From ROHO to MOHO: Interview with Ambassador June Carter Perry

One of the advantages of studying abroad at a prestigious college like Mount Holyoke is the educational benefits which are above the norm and continue to surprise me. Over the past semester, I have had the opportunity to be taught “Changing Roles

Of U.S. Diplomacy” by one of the country’s most respected Ambassadors, June Carter Perry. She has been a visiting professor of International Relations at Mount Holyoke College for the past three semesters. Following her graduation from Loyola University Chicago and the University of Chicago, Ambassador Perry joined the Peace Corps. Along with many accomplishments, she has served as Chief of Mission to both Sierra Leone and Lesotho and Deputy Chief of Mission in Madagascar and Central African Republic. Ambassador Perry has also served in the State Department as Director of the Office of Social and Humanitarian Affairs in the International Organizations Bureau, working closely with the United Nations Commission on Human Rights, the Economic and Social Council and the Commission on the Status of Women.

As the semester comes to a close, Ambassador Perry’s time at Mount Holyoke College has also come to an end. Here are some questions from an interview with Ambassador Perry:

Have you enjoyed your time as a visiting professor at Mount Holyoke College?

Serving as the Cyrus Vane Visiting Professor of International Relations at Mount Holyoke College in 2011 and 2012 has been a most enjoyable experience. The leadership and support of President Pasquerella and of IR Chair, Professor Hashmi, have been outstanding. Most importantly, the intellectual curiosity of the students and their willingness to both challenge and absorb concepts in the arena of diplomatic issues has been of great inspiration to me. There is no doubt each will lead in her own way during a period of changing global environment and that is good news for the international community writ large.

How would you sum up your experience as an Ambassador?

Serving as a U.S. Ambassador is a great honor. To represent the United States at the request of the President is a significant responsibility and an opportunity to share values of democracy such as freedom of speech and respect for human rights around the world. Collaborating with international representatives on matters of governance, women’s rights, education and economic development offers the chance to change matters for the better, even under difficult circumstances. Full faith and confidence in our fundamental principles makes the job of any Ambassador fulfilling, no matter the challenges faced.

What would your advice be to an aspiring diplomat?

Aspiring diplomats must be prepared not only in letters but in the art of negotiation. They will face situations that call upon their intellectual and physical stamina in ways they may not realize. The ability to respond effectively in a 24/7 environment requires courage, strength and full faith and confidence in promoting world peace. Recognizing that achieving victories such as advancing measures to combat human trafficking may take in-depth knowledge of national and international law and of the real trials countries face in making progress. Much knowledge is gained “on the ground,” in the situation at hand. Therefore, potential diplomats should hone their intellectual and communication skills to the fullest. You cannot predict the situations you will face. Therefore, extensive preparation coupled with flexibility and determination are key factors one should possess in this profession.

Which steps do you believe the U.S. needs to take to resolving the Palestine-Israeli conflict?

The “fertile crescent” is the home of three world religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Much of civilizations’ fundamental philosophy has evolved from the rich history of that part of the world. To determine the “next steps” in resolving issues facing Israel and Palestine will be up to the President in concert with international colleagues. There appears to be agreement that a two state solution is the end goal. How to achieve that will continue, in my view, to require major negotiation with all involved. One should recall that President Carter, working in concert with Egypt and the states involved, achieved a major agreement. Since that time, over 30 years ago, progress has gone forward and then back again. Respect for the rights of all people in the region is paramount. We consider Israel one of our strongest allies and also recognize the desires of the people of Palestine. Continuing negotiation with all parties, acting in good faith and with flexibility, is necessary to achieve peace and stability in the region.

What are the future threats facing American foreign policy?

The United States is founded upon fundamental principles of liberty and those principles have in large measure been reflected in the founding of the United Nations. Therefore, when one asks about “threats to U.S. foreign policy,” perhaps one should consider how best to guarantee security for all nations. The President must protect the citizens of his country and, as the premier world leader, is also faced with demonstrating concern for citizens of the world. Again, in concert with international partners, the United States examines where threats lie. If one were to make a list of sorts, radicalism, expansion of nuclear capability in unstable regions and gross disregard for the lives of citizens in their own countries stand out as major threats. Homegrown terrorism as well as that from afar is a serious threat to peace and security. At this time of year, Handel’s “Why Do the Nations Rage?” is not only an oratory, but a real question facing the United States and the world. A grave responsibility rests on the shoulders of our President and those of allies. Without security, food, education, and basic human needs being met globally, it will be difficult, but not impossible, to achieve peace. It is my belief, that the United States will continue to confront those needs and meet them to the best of its own ability in cooperation with other nations of goodwill.

Ambassador June Carter Perry

It has simply been an honor taking the class with Ambassador Perry. She has blown us all away with her experience both domestically and internationally. I will always remember the time spent with someone as distinguished as Ambassador Perry, who has inspired and continues to inspire me.