The Nebraska Ambassadors Forum extends its gratitude to the American Academy of Diplomacy for assisting in facilitating this forum.
On October 25 and 26, three former United States Ambassadors were welcoming to Lincoln and Omaha for the Fall 2021 Nebraska Ambassadors Forum. The three Ambassadors were Wanda L. Nesbitt, W. Stuart Symington IV, and Tibor P. Nagy Jr. Each forum was moderated by Sher Jan Ahmadzi, Director of UNO’s Center for Afghanistan Studies. The October 25 forum took place at the University of Nebraska at Omaha followed by a student discussion with the Ambassadors. On October 26, the Ambassadors traveled to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. Between the forums, over 150 individuals were in attendance.
This years theme was, Africa’s Role in the Contemporary World.
Ambassador Wanda Nesbitt spoke on the topic of Economics and the Chinese Paradox:
Thanks to technology, Africa’s youth have the same expectations as young people on other continents. Their opportunity for jobs will be one of the key factors for whether African states move more toward improved livelihoods or toward a darker future. Development assistance has been unable to lead to development. Meanwhile, Africa’s investment climate remains problematic. How might one sort out the challenges of assistance, grants vs. loans, tough reform conditions and humanitarian aid? Where does China fit in the mix with its controversial investments and loans?
Ambassador Tibor Nagy spoke on the topic of Environment and Climate:
Environmental challenges are rising throughout the continent, impacting agriculture and seacoasts, as well as triggering conflicts. Many necessary policy responses lie outside African nations. But is Africa only a victim, or are there policies African states themselves could use to meet the challenge?
Ambassador Stuart Symington spoke on the topic of Conflicts and Stability:
Improving the economic environment and governance is impossible without peace and security. Yet it is often lack of opportunities and poor governance which nurture conflicts. While Africa’s overall stability has improved over the last several decades, a number of problematic conflicts remain unresolved and extremist violence is rapidly increasing in several regions.
Michael Jung, President and CEO of Burlington Capital International, shared his enthusiasm for the event:
“We are excited to be able to continue to have the Ambassador Forum available to the students and community in Nebraska. It is important for us all to have access to these distinguished diplomats to learn and hear first-hand their perspective and insight on a number of global matters that are pertinent to the US and Nebraska.”
