Experiencing the Global Aspen Network: A Journey Through Berlin 

This past October, I had the unique opportunity to explore Germany and witness the breadth of the Aspen Institute’s global network through the lens of one of Berlin’s most influential organizations, Aspen Institute Germany. This experience was made possible through the International Program Collaboration (IPC) and the Aspen Institute International Partners program. IPC offers a rare chance for Aspen US and International Partners staff to collaborate, exchange ideas, and immerse themselves in the impactful work taking place across the Institute’s global network.

During my time in Berlin, I worked closely with the Aspen Germany team on two significant events: the U.S. Election Speaker Series Tour and the Civil Society & Think Tank Forum Berlin. These forums offered me invaluable insights into the transatlantic relationship, German culture and society, the global ripple effects of the U.S. presidential election, and the ways in which the Aspen Institute fosters a free, just, and equitable society worldwide. 

Growing up in a multicultural household—Filipino on my mother’s side, and German and Irish on my father’s—I’ve always felt a connection to German culture, albeit a somewhat stereotypical one. My love for sauerkraut, bratwurst, and German beer is so strong that I even met my boyfriend at a “German” Biergarten in Washington, D.C. Learning about the IPC program was exciting, especially since it offered the chance to visit a country I’d never been to but felt intrinsically tied to. I was equally eager to delve deeper into Berlin’s dynamic and complex history. 

Although I was initially anxious about not knowing the language, I made an effort to learn the basics (thanks, Duolingo!) before arriving. My concerns quickly dissipated, as Berlin’s international character and frequent use of English made navigating the city much easier. This experience reminded me that language is just one of many ways we connect with others. What truly matters are the ideas we share and the collaborative spirit that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries. 

Transatlantic Connections and the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election 

Aspen Institute Germany’s events provided me with a deeper understanding of the transatlantic relationship, especially in the context of the U.S. presidential election and its far-reaching implications. Early in the week, I joined the Aspen Germany team for several events with Bruce Stokes, Visiting Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund and former Pew Research pollster. As the featured speaker in Aspen Germany’s Transatlantic Program’s U.S. Election Speaker Series Tour, Bruce engaged with high school students, college groups, and local policy experts, discussing the potential outcomes of the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Across these diverse audiences, shared concerns emerged. Germans of all ages raised questions about potential foreign policy shifts under a Kamala Harris or Donald Trump administration. Many emphasized the importance of maintaining strong U.S.-European and U.S.-German relations, even amid uncertainties. They also drew parallels to challenges within the EU, such as political polarization and economic and social dissatisfaction, highlighting a shared global sentiment of discontent with governance. Bruce also noted that emotional factors often drive voting behavior worldwide, a reminder of the critical need for civic education. 

This series underscored the interconnectedness of the U.S. and EU—not only politically, but also socially, economically, and culturally. It reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts to address shared global challenges, and I left with a renewed appreciation for the Aspen Institute’s role in fostering these connections. 

The Civil Society & Think Tank Forum and the Berlin Process  

 During my visit, I also had the privilege of working with Aspen Germany on the Civil Society & Think Tank Forum, a key event in the Berlin Process’s 10-year anniversary. This initiative promotes collaboration between the Western Balkans and the EU, with the forum focusing on amplifying civil society voices in the EU accession process.

Although I admittedly initially knew little about the history and politics of the Western Balkans, hearing from regional perspectives on issues like marginalized communities, a common regional market and economic mobility, energy security and climate change, sustainable development, dealing with the past and reconciliation, and opinions from Western Balkan Youth broadened my perspective. The conversations about empowering young people particularly resonated with me, as Aspen US is increasingly focused on youth engagement. The shared ambition of young people worldwide to be included in decision-making processes reflects the universality of their concerns and aspirations.  

The Global Impact of the Aspen Network 

 What struck me most about my time in Berlin was the vast, interconnected network of the Aspen Institute and its partners around the world. From political thought leaders to social innovators, the Aspen network spans continents and brings together a diverse group of individuals who share a common goal: to advance a society rooted in justice, freedom, and equality.  This opportunity to collaborate with Aspen Germany gave me a glimpse into the work being done to address pressing global issues—from strengthening democratic institutions to addressing the transatlantic relationship and more. It was empowering to witness firsthand the impact of this collaborative work, as it became clear that the Aspen Institute’s efforts extend far beyond any single event or region. As I left Berlin, I carried with me a newfound appreciation for the power of global networks and the role we all play in shaping a more connected and resilient world.