Upcoming Events
FOGGS Open Consultation Mondays
Upcoming FOGGS Open Consultation Monday: 2 June, 2025
All past recordings, meeting summaries and details of upcoming FOGGS Open Consultation Mondays can be found on the dedicated page here.
Past Events
Note - The list of past events is not exhaustive.
A RAFT FOR THE FUTURE: Can the Pact for the Future Deliver the Multilateral Titanic?
24 October, 2024 | Zoom
The United Nations adopted the Pact for the Future at the Summit of the Future in New York. The Pact addressed issues such as Peace and Security, Development and Finance, Science, the Global Digital Compact, Youth, and Future Generations. FOGGS organized this online event, bringing together representatives from global think tanks, civil society, academic institutions, diplomatic missions, foreign ministries, and the public to discuss the Pact and explore next steps for strengthening global governance.
Running out of Diplomats? A discussion on the changing nature of diplomacy and the staffing challenges of the diplomatic sector
24 April, 2024 | Zoom
This was a discussion on the changing nature of diplomacy and the staffing challenges of the diplomatic sector. The discussion highlighted concerns regarding potential shortage of qualified diplomats globally. This issue stemmed from factors like the increasing complexities of international relations, a demanding work environment, and a lack of interest from younger generations in diplomatic careers. The discussion emphasized a growing crisis in the diplomatic field, with the possibility of not having enough skilled professionals to manage international relations effectively.
Zero Draft on the Future of Global Governance
1 March, 2024 | Zoom
An initiative of the Global South Perspectives Network, this online Zoom event included two panel discussions on “Global Governance and the Future of Humanity”, and “Zero Draft of the Pact for the Future”.
A report on the event, prepared by Inclusive Society Institute can be found here: https://www.foggs.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024.04.10-REFLECTIONS-ON-THE-ZERO-DRAFT-OF-THE-PACT-FOR-THE-FUTURE.pdf
Strengthening Democracy through education: Conceptual and Practical Perspectives
27-28 February, 2024 | Tallinn University
Conference Agenda – https://www.foggs.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/DEMOCRAT_Tallin-Conference-Agenda-27-28-Feb-2024.pdf
Emerging Global Geopolitics and the United Nations
24 October, 2023 | Zoom
UN Day marked the commemoration of the UN Charter’s entry into force and the official establishment of the United Nations. The UN has faced numerous challenges over the years, requiring adjustments to its institutions, policies, and practices. Despite surviving, the organization now faces new and old threats, including wars, climate change, and pandemics. This discussion took place among experienced former UN staff and members of the Peacemaking Reflection Group (PRG – see https://www.foggs.org/prg), supported by FOGGS, focusing on the UN’s role under current circumstances and potential adjustments needed for its continued relevance.
The Zaporizhzhia Case Webinar
25 September 2023 | Zoom
For the first time in history, a nuclear power plant became a military objective during a war. This also highlights the lack of a ratified global agreement or treaty on non-aggression to nuclear facilities, or of another type, whose destruction entails a great impact on the population. Watch the presentation by nuclear expert Dr Alejandro Zurita and the subsequent discussion organized by FOGGS on 25 September 2023 on behalf of the Peacemaking Reflection Group (PRG) of former UN system staff. Dr Zurita’s PowerPoint presentation can be found at www.foggs.org/prg and his paper on the subject here – https://www.foggs.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/The-Zaporizhzhia-Case-FOGGS-Papers-2023.pdf
Inclusive Global Governance for a Peaceful and Resilient World
15 September 2023 | New York
FOGGS, along with other partners hosted a full-day event titled “Inclusive Global Governance for a Peaceful and Resilient World” on 15 September 2023 in New York. The event was held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly’s high-level segment and in view of a number of summits taking place during that period at UN Headquarters in New York. The Programme and other details including the video recording can be found here.
The event included the launch of two reports: Global South Perspectives on Global Governance Reform and An Enhanced Role for the UN in Peace & Human Security.
The UN and Global Resilience
24 October 2022 | Zoom
On the occasion of UN Day 2022, FOGGS proposed a different kind of discussion on the future of our world with the perspective of youth groups and specialists on global governance and the UN. Press play and listen to their contributions and views. What do people from around the world, especially the youth, think?
The UN Charter 77 years later
30 June 2022 | Zoom
FOGGS hosted a discussion on the significance of the United Nations Charter, signed on 26 June 1945 by 51 countries. The Charter aimed to create a better-managed world after World War II and set the goal of saving future generations from the scourge of war. While it established the structure of the UN and its institutions, some provisions, like the veto power of the five permanent members of the Security Council, are seen as outdated. The event explored whether the Charter can be amended to address current challenges and meet the needs and aspirations of youth and future generations.
Gaming for a Better World
29 June 2022 | Zoom
Today, over 3 billion people worldwide play video games, which span a hugely diverse range of form and content, with the industry generating more than US$ 180 billion a year in global revenues – about seven times as much as the global music industry. FOGGS hosted a virtual panel discussion titled ‘Gaming for a Better World’ on Wednesday, 29 June. In this panel discussion with leading figures in the video game industry and a peacebuilding specialist, we explored the different types of narratives coming out of the gaming world and their current and potential impact on societies. In particular, we discussed whether and how story telling through video games can contribute toward building a more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable world.
Time to Rethink the UN
24 March 2022 | Zoom
Public webinar co-organized by the Global Governance Forum (GGF) and the Foundation for Global Governance and Sustainability (FOGGS) on 24 March 2022, moderated by Nik Gowing, former BBC presenter.
