What are the biggest threats facing America in the next four years? Will states be more concerning than non-state actors? How can the next President craft a “smart” national security strategy integrating all levers of American power? Will technology – from IOT to drones – impact foreign and domestic policy? Are government-to-government efforts enough anymore, and how can the private sector be better integrated into the national security apparatus? Please join us for a plenary discussion with two of the most well-respected experts in the national security field: Former Congresswoman Jane Harman, Director, President & CEO of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; and Gen. (Ret.) David Petraeus, Chairman of the KKR Institute and former CIA Director.
Since the rise of the self-declared Islamic State, world powers have united in waging a campaign to defeat the group, yet are we winning the war against ISIS? Today, the unintended consequences of the war on terror have generated a new and unexpected reality including political and social tensions, which feed into ISIS propaganda and have left people across the region in desperation and without hope. Panelists will provide an understanding of the evolving threat of ISIS and other extremist groups while addressing: the threat involvement in combating ISIS as well as the unintended consequences of the war on terrorism, and what implications these have on US and international policymakers and the incoming US president.
In a 2013 report by the American Society of Civil Engineers, the United States received an average rating of D+ across the report card’s eight criteria. This barely passing result not only reflects the state of infrastructure across the country, but also reveals the opportunity for innovation and improvement that exists. The Society estimates that $3.6 trillion in investment is needed by 2020 to repair America’s crumbling infrastructure. From energy and transit, to bridges and ports, the public and private sector are in a prime position to provide both social and economic impact for generations to come. Participants in this session will discuss: What have been the challenges to proposed infrastructure improvement projects in the United States? What obstacles exist to public-private collaboration? What policy priorities related to infrastructure should take precedence for the incoming President of the United States? How are America’s ambitions to become a leading energy producer burdened by the current state of internal infrastructure? How can best practices for partnership development in foreign countries be applied to the US? How can innovative technology be best utilized to create more cost effective solutions?
The Index was developed as a tool for public, private, and nonprofit organizations to evaluate partnership opportunities across industry sectors. The Index ranks countries based on their readiness and need to engage in public-private partnerships (P3s). While the success of a P3 depends on a country’s political and market structures, the Index recognizes that for a P3 to be truly impactful it must address a large-scale need. The inclusion of the need indicators that assesses a country’s need for P3 is unique and thus, sets the Index apart from other tools that measure P3 environments.
The Power of Big Data and Psychographics In this 10 minute presentation, Mr. Alexander Nix will discuss the power of big data in global elections Cambridge Analytica’s revolutionary approach to audience targeting, data modeling, and psychographic profiling has made them a leader in behavioral microtargeting for election processes around the world.
It seems that now, more than ever before, American voters have made clear their desire to change the status quo. On issues ranging from immigration and trade, to gender equality and education reform, voters of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds have voiced their dissatisfaction and intolerance for business as usual. Even U.S. President Barack Obama himself has admitted, “the tone of our politics hasn’t gotten better, but worse.” These widespread sentiments call for a change in national politics at a level requiring a comprehensive overhaul of the way the current political system is functioning. As House Speaker Paul Ryan noted in his recent address on the state of American politics, we must aim to be governed “through debate, not disorder.” The 2016 presidential election in particular has raised issues that challenge the very core of what it means to be part of American society. The election has raised important topics for debate, but too often, the rhetoric surrounding these topics has been inflammatory in nature and has created deep divides in the political spectrum. Unless repaired, these divides will have far reaching effects beyond our borders, and will have immense impact on the United States’ international political and economic relations. This session will feature a panel of two Republican and two Democratic United States Senators, engaging in a dialogue on the current state of American politics. The panelists will aim to suggest potential paths for collaboration across the political spectrum to address the most pressing issues facing our country today.
We are witnessing a paradigm shift in how the world finances solutions to global challenges. Development institutions are working with both the private sector and large public funds to mobilize capital to advance their objectives. At the same time, large asset owners are recognizing how strategic investments in social impact can reduce volatility and enhance risk-adjusted returns over the long-term. This session will focus on how sovereign funds, institutional asset owners, and policymakers can harness new investment strategies to achieve positive social outcomes alongside attractive financial returns. Join Dr. Anne-Marie Slaughter, Dr. Tomicah Tillemann, and senior leaders from the investment and business community as they discuss how making investments that further the SDGs is not only the right thing to do, but also the smart thing to do for long-term investors.
Energy plays a paramount role in growing economies, advancing stable and democratic political regimes, and protecting the environment for tomorrow’s needs. The future of energy – its availability, quality, sustainability, and the politics around it – represents a pan-American challenge. It is also a multi-sector challenge, and cannot be addressed by just one stakeholder. A public-private partnership (P3) approach is necessary to insure that the growing energy needs of the Americas are met in a way that balances conventional and renewable energy sources and takes into account both sustainability and economic considerations.
Water underpins the health, wealth and security of the world. However, a recent study found more than four billion people, or two-thirds of the world’s population, face severe water shortages for at least one month of the year. Half of these four billion people live in either China or India and the majority of the remaining two billion live mostly in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, Mexico, and the western and southern parts of the United States. This global systemic risk was confirmed by more than 750 heads of state, CEOs and civic leaders who, for the second straight year, ranked water as a top global risk to industry and society for the next decade. In addition, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and World Bank estimated the global costs of achieving adequate and equitable water and sanitation is approximately $114 billion per year from 2015 to 2030. Climate change is a threat multiplier and will likely increase the resources needed to address these global water challenges. While water challenges are significant across the world, they are solvable. Doing so will require elevating water as a global priority. This would unlock innovation and resources from national governments, private sector, universities and civil society as new partnerships form to solve these global water challenges. This session will feature a discussion among leaders who will share insights on how to build a more water secure future for all.
