In an era of economic interdependence yet increasing geopolitical divisions, global governance is under strain. The shift towards a multipolar world signifies a profound transformation in global geopolitics, defined by the decentralization of power and the rise of influential regional actors. Disparity in economic and development scale and diversity in political dynamics, and interests, lead to unequal influence undermining collective goals. Global crisis and geopolitical conflicts have presented policymakers with daunting, interlinked, and often unprecedented challenges and disruptions. Resilience is the ability to withstand, recover from, and adapt to periodic shocks and major disruptions. Bolstering resilience at multiple levels requires fostering a culture of preparedness and resourcefulness in the face of growing global turbulence. International cooperation is vital not only between governments, but through civil society, business, and professional collaboration. When adopted by policy- and decision-makers, resilience is shaped, and shapes, different forms of governance that embrace diverse sets of values, and thus might embody dissimilar moral worth to stakeholders. The adoption of the resilience framework in different contexts has given rise to a range of very different governance approaches. The wide range of different contexts in which the resilience framework has been adopted leads to a variety of governance processes.
The rise of multipolarity, financial innovation, technological disruption, and social transformation have reshaped governance frameworks. The evolving global landscape demands a rethinking of resilience—adapting institutions, policies, and governance mechanisms to safeguard economic stability, foster diversity, and navigate technological shifts. The 2025 Lien International Conference will examine how governance structures can balance resilience, inclusivity, and innovation across sectors, from geopolitical strategy to digital transformation, sustainable development, and financial governance.
