SPEAKER: Mr John Major
Former President of the European Commission

From the economy and trade to politics and diplomacy, few have the clear understanding of world events that Sir John Major brings in explaining today’s most complex problems. With his trademark wit, warmth and wisdom, Major showcases his uncanny ability to foresee which emerging international issues will become tomorrow’s headline news. Major takes a hard look how technological advances have affected developing regions like South America and Africa and what this means to the economic, social and political stability of the rest of the world. Heavily involved in bringing peace to Northern Ireland, Major engages in a conversation on the world’s trouble spots and what nations must do to deter terrorism and maintain peace. Prime Minister during a time of unprecedented transformation, Major looks at the European Union and how international cooperation has affected the world in the current economic downturn.

As former prime minister of Great Britain, Sir John Major is one of the most respected figures in the international arena. Sir John had little formal education, but through sheer will and talent became a great leader of both Great Britain and on the world stage. With an eye towards both Europe and the U.S., he helps audiences understand the profound importance of promoting freedom and peaceful coexistence among nations, while reflecting on the challenges facing the free world: terrorism, the global economy and nation building. Serving as chief secretary of the treasury and chancellor of the exchequer prior to becoming prime minister, Sir John delivers the experienced insights of a hands-on global economist, sharing with audiences the indicators that signal shrinking—and thriving—economies. Major provides lessons about leading a nation of such historic and international significance—sharing personal experiences as well as providing examples from other distinguished world leaders.