for35years,theopenforumhasenrichedamerican.docVIP

“For 35 years, the Open Forum has enriched American foreign policy by encouraging free expression and democratic debate. Today, more than ever, we need the Open Forums contributions of information, ideas, and insight as we grapple with issues having far-reaching implications for our world.” Colin L. Powell, Secretary of State, May 15, 2002 Secretary’s Open Forum (S/OF) 2001-2002 Annual Report October 21, 2002 Alan Lang Chairman Secretary’s Open Forum U.S. Department of State Harry S Truman Building 2201 C Street, NW, Room 3835 Washington, DC 20001 (202) 647-0532 (Telephone) (202) 647-4040 (Fax) /s/p/of/ “To permit freedom of expression is primarily for the benefit of the majority, because it protects criticism, and criticism leads to progress. ? President Harry S Truman, September 22, 1950, Message, U.S. House of Representatives Secretary’s Open Forum (S/OF) 2001-2002 Annual Report Contents Executive Summary………………………………………….…………3 Highlights 2001-2002….……………………………………………4-10 3. Acknowledgements…………………………………….…………..11-12 Attachment A: A Message from Secretary Powell Commemorating the 34th Anniversary of the Open Forum (1967-2001)…..13 Attachment B: A Message from Secretary Powell Commemorating the 35th Anniversary of the Open Forum (1967-2002)…..14 Attachment C: S/OF Suggestion Form………………………………..….15 Executive Summary During the 2001-2002 term, the Secretarys Open Forum (S/OF) has explored a wide range of foreign policy issues and leveraged resources for the Department’s broader public outreach efforts. Over the past year, S/OF has: Expanded internal and external support for the Forum’s Distinguished Lecture Series. These programs have featured presentations by senior diplomats, members of Congress, business executives, journalists, military officers, academic experts, religious leaders, and key stakeholders in the NGO community; Formed and strengthen