On Wednesday, September 25th, our Director of Information Operations Research, John Kidder, joined panelists Major General Gregory Knight, Elizabeth Shackelford, and panel Moderator Peter Clavelle at the Vermont Council on World Affairs' (VCWA) annual peace celebration, titled "Peace in Progress: Understanding Today, Shaping Tomorrow."
As a Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI) representative, John contributed valuable insights to the panel discussion on the crucial role of subnational diplomacy, emerging technologies, politics, and policy in fostering global peace and stability. The conversation highlighted the significance of subnational actors, such as state governments, local organizations, and civil society groups, in shaping national politics and advancing peacebuilding efforts.
The event emphasized the importance of leveraging soft power to build bridges and foster understanding between nations. Additionally, the discussion underscored the substantial impact of emerging technologies on peace and conflict resolution. The critical role of policy and politics in shaping peace and foreign policy was also a key theme. The event demonstrated the value of dynamic conversation and collaboration between experts, community members, and professionals.
The event drew a diverse audience, including professors, students, retirees, professionals, former diplomats, and representatives from the U.S. State Department. VCWA's mission to promote people-to-people connections and mutual respect across borders resonates deeply with NUARI's commitment to advancing global security and stability through research and collaboration.
We are proud to have been a part of this important conversation and look forward to continuing our work with organizations like VCWA to build a more peaceful and secure world.