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Michael McFaul
Communication
Gain insights into Russia's transition from communism to authoritarianism and understand the complexities of international relations with Michael McFaul, speaker, renowned academic, and diplomat.
Business Leader
Author
Michael McFaul is an American academic and diplomat known for his contributions to international relations, particularly in relation to Russia's transition from communism to authoritarianism. He earned a Bachelor's degree in International Relations and Slavic Languages and a Master's degree in Soviet and East European Studies from Stanford University in 1986, and a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in International Relations from Oxford University in 1991 as a Rhodes Scholar. McFaul joined the faculty at Stanford in 1995 and held various positions, including Director of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies and the Ken Olivier and Angela Nomellini Professor of International Studies in the Department of Political Science. He also serves as an International Affairs Analyst for NBC News and a contributing columnist for The Washington Post. In the Obama administration from 2009 to 2014, McFaul served as the Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Russian and Eurasian Affairs at the National Security Council, and later as the U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation. Throughout his career, McFaul has authored numerous books and articles on topics such as advancing democracy abroad, transitions to democracy, and the relationship between democracy and development. His work has been recognized by academics and policymakers alike.
Topics, sessions and talks
Join Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia and expert in international relations, for a keynote talk on advancing democracy abroad and the relationship between democracy and development. With his extensive experience in diplomacy and academia, mcfaul offers unique insights and actionable strategies for businesses and policymakers alike.
Michael brings unparalleled insights into international relations, especially regarding U.S.-Russia dynamics, drawing from his extensive academic background and firsthand diplomatic experience. Booking him as a speaker offers your team or business a unique opportunity to understand complex global political trends and their implications for international business and security. His engaging storytelling and deep analysis will not only educate but also inspire innovative thinking and strategic approaches in navigating today's interconnected world.
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frequently asked questions
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Email michael.mcfaul@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Michael's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
Michael McFaul structures his keynote talks around the intersection of academic research and first-hand diplomatic experience, drawing on his tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Russia and his scholarly work on democratic transitions to present policy-grounded analysis and actionable strategies.
Michael McFaul speaks on advancing democracy abroad, the relationship between democracy and development, and Russia's transition from communism to authoritarianism. He served as U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation under the Obama administration and holds a DPhil in International Relations from Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar.
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