Global Economy & Trade

Global trade and economic dynamics are undergoing profound transformations, driven by shifts in manufacturing, supply chains, and international trade disputes. These changes reshape how goods are produced and exchanged, impacting emerging and established economies. To ensure long-term prosperity, it is vital to strengthen supply chain resilience, promote standardization, and foster sustainable growth through innovation in trade and manufacturing. Government and private sector leaders must work together to address shifting opinions on tariffs and how countries trade with each other. 

Amid these shifts, economic and social inequalities have highlighted the urgent need for financial inclusion, particularly for women, minorities, and small and medium-sized enterprises, representing nearly 90% of businesses and over 50% of global employment. Building trust in institutions and addressing systemic challenges like unemployment, wealth disparities, and human rights issues across global supply chains are essential for fostering equitable economic growth. How can inclusion strategies empower diverse communities and bolster the global economy? How can innovation create more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive trade practices? How will current trade disputes affect national, regional, and global economic policy?

Democracy, Security & Geopolitical Risk

Throughout the world, but especially in the U.S., the contentious nature of democracy has been a highly discussed topic in recent months. From incumbent rejection in elections worldwide to the growing refugee crisis around the globe, rebuilding trust in democratic institutions and maintaining national security is at the top of governments’ and citizens’ minds. Focusing on redefining foreign policy, collaboration between countries, and a sense of domestic peace and security will be high on governmental agendas. How can political parties in divided countries come together to combat the rampant mis- and disinformation across all societal discourse levels? How can initiatives designed to situate underrepresented voices as key actors in preventing conflict, promoting peace, and countering violent extremism affect a change? What role does technology like artificial intelligence play in navigating geopolitical risk and policy making? And how can sectors and multilateral organizations work together to strengthen democracy and national security in a time fraught with threat and conflict?

Environmental Sustainability & Natural Resources

From hurricanes and wildfires to record-breaking heatwaves and water scarcity, the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly impossible to ignore. These crises underscore the urgent need for a global shift toward environmental sustainability and a low-emissions future. As climate patterns change, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship is more important than ever.

Businesses worldwide recognize the physical and regulatory risks associated with climate change and the vast market-driven opportunities to address it. Embracing sustainability isn’t just an ethical imperative—it’s a strategic advantage. Market-based solutions, from carbon pricing to green finance, are powerful tools for driving meaningful environmental progress while fostering innovation and economic resilience. What are the common misconceptions surrounding this transition? What challenges must be overcome to garner broader support for a low-emissions future?

Health Opportunities & Challenges

Access to care and advancing the potential of preventative health solutions are critical in addressing the deep disparities in health outcomes. The strain on physical health systems and the broader effects on social relations and mental health highlight the need for innovative solutions to build resilience and equity in our health systems. By leveraging innovative technology, we can create a future-focused approach to public health that emphasizes equity, preparedness, affordability, and confidence in the solutions we build together. By improving access to early diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and predictive health models, AI can empower providers and patients alike to take a more proactive approach to care. How can we ensure that advancements in AI and preventative care are accessible to underserved communities? What steps can be taken to align technology innovation with policies that address systemic health disparities?

Advancing Human Rights & Social Progress

Universal human rights and social equity are the cornerstones of sustainable global development and meaningful social impact. However, rapid economic and technological growth has deepened socioeconomic inequalities and eroded public trust in institutions worldwide. Protecting fundamental freedoms—such as freedom of expression, movement, public discourse, and the fair rule of law—is essential to ensuring global prosperity and fostering resilient communities.

In this context, cultural diplomacy and youth advocacy are pivotal in addressing these challenges. By fostering mutual understanding across diverse cultures and empowering young leaders with access to education and opportunities, societies can create inclusive spaces where individuals actively shape their social, economic, and political futures. How can stakeholders work together to amplify diverse voices, leverage cultural exchange, and harness youth leadership to uphold human rights, foster trust, and build a more just and inclusive global society? How can youth advocates improve conditions related to gender inequality and child labor?

Innovative Technology

The increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies is reshaping how we connect, communicate, and work. This rapid transformation highlights the urgency of building a tech-savvy economy and embracing digital solutions that address societal needs while fostering responsible innovation. However, the integration of AI also raises concerns about data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the widening socioeconomic and gender divides, particularly in regions with limited access to digital resources. As AI continues to evolve, the role of the private sector in driving technological advancements must be balanced with the public sector’s responsibility to regulate and ensure equitable access. How can AI be leveraged to bridge these gaps, ensure equitable growth in a digitized economy, and strengthen digital infrastructure for workforce development while maintaining public trust and ethical standards?