British Ambassador to the Czech Republic Visits Anglo-American University

Field, who has served as the UK’s representative in the Czech Republic since January 2023, brought a wealth of experience to his discussion. His diplomatic career, stretching over two decades, has included key political and policy roles across Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Prior to his posting in Prague, he served as Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina (2018–2022) and held advisory and leadership positions in British embassies in Brazil, Croatia, and North Macedonia. His work has covered areas ranging from EU accession negotiations to Middle East diplomacy and strategic policy planning within the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Beyond government service, Field’s early career included work for Oxfam, a global humanitarian organization, and involvement with the Japan 2002 World Cup Organizing Committee. He holds master’s degrees in religious studies, Japanese studies, and business administration.

Reflecting on his career, Field shared his thoughts on the evolving nature of diplomacy and the challenges facing today’s global leaders. He described his own path into the field as unplanned yet shaped by invaluable opportunities, including time spent living in Kenya and Japan—experiences that ultimately led him to pursue a career in international diplomacy.

Field acknowledged that the role of an ambassador extends beyond policy work, requiring adaptability, strategic thinking, and a personal touch. He emphasized the delicate balance diplomats have to strike between authenticity and discretion, referencing Tom Fletcher’s assertion that a diplomat must be “authentic, engaging, and purposeful.”

Discussing the shifting geopolitical landscape, Field remarked on the increased volatility of the modern world, with rapid developments demanding new approaches to diplomacy. He also noted the profound impact of advancing technology on international relations and how it is reshaping both diplomacy and the global order. Among recent key global events, he highlighted the significance of the meeting between presidents Trump and Zelenskyy as well the London  summit on Ukraine and the broader consequences of ongoing conflicts in various regions.

The ambassador likewise reflected on the United Kingdom’s role on the global stage, emphasizing its efforts to cultivate a diplomatic corps that accurately represents the nation and its values. He underlined the importance of adapting to new diplomatic challenges while maintaining strong, enduring partnerships.

During the Q&A session, students and faculty posed a range of questions, leading to a productive discussion on contemporary diplomacy. Addressing the UK’s role in international leadership, the ambassador noted that while the country holds influence, global challenges increasingly require cooperative solutions rather than the dominance of any single power. He also touched on the historical role of the United States in subsidizing Europe and the shifting dynamics of transatlantic relations.

A Czech audience member expressed appreciation for the ambassador’s efforts to understand and assimilate Czech culture, prompting a discussion on the importance of diplomats not only managing difficult relationships between nations but also remembering to nurture the positive ones. The ambassador spoke favorably of the UK-Czech relationship, affirming that strong ties remain between the UK and Europe.

For students inspired by visits such as this one and by global affairs generally, AAU offers a unique opportunity to study International Relations in a highly international environment where influential guest speakers regularly come to share their expertise. Events like the Meet the Ambassador Series provide firsthand exposure to key diplomatic figures and discussions shaping today’s world, while the university’s International Relations and Diplomacy programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for careers in global diplomacy and beyond. Reach out to admissions@aauni.edu to learn more.

Explore more moments from the event in the photo gallery.