Arizona State University’s Public Service Academy (PSA) is a collaborative leadership development program that trains military and civilian national service leaders, side-by-side, to work across sectors—military, government, private, and nonprofit—to take on the country’s most complex challenges. The PSA’s Next Generation Service Corps (NGSC) brings to life founding author Tom Brokaw’s vision for a national network of public service academies that provide citizens with an opportunity to serve our country. The NGSC develops adaptive leaders charged with driving positive impact locally and globally NGSC leaders are armed with the courage to cross sectors, connect networks and ignite action for the greater good. This conversation will focus on how the ASU PSA became a reality and how others, whether government institutions, corporations, organizations, or civil society, can help reignite our national commitment to service.
As the job market grows increasingly competitive, employers look for an ever-expanding list of skills from potential candidates. This changing workforce landscape offers institutions of higher learning a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation as academia evolves to prepare graduates to meet the demands of a dynamic job market. This session will explore the future of higher education, highlighting the role of partnerships in education and how academic institutions can embrace technology to further their mission. Presidents from some of the most innovative universities and colleges across the country will come together to discuss how creative partnerships can be utilized to provide high quality education that prepares the next generation for their future careers. Panelists will address questions such as: What skills do employers value in college graduates? How can universities incorporate those skills into their curricula? What experiences should college students pursue to prepare themselves for the job market? How can universities incorporate technology to make academia more engaging?
Havana Archbishop Cardinal Jaime Ortega y Alamino was a key figure in the secret negotiations that led to the restoration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba in the last year. He hand-delivered messages from Pope Francis to Barack Obama and Raul Castro, engaged Cuban officials through behind-the-scenes lobbying, and used the church’s platform for effective diplomacy. A conversation between the current Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis and Archbishop Ortega will illuminate the story behind the restoration of diplomatic relations between the U S and Cuba. These two pivotal figures will discuss the future between the two nations and highlight the need for 21st century diplomacy in a world fraught with regional tensions.
Market actors in today’s global economy are faced with volatility across sectors and geographies. Understanding the implications of political developments is critical in creating effective business strategies to mitigate financial and repetitional risks. This session will examine the business effects of political integration and disintegration, address geopolitical challenges to business as usual, and explore the complexities of operating a truly global business.
STRATEGIC DIALOGUE ON HUMANE AND SECURE GLOBAL FOOD SUPPLY Chair: Sue Ann Arnall, President, Arnall Family FoundationAssembly Chair: Hanne Dalmut, Director of Social Impact, Concordia Ethical and Humane Food Supply Conversation Leads: Steve McIvor, CEO, World Animal Protection; Wayne Pacelle, CEO, Humane Society of the United States; Alisa Gravitz, CEO & President, Green America 70 billion animals are farmed annually for global food consumption and the majority of meat eaters – some national studies reporting up to 95% – are interested in animal welfare. This is impacting purchasing and consumption patterns, and driving a market for animal welfare certifications. What role does the private sector have in advancing the standard for these certifications, and how can they in good faith balance consumer expectations with production costs? How can we better measure the economic angle to animal welfare? This discussion will analyze existing certification standards, and identify gaps or challenges between expectation and reality alongside industry trends in animal treatment in the food industry GMOs, Sustainable Farming, and Feeding the Future Conversation Lead: Willy Foote, Founder and CEO, Root Capital; Jesus Madrazo, Vice President of Global Corporate Engagement, Monsanto; Walker Morris, CEO, Clinton Development Initiative The United Nations projects the global population to reach 8.5 billion in 2030. What advancements in farming are necessary over the next 15 years to meet the world's food supply needs? Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) enable the food production industry to expand crop output, feeding a growing and hungry global population. At the same time, their long-term health implications remain unknown, and several countries have significantly restricted or banned their use. Sustainable farming techniques also offer new solutions to food supply concerns, but have not been globally adopted. There is a space for collaboration between farmers and organizations working to promote environmentally conscious practices. This session aims to discuss challenges and solutions to feeding a global population, as well as policies that could shape the future of food security and sustainable food solutions. The Biggest Thing Since Sliced Bread: Trends and TechnologyConversation Leads: Joyjit Deb Roy, Vice President, Winrock International; Bruce Friedrich, Executive Director, Good Food Institute; Shen Tong, Founder, Food Future Inc. The US Department of Agriculture predicts global meat production will increase by 1 percent this year – a trend that, if it continues, would negatively impact food sustainability. Livestock plays a central role in food security by providing food, employment, and income. However, livestock can also negatively affect food security, in consuming a growing proportion of the world’s crops that could otherwise be used for direct human nutrition. At the same time, new investments and technologies are beginning to revolutionize the farming and meat industries. Promising plant-based and “clean” alternatives to agriculture offer additional avenues to a sustainable food supply. This session aims to discuss new trends in the food research and consumption space.
Assembly Chair: Damon Wilson, Executive Vice President, Atlantic Council The recent stresses facing the European continent are as varied as they are pervasive. From the burgeoning refugee crisis to the rise of populist parties to the impending exit of Britain from the European Union, the risk of European disintegration is real. The first half of 2017 will be a truly pivotal time in Europe, as it readjusts to the impacts of the French, German, and American elections. This Strategic Dialogue will serve as a precursor, idea incubator, and partnership developer in lead up to a future Concordia Summit to be held in Europe in Spring 2017. The discussion will feature agenda items that include migration and refugee integration, corruption and transparency measures, climate change and energy, trade and investment, as well as impact of the Brexit and future of the European Union.
