholar at the Indian Law Institute in New Delhi, India. --- ### [Honorable Sung Kim](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-sung-kim/) **Published:** May 13, 2025 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Ambassador Sung Kim** represented the United States with great distinction as U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Republic of Korea. In his Foreign Service career spanning over three decades, Ambassador Kim also led U.S. diplomatic efforts on North Korea as U.S. Special Representative for the DPRK and U.S. Special Envoy for the Six Party Talks. Earlier, Kim focused on strengthening U.S. alliances with Japan and the Republic of Korea, and covered political-military relations with China. For his outstanding accomplishments in diplomacy, Ambassador Kim received a Presidential Distinguished Service Award and a Presidential Meritorious Service Award. Ambassador Kim is currently the President Hyundai Motor Company. Prior to joining the U.S. diplomatic service, he worked as a prosecutor in Los Angeles, California. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania (BA), Loyola University (JD), and the London School of Economics (LLM), and has received honorary doctorate degrees from the Catholic University of Korea and Holy Name University of the Philippines --- ### [Richard Howe, Esq.](https://ncafp.org/team/richard-howe-esq/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Richard R. Howe** is the Executive Vice President. Mr. Howe is a lawyer at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP in New York, specializing in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and financial institutions.  His practice has included international transactions in which he represented clients in negotiations with foreign governments, including Liberia, Guinea, Turkey, Jordan, Haiti, China, Australia and Indonesia, among others. Mr. Howe was Chair of the New York State Bar Association Business Law Section in 1992-1993 and was a co-founder of the Soviet-American Banking Law Working Group (SABLAW) which presented a conference on Banking in a Market Economy in Moscow in May 1992.  SABLAW wrote a book on the basics of banking that was translated into Russian, printed by the Russian Central Bank and distributed to law and business schools in Russia.  In 1993, Mr. Howe participated in a similar conference in Mongolia. Mr. Howe participated in the NCAFP’s trips to Kazakhstan in 2005 and 2007 and in NCAFP projects involving U.S.-China relations, Cross-Strait relations, the Korean peninsula and U.S.-Japan relations. In addition to continuing to practice law, Mr. Howe serves on Bar Association committees dealing with legal opinions, is President and a director of Peoples’ Symphony Concerts of New York City and is a member of The Corporation of Yaddo of Saratoga Springs, New York. Mr. Howe is a graduate of Yale University (B.A., *magna cum laude*, 1964) and Harvard Law School (J.D., *magna cum laude*, 1967). --- ### [Honorable Jeffrey R. Shafer](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-jeffrey-r-shafer/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Jeffrey R. Shafer** is Chair Emeritus and a Trustee of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. He is also a Member of the Management Board of S&P Global Ratings. From 2011 to 2019 he provided advice on economic and political developments as principal of JRSHAFER INSIGHT. From 1997 to 2011 he was Vice Chairman of Global Banking in Citigroup and predecessor institutions.  He served as Senior Asia Pacific Officer in New York.  Prior to this, he established and headed Citi’s Economic and Political Strategies Group. Still earlier in his fourteen years with Citi he worked with governments in Asia, Latin America and Europe on financial stabilization, liability management, debt issuance and privatization. From 1993 to 1997, Mr. Shafer was Assistant Secretary and subsequently Under Secretary of the U.S. Treasury for International Affairs. At the Treasury Department, he focused on strengthening economic growth and financial stability in both developed and developing countries, fostering financial market development and liberalization, and strengthening the IMF and multilateral development banks. He was also responsible for the inter-agency CFIUS process to review foreign investment in the United States. From 1984 until 1993, Mr. Shafer held a series of high-level positions at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).  Prior to the OECD, he served with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the Federal Reserve Board and the Council of Economic Advisors. He served as an officer with the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam in 1967-68 and was awarded the bronze star with “V” device and oak leaf cluster. Mr. Shafer holds a B.A. in Economics from Princeton University and M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees in Economics from Yale University.  He has taught at Princeton, Columbia, Carnegie Mellon and Yale Universities. In addition to his role with the NCAFP, he is a Member of the Council on Foreign Relations. --- ### [Ray Eason](https://ncafp.org/team/ray-eason/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Ray Eason** is an Executive Director in the Corporate and Investment Bank division of JP Morgan, helping clients finance sizable loan portfolios ($500 million to $1 billion) with both short- and long-term funding and/or investment objectives.  