Home » Washington Security and Defense Seminar 2024
Washington Security and Defense Seminar 2024
29 Oct 2024 -
31 Oct 2024
course masthead - 202410 WSDS

THIS SEMINAR IS ONLY OPEN TO PARTICIPANTS LOCAL TO THE WASHINGTON, DC AREA. THE PERRY CENTER WILL NOT PROVIDE MEALS, TRAVEL, OR LODGING FOR THIS EVENT.


The Washington Security and Defense Seminar (WSDS) 2024, hosted by the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense and Studies, is an annual event designed to provide knowledge on the development of security and defense policies in the United States of America. This year's WSDS will take place from October 29-31, 2024.

The main theme of the event will be "Stability Amidst Uncertainty," a title that reflects the many critical issues confronting the United States and the world in 2024-2025, all of which span across economic, political, social, and multi-domains. These issues are inherently connected and can sometimes exacerbate one another. The point of the seminar is not merely to analyze these issues, but also to help participants identify sources of stability and potential areas of progress, both in the United States and globally.

IMPORTANT DATES

DOCUMENTS / LINKS

Application Period
15 Jul 2024 -
11 Oct 2024
In-Person Phase:
29 Oct 2024 -
31 Oct 2024

COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives for WSDS 2024 include:

  • To provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the complex landscape shaping the world after the 2024 global elections super-cycle.
  • To identify and analyze the key factors shaping the current security environment, including global and regional challenges.
  • To discuss different scenarios for 2025, focusing on geopolitical dynamics, technological challenges, and evolving risks to global and regional security.
  • To provide a platform for WSDS participants where they engage in a dialogue with policymakers, academics, professionals in the think tank community, and security analysts.
  • To facilitate the development of policy networks and professional relationships, enabling participants to exchange ideas, best practices, and insights on global diplomacy and hemispheric affairs.

ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

The seminar is intended primarily for local members of the diplomatic corps of countries from the Western Hemisphere accredited to the White House and/or to the Organization of American States (including nations with OAS observer status). Additionally, the course is open to others, such as:

  • civilian representatives of international organizations,
  • academic researchers,
  • journalists,
  • and military officers based in Washington, DC.

This seminar is only open to participants local to the Washington, DC area. The Perry Center will not provide meals, travel, or lodging for this event.

Candidates must possess a university degree or, in cases where a candidate does not hold a degree, equivalent practical experience. Military and police personnel must have completed a command and staff course or equivalent. Exceptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

There are no language requirements for this seminar. Simultaneous interpretation between English and Spanish will be provided.

COURSE FACULTY

Arturo Sotomayor
Dr. Arturo Sotomayor
Seminar Coordinator
Mr. Jeffrey Zinsmeister
Prof. Jeffrey Zinsmeister
Deputy Seminar Coordinator
William J. Perry Center