Louis L. Bono, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Bern, visited the University of Liechtenstein. In a panel discussion, he answered questions from students across a range of disciplines and talked with them about the role of the United States in a changing world.

The students had prepared thoroughly and brought a wide range of questions with them. They discussed the future of the Pax Americana, the consequences of demographic change, the impact of artificial intelligence on the world of work and the rise of populist parties in Europe. Bono responded candidly and shared insights from his long diplomatic career.

That career provided plenty to talk about: Bono has served, among other postings, at the National Security Council in Washington, the Holy See, the United Nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna, as well as in Berlin, Brussels and Iraq. Most recently, he worked as Senior Advisor for negotiations in the Caucasus. Before joining the diplomatic service, he practised law in New York.

An appeal to the next generation

In closing, Bono made a clear appeal to the students: they are the future. It is up to them to tackle the challenges discussed and to take on responsibility.

The University of Liechtenstein would like to thank Louis L. Bono and the US Embassy in Bern for the visit and the inspiring exchange.