Agenda

Registration

Somerset Hall

Inaugural Session

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Thoko Didiza, Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa

Prabhat Kumar, High Commissioner of India to South Africa

Keynote Address: 

Thabo Mbeki, Former President of South Africa 

Closing Remarks:

Sunjoy Joshi, Chairman, Observer Research Foundation, India

Somerset Hall

Opening Session | Order from Chaos: South-led Multilateralism

In the last three years, Indonesia, India, and Brazil’s G20 presidencies have proved that the future of multilateralism has pivoted to the developing world. Parallely, the BRICS has emerged as a progressive grouping, adapting to changing times and shifting geopolitical realities with its expansion. ‘Global South’ has been reappropriated to indicate new centres of growth. Keeping the focus on international development, even as geopolitics continued to play itself out, has been a significant achievement of these two groups with global south countries at the helm. For some decades now it has been clear that multilateral institutions have not been responding to the needs of the global south. The WTO, IMF, and World Bank have all become conveniently defunct as their rules started to deliver on the promise of liberal development. 

Driving Questions:

• Can the global commons — from the financial system to post-war multilateral institutions to the principles of international law — serve a neutral and unbiased role in a time of geopolitical rivalry?
• Has the idea of liberal development always been a house of cards?
• Can the G20, BRICS, and other regional organisations deliver better results with a wide consensus?
• Is there merit in complementing old frameworks with new 21st-century institutions?

Speakers:

Anand Sharma, Former Minister of Commerce and Industry, India 

María Elena Agüero, Secretary General, Club de Madrid, Spain 

Moussa Mara, Former Prime Minister of Mali 

Carolina Chimoy, Journalist, Deutsche Welle, Germany

Thoko Didiza, Trustee, Thabo Mbeki Foundation, South Africa

Moderator:

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Somerset Hall

Speed Talk

Nelson Muffuh, UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa

Somerset Hall

Session 1 | T20 South Africa - Continuity and Change

The African continent will be at the centre of global policy-making in the coming year. The African Union joined the G20 under India’s presidency in 2023, and South Africa is taking over the grouping’s presidency later this year. The primacy of the Global South as a geopolitical and geo-economic actor has been underlined by successive G20 presidencies, from Indonesia to India to Brazil. 

This session will bring together the troika members of the T20 to outline the expectations for the coming year. 

Scene Setter: 

José Raphael Lopes Mendes de Azeredo, President, Fundação Alexandre de Gusmão, Brazil

Speakers:

Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Chief Executive, South African Institute of International Affairs, South Africa

Philani Mthembu, Executive Director, Institute for Global Dialogue, South Africa

Jhanvi Tripathi, Associate Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India

Moderator:

Pranjal Sharma, Economic Analyst and Author, India 

Closing Remark

Siphumelele Duma, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation, University of Johannesburg

Grand Ball Room

Uncertain Times: Trade and Investment in a New World System (By-invite-only)

New industrial and trade policies in the Global North and elsewhere are closing off markets and investment to emerging economies. International trade has become increasingly fraught due to emerging trade wars and a renewed threat of increased tariffs from the West.  Connectivity, particularly regional and internal connectivity, has been a pain point for trade and growth in not just the African continent but much of Asia and South America. Given this global context, there is an urgent need to reimagine the very foundations of international trading architecture. 

• How can Western Industrial policies carve out space such that the economic interests of the Global South are not jeopardised, even as they respond to domestic political impulses? 
• What is the potential of an Afro-Asian trading arrangement that responds to the developmental aspirations of both continents? 
• How can AfCFTA attract sustainable foreign investment while promoting local industries?
  ​​

Speakers:

Jeff Radebe, Former Minister in the Presidency, South Africa

Esha Mansingh, Head, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, Sub-Saharan Africa, DP World, South Africa

Yose Rizal Damuri, Executive Director, Centre for Strategic and International Studies, Indonesia

Heungchong Kim, Distinguished Professor, College of International Relations, Korea University, Republic of Korea

Tan Ya,  Researcher and Deputy Director, BRICS Research Center, University of International Business and Economics, China

Chayu Damsinghe, Head of Macroeconomic Advisory, Frontier Research, Sri Lanka

Moderator: 

Ronak Gopaldas,  Director, Signal Risk, South Africa

Lunch

Somerset Hall

Session 2 | Innovating Development: Leveraging Technology for Growth

Technology holds the key to leapfrogging development challenges, but the digital divide remains a significant barrier to achieving the potential it presents. Harnessing the power of digital innovation to drive social and economic inclusion, encompassing ideas on bridging the digital divide, fostering digital literacy, and supporting the growth of the digital economy in the Global South is imperative. Past G20 presidencies have also highlighted the impact of using data for development (D4D), investing in digital health, cleantech, and other sustainability solutions, and promoting women-led development in the tech space. 

