FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – HFX announced today the opening of its call for applications for the 2024 Peace With Women Fellowship. The Fellowship is a three-week executive study tour for senior female military officers from NATO and NATO-partner countries. The 2024 program will include meetings with senior military, political, business, technology and civil society…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – HFX is proud to announce that the 2024 Halifax International Security Forum will be held November 22-24, 2024 in Nova Scotia, Canada.  The 2024 Forum takes place two weeks after the US presidential election and will be the first major international gathering in the post-election environment. “In case we needed…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, NS – Peter Van Praagh, President of HFX, awarded the HFX John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service today to the People of Israel. The Prize was presented at the 15th annual Halifax International Security Forum – an event that Senator McCain long supported and promoted. “Since its founding in…

  Halifax, NS — As part of its commitment to community outreach in Nova Scotia, HFX will be holding a public panel about the importance of victory in Ukraine. The discussion takes place the day before Halifax International Security Forum begins its three-day annual meeting at the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel. “For 15 years, HFX…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HFX today announced today the five winners of the first-of-its-kind global competition to bring young people to its major international security forum. The high school student winners from North America, Eurasia, the Caribbean and Africa will join the 15th Halifax International Security Forum convening this week in Nova Scotia. The 15@15 competition…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE >Agenda to include conversations with political and military leaders from Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan, the United States, Canada and more than 60 global democracies together with champions of freedom from Russia, Iran, Venezuela, Afghanistan and Hong Kong; >15th annual Forum introduces acronym to describe a new alignment of nations where global democracies’ strategic…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC – HFX today announced the 2023 class of its landmark Peace With Women Fellowship. The program, now in its sixth year, received another impressive group of applications from NATO and NATO-partner countries. Among the career highlights of the Class of 2023: 18 higher education degrees 23 deployments 301 years of combined service…

  HFX is pleased to open media accreditation for the 15th Halifax International Security Forum, taking place 17-19 November 2023 in Nova Scotia, Canada. As Russia’s illegal war of aggression continues, the very future of freedom itself is at stake. Every issue in the world is connected to what happens in Ukraine: food security, energy security, human security…

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – Fifteen-year-olds from around the world now have an extra 15 days to get their applications in for the global competition 15@15: Youth Building Democracy. HFX announced yesterday an extension until September 30 to receive submissions. The 15@15 competition is organized to mark the 15th annual Halifax International Security Forum, taking place November…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – To mark the 15th annual Halifax International Security Forum, HFX announces the launch of 15@15: Youth Building Democracy. This global competition will introduce young people to HFX’s vital mission of strengthening strategic cooperation among the world’s democracies. Fifteen years ago – 2008 – was momentous: Russia invaded its smaller neighbor Georgia, China…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – HFX is proud to announce that its 15th anniversary Halifax International Security Forum will be held November 17-19, 2023 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Over the past 15 years, Halifax International Security Forum has become widely recognized as the world’s preeminent gathering for leaders committed to democratic principles. Since November…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, NS — The following remarks were delivered this afternoon by HFX President Peter Van Praagh to welcome guests to the 2022 Halifax International Security Forum. Please check against delivery — Minister Anand, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of the Congressional Delegation, Distinguished officers, Ladies and Gentlemen, colleagues, and friends: My name is Peter…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, NS — HFX, host of the annual Halifax International Security Forum, the leading security meeting for democracies, today released its agenda along with the names of some of its prominent participants. The 2022 Halifax International Security Forum will be held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from November 18th to the 20th. Canada’s…

Washington, DC FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HFX is pleased to open media accreditation for the 2022 Forum, taking place November 18 to 20 in Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada). In its 14th year, the Halifax International Security Forum is the world’s largest and most significant gathering of democratic defence leaders committed to global security and prosperity. Since…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC–HFX today announced the 2022 class of its landmark Peace With Women Fellowship. The program, now in its fifth year, experienced the most competitive selection process to date with a record number of countries submitting applications. Among the career highlights of the Class of ‘22: The first woman of the Austrian Armed…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HFX today announced the hiring of two outstanding individuals to its leadership team.  Susan Markham, a co-founder of Smash Strategies, will serve as Director of the Peace With Women Fellowship, and Michael Svetlik, most recently with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, will serve as HFX Chief Operating Officer. Together, they join HFX’s…

Transition to a 4-day work week prioritizes work-life balance and recognizes employees’ well-being.   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   WASHINGTON, DC – In a government town that’s on the go around the clock, Washington’s HFX has instituted a counter-intuitive policy: a four-day workweek.  Like many private sector and non-profit leaders, HFX president Peter Van Praagh guided…

Sopranos creator, David Chase and his wife, Denise, donate $25,000 to HFX Ukraine Victory Fund to provide a Dedicated Satellite Constellation to Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s invasion.   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   Washington, DC – The Halifax International Security Forum today expressed thanks and gratitude to television icon and Sopranos creator David Chase…

HFX will fund a Satellogic Dedicated Satellite Constellation, providing Ukraine new capabilities to task and receive timely high-resolution satellite imagery FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC — HFX today launched the worldwide Ukraine Victory Fund with an initial aim of raising $10 million to dramatically improve Ukraine’s access to satellite imagery as it fights Russia’s invasion.…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   Washington, DC – HFX today announced that its 14th Halifax International Security Forum will take place November 18-20, 2022 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Forum is the preeminent international affairs and security gathering for leaders committed to democratic principles, including senior decision-makers from politics, militaries, media and business. “Strategic cooperation among…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   WASHINGTON, DC – HFX today announced the rescheduled 2020 class of its landmark Peace With Women Fellowshipthat begins its program this week. This year marks the first time in the Fellowship’s five-year history that it will host two Fellowship classes: the 2020 class in March and the 2022 class in October.…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA — The following remarks were delivered this afternoon by Peter Van Praagh, Founding President of the Halifax International Security Forum to welcome guests to the 2021 Halifax International Security Forum. Please check against delivery — Minister Anand, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of the Congressional Delegation, Distinguished officers, Ladies and…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 18, 2021 HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX), North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, today released its agenda and an outline of some of its leading participants. HFX 2021 will be held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from November 19th to the 21st. Participants will be officially hosted by Canada’s…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OTTAWA – International participants in the 2021 Peace With Women Fellowship were pleased to meet today with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of National Defence Anita Anand to discuss this year’s extensive leadership curriculum. They were also joined by Canada’s Ambassador for Women, Peace and Security Jacqueline O’Neill. “Interest from…

2021 Forum to be held in person, November 19-21, in Halifax, Nova Scotia FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – HFX today announced the release of the topical agenda for the 2021 Halifax International Security Forum that will be held in person November 19-21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. “This past year was a trying one for…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC — HFX, the Washington, DC-based convener of the Halifax International Security Forum, is pleased to announce three new members of its Board of Directors. The Honorable Mark Lippert, a current Board member, has also been appointed as Board Vice Chair. The new Board members are: Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, who was elected…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC–HFX today announced the 2021 class of its landmark Peace With Women Fellowship. The program, now in its fourth year, experienced the most competitive selection process to date with a record number of countries submitting applications. Accomplishments of the 2021 class include: The first woman to reach the Admiral ranks in…

July 21, 2021 Washington, DC — HFX, the Washington, DC-based convener of the prestigious Halifax International Security Forum, is proud to announce that it will hold its first major meeting in Asia in Taipei, Taiwan. HFX TAIPEI will happen on January 21-23, 2022 in association with Taiwan’s Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR). “HFX…

    Washington, DC — HFX, the Washington, DC-based convener of the prestigious Halifax International Security Forum, is proud to announce that it will hold its first major meeting in Asia in Taipei, Taiwan. HFX TAIPEI will happen on January 21-23, 2022 in association with Taiwan’s Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR). “HFX will…

