Book Launch: The Curious Diplomat with Dr Lachlan Strahan

The New Zealand Institute of International Affairs (NZIIA) Wellington Branch is delighted to host Dr Lachlan Strahan, historian, former Australian diplomat, and author of The Curious Diplomat: A Memoir from the Frontlines of Diplomacy, for a special book launch and discussion online across New Zealand.

Drawing on more than three decades of diplomatic service across the Indo-Pacific and beyond, Dr Strahan offers a rare insider's perspective on the practice of diplomacy, the making of foreign policy, and the personalities and events that have shaped Australia's engagement with the world. From postings in Germany, Korea, India, and the Solomon Islands to work on some of the most significant strategic challenges of recent decades, The Curious Diplomat provides a compelling account of life on the front lines of international affairs.

In a conversation with Chair of the NZIIA Wellington Branch, Dr Strahan will reflect on the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific, the role of diplomacy in an increasingly contested world, and the lessons he has drawn from a career spent navigating complex international relationships. The discussion will also explore the enduring importance of curiosity, judgment, and human connection in diplomatic practice.

This event offers a unique opportunity for diplomats, policymakers, academics, students, and anyone interested in international affairs to engage with one of Australasia's most experienced diplomatic practitioners and celebrate the launch of an important new contribution to the literature on diplomacy and foreign policy.

Event details:

Date: Wednesday 1 July 2026, 5:30-6:40pm,

Format: Conversation and Q&A held Online (Zoom link to be sent to confirmed registrants)

Speakers: Dr Lachlan Strahan in conversation with the Chair of NZIIA Wellington Branch

Schrodingers Books

NZIIA Wellington has partnered with Schrodingers Books at 137 Jackson Street, Petone and Strahan's book "The Curious Diplomat" can be purchased in store in late June or online via:

https://schrodingersbooks.co.nz/p/the-curious-diplomat-a-memoir-from-the-frontlines-of-diplomacy

One lucky NZIIA Wellington Branch member attending this event will win a copy of "The Curious Diplomat" thanks to Monash University Publishing and Schrodingers Books in Petone.

Terms and Conditions:

-Free for NZIIA 2026 members and please select membership type in the question.

-Non Members $5 plus booking fee.

-Zoom webinar link will be emailed to all registered members and non-members one day prior. Should you not be a registered NZIIA member and have selected this option you may have your registration cancelled.

-One ticket per person. Each ticket must contain your full first and surname, email address and phone number that matches your ID.

-Q&A will be conducted using chat function of zoom webinar and will be put to the Speaker by the Moderator.

Biography- Dr Lachlan Strahan

Dr Lachlan Strahan is an Australian writer and former diplomat. During a thirty-year diplomatic career (1993-2023), he served in Australia’s missions in Bonn, Seoul, New Delhi (deputy high commissioner), Geneva (acting UN ambassador) and Honiara (high commissioner). In Canberra, he ran the multilateral policy division, covering the UN and human rights, and the South and West Asia Division. He ran one of the two branches in the International Division in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet in 2013-15.

He is the author of Australia’s China, one of the standard works on Australia–China relations, Day of Reckoning, which focuses on Papua New Guinea after World War II, and Justice in Kelly Country, which was shortlisted for the 2023 Prime Minister’s Australian history prize.

Contact the host of "The Curious Diplomat" NZ Book Launch with Author Lachlan Strahan

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