Sessions - Peace, Geopolitics and Multilateralism

Fit for purpose? How to revitalize the United Nations 

Where is a globe riven by deep inequalities, geopolitical divisions, tragic crises and aggressions heading? For many, the current landscape as well as the future appear gloomy as the global architecture does not live up to its ideals and goals of upholding efficient and fair multilateral governance as well as peace. In this session, taking place shortly after the UN Summit of the Future, seasoned high-level UN experts familiar with the inner workings of the institution will share their views on its outcome.  

Will the expected documents — the Pact for the Future, and the accompanying Digital Global Compact and Declaration on Future Generations — be enough for the UN System to rebuild trust in the world body and enable it to respond adequately to future challenges? Panelists will explore how to set a meaningful roadmap of reform for the UN so it can put the SDGs back on track more effectively and help solve conflicts. They will look ahead, particularly to 2026, when the next Secretary-General will be appointed, and discuss the kind of leadership the UN needs. 

History in the making: How will the US election impact the world? 

Taking place just days after the US presidential elections — a major challenge for the planet identified as one of the “significant geopolitical risks that the world faces in 2024” (Eurasia Group 2024) — this session will gather thought leaders and experts who will take stock of the new lay of the land. They will discuss the possible political changes in foreign policy and commitment to multilateralism the next President-Elect may bring about against an unstable and fragmented international backdrop. At a pivotal moment showing whether Washington will continue its efforts to lead on the global stage or turn inward, panelists will also highlight the ripple effects of the ballot on other democracies worldwide and the geopolitical state of affairs in ongoing conflicts. As possible shifts may occur in national priorities and cooperation, how can we keep the fight against climate change, the implementation of the SDGs and peace efforts on track? 

Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan: Taking Responsibility to End Conflicts 

A few sessions will address the increasingly frictional competition between powers and the ongoing wars in the Middle East, Ukraine and Sudan. They will focus on the weakening consensus on conflict resolution strategies and on the UN Security Council’s eroding ability to resolve conflicts. They will, more importantly, explore new pathways to peace. 

A world order with Chinese characteristics?

As the existing international liberal, rules-based order created in the aftermath of World War II is fraying under the pressure of unsolved crises and conflicts and empowered new actors, questions arise. How to reshape a new functioning order, who will design it, and will it gain broad buy-in and respect? In this debate, China has been pushing an alternative vision and narrative to position itself as a major power broker. While some see China as an assertive challenger to the US-led system, others see it as an advocate for emerging powers and a more balanced world. As other middle powers are also eager to play an increased role on the global stage and align with the West or China or none as it suits their interests, can a new leadership on global issues such as climate or health be found in a fragmented, multipolar world? How is the global order shifting vis-à-vis China and US competition? How to sustain global cooperation in a time of “decoupling” and “de-risking” strategies? Experts from China and various regions will share the visions and proposals of established and emerging powers on global governance and collective action and identify possible pathways to move forward despite plural views.