Discussion Group FAQs

How many discussion groups are there? There are currently ten discussion groups in Washington, DC. Each group is focused on a particular topic or region of the world:

What is the vision of the discussion groups? The vision of the discussion groups is to establish a large and growing network of semi-autonomous communities within the larger YPFP community, each of which will bring together a small number of YPFP members who share a regional or topical interest for regular, informal, intellectually rigorous, and personally rewarding meetings. What is the mission of the Discussion Groups? The mission of the discussion groups is to bring together YPFP members within various fields of foreign policy, providing them with a forum to exchange views, discuss current events, share resources, present and receive feedback on their writing and current work, and expand their conversations beyond YPFP's regular events. In addition to providing another venue for discussion, these groups will strengthen the YPFP community by fostering personal as well as professional relationships. Are members automatically assigned to the Discussion Group of their choosing? YPFP's goal is to find a spot in a Discussion Group for any YPFP member who wishes to participate in one. However, in order to preserve the character of the community and discussion in the Groups, the number of participants in each Discussion Group must be capped. Members who do not initially get placed in a DG will remain on a waiting list. YPFP will only place members in a DG who are appropriate for that specific group. YPFP will add additional groups over time to meet the demand for participation, with the hope that any member who wishes to, will eventually be placed. YPFP Members who are not initially selected for a group, should please be patient and will be notified first when additional groups are formed. What is the basis for selection? Inclusion decisions will be made on the basis of three criteria that will be included in the email announcement: 1. Does this person have a professional, personal or educational background that suggests they will contribute to and benefit from active participation in the Discussion Group? 2. Do you believe this person will commit to attend as regularly as possible? 3. Do you believe this person will contribute to a diverse Discussion Group that has a balanced, representative composition conducive to a good discussion? Can I participate in more than one Discussion Group? YPFP Members are only permitted to participate in one Discussion Group. What is the format of Discussion Group sessions? The format is very flexible. Some common formats include inviting a guest speaker, a 10-min presentation by a group member followed by discussion, or simply an open forum from start to finish. How often do the Discussion Groups meet? DGs meet once a month. Who is eligible to join a Discussion Group? All YPFP members are encouraged to apply. You must be a General (dues-paying) Member to participate. How many members belong to each Discussion Group? The Disucssion Groups aim to consist of 20-25 members. Who can I contact with questions about the Discussion Groups? Please contact Laura Hammami (laura.hammami@ypfp.org) for more information about the Discussion Groups.

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