Great Decisions is a program of the non-partisan Foreign Policy Association in which local groups gather monthly to discuss topics associated with foreign policy of the United States.

Topic for September is The Rise of Populism in Europe by James Kirchick

Mass migration, and the problems associated with it, have directly abetted the rise of populist parties in Europe. Opposition to immigration was the prime driver of support for Brexit, it brought a far-right party to the German Bundestag for the first time since the 1950s, and propelled Marine Le Pen to win a third of the vote in the French presidential election. In addition to calling for stronger borders, however, these parties are invariably illiberal, anti-American, anti-NATO and pro-Kremlin, making their rise a matter of serious concern for the national security interests of the United States.

The Foreign Policy Institute briefing book provides an article and thought provoking questions for the topic of the month. A copy of the briefing book is available for use in the library (not to check out); ask at the Information Desk.

For more information, contact potomacfol@gmail.com with “Great Decisions” in the subject line.

No registration required.

Sponsored by Friends of the Library, Potomac Chapter.