The History Project

The History Project captures the essence of Track Two’s foundational work in citizen diplomacy, with its roots in Esalen’s Russian-American program in the early 1970s and 1980s. Non-state diplomacy, implemented by everyday citizens, was never functionally accredited for its unique capacities to open doors when governments were incapable of brokering ties and forging friendships to bridge critical divides. And yet, Track Two and its colleagues did unlock doors when state players found them shut tight. This work inspired numerous citizen diplomacy initiatives that proved crucial in forging connections between countries at moments when global peace needed them most. 

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Through a series of interviews with more than forty individuals who played critical roles in Esalen’s and Track Two’s early diplomatic work, journalist, AI specialist, and Track Two Board member, Ksenia Se chronicles the evolution of a groundbreaking idea to launch a vital movement, coined “track two diplomacy” (also called “citizen diplomacy”). These pioneers inspired numerous citizen diplomacy initiatives that proved crucial in forging connections between countries at moments when global peace needed them most. 

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This approach now inhabits a respected and critical position amid broader diplomacy efforts across the globe. In a world without track two diplomacy, myriad disasters - including nuclear crises - might not have been averted and countless opportunities for productive partnerships in the arts, sciences, and media would likely have perished. 

 

The History Project will produce a collection of media, a book, and podcasts introducing audiences to Track Two's unique approach to citizen diplomacy employing Esalen Institute practices in conflict resolution, non-violent communication, and transpersonal therapies.