[aaus-list] Report on First EU-Ukrainian Event at Columbia University

[Bohdan Oryshkevich]

USA/USA hosted a presentation at Columbia University by First EU Counselor at UN: Dr. Cesare Onestini

The USA/USA Program organized a very successful presentation at Columbia University by Dr. Cesare Onestini, the first Political Counselor from the European Commission (EU) at the United Nations in New York. The event took place on April 25th simultaneously with the Association for the Study of Nationalities Conference (www.nationalities.org) being held at Columbia at the same time. 

Dr. Onestini, a (D.Phil.) graduate in Politics and International Relations from Nuffield College Oxford, spoke on conflict resolution and the European Union for about forty minutes. This was followed by a question and answer period lasting another half hour. A reception featuring Crimean wines followed. 

A standing room only audience was in attendance with conference attendees from the United States, Ukraine, and around the world. Students from Ukraine and Columbia were also present. The USA/USA Program made many friends in the international academic community even though this event was organized at relatively short notice. The program intends to take advantage of these new contacts. 

Dr. Onestini provided a nuanced overview of how the EU studies and conflicts around the world. There was some discussion concerning security issues such as energy and terrorism. There was also some discussion of Georgia and Russia. In general, Dr. Onestini discussed strategies rather than specifics. But the answers were generally direct and satisfying. The complexities of EU decision making processes were clear. 

This was the first EU-Ukrainian event in New York City that anyone can recall. The USA/USA Program hopes to build on this event. 

We welcome questions and interest from New York City, Ukraine, and around the world.  We have the information and contacts to have EU representatives make similar presentations at other colleges and campuses around the United States.

Self Reliance NY FCU sponsored the event. 

Thank you for your attention. 

Bohdan A. Oryshkevich, MD, MPH 
USA/USA Program 
New York City 
bohdan at ukrainianscholarships.org 
www.ukrainianscholarships.org