In 2023, the world saw a record surge in displaced people, wars raging across continents, and a global economy teetering on the edge. But amid the geopolitical turbulence, experts from the World Economic Forum’s Global Futures Council on Geopolitics argue that collaboration is still possible. Their report, Shaping Cooperation in a Fragmenting World, identifies four key areas where global cooperation can thrive—even in a divided world.
- Global Security
Trust is scarce in today’s world, but history shows that even fierce rivals can cooperate. The Cold War is proof that with the right diplomacy, even the tensest standoffs can be de-escalated. The report calls for middle powers (like Brazil, India, and the UAE) to step up as brokers of peace, offering solutions when the superpowers can’t.
2. Climate Change
With climate change impacting every corner of the globe, the current governance model needs an overhaul. Developed countries may have been the primary polluters historically, but future emissions are concentrated in the Global South. To tackle this, a focus on increasing investments in these regions and empowering local tech solutions is vital. Women-led initiatives should also spearhead societal efforts in tackling climate impacts.
3. Emerging Technology
As tech advances at breakneck speed, ensuring it doesn’t spiral out of control requires global innovation in policy-making. Just like the UN’s Responsibility to Protect (R2P) civilians from war crimes, a new global regulatory framework should protect people from the dangers of unchecked technology.
4. International Trade
The future of trade must be aligned with global priorities, particularly in helping least-developed countries tap into the global value chain. Trade systems should focus on shared benefits, addressing economic imbalances, and resisting the urge to turn trade into a geopolitical battleground.
The Key to Success? Inclusivity
Across all these areas, the solution lies in inclusivity—amplifying voices from diverse, previously marginalized communities to shape the future of global cooperation.
Despite the chaos, there’s still hope for a more connected world—if we work together.
Click to read more: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/01/pathways-cooperation-geopolitical-fragmentation/
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