Great Decisions

What is Great Decisions?

Great Decisions is a national program of the Foreign Policy Association (FPA). In North Carolina, Charlotte Global at UNC Charlotte is the local coordinator. Great Decisions is the largest non-partisan citizen education effort of its kind and has provided quality information and tools for over fifty years.

Each year, the Foreign Policy Association publishes a Great Decisions Briefing Book. The book highlights eight of the year’s most significant foreign policy issues. The book provides facts, charts, and nonpartisan analysis of the “great decisions” facing the U.S. public and policy makers. Maps, online services and other resources are available to complement programs. In addition, a DVD series and Teacher’s Guide are available for purchase on the Foreign Policy Association’s website.

What are the FPA topics to be discussed for 2026?

1. Ukraine and the Future of European Security
2. The Future of Human Rights
3. Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
4. U.S. Engagement of Africa
5. Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy

What is the Charlotte Lecture Series?

Charlotte Global at UNC Charlotte coordinates a local community lecture series annually. The Charlotte Great Decisions Lecture Series consists of five weekly sessions and is an opportunity for citizens to meet, discuss and learn about some of the issues facing our world. Each week a local expert from UNC Charlotte provides additional perspective on the topic of interest and answers questions regarding the information presented in the Briefing Book and through the lecture. They may include their own research related to the topic. A registration form is available below.

Date, Time, and Location

All lectures will be held in a hybrid format (virtual or in person) from January 28- March 4th, 6:30 pm – 8 pm in classroom 1104 on the 11th floor at the UNC Charlotte Dubois Center in Uptown Charlotte, 320 E. 9th Street, Charlotte, 28202. See Parking information below. You may register for in person or hybrid using the registration form below.

Cost Information

Lectures are free. Great Decisions Briefing Books will not be available onsite. If you are interested in purchasing a book, please do so online at the Foreign Policy Association’s website.

refreshments

Indulge in a delightful experience with complimentary tea, coffee, and cookies served during the lectures.

parking

Please utilize the parking facilities at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City. For detailed information about parking, please visit The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City Parking. See “Event Parking.”

Nearby Restaurants:

• Make the most of your evening by exploring nearby restaurants such as the following: the Market at 7th street, 1st Ward Social or Spice.

Public Transportation:

• Consider using the Blue Line light rail for a convenient and eco-friendly transportation option that drops you off at 9th street station, one-half block away from The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City. 

Registration

Please submit the registration form for Great Decisions 2026. Please note that our registration closes at noon the day of the lecture.

***Recording information: Please note that we are no longer able to offer a recording after the lecture has finished.

Evaluation and Feedback

The online evaluation form for the 2026 lecture series will be available shortly.

For further questions or information, please send an email to GlobalEducation@charlotte.edu.

co-Sponsors

The Great Decisions lecture series, offered by Charlotte Global at UNC Charlotte, is co-sponsored by the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, Charlotte Sister Cities, and the Young Professionals of the World Affairs Council of Charlotte.