Schedule

Note: Event times and speaker lineups are subject to change

Panel: What’s Going On in the Land of the Free?

Harvard Memorial Church | Main Hall 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel discussion will examine the current state of the German-American relationship and its impact on global politics.

Panel: Hype or Hope: Can ESG transform the world of business?

Harvard Memorial Church | Buttrick Room 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Introduction to the foundations of ESG, its achievements so far, as well as the areas where there is still potential for improvement, where it might not be sufficient to solve current sustainability problems. A particular focus is placed on comparing the implementation of ESG in Europe and the USA on a global scale. With Dr. […]

Panel: Civic Eloquence – The Future of Digital Advocacy

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Social media communications alter and challenge the structure of politics and parties significantly. We seek to discuss which potentials social media has for political communications, how influencers on social media are able to shape debates, and how their success reflects and influences the work and words of established parties. We are delighted to welcome two […]

Panel: German Mittelstand: From Local Business to International Success

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-306 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Are you curious about the secret behind the German Mittelstand's global success and eager to learn how tradition meets innovation in a transatlantic context? Join us for engaging expert talks and a lively panel discussion as we unravel the journey of German Mittelstand companies in the USA. Together with executives and thought leaders, we will […]

Panel: Inflation – the known, the unknown, and what to do about It

Harvard Kennedy School | Forum 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Inflation - is it here to stay? Are higher markups by firms to blame? How do we address the distributional consequences? Can there be a soft landing or is a recession inevitable? With Jason Furman and Isabella Weber

Panel: Geopolitical Paradigms – how do innovations shape today’s security landscape?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

A leading voice in international security and conflict studies, an expert on the evolving landscape of European defense, and a top specialist in the realms of cyber threats and intelligence operations. Together, they will provide an in-depth analysis of the present global security challenges, explore the interplay of conventional and unconventional threats, and delve into […]

Panel: Transatlantic Collaboration in the Sciences

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel seeks to discuss the scientific relationship that the United States and Germany share. This means focusing on the flow of information between the two countries, as well as how this exchange of knowledge has affected the careers and lives of many notable scientists. Further, this panel would like to highlight the changing political […]

Panel: Career Paths Beyond Sectors – Ways In and Out of the Public Sector

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

The manifold challenges of today’s age require dedicated leaders in public service that equally understand the world of the private and the non-profit sector - often referred to as tri-sector competence. In this panel, we will explore remarkable career paths in and out of the public sector. Our speakers will also reflect on the opportunities […]

Panel: The Need for Speed: Transforming Mobility in Times of Rapid Change

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-306 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel aims to explore the ongoing transformation in the mobility sector. Climate change, changing societal demands, rapidly advancing technology and high competition posed by disruptive players in the various mobility industries - the mobility sector is poised for significant changes in the future. The main foci of the panel will be climate change, evolving societal […]

Panel: Local is the New Global? The Role of Cities in Reviving Democracy

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-304 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

What needs to be done on a local level to boost democracy and facilitate social change? What are best-practices and use-cases? In an age where global dynamics constantly shift, we'll investigate the increasing influence of urban centers in shaping political landscapes. With Ulrich Hörning, Ana-Maria Trăsnea, Martin Klingst, and Maria Willett, moderated by Clara Péron

Panel: Rebuilding Ukraine, already now?

Harvard Kennedy School | Forum 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel discusses the urgent need and strategies for rebuilding Ukraine, exploring topics such as the EU and US perspectives on reconstruction, private investment during times of war, and international coordination for a successful reconstruction effort. With Nicola Beer, Beth McGrath, Mustafa Nayyem, Gulsanna Mamediieva, Konstantyn Chyzhyk, and Halyna Yanchenko, moderated by Martin Klingst

Panel: Born in Germany, raised in the US: Do all unicorns gallop into the Valley?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

The panel discussion is designed to cater to startup founders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, industry experts, and professionals interested in the dynamics of cross-border startup scaling. The event welcomes participants from both Germany and the United States, fostering cross-cultural exchange and networking opportunities. With Faruk Tuncer, Maurice Lee, Katharina Jünger, Eva-Maria Olbers, and Alexander Schmitt

Panel: Future of Biotech, Pharma and AI in Medicine

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In a world undergoing rapid technological transformation, healthcare stands as a field profoundly impacted by innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), genetic engineering, and biotechnology. The integration of AI in healthcare offers transformative potential, yet it comes with a unique set of challenges and ethical considerations. Recent biotechnological breakthroughs spanning fields such as genetic engineering, […]

Panel: Why haven’t we cured cancer?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Tremendous progress has been made in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer since the first identification of cancerous cells. Still, about ten million people die from cancer globally every year. Modern biotechnologies such as CRISPR, as well as novel computer-based approaches like artificial intelligence and the use of Big Data show promising paths to […]

Panel: Land of the Free? Home of Bureaucracy? Building Transatlantic Environments for Innovation

