his spring the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward’s University UPDATE series will present experts on current political, economic and social developments and the impact of the global economic crisis in Europe on Feb. 9 and in South Asia and the Middle East on March 2. All events are free and open to the public.

UPDATE: Europe — Current Political, Economic and Social Developments and the Impact of the Global Economic Crisis

Monday, Feb. 9
7 p.m.
Jones Auditorium, Robert and Pearle Ragsdale Center

The global economic crisis has focused attention on political and economic developments in Europe and their impact on U.S.-European relations. The crisis has exacerbated already difficult economic conditions in Eastern Europe and Russia deepening existing tensions, particularly between the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe and Eurasia. The ongoing crisis in the Middle East has further complicated the situation. What are the likely developments in Europe and Eurasia over the next 18 months and what are the implications for the U.S.? These and other questions will be discussed by some of the world’s leading experts in a public panel.

• Antonio J. Candil-Muñoz: Sorrell Data Networking, LLC
• Joel Krieger: Norma Wilentz Hess Professor at Wellesley College
• Paula Newberg: Director of the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University
• George Ross: Morris Hillquit Professor of Labor and Social Thought and Director of the Center for German and European Studies at Brandeis University
• David Ost: Professor of Political Science at Hobart and William Smith Colleges
• Margaret E. Crahan (moderator): Director of the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward's University

UPDATE: South Asia and The Middle East — Current Political, Economic and Social Developments and the Impact of the Global Economic Crisis

Monday, March 2
7 p.m.
Jones Auditorium, Robert and Pearle Ragsdale Center

Recent developments in India and Pakistan have suggested the fragility of South Asian stability. Internal security in both countries is under threat and the global economic crisis has undercut Indian and South Asian economic development and poverty reduction. The spillover from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan has further exacerbated tensions in the region. Religious conflict continues to destabilize the region. What are the prospects for South Asia in the short and medium term and what are the implications for the U.S.? Two of the world's best known experts on South Asia will discuss these and other issues.

• Sugata Bose: Gardiner Professor of Oceanic History and Affairs and state director of the South Asia Initiative at Harvard University
• Ayesha Jalal: Professor of History at Tufts University
• Margaret E. Crahan (moderator): Director of the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward's University

Established through a gift from Ronya Kozmetsky and her late husband, George, the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance promotes understanding of global issues.

The Kozmetsky Center’s programs present a broad spectrum of experts who are chosen for their ability to enrich the intellectual life of the university community, as well as to inform the broader public. Their presence is part of St. Edward's University’s efforts to generate discussion of major national and international public policy issues.

More information about the Kozmetsky Center.