Government officials, policymakers, humanitarians, journalists and corporate industry leaders convened in Arizona for the McCain Institute’s ninth annual Sedona Forum
WASHINGTON, D.C. –The McCain Institute at Arizona State University (ASU) hosted the 2022 Sedona Forum virtually and in person April 28 – 30 in Arizona. Global leaders gathered to discuss the theme “Strategic Competition” and The Washington Post served as a media partner. The Sedona Forum 2022 panels and see the top 10 highlights from this year’s event below.
1. The McCain Institute’s Courage & Leadership Awards were presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (accepted on his behalf by Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States Oksana Makarova), Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko, and Russian journalist Vladimir Kara-Murza (accepted on his behalf by his wife Yevgeniya Kara-Murza).
2. Following the awards presentation, an emotional video showed how prescient and correct Sen. John McCain was about Vladimir Putin’s nefarious intentions towards Ukraine. The video features appearances from former Sens. Kelly Ayotte, Joe Lieberman and more.
3. FBI Director Christopher Wray spoke with Col. Chris Costa, executive director of the International Spy Museum, about threats facing U.S. national security.
4. General Richard Clarke, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command spoke with Richard Fontaine, CEO of the Center for a New American Security about Ukraine, Taiwan, Afghanistan and more.
5. McCain Institute Board of Trustees Member Amb. Josette Sheeran moderated a panel on food insecurity with Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture Cindy McCain and World Central Kitchen CEO Nate Mook.
6. Former President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko spoke to the audience and was introduced by Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.).
7. The McCain Institute’s John S. McCain Distinguished Fellow and Former U.S. Defense Secretary Dr. Mark Esper spoke with former Canadian Minister of Defence Peter MacKay about the state of the world.
8. McCain Institute Human Trafficking Advisory Council Member and CEO of Polaris Catherine Chen introduced a conversation between CEO of the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery Sophie Otiende and U.S. Trade Representative Amb. Katherine Tai.
9. The Washington Post National Security Reporter Shane Harris moderated a panel discussion on technological innovation in national security with Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).
10. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), European MP Dr. Mohammed Chahim and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) participated in a bipartisan and transatlantic discussion on carbon border adjustments.
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
Inspired by Senator John S. McCain and his family’s legacy of public service, the McCain Institute is fighting to secure democracy and alliances, defend human rights, protect the vulnerable and advance character-driven leadership, both at home and around the world.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.
About The Sedona Forum
The Sedona Forum brings together top government officials, policymakers, humanitarians, journalists and corporate industry leaders from around the world to discuss solutions for today’s most urgent and complex challenges. The Sedona Forum 2022 focused strongly on Russia’s assault on Ukraine, as well as China’s approach to democracy and human rights. Now in its ninth year, the Sedona Forum honors Senator John McCain’s legacy by continuing to champion the ideas and causes he dedicated his life to serving. The Sedona Forum 2022 was held Thursday, April 28 – Saturday, April 30, with the theme “Strategic Competition.” Stay up to date by visiting www.thesedonaforum.org.
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