FY 2020 Office of the U.S. Speaker Program

The Office of the U.S. Speaker Program recruits dynamic American experts (referred to below as U.S. speakers or program participants) to engage international audiences on topics of strategic importance to the United States. Programs are conducted in-person and/or through virtual engagement platforms. Traveling programs generally range from three days to three weeks in length. Virtual programs usually take place on a single specified date and time and may be part of a continuing series. The Program promotes an understanding of U.S. policy priorities and institutions, and the political, economic, social, and cultural context from which they arise. The office conducts approximately 600-700 programs annually worldwide. It collaborates with U.S. embassies and consulates to develop and implement customized programs; identifies and recruits prominent U.S. experts; tailors programs to meet specific needs of international audiences through workshops, lectures, seminars, podcasts, videos, consultations, and media engagements; utilizes innovative technologies to amplify messaging; and fosters long-term relationships between U.S. speakers and overseas audiences in order to sustain dialogue on key policy issues.

U.S. Speakers represent a broad range of expert knowledge and responsible and informed opinion. The U.S. Speaker Program Office staff recruits experts by contacting professional organizations, academic institutions, other Department of State and U.S. government entities, reviewing biographical information, conducting online searches or contacting former speakers for suggestions. All U.S. Speakers must be U.S. citizens.