The State of Meridian

Global power dynamics are shifting, demanding a more agile and strategic approach to diplomacy. Emerging threats—from cyber warfare to economic competition—are reshaping international relations, requiring U.S. leaders to adapt and innovate. At The State of Meridian, a briefing for members of the Meridian Council, CEO Ambassador Stuart Holliday outlined how Meridian is strengthening America’s leadership and diplomacy. By bridging sectors, equipping leaders, and accelerating collaboration, Meridian is helping the U.S. meet today’s most pressing international challenges. To learn more about how Meridian is empowering leaders for the next era of diplomacy, read our Blueprint for the Future here.

These Were the Top Takeaways from the Program:

1. Diplomacy is Evolving with Emerging Global Threats

Diplomats must adapt their traditional skills to address contemporary challenges. Unlike in the past, when they specialized in political, economic, or consular affairs, today's diplomats need a broader toolkit. They must understand new issues while engaging across sectors and borders to solve complex problems. Today, diplomats manage cyber threats as actively as they negotiate peace treaties or trade deals.

2. From Aid to Investment: The New Face of U.S. Foreign Assistance

U.S. foreign assistance has evolved beyond traditional aid into strategic, investment-driven models. While programs like PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) historically addressed gaps where private sector investment was absent, today’s approach integrates trade, commerce, and economic diplomacy. Strengthening global engagement requires both public and private actors to collaborate, ensuring American companies thrive internationally while advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives.

3. Innovation as a Diplomatic Imperative

Rethinking how the U.S. structures and funds international engagement is critical. While private sector investment remains vital, public-private collaboration can bridge the gap in areas where markets might fail, especially in addressing human rights, global health issues, or emerging economies. Innovation also extends to rethinking how traditional foreign aid models can be modernized to support lasting global stability.

4. American Leadership: A Diplomatic Priority

As global challenges evolve, U.S. leadership has the potential to reshape traditional diplomatic norms. The U.S. can help modernize diplomatic engagement to better address today’s complex geopolitical landscape by fostering innovation, engaging with new diplomatic actors like the private sector, and strengthening collaboration across sectors.

5. Diplomacy Demands Agility

Many of the challenges we face today, from technological advancements to shifts in economic power, require diplomats who are nimble, forward-thinking, and able to engage diverse global sectors. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, can and should be used to enhance diplomatic engagement, rather than stifle it. As the landscape continues to evolve, those in the diplomatic field must continually reassess their strategies to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Project summary

The State of Meridian | April 2025
Impact Areas:	Governance and Transparency
Program Areas:	Diplomatic Engagement