The power of social networks has changed diplomacy forever. In fact, recent events have shown how social media has changed the way in which communities relate and how social media users have created a global shift in diplomatic relations. In the spirit of this form of public diplomacy engagement, this event will bring individuals even closer to their international representatives. Leaders in both the public and private sectors are more effective when they have the means to engage and interact with one another and their respective constituencies directly (and immediately) via mechanisms, such as those social media offers.

The event will be a panel discussion on the best ways for diplomats to engage with the public through social media. We will involve people worldwide over various social media platforms to share these best practices with diplomats in Washington, D.C. and abroad.  Most of the discussion will be reserved for questions from the audience as well as questions submitted using the hashtag #SMWdiplomacy. The discussion will then be available streaming live online, sponsored by Google, Inc., allowing anyone in the world can ask questions instantly.

Don’t wait – start the conversation now! Tweet your digital diplomacy suggestions to @MeridianIntl or email them to socialmedia@meridian.org.

FEATURING :

H. E. Nathalie Cely Suárez
Ambassador of Ecuador to the United States

Bob Boorstin
Director of Public Policy, Google Inc.

Katie Harbath
Manager for Public Policy, Facebook

Ambassador Michael A. McFaul
Ambasssador of the U.S. to the Russian Federation
**Participating via Google+ Hangout**

MODERATED BY:

Richard Buangan
Director of Digital Engagement
U.S. Department of State

OPENING REMARKS BY:

Ambassador Stuart Holliday
President and CEO, Meridian International Center

VENUE INFORMATION:
The venue is Meridian House, the home of Meridian International Center and one of the most iconic venues in Washington, D.C. Designed by the architect of the Jefferson Memorial, John Russell Pope, Meridian House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While locals often associate the building with diplomatic royalty and glittering galas, it also houses an organization that brings the world together. Founded in 1960, Meridian International Center is a leading non-partisan, not-for-profit institution dedicated to strengthening international understanding and global engagement. Meridian works with the U.S. Department of State and embassies worldwide to create lasting international partnerships through leadership and cultural exchanges. Meridian also connects U.S. and foreign governments with the private sector to respond to global challenges and sustain impact. Over 66,000 International Visitors have walked these halls throughout the past 60 years, from biochemists to bloggers to break-dancers.