Great Decisions 2005

The Great Decisions discussion series, coordinated locally by the League of Women Voters, uses materials developed by the Foreign Policy Association (www.fpa.org), a national nonprofit, nonpartisan organization formed in 1918 to promote understanding of international affairs. Learning materials include a briefing book and a videotape set. Tapes are usually broadcast on the local cable access channel.

Topics for 2005

U.S. Intelligence The report of the 9/11 commission and questions of pre-Iraq war intelligence have placed unprecedented attention on the workings of U.S. intelligence agencies. Are U.S. intelligence agencies out of date with dealing with post-cold-war realities? Are the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission adequate for reforming U.S. intelligence?

Russia Under Vladimir Putin, Russia has been shaping its image as a power in Europe and Asia. Putin, in turn, is reshaping Russia by centralizing authority within the federal government. Are Putin's reforms a step backward for Russian democracy? How will Russia overcome the real challenges of terrorism and a struggling economy?

Outsourcing Jobs Outsourcing has been characterized as a threat to American jobs and companies by some, while others claim it is necessary to stimulate overall economic growth. What effects does outsourcing really have on economies that are sending jobs overseas? How does outsourcing affect economies that are receiving the influx of jobs?

China China is increasingly influential globally, but continues to face obstacles at home. As China's record economic growth continues, the country must still contend with a growing gap between rich and poor, devastating pollution and resource shortages. What strategies can China adopt to sustain its economy while meeting the needs of its people?

Sudan's crisis in Darfur The conflict in Sudan's Darfur region has drawn the world's attention because of the humanitarian crisis it has spawned. What role will the international community take in resolving the Darfur crisis? What role should the U.S. play?

Global Poverty Gap The promise of globalization is that it will benefit poor countries through trade and close the poverty gap. Critics have argued that high debt owed by poor countries to rich countries has widened the gap between these countries. What can be done to narrow the global poverty gap?

Middle East How will the war in Iraq and the creation of a transitional government transform the Middle East? How will a democratic Iraq relate to its neighbors and regional partners? Does the Iraq experiment create the potential for other Middle Eastern governments to adopt democracy?

Global Water Issues Scarcity of water in many regions creates problems and conflict for large numbers of the world's population. What policies should be adopted to ensure water quality? What international actors or governments will make the greatest impact on improving water governance?