Karel Schwarzenberg, the Czech Republic’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, delivered a lecture on Sept. 19 about his lifetime experiences in office as a guest of the University’s School of International and Public Affairs.
His speech, which took place in the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum, covered topics across the board. By making references to China, Libya, Russia, and Japan, Schwarzenberg quickly showed the audience that his political depth was beyond affairs of just the Czech Republic.
The Embassy of the Czech Republic, Honorary Consulate General of the Czech Republic, the European Studies Program and the Miami-Florida European Union Center of Excellence co-sponsored the lecture.
The former senator is esteemed as an advocate for human rights and shared his insight with around 30 students and faculty in attendance. Schwarzenberg spoke candidly about the current wave of revolution taking place in the Middle East.
He believes much of today’s possibility for change stems from mobile innovation. The growing ways of communication worldwide have “produced another generation” he says.
“The world is changing; but we have to first change ourselves,” said Schwarzenberg.
In regards to democracy, he denoted various ways in which countries could be more diplomatic. One example, by having each economy open their markets to one another. This shift in international relations would more than likely strengthen the dynamics between nations, and promote positive interaction, not necessarily dependence.
Schwarzenberg shared many of his opinions, and outlook for the future as well. When speaking of China, he maintains the revolution which took place some 60 years ago has installed much change to their system, however, there are now substantial problems at hand. The lower class is still “helpless,” in the hand of the powerful.”
“Within the next decade–China will become the most powerful economic power of the world,” Schwarzenberg said, despite the “obvious misfortune” of the poorer class.
He also denoted that in nearby India, they are also on the rise, and it’s something worth watching.
In sharp contrast, Schwarzenberg stated that Russia however, in terms of economy, has become stagnant.
When asked by a student about Cuba, and whether any resolve will come of Castro’s regime, Schwarzenberg smiled, saying “In his age; there will be some biological resolution.”
His sense of humor was noticeable throughout the lecture; an attribute of which, the audience enjoyed.
Schwarzenberg ended much of his testimonies with witty comments, and at one point said “I hope I’m not boring you, yet.”
Gavin McClean, a senior political science major, enjoyed Karel Schwarzenberg’s lecture.
“He seemed very knowledgeable; and not just on affairs of The Czech Republic,” McClean said to Student Media.
Schwarzenberg kindly responded to everyone and anyone with comments and questions throughout the room.
Grace Taylor, a grad student majoring in higher education/administration said, “It’s important to have a representative from another country to come visit the school. It’s good to have reputable speakers talk about their experience.”
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