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 You are invited to participate in GREAT DECISIONS, the largest nonpartisan study, discussion, and action program in the United States on contemporary foreign policy issues. Members all receive a briefing book featuring in-depth articles on eight global/thematic issues shaping U.S. foreign policy and the world in which we live. Each Great Decisions topic includes: historical background, description of current U.S. policy and alternative policy options, informative maps and detailed graphs. You will have the opportunity to express your views through opinion ballots that are tabulated and sent to national leaders. Sessions will be held on alternate Mondays from 11:30 to 1:00. The Friends of the Library will furnish coffee and tea. Participants are invited to bring a brown bag lunch. Dates:
Each participant is asked to purchase the briefing book. The 2007 themes include: South Africa, Mexico, the Middle East, Central Asia, global warming, international migration, war crimes, and children. Read more information on these themes at the bottom of this page. Registration is required and must be completed by December 18, 2006.
Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library 209 Lincoln Way East Mishawaka, IN 46544 574-259-5277 Reference Services, ext. 218 2007 TOPICS: Middle East Although the U.S. will remain closely engaged in Iraq during the next year, other factors have emerged to challenge stability in the region. Iran's nuclear program, the outcome of the conflict in Lebanon, and Israeli-Palestinian negotiations will all play a key role. How will these issues shape the Middle East? Climate Change How much are human practices contributing to substantial and irreversible changes to the environment? What effect are changes to the climate having in different areas of the planet? What response can the international community adopt to lessen the impact of dramatic climate change? Mexico The results of Mexico's presidential election were nearly too close to call, how will this result affect the new Mexican administration's policies? Can Felipe Calderón successfully reform Mexico's policies on energy, trade and border security and strengthen relations with the United States? Migration The movement of people across international borders can be initiated by conflict, economic reasons or the chance to achieve political freedoms. Migration issues have taken center-stage in the U.S. and EU, as citizens increasingly worry about job security and terrorism. What are the advantages and disadvantages for countries that are affected by migration? South Africa South Africa is the most developed country in Africa and has been an active leader on the continent, yet is still struggles with major issues in the post-Apartheid era. What are the political challenges facing South Africa? What impact is the AIDS epidemic playing on South Africa's economy and society? War Crimes The creation of the International Criminal Court has established a new venue for investigating and prosecuting war crimes, despite a lack of U.S. participation. Will the non-participation of the U.S. weaken the power of the ICC? What challenges are faced by the ICC in punishing war criminals? Central Asia Rich in energy supplies and strategically located, the five countries of Central Asia attract attention from the Middle East, China, Russia and the United States. How will international competition for energy supplies affect each country? What are U.S. interests in the region? Children Ensuring the safety and proper development of children is the stated
goal of the global community, yet in some countries, children are exposed
to unsafe labor practices, human trafficking, and participation in combat.
What role do private donors, governments and international organizations
play in ensuring health care, education and safety for the world's children?
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