What does the future hold for the US and UK’s ‘Special Relationship’? Examining the transatlantic partnership in the year of elections: roundtable followed by drinks reception

The ‘special relationship’ between the United States and United Kingdom has often been lauded by successive Presidents and Prime Ministers, keen to underscore a closely fostered partnership. The two countries have shared significant ties, militarily, economically and culturally, and have often acted in lock-step on the international stage. 

Yet in recent years, the special relationship has been tested by numerous global crises and diverging domestic political landscapes. Upcoming elections on both sides of the Atlantic are likely to inject further uncertainty into the ongoing nature of the partnership. 

Join us for an evening of discussion on the current state of US-UK relations. Our speakers will consider what the elections might mean for future cooperation, particularly in international relations and joint responses to crises around the world (from ongoing conflicts to environmental disasters), as well as for the broader promotion of democracy and values, including media freedom. 

Speakers

Keynote: Sir Peter Westmacott

Panelists: The Rt Hon Liam Byrne, Professor Mick Cox (LSE), Dr Julie Norman (UCL), Rosa Prince (Politico).

Chair: Professor Mark Webber

Background on the Organisers 

The Foreign Policy Centre (FPC) 

The FPC is an independent, non-partisan international affairs think tank based in the UK. FPC’s mission is to inform both the British and global debate, seeking sustainable solutions for the world’s most pressing challenges. The FPC takes a global perspective, informed by the values of democracy, human rights, good governance and conflict resolution. The FPC is also a partner for the Transatlantic Periscope, an interactive platform tracking the bilateral relationships between the US, EU countries and the UK. The UK-US page expected to launch in May 2024. www.fpc.org.uk 

The School of Government at University of Birmingham 

The School of Government is concerned with teaching and research on governance, politics, international development, international relations, and public management. The School is home to POLSIS, among the largest and most vibrant departments of political Science and international studies in the UK. www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government/departments/political-science-international-studies 

British International Studies Association (BISA) 

BISA is a leading voice in International Studies in the UK and abroad. BISA develops and promotes the discipline through our publications, 34 research groups, academic networks and funding opportunities. The BISA annual conference brings together over 1200 worldwide specialists wanting to share their research but also analysis and discuss the most pressing issues of the day. BISA is a non-profit charity. https://conference.bisa.ac.uk/about-conference 

There will be a reception after the roundtable: 8.15-9pm 

Places are limited so early registration is advisable and necessary.

If you have registered for the BISA conference then please still register for this event.