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Washington Security and Defense Seminar 2024
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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.

COURSE STRUCTURE

This seminar is conducted across three full days (0900 - 1630) using a combination of suggested readings, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and policy debates.

Each day will be dedicated to analyzing a specific topic within the general theme of "stability amidst uncertainty." Day one delves into the global election season's impact, providing context for the 2024 US and international elections. Day two examines far-reaching global trends and equips participants with tools for anticipating uncertain outcomes, including political transitions and potential crises. The final day explores enduring issues shaping Western Hemispheric relations, such as defense, security, regional stability, and geo-economics, among others. This comprehensive seminar offers valuable insights for diplomats and security professionals navigating an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

Day 1 - Democracy's Dice: Elections in the US and Globally

  • The World Votes: Insights and Implications from 2024 Elections
  • Beyond the Ballot: Understanding the Mechanics of the 2024 Election
  • Electoral Insights: Expert Views

Day 2 - Navigating the Unknown: Trends that Can Shape the World in 2025

  • Managing Transitions and Uncertainties: Insights from National Security Experts
  • Emerging Threats Over the Horizon for 2025
  • Strategic Competition in the Pacific
  • The Contemporary Role of the Military Attaché during Uncertain Times

Day 3 - Inter-American Relations during Uncertain Times

  • Regional Conflicts, Global Tensions, and Local Impacts
  • Navigating the Landscape of Geoeconomics
  • Bridging the Divide: US-Latin American Relations Perceived from Different DC Angles
  • The Future of Hemispheric Relations: Beyond the Ballot, Conversations with Leaders

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