Side event to the WEF Davos Summit

Unlocking Positive Tipping Points in global governance, technology, and youth engagement

Davos, 21st January 2025.

The University of Geneva (UNIGE) and EPFL co-hosted an exclusive luncheon on the margins of the World Economic Forum's Annual Summit in Davos, uniting leaders from academia, government, international organizations, and the private sector. The focus of this high-level dialogue was on unlocking “positive tipping points” to address global challenges across governance, technology, and youth engagement.

Building on the Geneva Future Talks initiative, this event featured visionary statements from distinguished speakers, including Ambassador Alexandra Baumann (FDFA), Dr. Dmitry Mariyasin of UNECE, Dr. Maximilian Martin of Lombard Odier, and Dr. Alexandre Hedjazi of UNIGE. Participants engaged in table discussions to identify actionable pathways for addressing critical challenges such as environmental sustainability, financial inclusion, and the future of work. The event was moderated by Professor Tina Ambos (UNIGE) and Professor Michael Aklin (EPFL), who shared their insights. Tina Ambos concluded: “By focusing on positive tipping points, we can shift from a narrative of crises to one of opportunities, building a future that is not only sustainable but also inclusive and resilient.”

“Today’s dialogue reinforced the power of collective intelligence and strategic foresight to foster collaborative, multi-stakeholder solutions,” said Professor Audrey Leuba, Rector of UNIGE. “We must focus on empowering future generations and transforming narratives to drive sustainable change.”

The University of Geneva and EPFL remain committed to advancing research-driven, multi-sectoral approaches to create resilient ecosystems and inspire global action.

 

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Prof. Ambos (UNIGE), President Fontcuberta i Morral (EPFL), Rector Leuba (UNIGE), Prof. Aklin (EPFL)

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President Fontcuberta i Morral (EPFL) and Rector Leuba (UNIGE) sharing the floor

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 An audience of high-level experts across sectors

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