Robert Kaplan talked about the geopolitical importance of the Indian Ocean region to U.S. power and security in the 21st century. He argued that the shift in the global balance would make the Indian Ocean the true nexus of world power and conflict over issues such as democracy, energy independence, and religious freedom in the coming years and there that American foreign policy must focus to remain influential in an ever-changing world. Topics included the effects that explosive population growth, climate change, and extremist politics may have in the region. He responded to questions from members of the audience.
“The Indian Ocean and the Future of American Power” was part of the Naval War College’s Evening Lecture Series in Spruance Auditorium. The international lecture was sponsored by the Naval War College Foundation.