Schedule

Note: Event times and speaker lineups are subject to change

Fishbowl Discussion: Strategic Leadership in a Changing World: Military Perspectives on Global Security

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

Join us for an engaging fishbowl discussion on Military Diplomacy and the Transatlantic Security Relationship, where the defense attachés from Germany and Austria in Washington, D.C. will chat directly with conference participants to explore how to address today's most pressing security challenges behind the scenes. This interactive format fosters open dialogue between participants, offering diverse […]

Climate Activism: Effective Advocacy or Polarizing Force?

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

This panel will explore the impact of climate activism on both sides of the Atlantic, examining whether it is effectively driving policy changes and public awareness or contributing to societal polarization. With increasing urgency to address climate change, the role of activism has become a contentious topic. Are the strategies employed by climate activists fostering constructive […]

Re-arming and Re-building: Navigating Modern Defense Challenges

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

What are the practical challenges with quickly building up a nation's military capabilities? After decades of stability operations abroad, both the US and Germany are now preparing for a peer-to-peer conflict. In this panel, we will hear from a diverse set of voices in the defense industry, politics, the military, and academia what they perceive […]

Economic Power Plays: Geoeconomics in a Shifting Global Order

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

In an interconnected world, economics and geopolitics are more intertwined than ever. This panel on geoeconomics will explore how nations employ financial strategies, resource control, and technological advancements to project influence and achieve political objectives. As economic tools increasingly function as extensions of statecraft, our panelists will examine the implications for global trade, security, and […]

The Meritroversy: Does a Merit-Based Higher Education System Work?

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

This panel explores the societal implications of a merit-based system in the United States and Germany. The idea of meritocracy suggests that individual success is earned solely through talent and hard work, but this notion has faced increasing scrutiny. In reality, access to opportunities is often influenced by factors such as socio-economic status, education, gender, […]

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, […]

Workshop: Empower Her – Feminist Perspectives on Foreign Policy

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

"Empower Her - Feminist Perspectives on Foreign Policy” is an interactive event dedicated to exploring the visionary concept of Feminist Foreign Policy (FFP). It brings together influential politicians, activists, academics, and organizations that address global challenges through a gender-inclusive lens. By acknowledging the enriching perspectives and expertise of women in foreign policy, we aspire to […]

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: 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 […]

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 […]

Workshop: From All Hell to Oh Well. How to Build Resilience

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

In today's challenging world, it's more important than ever to prioritize mental health, foster resilience, and promote a culture of empathy and support. In this workshop, Rick and Fairlee will explore with the participants how to navigate the complexities of life and build a society that truly takes care of one another. With Rick Wolthusen […]

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: 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 […]