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