The Springfield community has an opportunity to learn about the war in Ukraine at a Sept. 13 program presented by the World Affairs Council of Central Illinois (WACCI). How did political developments in Russia and its foreign policy set the stage for the war in Ukraine? To what extent have Western policies played a role? Dr. Robert Goeckel, professor of political science and international relations at State University of New York at Geneseo, will address these questions and the implications of the war for international politics. Dr. Goeckel is a specialist on European politics. His research focuses on the role of churches and religion in the political systems of Europe, Germany and the former USSR.
WACCI is kicking off its new program year with its first in-person event since hosting Zoom events during the pandemic. The free Sept. 13 program is at 7:30 p.m. at Illini Country Club. Reservations are required for an international dinner at 5:30 p.m.
WACCI educates the community about U.S. foreign policy, global economic and environmental issues and international politics. It recently established a Young Diplomats program in collaboration with local high schools to provide opportunities for students to meet with world leaders.
Additional programs are scheduled: Oct. 26 or 27 TBD – Ambassador Marc Perrin de Brichambaut, judge at the International Criminal Court in the Hague, will discuss international criminal justice today. On Nov. 16, Ambassador Sridhar Khatri of Nepal and former U.S. Ambassador to Nepal Scott DeLisi will discuss redefining Nepal. On Dec. 6, Dr. Amanda Poole of Indiana University of Pennsylvania will talk about refugee education and forced migration in northern Ethiopia. The November and December programs are at Illini Country Club. To become a member, to make dinner reservations or to learn more, go to www.mywacci.org.
