Description

In 2016, Macleans described Dr. Bruce Mabley as “the rogue Canadian diplomat who took on Assad,” and asked the question, “is he a hero? Or did he cross the line?” Dr. Mabley, stationed at the Canadian embassy in Ankara, the Turkish capital in 2010 was present as the Arab Spring swept through the Middle East, finally engulfing Syria. As the Syrian opposition took shape and then stumbled in the face of overwhelming force, Mabley defied his superiors and took on an increasingly activist role – a decision that ultimately ended his career in the Foreign Service. During his talk, Dr. Mabley will provide an in-depth historical sketch of what he did and why and offer a prognosis of what lies ahead for the Syrian people and the region. In addition, a strong proponent of the need for reform in Global Affairs Canada, Dr. Mabley will offer his views on what needs to change and why.

Speaker’s Biography

Dr. Bruce Mabley obtained his Doctorate in Philosophy from the Université Laval in 1982 and later completed a post-doctoral program focused on Islamic law and political Islam. He then spent 10 years with the Department of Foreign Affairs serving in Paris, Islamabad, Cairo and Amman before returning to a university teaching career. In 2008, Bruce re-joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and in 2010 was posted to Ankara. He retired in late 2016. He is now the Director and Principal Researcher of the Cercle Rossillon and his articles and opinion pieces have appeared in numerous Canadian and international media outlets.

Registration

CIC Member Price: $30.00
CIC Student Member Price: $15.00
CIC Young Professional Member Price: $20.00
Non-Member Price: $40.00
Non-Member Student Price: $20.00

Contact Person: Paula Skippon – CIC.Victoria.Sec@gmail.com