Co-Chairs: Susan Braun, The Hon. Nancy Brinker, & Eric T. Rosenthal This Strategic Dialogue will bring together a select group key players in cancer research, from heads of national cancer centers to leading policymakers. Participants will discuss the landscape of cancer challenges, identify opportunities for potential partnerships, and share insights into best practices, lessons learned, and recommendations for elevating the global priority of the fight against cancer. Concordia hopes to create a community of distinguished stakeholders, where those active in the cancer research space and those who have transitioned to other phases in their career will have the opportunity to share their own knowledge and sage advice, regardless of affiliation. We hope to continue the conversation at future Concordia convenings, as we explore the potential of this topic to be a long-term priority for the organization.
Today, cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, and the most common cause of death among children in the United States. In 2015, Vice President Joe Biden called for a “Moonshot” to cure cancer, and at this year’s State of the Union, President Barack Obama tasked his administration with leading a new national mission to eliminate cancer as we know it. This Moonshot plans to support research opportunities such as prevention and cancer vaccine development, early cancer detection, immunotherapies, enhanced data sharing, genomic analysis, and pediatric cancer. This session will bring together leading experts to discuss cross-sector approaches to supporting research and enabling progress in the joint effort to address this global challenge.
It is estimated that 276,000 women around the world, over 85% in developing countries, die from cervical cancer every year. A majority of these women are in their childbearing and productive years (20-59) and in turn their deaths leave hundreds of thousands of children without mothers. More women now die of cervical cancer than of causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Over the last 30 years, cervical cancer deaths have dropped significantly in much of the developed world, but these rates continue to rise or remain unchanged in less developed countries. This global disparity is largely due to limited access of essential prevention, screening and treatment services in developing countries. Cervical cancer is preventable and curable at a very low cost. Strategic investments in deploying vaccines, and new screening and treatment technology will have dramatic impact on women and communities throughout Africa and the rest of the developing world. Project Concern International and Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon, an independent affiliate of the George W. Bush Institute, are partnering on a solution for cervical cancer to take screening and treatment directly to women who need it most. Project Concern International and Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon are starting their partnership in Zambia, and hope that it will reach across Africa supporting women’s health and providing the foundation for women reach their full economic and social potential.
Of all the things Shinola makes, American jobs might just be the thing they’re most proud of. Shinola, a Detroit- based company dedicated to producing American built products, has garnered a reputation for reinvigorating a storied American brand, and a storied American city. Tom Kartsotis, Shinola’s founder, believes in reshoring good, well-paying manufacturing jobs back to the United States by investing in the local workforce to build hand-made watches, bicycles, and leather goods. His presentation will emphasize the importance of workforce skills training while also highlighting the significant alignment between good business and social impact. This session will highlight the importance of reshoring American manufacturing jobs, emphasizing economic growth locally and nationally, and adding value to product label.
Many of the global challenges we face are too complex for one organization or industry alone to solve. More than ever before, future leaders will be required to understand the intricacies of a well-designed business model, while also being attune to the complexities of community relations, international affairs, and global development. Businesses ability to understand the importance of integrating shared value principles with traditional business strategies will be essential for success. In this plenary session, a leading corporate executive active in the social impact space and a leading head of a global nonprofit organization will join Scott Beardsley, the Dean of the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia to discuss the necessary balance between traditional business school curriculum and the incorporation of shared value principals, and what that means for business in society.
The only three countries in the world that do not provide paid maternity leave are Oman, Papua New Guinea, and the United States. In 1993, the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was first piece of legislation President Bill Clinton signed into office, guaranteeing 12 weeks of unpaid job-protected leave annually for events such as the birth of a child, which, at the time, aligned with global standards. However, over twenty years later, the FMLA leaves much to be desired, as the United States remains the only developed nation in the world that does not guarantee working mothers and fathers paid parental leave. What the President had previously called “a matter of pure common sense and a matter of common decency,” US policy makers have done little more to make American workplaces and our workforce more competitive, productive, and secure. This session would feature leading cross-sector advocates for maternal and paternal rights, discussing questions such as: How can the United States reach a national solution that ensures that all working families are able to take the time they need? What impact does paternity leave have on the increase of women in executive positions and female leadership? How can millennial workers drive corporate competition to include progressive parental leave policies? The tech industry has been leading the way in offering paid leave for new parents, what will catalyze this trend in other industries? While leadership from a small number of companies is important, is this a satisfactory substitute for government policy?
Please note, all Office Hours and Roundtables will take place on the 14th Floor boardroom level and are for members only. Prior to the Summit, you will have received your confirmed session and room location. https://www.concordia.net/2016-member-exclusive-sessions/
The purpose of conscious capitalism is more than just profit making. The tenets of this theory lie in serving the interests of all major stakeholders—customers, employees, investors, communities, suppliers, and the environment. By actively balancing the interests and concerns of all stakeholders, businesses are able to fulfill a higher purpose and create value for society, while also maintaining their bottom line. This session will discuss the business case for social responsibility, and why company profits and its potential to create positive social impact are not mutually exclusive. Participants in this session will discuss questions such as: Could the universal adoption of conscious capitalism be an antidote to income inequality? Are companies too focused on the outcome, the rat race and therefore bypassing values and ethics? How might mission-driven business models, such as that of Akola, be essential in cultivating and retaining valuable millennial employees now and into the future? Why are philanthropy and corporate social responsibility programs no longer sufficient in earning consumer loyalty?
