SESSION 2) Great Shifts – Rebuilding Democracy and Capitalism
Democracy and capitalism have been challenged by a diverse range of forces, especially since the Great Recession of 2008- 09. Political instability, economic uncertainties, climate change and inequities have been reinforcing nationalism, protectionism and unilateralism around the world, threatening the democracy and capitalism upon which the world garnered its peace and prosperity. When the COVID-19 pandemic is in itself the most immediate challenge to the world and is further undermining the sustainability of democracy and capitalism, the world is in urgent need of such qualities as responsible leadership, continued innovation, new technologies and social cohesion, among others.
SUB) A Roundtable with Ambassador
South Korea's foreign policy that focuses on the United States, China, Japan and Russia, has left a sense of alienation for other diplomats representing other nations. This results in a lack of strong support when discussing various diplomatic issues and initiatives(North Korea, running for head of international organizations, hosting international conferences, multilateral diplomacy, etc.) Ambassadors in Korea are valuable first hand resources for respective countries. There is much need for hosting channels of dialogue and discussion for ambassadors in Korea that are not a part of the four countries (the US, China, Japan, and Russia) often centered in foreign policy discussions in Korea.