Alaska World Affairs Council

What a great talk yesterday from Yaya Fanusie! We could have gone on for much longer!

Yaya examined how digital finance has evolved from traditional online banking into cryptocurrencies and emerging Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). He discussed the risks and realities of illicit finance, noting that while terrorist groups and criminals have experimented with Bitcoin, anonymity and untraceable transactions have long existed through physical cash as well.

Fanusie also explored the geopolitical implications of digital currencies, highlighting how other countries and blocs are developing blockchain-based payment systems that could challenge U.S.-centered financial dominance while increasing concerns about surveillance and “programmable money.”

Concluding on a hopeful note, he stressed the importance of constitutional protections, encryption, and privacy-preserving technologies such as Zero Knowledge Proofs to safeguard financial freedom in an increasingly digitized and fragmented global economy.

Want to revisit the conversation? The recording is now available online:

The Digital Dilemma: Protecting Privacy in an Age of Innovation with Yaya Fanusie As our world becomes increasingly digital, the systems that power i...

As our world becomes increasingly digital, the systems that power innovation—financial technologies, data platforms, and global connectivity—are evolving faster than the frameworks designed to govern them. This raises an urgent question: how do we ensure the digital world strengthens opportunity and security, without eroding privacy or enabling misuse?

We invite you to join us this Wednesday for a timely virtual conversation with Yaya Fanusie, a leading expert at the intersection of national security, cryptocurrency, and financial technology.

Yaya brings a rare depth of experience to these issues. He previously served as an analyst at the CIA, focusing on economic threats and counterterrorism. He later became one of the first voices in the U.S. national security community to examine how cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies could be used—and potentially abused—by both state and non-state actors.

He has since served as Director of Analysis at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Center on Economic and Financial Power, where his work helped shape early policy discussions around digital assets and illicit finance. Today, as a senior advisor at the Crypto Council for Innovation, he continues to bridge the worlds of innovation, regulation, and national security, helping stakeholders navigate the rapidly evolving digital economy.

The Digital Dilemma: Protecting Privacy in an Age of Innovation - Alaska World Affairs As our world becomes increasingly digital, the systems that power innovation—financial technologies, data platforms, and global connectivity—are evolving

Last night, we had the privilege of hosting Japan in the Arctic: Policy, Security, and International Cooperation—an evening highlighting the deep and evolving connections between Alaska and Japan. 🇯🇵

Moderated by Mead Treadwell, the discussion featured former Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and Atsushi Sunami, President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation. Together, they reflected on the strong historical and emerging ties between Alaska and Japan, emphasizing Alaska’s role as a “front door” to broader American economic, scientific, and cultural opportunities.

The evening began with a powerful performance by Tomodachi Daiko, whose partnership with the Anchorage School District’s Japanese Immersion program brings cultural traditions to life. As Minister Kamikawa noted, the drumbeat is more than music—it is the heartbeat of a culture.

Read more about the discussion here: https://alaskaworldaffairs.org/uncategorized/program-recap-japan-in-the-arctic-a-reception-on-policy-security-and-international-cooperation/

Thank you to Mead and Tim Treadwell, Commonwealth North for co-hosting, and the University of Alaska for their generous support.

Our Community Spotlight highlights members of the AKWorld community who are helping connect Alaskans to the world in meaningful ways. This month, we’re honored to feature Tammalivis Salanoa.

Tammalivis first connected with AKWorld as a high school student—after attending a speaker event for extra credit. What started as an assignment quickly turned into a lasting interest in global issues.

Through her experience as a student scholar and as a volunteer, she’s gained a deeper understanding of how global decisions shape everyday life—and why collaboration and informed perspectives matter.

One of her favorite memories? Traveling to Washington, D.C., for the WACA National Conference as a student scholar and connecting with other scholars she still keeps in touch with today.

Her advice for anyone considering getting involved:
“Why not? You have nothing to lose but the world of knowledge to gain.”

She’s especially interested in climate issues affecting the Pacific and would love to see Greta Thunberg speak in Alaska to engage youth on Arctic challenges.

We’re grateful to have Tammalivis in the AKWorld community.

🔗 Read more: https://alaskaworldaffairs.org/uncategorized/community-spotlight-tammalivis-salanoa/

This Thursday, join the Alaska World Affairs Council and Commonwealth North for a special evening featuring a high-level conversation on Japan’s evolving role in the Arctic, generously supported by the University of Alaska.

Our speakers include Yoko Kamikawa, Japan’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Justice—the first woman to hold both roles; and Atsushi Sunami, President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and Distinguished Fellow at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.