In this conversation Nicholas Logothetis, Co-Founder of Concordia, and Ambassador Williams Burns, Former Deputy Secretary of State and President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, will discuss Ambassador Burns’ experiences and lessons gained during his time at the State Department, how the current administration can utilize its remaining months in the White House and the role of Iran in influencing American policy making in the Middle East. Once described by Secretary Kerry as “a diplomatic legend”, Ambassador Burns understands what challenges there are as a statesman and the resourcefulness required in making decisions and taking action with limited knowledge.
With the global population expanding and an exponential rate, the planet is using, consuming, and throwing away more and more stuff. Traditional societal structures with immediate environmental impact are being redefined to meet this expansion, from energy efficiency and water stewardship, to more efficient and user friendly waste disposal methods. Rubicon Global, a revolutionary leader in waste management and recycling solutions, is pioneering new technology increasing cost-efficiency and sustainability of waste disposal across industries Harnessing the innovative power of industry and encouraging forward-thinking public policy are essential in order to reach a zero-waste society in our generation. Participants in this session will discuss questions such as: To what extent can public policy be used to encourage changes in waste management and recycling? What changes are necessary to “business as usual” to achieve a zero-waste society? How can innovation across sectors mitigate the disproportionate impact of waste on underprivileged communities? As innovators are making the business case with both convincing social metrics and evidenced profit margins, what challenges are still being faced as socially conscious businesses reach scale? How is the “collaborative consumption” movement found more productive uses for underutilized assets? How is the sharing economy shaking up traditional business models? How can more corporations commit to sustainability by harnessing the power of private enterprise to create public benefit?
Join Americares and Concordia for a strategic discussion and reception: Addressing Threats to the Health Workforce Strategic Discussion: Developing collaborative solutions to threats facing the global health workforce, including conflicts, epidemics and daily occupational hazards.
Chair: Sebastian PineraAssembly Chair: Alicia Arango OlmosIn 2015, Latin American leaders identified corruption as the single most important challenge for the region, according to the World Economic Forum. With President Dilma Rousseff’s pending impeachment in Brazil, perpetuating gang violence in El Salvador, and Caracas operating as one of the most violent cities in the world, security issues have permeated most Latin American nations. As state security forces are deployed to address these crises, regional leadership must address corruptive practices that are impeding successfully functioning societies. The existential threat of corruption in combination with the lack of transparency and accountability has caused significant and detrimental repercussions to justice systems, human rights, and regional security. However, as society becomes more vocal about its desire to end corruptive practices and the media increasingly highlights this issue, Latin America is finally addressing this historically avoided issue and creating a movement to establish more secure and transparent governance. In follow up to the discussions held at Concordia | The Americas, participants in this session will discuss the regional implications of pervasive corruption in both the public and private sectors. This session will serve as a precursor, idea incubator, and partnership developer in lead up to a future Concordia Summit to be held in the region in 2017.
Water is an essential component of national and local economies, and is needed to create and maintain jobs across all sectors of the economy. Resilient water infrastructure improves living standards, expands local economies, and supports regional and national growth. However, around the world, critical water infrastructure is deteriorating while we face increasing threats from climate change. The U.S. EPA estimates that approximately 240,000 water mains break every year leaking trillions of gallons of treated drinking water. In addition, billions of gallons of raw sewage are discharged into local surface waters from aging wastewater infrastructure every year. The American Society of Civil Engineers estimates it would cost $2.1 trillion to replace all pipes today, or $1 trillion spread over twenty five years. Not only is this causing a financial strain on local economies, but aging infrastructure in the U.S. is creating public health risks and degrading valuable ecosystems. Regardless of how and when we look to make the necessary replacements in water infrastructure, there is a massive financing gap preventing us from updating degraded water infrastructure. This proposed side-event would feature an interactive panel discussion with innovative leaders from the private sector, foundation, finance, and water and wastewater utilities to build more resilient water infrastructure for the future.
Strategic Dialogue on Labor Trafficking Chair: Rodney Ferguson, President and CEO, Winrock International Assembly Chair: Sarah Labowitz, Co-Director, NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights Broad Strokes: Labor Trafficking Challenges across IndustriesConversation Lead: Ed Marcum, Managing Director, Humanity United Forced labor occurs across all sectors and at every stage of a supply chain—from the extraction of raw materials and fishing to the manufacturing of everyday goods. In the wake of forced labor abuse revelations in global supply chains, companies and governments are increasingly expected by consumers, investors and the media to address these abusive labor practices. Thailand, for example, was rocketed onto the international stage in 2014 when a major investigation by The Guardian revealed that the Thai fishing industry is “built on slavery” and linked to Western retailers. The ensuing political and economic pressure prompted the Government of Thailand and the private sector to adopt a number of steps to address the challenge of forced labor. While that pressure was successful in raising Thailand’s status from Tier 3 to Tier 2 in the most recent Department of State’s Trafficking in Person’s report, what more needs to be done across industries to achieve meaningful progress? This agenda item will assess the current state of affairs from a variety of stakeholder perspectives and shape the Strategic Dialogue. Pervasive Challenges Across Industries: Global Traceability in Seafood Supply ChainsConversation Lead: Timothy Moore, Senior Partnerships Advisor, SSG AdvisorsSeafood is the most widely traded animal protein in the world. It involves many long and complex supply chains with limited transparency, which makes it difficult to trace the origin of fish products and allows illicit seafood companies and fishing vessels to engage in labor trafficking and other human rights abuses. Overfishing and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is causing fisheries to collapse, driving up costs, causing conflict and instability over poaching, and incentivizing the use of forced labor especially in Southeast Asia. Traceability is necessary to achieve sustainable fisheries, and offers a market-based approach to combat IUU fishing and to improve transparency and the adoption of ethical labor practices in the industry. This agenda item will focus on the