The last week of May began with the dictator in Belarus hijacking a commercial passenger plane in Europe so he could imprison a young dissident journalist. The week ended with the dictator in China hijacking the courts in Hong Kong so he could imprison dissidents there. It might seem that it has been a bad…

  By chipping away at China’s sense of its own invincibility, we can gradually change the climate that also encourages Beijing to believe it can take hostages, like the two Michaels, with impunity. As China ramps up the pressure on democracies across the world—throwing in the recent Stalinist-era denunciation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC — HFX today invited President Biden and democratic leaders everywhere to endorse #StandTogetherOnChina, its new initiative that encourages all democracies to coordinate their efforts to meet the challenge from China. “Over the past little while, authoritarians have put forward alternative forms of government that, they say, are superior to democracy. …

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – HFX today announced that the 13th Halifax International Security Forum will take place November 19-21, 2021 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Forum is the preeminent annual gathering of the world’s democratic decision-makers in the political, military, media and business spheres. “We have every confidence that the world’s democracies will…

On Giving Tuesday, we at HFX are turning to our community to ask for help in amplifying the critical message of the just-published HFX China Handbook, and its Principles. https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/en/ To support our work and the 7 HFX China Principles, please consider giving $8 dollars. These Principles are: IGNORING CHINA’S ATTEMPTS TO INTERFERE IN DEMOCRATIC SOCIETIES;…

华盛顿特区 — HFX 今天发起了一项筹款活动，以提高人们对其新发布的、将在全世界范围内推广的  HFX 中国原则的认识和支持。请访问https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/cn/。  “请支持 7/8 运动，传达您反对中国不断破坏民主的坚定决心，”HFX 总裁 Peter Van Praagh 表示。“我们呼吁所有支持民主的人为我们的活动捐款 8 美元。” HFX 中国原则可在《民主国家手册，中国与民主国家：伟大的博弈》中找到。 HFX 中国原则: 民主世界承诺保护自己不受下列破坏其价值观和生活方式的做法的损害： 无视中国干涉民主社会的企图； 把与中华人民共和国有关的观点、著作、艺术作品或声明（无论是否批评）提交进行审查、合作或参与审查或自我审查； 参与任何帮助中共压迫本国人民的商业或技术相关活动或 交流； 忽视反对中华人民共和国建立全球互联网治理和技术标准、使其与自己的专制价值观和野心保持一致的企图； 支持或者参与对任何批评中国的人进行任何形式的惩罚、制裁； 不支持世界各地面临中华人民共和国压力和恐吓的民主人士和政府； 明知是用强迫劳动制造的，或者是由于伪造、盗窃知识产权等犯罪活动产生的中国产或服务，而进行这些产品或服务的购买或交易。 2020 年 Halifax 国际安全论坛将于 11 月 20 日至 22 日举行，届时会有一个全体小组讨论，题目也叫“中国与民主国家：伟大的博弈”。它将在 www.halifaxtheforum.org 上进行现场直播。  — 30 — 如有媒体垂询，请联系： 沟通经理 Robin MacLachlan Halifax 国际安全论坛 communications@halifaxtheforum.org 其他垂询请发送至 info@halifaxtheforum.org

WASHINGTON, DC – HFX a lancé aujourd’hui une campagne de financement pour sensibiliser sur et soutenir les Principes HFX pour la Chine récemment produits et qui seront défendus à travers le monde, disponible sur https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/fr/.  « Prière de soutenir la Campagne 7/8 pour envoyer votre message de forte détermination contre les efforts incessants déployés par la…

WASHINGTON, DC – HFX today launched a funding campaign to raise awareness and support for its newly released HFX China Principles that it will be championing around the world, available at https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/en/. “Please support the 7/8 Campaign to send your message of firm resolve against China’s relentless efforts to undermine democracy,” said Peter Van Praagh,…

华盛顿特区 — HFX 今天发布了它将在全世界倡导的 7 条 HFX 中国原则。请访问https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/cn/。 “HFX 中国原则非常明确地阐明，世界各地的人们如何保护自己的民主国家不受中国干预。”HFX 总裁 Peter Van Praagh 表示。 HFX 中国原则可在《民主国家手册，中国与民主国家：伟大的博弈》中找到。 HFX 中国原则: 民主世界承诺保护自己不受下列破坏其价值观和生活方式的做法的损害： 无视中国干涉民主社会的企图； 把与中华人民共和国有关的观点、著作、艺术作品或声明（无论是否批评）提交进行审查、合作或参与审查或自我审查； 参与任何帮助中共压迫本国人民的商业或技术相关活动或 交流； 忽视反对中华人民共和国建立全球互联网治理和技术标准、使其与自己的专制价值观和野心保持一致的企图； 支持或者参与对任何批评中国的人进行任何形式的惩罚、制裁； 不支持世界各地面临中华人民共和国压力和恐吓的民主人士和政府； 明知是用强迫劳动制造的，或者是由于伪造、盗窃知识产权等犯罪活动产生的中国产或服务，而进行这些产品或服务的购买或交易。 2020 年 Halifax 国际安全论坛将于 11 月 20 日至 22 日举行，届时会有一个全体小组讨论，题目也叫“中国与民主国家：伟大的博弈”。它将在 www.halifaxtheforum.org 上进行现场直播。  — 30 — 如有媒体垂询，请联系： 沟通经理 Robin MacLachlan Halifax 国际安全论坛 communications@halifaxtheforum.org 其他垂询请发送至 info@halifaxtheforum.org

WASHINGTON, DC – HFX a lancé aujourd’hui ses 7 Principes HFX pour la Chine qu’il compte défendre à travers le monde, disponible sur https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/fr/.  « Les Principes HFX pour la Chine exprime très clairement comment les individus partout dans le monde peuvent défendre leurs démocraties contre l’ingérence chinoise », dit Peter Van Praagh, Président d’HFX.   Les Principes…

WASHINGTON, DC – HFX today released its 7 HFX China Principles that it will be championing around the world, available at https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/en/. “The HFX China Principles spell out in very clear language how people everywhere can defend their democracies from Chinese meddling,” said Peter Van Praagh, HFX President. The HFX China Principles are found in…

HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX) concluded its proceedings today but the conversations started at HFX2020 – on topics like China, American engagement and the future of the international order – will continue for months to come. “The global pandemic forced most of our discussions online this year, but HFX showed once again…

New Zealand Gets Top Marks for How They’ve Dealt with COVID-19; United States Gets Failing Grade; Opinions about the WHO are Mixed   HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX) concluded its proceedings today but the conversations started at HFX2020 – on topics like China, American engagement and the future of the international order…

HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX) concluded its proceedings today but the conversations started at HFX2020 – on topics like China, American engagement and the future of the international order – will continue for months to come. “The global pandemic forced most of our discussions online this year, but HFX showed once again…

Only Slim Majority (53%, +1) Confident in their Country’s Ability to Deal with Epidemic; Fewer (45%, -1) Confident in Protection from Hacking   TORONTO, ON — A recent Ipsos survey conducted in 28 countries reveals that more global citizens now perceive a health epidemic (78%, +27 points since last year) as the top threat over the next…

HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX) announced today that Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff, Gen. Jonathan Vance received its prestigious Builder Award. “The Builder Award recognizes individuals or groups who have been instrumental to the success of HFX and are tireless advocates for global security,” said Peter Van Praagh, HFX President. “Gen. Vance…

Ipsos Polling for Halifax Security Forum Reveals Just 42% Believe China Will have a Positive Impact, down 11 Points Since Last Year   Toronto, ON – The year 2020 has seen a precipitous drop in the proportion of global citizens who believe that China will have a positive influence on global affairs in the next…

HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX), North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, released the agenda of its plenaries and panel discussions that will be taking place this week from November 20-22. The complete agenda can be viewed here, but among the highlights are: China vs Democracy: The Greatest Game – Taking…

WASHINGTON, DC — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX) today announced the appointment of Mark Lippert and Luis Rubio to the Forum’s Board of Directors. “I am very pleased that Mark and Luis agreed to join what is already a very strong team of international defense and security experts,” said HFX Board Chair, Dr. Janice Gross…

用于立即发布 华盛顿特区 – HFX 今天出版了一本民主国家手册，以支持形成对中国共产党 (CCP) 对全世界自由构成的挑战的共同理解。 这本名为《中国与民主国家：伟大的博弈》的手册有英文、法文和中文版，可在https://halifaxtheforum.org/china-handbook/cn/ 网站下载。 “2020 年见证了民主世界对中国共产党 (CCP) 的认知的范式转变，”HFX 总裁 Peter Van Praagh 表示。 “习近平领导下的中国现在是历史上最强大的专制国家。HFX 的《民主国家手册》为政策制定者、记者、企业和公众提供了一个全面的指南，让他们了解我们面对的是什么，”Van Praagh 补充说。 该手册还包括一套原则，HFX 将在世界各地倡导这些原则，以捍卫支撑民主社会的价值观。 HFX 在 2020 年 2 月至 10 月期间对超过 250 名全球专家和领导人进行了深入采访，其中包括奥巴马、布什和克林顿政府的前内阁官员。这些采访构成了手册研究的基础。 2020 年 Halifax 国际安全论坛将于 11 月 20 日至 22 日举行，届时会有一个全体小组讨论，题目也叫“中国与民主国家：伟大的博弈”。它将在 www.halifaxtheforum.org 上进行现场直播。  — 30 — 如有媒体垂询，请联系： 沟通经理 Robin MacLachlan Halifax 国际安全论坛…

POUR DISTRIBUTION IMMÉDIATE WASHINGTON, DC—HFX a publié aujourd’hui un Guide pour les démocraties afin de soutenir une vision partagée du défi que pose le Parti communiste chinois (PCC) à la liberté à travers le monde.  Le guide intitulé Chine contre démocratie: Le plus grand jeu, est disponible en anglais, en français et en chinois, et…

点击这里查看中文 | Cliquez ici pour le français FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC—HFX today published a Handbook for Democracies to support a shared understanding of the challenge that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) poses to freedom around the world. The handbook, China vs. Democracy: The Greatest Game, is available for download in English, French, and Chinese…

HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum (HFX), the preeminent gathering of leaders committed to strengthening strategic cooperation among democracies, today highlighted some of the key speakers at this year’s discussions to be held November 20-22. Participants from more than 80 democratic countries will hear from Canada’s Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan; United States…

The 2020 Halifax International Security Forum will take place virtually November 20-22, 2020. Fill out the below form to receive updates about HFX2020. To learn more about this year’s Forum, click here.

Washington, DC – Canada’s strong reaction to Beijing’s ominous threat to Canadians in Hong Kong is commendable and should be applauded, HFX said in a statement today.  “Canada has demonstrated incredible patience with regard to China’s behavior,” Peter Van Praagh, HFX President said.  “It is right and appropriate that Prime Minister Trudeau and Ministers Sajjan…

WASHINGTON, DC—Halifax International Security Forum (HFX), the world’s leading gathering for leaders committed to strengthening security cooperation among democracies, today released the topical agenda for its annual conference. Please see the agenda here. HFX President, Peter Van Praagh, also announced that the Forum will continue as scheduled November 20-22.  This year’s event will be a…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – Peter Van Praagh, President of Halifax International Security Forum, today thanked Gen. Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff of the Canadian Armed Forces, for his steadfast support of the Forum over many years. “Gen. Vance has energized the Forum and its mission to strengthen strategic cooperation among the world’s democracies…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC– The highest-ranking female officer in her country. The Commander of the Electronic Warfare Operational Unit. The Director of Maritime Security & Arctic Region Policy on the National Security Council. These are just a few of the accomplishments of the 2020 cohort of the Halifax Peace With Women Fellowship. The program,…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington DC – The Halifax International Security Forum today called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to end his prosecution of predecessor Petro Poroshenko. “President Zelensky should know that supporters of Ukraine’s democratic and economic development are under no illusions about the political motivations behind attempts to jail former President Poroshenko,” said Peter…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – The Halifax International Security Forum today announced the appointment of Janice Gross Stein as Chair of the Forum’s Board of Directors. “We are very proud and excited to have someone of Ms. Stein’s stature helm our organization and look forward to working with her as we enter our thirteenth…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – The Halifax International Security Forum today announced the appointment of Janice Gross Stein as Chair of the Forum’s Board of Directors. “We are very proud and excited to have someone of Ms. Stein’s stature helm our organization and look forward to working with her as we enter our thirteenth…

  Seventy-five years ago, the Second World War served as the impetus for creating an international system that worked for a very long time. Instead of another major conflict, let us use this current crisis as the impetus for modernizing the international system today Seventy-five years to the month after they defeated the Nazis in…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – “Politically motivated charges against Figo Chan and other pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong should be dropped immediately,” said Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum today. Chan and human rights campaigner Emily Lau accepted the 2019 John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service at the…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum is proud to announce the opening of the Call for Applications for the 2020 Halifax Peace With Women Fellowship. The Fellowship is a 3-week executive tour for senior active-duty women military officers that will take place from October 26 to November 23, 2020. Fellows will…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum announced today that the 2020 Forum will take place November 20-22 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Now in its 12th year, the annual conference brings together democratic decision-makers, including a significant delegation from the United States Congress, with individuals on the ground facing consequential local threats,…

For Immediate Release Halifax, NS – Halifax International Security Forum concluded its proceedings today with representatives from over 80 democracies providing important guidance on the global security challenges of 2020 and beyond. “Again this year, the Halifax International Security Forum has shown why it is a must-attend event for democratic leaders, subject experts and decision…

A more dangerous world: People fear hackings over attacks to their personal safety  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Toronto, Canada — An increasing number of people feel the world became a more dangerous place over the past year after two consecutive years of declines on the measure. A new Ipsos Global Advisor survey done on behalf of the…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Halifax, NS – Halifax International Security Forum Board Member Cindy McCain presented the John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service today to the people of Hong Kong in recognition of their struggle to preserve their rights and to press for democratic reform. The prize was presented at the eleventh annual Halifax…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Halifax, Canada – Peter Van Praagh, President of Halifax International Security Forum, today unveiled a new year-long initiative focused on China. “It’s no longer a secret that Xi Jinping’s China is working hard to make the world safe for authoritarianism,” said Van Praagh. “It is time for a comprehensive China strategy for…

*Check Against Delivery* Ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of the Congressional Delegation, Distinguished officers, Ladies and Gentlemen, colleagues and friends: Welcome to Halifax. Before I say anything further, I want to give a special ‘welcome back’ to Canada’s Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan. As many of you know, between last year’s Forum and today,…

Future of the world order: How do you view the U.S. and China’s influence? Toronto, Canada, November 20, 2019 — An ongoing trade war between the world’s two biggest economies is having an impact on how people view the influence that the U.S. and China have on world affairs. A new Ipsos Global Advisor survey…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, today released its agenda and an outline of some of its leading participants. The agenda release comes on the same day that Canada’s Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, announced his new cabinet including the re-appointment…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC–Peter Van Praagh, founder and President of Halifax International Security Forum, today announced that Mrs. Cindy McCain and Major-General (Ret.) Tammy Harris had joined the Board of Directors as part of a wider expansion of both the Board and senior staff. Mr. Jonathan Weisstub, Chairman of the Board of Directors, added…

HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM WELCOMES 2019 CLASS OF THE PEACE WITH WOMEN FELLOWSHIP FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC–Halifax International Security Forum today welcomed to Washington, DC, its newest class of the Peace With Women Fellowship. The 11 participants hail from 10 NATO and NATO-allied countries. The Peace With Women Fellowship deepens the knowledge and expands the…

Plenary Sessions (On-the-Record) Revolutions of Our Time: Freedom Without US Values Trade: Our Way or the Huawei The World’s Democracies: The Importance of Being Allies Institution Evolution: International Law and Global Order End of the Earth: The Arctic 2020s Vision: Responsibility to Pro-Tech Security Solutions, Women’s Contributions Revolutions and their Remains Informal Sessions (Off-the-Record) Afghanistan…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC–Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense convener, today released the topical agenda for its annual conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia, November 22-24. Please see the agenda here. For over a decade, Halifax International Security Forum’s agenda has gained a reputation as a prescient guide to key global…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 17 June 2019 WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum is proud to present the 2019 class of the Halifax Peace With Women Fellowship: Colonel Doctor Lale Bartoschek, German Air Force Captain Rachel Durbin, Royal Australian Navy Brigadier General Lisa Ferris, New Zealand Army Commodore Solveig Krey, Royal Norwegian Navy Colonel Solène Le…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 17 January 2019 WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum announced today that the 2019 Forum will take place on November 22-24 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Hosted by Canada’s Minister of National Defence, and featuring defense ministers and senior military leaders from democratic nations as well as a bipartisan Congressional Delegation from the United States,…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 15, 2019 WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum is proud to announce the opening of the Call for Applications for the 2019 Halifax Peace With Women Fellowship. The Fellowship is a 3-week executive tour for senior active-duty female military officers that will take place in late October and November of…

Brussels has made clear its belief that Brexit was a mistake. But at this point, a clean break is probably for the best. With barely a mistake having gone unmade in British Prime Minister Theresa May’s handling of Brexit, it is perhaps understandable that many observers have allowed their lurid fascination with the chaos in…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Halifax, Nova Scotia – Halifax International Security Forum and Ipsos released this year’s Threat Index, a survey of citizens from 27 countries to gauge their perceptions of global affairs. “Political pundits and commentators make much these days of the apparent disconnect between the so-called elites and the wider public,” said Peter Van Praagh, President…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA — The Delegation from the U.S. Congress to the 2018 Halifax International Security Forum will hold a media availability at the conclusion of the second day of the Forum. Details are, as follows: Saturday, 17 November 2018 6:15 PM (AST) The Westin Nova Scotian Harbour Room A 1181 Hollis Street…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Halifax, Nova Scotia – Cindy McCain presented the inaugural John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service today to the people of Lesbos, Greece for their heroic support of refugees fleeing the Middle East and Africa. The prize was presented at the tenth annual Halifax International Security Forum – an event that Senator McCain…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Halifax, Canada – Peter Van Praagh, President of Halifax International Security Forum, today opened the 10th anniversary Forum by issuing a stark challenge to the assembled dignitaries from over 70 countries. “It is not enough to condemn populists as if they have arisen out of a vacuum. The challenge is to properly identify those issues…

* Check Against Delivery * Senator John McCain was an American Hero for the World. It was our honor to welcome him here to Halifax International Security Forum every year. We will miss him very much. This year, our honor is to welcome Mrs. Cindy McCain, who has been with us here before, and who…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Halifax, NS – Halifax International Security Forum will recognize its inaugural class of the Peace With Women Fellowship at a gala dinner being held in the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax. This year’s exemplary group of fellows are: Group Captain Jules Adams, Royal Australian Air Force Brigadier General Ingrid…

Halifax, Nova Scotia — As part of its important community outreach in Nova Scotia, Halifax International Security Forum will be holding a public panel discussion on international affairs tonight at Saint Mary’s University. The discussion takes place the day before the Halifax International Security Forum begins its three-day annual conference at the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel.…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, CANADA — Halifax International Security Forum will hold an opening news conference on Friday, November 16th, with Forum President Peter Van Praagh and Canada’s Minister of National Defence, The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan. Details are, as follows: Friday, 16 November 2018 11:00 AM (AST) The Westin Nova Scotian Harbour Room A 1181…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HALIFAX, CANADA — Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, released the agenda for its November 16-18 gathering. The Forum is hosted by The Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Canada’s Minister of National Defence. A copy of the complete agenda can be found here. Highlights include: A full-length public interview with…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum announces the delegation from the United States Congress for the 2018 Forum in Halifax Nova Scotia, to be held November 16-18. The bipartisan delegation will be jointly led by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC). Senator Shaheen is co-chair of the newly re-established…

Halifax International Security Forum Announces Participation of Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, United States, and Other Top Military Leaders at 2018 Forum FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC – General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, United States, will be attending this year’s Halifax International Security…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 1, 2018 WASHINGTON, DC – Mrs. Cindy McCain, wife of the late Senator John S. McCain, today announced the winner of the inaugural John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service. The first recipient of the annual Prize will be the People of the island of Lesbos, Greece for their heroic…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 9, 2018 WASHINGTON, DC–Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, announces the release of its topical agenda of the 10th annual meeting in Halifax, Nova Scotia, November 16-18. See the agenda here. For the past 10 years, Halifax International Security Forum’s agenda has gained a reputation…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 4, 2018 WASHINGTON, DC–Halifax International Security Forum is proud to present the inaugural class of the Halifax Peace With Women Fellowship: Group Captain Jules Adams, Royal Australian Air Force Brigadier General Ingrid Gjerde, Norwegian Army Colonel Katherine Graef, United States Army Colonel Rose King, New Zealand Army Colonel Vebhije Kuti, Albanian…

Senator John McCain declares, “We [the United States] will not torture people,” on a panel at the November 2016 Halifax International Security Forum   August 27, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum joins the millions of individuals in the United States and around the world who mourn the passing of…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 15 January 2018 WASHINGTON, DC–Halifax International Security Forum is proud to announce the opening of the Call for Applications for the Halifax Peace With Women Fellowship. The Fellowship is a new leadership program organized as a 3-week executive tour for senior active-duty female military officers. The Fellowship will take place in late…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12 January 2018 WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum announced today that the 10th annual Halifax International Security Forum will take place on November 16-18, 2018 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. “The 2018 Forum takes place 100 years after the end of World War I,” said Peter Van Praagh, President of Halifax International Security Forum.…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 19 November 2017 Halifax, Nova Scotia — Halifax International Security Forum and the Wilson Center Canada Institute are pleased to announce that they will jointly host the Halifax Chats in Washington D.C. in 2018. The Halifax Chats are a series of four in depth public conversations that will bring American and Canadian…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 18 November 2017 Halifax, Nova Scotia —  Halifax International Security Forum is proud to present an exciting new initiative designed to enhance the role of women in international security. Jonathan Weisstub, Chairman of the Board of the Halifax International Security Forum, today announced the Halifax Peace with Women Fellowship. This 3-week program…

Opening Speech of 2017 Halifax International Security Forum Peter Van Praagh, President Halifax, Nova Scotia 17 November 2017 *Check Against Delivery* Your excellencies, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of the Congressional Delegation, Distinguished Officers, Ladies and Gentlemen, colleagues, and friends. On behalf of everybody who has worked to put this gathering together for you, welcome…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 18 November 2017 Halifax, Nova Scotia — Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defence conference, today established a new prize honouring outstanding courage and leadership in public service. “The Forum has always stood for the values of strong and courageous leadership in defence of freedom and democracy,” said…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 17 November 2017 HALIFAX, NS – Halifax International Security Forum announced today that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will receive its prestigious Builder Award during a gala celebration at Pier 21 tonight. “The Builder Award recognizes individuals or groups who have been instrumental to the success of the Forum and are…

