We are so grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with our #ivlp alumni!

Fanny Alam participated in a January 2020 project focused on the theme of "Youth Political Engagement in the Digital Age". He is from Indonesia, and he is currently the Regional Coordinator of Sekolah Damai Indonesia (SEKODI) Bandung (Bandung School of Peace Indonesia). We appreciate Fanny's honesty and willingness to share his personal insights as an IVLP participant. It was great to learn more about why it was important to him to visit the USA, and also to learn more about New Hampshire's human rights work through a multitude of professional meetings with NH counterparts.

In past communications, Fanny has also reflected on his experience volunteering with Families in Transition / New Horizons while in New Hampshire. He, alongside other IVLP participants, volunteered to help serve a meal to individuals in the NH local community who were facing homelessness and food insecurity. This opportunity was an impactful part of his IVLP experience as a whole. 

Fanny is always looking forward to connecting with individuals around the world for professional collaborations! If you'd like to learn more about Fanny and his work, we have included a few links that Fanny has shared with us below.

Learn more about Fanny Alam here

Religiosity and Spirituality of Gender Minority in Indonesia: The Contrast between Legal Rights and Reality

Our Home Together

WACNH Executive Director, Tim Horgan, joined Peter St. James for another discussion on the importance of global understanding and the work of the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire. They had the opportunity to talk about global democracy, U.S. engagement with the world, counterbalancing authoritarian regimes, and the upcoming Global Business Summit. You can listen to the full conversation via THIS LINK, or listen to the full show on the WNTK website (search for the Nov 1st episode).

On September 24th, WACNH Executive Director, Tim Horgan, and IV Program Director, Anise Jasman-Sayers, were interviewed on NH Talk radio about the power of the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire to build international connections and understanding. Thank you to Peter St. James and Jeanne Lester for this wonderful opportunity to share our story. Listen to the interview HERE.

Thank you to Dave Tille for all of your hard work in support of Ukraine. It was wonderful to have Natalya back in the state. In 2021, Natalya participated in the Open World Program and came to New Hampshire to meet with her professional counterparts, share best practices, and build global understanding. Less than a year later her world was turned upside down as Russia invaded and the war continues today. 

The World Affairs Council of New Hampshire is proud to facilitate exchanges that build these lasting connections and ensure New Hampshire understands the challenges facing the world. Our work would not be possible without the strong community support we receive and we thank everyone who helps us work toward a more peaceful and prosperous world.

The World Affairs Council of New Hampshire is committed to providing timely and insightful updates to global affairs. With the tensions between Taiwan and China reaching a fever pitch, we reached out to the respective government officials for each, looking for insights into the ongoing situation.  Both Taiwan and Chinese officials directed us to statements made by their respective governments. What becomes immediately clear is that the governments on either side of the strait view the situation, including the lead up to Chinese military drills around the island, completely differently.

Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China

“…China is clearly trying to deter other countries from interfering in its attempt to invade Taiwan. Its rehearsal of anti-access and area-denial (A2/AD) tactics gives us a clear image of China’s geostrategic ambitions beyond Taiwan.

In other words, China’s real intention behind these military exercises is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the entire region. This has already brought significantly unstable elements into the mix, threatening regional security.”

Hua Chunying, Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China

“China has acted in legitimate self-defense only after the US made this egregious provocation (Speaker Pelosi’s visit). China’s measures are also about staunchly safeguarding regional peace and stability and international law and basic norms in international relations. Already more than 160 countries have made their voice of justice heard. They reiterated their commitment to the one-China policy and expressed support for China’s efforts to firmly uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity…For the Chinese military’s drills in the waters off the Taiwan Island, the Chinese competent authorities have issued safety alerts and navigation warnings in advance. The practices of the Chinese side were consistent with international law and practices.”

Of course, international reaction to this crisis has been as varied in their responses as these two statements. This global issue continues to highlight the differing worldviews of people across the globe. As this geostrategic competition continues to play out, one is left hoping that a miscalculation or accident does not occur that leads inevitably, to death, destruction, and global disruptions that will impact everyone’s lives, either directly or indirectly. Beyond the human toll of a war across the Taiwan Strait, the disruptions to global trade will only continue to pile on to the pressures placed on supply chains, as well as global inflation. As we have seen with the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, a war can begin quickly, but the impacts to the world will be lasting.

