From The President

Welcome to the 2026 Great Decisions Program

As October ends, our nation faces major challenges like a government shutdown and social unrest. Globally, recent ceasefires and changing alliances highlight the need to understand what shapes 2026. The Great Decisions program provides a timely way to examine pressing US foreign policy issues and how global politics affect social and legal norms in a divided world.

2026 Discussion Topics: Navigating a Changing World

This year’s program features a series of thought-provoking chapters, each addressing a critical aspect of U.S. foreign policy the current administration’s foreign policy approach, its underlying strategy, and the potential long-term ramifications on global affairs. Let’s take a closer look at what’s ahead:

  • America & the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy by G. John Ikenberry
    Trump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy.

Transitioning from foreign policy leadership, we next examine the economic front:

  • Trump Tariffs & the Future of the World Economy by Michael Mastanduno
    Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?

As we consider America’s evolving role in the world economy, it’s equally important to examine our complex relationship with China:

  • U.S.-China Relations by Oriana Mastro
    Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options?

These shifting alliances and policies have far-reaching implications, particularly in the realm of global security:

  • Ruptured Alliances & the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation by Gideon Rose
    U.S. alliance skepticism may drive countries like Japan and South Korea to reconsider nuclear options. What are the implications of the Trump administration’s rethinking of the U.S. alliance system for regional and global security? Will this new uncertainty alter the way allies and rivals in various regions make decisions about security and nuclear weapons?

Turning our attention to Europe, we see further strategic uncertainty:

  • Ukraine & the Future of European Security by Thomas Wright
    With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?

In a world of shifting power dynamics, the role of international cooperation is more important than ever:

  • Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order by Scott Bessent (Subject to change)
    Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance.

Expanding our focus to Africa, we consider new opportunities for U.S. engagement:

  • U.S. Engagement of Africa by Jendayi E. Frazer
    Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa?

Finally, we reflect on the future of human rights and international law in a divided world:

  • The Future of Human Rights & International Law by Jose Enrique Alvarez
    As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?

To support your engagement with these topics, each program session will feature a 30-minute Master Class video, designed to enhance our understanding and provide valuable insights for meaningful discussion.

Participating in Great Decisions 2026

The 2026 Great Decisions program invites everyone—newcomers and returning participants alike—to personally engage with these critical issues, fostering a deeper understanding of how the current administration is working to address global challenges.

How to Join the Conversation

Ready to get involved? Here’s how you can participate:

  • Consider rejoining your 2025 discussion group or find one that best fits your interests or schedule  by visiting www.tgda.org/tgdadiscuss.
  • Let your moderator know if you will need a book or order your 2026 briefing book directly from www.tgda.org/materials. For online orders, the purchase price is the same as for books ordered through your group moderator, but there is a shipping charge.
  • For assistance, contact a group moderator listed at https://www.tgda.org/tgdadiscuss/ or email dick@tgda.org, or consider starting a new group with friends, a senior center, or your local network.
  • If you plan on starting a new group, contact TGDA for assistance at tom@TGDA.org. Tucson Great Decisions offers support with group formation, moderator training, and special accommodation.

Please inform your group moderator of your plans for the upcoming season so we can order the correct number of books and secure discounts. Since unused books are non-returnable, a prompt response helps us manage costs efficiently.

Kicking 2026 Off: A TGDA Live Event

To kick off our season of thoughtful dialogue, we’re excited to announce that the 2026 session of Great Decisions will begin with our Annual Meeting on January 23, 2026. This special event will feature Robert Grosse, Professor of International Business and Director for Latin America at the Thunderbird School of Global Management, Arizona State University.

Professor Grosse brings a wealth of experience from his work in Latin America, as well as his academic and consulting roles in Mexico, South Africa, and the Middle East. His insights will provide valuable context for our discussions on global affairs and U.S. foreign policy in the coming year.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from an expert and connect with fellow participants as we launch another season of informed dialogue. For details on how to attend, please visit TGDA’s website or contact your group moderator.

Join the Tucson Great Decisions Board

Beyond our regular discussions and events, there are additional ways to get involved and help shape the future of TGDA. The Tucson Great Decisions Association proudly supports over 20 local groups—including library, OLLI, and residential communities—making it the largest metro network of its kind in the United States. The Board is committed to maintaining and expanding these groups, and we invite all participants, moderators, and newcomers to consider joining our Board. To learn more about serving in this capacity, please email dick@tgda.org.

Donate to TGDA

Your support is crucial to our 501(c)(3) nonprofit mission. To donate, visit: https://www.tgda.org/donate-to-tgda/.

Thank you for your interest and support. We look forward to seeing you in the coming season!

Dick Kelbaugh
President, Tucson Great Decisions Association