Ray also currently volunteers as the Chief Financial Officer of the Harvard Business School Club of Greater New York, as well as, serving as the finance chairman on the board of STEM Teachers NYC and as the Co-President of the Harvard Business School African American Alumni Association.    Prior to his eight years at JP Morgan, Ray was an Executive Director at Morgan Stanley where he worked for eleven years in the Fixed Income Division, Sales and Trading.  Prior to Morgan Stanley, Ray served our nation for eight years as a finance officer in the United States Army (with command assignments to the 101st Airborne Division, deployments to Haiti and South Korea, as well as his previous selection as a mathematics faculty member at West Point). Over the course of his career, Ray has advised and structured approximately $210 billion of financial transactions for both government and corporate clients.  Ray is responsible for structuring and modeling strategic securitizations for primary issuance, secondary trading and analysis of aircraft leasing deals, student loan transactions (FFELP, consolidated, and private loans) utility stranded costs financings, and deals involving other esoteric securitized assets. Ray works extensively with institutional investors, co-lead banks & syndicate desks, issuers and rating agencies in completing transactions, including optimization of every aspect of debt financing and credit enhancement as well as residual valuation and yield analysis.  Ray’s desk provides quantitative and analytical support to facilitate deal marketing in conjunction with the capital market coverage business as well as solidifying investment banking relationships. Ray received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from West Point (Class of 1994), two Masters of Science degrees from Oxford University, where he was a Marshall Scholar (1994-1996), and his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School (Class of 2004).    Ray Eason is married to Adrienne Eason-Wheatley, who is a graduate of Princeton University, Harvard Kennedy School, and Harvard Law School and who is now senior managing counsel at Bank of New York Mellon.  They have one son, Raymond Eason III. --- ### [Alexander Robinson](https://ncafp.org/team/alexander-robinson/) **Published:** October 17, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Alexander Robinson** is a partner, co-founder, and head of research at Tenor Capital Management Co., L.P., an alternative asset management firm founded in 2003 with over $3 billion in assets that has grown to be one of the largest convertible arbitrage funds and international commercial litigation funds worldwide. He also serves as Chairman of the Robinson Family Foundation. At Tenor, Mr. Robinson leads the team responsible for idea generation and security selection. He began his investing career as an equity research analyst at Goldman Sachs & Co., then became a convertible research analyst at Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette, Inc., and later at J.P. Morgan. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Mr. Robinson is a graduate of Phillips Exeter Academy and received his Bachelor of Science degree in economics and mathematics from Haverford College. Mr. Robinson is a member of the Board of Managers at Haverford College and a Trustee and Treasurer of The Dalton School, an independent K-12 school in New York. He and his wife live in New York City with their three daughters. --- ### [Honorable Susan M. Elliott](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-susan-m-elliott/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Ambassador Susan M. Elliott** is an accomplished diplomat with an earned doctorate from Indiana University. During her 27-year diplomatic career, Ambassador Elliott held a variety of leadership positions at the U.S. Department of State. She became President and CEO of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy in August 2018. From 2015 to 2017, Ambassador Elliott served as the Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of the United States European Command. Ambassador Elliott was the U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan from 2012 to 2015. Prior to her Ambassadorial appointment, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Ambassador Elliott joined the U.S. Department of State in March 1990. During her Foreign Service career, Ambassador Elliott worked in a variety of overseas and Washington-based assignments. Her previous overseas assignments include Minister Counselor for Political Affairs in Moscow, Russia; Principal Officer in Belfast, Northern Ireland; Deputy Economic Counselor and Visa Section Chief in Athens, Greece. Other overseas assignments include Moscow, Russia and Lima, Peru. Ambassador Elliott worked on the staff of former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice as a Deputy Executive Secretary and Director of the Executive Secretariat Staff. Earlier in her career she reported on conflicts in the countries of the former Soviet Union when she worked in the Office of the Coordinator for Regional Conflicts in the New Independent States. --- ### [Jacqueline Adams](https://ncafp.org/team/jacqueline-adams/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Jaqueline Adams** is a journalist, author, consultant and convener. After more than two decades as an Emmy Award-winning CBS News correspondent, she