Great Decisions series to discuss 'The Future of Europe' Feb. 16

The St. Charles Public Library is host to Great Decisions, America's largest discussion program on world affairs administered and produced by the Foreign Policy Association.

This month's discussion will be "The Future of Europe" at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in the library's Huntley Meeting Room, 1 S. Sixth Ave.

The outcome of the United Kingdom referendum on EU membership sent shock waves across the globe. It even caught British voters by surprise. The European Union has helped secure peace in Europe for the past 70 years. Now it faces an uncertain future. Amid a refugee crisis, lingering financial recession and the constant specter of terrorism, unity seems more imperative than ever. But the Brexit vote underscores the complexities of integrating an extremely diverse continent. What will post-Brexit Europe look like, and how can U.S. foreign policy adapt?

Future topics include: "Trade and Politics," "Conflict in the South China Sea," "Saudi Arabia in Transition," "U.S. Foreign Policy and Petroleum," "Latin America's Political Pendulum," and "Prospects for Afghanistan and Pakistan."

The annual series features a DVD on each topic, followed by a moderated discussion among the participants. Participants are asked to review the relevant chapter of the Great Decisions briefing book, which is available for purchase for $25 at the library's Reference Desk and also to check out. Registration is not required.

The Foreign Policy Association is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to broadening public involvement with the most important foreign policy issues facing the United States. Each year, thousands take part in the Great Decisions discussion groups around the country to increase their awareness and understanding of U.S. foreign policy concerns. For information, call (630) 584-0076 or visit www.stcharleslibrary.org.