Driving Questions: 

• How can technology be leveraged to create inclusive financial systems that reach the most vulnerable populations?
• What role do government policies play in shaping the landscape of tech for development, and how can they support both innovation and inclusivity?
• How can digital financial services be designed to be both accessible and trustworthy for low-income communities?

Speakers:

Ravi Aurora, Senior Vice President, Global Public Policy & Government Affairs, Mastercard, India

Mbali Ndandani, Chief Commercial Officer, Lelapa AI, South Africa

Asela Waidyalankara, Managing Director, Talos Consulting, Sri Lanka

Tshering Cigay Dorji, Director, SELISE Digital Platforms, Bhutan

Moderator:

Neira Dali Chaouch, Senior AI Product Manager, Women in AI & Wemtech, France

Somerset Hall

In Conversation - Burning Challenge: Financing Energy Transitions in the Global South

Energy demand in the Global South economies is expected to rise dramatically, making reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy access crucial for development. As these economies strive to meet escalating energy needs, financing the energy transition becomes a critical issue. This session will explore various financing modalities for the energy transition in the Global South, addressing the complexities and opportunities in mobilising resources. The discussion will focus on the role of public and private sectors, innovative financing mechanisms, and the importance of international cooperation to support the transition to sustainable energy.

Driving questions:

• What are the most effective financing strategies to support the energy transition in the Global South?
• How can public and private sectors collaborate to mobilise resources and drive investment in sustainable energy infrastructure?
• What innovative financing mechanisms can be employed to ensure affordable and reliable energy access while promoting sustainability in the face of rising energy demand?

Speakers:
 
Denis Durrsi, Chief Executive Officer, White Roads Investment Company, Albania

Moongyung Lee, Policy Analyst, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

Alexander Panhofer, Green Finance Consultant, FINGREEN, Austria
 
Moderator:

Sunjoy Joshi, Chairman, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Ministerial Address

Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Republic of South Africa

Somerset Hall

Session 3 | Mineral Mavericks: Balancing Extraction, Security, and Sustainability

Current multilateral trade discussions in Africa are increasingly centred around the retention of the continent's resource value chain within its borders. Despite Africa holding roughly 30 percent of the world's mineral deposits, a staggering 70 percent of these materials are exported to Europe or Asia for further processing. As it stands, unprocessed minerals constitute a substantial 70 percent of Africa's total exports. However, there exists considerable untapped potential for Africa to capitalise on new industrial opportunities by processing its raw materials internally, consequently transitioning into a net exporter of refined products. This has the potential to position Africa as a significant player in global value chains driving economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development across the continent.

Driving Questions:

• What are the key geopolitical and geoeconomic drivers behind the global demand for critical minerals?
• What are the social and environmental impacts of resource extraction on local communities and ecosystems?
• How can countries and stakeholders promote sustainable and equitable resource management practices while ensuring regional security?
• What are the implications of the global push for renewable energy and clean technologies on the demand for critical minerals, and how can Africa position itself to benefit from this trend?
• How can the AU work together with external partners to build out equitable and diversified supply chains for critical minerals essential for the energy transition?

Speakers:

Bridgette Motsepe, Chairman & Founder, Mmakau Mining, South Africa

Sean de Montfort, Program Manager, Climate Finance, Sequoia Climate Foundation, United Kingdom

Jhanvi Tripathi, Associate Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India

Igor Makarov, Head, School of World Economy, Higher School of Economics, Russia

Moderator: 

Rachel Rizzo, Senior Fellow, Europe Center, Atlantic Council, United States of America

Somerset Hall

Reworking Ratings: Tackling Credit Bias in the Global South

Emerging markets are often subject to biases in international rating systems due to benchmarking not commensurate with their unique growth trajectories. This impacts investor confidence and has long-term implications for growth sectors.  CRAs tend to show subjectivity biases due to an over-dependence on 'general-purpose' indicators, not allowing for nuanced market understanding.

Speedtalk: 

Mehul Pandya, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer, CareEdge Ratings, India

Somerset Hall

Session 4 | State of Digitisation

Measuring growth and development has become a matter of contention with indicators set by the Global North not reflecting complicated realities in the Global South.  There has been an increasing distrust in these indicators, making it necessary that alternate methodologies and frameworks be ideated and discussed.  The ways to measure levels of digitalisation in economies have become obsolete compared to the parameters that impact digitalisation. This session will present new ways to measure digital growth and development through the CHIPS Framework which includes five pillars: Connect, Harness, Innovate, Protect, and Sustain. 

Driving questions:

• What are some things states miss when measuring the state of digitisation?
• How can the digital divide both within and amongst countries be addressed?
• How can new technologies be better diffused to ensure wider adaptation of digital public infrastructure?

