GLOBAL CONVERSATIONS
Several years after the Arab Spring began, democracy remains elusive in the Middle East. The Arab Spring that resides in the popular imagination is one in which a wave of mass mobilization swept the broader Middle East, toppled dictators, and cleared the way for democracy. The reality is that few Arab countries have experienced anything of the sort. Dr. Tarek Masoud, Sultan of Oman Associate Professor of International Relations at Harvard University, explored why regime change took place in only four Arab countries and why democratic change has proved so elusive in the countries that made attempts.
Amb. Marc Grossman examines what the intertwined future of Afghanistan and Pakistan looks like after American withdrawal from Afghanistan, and shares his experiences from his time as the U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan (2011-2012). Amb. Grossman is former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs (2001-2005), and former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey (1994-1997).
President Obama recently announced the most sweeping change in U.S. policy toward Cuba since the 1961 embargo was imposed. Ted Piccone discusses the events that led to this historic change in U.S.-Cuban relations and the changes that have been taking place in Cuba over the recent years. Mr. Piccone is a senior fellow with the Project on International Order and Strategy and Latin America Initiative in the Foreign Policy Program at the Brookings Institution.
A Podcast from the Cleveland Council on World Affairs
Hear firsthand accounts and perspectives on current global issues and examine international news stories behind the headlines. Experts, government officials, representatives of the media, and diplomats explore relevant and timely geopolitical topics ranging from foreign policy to world economics and current global issues. Join the global conversation!
SUBSCRIBE
Contribute to Global Connections
SUPPORT THE CLEVELAND COUNCIL ON WORLD AFFAIRS
For a century, the CCWA has brought diverse perspectives on issues of international import to Cleveland. Much of our programming is made possible by the the support of our members and the generosity of our donors. Will you help us continue to create global connections?