This eighth wave of Ipsos’s annual Global Poll for the Halifax Security Forum shows a strong, consistent, and growing (up 7% since 2016) consensus among global citizens that free trade benefits their local economy. This includes citizens in all three countries involved in the NAFTA negotiations. Support for the local economic benefits of free trade…

“The senior envoy for northern Iraq’s Kurds – who have spent years honing their military skills under the tutelage of Canadian special forces – is calling on the Trudeau government to intervene in a growing conflict between the ethnically distinct minority and Baghdad. Falah Mustafa Bakir visits Canada on Friday for the annual Halifax International…

“A funny thing happened along the way to the forum. Halifax gradually became a place where some of the world’s top thinkers and doers get together to share vital ideas and information. “There is sort of an unencumbered sentiment (that) comes over people when they arrive in Halifax,” Peter MacKay, the former Canadian defence minister,…

Halifax, Nova Scotia — Halifax International Security Forum will be giving students from Dalhousie and Saint Mary’s University a preview of this year’s plenaries with a special public panel discussion on international affairs. “The goal of the Forum is to enhance strategic cooperation among the world’s democracies. We do that by starting conversations between decision-makers…

CTV Atlantic (Video): Peter Van Praagh on Security Forum

“NATO’s chief said Wednesday he is certain the alliance will have sufficient forces to fulfill its training mission in Afghanistan after months of lobbying allies to increase troop contributions… Stoltenberg said the troops won’t conduct combat operations but help to train and assist the Afghan security forces, notably to train special forces and build up…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 15, 2017 HALIFAX, NS — Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, released the agenda of its plenaries and panel discussions that will be taking place this weekend from November 17-19.  The Forum is hosted by Canada’s Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Harjit Sajjan. A…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 30, 2017 WASHINGTON, DC–Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, announces the release of its topical agenda for this year’s Forum in Halifax, Nova Scotia, November 17-19. For the agenda, click here. “The Halifax International Security Forum’s annual agenda is specifically designed to advance the cause…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Canadian Minister of National Defence Harjit S. Sajjan released Canada’s new defence policy yesterday, entitled Strong, Secure, Engaged. This policy announcement is the culmination of more than a year’s worth of consultation with domestic and international defence and security experts, as well as Canadians themselves. Minister Sajjan issued the following statement upon…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 7, 2017 WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum announced today that the 9th annual Halifax International Security Forum will take place November 17-19, 2017 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The annual Forum brings together individuals who are on the ground facing consequential local threats, writers who challenge and influence the world’s…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 20 November 2016 HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA – President of the Halifax International Security Forum, Peter Van Praagh, joined Canadian Minister of National Defence, The Hon. Harjit Sajjan, to officially close the 8th annual Forum this afternoon in Halifax, Nova Scotia. “Thanks to Minister Sajjan and the continued support of the Government of…

“Top-ranking military officers are warning that climate change could severely impact global security as sea levels rise and prolonged droughts grip poorer nations. Speaking at the Halifax International Security Forum on Saturday, Dutch General Tom Middendorp warned that climate change is fuelling war worldwide.” Halifax Chronicle Herald: Generals sound alarm over climate change Fram Dinshaw

“Senate Armed Services Chairman John McCain, R-Ariz., reiterated his plan for Syria at the Halifax International Security Forum Saturday, which includes establishing a no-fly zone and putting US boots on the ground at a time when US President-elect Donald Trump’s plan remains unknown or non-existent.” Defense News: McCain Reiterates Plan For Syria As Trump Plan…

“Views differed sharply on the impact of Donald Trump’s presidency on issues from trade to historic alliances during the second day of an international gathering seized by what-if scenarios regarding the incoming U.S. administration. The Halifax International Security Forum is the first major international gathering of policy analysts, American and foreign politicians, and defence ministers since Trump won the…

“Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) pushed back on President-elect Donald Trump’s past praise for waterboarding Saturday, maintaining that the U.S. wouldn’t use it as an interrogation tactic. ‘I don’t give a damn what the president of the United States wants to do … we will not waterboard,’ McCain said at the Halifax International Security Forum, according…

“This equilibrium, if it is ruined, then it could actually lead to drastic consequences in other parts of the world,” Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze, the vice prime minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine, told Defense News in an interview Saturday at the Halifax International Security Forum.” Defense News: Ukraine Vice PM: Less US Support Dangerous…

“Republican Sen. John McCain issued a fiery warning to President-elect Donald Trump on the subject of torture Saturday. “I don’t give a damn what the president of the United States wants to do. We will not waterboard,” McCain told an audience at the annual Halifax International Security Forum. ‘We will not torture people … It…

“Political and military leaders are gathering in Halifax today for the start of an international foreign affairs and defence conference. Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan will open the annual three-day forum that bills itself as a gathering of democratic leaders committed to global security and prosperity.” Global News: Global defence experts, politicians gather for Halifax International…

“National security leaders from the United States and around the globe will soon convene in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for the 8th annual Halifax International Security Forum. The purpose of the forum is to strengthen strategic cooperation among democracies, said Peter Van Praagh, the forum’s president.” National Defense: Halifax International Security Forum Kicks Off Yasmin Tadjdeh

‘“We witness different kind of statements during election periods [that] are not materialized after,” Gen. Pavel, chair of NATO’s military committee, said in an interview at the Halifax International Security Forum, an annual gathering of 70 countries on foreign affairs and defence matters.” Globe and Mail: NATO ‘eagerly waiting’ to hear from Trump and his team,…

“The defence secretary of the United Kingdom and his Canadian counterpart kicked off an international security conference in Halifax today with reassurances they expect key military alliances will endure as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take power.” Toronto Star: Trump’s NATO commentary ‘nothing new,’ U.K. defence leader says Michael Tutton

“On whether Trump’s relationship with the Kremlin is materially hurting the alliance, Rose Goettemoeller, who has held her post for just five weeks, said at the Halifax International Security Forum Friday, “I think it’s driving the alliance closer together … and really making countries focus on this necessity of further expenditure on defense.”’ Defense News: Halifax…

“’I think one of the reasons why it would be good to have him is that he has recent combat experience in both theaters (Iraq and Afghanistan). So he really understands complex situations on the ground,” McCain told The Daily Beast, on the sidelines of the Halifax International Security Forum.” Daily Beast: General Who Thinks ‘It’s…

“HAPPENING TODAY — HALIFAX SECURITY FORUM: The annual Halifax International Security Forum kicks off today in one of Morning D’s favorite parts of Canada. Among the bold-faced names headed north for the meetings that runs through the weekend: Sens. McCain, Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Coons (D-Del.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), retired Gen. John Allen and James…

“The Defence Secretary, who will deliver a keynote speech at the Halifax International Security Forum that opens on Friday, says he expects a significant gap between Mr. Trump’s rhetoric to date and what the president-elect will actually do once in office. The message from London is: Give the new guy some time.” Globe and Mail: Chance…

“Hillary Clinton’s recent running mate Tim Kaine is being honoured at the upcoming International Security Forum in Halifax just 11 days after they lost to Donald Trump in the U.S presidential election.” Halifax Chronicle Herald: Tim Kaine to be honoured in Halifax Chronicle Herald Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 17 November 2016 HALIFAX, NS – Halifax International Security Forum announced today that Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) will receive its prestigious Builder Award during the gala dinner at Pier 21 on Friday, November 19th. “The Builder Award recognizes individuals who have been instrumental to the success of the Forum and are tireless…