Presenter: 

Deepak Mishra, Director and Chief Executive, Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations , India

Speakers: 

Marie Lou Papazian, Chief Executive Officer, TUMO Center for Creative Technologies, Armenia

Del Titus Bawuah, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Web 3 Africa Group, Ghana

Moderator:

Deepak Mishra, Director and Chief Executive, Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations, India

Somerset Hall

Session 5 | Of Oceans and Populations - Community First Approaches to the Blue Economy

Conversations around the Blue Economy have become progressively rhetoric-based with little being done to mobilise finance and protect communities. Coastal spaces and the attached livelihoods that emanate from the Blue Economy make it imperative that coastal populations and industries be front and centre during policymaking. It is no wonder the G20 Brasil started the Oceans20 engagement group to streamline conversations around the Oceans Agenda.

• How can coastal displacement caused by climate change be addressed? How can the environmental impacts of the use of marine resources be addressed to secure coastal zones?
• How can we achieve economic objectives without impacting the livelihoods of coastal populations involved in traditional activities?
• How can policies related to the blue economy be made more gender-sensitive to ensure women can be re-skilled or upskilled to benefit from new opportunities in the sector?
• Where do multilateral institutions come into play?

Speakers:
 
Olta Manjani, Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation, Albania

Dolapo Oluteye, Senior Research Fellow, Energy and Transport Policy, Energy Institute, University College London, United Kingdom

Thilan Wijesinghe, Chairman and Managing Director, TWCorp Pvt Ltd., Sri Lanka

Simone Smith-Godfrey, Founder, Blue Heritage Chamber of Commerce, South Africa

Moderator: 

Moira Feil, Head of Division Multilateral Development Policy, G20/G7, OECD/DAC, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Germany

Somerset Hall

In Conversation: Urban Futures in the Global South

The Global South faces a unique set of challenges in urban development, climate adaptation, and sustainable growth. Rapid urbanisation, socio-economic disparities, and heightened vulnerability to climate change necessitate a reimagining of how we plan, design, and govern our cities.

Driving Questions:

• How can the UNSDGs and other global frameworks be tailored to meet the specific urbanisation needs of the Global South?
• What are some of the strategies for enhancing urban resilience in the face of climate change?
  What are some of the cutting-edge approaches to urban planning and design that prioritize sustainability, equity, and inclusivity?
• How can governments support sustainable urban growth while addressing the socio-economic realities of their populations?

Speakers: 

Sebastian Delpino, Architect, S/D Architects; Professor, School of Architecture at Diego Portales University, Chile

Mariana Rondon, Programmes Director, Plataforma Cipó, Brazil 

Moderator: 

Dikshu Kukreja, Managing Principal, C P Kukreja Architects; Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Albania, India

Session 6 | Trailblazing Women: Shaping Entrepreneurship in the Global South

Women entrepreneurs in the Global South are catalysts for economic development and social transformation, breaking boundaries and building brighter futures for their communities. Despite their significant contributions, these women face challenges like socio-economic inequalities, cultural prejudices, and limited access to resources. It is essential to address these barriers while celebrating their successes and exploring pathways to enhance their impact. Women’s leadership at the grassroots level, particularly in Africa, is crucial for community well-being and inclusive growth. By supporting women-led initiatives, multilateral organisations can help reduce inequality and promote sustainable development.

Driving questions:

• How do cultural and societal factors affect the entrepreneurial journey of women in the Global South, and what strategies can overcome these barriers?
• What innovative methods can increase the visibility, market access, and scalability of women-led businesses in the Global South?
• How can ecosystems for women’s skilling and entrepreneurship be strengthened, particularly in the African context?

Speakers: 

Priscilla Gatonye, Programme Officer, UNESCO-UNEVOC

Bhuvan Bagga, Special Correspondent, South Asia Bureau, Agence France-Presse, India

Charlotte Rose, Founder and Director, North Star, Australia

Patricia Schmidt, Sustainability Consultant, Germany

Moderator: 

Soline Kauffmann-Tourkestansky, Co-Founder, Agōra AI, France

Grand Ball Room

Dinner Roundtable - Plurilateral Futures: The BRICS Roundtable (By-invite-only)

The successful conclusion of the BRICS Summit in Kazan has opened a new chapter in terms of cooperation for the grouping. The first full Summit of the expanded BRICS showed that the grouping is willing to cooperate on development and growth issues even as geopolitical differences may persist. 

• What makes BRICS more attractive to the global south than the G20 or other plurilateral bodies?
• What has BRICS expansion meant for re-ordering the multilateral system? 
• What are the issues that BRICS is uniquely placed to address vis-a-vis other multilateral groupings?

