What does the future of multilateralism look like? How can we balance climate responsibility and opportunity? And what’s at stake for democracy as we face a new generation of challenges? Day 2 of the Atlantic Dialogues brought together voices from across the Atlantic to answer these questions and more.

 

SOUTHFULLNESS AND THE FUTURE OF MULTILATERALISM

Panelists discussed the Global South’s role in global governance, highlighting its diversity. Jacques Attali argued that the South is not monolithic, with the influence of China and Russia in Africa not representing its broader interests. Omar Hilale emphasized the South's political potential when united, advocating for reforms like expanding the UN Security Council for better representation. Erika Mouynes called for greater youth involvement in governance, while Ana Palacio urged a reevaluation of traditional models to embrace technology-driven, flexible solutions for the South's evolving needs.

WHO BEARS THE COST OF THE ENERGY TRANSITION?

The plenary focused on climate responsibility, with industrialized nations facing a "carbon debt" due to their historical emissions, while developing countries hold "carbon credits" for their minimal contributions. Carlos Lopes stressed the need for mechanisms to transfer resources from high-emission countries to those most affected. Despite repeated pledges, Dominique Strauss-Kahn questioned whether the energy transition would occur without a crisis, while Andreas Kraemer suggested redirecting fossil fuel subsidies—currently $7 trillion annually—towards renewable energy.

DEMOCRACY ON THE EDGE: ELECTION YEAR IN THE WIDER ATLANTIC

The panel examined shifting democratic dynamics. Mohamed Beavogui highlighted Ghana’s successful elections as a model for stability, while Kassie Freeman discussed the politicization of race and identity. Paulo Portas addressed the rise of digital democracy and its impact on political landscapes, exemplified by Brexit. Najat Vallaud-Belkacem identified threats to democracy from competition, lack of diversity, and external interference, stressing the importance of addressing identity and social issues to counter extremism.

SMART INFRASTRUCTURE: INVESTING IN AFRICA’S CONNECTED FUTURE

Jorge Arbache emphasized the role of technology in advancing Africa’s green initiatives, especially in energy, minerals, and food production. He argued that Africa must leverage smart technologies to lead to decarbonization. Arkebe Oqubay Metiku discussed the rise of digital and green technologies, citing Morocco’s ports and Ethiopia’s renewable energy as examples. He stressed the need for innovative financing, including foreign direct investment and multilateral partnerships, to bridge Africa’s infrastructure gap. Nicolas Massot proposed collaboration between South America and Africa to enhance agricultural development and reduce food imports.

BEYOND FRAGMENTATION: CONSTRUCTING ATLANTIC COMMUNITIES OF INTEREST

Sergio Alcocer emphasized the role of think tanks in fostering innovation through scientific and technological cooperation. He advocated for regional learning between Latin America and Africa to promote sustainable development. Stephanie Miley addressed fragmentation in the Atlantic community, calling for cross-sector collaboration and highlighting youth as key drivers of transatlantic cooperation. Mamphela Ramphele argued that recognizing shared heritage and addressing exploitative systems are crucial for building inclusive communities, with youth leading the way through education and leadership.
 

Thank you for your active engagement! Tomorrow, we’ll continue our discussions with sessions on Funding Development, The Regional Security Paradigm, and North-South Think Tank Cooperation and Partnership in a Fragmented World. We’ll also hear from our Emerging Leaders as they share their reflections on our conversations—because their voices truly matter!

 

See you then!
 

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