“No American president would dare renege on NATO treaty commitments, a top general said late Wednesday, responding to President-elect Donald Trump‘s suggestion that he may not defend fellow NATO members under attack.” Politico: Czech General to Trump: ‘NATO’ is as Relevant as Ever Esther King

“A senior Ukrainian government official is calling on Canada and European allies to help keep a united Western front against Russian aggression from crumbling in the wake of the election of Donald Trump, who has repeatedly expressed admiration for Vladimir Putin.” Globe and Mail: Ukraine Seeks Support Against Western Aggression Steven Chase

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 16 November 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, and the first major meeting of top political and military leaders after the 2016 US elections, today released a full list of participants and the agenda for this year’s Forum. Hosted by Canada’s Minister…

“Janice Stein, a program advisor at the Forum, says the delegates coming from all over the world will all be talking about one thing: Trump.” Metro Halifax: Donald Trump will be ‘top of mind’ at Halifax International Security Forum Zane Woodford

“Political heavyweights including Republican senator John McCain and Hillary Clinton’s recent running mate Timothy Kaine are due in Halifax for this year’s International Security Forum.” Halifax Chronicle Herald: McCain, Kaine Among Security Forum Delegates Fram Dinshaw  

“A great realignment is taking place. Change must be embraced by those elite democrats whose immediate instinct is to fear it. If not, it will become a tyrant’s revolution, not ours.” Rethinking democracy Robin Shepherd

“A quarter-century ago, basking in the glow of its Cold War victory, America was faced with the question of reshaping its global role in a world no longer divided by an Iron Curtain. Neither the George H.W. Bush nor Bill Clinton administrations came up with a comprehensive new strategy, yet the debates of the time…

“In Syria and Iraq, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant is losing territory fast. The organization barely now controls 40 per cent of the 60,000 square kilometres it occupied in the region in October 2014. The disintegration of the caliphate installed on the land of the Sham — the old name for Syria…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 11, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC–Halifax International Security Forum, North America’s leading foreign affairs and defense conference, announces the release of its topical agenda for this year’s gathering in Halifax, Nova Scotia, November 18-20. For the agenda click here. The Halifax International Security Forum’s annual agenda has earned a global reputation for identifying…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 28, 2016 Washington, DC—Senator Tim Kaine, Co-Chair of the Halifax International Security Forum’s annual Congressional Delegation, was confirmed Wednesday as the Democratic Party’s nominee for Vice President of the United States. Mr. Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum, today issued the following statement upon Senator Tim Kaine’s…

Peter Van Praagh March 14, 2016 published in The Chronicle Herald WASHINGTON, D.C. — Watching the bright red and white wave of Canadian flags that decorated this city’s downtown boulevards in honour of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s state visit last week was an exceptional experience. Now that the flags and decorations have been taken down,…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 13, 2016 WASHINGTON, DC – Halifax International Security Forum announced today that the 8th Halifax International Security Forum will take place November 18-20, 2016 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The annual Forum brings together democratic security leaders from more than 60 countries to address the most pressing international security challenges. “As local…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 22nd 2015 (Halifax, Nova Scotia) – The Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Canadian Minister of National Defence, and Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum, will participate in a press conference to close the 7th annual Halifax International Security Forum. DATE: Sunday, November 22nd, 2015 TIME: 2:30PM (Atlantic) LOCATION: Harbour…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 22, 2015 Halifax, Nova Scotia – President of the Halifax International Security Forum, Peter Van Praagh, was joined by Canadian Minister of National Defence, The Hon. Harjit Sajjan, to officially close the 7th annual Forum this afternoon in Halifax, Nova Scotia. “I thank Minister Harjit Sajjan and all of our panelists…

“At the sidelines of the Halifax International Security Forum, Defense Minister Zoran Jolevski held Saturday meetings with Canadian, Lithuanian, Albanian, and Dutch counterparts…” MACEDONIAN INFORMATION AGENCY: Jolevski holds meetings at sidelines of Halifax forum

“Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan is asking Canadians to “remain vigilant” and trust in the country’s security forces after a Turkish Airlines flight made an emergency landing in Halifax following a bomb threat Saturday night. Speaking at a press conference from the Halifax International Security Forum Sunday afternoon, Sajjan said Canadians should stay alert in the wake…

“Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan is suggesting CF-18 fighter jets would make little difference in the war against the Islamic State if Canada doesn’t focus completely on its training mission in Iraq. Sajjan fielded more questions today at the Halifax International Security Forum about the Liberal government’s plans to withdraw the fighter jets…” CTV: Harjit Sajjan says Canada’s…

“Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan says the quick response of officials in Canada to several bomb threats that caused three planes to be searched in Halifax this week shows how well the country and its partners are able to respond to emerging security incidents. Speaking in Halifax at the conclusion of a three-day international security conference, Sajjan said despite the geographic separation…

“CNN analyst and former hostage David Rohde: Experts at security summit agree the only way to defeat ISIS is to destroy the idea of it. The question is how…” CNN: VIDEO CNN analyst: No consensus on how to defeat ISIS

“The Liberal government’s plan to resettle thousands of Syrian refugees by the new year is one way that Canada is contributing to the fight against the Islamic State, Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan said Friday.”… “Sajjan was responding to questions about a new poll suggesting just over half of Canadians didn’t support the plan to resettle…

“A senior American security official has suggested it remains to be seen whether China will honour an agreement reached this year on state-sponsored cyberattacks on private businesses…” CTV NEWS: Ending state-sponsored cyberattacks in China’s best interests: U.S. official The Canadian Press

“This weekend’s Halifax International Security Forum has drawn leading security experts from more than 60 countries across the globe, including Canada’s Minister of Veteran Affairs Kent Hehr, Minister of National Defence Harjit Singh Sajjan and Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Jonathan Vance. Peter Van Praagh, president of the forum, told CTV News Channel that discussions revolving…

“Combatting the use of social media as a communication, recruiting and fundraising tool in the war against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria is a hot topic at this weekend’s Halifax International Security Forum.” CBC NEWS: ISIS’s social media use examined at Halifax International Security Forum

“U.S. senators attending a global security meeting in Halifax say they should be able to work out a strategy with Canada as the new Liberal government moves forward with plans to halt aerial bombing of ISIS in the Mideast…” CBC NEWS:  Canada’s ISIS fight stance understood by U.S. senators at Halifax meeting

“Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy is participating in an international security forum in Canada where he’ll be talking with U.S. allies about efforts to defeat the Islamic State group. “Murphy is expected to discuss his push to tighten immigration laws, particularly the visa waiver program…argues under current regulations, foreign visitors from any of the 38 participating countries…

“The Canadian government’s decision to increase training for troops on the ground in the fight against ISIS is a key requirement in defeating the terrorist organization, according to American senators at the Halifax International Security Forum…” HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD: U.S. senators in Halifax welcome Canadian pledge to train Iraqi troops Michael Gorman

“As the situation in Syria grinds on and members of the global community consider increasing military action to fight the Islamic State group, a top US Senator today defended the US reluctance for large-scale military intervention…” DEFENSE NEWS: Kaine: ‘Scar Tissue’ from Iraq, Afghanistan Impacts Global Strategy Aaron Mehta

“The Pentagon expects the new Canadian government to allow Lockheed Martin Corp’s F-35 fighter aircraft to compete to replace Canada’s aging CF-18 jets, despite the Liberal Party’s stated opposition to the planes, U.S. Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work said on Saturday…” REUTERS: U.S. expects F-35 to be part of Canada’s next jet competition Phil Stewart

“Speaking at Nova Scotia forum with Tzipi Livni, US Deputy Secretary of Defense says Israeli strike in 2007 was a good thing…” ISRAEL NATIONAL NEWS: US Official: Israel was right to hit Syrian nuclear facility Yaakov Levi

