by Wael Chebbi
Last week, from February 12th to 14th, the Global Government Summit 2024 took place in Dubai, under the theme “Envisioning the Governments of the Future.” This high-profile event brought together over 25 heads of state and government, alongside more than 120 government delegations and representatives from over 85 international and regional organizations.
The summit aimed to explore future opportunities and challenges, addressing pressing global issues and fostering collaboration among governments worldwide. With a focus on sharing experiences and highlighting inspirational government initiatives, the event showcased models that have made a tangible impact on their respective countries and societies.
Featuring six main pillars and 15 global forums, the summit hosted over 110 interactive sessions where 200 global figures, including heads of state, ministers, experts, and thought leaders, engaged in discussions. Additionally, more than 23 ministerial meetings and executive sessions were held, with over 300 ministers in attendance.
One of the highlights of this year’s summit was the participation of distinguished Nobel laureates from various scientific fields. This underscored the event’s significance as a global platform for intellectuals, decision-makers, and influencers, aligning with its mission to prioritize innovative solutions to global challenges and enhance societal well-being and human civilization.
In collaboration with knowledge partners from think tanks, academic institutions, and research centers, the summit launched 25 strategic reports. These reports aimed to analyze global trends across various sectors and propose actionable government strategies.
Throughout the summit, international dialogues and discussions aimed to shape the governments of the future, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and innovative solutions for future challenges. Roundtable meetings brought together world leaders, government officials, international organizations, and private sector leaders to identify innovative solutions and inspire the next generation of governments.
High-level ministerial meetings covered topics such as sustainable development, the future of government, Arab finance ministers, labor ministers from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and energy ministers discussing the future of hydrogen energy.
The summit also recognized exceptional contributions to building a better society, presenting several international awards. These included the Best Minister in the World Award, Dubai International Award for Best Sustainable Development Practices, Innovative Government Innovations Award, Global Award for Best Government Applications, and Global Government Excellence Award.
As part of its proceedings, the Global Government Summit conducted a global survey, inviting ministers from around the world to contribute their ideas on critical global issues and participate in enhancing cooperative solutions.
Prominent leaders who graced the summit included Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who participated in a dialogue session, and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who delivered a keynote address. Additionally, Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, led a session on a new government vision for the creative industry.
The first day of the summit featured sessions addressing future trends in various sectors, such as building civilizations of the future, aviation and emissions dilemma, and economic prosperity. Speakers included Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus, and Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airlines.
Overall, the Global Government Summit 2024 in Dubai served as a crucial platform for global leaders to exchange ideas, address challenges, and shape the future of governance in an ever-changing world landscape. With its diverse agenda and distinguished participants, the summit reinforced the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving positive change on a global scale.
