Institute of Future and Innovation Studies co-organizes High-Level Workshop on UN New Global Deal in Geneva
John Cabot University is proud to announce that Director of Institute of Future and Innovation Studies Francesco Lapenta participated in a significant closed-door workshop in Geneva, Switzerland, on October 23, 2023. The event, organized by the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS) in collaboration with the South Centre, focused on developing proposals for a UN New Global Deal.
During the workshop, Director Lapenta presented several key arguments from his recent work, which were central to the discussions. Drawing from his chapter in the FEPS publication “A New Global Deal: Reforming World Governance,” Lapenta highlighted the historical context of technological innovation and its impact on socio-economic growth, emphasizing the challenges posed by the centralization of innovation in dominant tech hubs. He advocated for a new model of innovation and sustainable economic growth for the 21st century, focusing on decentralizing innovation to foster global technological transformation and sustainability. Lapenta emphasized the unique opportunities offered by digital technologies and AI, suggesting that these could help bridge economic and geographic divides if guided by inclusive global governance. He proposed a human-centric approach to AI, the recognition of digital realms and AI as global commons, and the importance of supporting open data based on F.A.I.R. principles. The group explored these ideas along with the emergence of a new global data and AI order and its implications for governance and equity. These topics sparked lively debates among the participants, contributing to a comprehensive discussion on shaping a UN New Global Deal that addresses the challenges and opportunities of our increasingly digital and AI-driven world.
The strategic location of Geneva provided an ideal setting for this full-day workshop, which brought together experts from both the Global South and North. The event was notable for its comprehensive and fruitful discussions, addressing key policy areas essential for shaping a UN New Global Deal.
Director Lapenta joined an impressive roster of participants, including:
Carlos Correa, Executive Director of the South Centre
Maria João Rodrigues, President of FEPS
Pier Carlo Padoan, Former Italian Minister of Economy and Finance and OECD Deputy Secretary-General
Sandrine Dixson-Declève, Co-President of The Club of Rome
Arancha González Laya, Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs and former Spanish Minister for Foreign Affairs
Enrico Giovannini, former Italian Minister of Infrastructure and Sustainable Mobility
The workshop covered a wide range of topics crucial to global governance and sustainable development, including:
1. Sustainable development and climate change
2. Health and intellectual property rights
3. Trade for development
4. South-South cooperation
5. European environmental policy
6. UN reform and global governance
This high-level event exemplifies the global reach and impact of JCU’s Institute of Future and Innovation Studies. Professor Lapenta’s participation underscores our commitment to contributing to critical discussions shaping the future of global governance and international cooperation.
The insights and proposals developed during this workshop are expected to play a significant role in informing future UN initiatives and global policy discussions. We are proud that our Institute continues to be at the forefront of such important international dialogues.
The Institute of Future and Innovation Studies remains committed to fostering international collaboration and contributing to solutions for global challenges through events like these and the ongoing work of our dedicated faculty and researchers.