unique challenges in the global seafood industry, and leverage group discussion towards the identification of resources and development of shared solutions towards improved end-to-end traceability. Pervasive Challenges Across Industries: Responsible RecruitmentConversation Lead: John Morrison, Chief Executive Officer, Institute for Human Rights and Business Workforce recruitment has proven to be a point of vulnerability in the international effort to eradicate labor trafficking. For migrant workers seeking employment in the fishing industry and other sectors, illegal recruitment practices can lead to bonded servitude and slavery. What are the mechanisms currently in place to promote responsible recruitment, and where do they fall short? This agenda item will look to best practices found in other industries and identify practical steps to improve private sector recruitment processes. Pervasive Challenges Across Industries: Private Sector Perspective on Challenges, SolutionsConversation Leads: Dr. Darian McBain, Group Director of Sustainable Development, Thai Union Industry leaders have made the eradication of labor trafficking a priority, in part due to increasing government and consumer demand. Private sector-led coalitions such as the Shrimp Sustainability Task Force and Project Issara have become public facing opportunities to address the challenge head on. Yet these have not proven to be panaceas, and challenges persist at multiple points in the supply chain. What challenges continue to stymie the private sector, and how can public and NGO partners help fill in the gaps? Pervasive Challenges Across Industries: A Governance Approach to Eradicating Labor TraffickingConversation Lead: Amb. Susan Coppedge, Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, U.S. Department of State The private sector alone cannot prevent labor trafficking and ensure a fully clean supply chain: meaningful government commitment is necessary. This means not only enforcing anti-trafficking and labor laws, but supplementing them with policies that close the governance gaps between the high-level commitments made in board rooms and on world stages, and the reality of workers’ day-to-day experiences. Ambassador Coppedge will outline several ways governments can do this. Translating Lessons Across Industry Conversation Lead: Diana Mao, Co-Founder and President, Nomi Network Eradicating labor trafficking in the Thai fishing industry cannot take place in a vacuum. A multi-industry approach must be adopted. How can lessons from the garment and manufacturing industries be applied to the seafood, fishing, and aquaculture industries? What is necessary to achieve meaningful buy-in from the private sector in developing a solution to labor trafficking? This agenda item will present findings from a July roundtable co-hosted by Concordia and the Nomi Network, and advance the conversation on measuring impact. Concordia Campaign Against Labor TraffickingConversation Leads: Katie Henke, Director, Civic Engagement and Social Equity, Winrock International; Michael Posner, Co-Director, NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights In efforts to raise awareness on anti-labor trafficking, Concordia launched the Campaign Against Labor Trafficking in July 2015. Working with partners Winrock International and NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights, the campaign seeks to engage key stakeholders along the value chain – global companies, local suppliers, local governments, foreign governments, intergovernmental organizations, NGOs, trade unions, consumer groups – to change the way the Thai fishing industry as a whole operates. This agenda item will update participants on the campaign, planned programming and research activities, and seek buy-in from key actors/experts in labor trafficking space.
An overwhelming number of over 65 million men, women and children worldwide have been forced to flee their homes as a result of violent conflict, poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation; this includes over 21 million refugees, 3 million asylum-seekers and over 40 million internally displaced persons. Many of them take great risks to reach their destinations, where they often face an uncertain future. On 19 September, concurrent with the first day of the Concordia Summit, the UN General Assembly will host a high-level summit to address large movements of refugees and migrants, bringing the international community together and marking an historic opportunity to formulate a more humane and coordinated international response. This session will set the stage for the Private Sector Forum on Migration and Refugees by examining the outcomes of the UN Summit and the road ahead, address the root causes and drivers of migration, highlight the positive contributions of refugees and migrants, and identify the ways in which the private sector is a key partner in facing the biggest refugee and displacement crisis of our time.
In this keynote session, George Soros, Founder and Chair of Soros Fund Management and the Open Society Foundations, will discuss the importance of public-private partnerships and how they have become indispensable in today’s world, as they transform the way in which societies help fund their needs. By deepening and sustaining these important relationships, we can create more effective ways of responding to the challenges faced by both refugees and host communities. Public-private partnerships can strengthen host communities and protect people on the move and this session will explore the best ways of effectuating this.
Moderator: Gregory Maniatis
The 2016 Concordia Leadership Award recognizes global leaders within the public, private, and nonprofit sectors who inspire others through their ability to turn vision into impact. Recipients of the award reflect a commitment to positive social and economic change while promoting effective public-private collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. The Concordia Leadership Award is scheduled to be presented during the Concordia Awards dinner the evening of September 20, 2016. Due to recipient availability, one honoree will be presented with their Concordia Leadership Award during the Concordia Summit.
Cybersecurity and digital rights have become a staple of newspaper headlines and the national dialogue. Cyberattacks are a present and growing danger both here in the US and around the world. Massive data breaches and a steady stream of reports about vulnerability have put boardrooms on high alert and spurred companies to dedicate increasingly more resources to cyber-breach preparedness, response, and recovery. In order to outpace this rapidly changing threat, maintain strong protections against surveillance, and ensure formal deterrence strategies, many are calling for a coalition of public and private interests working together to improve cybersecurity threats. In recent months, President Obama has set up the Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity as a capstone of America’s cybersecurity efforts. Participants will discuss: In this new environment of cyber strategy, what does the future look like for countries and corporations simultaneously sharing and securing information? How can cyber events including Iran and Stuxnet, North Korea and Sony, China and Google, and the FBI and Apple provide lessons learned for future cyber policy initiatives? How can the private sector and public sector strike a balance between national security and personal privacy? How would you advise the incoming administration prioritize cybersecurity within their greater national security agenda? What new technologies are being developed that can assist governments and corporations in securing their networks?