launched her boutique consulting firm, J Adams: Strategic Communications, LLC., and works with both corporate and non-profit clients. Ms. Adams is the co-founder of  the training program for rising star managers of color, [The Diverse Future.](https://www.diversefuture.org/about/)  She also serves as a senior advisor to the B-2-B firm, [NicklPass,](https://www.nicklpass.com/) which provides easy access to subscriptions via one login for teams. In 2020, she co-authored, “[A Blessing: Women of Color Teaming Up to Lead, Empower and Thrive](https://leadempowerthrive.com/)” as well as the subsequent Executive Summaries for the 2019, 2020, and 2021 proprietary surveys, [“U.S Women of Color in Business: Cross Generational Survey©.”](https://leadempowerthrive.com/research2021)   In 2022, she launched an on-going series of [Climate Story ](https://www.hbs.edu/environment/blog/Pages/default.aspx)blogs for the Harvard Business School Business and Environment Initiative. At CBS News, Ms. Adams spent five years as a White House correspondent during the Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush administrations.  In the 1990s, she was a prolific contributor to the *CBS Evening News with Dan Rather* and *CBS News Sunday Morning.* She serves on the boards of the Harvard Business School Club of New York and the National Committee on American Foreign Policy.  Ms. Adams is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the International Advisory Committee of the United States Institute of Peace, and the Advisory Council of the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream.  She is a patron of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. --- ### [Honorable Karl Eikenberry](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-karl-eikenberry/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Karl Eikenberry** is a Distinguished Fellow at the Stimson Center; Senior Advisor to the United States Institute of Peace; and faculty member of Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University. His almost four decades of national service culminated as the U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan from 2009 until 2011.  Before appointment as Chief of Mission in Kabul, Ambassador Eikenberry had a thirty-five-year career in the United States Army, retiring in 2009 with the rank of lieutenant general.  His military operational posts included commander and staff officer with mechanized, light, airborne, and ranger infantry units in the continental U.S., Hawaii, Korea, Italy, and in Afghanistan as the Commander of the American-led Coalition forces.  He held various policy and political-military positions ranging from Deputy Chairman of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Military Committee in Brussels, Belgium; Director for Strategic Planning and Policy for U.S. Pacific Command at Camp Smith, Hawaii; U.S. Security Coordinator and Chief of the Office of Military Cooperation in Kabul, Afghanistan; Senior Country Director for China and Taiwan, Office of the Secretary of Defense; and Assistant Army and later Defense Attaché at the United States Embassy in Beijing, China. After his diplomatic and military career, Ambassador Eikenberry taught at Stanford University and later advised on Saudi Arabia defense transformation planning. Ambassador Eikenberry is a Presidentially appointed Member of the National Security Education Board and Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.  He serves on the boards of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, The Asia Foundation, and American Councils for International Education, and is the recipient of the United States Military Academy Distinguished Graduate Award and Harvard University Centennial Medal. --- ### [Honorable Harry K. Thomas Jr.](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-harry-k-thomas-jr/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Harry K. Thomas Jr.** is a Senior Kissinger Fellow at Yale University’s Jackson School of Global Affairs, a private business consultant and an international affairs lecturer.  Over his 34-year Foreign Service career, he represented the United States abroad as Ambassador three times and served in senior positions at the State Department and the White House. He served as ambassador to Zimbabwe, the Philippines and Bangladesh. Ambassador Thomas also served as the State Department’s Executive Secretary and Special Assistant to Secretary Rice, Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources, Director for South Asia at the National Security Council and Director of the Operations Center. Ambassador Thomas speaks Spanish, Hindi, Bengali and conversational Tagalog.  He is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross and holds a master’s from Columbia University.  