The Global South Perspectives Network's webinar on March 1st presented a multifaceted dialogue on the Zero Draft of the Pact for the Future. Inclusive Society Institute CEO, Mr Daryl Swanepoel welcomed those in attendance, after which Dr Georgios Kostakos, Executive Director, Foundation for Global Governance and Sustainability (FOGGS), detailed the Summit of the Future (SOTF) process, setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of global governance.
Chief Director: UN Political, Peace and Security, South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr. Zaheer Laher's, presentation focussed on the importance of collective action and global cooperation to address challenges from a Global South perspective, emphasising the need for inclusive and equitable solutions in global governance reform. Furthermore, He highlighted South Africa's expectations and priorities for the UN Summit of the Future and the development of the Pact for the Future, advocating for meaningful reforms and multilateral approaches to achieve sustainable development and peace.
A diverse panel of experts enriched the event, each providing critical analysis and building upon the conversation with unique insights. The panel included Prof. Cilene Victor, Professor at Methodist University and leader of the HumanizaCom Research Group, São Paulo, Brazil; Prof. Mohammed Taher Gholi Tabar, Professor at the University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran; Prof. Carmen Rico Menge, former Dean of the Faculty of Social Communication and Director of International Relations at the Catholic University of Uruguay; and Ms. Buyelwa Sonjica, former Cabinet Minister, South Africa.
The engagement underscored the importance of broadening the dialogue on future international cooperation and policy-making.