The discussion will be moderated by Mead Treadwell, whose extensive experience in Arctic policy and U.S.–international relations will guide the conversation.

Together, they will explore Japan’s strategic priorities in the Arctic and what they mean for Alaska, regional security, scientific cooperation, and the future of this rapidly changing region.

Following the program, stay for appetizers, drinks, and conversation with our speakers and community.

Space is limited and we are nearing capacity—please reserve your seats now if you plan to attend.

Japan in the Arctic: A Reception on Policy, Security, and International Cooperation - Alaska World Affairs Join the Alaska World Affairs Council and Commonwealth North for a special evening with former Foreign Minister of Japan, Yoko Kamikawa and Atsushi Sunami,

What a great discussion yesterday - Peacemaking in a Time of Escalation with Paul Dziatkowiec. Paul Dziatkowiec and moderator, Janine Elgamal, discussed Paul’s work as a crisis mediator, highlighting both the challenges and necessities of modern peacebuilding. Paul underscored the personal and professional skills essential for effective mediation, including strong interpersonal relationships, trustworthiness, discretion, and resilience. Finally, he reflected on the moral dimensions of global politics, lamenting not only the weakening of international systems but also a decline in fundamental human values such as kindness and mutual respect. We are so thankful for Paul taking time out of his busy schedule to speak with us.

Looking for some tips on how make the world - your world - a little more peaceful? Join us today to hear Paul Dziatkowiec unpack what peacemaking looks like when it matters most.

Registration is closed, but walk-ins are most welcome. Bring a friend, or someone you want to make peace with!

https://alaskaworldaffairs.org/events/peacemaking-in-a-time-of-escalation/

At a moment when it can feel like global tensions are only intensifying, it’s worth asking: what does effective peacemaking actually look like right now? Not in theory—but in practice, in today’s geopolitical climate.

That’s exactly what we’ll explore tomorrow evening at Peacemaking in a Time of Escalation.

We’re looking forward to welcoming Paul Dziatkowiec, Director of Mediation and Peace Support at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, for a conversation grounded in real-world experience. Together, we’ll dig into how conflicts are evolving, what tools peacemakers actually have at their disposal, and where there is still room for progress.

This conversation feels especially relevant right now. From ongoing conflicts to rising geopolitical competition, the question isn’t just why tensions are escalating—it’s how individuals, institutions, and countries can still work toward de-escalation in meaningful ways.

As always, one of the most valuable parts of these programs is the opportunity to engage directly—ask questions, share perspectives, and be part of a thoughtful, informed dialogue with others in our community.

We hope you will join us!

Peacemaking in a Time of Escalation with Paul Dziatkowiec - Alaska World Affairs At a moment when conflicts around the world appear to be intensifying rather than easing, the practice of peacemaking faces new pressures and challenges.

Last week, a full house gathered to hear from Ben Kellie, founder of Applied Atomics, as he shared how his past experience is shaping the future of nuclear energy. Students joined community members in the audience, adding to a dynamic and engaged conversation. After a brief primer on how nuclear energy works and what Applied Atomics aims to do, Ben joined Mead Treadwell for a wide-ranging discussion, followed by thoughtful questions from attendees.

Key topics included the cost of energy from Applied Atomics installations—emphasizing the need to remain competitive—as well as important considerations around safety, regulation, and permitting. Ben highlighted how lessons from past incidents have strengthened modern safety measures, while also noting that these technologies largely fit within existing regulatory frameworks and are best pursued in communities open to nuclear development.

We are grateful to Ben and Mead for sharing their time and insights, and to our audience members & students for their thoughtful engagement!

We’re kicking off our new Community Spotlight series with an educator who’s been inspiring Alaska students for 30 years.

For Perry Lewis, the best teaching moments are when something clicks–when the world stops feeling distant and becomes real. That’s why he connects his students with AKWorld programs and outside voices:

“When students hear something from a new voice–especially someone from the community–it makes the material more real. It helps them see themselves as global citizens.”

From connecting students with global experts and community leaders to leading championship teams in Academic WorldQuest–including back-to-back Alaska state wins and a top 10 national finish–Perry is helping shape the next generation of globally minded Alaskans.

His advice? “Do it. Go to see a speaker. Go to Academic WorldQuest. Try out the World Wiz Pub Quiz. Whatever angle you can find, connect with AKWorld. They are a great organization with great people to work with at every level.”

Read more about Perry’s story and impact: https://alaskaworldaffairs.org/uncategorized/community-spotlight-perry-lewis/