Healing multilateralism: how multi-level governance can solve global problems

It is often heard: Global problems, such as climate change or the fight against Covid-19, require global cooperation. The cross-border nature and sheer scope of the problems require global collective action. Yet, cooperation often does not go beyond words. What is often highlighted instead are systemic differences, bilateral approaches to cooperation, and the malfunctioning of existing institutional arrangements. The key to the future of multilateralism lies in recognizing how various levels of governance, local identity, nationalism and multilateralism, can complement one another so that global problem-solving results go hand in hand with empowerment and social prosperity. Successfully tackling global challenges requires globally agreed targets (across various political systems), national adaptations and local implementations. It requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders - from politics, business and civil society organizations. This panel will propose solutions to strengthen multilateralism.