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20th 2015 (Halifax, Nova Scotia) – The Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Canadian Minister of National Defence and Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum, will participate in a press conference to open the 7th annual Halifax International Security Forum. DATE: Friday November 20th, 2015 TIME: 12:15PM (Atlantic) LOCATION: Harbour…

“Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work plans to press Canada’s defense chief on Friday to explain how the new Liberal Party government led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau intends to respond to a range of defense challenges – and whether it will follow through on Trudeau’s campaign pledge to withdraw from the F-35 program…” POLITICO: Top Pentagon…

“We live in disruptive times. Russia annexes Crimea and invades Ukraine. The Islamic State conquers a large swath of territory that crosses the old border between Iraq and Syria, and the rump government of Bashir Al-Assad bombs its own people…” NATIONAL POST: Janice Gross Stein: The order that held dysfunctional Middle East states together is over Janice…

“A common lament is that our leaders neglect strategy, leaving policy uncertain and inchoate…” NATIONAL POST: Sir Lawrence Freedman: Discouraging Foreign Policy Strategy Aside, One Should Not Underestimate the West Sir Lawrence Freedman

“On Oct. 10, 2015, two suicide bombers attacked civilians at the heart of Ankara that were gathered to rally for peace. This cowardly terrorist attack by the Islamic State (ISIL) claimed the lives of more than 100 innocent Turkish citizens, the worst terrorist attack in Turkish history…” NATIONAL POST: Abdullah Gül ISIL Must Not Succeed Anymore. We Must…

“The Pentagon’s No. 2 will sound out Canada’s new government on Friday on its defense plans following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s election on promises to scrap purchases of F-35 jets and pull Canadian aircraft from strikes on Islamic State…” THE ECONOMIC TIMES: US Military to Sound Out Canada’s New Government on Jets, Iraq Phil Stewart

“The Paris attacks will focus the world’s attention on how to defeat the Islamic State group, President Barack Obama’s former special envoy to the global coalition to counter IS said Wednesday. But retired Gen. John Allen said the U.S. doesn’t need to deploy a significant number of ground troops to do it…” WASHINGTON POST: Ex-Envoy…

“In Canada Khidasheli will address annual Halifax International Security Forum on November 20. She said that she will meet representatives of Canada’s new government on the sideline of the forum, including with Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan…” AZERI PRESS AGENCY: Georgian Defense Minister Leaves for Two-Week Foreign Trip

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 18, 2015 HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM RELEASES AGENDA Annual Global Meeting Will Take Terrorist Threat Head-On HALIFAX, NS—The Halifax International Security Forum released the agenda today for this year’s Forum to be held November 20-22 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The mix of on-the-record plenary sessions and smaller, off-the-record discussions address the…

“At a critical moment for the international security conversation, some of the world’s foremost security experts are about to gather on Canada’s east coast…” EMBASSY: Paris aftermath to permeate high-profile Halifax meeting Marie-Danielle Smith

“There aren’t a lot of game-changing moments in international affairs, says Peter Van Praagh. But the ISIS terrorist attacks on Paris last weekend, like the 9-11 attacks on New York and Washington in 2001, fall into that rare category…” HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD: EDITORIAL: Security, Solidarity Emerging After Paris

“Paris will be a hot topic of conversations this weekend when international government and military officials meet with academic and corporate leaders at the annual Halifax International Security Forum…” THE COAST: Paris to Weigh Heavily on Halifax International Security Forum Jacob Boon

“The attacks in Paris and the plight of Syrian refugees expected to arrive in the Maritimes will be a main topic of discussion at the Halifax International Security Forum this weekend…” CTV ATLANTIC: Halifax International Security Forum to Focus on Paris Attacks, Refugees Ron Shaw

“Three hundred delegates from 60 countries will be in Nova Scotia tomorrow attending the seventh annual Halifax International Security Forum. Haligonians can rightly be proud that what started in 2009 has turned into one of the world’s most significant and influential gatherings of democratic defence leaders committed to global security and prosperity…” HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD: Clearing…

“Top security experts from around the world will be in Halifax this week for their first major meeting since the terrorist attacks in Paris…” GLOBAL NEWS: Panel to Discuss Security Issues in Wake of Paris Attacks

“The horrific attacks in Paris on Friday November 13 have shocked the world. The situation will also surely dominate and modify the discussion previously planned for  next week’s Halifax International Security Forum (November 20 to 22, 2015), where officials, military and security agencies will gather together to exchange ideas on how nations can collectively address…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 16 November 2015 WASHINGTON, DC – Friday’s terrorist attacks in Paris will be front-and-center as international defense and security leaders from around the world meet this weekend for the Halifax International Security Forum. Canada’s new Minister of National Defence, The Honourable Harjit Singh Sajjan, will be hosting high-ranking delegates from 60 countries…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NOVEMBER 4, 2015 Washington, DC – The Halifax International Security Forum welcomes the cabinet of Canada’s new government, which was sworn in today by Governor General David Johnston. “We applaud Prime Minister Trudeau for appointing such a strong and diverse team of leaders to cabinet,” said Peter Van Praagh, President of Halifax…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 20, 2015 Washington, DC—Halifax International Security Forum today congratulated Canada’s new Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal Party of Canada on winning Monday’s federal general election. “We applaud Mr. Trudeau and his team for their outstanding campaign,” said Peter Van Praagh, President of Halifax International Security Forum. “And we look…

Annual Global Meeting to Focus on Threats to Democracy FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 30, 2015 Washington, DC—Halifax International Security Forum today released the draft Topical Agenda for this year’s Forum to be held November 20-22 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The mix of on-the-record plenary sessions and smaller, off-the-record sessions covers a wide range of security…

Halifax International Security Forum and The McCain Institute Host Georgian Defense Minister, H.E. Tinatin Khidasheli August 19, 2015 WASHINGTON, DC—Halifax International Security Forum and The McCain Institute for International Leadership today welcomed H.E. Tinatin Khidasheli, Minister of Defense of Georgia, for a small, off-the-record conversation, held at the office of the Halifax International Security Forum.…

July 24, 2015 WASHINGTON, DC—Halifax International Security Forum was pleased to host General John F. Kelly, Commander of the United States Southern Command, on Thursday, July 23 for a private, off-the-record briefing with members of the Halifax Agenda Working Group. The discussion marked the beginning of a series of exclusive briefings by Halifax International Security…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 29, 2015 WASHINGTON, DC – Mr. Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum, today issued the following statement regarding the Honourable Peter MacKay’s announcement on Friday, May 29, 2015 that he would not seek reelection. “Halifax International Security Forum thanks the Honourable Peter MacKay for his vision for…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 9, 2015 WASHINGTON, DC – Mr. Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum, today issued the following statement on changes to the Canadian cabinet: “The Halifax International Security Forum and the Canadian government, through the Department of National Defence and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, have forged a…

February 2, 2015 WASHINGTON, DC – The 2015 Halifax International Security Forum will take place November 20-22 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Now in its seventh year, the annual Forum features democratic leaders and thinkers who gather to address the most pressing international security challenges. “We are proud that at the end of each calendar year,…

Euronews: “McCain blasts Europe’s approach to Ukraine conflict ‘a joke’” Interview by Isabelle Kumar Maverick is often the term used to describe American Senator John McCain, the famously straight- talking, no-nonsense politician who ran for the US Presidency in 2008, losing out to Barack Obama. Today, he is still a political force to be reckoned…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 23 NOVEMBER 2014 HALIFAX, NS –The 2014 Halifax International Security Forum has united individuals who are on the ground facing consequential local threats, writers who challenge and influence the world’s thinking on security, and decision-makers who make the tough choices. These individuals completed a successful conference today and set the security agenda…

