In a John Locke Lecture in November, Sir Nigel Sheinwald discussed Britain’s changing international role: from a superpower after the Second World War, to a more settled role after joining the European Union in the 1970s, to a country trying to redefine its international identity after Brexit and profound changes in the United States.

Speaking on the negative effects of Brexit on the UK’s international standing and economic wellbeing, Sir Nigel, a senior diplomat who was British Ambassador in Washington DC from 2007 to 2012, expressed concern over the breakdown of trust with the EU, which would take years to rebuild, and a reduced British commitment to its international role, the recent exception being over Ukraine. 

Concluding his address, Sir Nigel stated that diplomacy and pragmatism have always been seen as British strengths. The UK has retained valuable international links and weight – for example, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a G7 country – and if we could stabilise our relationship with the EU, there would be scope to gradually restore our international effectiveness.

Alice (Sixth Form, MM) said: “It was an honour to hear from Sir Nigel Sheinwald about the UK’s position on the world stage, in particular in light of recent events such as Brexit and the recent Prime Minister changes. It was particularly interesting to examine the history and evolution of the different aspects of the UK’s power, ranging from economic to soft, which have enabled the assertion of independence and dominance, exploring potential current and future challenges to them.

 “The talk prompted a personal reflection on the distinction between perceived and actual power in a global context, and enabled me to view the unfolding of recent global events in a different light. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to hear from such distinguished speakers on varied topics of interest through the John Locke Lectures.”