Speakers: 

Igor Makarov, Head, School of World Economy, Higher School of Economics, Russia

André de Mello e Souza, Head, International Policy Centre for Inclusive Development, Institute for Applied Economic Research, Brazil

Sarah Mosoetsa, Chief Executive Officer, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa

Tan Ya, Researcher and Deputy Director, BRICS Research Center, University of International Business and Economics, China

Khalil Shirgholami, Director General, Institute for Political and International Studies (IPIS), Iran

Ray Singh, Senior Director, Commercial Solutions for Sub-Saharan Africa, DP World, South Africa

Moderator: 

Shubh Soni, Head of Partnerships & Administration, Observer Research Foundation, India

Dinner

Somerset Hall

Red Eye | Reflections: Looking Back Looking Ahead

2024  has been a historic year with over 50 nations holding general elections. It has been a year of new and prolonged conflicts, and one where deep cleavages within societies were amplified. 2025 brings with it new promise and fresh anxieties with President Trump back in the White House.

For the Global South, peace and development are paramount interests, but multilateral cooperation has yet to deliver tangible results in this field. No serious reform agenda has been formulated for the multilateral system, leading to a chaotic world system that makes little progress on our shared challenges.

Driving questions:

• How does the transatlantic partnership navigate the electoral victory of President Trump? Will a second Trump-term resurrect old tensions, or is there scope for accommodation on both sides?
• The Global North’s predilection with old rivalries has put it in stark contrast to the Global South’s developmental priorities. Is there appetite among the Global North to refocus its priorities? Can the Global South step up, lead, and develop a global compact for the 21st century?
• Is plurilateralism, simply multilateralism 2.0, and a reality we must contend with for decades to come? Or is it simply a work around to our collective inability to reform existing multilateral institutions? 

Speakers:

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India

Gladden Pappin, President, Hungarian Institute of International Affairs, Hungary

Rachel Rizzo, Senior Fellow, Europe Center, Atlantic Council, United States of America

Sarah Mosoetsa, Chief Executive Officer, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa

Moderator: 

Kevin Baron, Journalist and Analyst, United States of America 

Somerset Hall

Session 8 | DPI-led Transformation: Stories from the Global South

India’s G20 presidency mainstreamed the idea of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and its role in accelerating development, especially in the Global South. Since then, many countries have explored the use of foundational DPIs—digital identities, real-time payment systems, and consent-based data exchange. While developing countries like India, Brazil, and Thailand, already have well-established DPIs, many countries are starting out or are in the early stages of deployment. This session will bring together learnings from different countries to highlight institutional changes, technological choices, change management strategies, regulatory interventions, etc. that drive the success or failure of DPI efforts in different countries The inherent design of DPIs encourages active private sector participation in terms of creating apps and solutions, and making continuous improvements to service delivery that empower users and drive customer adoption.

Driving Questions:

• What can be done during South Africa’s Presidency to rapidly move the agreed promise of DPI to action in the Global South and beyond?
• Large firms have designed ‘DPI in a box’ for rapid deployment. How is the innovation and market story shaping the conceptual and practical approach to DPI’s? 
• What geopolitical outcomes can the rapid deployment of DPI deliver? 

Speakers: 

Stephanie Diepeveen, Senior Research Fellow, ODI, Netherlands

Anagh Singh, Founding Member and Vice President, Platforms Policy and Operations, MountTech Growth FundKavachh, India

Jainaba Sowe, Public Relations Officer, Open Gambia Network, Gambia

Alison Gillwald, Executive Director, Research ICT Africa, South Africa

Moderator: 

Mansi Kedia, Senior Fellow, Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations, India

Somerset Hall

Session 9 | De-stressed economies: Resilient Infrastructure for Climate Smart Growth

Building inclusive and resilient infrastructure for the world's eight billion people who depend on it is essential in a world where climate vulnerability affects every corner. Yet, financing for loss and damage remains one of the most significant barriers, especially for climate-stressed economies and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which face disproportionate risks. This session will explore innovative approaches to creating sustainable financial flows that empower infrastructure development worldwide.

Driving Questions:

• How can inclusive infrastructure planning ensure climate-resilient development benefits all, especially vulnerable communities?
• ⁠How can Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and the private sector join forces? Can market mechanisms and credit instruments, such as green bonds, climate finance, and loss and damage funds, be effectively leveraged?
• Can debt stress be mitigated and balance sheets be adapted for climate-stressed economies to address the urgent need for infrastructure resilience and the structural economic challenges unique to SIDS and smaller economies?