Ambassador Thomas holds Honorary Doctorates from the College of the Holy Cross, Loyola University of Maryland and Angeles University Foundation of the Philippines and was the Commencement Speaker at these institutions. --- ### [Nicholas Thompson](https://ncafp.org/team/nicholas-thompson/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Nicholas Thompson** is the CEO of The Atlantic, a position he has held since 2021. During that time, the publication has won three National Magazine Awards for General Excellence, three Pulitzer Prizes, and been named Digiday’s Publisher of the Year. It has also significantly grown revenue, while reaching the highest level of subscribers in its 167-year history. Thompson is the former editor-in-chief of WIRED, where he built successful subscription and affiliate revenue businesses. While at WIRED he also wrote and edited multiple stories that were cited in front of Congress and one that was turned into an Academy Award winning film. Another of his stories was recently turned into a documentary on HBO Max. Thompson is a former contributor for CBS News. He is also a cofounder of The Atavist, a multimedia CMS that was sold to WordPress, and of Speakeasy.ai, which was sold to Amplica Labs. He previously served as editor of NewYorker.com. He is a life member at the Council on Foreign Relations, a board member at The National Committee on American Foreign Policy, the author of “The Hawk and the Dove: Paul Nitze, George Kennan, and the History of the Cold War,” and a former contributor to CNN and CBS News. He films a daily video on tech policy for Linkedin. Thompson has long been a competitive runner; in 2021, he set the American record for men 45+ in the 50K race. --- ### [Grace Kennan Warnecke](https://ncafp.org/team/grace-kennan-warnecke/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Grace Kennan Warnecke** has had a lifelong association with Russia and the former Soviet Union. She is formerly Chairman of the Board of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, and is outgoing chair of the National Advisory Council, Harriman Institute, at Columbia University, as well as a member of the Advisory Council of the Kennan Institute. She served as country director for Winrock International in Kyiv, Ukraine, from 1999 to 2003. The former president of SOVUS Business Consultants, she was also the founder and project supervisor of the Volkhov International Small Business Incubator in Russia and executive vice president of the Alliance of American and Russian Women. She was founding executive director of the American-Soviet Youth Orchestra and associate producer of the prize-winning PBS documentary *The First Fifty Years: Reflections on U.S.-Soviet Relations.* As a professional photographer she was senior editor of *A Day in the Life of the Soviet Union.* She has served as an election observer in Ukraine, Azerbaijan and Georgia. In 2013 she was named a senior scholar at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C. Grace is the author of *Daughter of the Cold War,* published by the University of Pittsburgh Press in 2018. --- ### [Bridget Foley](https://ncafp.org/team/bridget-foley/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Bridget Foley** is a member of the board of the National Committee on Foreign Policy. Previously, she chaired the Foreign Policy Association’s *Off the Record Lecture Series* and served on its board for eight years as the head of OTR’s speakers committee. Ms. Foley won three Emmy Awards in her role as a producer for *CBS News*. She has produced pieces for *60 Minutes*, *CBS Sunday Morning*, S*unday Evening News with Bob Schiffer* and *Eye to Eye* *with Connie Chung*, among other programs. She has covered a broad array of stories including conflicts in the Middle East, the transfer of power in Russia and presidential elections in the United States. Ms. Foley graduated from Georgetown University with a bachelor’s degree in History and received her Master of Arts in American Studies from Columbia University. She serves on the Board of Visitors for Columbia University’s History Department. --- ### [Honorable Thomas Pickering](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-thomas-pickering/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Ambassador Thomas Pickering** retired from the State Department as Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs. In a diplomatic career with service in each of the major continents. He served as U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation, India, Israel, El Salvador; Nigeria, and Jordan. He also was the U.S. Ambassador and Representative to the United Nations in New York, where he led the U.S. effort to build a coalition in the UN Security Council during and after the first Gulf War. He has held additional positions in Tanzania, Geneva, and Washington, including as Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Oceans, Environmental and Scientific Affairs and as Executive Secretary of the Department and Special Assistant to Secretaries of State William P. Rogers and Henry A. Kissinger. Ambassador Pickering was awarded the Distinguished Presidential Award in 1983 and 1986, and the Distinguished Service Award, the U.S. Department of State’s highest honor, in 1996. He also holds the rank of Career Ambassador, the highest in the U.S. Foreign Service. After retiring from the State Department in 2000, Ambassador Pickering joined The Boeing Company as Senior Vice President International Relations and member of the Executive Council, where he was responsible for the Company’s relations with foreign governments and the globalization of Boeing. Ambassador Pickering holds a B.A. from Bowdoin College, an M.A.L.D. from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and a second M.A. from the University of Melbourne in Australia, where he studied under a Fulbright Scholarship. --- ### [Honorable David I. Adelman](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-david-i-adelman/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Ambassador (ret.) David Adelman** is Managing Director and General