Great Decisions Topics 2026
Topic Selections for Great Decisions 2026.
Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
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?
By Michael Mastanduno
U.S.-China Relations
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?
By Oriana Mastro
Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
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?
By Gideon Rose
Ukraine and the Future of European Security
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?
By Thomas Wright
Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance.
By Scott Bessent (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
U.S. Engagement of Africa
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?
By Jendayi E. Frazer
The Future of Human Rights and International Law
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?
By Jose Enrique Alvarez
International Cuisine & Cultural Adventures
CULTURAL ADVENTURES
October 5, 2025
Bowers Museum: World of Terracotta Warriors
Cultural Adventurers visited the Terracotta Warriors exhibit at the Bowers Museum.
L-R: Tobi Balma, Sandy Cajigas, Daphne Ching-Jackson, George Jackson. Harriet McDonald, Charlotte Joseph and Faye Alperin. Not pictured is Mary Riddick.
MAY 9, 2025
BUS TOUR OF THE CITY OF LONG BEACH
We traveled the City of Long Beach guided by our tour leader Gerrie Schipske. She described the history of the early suffragettes and how they paved the way so the women in our city would be the forerunners of all that we have accomplished. Lunch followed at the 2nd and PCH Shopping Center.
November 4, 2024
International Cuisine Interest Group Members enjoyed a festive Peruvian lunch at El Rocoto Restaurant in Cerritos.
From L to R: Barbara Hall, Karen Gustafson, Ginny Baxter, JoAnn Kuroda, Deloris Mayuga, Harriet McDonald, Tobi Balma and Faye Alperin
October 8, 2024
AAUW Long Beach members visited the Chen Gallery in Torrance and saw amazing artifacts from China. The visit was followed by a delicious lunch at the Sea Empress Restaurant.
September 17, 2024
International Cuisine diners gathered at Marino’s Restaurant for an evening of traditional Italian fare.