Speakers:

Rajeev Gowda, Chairman, Research Department and Former Member of Parliament, Indian National Congress, India 

Riatu Qibthiyyah, Director, Institute for Economic and Social Research, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Indonesia, Indonesia

Ornela Çuçi, General Director, Eco-Movement, Albania

Soumya Bhowmick, Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India

Moderator: 

Kirtbir Chahal, Head, Africa and Middle East Infrastructure Partnerships, Department for Business and Trade, His Majesty’s Government, United Kingdom

Somerset Hall

Session 10 | Moving Business - Ports, Paths, and Progress

The lack of connectivity on the African continent has been a serious impediment to trade in the region. Similar drawbacks are found in connecting African countries to the rest of the world. Geographically, the continent is ideally located to be the transit gateway between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. 
Reassessing the welfare effects of greater connectivity is the need of the hour. 

• Will greater connectivity have a welfare effect and bring stability to the region?
• How can enough assets be mobilised such that intra-African and international connectivity projects work in tandem on the continent?
• Is the political risk too high for businesses?
• How can governments and businesses ensure that these infrastructure projects do not come at the cost of further environmental destruction?

Speakers: 

Donald Selelo Selamolela, Chairperson, Portfolio Committee on Transport, Parliament of South Africa

Konstantinos Foutzopoulos, Executive Director and Co-Founder, Thessaloniki Regional Forum, Thessaloniki Regional Forum, Greece

Ray Singh, Senior Director: Commercial Solutions for sub-Saharan Africa, DP World, South Africa

Moderator: 

Jackline Kagume, Programme Officer, Constitution, Law and Economy Program, Institute of Economic Affairs, Kenya

Somerset Hall

Session 11 | Rebalanced Globalization: Advancing Reform through Global South G20 Leadership

With the rise of the Global South, the prevailing paradigm of globalisation is increasingly being challenged. The next period of the global economy—a rebalanced globalization—will require leadership from countries of the Global South to refocus on pressing developmental challenges facing the world today. These include reforming and empowering multilateral development institutions, energy transition and climate action, inclusive digitalisation, debt sustainability and sustainable financing to achieve the SDGs. As the G20 leadership transitions through India, Brazil, and South Africa, and with the African Union inducted as a full member of the group, ensuring continuity in these priorities will be vital for a rebalanced globalisation that addresses concerns critical to the Global South countries.

Driving Questions

• What are the key imbalances in the current globalisation paradigm and how can the Global South address them?
• How can the Global South translate global commitments such as the Pact of the Future and the Global Digital Compact, and a potential Global Health Compact, into impactful initiatives that advance the goals of Agenda 2030?
• How has Brazil’s presidency built on the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration and advanced its G20 goals of inclusion and sustainability and what are the priorities for South Africa?

Speakers:

Sato Takayuki, Resident Executive Officer & Regional Head for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Japan Bank of International Cooperation, Japan

Pamla Gopaul, Head, Policy Bridge Tank Programme, Economic Analysis and Foresight Unit, African Union Development Agency, South Africa

Riatu Qibthiyyah, Director, Institute for Economic and Social Research, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Indonesia, Indonesia

Almir Nascimento, Director of the International Relations Research Institute, Alexandre de Gusmão Foundation (FUNAG), Brazil

Moderator: 

Anit Mukherjee, Senior Fellow, ORF America, United States of America

Lunch

Somerset Hall

Session 12 | Can the Global South Come Together to Accelerate MDB Reforms?

While the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) claim to have embarked on significant reforms to become better, bigger, and more effective, the outcomes of their effort continue to fall short of expectations. One of the constraints has been the unwillingness of the major shareholders to encourage and facilitate the harmonisation of operating procedures across MDBs. In contrast, borrowers of MDBs have often restrained from speaking on this matter, and when they do, their views are not in unison. In fact, the developing countries within the G20 hold different views on the matter of MDB reforms compared to the harmonised view of the G7. This session will explore the role that borrowing countries could play, and how South Africa can mobilise their voice through its G20 presidency, to fast-track MDB reforms.
 
Driving Questions:

• How the developing countries can come together under the auspice of South Africa’s G20 Presidency to give the much-needed push to fast-track MDB reforms?
• What can be done to ensure major stakeholders can agree to harmonise standards and operating processes across MDBs?
• How can MDBs themselves involve and engage with Global South more effectively in formulating their reform plans?
• How can policymakers, academia, the private sector and civil society in the Global South contribute to this agenda?
   

