The catastrophic domestic and global effects of coronavirus begs the question: why was the world so unprepared for this virus? In search of some answers, I recently spoke with Ambassador Roger Meece, former U.S. Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (2004 – 2007) and Malawi (2000 – 2003) and a member of the USGLC’s Washington State Advisory Committee.

What have 2020 candidates been saying about America’s role in the world? Watch this space for updates on foreign policy on the campaign trail.

Here are seven things to know about NATO at 70 which highlight that the alliance is much more than a promise to honor the principle “an attack on one is an attack on all.”

The path forward in Venezuela remains uncertain since National Assembly President Juan Guaidó took the oath of office and declared himself the legitimate interim president of Venezuela. He was quickly recognized by the United States, Canada, and much of Central and Latin America, even as Russia, China, and Turkey warned they would continue to support President Maduro. While the Administration insists that no options are “off the table,” it has so far focused on a strong diplomatic and economic response to defend democratic values and encourage a peaceful transition of power. As the crisis unfolds, here are three critical issues to watch as the hunger and political crisis in Venezuela continues to spiral downward.

Earlier this month, at the USGLC ‘s 2018 Tribute Dinner, we celebrated a group of remarkable individuals who represent the best of our country abroad—America’s diplomats and development professionals. From USAID to the State Department, MCC to the Peace Corps, OPIC to USTDA and beyond, America’s civilian frontline personnel work tirelessly to empower women, bring clean water to new places, improve global health, and strengthen our bonds with allies.

At the Heritage Foundation yesterday, National Security Advisor John Bolton introduced the Administration’s new Africa strategy, which he said reflects the president’s “central campaign promise” to put the interests of the American people first.

As Americans continue to debate the cost and importance of our country’s participation on the world stage, it is more important than ever to understand just what the men and women of the U.S. State Department really do. Thankfully, two new podcast series offer listeners an inside look into how America’s diplomats advance and defend U.S. national interests around the world.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has made reforming the United Nations to more effectively respond to global crises one of his key priorities. Earlier this month, the United Nations adopted Secretary-General Guterres’ proposal to overhaul the UN’s Peace and Stability operations to enhance the ability of the UN to better respond to today’s challenges and conflicts.

Secretary Pompeo recently wrapped up his first month at the State Department with the launch of the 2017 Report on International Religious Freedom — part of his first signature policy initiative at the State Department. In releasing the report, Secretary Pompeo emphasized that “Advancing liberty and religious freedom advances America’s interests,” and that “religious freedom deserves to be a front-burner issue.”

Vice President Mike Pence will represent the United States at the Eighth Summit of the Americas in Peru this weekend. The trip takes place against the backdrop of a host of policy challenges in the region, including economic disputes, concerns about illicit drug flows, and a humanitarian crisis. Here are some key opportunities and challenges that should be top of mind for the Vice President as he touches down in Lima: