Major powers and global governance: Megatrends and grand challenges

Governance today is faced with increasing complexity and uncertainty. Pressing global issues such as the uprising of separatist forces around Europe spurred by dissatisfaction with the EU, escalating military tensions between Russia and NATO, flaring security threats imposed by North Korea’s constant nuclear tests, and the emerging anti-globalization tides propelled by President Trump’s “America First” policy, are all reshaping today’s political landscapes.

In addition, the international community must adapt to long-term global megatrends such as the shift in economic power to Asia, changing demographics and urbanization, the rise and the effects of advanced technology, resource scarcity, and climate change.

How will major power relations evolve in the face of rising nationalism and populism? How will China, the United States, Russia, and the EU work jointly to provide solutions to the pressing global issues? What are the implications of global megatrends on governance? How do communities and countries anticipate and prepare for the future?

On October 30, Tsinghua University hosted a public forum featuring Strobe Talbott and John R. Allen. The panel discussion started with an analysis of the most critical global issues in governance and then explored the shaping effects of global megatrends. Working language for this event was in English and Chinese with simultaneous interpretation.