Speakers:

Balázs Sárvári, Senior Lecturer, Corvinus University of Budapest, Hungary, Research Fellow, Budapest Metropolitan University

M. Sait Akman, Director for G20 Studies Center, Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkey (TEPAV), Türkiye 

Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Chief Executive, South African Institute of International Affairs, South Africa

Bambang Permadi Brodjonegoro, Professor, Institute for Economics and Social Research, University of Indonesia, Indonesia
 
Moderator:

Tanu Goyal, Senior Fellow, Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations, India

Session 13 | Diminishing Distances: From Cape Sao Roque to the Cape of Good Hope

The primacy of the Global South as a geopolitical and geo-economic actor has been underlined by successive G20 presidencies, from Indonesia to India to Brazil, and with South Africa now taking the mantle. Yet the agenda of global governance reform—essential to rebalance international institutions and reflect the realities of the 21st century—remains incomplete. However, despite geographic distances, the Global South is brought together by much larger and tangible concerns. For the Global South, peace and development are paramount interests: but multilateral cooperation is yet to deliver tangible results in this field. 

• In such a chaotic international system, how can we ensure continuity in issues between the consecutive Global South presidencies of the G20? 
• What could be the specific areas where South Africa could lead a more action-oriented charge on common development issues? 
• What policy gaps persist in the G20 and how can they be filled?
• How can the AU be better engaged? 

Speakers:

Luciana Muniz, Project Director, Brazilian Center for International Relations (CEBRI), Brazil

Malancha Chakrabarty, Senior Fellow and Deputy Director (Research), Observer Research Foundation, India

José María Francisco Otegui Álvarez, Coordinator, International Organizations and G20 Committee, Argentine Council of International Relations (CARI), Argentina

Max Boqwana, Chief Executive Officer, Thabo Mbeki Foundation, South Africa 

Moderator: 

Bonolo Makgale, Programme Manager, Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, South Africa

Session 14 | Paths to Peace

Action 13 of the newly adopted Pact of the Future reaffirms the interdependence of international peace and security, sustainable development and human rights. It further emphasises the need to strengthen resilience and comprehensively address the drivers and root causes of armed conflict, violence and instability as well as equal access to justice and the proportionate investment in military spending vis-à-vis development investments. For Africa, this quest for peace remains an aspiration despite the progress made over the past two decades. In fact, the recent resurgence of military coups and renewed conflict, especially in the Sahel region, have further impacted the sustaining peace agenda on the continent.

Driving Questions:

• Are there ways to fix the current international system or does the hypocrisy at their core have no solution?
• How can Africa refocus collective attention and intervention to address structural drivers of insecurity?
• What are the specific factors required to build collective leadership from within the continent to advance sustainable peace and security?
• Is Africa experiencing a new age of governance amid ongoing internal and geopolitical shifts and, how can these shifts be transformed into opportunities for peace?
• What role do the African Union and Regional Economic Communities play in renewing an African agenda for peace?

Speakers: 

Tony Abbott, Former Prime Minister of Australia

Ana Miguel dos Santos, Former Member of European Parliament, Portugal

Anthoni van Nieuwkerk, Professor, Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs, South Africa

Latha Reddy, Co-Chairman, Global Commission on Stability of Cyberspace, India

Moderator: 

Sanusha Naidu, Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Global Dialogue, South Africa

Somerset Hall

Valedictory Address

Paul Mashatile, Deputy President, Republic of South Africa

Somerset Hall

Closing Remarks & Vote of Thanks

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India

Max Boqwana, Chief Executive Officer, Thabo Mbeki Foundation, South Africa

Free Evening (17:30 PM onwards)

Post-2030 Agenda: Crafting a New Development Paradigm

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have shaped global priorities, but the world remains far from meeting them. As multiple crises stall progress, a resilient, equitable, and adaptable development approach is essential beyond 2030 to address emerging global challenges.

• How can we dismantle global barriers to equitable access and opportunities, especially for marginalised communities?
• What strategies can strengthen economies against geopolitical, economic, and environmental shocks?
• How can we reform multilateral institutions to bridge development gaps, align private-sector incentives with social goals, and support sustained growth in the Global South?

Olta Manjani, Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation.
 
Bambang Permadi Brodjonegoro, Professor, Institute for Economics and Social Research, University of Indonesia, Indonesia
 
Ignacio Munyo, Chief Executive Officer, CERES, Uruguay
 
Moderator: 

Philani Mthembu, Executive Director, Institute for Global Dialogue, South Africa

Building Digital Trust: Securing a Connected World

As connectivity expands, so do cyber threats, privacy concerns, and ethical challenges in technology. Building digital trust is essential for a secure and inclusive digital landscape, relying on resilient infrastructure, ethical data governance, and accessible technology.

• What actions can help bridge the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to digital technologies and the internet, especially in developing regions?
• How can nations and organisations create resilient digital infrastructures safeguarded against cyberattacks, data breaches, and other security risks?
• What frameworks can be established to leverage digital public infrastructure for economic growth, social development, and improved public services in underserved regions?

