Engaging the New Generation of Transatlanticists
With many historical ties fading and long-standing transatlantic connections weakening, supporters of strong transatlantic relations must find new, creative ways to connect with the next generation of Americans and include underrepresented groups in the effort to highlight the significance of Europe as an American partner. The joint project “Engaging the New Generation of Transatlanticists,” co-organized by the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) and the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), aims to achieve this through a variety of initiatives and activities such as:Projects
Expand AllOnline Educational Content
GMF is creating a suite of online educational tools for individuals taking part in transatlantic leadership development programs and those interested in doing so. The multimedia educational content will introduce young American leaders to European Union institutions, values, culture, and international impact, especially the EU’s role in different regions by supporting and strengthening grass-roots activities, civil society work, and other efforts to support disadvantaged groups and minorities.
Mini-Grants For Grass-Roots Initiatives of Diverse Communities
The project seeks to strengthen partnerships with diverse communities by issuing five to ten mini-grants as start-up capital for initiatives spearheaded by GMF leadership program leaders and alumni to strengthen democratic participation through local activities that highlight the importance of transatlantic cooperation.
Town Hall Discussions on Europe at HBCUs
GMF aims to organize three town hall events at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to discuss the European Union and the state of transatlantic relations. European expert speakers will be invited to travel to the universities for the discussions.
Blog Post Contest
In August 2021, students from nine universities were invited to submit blog posts on five broad themes in transatlantic relations: threats to democracy, technological change, security and defense, climate change, and the future of transatlantic relations. The blog posts were featured on CNAS’s Medium page: The Transatlanticist: The Next Generation of Ideas.
Video Contest & Study Tour
GMF and CNAS have launched a video contest, asking university students at U.S. institutions to present their ideas for U.S.-EU cooperation and their vision for the future of transatlantic relations. Students are invited to send a three-minute (or shorter) video and 250-word written summary outlining a new and unique approach to key issues facing the transatlantic partners. The five competition winners will be invited to join a funded study tour to Europe in July 2022 to meet with officials, experts, and key stakeholders in Brussels and other European capitals.
Transatlantic Political-Military Game
CNAS organized a political-military game workshop and Russia crisis simulation. Twenty-five students and young professionals from diverse backgrounds met virtually for a workshop on wargaming basics and a Russia crisis simulation examining how the European Union and NATO can work together in a crisis. Through this exercise, participants were able to gain greater insight into the long-standing diplomatic and defense relationships between the United States and Europe as well as the inner workings of NATO and EU.
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This project is funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of The German Marshall Fund and the Center for a New American Security and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union. |