The final day of The Atlantic Dialogues brought rich discussions on critical themes: development funding, regional security, and North-South think tank collaboration. Emerging Leaders closed the event with inspiring reflections, leaving participants energized by their bold ideas and resilient spirit.

FUNDING DEVELOPMENT: BOLD IDEAS VS. IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES

This plenary addressed the growing gap between financial needs and global commitments, particularly for climate change. Speakers highlighted how ambitious goals often lack practical pathways to execution. Masood Ahmed emphasized the absence of shared priorities among nations, noting, “The big problem is that we don’t have a shared sense of priority and urgency… We pretend we agree, but fail to deliver.” He proposed that summits like COP should track prior commitments instead of presenting new aspirational numbers without accountability. Nizar Baraka outlined Morocco’s sustainable resource management strategies, such as desalination plants powered by renewable energy, which address the nexus between climate change and food security. Morocco’s approach exemplifies how stability and good governance attract funding and ensure timely project delivery. Joaquim Levy called for clarity in climate finance priorities, stressing the potential for private sector investment in renewable energy without relying solely on institutions like the World Bank. Matata Ponyo Mapon cautioned that over-prioritizing climate finance might overshadow vital sectors like education and infrastructure in developing regions.

REGIONAL SECURITY PARADIGM: FROM THE RED SEA TO THE ATLANTIC

This session delved into the complexities of global security, balancing fragmentation and globalization, and the evolving role of leadership and justice in fostering stability. Pascal Boniface underscored the paradox of rising nationalism clashing with the need for multilateral cooperation. He argued for balancing self-interest with compassionate values and warned against the growing arms race, advocating for robust multilateral frameworks to curb this trend. Birame Diop stressed that nations are the primary architects of their own security, stating, “Nations are the number one players of their own security.” He highlighted the importance of democracy and improved living conditions in reducing migration crises and radicalization. Daniel Vajdich discussed NATO’s internal fragmentation, questioning its capacity to address modern threats. He highlighted maritime security as a critical area for Atlantic cooperation.

NORTH-SOUTH THINK TANK COOPERATION IN A FRAGMENTED WORLD

Think tanks play a vital role in bridging knowledge gaps and fostering dialogue across regions. This plenary explored their evolving mission in a polarized world. Karim El Aynaoui described think tanks as public goods that combine academic rigor with policy relevance, noting their ability to act as shortcuts for knowledge creation and dissemination. Renato Flôres called for more transparency and inclusivity, advocating for open dialogue with opposing viewpoints to foster balanced analyses. Paolo Magri emphasized the importance of cross-regional collaboration and multidisciplinarity in addressing complex global issues.

EMERGING LEADERS: VOICES FOR A RESILIENT FUTURE

The final plenary featured powerful reflections from Emerging Leaders on navigating challenges and building inclusive communities. Danielle Alkaija emphasized the need for intergenerational dialogue, stating, “We are an engine; we have the force and the capacity. We just need you to stand behind us.” Asma Bachikh encouraged South-South exchanges and actionable outcomes, such as increasing the attractiveness of educational institutions in the Global South. Siphokazi Magadla highlighted the importance of soft power in creative economies, urging a more collaborative perspective across cultures.

CLOSING REMARKS

AD conversations culminate in profound introspection, fostering a deliberate questioning of beliefs and assumptions to push the boundaries of thinking. They emphasize the tools and vision necessary to shape a New South, one that simplifies complexities, embraces collaboration, and remains rooted in its history while advancing innovative solutions. Addressing climate inequities requires innovative financing, including public-private partnerships and creative approaches to sustainable development.

 

Karim El Aynaoui wrapped up the dialogues with a call to action for collective efforts in addressing global fragmentation. He reiterated the importance of rebuilding national and supranational institutions to amplify Atlantic voices and foster cooperation.
 

Thank you for joining us on this journey and see you next year for #AD2025!
 

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