For access to the full statements:

Taiwan - https://en.mofa.gov.tw/News_Content.aspx?n=1328&sms=273&s=98292

China - https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/202208/t20220805_10735987.html

MANCHESTER/PORTSMOUTH – On September 13, the people of New Hampshire will go to the polls to decide on the nominees for the general election later this year. As one of the most watched races in the nation, the campaign for the U.S. Senate seat here in the state is heating up. As the Senate plays a large role in directing U.S. Foreign Policy, it is incumbent on voters to understand the foreign policy platforms of all candidates they are considering. Through this lens, the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire is proud to announce a series of candidate events to provide a platform for discussion on how each candidate views the U.S’ role in the world.

Through this series of events, voters in New Hampshire will explore the viewpoints of the candidates around key foreign policy issues. This includes U.S. – China relations, the ongoing war in Ukraine, N.A.T.O. expansion, and more. The opportunity to hear from multiple candidates on these issues and to dive deeply into the conversation will help create a more informed and involved voter. These events will provide the platform for civil and important discussions which create understanding.

“With so many different challenges facing the world today, it is important to make your voice heard through elections,” said Tim Horgan, WACNH executive director. “There are few forums focused solely on the role of the United States in the world and this series is a great opportunity for voters to gain deeper insights into the candidates’ thinking. Creating an informed electorate is one of the most important aspects of our work and vital to a strong and vibrant democracy.”

All of the Senate Primary candidates have been invited to participate in their own presentation on foreign policy. While work continues to confirm as many events as possible, the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire is proud to announce the following candidates:

• -          August 12^th at 5:00 pm – Senator Maggie Hassan
• -          August 18^th at 3:00 pm – Edmond LaPlante
• -          August 19^th at 9:30 am – Vikram Mansharimani
• -          August 19^th at 4:00 pm – Brig. Gen. Don Bolduc

All events will be held at UNH Manchester in the multipurpose room. These events are free and open to the public, with the media invited to cover each candidate’s presentations. Audience questions will be taken after remarks from the candidate to further understanding on candidate positions. This is a wonderful opportunity for respectful, challenging, and insightful conversations. It is incumbent on all voters to understand their choices and know what the United States is doing around the world in their name.

For more information and registration for these events, visit www.wacnh.org/eventcalendar

Every year non-profits around the country welcome new board members to invigorate their work with new ideas, diverse perspectives, and fresh energy. The World Affairs Council of New Hampshire is honored to welcome three powerful community leaders to their Board. These strong directors will provide new insights into its work and help lead the Council as the organization heads to its 70^th anniversary in 2024.

Karen Ballou, CEO of Immunocologie, Anna Berry, Director of Communications and Digital Outreach at the Forest Society, and Chrystina Russell, Executive Director of rewirED, have all been elected to three-year terms on the organization’s Board of Directors. Their combined experiences leading organizations through various levels of development will assist the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire as it continues its ongoing growth.

“My eight decades of life experiences inform me that the best performing organizations are usually composed of a thoughtful combination of older, more experienced members and newer, more creative members,” said Peter Bowman, WACNH Board President. “So, while we will miss those who retire from the Board, we not only applaud their wonderful contributions, but we warmly welcome and cheer on those who are joining, anticipating their successful futures with the organization.”

Anna Berry brings a unique view to the Board, having spent eight years as Executive Director of the Council. After four years away, she will bring fresh perspective to what the organization does. Her background in communications and outreach will strongly benefit WACNH’s community presence.

“I’m honored to join the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire’s Board of Directors and support the organization’s critical work to bring the world to New Hampshire and New Hampshire to the world,” said Berry. “From sharing a meal with international visitors to discussing foreign policy with expert speakers, I’ve always enjoyed the Council’s diverse programs and I look forward to helping advance its mission in order to reach even more Granite Staters over the next few years.”

Chrystina Russell has spent her career working to provide education within a global context. From working in public schools to creating an international educational movement providing university degrees to people in refugee camps, she has been an ardent supporter of global education, which fits well with the mission of WACNH.

“The work of the Council is important to me because of the high impact programming and activities that meaningfully connect the world to NH, the organization's commitment to strengthened sustainability, and WACNH's focus on civic leadership for issues on world affairs,” said Russell. “I am honored to join the board and am doing so because of my alignment and excitement about these important initiatives. I look forward to teaming with WACNH in support of their efforts to build an informed global community."

Karen Ballou has long focused on sustainable sourcing of products in her work, creating global relationships that benefit both her companies and the communities she works in. She brings a unique set of skills that will help enhance the public profile of the Council, brining its programs to new audiences.

The World Affairs Council of New Hampshire is honored to welcome these amazing leaders to its Board of Directors. As the organization finishes its strategic planning process and looks forward to the global future, their insights will benefit the Council greatly.

