The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness and accountability in government.

With one month to go before the people of Southern Sudan vote in a referendum on secession from the north, Traci Cook, NDI's director in Juba, provided the latest assessment of how preparations for the vote are progressing. Atul Khare, who oversees global U.N. peacekeeping missions, discussed U.N. efforts to ensure a smooth referendum process. Linda Bishai discussed USIP's non-violence programs and reflect on attitudes toward the referendum based on recent travels around Southern Sudan.

Featuring:

• Traci Cook, resident director for Southern Sudan, NDI
• Atul Khare, assistant secretary-general for peacekeeping operations, United Nations
• Linda Bishai, senior program officer, Academy for International Conflict Management and Peacebuilding, United States Institute of Peace
• Richard Downie, deputy director and fellow, CSIS Africa Program

Friday, Dec. 10
10am - 11:30am
Conference Room B1C
CSIS 1800 K St. NW, Washington, D.C.