Enterprising Education for Fit for Future Results
26 January 2022 | Zoom
Why an entrepreneurial spirit is important when re-imagining education to cater for a sustainable future? How can experiences during the pandemic response school closures support this. In this recording of the pleanary session of the Enterprising education for fit-for future results workshop held as part of the #LearningPlanet Festival on 26 January 2022, Veerle Vandeweerd and Georgios Kostakos introduce the COVIDEA approach, and Eszter Salamon provides a ParENTrepreneurial approach to make it a reality with parents as equal partners in renewing edcuation.
Floods. Wildfires. Pandemics… Is it time to call in the troops?
23 November 2021 | Zoom
FOGGS hosted an online discussion on the role of “Militaries in Responding to Civilian Emergencies (M4CE).” The event highlighted the vital role military personnel and equipment have played in addressing various calamities, including pandemics, natural disasters, and industrial accidents. Experts from various countries and organizations discussed the legal framework, civilian-military cooperation, command and control issues, budgets, training, and cross-border coordination. The conversation emphasized the need to improve and share best practices to enhance military support in non-military emergencies for better policymaking and public awareness.
Reviewing “Our Common Agenda” for a Resilient World
26 October 2021 | Zoom
On the occasion of UN Day 2021, FOGGS organised an online discussion on the future of the United Nations on the basis of the ‘Our Common Agenda’ report by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The event included an appraisal of the global governance proposals put forward in the Secretary-General’s report by FOGGS Executive Board member Harris Gleckman, on the basis of a Background Paper that can be found here. It was followed by a discussion among FOGGS Executive Board members and guest experts moderated by FOGGS Executive Director Georgios Kostakos.
Implementing the SDGs in India
12 May 2021 | Zoom
Statistical indicators cannot bring about sustainable development, unless they are tied to the social context, with existing welfare and rural development schemes brought together under one reference framework. To discuss this and other findings of the recently published report entitled “Implementing the SDGs in India: Poverty, Hunger and Gender”, the Foundation for Global Governance and Sustainability (FOGGS) convened a virtual panel discussion.
Assessing President Biden’s Climate Summit: Is the dial moving closer to 1.5°C?
29 April 2021 | Zoom
FOGGS hosted a discussion on the outcomes of US President Biden’s “Leaders Summit on Climate” and its implications for achieving the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement. The conversation focused on how the summit’s results could influence the UNFCCC COP 26 in Glasgow, aiming to make significant progress in addressing the climate emergency. The event explored the critical steps needed to ensure COP 26 leads to meaningful action on climate change.
Historia de amor y odio – Las narrativas que dan forma a nuestro presente y futuro
24 March 2021 | Zoom
En estos tiempos de enormes cambios y de mucha incertidumbre, ¿Cuáles son las historias que nos contamos para dar sentido a nuestras vidas? ¿A nuestras sociedades? ¿Al mundo? ¿A quiénes nos hacen amar – u odiar? ¿Qué impacto tienen en las decisiones políticas? ¿En qué direcciones nos llevan estas historias? ¿Es posible cambiar de historia – y de camino?
We the People of the UN: Myths versus Reality
24 October 2020 | Zoom
On 24 October, 2020, FOGGS co-hosted an event with the Dias to explore the hidden world of the UN and the people who work there. We invited staffers who work everyday in the UN system to share their stories, experiences, and perspectives to reveal the realities of life working for the UN and other related global organizations.
For the Betterment of the World: Different Perspectives on Moving Forward
23 October 2020 | Zoom
Organised on the UN Day 2020, “For the Betterment of the World: Different Perspectives on Moving Forward” was a discussion of global issues with distinguished experts from industry, civil society and the arts as part of advancing the UN75+25 Alliance recently launched with a view to establishing an intergenerational, cross-border global movement for a better UN and a better world in the next 25 years.
Online debate A new Narrative of Hope and a Global Resilience Council for UN75+25
23 September 2020 | Zoom
Out-of-the-box ideas for the future of the United Nations debated with experts and your participation through Q&A.
21 September, A Model UN for a Model World UN75+25 Alliance
21 September 2020 | Zoom
Millions of young people around the world have been participating in “Model UN” sessions over the years, trying to simulate negotiations in the world forum, educate themselves about global issues and processes, and instil youthful energy and potential solutions to often age-old problems. To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the UN on the day world leaders are scheduled to do so, 21 September 2020, and with it observe the International Day of Peace also falling on the same day, this event brought together aspiring young people with seasoned diplomats and international civil servants in a lively discussion about the model UN we need in order to get the model / better world we want. It was a moment of co-creation of the UN75 experienced generation with the UN75+25 upcoming generation, united in human solidarity and hope, creative energy and positive ambition.
Webinar on “A guaranteed income for all”
30 June 2020 | Zoom
COVID-19 revealed the global vulnerabilities in health systems, economies, and job security. To build a more resilient and secure future, Katoikos, the online magazine and community project of FOGGS, proposed ten elements for recovery plans through the #Engage4Better petition. A webinar was held to discuss the need for a guaranteed income for all, featuring FOGGS Advisory Board member Yoriko Yasukawa, Dr. François Denuit, Jorge Pinto, and Leire Rincon. The experts explored the importance of universal basic income as a key element in future recovery and resilience strategies.
Webinar on #Engage4Better petition – petition for a better world post COVID-19
13 May 2020 | Zoom
COVID-19 exposed global vulnerabilities in health systems, economies, and job security. To create a more secure and resilient future, Katoikos, the online magazine and community project of FOGGS, outlined ten key elements for recovery plans through the #Engage4Better petition. A webinar was held to discuss these points with FOGGS President Richard Kinley, Advisory Board member Yoriko Yasukawa, Executive Director Georgios Kostakos, and Katoikos Managing Editor Dominikos K. Chrysidis. The discussion focused on ways to improve future recovery efforts and make them more aligned with the needs of people worldwide.