Celebrating Refugee Host Country Leadership: Moldova and Uganda

Thursday, March 6 // 1–2:30 pm (ET)

Countries that host a significant refugee population face a double squeeze. On the one hand, their citizens demand services and the government must deliver those services. On the other hand, most of these countries also have international obligations to protect and provide for refugees. Two US partners, Moldova and Uganda, have demonstrated strong leadership in ensuring self-reliance and protection of refugees.

What innovative ways can the international community share responsibility with host countries that must address the needs of their citizens while empowering refugees to rebuild their livelihoods? On March 6, the Refugee and Forced Displacement Initiative will host a special public event to recognize Moldova and Uganda for their demonstrated leadership in hosting refugees. A panel discussion will focus on what lessons other countries can learn from these two.

STILL TO Come THIS WEEK

Crucibles of Power: Smolensk Under Stalinist and Nazi Rule

Monday, March 3 // 4–5:30 pm (ET)

Prizewinning historian Michael David-Fox traces the experiences of Smolensk residents between the interwar years and the end of World War II, a period during which the city and region passed from Stalinist rule to Nazi occupation and back. The result is a revelatory examination of choice and power under dueling forms of murderous totalitarianism.

Protecting Maritime Security and Stability in the Indo-Pacific: Challenges for the United States and Japan

Wednesday, March 5 // 9–10:00 am (ET)

Protecting the freedom of navigation and overflight across the Indo-Pacific remains a shared security and commercial interest for both the United States and Japan. Yet, Beijing’s continued unlawful gray zone coercion across the South China Sea and the East China Sea threatens the stability of the world’s most populous region. Join us for an online discussion on how the new administrations in Japan and the United States can work together to enhance maritime security and maintain stability across the Indo-Pacific.

Between Two Hills: Canada-US Perspectives in Ottawa and Washington

Wednesday, March 5 // 2–3:30 pm (ET)

In a period marked by broad geopolitical instability and change across North America, cross-border ties remain the linchpin of the historic Canada-US relationship. Between and within both countries’ federal legislatures, dialogue and leadership on shared priorities like economic security, border management, and continental defense serve to strengthen bilateral relations and benefit Canadians and Americans alike.

Join us virtually for a conversation with members of the Canada-US Interparliamentary Group. The event will consist of a panel discussion featuring the IPG's co-chairs and a moderated roundtable with members of a visiting Canadian IPG delegation.

The Haleh Esfandiari Forum 2025: Hela Cheikhrouhou

Thursday, March 6 // 10–11:00 am (ET)

The Middle East Program (MEP) is pleased to host Hela Cheikhrouhou, the Regional Vice President for Middle East, Central Asia, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Pakistan at the International Finance Corporation, for the 2025 Annual Haleh Esfandiari Forum. Moderated by MEP Director Merissa Khurma, this conversation will center on Ms. Cheikhouhou’s experience in fragile state settings and her commitment to gender equality. As the Middle East & North Africa is experiencing a moment of profound change, Ms. Cheikhrouhou will reflect on the conditions on the ground in the region, what resilient societies with women at their centers look like, and the role of the private sector in rebuilding.