Embassy Speakers' Program

An American diplomat talking to a school class

Traveling to the United States is the best way to get to know the United States. The second best is by conversing with Americans living right here in Finland. One of our top priorities at the Embassy is to arrange for our diplomatic representatives to visit and speak to groups of people. In the past, we have arranged for officers to discuss American foreign policy, the work of the United States government, and other aspects of American society, politics, and culture at a number of different schools, universities, and organizations.

As a result, the U.S. Embassy has established a speakers' program, offering your group or school the chance to hear from Americans first-hand on the topics of interest to you. Our goal is to get American diplomats talking face-to-face with people who want to hear from them. Diplomacy is not only shaping policy … it's sharing experience. U.S. Embassy Helsinki staff come to Finland with varied and extensive academic, cultural and professional backgrounds, all of which we are eager to share.

Whether you're interested in life in America or U.S. foreign policy, the Embassy has someone who can speak on the issue. We're looking for a wide range of audiences:

• secondary and university student groups
• community organizations
• conferences
• media
• local governments
• NGOs
• cultural events

Among others, topics can include American perspectives on:

• politics/elections
• history
• culture
• business
• media
• education
• sports
• law
• travel and tourism
• defense and security
• religion
• cultural diversity

Speakers are available at no charge.

If you would be interested in a speaker from our Embassy, we would be pleased to arrange such a visit by an Embassy officer. Please do not hesitate to contact the Public Affairs office by email at HelsinkiPAS(at)state.gov.