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Fostering digital and green innovation is a salient topic. In this panel, we are looking at the cultural, legal and financial framework that enables and drives innovation in the US and Germany. We want to explore what Germany – often known as the home of bureaucracy – can learn from the US, and what has […]

Panel: Trade Technology Council

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In this panel, we are exploring the intersection between commerce and innovation, and its profound influence on the transatlantic relationships - in light of the work of the Trade Technology Council’s work. The panel seeks to bring together a diverse group of experts from academia, the private sector, and individuals with experience in public sector […]

Panel: Regulating AI

Harvard Kennedy School | Forum 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Artificial Intelligence (AI) develops rapidly, demanding fast regulatory action. However, Artificial Intelligence poses formidable challenges from a technical, but in particular from a legal point of view. The challenges, opportunities and problems of regulating AI will be the topic of this panel. After exploring general concerns regarding the regulation of AI, the panel will develop […]

Panel: Young Voices Driving the Change in the World

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

One common stereotype about Gen Z is that they strive to have a positive impact on the world. But do they really? This event brings together five passionate and visionary young voices from North America and Germany. Join us for five short presentations on innovative ideas and actionable steps toward addressing pressing global challenges, showcasing […]

Discussion: On the Current Situation in Israel and Gaza

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In this session, the speaker will start with some thoughts on the unfolding situation in Israel/Gaza, and on what has been happening on the Harvard campus and elsewhere. The remainder is meant to be a discussion and how it has affected people on our campus and beyond. Please see the Statement on the Current Situation […]

Panel: Secure Bytes or Creative Flights? Germany’s Data Concerns and U.S. Innovation Drive

Harvard Kennedy School | Forum 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In an era defined by data-driven innovation and digital transformation, the transatlantic relationship between the United States and Germany holds immense significance. As two influential players in the global digital landscape, these nations are at the forefront of shaping the future of data governance, privacy, and innovation. This panel discussion aims to explore the complexities, […]

Panel: Reporting on War

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-304 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Reporting in war times is one of the most challenging, yet important tasks journalists face. In the fog of war, it often depends on the courage of very few journalists to ensure independent reporting, and guarantee that the truth is brought to daylight. We will discuss the difficulties of reporting about war in light of […]

Panel: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: A Transatlantic Dialogue on Feminist Foreign and Development Policy

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

At this panel, we aim to bring together feminist leaders in the foreign and development sector, especially from the CSO and government sector, from both sides of the Atlantic for a thought-provoking conversation on how to put feminist policy principles into practice. While this is a German-American conference and panel, the conversation will be led […]

Panel: Education Beyond Limits

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-306 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

The event aims at giving all participants a comprehensive insight into novel education concepts. The event features young leaders in education from Germany and the U.S. introducing digital concepts that are the future of education. We will provide a space for the exchange of innovative ideas that shape tomorrow's education including AI and digital learning […]

Panel: What’s next after ChatGPT? The next wave of AI and autonomous machines

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Join us for an insightful event exploring the future of artificial intelligence (AI). We'll discuss aligning AI with human values, addressing key deficiencies, and exploring what comes after Large Language Models. This event goes beyond language models, covering AI in scientific research, robotics, autonomous driving, and more. Discover how transatlantic collaboration can drive AI innovation […]

Panel: Deeptech Entrepreneurship

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Recently, deep-tech entrepreneurship has gained attention from politicians, practitioners and the media in Germany wondering about the "why" of it is lacking behind its US counterpart. When it comes to the commercialization and scaling of academic research, the United States outperforms Germany by a multiple. Therefore, we will use this panel event with deep tech […]

Panel: Breaking the Burnout Cycle: New Strategies for Mental Health

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-304 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Follow your passion to prevent burnout? Join us for a series of brief, enlightening talks and an engaging Q&A session featuring celebrated athletes, mental health experts, and mindfulness practitioners. Whether you're an athlete seeking harmony between your sport and other aspects of life, a professional striving for a healthier work-life balance, or simply someone keen […]

Panel: Policies for Sustainable Innovation: Between Protectionism and Climate Action

Harvard Kennedy School | Forum 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Climate change is present as ever and is one of the saddest tragedies of the commons. Green technologies are an essential tool in combating climate change. Recently, the U.S. has set strong incentives for more sustainable innovation and consumption through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The European Union has established other mechanisms, such as the […]

Panel: Bridging the Divide: How Societal Changes and Structural Disparities Influence Social Cohesion

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Societies are in a constant state of change, often evolving gradually. However, political, economic, and social events can trigger significant shifts in societal dynamics. In recent years, both Germany and the United States have experienced economic fluctuations, oscillating between financial crises and rising GDPs. Additionally, demographic changes, such as an aging population and increased immigration, […]

Panel: Innovations in Work: A Glimpse into the Future

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

How will the way we work change in the next decade? This event on the future of work will begin with a thought-provoking input by Michael Trautmann, followed by a dynamic panel discussion featuring industry experts who will explore the cutting-edge innovations shaping the future of work. With Michael Trautmann, Roman Gaida, and Nina Strassner, […]