Be part of a lively, intimate discussion about the new National Security Strategy (NSS) of the United States, which introduces dramatic and consequential shifts in American foreign policy. The NSS has been both hailed as a creative, realistic, and pragmatic vision for America's future and derided as a flawed, historically inept, and dangerous manifesto for America's decline and collapse as leader of the free world. Come share your views on this novel approach to America's role in the world.

Expect differing opinions, opposing positions and contrasting views. Come prepared to share your views and speak your mind about some of the most pressing international issues facing us today! 

Explore the Issue - Debate the Questions: A ‘DCFR salon’ is a social gathering where people respectfully discuss, exchange, and consider critical ideas, policy, and philosophy with respect to international relations and its impact on Colorado and the world.

Please note, DCFR Salons are members-only and it is limited to the first 15 guests. This is your chance to really get to know other members and learn from each other! 

Some questions to be debated:

1. "America First," this may be good politics - is it good foreign policy?
2. In the first year of this Administration, the U.S. has bombed or put "boots on the ground" in Venezuela, Syria, Iran, Yemen, Iraq, Nigeria and the Caribbean Sea -- is this America First protecting American interests or is it foreign interventions diverting attention and resources from America?
3. Among issues in this Administration's NSS - as opposed to all prior NSS's - of possible concern are (a) a lack of any foreign power identified with malign interests to the U.S., (b) human rights are not mentioned as a goal or priority of American foreign policy, (c) the EU is quickly dismissed as approaching "civilization erasure." Progress....or a problem? and (d) adopting a "corollary to the Monroe Doctrine" (Donroe Doctrine) which purports to elevate the Western Hemisphere to exclusive U.S. hegemony?
4. Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, said that the NSS is "...largely consistent with our vision." Does this bode for good or difficult relations with Russia?   
5. Dr. Henry Farrell, Prof. of International Relations - Johns Hopkins, has suggested that the EU/NATO allies use its "trade bazooka" (total trade war including higher tariffs, trade embargos, deny access to financial markets, ban foreign investment, revoke intellectual property rights, etc., etc.) to retaliate and punish the U.S. for its military and economic threats demanding Greenland and other subservient behaviors.  Is the U.S. triggering a trade war with its closest allies?  

Location: Tech Center Location Provided to Registrants Before Event

Provided: Snacks, refreshments and conversation!

Moderator: Hon. Sidney B. Brooks

A Few Topical Article Recommendations:

1. The New National Security Strategy from the White House
2. Anne Applebaum’s article from Atlantic Magazine: The Longest Suicide Note in American History.
3. The National Security Strategy: The Good, the Not So Great, and the Alarm Bells by  Emily Harding