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2026 Discussion Topics

FPA has announced that John G. Ikenberry will continue as the editor of the GD 2026 source book for a second year.  Professor Ikenberry is the Albert G. Milbank Professor of Politics and International Affairs at Princeton University.   The final list of topics and authors is shown below.

America & the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy by G. John Ikenberry

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 & the Future of the World Economy by Michael Mastanduno

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 by Oriana Mastro

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 & the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation by Gideon Rose

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 & the Future of European Security by Thomas Wright

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 by Scott Bessent

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

U.S. Engagement of Africa by Jendayi E. Frazer

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 & International Law by Jose Enrique Alvarez

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?

This looks like a great slate of timely subjects to discuss for 2026!

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