After over a decade in power, Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, spurred by a wave of youth-led protests, marks a pivotal turning point for Bangladesh. The country’s young population, increasingly vocal and influential, played a critical role in shaping this outcome, signaling a new era of potential transformation for the nation.  In this session, we will address how young activists, and future leaders can play a role in the political renewal of the country and shape its governance in the aftermath of a political era marked by strongman leadership. We will discuss the prospects for a political transition including democratic reform, the challenges of establishing an interim government, and the path toward a more inclusive political future. Panelists, including Bangladeshi activists, international lawyers, and political experts will discuss how Bangladesh can strengthen its democratic institutions while preventing political violence and authoritarian backsliding and ask how domestic actors and international partners can help guide Bangladesh towards a stable political future. 

 

In partnership with: Jagoron Foundation 

The session will be guided by Dr. Safwan Masri, Dean of Georgetown University in Qatar. 

 

This session will examine the ICC and ICJ's capabilities to engage with ongoing conflicts, considering legal frameworks, jurisdictional limitations, and the need for international cooperation. It will emphasize the importance of global participation in governance to maintain peace and security, protect human rights, and ensure accountability for international crimes. 

Conflict dynamics in the Middle East have seen significant shifts over the last months.  The ‘Axis of Resistance’ which includes Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, Hamas in Palestine and groups in Syria and Iraq, together tied to Iran – have been collaborating in a transnational way.  Their activities, interconnectivity and cooperation across borders is bearing out at the expense of economic and regional stability and populations’ security across the region.  This closed-door session will examine the goals and motivations of these groups and assess what local, regional and international mechanisms can be used to promote accountability. 

In partnership with: Chatham House

Pressing global challenges like pandemics, climate change, food insecurity, and water scarcity, are magnifying the need for international cooperation.  Too often though, advanced technology is protected as a national resource, sowing divisions and distrust and creating barriers to advancing work on global crises.  

Innovation diplomacy offers a powerful tool by leveraging advancements in scientific research and technological development to promote dialogue, collaboration, and problem-solving between nations.  As seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, accelerated collaboration between regulators, scientists, and industries across borders opened new avenues for international cooperation. 

This panel will ask how we can reframe thinking around advancements in technology and what is needed to put innovation diplomacy into practice.  Experts from industry, government and science will weigh in on the potential avenues for cooperation as well as the roles non-state actors can play.  

Around the world, rapid technological advancements are reshaping work, creating new opportunities while presenting significant challenges. This session, hosted in partnership with the International Labour Organization, will explore how these innovations can enhance productivity and working conditions while raising vital questions about labor market disruptions and evolving skill requirements. By addressing issues like lifelong learning, inclusive labor policies, and transparent HR strategies, participants will delve into the pathways for achieving a just digital transition. The discussion will also cover how technology can bridge skill gaps, support fair workforce strategies, and unlock new forms of work.

 

 

In partnership with: Stockholm International Peace Research Institute