2022 presents a year marked by the imperative need to reassess societal, economic, technological, and environmental transitions amidst ongoing challenges of inequality, geopolitical tensions, and trust in institutions. The document outlines ten key issues shaping the international agenda:
Re-evaluation of Leadership and Transformative Change: Debates focus on leadership's capability and legitimacy to steer socio-economic, technological, and climate transitions, ensuring minimal social costs.
Key Elections and Leadership Shifts: Elections in major countries including France, Brazil, Hungary, and the US (midterms), alongside the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, will influence global leadership dynamics.
Continued Pandemic Impact: Post-pandemic recovery faces challenges including geopolitical tensions, rising prices, and health setbacks. The extent of learning from the pandemic in terms of anticipation, ambition, and solidarity will be a critical question.
Economic Recovery Dynamics: Recovery is expected to be uneven, with inequalities between and within countries widening. The recovery is gendered, with recovery rates differing between males and females.
Financial Stress and Debt Management: Developed economies' high debt levels and the deferral of significant policy changes to address price rises will be evaluated. Middle-income economies face financial stress, especially with depreciating currencies and potential sovereign debt crises.
Geopolitical Tensions and Great Power Rivalry: The US-China relationship and the situation in Ukraine highlight escalating geopolitical tensions, affecting global stability and recovery prospects.
Innovations and Their Impact: Innovations in technology and climate adaptation will play crucial roles in addressing global challenges, yet their equitable distribution and impact on society remain uncertain.
Mobility and Humanitarian Crises: Post-pandemic, some groups may face worse conditions, particularly in terms of mobility and humanitarian crises, exacerbating existing disparities.
Health and Humanitarian Concerns: The ongoing health crisis and its implications for human rights, particularly in terms of access to healthcare and vaccinations, will be closely monitored.
Addressing Climate Emergency: The urgency of addressing the climate emergency will intensify, with a focus on mitigation and adaptation strategies, as well as the equitable participation of nations in global climate action.
2022 presents a year of significant challenges and opportunities, requiring global cooperation and innovative solutions to navigate through economic recovery, geopolitical shifts, and environmental pressures. The key to success lies in collective action, inclusive policies, and robust leadership capable of steering through these complex issues.