Profile
Oliver Rausch is a transatlantic affairs specialist and Political Science and History student at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, focused on U.S.–European relations, U.S. government relations, and international affairs.
Through this work, he has built a growing network of direct professional relationships with representatives of the Trump Administration, the U.S. Department of State, Congress, diplomatic missions, academia, and the international security community.
As Vice President of the Young Transatlantic Initiative, he represents Germany’s largest young transatlantic network in engagements with policymakers, diplomats, security institutions, and civil-society leaders across Europe and the United States.
In February 2026, he organized and moderated a high-level panel at the Munich Security Conference Emerging Leaders program, bringing together senior Trump Administration representatives, political leaders, and policy experts. Later that year, he was selected by the U.S. Department of State for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), becoming one of the youngest participants in the program’s 86-year history.
The Future of Diplomacy
… is interest-based
Diplomacy must be guided by clear national and collective interests. Values gain weight only when anchored in strategic priorities ensuring security, prosperity and stability. Only by pursuing diplomacy rooted in pragmatism and real interests, the free world can maintain its strength and credibility.
… is free
Freedom is the essence of a secure and prosperous global order. Only a world rooted in liberty, free market economy and free trade allows nations and individuals to thrive. This is why I advocate for open trade and a strong Western community committed to defending and advancing these principles around the world.
… is confident
Credible assertiveness is the most effective deterrent to aggression. If the free world fails to project resolve, hostile actors will fill the vacuum. This is why I support a policy of „peace through strength“ and a willingness to escalate, crossing the red lines of our enemies before they cross ours.
… is young
The future is best shaped by the voices of those who will experience it, bringing fresh perspectives, bold ideas and deeper commitment to the process. A stronger representation of youth in decision-making fosters a rich, intergenerational dialogue that bridges practical experience with fresh perspectives.
