May 2021
The Foreign Service Journal covers foreign affairs from an insider’s perspective, providing thought-provoking articles on international issues, the practice of diplomacy and the U.S. Foreign Service. Including the AFSA News section, The Journal is published monthly (January-February and July-August issues combined) by the American Foreign Service Association.
The May issue focuses on Arctic diplomacy.
We always welcome short, focused letters about FSJ content; please send them to journal@afsa.org.
COVER STORY
Revitalizing State—Closing the Education Gap
To reclaim leadership in handling international problems, State must increase investment in professional development of its greatest asset: its people.
FOCUS ON ARCTIC DIPLOMACY
Advancing U.S. Diplomacy in the Arctic
Despite challenges posed by Russia and China, the Biden administration has a chance to further constructive, cooperative relations among nations concerned with the Arctic.
A Balanced Approach to the Arctic—A Conversation with U.S. Coordinator for the Arctic Region James P. DeHart
The Arctic is a place of cross-cutting interests—security, science and economic development, among others—and the different pieces need to fit together.
Setting Up Shop in Nuuk
In June 2020 U.S. diplomats reestablished a consulate in Greenland in what is now a fast-growing city that is coming into its own as a center for Arctic issues.
Toward a Sustainable Arctic
Iceland has worked to address priority challenges—economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection—during its chairmanship of the Arctic Council.
Arctic Exceptionalism
Can the Arctic’s unique distinction as a zone of peace be maintained? “The Arctic Senator” explains what it will take.
FEATURE
Raqqa’s Inferno—A Diplomat Reads Dante in Syria
For this FSO, Dante’s imagery in The Inferno seemed to capture the depth of suffering and destruction he saw.
FS HERITAGE
A Victory Against McCarthy—The Bohlen Confirmation
Nominated as U.S. ambassador to Moscow by President Eisenhower, Charles E. Bohlen met resistance head-on from Republican senators during the Red Scare.