Session: Sharp Power
Date/Time: April 24, 2018 / 21:00-22:30

Rapporteur:
Jeanne Choi, Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies, Johns Hopkins University

Moderator:
J. James Kim, The Asan Institute for Policy Studies

Speakers:
Patrick Cronin, Center for a New American Security
Michael J. Green, Center for Strategic and International Studies
Hikotani Takako, Columbia University
James B. Steinberg, Syracuse University

Session Sketch
The Night Session “Values Diplomacy” explored the role that values play in foreign policy and diplomacy. Panelists discussed the interplay and possible competition between values and national interests while also commenting on the future of “liberal” values in the context of the election of President Trump and the rise of China.

Opening the discussion, Moderator James Kim asked for examples of what values have shaped foreign policy among western powers. Michael Green traced the history of these key values and argued that the continued championing of such norms would be the best defense against the threat of illiberalism. In addressing the question of whether there exist certain “universal” values, he clarified that values are often defined as a function of power and threat perception. Patrick Cronin followed up by asserting that values and interests often go together and that it is important for the U.S. and other democracies to stand up for liberal values while being careful how they intervene in the affairs of other countries. The discussion then turned to the question of whether the U.S. tends to promote specific values and if that is a disadvantage for American foreign policy. James Steinberg argued that it was actually an advantage in that other countries expected the U.S. to use its power for good since its foreign policy was underpinned by certain values. Relating the Japanese perspective, Hikotani Takako explained that, while Japanese foreign policy is often viewed as value neutral, Japan is now expected to maintain the LIO in the region in the absence of continued U.S. leadership. Discussion followed on other examples in Asia of values-driven foreign policy, including, most notably, China and the alternative values model it has promoted. Finally, panelists offered their recommendations to regional leaders in the face of Trump’s America First foreign policy.

* The views expressed herein are summaries and may not necessarily reflect the views of the speakers or their affiliated institutions.