Stephanie Diepeveen, Senior Research Fellow, ODI, United Kingdom
 
Bassant Hassib, Non-Resident Scholar, Strategic, Technologies and Cyber Security Program, Middle East Institute, United Arab Emirates
 
Moderator:  

Asela Waidyalankara, Managing Director, Talos Consulting, Sri Lanka

Africa Rising: Seizing Opportunities in the 21st Century

Africa's rapid demographic growth, abundant resources, and evolving political landscape make it a focal point for global economic growth and innovation. As the world shifts its gaze toward this rising giant, Africa’s potential as a hub for trade, technology, and sustainable development continues to grow, presenting challenges and unparalleled investment opportunities.

• How can African nations leverage their human capital to drive inclusive economic growth?
• What strategies are essential to strengthen governance and accountability, ensure political stability, and attract sustainable investment?
• How can Africa position itself as a global leader in sustainable practices, especially climate resilience and green energy?

Moussa Mara, Former Prime Minister of Mali
 
John Kayode Fayemi, Pioneer President, Forum of Regions of Africa
 
Moderator: 

Kirtbir Chahal, Head, Africa and Middle East Infrastructure Partnerships, Department for Business and Trade, His Majesty’s Government, United Kingdom

Lunch

The Great Transition: Navigating the Shift to Renewables

As the world transitions from fossil fuels to renewables, economies, environmental policies, and energy security are significantly shifting. This change brings challenges and opportunities, from climate action and economic transformation to ensuring fair support for impacted communities.

• How can governments and industries ensure an equitable energy transition, supporting workers and communities impacted by the move away from fossil fuels?
• What socio-economic challenges do countries face in transitioning to renewables, and which policies can help ensure a smooth transition?
• How can international collaboration advance renewable energy technology development and accessibility worldwide?

Igor Makarov, Head, School of World Economy, Higher School of Economics, Russia 

Jordan Mc Lean, Researcher, Climate and Natural Resources Programme, South African Institute of International Affairs
 
Moderator: 

Soumya Bhowmick, Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India

The Final Countdown: Responding to the Summit of the Future

With pressing global issues like climate change, inequality, and technological disruption at a critical juncture, the Summit of the Future calls for renewed commitments and transformative action. Strategic responses are essential to ensure the summit’s resolutions become concrete actions with measurable impacts.

• How can global leaders and institutions ensure the Summit of the Future outcomes translate into meaningful, actionable policies?
• What mechanisms are needed to hold nations and stakeholders accountable for meeting the sustainability, equity, and resilience goals?
• How can partnerships across sectors and regions ensure inclusive benefits and long-term impact?

Malancha Chakrabarty, Senior Fellow and Deputy Director (Research), Observer Research Foundation, India
 
Yose Rizal Damuri, Executive Director, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Indonesia
 
Moderator: 

Jenny Mander, Professor, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom

Resilient Healthcare Systems: Lessons from the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical gaps in healthcare systems, underscoring the need for resilience, equity, and innovation. Lessons learned highlight strategies to strengthen healthcare for future crises, including integrating innovation, ensuring equitable access, and fostering international collaboration for global health security.

• What critical lessons on preparedness and response have emerged from the pandemic, and how can they guide healthcare for future crises?
• How can healthcare systems integrate innovative technologies and practices to build resilience and adapt swiftly to emerging challenges?
• What policies and strategies are essential to make healthcare services accessible and equitable, particularly in rural and underserved communities?

Swabhavika Singh, Public Health Medicine Physician, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
 
Ishita Barua, Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer, Livv Health, Norway
 
Moderator: 

Vanshica Kant, Climate, Human & Social Development Expert, Asian Development Bank

EdTech: The Future is Here

Educational technology revolutionises learning by making education more accessible, personalised, and interactive. From AI-driven tutoring to immersive virtual classrooms, EdTech is reshaping how knowledge is delivered and acquired, offering new opportunities to bridge educational gaps in the Global South and meet diverse learner needs.

• How can EdTech tools be used to create equitable access to quality education across different regions?
• What role does personalised learning play in enhancing student engagement and outcomes through technology?
• How can educators and policymakers ensure EdTech innovations are effectively integrated into traditional learning environments?

Marie Lou Papazian, Chief Executive Officer, TUMO Center for Creative Technologies, Armenia
 
Selma Talha-Jebril, Director, Qatar Foundation, Qatar
 
Moderator:

Carolina Chimoy, Journalist, Deutsche Welle

Feeding the World: Towards Climate-Resilient Agriculture

The global food system faces increasing pressures from climate change, population growth, and resource limitations. Sustainable agricultural practices, technological innovation, and robust policy frameworks are vital to secure resilient and environmentally sound food systems.

• What sustainable agricultural practices best enhance food security while ensuring environmental sustainability across diverse regions?
• How can technological innovations increase food production, improve resource efficiency, and reduce agricultural waste?
• How can international policy frameworks promote sustainable agriculture and support global food security?