Counsel for asset manager Krane Funds Advisors. He also serves as an advisor to several private equity firms. He previously was a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs in Hong Kong and partner in two global law firms practicing law in New York, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta. David was the 15th United States Ambassador to Singapore serving during the first term of the Obama-Biden Administration. He previously was an appointed member of the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s Capital Markets Committee and served on the Executive Board of the Hong Kong Treasury Markets Association. David was a member of the Board of Governors of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. David is a Trustee of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Advisory Board of the Israel-Asia Center. He is an Adjunct Professor at New York University where he teaches international relations of the Asia-Pacific region at the graduate level. David received his J.D. from Emory University where he is a recipient of the Emory Medal. He earned an M.P.A from Georgia State University and B.A. from the University of Georgia. David and his wife Caroline reside in New York City and have three adult children. --- ### [Dr. George D. Schwab](https://ncafp.org/team/dr-george-d-schwab/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **George D. Schwab**, co-founded the National Committee on American Foreign Policy in 1974 and served as its president from 1993-2014. In the fall of 2001 the National Committee received a private endowment designed to honor the work of Professor Schwab which led to the creation of the George D. Schwab Foreign Policy Briefings. His most recently published “Odyssey of a Child Survivor” (2021), outlines his childhood in Latvia, survival of the Holocaust, and how he would eventually create the NCAFP with renowned political scientist, Hans J. Morgenthau. George D. Schwab earned his Ph.D. at Columbia University and taught there until he joined the faculty of the Department of History at the City College of the City University of New York (CUNY) in 1960. He is now professor emeritus of history (City College and the Graduate Center). George D. Schwab is the author, editor, and translator of numerous books and articles. He coauthored *Journey to Belfast* and London with William J. Flynn, published by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy in February 1999. Professor Schwab received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in May 1998. He serves on several committees of the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., and the Latvian President’s Commission of International Historians. In 2002 he received the Order of the Three Stars, Latvia’s highest honor, in a ceremony held in Riga. --- ### [John V. Connorton, Jr., Esq.](https://ncafp.org/team/john-v-connorton-jr-esq/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **John Connorton** practiced law at Hawkins, Delafield and Wood, LLP for 43 years. Specializing in the law of public finance and municipal bonds, he participated in a wide range of capital infrastructure project financings throughout the United States. He has served as special counsel to a number of large universities and corporations, including those doing business in Northern Ireland. He served as an Assistant Counsel to the Governor of the State of New York, during which time he participated in drafting and negotiating legislation rescuing the Urban Development Corporation from insolvency; authorizing the creation of the Municipal Assistance Corporation for The City of New York; authorizing the creation of Emergency Financial Control Boards for the cities of New York and Yonkers; and authorizing the creation of the Public Authorities Control Board. As a Naval Officer, he deployed twice to Vietnam on board USS Vancouver LPD-2. He has long been also involved in numerous charitable, cultural, and civic activities, including his involvement as a member of the Boards of the Alliance for Downtown, the Downtown Lower Manhattan Association and the National Committee on American Foreign Policy. He has also served as a Partner in the Partnership for the City of New York and a member of the Board of Directors of the Academy of Political Science, the Citizens Union, the Flax Trust, the New York City Health & Hospitals Corporation, the College of Mount St. Vincent and the Institute for Mediation and Conflict Resolution, and as a member of the New York State Health Financing Council, the New York State Temporary Commission on State and Local Fiscal Policies, the New York State Hazardous Waste Disposal Advisory Committee and the New York State Court Facilities Task Force. He has also served as the Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Chairman of the Committee on International Arms Control and Security Affairs of the Association of the Bar of the City of New York. In recognition for services to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, Queen Elizabeth II awarded Connorton an honorary “CBE” (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) and the University of Ulster awarded him an honorary Doctor of Laws. --- ### [Donald S. Rice, Esq.](https://ncafp.org/team/donald-s-rice-esq/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** **Donald S. Rice** is a Trustee and Senior Vice President of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP). He has been actively involved in a number of the NCAFP’s Track II Projects, including U.S., China and Cross Strait Relations, Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and Central Asia/Caspian Sea Basin Region, requiring travel to the involved regions and participation in numerous roundtables and preparation of reports with policy recommendations. