Reflections from the International Studies Association Conference, 2014

Having recently returned from the International Studies Association (ISA) conference in Toronto, I wanted to share some thoughts with the PD community, and particularly the scholars who for some reason or other couldn’t attend. For those who aren’t familiar, ISA is the major annual conference where PD scholars convene, particularly through the International Communication (ICOMM) and Diplomatic Studies divisions. ISA has around 5,000 participants, of which the regular faces working on PD comprise of less than one percent. Read More

Ukraine on the American River

The Crimean crisis hits close to home – very close for many in Sacramento, home to one of the largest Ukrainian diaspora communities in the United States. While targeted sanctions against Russia are about to kick in and the tense situation throughout Ukraine remains unpredictable, American policies going forward are likely to be influenced by Ukrainian nationals over time, even after the story fades from current news cycles. Read More

Watch: FLOTUS on Giant Panda Cub Naming

In this video, First Lady Michelle Obama congratulates the naming of the Smithsonian's National Zoo's giant panda cub, born August 23,2013. Panda diplomacy was jump started by First Lady Pat Nixon and has strengthened the friendship between both nations. Mrs. Obama states, "This cub both exemplifies the common bond between our nations and the bright future of this magnificent species."

Wake Up NATO, You’re No Deterrent to Russia

NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen told a Washington audience on Wednesday that Russia’s absorption of Crimea is a “wake-up call” for his organization. The alarm had best ring loudly, because NATO has been sleeping deeply.     Read More

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