Stefania Petruzzelli, Independent Researcher, Italy
 
Judith Mwaniki, Livelihoods and Food Security Specialist, Consortium for Economic Research and Development Studies, Kenya
 
Moderator:

Isibor Aigbe Oaikhinan, Manager, Legal Services Department, Central Bank of Nigeria. 

The Start-up Generation: Unleashing Youth-Led Innovation

A new generation of youth-driven start-ups is transforming economies in Africa and the Global South, addressing both local and global challenges through technology and innovation. These young entrepreneurs are pioneering solutions in fields from fintech to agritech while reshaping job markets, boosting resilience, and promoting sustainable development.

• How can youth-led start-ups harness technology to tackle social and economic issues while scaling their impact globally?
• What roles should governments, investors, and development organisations play in creating a supportive ecosystem for these entrepreneurs?
• How can start-ups contribute to inclusive growth, ensuring their innovations benefit underserved communities and advance sustainable development across the region?

Sixit Bhatta, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Tootle, Nepal
 
Soline Kauffmann-Tourkestansky, Co-Founder, Agōra AI, France
 
Moderator: 

Latha Reddy, Co-Chairman, Global Commission on Stability of Cyberspace, India 

New Voices, New Structures: Towards Equitable International Finance

The Global South's financial future demands urgent attention as nations grapple with high debt distress and limited fiscal space for development and climate financing. Beyond ensuring financial stability, the focus must shift to amplifying these economies’ voices in shaping global economic policies.

• How can we better address Global South countries’ unique challenges and aspirations by enhancing their representation in multilateral financial institutions?
• What reforms in sovereign debt frameworks are essential to alleviate debt distress and unlock financial resources for climate action and sustainable development?
• What role should multilateral organisations and domestic governments play in bolstering development financing, particularly in Africa?

Chayu Damsinghe, Head, Macroeconomic Advisory, Frontier Research, Sri Lanka
 
Riatu Qibthiyyah, Director, Institute for Economic and Social Research, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Indonesia, Indonesia
 
Moderator: 

André de Mello e Souza, Head, International Policy Centre for Inclusive Development, Institute for Applied Economic Research, Brazil

Lunch

Strategic Seascapes: Security, Connectivity, and Development in the Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific’s stability hinges on security, sustainable connectivity, and inclusive development. Balancing these priorities is essential to address geopolitical tensions, ensure resilient trade routes, and foster collaborative growth, impacting both regional players and African partners.

• How do international legal frameworks and diplomatic initiatives reduce conflicts and foster cooperation across the Indo-Pacific?
• How do economic imperatives and environmental challenges shape the governance and sustainability of maritime routes in the Indo-Pacific?
• How will Africa's engagement in the Indo-Pacific region influence its maritime security, economic interests, and Sustainable Development Goals?

Tony Abbott, Former Prime Minister of Australia
 
In conversation with 

Sharon Stirling, Chief Operating Officer, ORF America, United States of America

Trump 2.0: What Can Europe Expect?

With Trump serving his second term, Europe faces renewed challenges in transatlantic relations, with potential shifts in security, trade, and global alliances. The return of “America First” policies may test Europe's strategies for autonomy and collaboration in an evolving geopolitical landscape.

• How will Trump's second term impact Europe’s approach to transatlantic security, including NATO and defence cooperation?
• What adjustments will European countries need in trade, economic policy, and global competition under renewed U.S. protectionism?
• How can Europe reinforce its strategic autonomy to navigate shifts in U.S. foreign policy and global alliances?

Andrej Čuš,  Former Member of Parliament and Former State Secretary, Ministry of Economic Economic Development and Technology
 
Ana Miguel dos Santos, Former Member of the European Parliament
 
Moderator: 

Bhuvan Bagga, Special Correspondent, Agence France-Presse, India

War, Peace & AI: Reimagining 21st Century Defence & Security Architecture

Artificial intelligence is transforming defence and security, introducing new possibilities and risks that require careful governance. As AI reshapes warfare and peacekeeping, international collaboration and ethical frameworks are essential to ensure security innovations support global stability and human rights.

• How can nations establish ethical guidelines for AI use in defence while addressing security and humanitarian concerns?
• What role does international cooperation play in regulating AI-driven military technologies to prevent conflict escalation?
• How can AI enhance defence capabilities, and what safeguards are needed to protect civilian safety and privacy?

Paruyr Abrahamyan, Chief Executive Officer, Zeel AI, Armenia
 
Emmanuel Reinert, Chief Executive Officer, RainDefense +AI, United Arab Emirates
 
Moderator: 

Julia De Clerck-Sachsse, Visiting Senior Fellow, German Marshall Fund of the United States, United States of America