The Concordia Campaigns for Social Impact Series organizes collaborative events and raises public awareness to drive focus and attention around specific global challenges. This fire-side chat between two drivers of the series provides insight into what keeps them up at night, and how they see P3s making a positive impact around the world. A special announcement on the future of the Campaign Series will also be made.
Recently, the international community has paid an increasing amount of attention to North Korea’s belligerent rhetoric. The possibility of escalating tensions giving rise to military action is of increasing concern that will affect regional geopolitical standings with North Korea and its neighbors. Complex political dynamics are at play, with North and South Korea struggling to coexist, and China finding it ever more difficult to maintain its long-standing allegiance to North Korea. Given the DPRK’s economic dependency on the People’s Republic of China, their failure to adhere to the appeals from China could spell disaster for the North Korean economy inciting unpredictable military behavior. Transnational cooperation between China, South Korea and North Korea is essential to calming tensions and improving regional geopolitical stability resulting in freer economic opportunities. Are the appeals from China enough to pacify North Korea’s military? How can the region prepare for North Korea’s unpredictability? Are economic pressures enough to encourage North Korea to cooperate with China, and the international community at large?
Secretary Rumsfeld’s decorated career, spanning both the public and private sectors, highlights the importance of partnership between both sectors in achieving progress and solving today’s biggest challenges. Through decades of experience at the helm of global companies, in tandem with continued public service, Secretary Rumsfeld understands the necessity of public private collaboration in dealing with “known unknowns” and being prepared for “unknown unknowns.” This discussion will address questions such as: What priorities should the next presidential administration have regarding the United States' role in ensuring security and economic prosperity in the Asia Pacific region? How will the crisis in Venezuela affect future U.S. policies to catalyze economic and social change in the region? Where is collaboration essential in ensuring regional peace and a continued development of open trade routes in the Middle East?
In today’s world, one crisis can be the catalyst for multiple global reactions ranging from public protests and violent outbreaks, to drastic market and currency fluctuations. The volume of information available expands exponentially, yet our comprehension of the problems falters. The task of understanding root causes and resulting effects from a particular event, and formulating appropriate responses, is beyond the capabilities of any single organization or even government alone, requiring true collaboration across sectors. It also requires novel ways of visualizing the devolving international situation that show the many layers of interacting phenomena, states, and non-state actors. In this session, Drs. Frederick and Kimberly Kagan will present such a visualization depicting enemy groups, the interests and activities of the U.S. and its allies, refugee flows, and the other elements needed to understand the world environment and think about how to respond to it.
The Giving Pledge has become an international platform for commitments to philanthropic activity, as over 150 individuals and families have pledged to dedicate the majority of their wealth to philanthropy. Committing to donate one’s wealth is equally as important as evaluating and deciding which organizations will be able to maximize impact per dollar. Public-private partnerships, by utilizing the innovation of the private sector and the capacity of the public sector, are uniquely primed to be a profitable investment opportunity in both social and economic impact.
In order to balance consumer trends, market demands, and global sustainability obligations, industry leaders Danone and Cargill are taking steps towards a better food solution. This session highlights the role of the private sector in the future of food sustainability, the advancement of environmentally conscious practices, and the implementation of sustainable farming on a global scale. From providing new plant-based products to re-inventing their farming and supply practices, both companies are turning traditional market strategy on its head -- and showing real profit. Join visionaries from both companies as they discuss sustainability, our global food supply, and what it takes to be a business in today's global society.
Concordia Campaign Against Labor Trafficking Concordia launched its Campaign Against Labor Trafficking in 2015 to advance cross-sector solutions to the human rights abuses associated with modern day slavery in the Thai fishing industry. Investigative journalism and the media have propelled this issue onto the political, economic, and public stages. Yet, the human rights dimension remains absent from many high-level discussions on ocean regulation. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is too often approached from a conservation and sustainability angle, deemphasizing human rights abuses. This session will provide the audience an advanced viewing of the soon-to-be released Ghost Fleet film, which follows the individual stories of trafficked victims who escaped untraceable Thai Fishing boats. It will then enter into a facilitated dialogue on the role of journalism in anti-trafficking as well as the connection between human rights and ocean space.
Companies with diverse C-suites and Boards of Directors often produce better financial results compared to companies where men dominate these positions. Additionally, corporate policies are more likely to benefit a company’s workforce – paid leave, flexibility, etc – when there are more women in leadership. As the body of evidence continues to expand showing that gender parity in business leads to healthier, more financially stable companies, little has changed in terms of clearing the way for more women at the top. In fact, less than 5% of Fortune 500 companies have a woman CEO. Research conducted by The Rockefeller Foundation shows that over 80% of Americans believe businesses have a responsibility to actively recruit women into leadership positions. This session will explore the barriers that hold women back, and define the role that businesses and other actors can play in working toward a more inclusive workplace for employees at every level – starting at the top. What are businesses doing now to effectively foster gender parity at the executive level? How can CEOs make gender parity throughout their organizations a priority? How can those who influence C-level executives and boards make the case for gender parity in leadership positions?
