In this last episode of the Special Transatlantic Talks series, we explore approaches to counter foreign information manipulation, the different approaches in the US and the Europe, as well as specific tools such as the Hamilton 2.0 dashboard. Moderated by AIES Director Michael Zinkanell, this discussion features Bret Schafer, Senior Fellow for Media and Digital Disinformation at the Alliance for Securing Democracy and creator of Hamilton 2.0, a tool tracking Russian, Chinese, and Iranian state media. The session focuses on foreign interference, emphasizing how disinformation, distinct from misinformation, involves deliberate efforts to mislead. Bret explores tools like the Hamilton 2.0 Dashboard and Information Laundromat that expose state-sponsored narratives and promote transparency. The discussion also addresses how global coordination, media literacy, and individual responsibility are essential to counter disinformation, while contrasting the U.S. and EU approaches to regulation and platform accountability. This special series is conducted in partnership with YATA Austria, the Young Transatlantic Initiative, and supported by the U.S. Embassy in Vienna.
In this episode of the Special Transatlantic Talks series, we explore Austria’s defence partnership with the United States and the implications of this cooperation for both countries, especially in light of evolving geopolitical dynamics. Moderated by AIES Research Fellow Ulf Steindl, the discussion features a distinguished guest, Major General Norbert Huber, who serves as Austria's Defence, Military, Naval, and Air Attaché to the United States, Canada, and Brazil. With decades of experience in the Austrian Armed Forces, including leadership roles in armament procurement and force development, Major General Huber offers unique insights into Austria's strategic reasons for defence cooperation with the U.S. and the benefits of the State Partnership Programme with Vermont. The episode also covers Austria’s partnership with NATO and its complementarity with U.S. defence relations, as well as Austria’s utilization of U.S. defence procurement programmes. This special series is conducted in partnership with YATA Austria, the Young Transatlantic Initiative, and supported by the U.S. Embassy in Vienna.
In this episode of Transatlantic Talks, we dive into the pivotal implications of the 2024 U.S. elections on both domestic and foreign policy. Moderated by Michael Zinkanell, Director of the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES), this bipartisan discussion features two distinguished guests: Mark Pfeifle, founder and president of Off the Record Strategies. Previously, he served as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communication at the White House. As a recognized leader in crisis communications, digital media, and cyber security, Pfeifle is a frequent expert commentator for major outlets like CBS, CNN, and The Wall Street Journal. Jason Altmire, a former U.S. Congressman who served three terms in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2013. Now a leading public affairs consultant, Altmire is also the author of Dead Center: How Political Polarization Divided America and What We Can Do About It. Known for his centrist voting record, he frequently contributes to The Hill and appears on national news programs. The episode covers the stark contrasts between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump’s leadership styles, as well as their differing approaches to foreign policy, including relations with China, NATO, and the EU. The discussion also highlights the growing challenges of artificial intelligence, disinformation, and how these factors may impact electoral integrity. Additionally, the speakers explore the potential shifts in transatlantic relations based on the election outcome. This special series is conducted in partnership with YATA Austria, the Young Transatlantic Initiative, and supported by the U.S. Embassy in Vienna.
In the second episode of the Transatlantic Talks series, we explore the potential impact of the upcoming US presidential elections on transatlantic relations. This episode, originally a virtual video discussion held on September 3, 2024, features an expert panel moderated by David Kirsch. The discussion includes: Elmar Theveßen, Washington Bureau Chief for ZDF Julius van de Laar, political consultant Knut Dethlefsen, project director at the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung in Brussels Sergey Lagodinsky, Member of the European Parliament, Greens/EFA Paul Aigner, US election analyst The panel delves into Kamala Harris’s campaign following Joe Biden's resignation, the significance of her running mate Tim Walz, and the implications for US-European relations. Key insights focus on the importance of swing states, the influence of key demographics, and concerns about possible unrest following a close election. This special series is conducted in partnership with YATA Austria, the Young Transatlantic Initiative, and supported by the U.S. Embassy in Vienna.
In this inaugural episode of the Transatlantic Talks series, we explore the future of Europe’s defence strategy amidst an evolving transatlantic security landscape. Featuring special guest Michael Kofman, Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, this episode delves into NATO’s strategic priorities following the war in Ukraine and the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in the alliance. Join host Michael Zinkanell, Director of the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES), as they discuss the challenges of European military investment, NATO's regional defence initiatives, and the broader implications for the U.S.-Europe relationship. This special series is conducted in partnership with YATA Austria and the Young Transatlantic Initiative, and supported by the U.S. Embassy in Vienna.