In a recent installment of the Senator Joseph Lieberman – Mitzner Center for Public Service and Advocacy’s “In Dialogue With” series, over 40 students were privy to a fascinating discussion with Israel Nitzan, former Deputy Consul General of Israel. This event, co-hosted by the S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program, provided a unique opportunity to delve into the world of diplomacy and international relations through Nitzan’s experienced lens.
An Inspirational Career Journey
The event opened with Nitzan sharing his journey through the foreign service field. His studies in Middle East History and International Relations at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem led to diverse postings, including a significant stint at the Israeli embassy in Cairo. Nitzan emphasized adaptability in his career, urging students to embrace change, saying, “Never turn down the opportunity to learn something new.”
Challenges on the Global Stage
Turning his focus to the United Nations, Nitzan candidly discussed the hurdles Israel faces, particularly highlighting the excessive politicization within the international body. He pointed out the ineffectiveness of the UN’s current leadership in addressing major conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza, illustrating a complex web of biases and politics that Israel must navigate.
Behind-the-Scenes Diplomacy
Despite public struggles, Nitzan painted a picture of diplomacy that transcends visible tensions. He shared anecdotes of unexpected collaborations with presumed adversaries, emphasizing that “Diplomacy, at the end of the day, is about people.” For aspiring diplomats, this perspective promises both hope and challenges, underscoring the significance of personal relationships in international relations.
The Diplomatic Journey’s Dual Nature
For students interested in pursuing careers in diplomacy, Nitzan offered a candid view of the ‘wandering Jew’ experience in the diplomatic world. While he acknowledged the difficulties stemming from biases and constant travel, his message resonated with inspiration, “It is a great privilege to represent your country.”
Past and Future Dialogues
Previous notable figures in the “In Dialogue With” series include Hon. Clarine Nardi Riddle and Jonathan Greenspun. As students left the event, they carried with them not only insights into the diplomatic field but also the motivation to embrace the challenges and privileges of public service. To explore more about the Lieberman-Mitzner Scholars Program and future events, connect with the center on social media.
According to Yeshiva University, this enlightening discourse marks another successful chapter for the Senator Joseph Lieberman – Mitzner Center, continuing its mission to foster informed and engaged future leaders in public service and advocacy.
