Re-Defining Soft Power vs Return of the Strong Man: Women in the Diplomatic Service in the U.S. and Germany

Robin Quinville in conversation with Dr. Christine Althauser

For 80 years, the trans-Atlantic alliance served as the backbone of a rules-based liberal order. Today, that order is eroding—and the United States is increasingly signaling a move away from the multilateral commitments and institutional leadership that once defined its global role. With Washington adopting a more interest-driven, transactional posture, Europe faces a strategic moment of truth.  What does trans-Atlantic cooperation look like when the old assumptions no longer hold? Can Europe become a more autonomous partner—and what kind of global governance model might replace the one now fading?

Join us in conversation with two women with extensive careers as diplomats—representing the US and Germany. Robin Quinville and Christine Althauser will compare notes on their careers as women in the US-American and the German Foreign Service and also look into the future on how international and especially transatlantic relations are upheld by the Foreign Service. In particular, they will discuss what women can bring to the table in today’s more challenging negotiation climate.