Each year the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire bestows the Global Leadership award to a New Hampshire person, business, or organization who has shown leadership in promoting international knowledge and understanding by expanding New Hampshire’s global connections. Past recipients of the award include Howard Brodsky, Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Kelly Ayotte, Dr. Paul LeBlanc, and other prominent community members. This year, WACNH is honored to name David Tille, Director of Veteran Services at Harbor Care, as the ninth recipient of this prestigious award.

David has long spent time creating and expanding global relationships, both as a part of his personal and professional life. From his time in the U.S. Army (certified as a Russian Language specialist), to his degree with a focus in International Administration, Economics, and Political Science, and his time leading Young Rescuers USA (an international first responders’ program for youth), he has created a great legacy of global connections over the years.

“We could not be happier to add Dave to our list of amazing recipients of this award,” said Tim Horgan, WACNH executive director. “I have worked closely with Dave on several internationally focused projects, and he has shown strong support for the work of the Council for many years. Most of all, he has been a wonderful host to many of our exchange visitors who have come to NH, including three members of Ukraine’s Parliament who visited last year.”

David has long been a supporter of global engagement and understanding, which will culminate with his efforts to bring Lech Walesa, former President of Poland, to New Hampshire to help raise funds for Ukraine relief. In addition to several wonderful opportunities for the people of New Hampshire to meet with this pivotal global leader, David has helped lead a fundraising drive that has raised close to $1 million in cash and supplies for Ukraine. It is efforts like this that shine a light on David’s global leadership. By activating various supporters, David has shown the difference a community can make.

“I am both humbled and honored to receive this recognition from the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire.  We can all make a difference in making the world a better place,” said Tille. “The Council understands the global impact of the challenges facing the people of Ukraine. Manifestly, this relief effort has involved the time, energy, and generosity of many people, and I share this honor with them.”

The World Affairs Council of New Hampshire will present this award to David Tille on May 17 at their annual Global Forum Signature Fundraiser, aptly focused on the future of N.A.T.O. Held at the DoubleTree in downtown Manchester, the event will feature former N.A.T.O. Ambassador Douglas Lute and former State Department Deputy Secretary for International Security, Victoria Holt.

More information and registration for this event can be found at bit.ly/NATO-Future

Summer Diplomatic Academy

IN PERSON & ONLINE | July 5-29, 2022

The Washington International Diplomatic Academy's summer course is a unique practical professional training program that introduces undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates, to careers in international diplomacy by allowing them to learn from and work with career ambassadors with decades of experience.

The program covers the fundamentals of diplomatic practice and focuses on real-world aspects of work in embassies, consulates, government agencies, international organizations and global NGOs. The instructors are professional diplomats who have served in dozens of countries around the world. They teach the skills they learned by practicing diplomacy and managing international relations, with simulation exercises and case studies derived from their own careers. They offer insight into policy-making and implementation, diplomatic protocol, the functions and management of embassies and consulates, diplomatic reporting and writing, negotiation and mediation, political and economic tradecraft, public diplomacy, cross-cultural communication and other competencies.

Students can apply for $1,000 partial scholarships toward the tuition fee. Please click here for more details. The application deadline is April 30, 2022.

Over the past two years, many global connections have suffered due to shutdowns, restrictions, and other safety measures implemented to slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes traditionally strong relationships, such as seen between New Hampshire and Canada who have a long history of economic, cultural, and familial connections. As the world begins to move from pandemic to endemic, it is a good time to work on revitalizing these relationships which will help communities grow and thrive.

On April 5^th at 6:00 pm, the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire will host an in-person and online conversation with the Canadian Consul General to Boston on the U.S.-Canada Partnership and what it means for the state. Tourism, exports, cross-border communities, and other regional connections drive the economy, which is poised to grow as restrictions are lifted.

“For centuries, the cultures, economies, and lives of people living in New Hampshire and eastern Canada have intermingled to the benefit of all,” said Tim Horgan, WACNH executive director. “As we move out of the pandemic, the critical work of revitalizing these connections begins now. The opportunity to hear from the Consul General is a first step towards aligning the needs of the region and getting on the same path toward economic growth.”

According to the most recent data, Canada is the second largest trade market for New Hampshire businesses, with over $13 million in cross border activity. This does not include the major impact that tourism plays for both economies, as thousands of visitors cross the border each year. While many people had to adjust to the new realities of the pandemic, normal trips and economic relations will push the region forward once again.

Remarks from Consul General Cuzner will focus on the recent truckers' protest in Ottawa, the current state of Canadian politics, energy, trade, tourism and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the Consul General's remarks, there will be a moderated Question and Answer session. This program will help business leaders identify opportunities for growth and every day citizens to learn more about where the future of this relationship lies. Opportunities for both in-person and online attendance are available.

More information and registration for this event is at wacnh.org/event-4742405.