12 INTRODUCTION & WELCOME
VISION FOR A BRAVE NEW WORLD
Victor Philippenko, Chairman of the board, G2O Foundation
In the past year, we have witnessed a continuation of major geopolitical disputes and a further dramatic escalation of humanitarian challenges. It is also a year since the G8 ceased to exist. In that time we have experienced a fundamental paradigm shift in global governance. The international community continues to look for a new modus operandi as everyone realises that current political problems are not likely to disappear anytime soon.
We are painfully reminded that when there is dissent among world leaders the UN becomes paralysed and this sabotages our most vital institution of global governance. As local conflicts gridlock the UN Security Council, it transforms the General Assembly into becoming little more than a stage where national leaders preach to their respective choirs and the assignment of guilt becomes more relevant than any quest for realistic solutions. Regional interests, as well as the concept of spheres of influence, have again taken centre stage.
It is here where we must re-examine the lessons and successes of the G20 summits during the financial crisis of 2008 / 2009. What made this format relevant was its potential to solve problems for which neither the G8 nor the UN were equipped. The onus of the