The Role of the United States in the World

The end of the Cold War brought a sense of uncertainty and confusion throughout the global community. The struggle between the East and the West defined the terms of the world debate for a whole generation of people. As that battle drew to an abrupt close at the turn of the century, nations around the globe were forced to find their new place in a rapidly changing and unfamiliar environment. The effects of globalization and technological advancement further complicated the picture.

The United States in particular has yet to come to full terms with its own role in this shifting environment. Asserting the need to lead the global community, America has set out to chart a unilateral course in an effort to foster stability and peace. The Global War on Terror was a first effort in defining the terms of the struggle; however, American policy-makers have begun to realize the difficulty in directing and managing a uni-polar world. Mired in Iraq and Afghanistan, the US once again finds itself struggling to define its function and responsibility in the 21^st century world.     

In an attempt to explore these questions, the Eisenhower Institute is currently engaged in a multi-year policy theme focused on the changing world environment and the role the United States can play in the coming years. In support of this endeavor, the Institute is in the process of conducting a number of policy programs aimed at fostering dialogue, finding consensus, and supporting recommendations. These programs will host roundtable discussions, book events, research conferences, expert panels, and a number of additional events in the hopes of furthering these aims.

The Institute hopes our work will embody and advance President Eisenhower's model of public policy formation, including the rigorous pursuit of facts, respectful dialogue among stakeholders, and a focus on the future.