International Relations and Human Rights with Nicholas Burns

Join us for an essential dialogue on international relations and human rights with Ambassador Nicholas Burns, one of America's most distinguished diplomats and the former U.S. Ambassador to the People's Republic of China (2021-2025).

Drawing on his recent experience navigating one of the world's most consequential bilateral relationships, Ambassador Burns will examine the intersection of human rights advocacy and strategic competition in global politics. During his tenure in Beijing, he confronted the challenges of defending human rights while managing complex geopolitical dynamics with China—offering unique insights into how democracies can uphold their values while engaging authoritarian powers.

With over three decades of public service spanning six presidential administrations, Ambassador Burns brings unparalleled perspective on the evolution of human rights in American foreign policy. From negotiating on Iran's nuclear program as Under Secretary of State, to leading NATO during critical post-9/11 operations, to coordinating assistance to Palestinians in the West Bank, his career reflects the practical realities and moral imperatives of diplomacy in defense of human dignity.

This timely conversation offers a rare opportunity to engage with a leading voice on the future of human rights diplomacy, the U.S.-China relationship, and the role of democratic values in shaping global politics.

About the Speaker: Ambassador Nicholas Burns is Founder and Faculty Chair of the Future of Diplomacy Project at Harvard Kennedy School. He has received fifteen honorary degrees, the Presidential Distinguished Service Award, and numerous other honors recognizing his lifetime of diplomatic achievement.