Great Decisions
A world of ideas. A place in the conversation.
Make sense of the global issues shaping our lives—and bring your perspective to the discussion. Join VCWA for Great Decisions 2027: eight live, virtual conversations with guest experts and fellow curious minds.
Go beyond the headlines on U.S.–China relations, artificial intelligence, energy security, and more. Read, ask questions, and exchange ideas from wherever you are.
Eight sessions • February 4–April 22, 2027 • Live on Zoom
Meet two to three times a month with a small discussion cohort, limited to 25 participants.
Registration opens October 22, 2026. Save an additional 10% when you register by December 3, 2026. Registration closes January 31, 2027.
Eight conversations. One registration.
All eight virtual sessions and your 2027 briefing book are included. VCWA members enjoy special rates, with an additional 10% off paid registration during early-bird registration. Great Decisions is complimentary for Executive members.
| Registration | Regular | Early bird Closes December 3, 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Nonmember | $180 | $162 |
| Individual member | $150 | $135 |
| Premier member | $125 | $112.50 |
| Municipal member | $100 | $90 |
| Executive member | Complimentary | Complimentary |
| Corporate member | $125 | $112.50 |
Early bird: October 22–December 3, 2026. Registration closes January 31, 2027. The early-bird column includes the additional 10% discount. Membership dues and any applicable Eventbrite fees are separate.
Keep the conversation going all year
Explore VCWA membership for program savings and opportunities to connect throughout the year.
Membership dues: Individual $50 · Premier $125 · Municipal $250 · Executive $500 or more.
Corporate memberships: $1,000–$10,000 per organization.
View registration on Eventbrite · Membership or registration questions? Email Samantha Hillier.
Great Decisions
Great Decisions brings people together to explore the foreign policy questions that shape our world. VCWA’s series combines the Foreign Policy Association’s annual briefing book with live discussion, expert insight, and a community of engaged participants.
You do not need to be a foreign policy specialist to bring a valuable perspective. Come with curiosity and a willingness to listen, ask questions, and exchange ideas.
2027 Great Decisions
Session Dates & Topics
American Foreign Policy and the Future of Multilateralism
February 4, 2027
What role should the United States play in global cooperation? Explore the institutions, partnerships, and choices shaping America’s place in the world.
American Options in the Middle East
February 11, 2027
Examine America’s strategic choices in the Middle East, from regional partnerships and security challenges to the possibilities for diplomacy.
The Future of Germany in Europe and the Atlantic World
February 25, 2027
Explore Germany’s changing leadership role in Europe and what its relationship with the United States means for the transatlantic partnership.
U.S.–China: The Case for Engagement
March 4, 2027
Can competition and cooperation coexist? Discuss the choices that could build a more stable U.S.–China relationship and reduce the risk of conflict.
Brazil and the Global South: Confronting a New America
March 18, 2027
Consider how Brazil and the wider Global South are navigating a changing United States, and what comes next for their international partnerships.
AI and American Choices
April 1, 2027
Explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping economic opportunity, national security, and global power—and the choices facing U.S. policymakers.
Energy Security: Challenges for American Foreign Policy
April 8, 2027
Examine the connections between energy, security, and foreign policy, and how America can respond to an evolving global energy landscape.
Organized Crime in the Americas
April 22, 2027
Look beyond borders to understand transnational criminal networks and the opportunities for regional cooperation to address them.
“I am a big fan of the World Affairs Council. It's great to see citizens sharing ideas about the world and staying informed"
- 2022 Great Decisions Guest Expert
FAQs
-
Great Decisions 2027 is an eight-session virtual discussion series from the Vermont Council on World Affairs. Explore major foreign policy questions with fellow participants and guest experts, using the Foreign Policy Association’s 2027 briefing book to help frame the conversation.
-
Each session brings a local, national, or international guest expert into the conversation. Come ready to hear new perspectives, ask questions, and discuss the issues with your cohort. The 2027 speaker lineup will be announced separately.
-
The 2027 program is fully virtual on Zoom. Join all eight sessions from wherever you are. Session dates are February 4, 11, and 25; March 4 and 18; and April 1, 8, and 22, 2027.
-
Your registration includes the full Great Decisions 2027 experience:
• Eight live, virtual discussions exploring the global issues shaping our world.
• Your own 2027 Foreign Policy Association Great Decisions briefing book, with background and analysis to deepen your understanding and enrich each conversation.
• Access to guest experts, with opportunities to ask questions and hear perspectives beyond the headlines.
• A community of curious, engaged participants to exchange ideas, consider different viewpoints, and learn alongside throughout the series.
Join from wherever you are, bring your questions, and take part in thoughtful conversations that make world affairs feel more connected to everyday life.
-
Calendar invitations will be sent before each session. Your Zoom link will arrive at least 24 hours before the session begins. If you need help accessing a session, contact Samantha Hillier at samantha@vcwa.org.
-
Register through the Great Decisions 2027 Eventbrite page using the registration button above. For questions about registration, membership eligibility, or access, contact Samantha Hillier at samantha@vcwa.org.
-
To arrange payment by check and avoid Eventbrite transaction fees, email info@vcwa.org with the subject “Great Decisions Registration.” Include your full name and phone number. Mail your check, payable to the Vermont Council on World Affairs, to 50 Lakeside Avenue, PMB 86, Burlington, VT 05401
Explore the 2026 Great Decisions program