us foreign policy

A Fulbright University Vietnam (FUV) Student Speaks Out

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I recently received an intriguing message via LinkedIn from a Vietnamese undergraduate enrolled at FUV (Tagline: Creating the next generation of change-makers in Vietnam for a rapidly evolving world) in HCMC. Here's the unedited back-and-forth between the student and me, which he gave me permission to share on an unattributed basis. I appreciated his candor … Continue reading A Fulbright University Vietnam (FUV) Student Speaks Out

From the Fire Into the Frying Pan US: “We are here because you are (were) there”

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I couldn't find an image with the reverse scenario so you'll just have to use your imagination. I shared my August 2022 essay They Hate US ‘Cause They Ain’t US! with a number of colleagues with a request for their reaction to my favorite reader comment to date (see below). I wanted to know if … Continue reading From the Fire Into the Frying Pan US: “We are here because you are (were) there”

“U.S. will have to work hard to win over Vietnam’s conservatives”

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Anti-American sentiments remain entrenched among certain groups. Winning over "Vietnam's conservatives" would not be in the best interests of Viet Nam. In fact, the country's foreign policy is characterized by independence and openness. Here's an excerpt from the description on the website of the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in the US: … Continue reading “U.S. will have to work hard to win over Vietnam’s conservatives”

“Higher Ed as a Weapon” Revisited

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Below is a diplomatic cable that was leaked in the spring of 2008 by someone working for the US Embassy in Hanoi. I became aware of this document when it magically appeared in my inbox. Keep in mind that this was in the pre-Wikileaks era. Obviously, someone wanted the world to know (thank you, someone!) … Continue reading “Higher Ed as a Weapon” Revisited

“Qualities incomprehensible to the ‘think tank’ specialists”

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Below is an excerpt from Ho Chi Minh - An Appreciation by Wilfred Burchett. It was published in 1972 but its relevance in 2020 is obvious. It would be interesting to have a discussion, especially with young Vietnamese, about their interpretation of Burchett's wartime reflections. Thanks to his son, George, for the heads-up. If it … Continue reading “Qualities incomprehensible to the ‘think tank’ specialists”

Lansdale’s Ghost

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Below is a review of Max Boot's book about Edward Lansdale by Thomas A. Bass that appeared in the May 2018 issue the Mekong Review.  In case you don't know who Max Boot, check out this Wikipedia entry.  He is one of the resident US nationalists at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR).  Bass describes … Continue reading Lansdale’s Ghost

“Losing Hearts & Minds” Say What?

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(US) American-Iranian Relations & International Education during the Cold War The question remains about how institutions of higher education can thrive economically and promote responsible internationalization. On the one hand, educational exchange can help generate change around the world and enhance American influence and prestige. On the other hand, schools, like nations, should not compromise … Continue reading “Losing Hearts & Minds” Say What?