Event Details

When the US made its decision to withdraw its forces from Afghanistan, analysts recognized the potential for a Taliban takeover. The fall of Afghanistan's government was a known risk, but the speed with which it occurred surprised everyone. Why did it happen, and what happens next?


From a global perspective, the international impact may seem somewhat indirect. The end result of America's war in Afghanistan may lead other countries to rethink their approach to conflicts, especially those that are largely internal. The potential exists for the country to re-emerge as a safe haven for terrorist groups with worldwide ambitions. The global drug trade may get a boost. Ultimately, though, the biggest impact will be felt by the people of Afghanistan, and the ripple effects around the region could prove very disruptive.


Join a discussion with the ECN's South-east Asia Network Director, Dr William Thomas​, who served in Afghanistan as a military strategist in the US Air Force. We will examine the efforts to create a strong government and military there, and explore the potential domestic, regional, and global impact of the Taliban's takeover.

Agenda

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Presentation followed by questions and discussions

Speakers

  • William Thomas (Director, South-east Asia of The Economist Corporate Network)

    William Thomas

    Director, South-east Asia of The Economist Corporate Network

    William Thomas is the Director of the Economist Corporate Network in South-east Asia. An experienced advisor to senior business and government leaders, he helps organisations understand the strategic, operational, and talent implications of geopolitical changes.

    William holds a PhD in public policy from George Mason University in the US, as well as a degree in economics from the University of Virginia and an MBA. His academic research has centered on managing change in large, multinational organisations, with an emphasis on organisational culture.

    William is a retired United States Air Force lieutenant colonel, having spent much of his 21-year career as a strategic planner for complex operations such as humanitarian assistance and counterterrorism. He was Associate Professor of Political Science at the US Air Force Academy, and later taught at Georgetown University in Washington DC and as a Fulbright Scholar at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

    Having worked in Asia since 2012, William has focused on leadership development and organisational change as a consultant, leadership coach, and training facilitator.

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