Global Minnesota's Great Decisions program features grassroots discussion groups where people from all over the state get together in their communities to talk about the big foreign policy issues of our time. Groups are made up of all different backgrounds including community organizations, church groups, universities, and even groups of friends who want to learn more about complex international issues.

On today’s episode, hear from a Great Decisions expert speaker, Christi Siver, and a local Great Decisions group leader Renee Brown-Goodell. They have joined to talk about their roles in the Great Decisions program, the process for joining or starting a group, and how these groups foster international learning across the state.

As a major player in global affairs, Germany has a critical role in steering the transatlantic relationship. Earlier this summer, Global Minnesota partnered on an event with the Germanic-American Institute and the Bertelsmann Foundation to discuss the U.S.-German relationship. The event featured remarks from Irene Braam, Executive Director of the Bertelsmann Foundation, and Rainer Breul, who serves as the Head of Political Affairs at the German Embassy in Washington, D.C.

On this episode, hear from by Rainer Breul, who started in his position at the Germany Embassy back in July 2023. He shared more about his background, the connections between Germany and Minnesota, and the essential importance of the U.S.-German relationship.

Germany Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Department of State Office of Sub-National Diplomacy

With nearly 1.5 billion people, Africa has a young, rapidly rising population, coupled with an abundance of natural resources, access to key minerals for the green economy and a growing importance in the geopolitical balance of power. Hear from the Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of African Affairs, Molly Phee, as she discusses U.S. policy toward this vital region.

Assistant Secretary Phee brings a wealth of experience to her understanding of this vast and diverse continent, comprising over 50 countries and numerous cultures, languages and geographies. She outlines the current approach to U.S.-Africa relations and share her experiences building bridges of understanding and economic prosperity with people across Africa. Minnesota’s significant and vibrant African diaspora add to the importance and relevance of understanding this crucial relationship.