Join the Negotiation Task Force for a virtual negotiation exercise on the future of U.S.-Russian arms control.
The year is 2025 and U.S.-Russian relations have reached a new low. Russia remains under U.S. sanctions for its 2014 annexation of Crimea and its interference in the 2016 and 2020 U.S. presidential elections. The conflict in Ukraine remains frozen, and Washington and Moscow blame each other for the inability to reach a negotiated settlement. Today, U.S. and Russian negotiators must come together in this tense environment to negotiate the most important arms control treaty in recent history known as “Deep START,” which covers issues of missile defense, verification, and a range of emerging technologies.
The delegations comprise negotiators from the United States and the Russian Federation. In addition, to addressing the landmark deal on the table, these negotiators must also consider how this deal will fit into the international strategic context.
"Deep START" will take place online on Saturday, August 1, 12pm - 4pm EDT and on Sunday, August 2, 10am - 2pm EDT through Zoom. Over the two days, you will be working on a problem set that will allow you to engage with other negotiators through email, videoconferencing, and phone. You will have opportunity to "move" throughout our virtual space and breaks will be provided. The event will include both negotiations and a debrief. You will also be given the opportunity to conduct “informal negotiations” between 4pm on Saturday and 10am on Sunday via email or phone; participation in this informal phase is optional for all participants.
In addition to the Saturday/Sunday event, participants will be required to a) either attend a 60-min exercise introductory meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 5:30 - 6:30pm EDT through Zoom or watch a recording of this preparatory session; and b) spend 90 - 120 mins reading over the exercise materials (provided to you via email) in advance of the event.
Live on Zoom. Confirmed participants will receive a link prior to the event.
Sponsorship
This event is hosted by the Negotiation Task Force at the Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University.
Accessibility
The Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact us at 617-495-4037 or daviscenter@fas.harvard.edu in advance of your participation or visit.
Requests for Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance if possible. Please note that the Davis Center will make every effort to secure services but that services are subject to availability.