Europe faces historic challenges from the east and the south, at the same time as internal forces of fragmentation call into question the unity and direction of the European Union (EU). In the wake of the Brexit referendum, horrific terrorist attacks, an unprecedented migration crisis, and a continually sluggish economy, the future of Europe is in play. Europe’s leaders must provide the vision, strategies, and policies essential to ensure Europe can be united, coherent, and strong. Participants in this session will discuss strategies to hold Europe together – or whether it will succumb to the challenges of economic stagnation, political fragmentation, and populism. How can leaders turn back the wave of nationalism and demagoguery that has swept across both sides of the Atlantic? How are Europeans reacting to political globalization in addition to economic globalization? How should Europe reform to address mistrust in institutions, pessimism about the future, fear of terrorism, and resentment of economic stagnation? How will Britain’s exit from the EU impact international markets and trade? What does the future hold for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership and its effect on European and American growth? How will Europe adapt to the rising number of irregular migrants and refugees? What impact will upcoming elections have on American relations with the European Union and the United States’ reluctance to play its historic role as a facilitator—if not a driver—of European unity and action?
Chair: José María Aznar, former President of the Government of Spain Assembly Chair: Samantha Vinograd, Vice President, Goldman Sachs Energy plays a paramount role in growing economies, advancing stable and democratic political regimes, and protecting the environment for tomorrow’s needs. The future of energy – its availability, quality, sustainability, and the politics around it – represents a pan-American challenge. It is also a multi-sector challenge, and cannot be addressed by just one stakeholder alone. A public-private partnership approach is necessary to insure that the growing energy needs of the Americas are met in a way that balances conventional and renewable energy sources and takes into account both sustainability and economic considerations.
Concordia, Columbia University’s Global Policy Initiative, the International Organization for Migration, and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, with the support of the Open Society Foundations and Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, will host a series of high-level interactive discussions on the private sector’s role and responsibility in addressing global migration challenges and the current refugee crisis. A curated gathering of 200 cross-sector leaders will join this invitation-only forum, which will culminate in a plenary session. This plenary session will issue a Call to Action to all 1,000+ expected Concordia Summit attendees on the need to combine efforts and partner across sectors to provide tangible solutions for forced migration.
Throughout history, epidemics have threatened development, and human exposure to new disease agents is increasing. From HIV or SARS, to Ebola and Zika, we continue to struggle with prevention, preparedness, early warning and containment—and our global interdependence is both a potential asset and risk. This session will explore drivers of recent epidemics, lessons learned from recent responses, and the role of public-private partnerships to prevent and combat future epidemics. The session will open with a leading global health expert providing a compelling look at the increasing risks caused by global epidemics. A panel discussion will follow, featuring high-profile leaders the global health arena, affected governments and the private sector, to explore vulnerabilities, social and economic impacts and possible solutions. Finally, audience members will be invited to weigh in on the biggest threats and the best opportunities to combat them.
Equal rights and status for women and girls are essential to prosperity. Without the full participation of women across all levels of society, we all fail to realize our true potential and productivity. Additionally, the oppression of women in many countries around the world is a large contributor to perpetuating extremism and gender-based violence. However, despite global consensus on the integral value of gender empowerment, true equality is far from a reality, and has yet to reach the international urgency and immediacy of other causes. As a global community, we face the daunting declaration by the World Economic Forum that it may be over 100 years until full gender equality will be realized. With international agreement on the course of action, how can we all be urged to act? Public-private partnerships are effectively addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. By protecting rights and personal freedoms, and promoting access to education, health care, and economic opportunities, collaboration is creating sustainable change at both the local and global levels. The George W Bush Institute’s First Ladies Initiative channels the expertise and unique position of First Ladies around the world to foster partnerships that work to improve the lives of women and girls worldwide. This initiative is a prime example of the power of collaboration in ensuring progress towards gender equity for future generations.
Please note, all Office Hours and Roundtables will take place on the 14th Floor boardroom level and are for members only. Prior to the Summit, you will have received your confirmed session and room location. https://www.concordia.net/2016-member-exclusive-sessions/
Following Mohamed Bouazizi’s self-immolation in 2011, the world watched as the event sparked the rise of what became the Arab Spring. Five years later, and after the completion of a series of credible national elections, Tunisia remains a hopeful example of a peaceful, stable and democratic transition. At the same time, the country’s social and economic challenges have yet to be meaningfully addressed. Unemployment rates have crept upwards, reaching 15 percent overall and 38 percent for youth. Recent attacks on the tourist industry and ISIS recruitment among young Tunisians threaten the country’s ability to protect its citizens and to create an environment conducive to international investment. These challenges do not mean democracy in Tunisia is faltering, but the country has a long way to go to address entrenched problems at the institutional and economic levels. Serious reform is necessary to ensure that institutions operate in a responsive and accountable manner, and to deliver tangible improvements to citizens’ lives. Economically, Tunisia must reform its legal and regulatory framework to promote investment; diversify the economy to reduce the over reliance on tourism; and promote regional economic development to address disparities. Participants in this session will address questions such as: What types of political reforms are necessary to address the complex issues of unemployment, poverty and inequality in the Tunisian context? To what extent does the rise of extremist activity in Libya and surrounding territories threaten the progress Tunisia has made thus far? Can decentralization (local elections are expected in 2017) start to address regional inequalities that have long been a source of political tension in the country?
