Great Decisions 2026

ABOUT THE GREAT DECISIONS DISCUSSION PROGRAM

Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book, watching the video series and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. 

The first "Great Decisions" group was launched in Portland, Oregon in 1954 by FPA's Vice President Roger Mastrude. Based on the so-called "Avon" model of face-to-face, active and informal conversation, participants would read a fact sheet on each of the eight topics before meetings, where they aired their respective views and opinions. FPA would tally up opinion ballots and report the results to the Department of State. The program gained media attention, was picked up by local schools, and soon gained national attention. 

The grassroots, face-to-face model adopted by Great Decisions more than 60 years ago continues today, with tens of thousands of participants taking part in discussions nationwide annually.

SOURCE: https://www.fpa.org/great_decisions/?act=gd_about2


GREAT DECISIONS AT THE BOYNTON BEACH CITY LIBRARY

February 2026 - March 2026

Every Tuesday, starting February 3, from 10:30 a.m. until 12 noon

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2026 Great Decision Topics


America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy

Trump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy.

By G. John Ikenberry

Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy

Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?

By Michael Mastanduno

U.S.-China Relations

Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options?

By Oriana Mastro

Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation

U.S. alliance skepticism may drive countries like Japan and South Korea to reconsider nuclear options. What are the implications of the Trump administration’s rethinking of the U.S. alliance system for regional and global security? Will this new uncertainty alter the way allies and rivals in various regions make decisions about security and nuclear weapons?

By Gideon Rose

Ukraine and the Future of European Security

With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?

By Thomas Wright

Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order

Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance.

By Scott Bessent (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

U.S. Engagement of Africa

Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa?

By Jendayi E. Frazer

The Future of Human Rights and International Law

As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?