Great Decisions 2026: Tariffs, Foreign Policy, & the Future of the World Economy

Great Decisions 2026: The Future of U.S. Global Leadership Keynote Series

Tariffs, Foreign Policy, & the Future of the World Economy

with Andreas Waldkirch, Mitchell Family Professor of Economics, Colby College

March 5, 2026, 5:30-7:30 PM, 34 Bedford Street, Portland

Are tariffs an effective tool of foreign policy, or do they undermine the global economic order that has underpinned American prosperity? Andreas Waldkirch is one of the nation’s top-ranked scholars in international trade, with expertise spanning foreign direct investment, multinational firms, NAFTA, and economic integration. His research has examined how trade policies affect everything from industry productivity to environmental outcomes. Join us for an economist’s clear-eyed assessment of where U.S. trade policy is headed—and what it means for America’s role in the world economy.

Address: Lee Auditorium, Wishcamper Center, 34 Bedford Street, Portland 5:30-6:15 PM: Reception 6:15-7:30 PM: Keynote

Great Decisions is the largest and longest-running discussion program on foreign policy in the United States, offered locally by the World Affairs Council of Maine since 1980. Thanks to the generous support of our Global Benefactor “Coffee by Design,” we are offering a public lecture series in addition to our regular discussion series co-hosted with the Falmouth Memorial Library.

Note: Public lectures will be recorded to support Great Decisions discussion groups in Maine, including our annual member-facilitated series at the Falmouth Library beginning March 24, 2026.

Reserve your spot today and be part of this essential conversation on the crossroads of American foreign policy.

Tickets:

$12 for members

$20 non-members

Maine Students FREE

REGISTER HERE