Great Moments in International Diplomacy 4/12/22

Great Moments in International Diplomacy

These days, it can seem like international diplomacy consists of photo ops, empty words or promises, lofty champagne toasts and no real progress. But behind the scenes, real work is being done at a frenetic pace. Sometimes it leads to progress, sometimes not. What are the building blocks for successful diplomacy and why does it sometimes fail? Join former U.S. Ambassador Gary Grappo as he addresses these questions by sharing stories from some of the world’s most successful moments in diplomacy, as well as some of the failures. These will include the Peace of Westphalia in 1650, which laid the foundation for the way many nations interact with each other today. Why has it been such an enduring document? Next, learn about the formation of the Concert of Europe (1814-1914), during which the colonial powers of Europe agreed not to compete, leading to over 100 years of relative tranquility and prosperity. What led to the demise of this agreement? Might it be an approach for the so-called “great powers” of today to resolve their problems? Grappo also incorporates other examples of successful and failed diplomatic agreements, some lost to all but history. In the third and final class, Grappo compares two different diplomatic events: the Conference of San Remo after World War I, in which the European powers sought to address the problems brought about by the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire in the Middle East, and The Camp David Accords of 1978, which established peace between Egypt and Israel. Grappo contrasts the reasons for the respective successes and/or failures of both. Come away with a deep appreciation for the power of diplomacy and the reasons it works or doesn’t.

Three Zoom sessions

Tue., Apr. 12, 19, 26, 2022, 6:30–8:30 pm MT ENRICH 0609 / $120

Gary Grappo is a distinguished fellow at The Center for Middle East Studies at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies with nearly 40 years of diplomatic and public policy experience. At the U.S. State Department, he served in Jerusalem, Baghdad, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

As a retired senior U.S. diplomat, I now consider it my duty to help Americans understand not only the complexities of diplomacy but also the stakes and often hidden rewards of diplomacy in an increasingly challenging global environment. It’s especially gratifying to meet with curious and engaging adult learners, hear their interests and concerns, and share with them my perspectives, based on my experience. ~ Gary Grappo