CCI Presents "MIDDVantage: Exploring Careers in Conflict Transformation" Episode 3: Peacebuilding in Afghanistan
CCI and Middlebury in DC are launching the third episode of our video interview series, “MIDDVantage: Exploring Careers in Conflict Transformation.” This unique collaborative effort, developed in partnership with the Middlebury Professional Network, and Middlebury students, offers an exploration of the field of conflict transformation.
In this third episode, titled “Peacebuilding in Afghanistan,” viewers will be treated to a discussion with guest speaker Kate Bateman ‘00, a Senior Expert on Afghanistan at the United States Institute of Peace. Kate Goodman ‘24 is the interviewer.
Kate Bateman, a Middlebury alumna, brings extensive experience and insight to the episode. She currently serves as a senior expert on Afghanistan for the U.S. Institute of Peace. Prior to her role at USIP, Bateman led projects in the Lessons Learned Program at the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). She led reports on anticorruption, counternarcotics, reintegration of ex-combatants and gender equality.
Between 2016 and 2017, as a Council on Foreign Relations International Affairs Fellow at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), Bateman conducted research and wrote on corruption as a national security issue. Her career also includes service in intelligence and policy positions at the State Department, both in Washington and overseas, including assignments in Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. Additionally, she served as a legislative aide on Capitol Hill.
Bateman’s research focuses on the Afghanistan conflict, stabilization and peacebuilding efforts in fragile states, and the intersection of corruption and U.S. foreign policy interests. She has a master’s from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, and a bachelor’s from Middlebury College.
Beyond her work at USIP, CNAS, and SIGAR, Bateman’s analysis has been featured in prominent publications like Foreign Affairs, Lawfare, The National Interest, The Hill, and Proceedings.
Episode 3 of “MIDDVantage: Exploring Careers in Conflict Transformation” promises to provide an insightful perspective on peacebuilding efforts in Afghanistan. Kate Bateman’s expertise and experiences offer an invaluable look into the challenges and opportunities within this vital field. The episode is now available for viewing on YouTube via the following link: Watch here.
Stay engaged with the “MIDDVantage” series every other week as we continue to launch new episodes this fall. The next episode will launch on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.