Aspen Institute Berlin

The Aspen Institute Berlin is an independent nonprofit, nonpartisan institution dedicated to the promotion of transatlantic dialogue. Seeking to act as a bridge between America and Europe, it convenes programs — in Berlin and throughout Europe, the United States, and the Middle East — on foreign policy, defense, and trade issues. Its programs and conferences reach out to key decision and opinion makers as well as the broader public, creating a marketplace of ideas.

Aspen Berlin's work consists of lectures, roundtables, and debates. Its lectures — larger, formal events that are open to the public and press — usually draw 150 to 200 participants. The roundtables are smaller, invitation-only gatherings for about 20 select participants. The debates, which are lively and informal public sessions held in cafés throughout Berlin, are designed to foster discussion on issues of transatlantic interest.

Highlights and Updates:
In November 2006, Aspen Berlin held a discussion entitled "One China Policy," with guest speakers from two American universities and the American Enterprise Institute. Aspen Berlin also focused on the European Union's role regarding Taiwan and offered a discussion with Dissent Magazine's Mitchell Cohen on US midterm elections, the Democratic Party, and current debates in US foreign policy.

In December, new Aspen Berlin Chairman Leonhard Fischer spoke about the need for society to take risks in a speech entitled "The Philosophy of Risk." Fischer inspired the individual participants and Aspen Berlin as a whole to continue the mission of diplomacy and dialogue — a mission which continued into 2007, as Russian Ambassador Vladimir V. Kotenev joined the Aspen Berlin Circle of Friends for an interesting, candid, and enlightening discussion on Russian foreign policy.

Aspen Berlin's summer plans include a young professional conference discussing transatlantic values and Middle East issues.