As many countries throughout the Middle East face economic difficulty, political instability, and social unrest, supporting social entrepreneurs in the region to reach their full potential for growth and scale is key to changing the landscape in the Arab world. Entire communities feel the effects of a start-up company’s expansion, as these businesses increase job creation and economic prospects, while also promoting areas such as education, women’s empowerment, the environment, health and security It has been noted that the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cannot be achieved without deep and strategic cross- sector partnerships. This session will explore the roles various stakeholders must play to effectively support innovations that address the Arab region’s most pressing development challenges using scalable and sustainable business practices that expand opportunities and create positive societal impact for generations to come. Participants in this session will discuss questions such as: To what extent is entrepreneurship responsible for the economic development of a nation? What challenges do entrepreneurs face in achieving their potential growth and scale? How can we encourage cross-sector collaboration to better incubate promising businesses? How can RISE Egypt’s fellowship model be expanded to additional countries in the Middle East and around the world? How important are monitoring and evaluation of impact in achieving positive societal change? What respective roles do philanthropists have in leading on investments in innovation and how can we spur further private investment in the region? How can governments further support these initiatives? And finally, what lessons learned can be shared to promote sustained economic growth in the region, and what effect will the growing tides of entrepreneurship in the Arab world have on the region’s next generation?
The growing number and intensity of malicious cyber attacks have been a source of international concern for corporations and governments alike. This activity threatens the security, integrity, and safety of millions of individuals, with no regard for national boundaries or legal jurisdictions. The Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) – established in 2015 by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, the City of London Police, and the Center for Internet Security – has undertaken the daunting task of confronting, addressing, and preventing malicious cyber activity by encouraging transnational and cross-sector collaboration to combat this threat. GCA currently comprises 68 member organizations representing a dozen areas of industry and practice, including finance, aerospace, media, and public infrastructure. By bringing together global experts on the topic, sharing attack data, and developing toolkits to reduce contemporary threats, the GCA is poised to make significant progress on identifying and prioritizing security risks, and deploying effective solutions.
This conversation between William Antholis, Director and CEO of the Miller Center at the University of Virginia, and Sylvia Mathews Burwell, Secretary of the U S Department of Health and Human Services, will provide a broad overview of recommendations for the next presidential administration commencing in 2017. This session will touch on topics ranging from healthcare and human services, to economic opportunity and innovation.
Please join us for an intimate discussion between President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and President Joyce Banda of Malawi, moderated by Gwen K. Young, Director of the Wilson Center’s Women in Public Service Project and Global Women’s Leadership Initiative. Entering the office of the Presidency of Liberia in 2005, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf became the first woman to lead an African nation. In 2012, Joyce Banda became the first female president of Malawi, and the second female democratically elected president on the continent. The conversation between two of Africa’s most powerful women leaders will explore leadership on the continent; including the impact of leadership on policymaking and development objectives; but also the rise of Africa and its leaders on the global agenda.
Chair: Gen. (Ret.) David Petraeus, former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency Assembly Chair: Frances Townsend, Senior National Security Analyst, CBS News As the world faces complex and ever-changing security challenges, it is more difficult than ever to combat global threats. Creating an open source database where citizens can contribute relevant information is an innovative solution to this challenge. Collaboration is essential in establishing this platform, as intelligence agencies, technology firms, and security advocates alike have a shared interest in creating a global network of information gathering.
The 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda provides a terrific opportunity for the private sector to demonstrate the central role it plays in society. While government has been successful in outlining a visionary mission for global development, businesses have the unique ability to bridge the capacity gap to reach the impact and scale necessary to meet the SDGs. Partnership between the public and private sectors, at both the global and at national levels, is vital in creating an effective strategy and successfully implementing it to achieve these goals. This session will bring together leaders from across sectors and industries in a high-level working group to examine businesses’ role in providing technical know-how and fostering the spirit of innovation to fulfill the goals outlined by the United Nations. Participants will also discuss policy options that should be implemented in order to encourage the achievement of the SDGs by 2030. Partners: PeaceTech Lab U.S. Agency for International Development, Global Development Lab U.S. Council for International Business U.S. Department of State, Secretary’s Office of Global Partnerships
Assembly Chair: R. Brad Lane Co-Chair: Dr. Ted Mitchell More than 30 years after the landmark Nation at Risk report called for an overhaul of American education, our country is still failing in its most fundamental responsibility—preparing the next generation for the future. Though our world is changing faster than ever, our model for school has hardly changed since the first schoolhouses opened in the 1800’s. Even after trillions of dollars and decades of reform, that system is failing our young people, who are dropping out and disengaging in staggering numbers. It is time to fundamentally reimagine the purpose of our schools--and to design a new model of education that works the 21st Century. America should be committed to a future in which our 50 million young people don’t just graduate—but enter the world with the passion, purpose, and skills to build the life and world of their dreams. Participants in this session will discuss: What have been the challenges to systematic progress in public education? What obstacles exist at the local, state and national levels? What policy priorities should take precedence for the incoming President of the United States? How are America’s ambitions to become a leading workforce burdened by the poor education system? How can best practices for partnership development in foreign countries be applied to the US? How can innovative technology be best utilized to create more cost effective solutions?
After a decade of general stability, dramatic change is once again sweeping the Western Hemisphere. From Canada to Tierra del Fuego, the collapse of the commodities boom and other ripples from a rebalancing global economy have brought new governments, new leaders and new ideas to the fore. Migration patterns, economic shifts, energy innovation and the regional impacts of recent events have also commanded the attention of international policymakers and investors. To address these issues, particularly through the lens of partnership, Concordia will hold a half-day Strategic Dialogue on these issues at the 2016 Summit in follow up to our Summit on the Americas, held in Miami in May. This high-level curated group of regional stakeholders will address the potential for and implications of a regional energy coalition and the interconnected futures of the Caribbean security triangle, looking at recent events in Colombia, Cuba, and Venezuela.
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