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, he co-chaired delegations of banking lawyers to Moscow (on behalf of the Soviet American Banking Law Working Group – SABLAW) and to Mongolia (on behalf of the Financial Services Volunteer Corps – FSVC) assisting in the drafting of banking laws and regulations and the training of bankers. He has retired from the practice of law (formerly a partner at Chadbourne & Parke LLP) and has also been a banker (formerly Vice Chairman of The Bowery Savings Bank). He is a Director of Flowers National Bank, a Member and former Chairman of Yaddo, the artists’ colony in Saratoga Springs New York, a Trustee of the New Bedford Whaling Museum, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, and a former member of the Advisory Board of the Shorenstein Center for Press, Politics and Public Policy at the JFK School at Harvard University. He holds degrees from Harvard University (AB*mcl* ’61 and LLB/JD*cl* ’64) and New York University (LLM in taxation ’65). --- ### [Honorable Nancy E. Soderberg](https://ncafp.org/team/honorable-nancy-e-soderberg/) **Published:** July 29, 2024 **Author:** Elevation Support **Content:** With over thirty years of experience in foreign policy, former **Ambassador Nancy Soderberg** has served in the White House, the United Nations, the United States Senate, and on four presidential campaigns. Ambassador Soderberg is President and CEO of Soderberg Global Solutions, an international consulting firm. In 2011, President Barack Obama appointed her as Chair of the Public Interest Declassification Board, an advisory committee established by Congress to promote public access to U.S. national security decisions, a position she held through 2014. She served on the Board of the Jacksonville Port Authority 2013 to 2015. From 2001 to 2005, she ran the New York office of the International Crisis Group as Vice President. In that capacity, she advocated conflict prevention at the United Nations and other multilateral institutions. In 1997, President Bill Clinton appointed her to serve as Alternate Representative to the United Nations as a Presidential Appointee, with the rank of Ambassador. From 1993 to 97, she served as the third ranking official of the National Security Council at the White House, as Deputy Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, following her role as Staff Director of the National Security Council. Ambassador Soderberg publishes and speaks regularly on national security policy. She earned a Masters of Science Degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Vanderbilt University. --- ## Content Type ### [Annual Gala](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/annual-gala/) --- ### [Edited Volumes](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/edited-volumes/) --- ### [Events](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/events/) --- ### [Past Webinars & Events](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/past-webinars-events/) --- ### [Upcoming Events](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/upcoming-events/) --- ### [Media](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/media/) --- ### [Podcasts](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/podcasts/) --- ### [Reports](https://ncafp.org/resources/content_type/reports/) --- ## Topic ### [Annual Gala Awards](https://ncafp.org/resources/topic/annual-gala-awards/) --- ### [Asia-Pacific Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/topic/asia-pacific-security/) --- ### [Emerging Leaders](https://ncafp.org/resources/topic/emerging-leaders/) --- ### [Global Governance](https://ncafp.org/resources/topic/global-governance/) --- ### [Regional Security](https://ncafp.org/resources/topic/regional-security/) --- ## Region ### [Africa](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/africa/) --- ### [Asia-Pacific](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/asia-pacific/) --- ### [China](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/china/) --- ### [Japan](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/japan/) --- ### [Korean Peninsula](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/korean-peninsula/) --- ### [Taiwan-Strait](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/taiwan-strait/) --- ### [Central Asia](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/central-asia/) --- ### [Europe](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/europe/) --- ### [Middle East](https://ncafp.org/resources/region/middle-east/) --- ## Year ### [2024](https://ncafp.org/resources/year/2024/) --- ### [2023](https://ncafp.org/resources/year/2023/) --- ### [2022](https://ncafp.org/resources/year/2022/) --- ### [2021](https://ncafp.org/resources/year/2021/) --- ### [2020](https://ncafp.org/resources/year/2020/) --- ### [2025](https://ncafp.org/resources/year/2025/) --- ### [2026](https://ncafp.org/resources/year/2026/) --- ## Archive ### [1 ARCHIVE POSTS](https://ncafp.org/resources/archive/1-archive-posts/) --- ### [Event Archive ALL-2019](https://ncafp.org/resources/archive/event-archive-all-2019/) ---