Making Sense of Syria: ISIS, Russia, and What Comes Next

Global Engagement and Leadership Luncheon on the occasion of the 84th Annual Meeting
John T. Ryan Memorial Lecture

Dr. Colin P. Clarke, Associate Political Scientist, RAND Corporation

As Syria continues to be shattered by its civil war, the U.S. and Russia are at odds about the best strategy to stabilize this nation. Neighboring states are sharing the brunt of the ongoing crisis and there is the need to reach negotiations quickly.

Much is at stake in Syria. The growing number of refugees fleeing the country continues to increase daily. The Islamic State and other violent extremist organizations add to the complexity of the conflict. These groups have diversified their sources of revenue and successfully adapted to measures designed to counter them, using social media to elevate and distribute violent propaganda.

What are Moscow’s short and longer term goals in Syria? Should the U.S. play a more active role in shaping the conflict, or is Washington’s current stance the proper one, given events on the ground? Will a negotiated settlement be reached? What is the range of possible futures in Syria?

Click here to download the event flyer.

Registration
Reservations are required as seating is limited. Please register by November 16, 2015.

World Affairs Council Member: $50
Non-Member: $75
Table of Eight (8): $400

Questions?
Call 412-281-7970 or email welcome@worldpittsburgh.org.