A Conversation with Estonian President Alar Karis

Hybrid
Estonian President Alar Karis joins the Council to discuss digital innovation, cybersecurity, and Estonia's role on the front lines of collective defense.
Estonian President Alar Karis speaks during a panel at the Bled Strategic Forum in Bled, Slovenia on September 2, 2025.
Oct
28
Darko Bandic / AP
Speakers
Alar Karis
Leslie Vinjamuri
Date and Time
Doors Open: 9:45 AM
Location
Chicago Council Conference Center, 130 E Randolph Street or via YouTube
Who Can Attend

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This event is open to the public.
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About This Event

Estonia has become a digital powerhouse, leading the world in online government services while positioned on NATO's strategically important eastern border. The country has shown how technology can strengthen democracy and security simultaneously. How did Estonia transform itself into a digital leader? What can other countries learn from its approach to both innovation and defense? And how can stronger US-Estonia cooperation help address today's evolving security challenges? Join President Karis as he discusses Estonia's experience navigating digital transformation and geopolitical pressures in an increasingly complex world.

About the Speakers
Alar Karis
President of Estonia
Headshot of Estonian President Alar Karis.
Alar Karis has served as president of the Republic of Estonia since October 11, 2021. A molecular geneticist and developmental biologist, he previously served as director of the Estonian National Museum, as rector of the University of Tartu and the Estonian University of Life Sciences, and as auditor-general of the Republic of Estonia.
Headshot of Estonian President Alar Karis.
Leslie Vinjamuri
President & Chief Executive Officer, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
Leslie Vinjamuri headshot
Dr. Leslie Vinjamuri joined the Council in 2025 as the president and chief executive officer, after previously serving as director of the US and the Americas program at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, known as Chatham House, in London. She brings nearly 30 years of experience working at the intersection of international affairs, research, policy, and public engagement.
Leslie Vinjamuri headshot
Attend In-Person Open to all
Watch Live Stream Open to all
Issues Global Politics Tech and Science
Regions Europe
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