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PATHWAYS TO PEACE
Addressing Critical Challenges Facing Western Institutions
June 9, 2026 | Washington, DC
Sponsored by: Culture for Peace Institute
CONFERENCE OVERVIEW
This one-day conference examines paths to sustainable peace and pressing questions facing Western institutions. The morning focuses on frameworks for global cooperation and the role of religious leadership in conflict resolution. The afternoon explores domestic challenges in higher education and immigration policy through evidence-based discussion.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE
June 9, 2026
PATHWAYS TO PEACE
Introduction by Martin Oliner, Founder, Culture for Peace Institute
Keynote Address: TBD
10:15 AM - 12:00 PM | MORNING SESSION: PATHWAYS TO PEACE
• What conditions enable peace agreements to endure beyond the tenure of individual leaders?
• How can economic interdependence support diplomatic progress while addressing popular concerns?
• What role do regional security frameworks play in maintaining stability?
• How do we balance pragmatic cooperation with addressing fundamental differences?
• Can normalization succeed when political elites pursue peace while populations remain skeptical or hostile?
Tentative Panelists: TBD
• What mechanisms allow religious leaders to influence peacemaking efforts?
• How do different faith traditions approach concepts of coexistence and tolerance?
• What role can interfaith cooperation play in reducing community tensions?
• Are there successful models of religious leaders working across theological differences?
• Can religious education systems adapt to support coexistence while maintaining traditional teachings?
Tentative Panelists: TBD
Keynote Address: TBD
1:00 - 4:30 PM | AFTERNOON SESSION: CONTEMPORARY POLICY CHALLENGES
• How have university budgets, time allocation, and educational outcomes changed over recent decades?
• What is the appropriate balance between international students and domestic enrollment?
• How should federal student aid be allocated across disciplines?
• What role does foreign funding play in university operations, and what transparency is appropriate?
• What is the role of the university system in creating good citizens and a healthy society?
Tentative Panelists: TBD
• What factors predict successful immigrant integration across generations?
• How do different countries approach immigration selection and cultural compatibility?
• What is the relationship between immigration policy and social cohesion?
• How should democracies balance humanitarian commitments with capacity constraints?
• What role should shared values or cultural factors play in immigration criteria?
Tentative Panelists: TBD
Tentative Panelists: Selected panelists from earlier sessions
Introduction by Martin Oliner, Culture for Peace Institute
Closing Address: An inspirational address on doing big things, pushing boundaries, and the American spirit of exploration, from space to innovation to cultural renewal. How do we reclaim the ambition and courage that built Western Civilization?
Tentative Speakers: TBD
FORMAT NOTES
All panels include substantial time for questions and moderated discussion. The conference encourages evidence-based analysis and constructive dialogue on complex topics. Chatham House Rule available for candid discussions.