Misum Forum 2025: Geopolitical power shifts: The new challenge for progress towards global sustainability
Geopolitical power shifts: The new challenge for progress towards global sustainability
2025 is turning out to be a year of substantial turmoil — in markets, in politics, and in international relations. Companies, governments, academia and organizations around the world are scrambling to adapt. Initiatives focused on global sustainability — concern for the environment, social progress and inclusive institutions — have also come under pressure. The Misum Forum 2025 will convene to discuss what the lasting impacts of these shifts might be for global sustainability goals, and what organizations are doing and planning now in a complex environment. Some questions we will examine:
- How should we understand the political economy of the current moment?
- What will rising geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty imply for social progress?
- What is the human cost of sharp reductions in foreign aid in many rich countries?
- How have the complex shifts in policy and business environments affected the corporate social responsibility of large firms?
Our speakers are among the leading global experts who can help us make sense of these tumultuous times.
Keynote speaker
Professor Sir Tim Besley, Professor of Economics and Political Science and W. Arthur Lewis Professor of Development Economics, London School of Economics
Prof. Besley is a leading scholar in political economy. His research has provided frameworks for understanding political incentives, state capacity, economic conflict, democratic resilience, and the politics of green transition, with empirical work spanning the US, India, Africa, and Sweden.
Academic speaker
Professor Dean Karlan, Professor of Economics and Finance, Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University.
Prof. Karlan, former Chief Economist at USAID (2022–2025), researches poverty using experimental and behavioral economics across 20+ countries. His work spans income generation, financial inclusion, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. He will explore the global impact of sharp aid budget cuts — and what progress remains possible despite them.
Academic speaker
Professor Daniel Nyberg, Professor of Sustainability, School of Business, University of Queensland.
Prof. Nyberg is a leading scholar whose research explores the politics and management of climate change. At the Misum forum, he will reflect on how corporations, governments, and citizens navigate competing priorities in responding to today’s most pressing challenges—particularly in a time of profound geopolitical shifts
Panel Discussion: The Impact of Geopolitical Shifts on Sustainability
Hear perspectives from leading voices in Swedish industry, government, and civil society on how today’s geopolitical changes are shaping their work and priorities.
