As geopolitical competition intensifies and confidence in international institutions comes under increasing pressure, a panel discussion convened by UNU-CPR's Global Governance Innovation Platform (GGI) and the ENSURED project examined the future of multilateral cooperation in an increasingly contested and multipolar world.
Drawing on findings from ENSURED's three-year research programme, participants explored both the vulnerabilities facing the current multilateral order and opportunities for governance innovation.
Discussion focused on how successful multilateral practices can inform more effective, robust and democratic forms of global governance. Participants also examined what lessons can be learned from new multilateral debates around global digital governance and the development of international norms for emerging technologies.
The conversation further explored which traditional multilateral practices remain fit for purpose in a multipolar world, and how governance models from BRICS and other plurilateral forums can strengthen multilateral governance and cooperation.
The discussion highlighted the importance of understanding how multilateral institutions evolve and adapt in response to shifting geopolitical realities. As international cooperation becomes increasingly complex, participants reflected on both the enduring strengths of existing multilateral approaches and the potential for new governance practices to enhance cooperation across a wider range of actors and institutions.
Read the concept note here.