November 22, 2014, Halifax, NS – Statement by Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum, about ISIL’s distribution of propaganda to Forum participants over social media: “ISIS is using our Forum’s hashtag, #HISF2014, to circulate a propaganda video featuring a British captive, John Cantlie. We understand that ISIL is also sending messages…

“Politics End In Halifax As Democratic and GOP Senators Seek Common Ground on National Security” by Tim Mak It’s amazing what some fresh Nova Scotia air can do. Sens. John McCain and Tim Kaine led a congressional delegation to the Halifax International Security Forum in Canada this weekend, and something spectacular happened. The two senators…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 21 NOVEMBER 2014 WASHINGTON, DC –The world’s leading thinkers on security and international affairs are meeting at the Halifax International Security Forum in Halifax, Canada against the backdrop of serious global security issues which include efforts in Iraq, Russian activities in Eastern Ukraine, the proliferation of nuclear technologies, the spread of Ebola…

“Halifax International Security Forum: 3 things to watch” by Stephen Puddicombe 1. ISIS (also known as ISIL) and the future of the Arab world. Retired general John Allen, the U.S. Department of State’s presidential envoy for the global coalition against ISIL, will lead the discussion; 2. Hong Kong, China: One city, two visions. 3. Ukraine,…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 20 November 2014 Washington, DC – On the eve of the 6th annual Forum taking place from 21 – 23 November in Halifax, Canada, the Halifax International Security Forum and Ipsos, the leading global market and opinion research firm, are releasing new findings about global views of today’s crises. The views from…

“EDITORIAL: Halifax Security Forum worthy investment” by Editorial Board Bringing together senior officials from mostly democratic nations around the world to freely discuss problems, share knowledge and debate possible responses to global security challenges, from Ukraine to the Middle East, is clearly a good idea. In fact, if an event like this didn’t already exist,…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 19 NOVEMBER 2014 WASHINGTON, DC – The sixth annual Halifax International Security Forum is taking place in Halifax, Canada from November 21st – 23rd, 2014. The largest US congressional delegation to set foot in Canada, led by Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), as well as international security leaders from…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 14 NOVEMBER 2014 WASHINGTON, DC — The largest US congressional delegation to set foot in Canada, led by Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), and international security leaders from the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East will be hosted by Rob Nicholson, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, and Peter…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 22, 2014 WASHINGTON, DC – Peter Van Praagh, President of the Halifax International Security Forum, today made the following statement regarding attacks in the Canadian capital: “I am saddened and angered by reports out of Ottawa, Canada today that its national parliament and war memorial were intentionally attacked.” “The terrorist attacks…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 20 October 2014 WASHINGTON, DC – The Halifax International Security Forum today released the draft Topical Agenda for this year’s event that will be held November 21 – 23 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. “This agenda, for the 2014 Halifax International Security Forum, reflects the severe challenges that democratic nations are facing this…

January 13, 2014 WASHINGTON, DC – The 2014 Halifax International Security Forum will take place November 21-23 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Now in its sixth year, the annual Forum features democratic leaders and thinkers who gather to address the most pressing international security challenges. “We are proud that leaders from around the world meet at…

THIS YEAR’S FORUM IS NOW COMPLETE BUT THE HALIFAX CONVERSATION CONTINUES 24 November 2013 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Halifax, NS – Today marks the successful conclusion of engaging discussions amongst democratic thinkers at the 2013 Halifax International Security Forum. For the past three days, democratic leaders, business leaders, military strategists, security experts and members of the…

300 PARTICIPANTS FROM AROUND THE WORLD BEGIN THE ANNUAL CONVERSATION ON INTERNATIONAL PEACE AND SECURITY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 22 November 2013 HALIFAX, NS – Today, the most prolific thinkers on international security, decision-makers, military experts and writers joined together in Halifax, Canada to open the fifth annual Halifax International Security Forum, one of the most…

CANADIAN GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT RUNS THROUGH 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 21 November 2013 HALIFAX, NS – Today, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada…

HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM RELEASES POLL RESULTS ON THE EVE OF THE FIFTH ANNUAL SECURITY CONFERENCE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 21 November 2013 WASHINGTON, DC – Citizens surveyed from 24 countries overwhelmingly believe their countries should focus less on the world and more on problems at home, according to a poll released today by the Halifax…

A GLOBAL CONVERSATION: LEADERS OF THE 2013 HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 15 November 2013 Washington, DC – Democratic leaders from around the world, including US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, a large US congressional delegation led by Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), a Canadian delegation that includes Minister Rob…

FOUR CANADIAN MINISTERS LEAD THE CONVERSATION AT THE HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 15 November 2013 Washington, DC – The Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the Honourable John Baird, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister…

MINISTER NICHOLSON AND SECRETARY HAGEL LEAD THE CONVERSATION AT THE FIFTH ANNUAL HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 5 November 2013 Washington, DC – The Honourable Rob Nicholson, Canadian Minister of National Defence, will host American Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, at the fifth annual Halifax International Security Forum. Secretary Hagel is delivering the…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2 October 2013 WASHINGTON, DC – The Halifax International Security Forum today released the draft Topical Agenda for this year’s event that will be held November 22 – 24 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. “This agenda, for the fifth annual Halifax International Security Forum, reflects the challenges that democratic nations are facing this…

STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM REGARDING CHANGES TO THE CANADIAN CABINET FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 15 July 2013 WASHINGTON, DC – Mr. Peter Van Praagh, the President of the Halifax International Security Forum, today issued the following statement on changes to the Canadian cabinet: “The Halifax International Security Forum and the…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESIDENT OF HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FORUM DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS TO THE PERMANENT JOINT BOARD ON DEFENSE June 26, 2013 WASHINGTON, DC – Peter Van Praagh, the President of Halifax International Security Forum, delivered the keynote address in Washington Monday night to members of the Permanent Joint Board on Defense (PJBD), the highest-level…

Leaders and experts will discuss the US presidential election, Syria, China, and more—full conference streamed live HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, November 15, 2012—Leaders from more than 50 countries will gather November 16-18 at the Halifax International Security Forum to discuss pressing security issues, including the impact of the American presidential election on the rest of the…

Government of Canada, MEG Energy and the Halifax International Security Forum Launch Halifax Canada Club FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 14, 2012 Washington, DC—The Halifax International Security Forum together with the Government of Canada and MEG Energy today announced the creation of a new public-private partnership, the Halifax Canada Club, to ensure that world leaders continue their work…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 8, 2012 Minister Peter MacKay Announces Dates for Halifax International Security Forum: November 16-18 in Halifax WASHINGTON, DC—The fourth Halifax International Security Forum will take place November 16-18, 2012 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The 2012 Halifax International Security Forum will once again bring together informed and engaged security leaders from more…

Complex Threats, Budget Cuts Require Democratic Nations to Work Together in New Ways HALIFAX, Nova Scotia—November 20, 2011—Leaders from more than 40 countries concluded three days of discussions at the Halifax International Security Forum, which brought together more than 300 decision-makers and experts to address dozens of topics on the international agenda. Participants discussed the…

Halifax International Security Forum to be streamed live: Leaders will discuss the Arab Spring, global financial crisis, future of NATO and more HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, November 17, 2011—Leaders from more than 40 countries will gather this week at the Halifax International Security Forum to discuss what’s next in “Arab Spring” nations, implications of the global…

WASHINGTON, November 7, 2011—Halifax International Security Forum announced today that U.S. Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Mark Udall (D-CO) will join the Honourable Peter MacKay, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, and other thoughtful and engaged leaders who deal with defense and security issues at Halifax International Security Forum to be held November 18-20, 2011, in…