In a period marked by geopolitical uncertainty, technological transformation, and growing pressure on democratic institutions, questions of democratic governance, international cooperation, and strategic leadership have gained renewed urgency. Against this backdrop, Aspen, Colorado, will host two of the Aspen Institute’s flagship convenings in summer 2026: the Aspen Ideas Festival (June 25–July 1) and the Aspen Security Forum (July 14–17).
The Aspen Ideas Festival will bring together leaders from government, business, academia, civil society, media, and the arts to explore the ideas, innovations, and policies shaping the future. Organized around the theme of “Independence,” marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, the Festival will feature discussions on democratic resilience, artificial intelligence, climate change, economic opportunity, public trust, and global cooperation.Shortly thereafter, the Aspen Security Forum will convene policy makers, military leaders, diplomats, academics, journalists, and business executives to examine the most pressing national and international security challenges. Discussions will focus on transatlantic relations, geopolitical competition, emerging technologies, cybersecurity, regional conflicts, energy security, and the future of international cooperation.
