Transatlantic Partnerships in a Changing World – Why US-Europe Cooperation Is Critical Now
A Dinner Conversation with Dr. Alexandra de Hoop Scheffer and Dr. Joe McCarthy
Join us for an engaging dinner-conversation as part of Harvard Club of Washington, DC's Passport to Diplomacy Series with Dr. Alexandra de Hoop Scheffer, president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF), with Dr. Joe McCarthy, former Senior Associate Dean and Director of Degree Programs at the Harvard Kennedy School.
As global power dynamics shift and shared challenges intensify, transatlantic partnerships are more critical than ever to maintain security, prosperity, and democratic resilience. In this conversation, Dr. de Hoop Scheffer will explore why close U.S.–Europe cooperation is crucial for safeguarding democratic values, economic stability, and collective security in an increasingly uncertain world, and how institutions like GMF serve as vital bridge-builders—connecting leaders, ideas, and policies across the Atlantic at a pivotal moment.
Dr. Alexandra de Hoop Scheffer is president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF). Previously, as acting president and senior vice president for geostrategy, she led GMF’s geostrategy and geoeconomics policy initiatives across Europe, the United States, and the Indo-Pacific. With over 20 years of experience at the intersection of international relations, policy research, and public engagement, she is a leading authority on geopolitics, transatlantic relations, and global security. Her expertise has guided governments and businesses in shaping defense, diplomacy, and geo-economic strategies on both sides of the Atlantic. Prior to joining GMF, she held key advisory and policy positions in the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, academia, and international organizations. A dual French-Dutch citizen, she holds a PhD in political science and two master’s degrees in political science and conflict studies from Sciences Po Paris. She also studied at King’s College London’s War Studies Department. She is a frequent public speaker and writer on European affairs, transatlantic relations, and international security.
Passport to Diplomacy Series
Passport to Diplomacy Series is designed to offer an in-depth exploration of the world of international relations and diplomatic practice.
This event series will feature visits to embassies and curated discussions with diplomats, protocol experts, and foreign service professionals. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the protocols, policies, and strategic considerations that shape international relations today.
Passport to Diplomacy provides a rare opportunity to engage directly with the institutions and individuals at the forefront of global engagement, in settings that reflect the formality and nuance of diplomatic practice.
Event Information
Cost: $60-$80