PREPARE TO DISCUSS THE WORLD

GREAT DECISIONS:   Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs.  The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book, watching the DVD and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today.  All are welcome.  There is a $35 charge for the Briefing Book and the shared cost of the DVD. Discussions begin at 4:00p.m.  between February and May (the second and fourth Monday of each month)  at the Palos Park Public Library, 12330 Forest Glen Boulevard in Palos Park.

Dates: 2026 tbd

                  

Email Carol at   Walsh7833@comcast.net  if you’re interested in joining us.

Great Decisions 2026- 

Here is a list of the preliminary topics for the upcoming 2025 edition of Great Decisions. The eight topics will each have a corresponding episode of GDTV that will broadcast on PBS and be available on DVD or streaming with Vimeo. For any questions, please contact editorial@fpa.org.

2026 Topics

America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy

Trump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy.

Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy

Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?

U.S.–China Relations

Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on rare earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options?

Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation

U.S. alliance skepticism may drive countries like Japan and South Korea to reconsider nuclear options. What are the implications of the Trump administration’s rethinking of the U.S. alliance system for regional and global security? Will this new uncertainty alter the way allies and rivals in various regions make decisions about security and nuclear weapons?

Ukraine and the Future of European Security

With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?

Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order

Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance. (subject to change)

U.S. Engagement of Africa

Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa?

The Future of Human Rights and International Law

As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?

✨ Stay tuned for more updates on the Briefing Book release and Great Decisions programming.

 

Further discussion material can be found at several Great Decisions Facebook pages or the Great Decisions Website:   http://www.fpa.org/great_decisions/