GREAT DECISIONS
GREAT DECISIONS
The League sponsors the discussion group Great Decisions and we are assessing continuing in 2026, dependent on sufficient interest. The group meets from March through October and each month discusses a chapter from the Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions booklet. The books are available at the FPA website https://fpa.org/great-decisions/and cost $35 plus shipping, handling and tax. We meet the first Thursday of the month, via Zoom, at 10AM for approximately 2 hours. The topics for 2026 are listed below and are always relevant to world events. Consider joining for some or all of the sessions. Exact dates and times on our calendar are subject to change.
Great Decisions topics 2026
America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
Trump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy. By G. John Ikenberry
Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics? By Michael Mastanduno
U.S.-China Relations
Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan.
Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options? By Oriana Mastro
Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
U.S. alliance skepticism may drive countries like Japan and South Korea to reconsider nuclear options. What are the implications of the Trump administration’s rethinking of the U.S. alliance system for regional and global security? Will this new uncertainty alter the way allies and rivals in various regions make decisions about security and nuclear weapons? By Gideon Rose
Ukraine and the Future of European Security
With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond? By Thomas Wright
Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance. By Scott Bessent (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
U.S. Engagement of Africa
Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa? By Jendayi E. Frazer
The Future of Human Rights and International Law
As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity? By Jose Enrique Alvarez
Contact Fran Holmes at Lwvbn@lwvbn.org with your interest by putting her name in the subject line.