Great Decisions
Great Decisions is a nationwide, non-partisan program sponsored by the Foreign Policy Association intended to broaden public involvement in foreign affairs. It was launched over 50 years ago, and today tens of thousands of participants take part in discussion groups each year. Our library is proud to be hosting our eighth year of participation in the Great Decisions Program.
Eight topics have been selected this year for discussion. The Foreign Policy Association provides a Great Decisions Briefing Book if participants choose to read articles in advance, and each program begins with a video presentation outlining the issues of the evening’s topic. After the short video, a facilitator provides insight and leads a discussion.
This free, in-person program will take place in the Lake Travis Community Library meeting room in Lakeway. No registration is required.
2026 Topics
America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
Thursday, January 29th at 7pm
Facilitated by Michael Mosser, Ph.D.
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
Thursday, February 12th at 7pm
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
Thursday, February 26th at 7pm
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
Thursday, March 12th at 7pm
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
Thursday, March 26th at 7pm
Facilitated by Michael Mosser, Ph.D.
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
Thursday, April 9th at 7pm
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
Thursday, April 23rd at 7pm
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
Thursday, May 7th at 7pm
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?