Join Irish Network DC for an evening of conversation as two of Washington’s foremost foreign policy thinkers explore how small and neutral nations – Ireland among them – are navigating a fractured geopolitical landscape. From the war in Ukraine to shifting transatlantic alliances, Dr. Hill and Dr. Wright will examine the unique leverage, vulnerabilities, and strategic choices facing counties that have historically charted relatively independent courses in world affairs.

Dr. Fiona Hill – Senior Fellow, Foreign Policy, The Brookings Institution:  Dr.  Hill is a renowned academic, foreign affairs advisor and author, and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. She served as deputy assistant to the president and senior director for European and Russian affairs on the U.S. National Security Council from 2017 to 2019, as well as national intelligence officer for Russia and Eurasia at the U.S. National Intelligence Council from 2006 to 2009. Since 2023, she has also served as Chancellor of Durham University. Her memoir, “There Is Nothing for You Here: Finding Opportunity in the 21st Century” is a best seller. 

Dr. Tom Wright – Senior Fellow, Center on the United States & Europe, The Brookings Institution: Dr. Wright is a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, having most recently served as special assistant to the president and senior director for strategic planning at the National Security Council in the Biden administration. 

A lively Q&A and networking reception will follow the discussion.

We welcome the Washington Ireland Program Class of 2026, and their host families, who will join us at the event.

When: Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 6:30pm

Where: Keough School of Global Affairs, Notre Dame DC, 1400 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20036 

Register here.  Event is free to members and non-members may purchase a ticket for $15.