Fascism: A conversation with Madeleine Albright and Strobe Talbott

As a child in war-torn Europe and in her long career as an American diplomat, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright observed and took part in the clash between democracy and fascism that defined the twentieth century. In “Fascism: A Warning” (HarperCollins, 2018), Secretary Albright writes that a fascist “is someone who claims to speak for a whole nation or group, is utterly unconcerned with the rights of others, and is willing to use violence and whatever other means are necessary to achieve the goals he or she might have.” She argues that fascism now presents a more virulent threat to peace and justice than at any time since the end of World War II.

On September 7, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted a conversation with Secretary Albright and Strobe Talbott, distinguished fellow in residence and former Brookings president, on the threat of fascism and how we can avoid repeating the tragic errors of the past. The discussion was followed by a Q&A with the audience. A book signing followed the event. Copies of “Fascism: A Warning” were available for purchase.

This discussion is part of the Brookings – Robert Bosch Foundation Transatlantic Initiative, which aims to build up and expand resilient networks and trans-Atlantic activities to analyze and work on issues concerning trans-Atlantic relations and social cohesion in Europe and the United States. Brookings President John Allen provided introductory remarks and Christian Hänel, senior vice president at Robert Bosch Stiftung, opened the event.

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