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1. Conceptual Orientation
- The discussion highlighted the importance of framing the conference around the broader moment of transition facing humanity.
- Many aspects of the current global order appear to be under strain. Social, economic, and environmental challenges suggest that humanity is passing through a period characterised by both disintegrative forces, visible in the breakdown of existing systems, and integrative forces, which are gradually giving rise to new patterns of cooperation, governance, and collective responsibility.
- The conference could therefore explore:
- The current moment in human affairs and the implications of the accelerating processes of integration and disintegration.The trajectory of the new world order as the old one is crumbling in front of our eyes. Humanity finds itself in the middle of accelerating the disintegration phase.
- The vision and principles that can guide humanity through this transitional phase and the tools, approaches, and capacities required to navigate this period constructively, i.e. what the overall vision is, how we can navigate this phase as there are challenges, and the tools required in this transitory phase.
- The role of individuals and communities as protagonists of change, contributing to processes that strengthen unity, justice, and long-term well-being.
- A key consideration will be ensuring universal participation in the conference design, enabling contributions across time zones and encouraging participation from the Global South, youth, and friends of the Faith, both as speakers and participants.
- The aim would be to create a conference space that not only reflects on the challenges of our time but also strengthens hope grounded in action and constructive social transformation.
2. Concept Note
2.1 Context
Reflection on several dimensions of the present global context, including:
- Economic instability and systemic pressures within existing economic models
- Environmental degradation and the growing urgency of ecological stewardship
These realities form part of the wider set of challenges confronting humanity at this moment.
2.2 A Wider Perspective
Beyond recognising the disintegration of existing systems, the conversation emphasised the importance of understanding the larger picture of transformation.
Several reflections were highlighted:
- The environment should be understood not merely as a technical issue but as an integral dimension of Creation, calling for a deeper sense of stewardship and responsibility.
- Processes of community development and environmental stewardship are deeply interconnected.
The challenge is not only to analyse reality, but also to develop the capacity to read reality in a way that inspires constructive action and learning.
3. Conference flow and potential additional speakers
The following contributions were proposed:
- Opening remarks: Monica Maghami
- Closing remarks: Arthur Dahl
Reflective speakers to be considered:
- Hugh Lock: Regenerative agriculture and sustainable livelihoods
- Naz Ganea: Perspectives on international institutions and global governance through Bahá’à principles
- Amin Moghaddam: Systems thinking and the interplay of integrating and disintegrating forces
Suggestion of strengthening the presence of youth voices, particularly from the Global South and friends of the faith.
Other potential additional speakers include:
Claudia Martans: Environmental lawyer, Panama
Karen Wong: Environmental policy specialist, IIED (Latin America and Caribbean)
Gabrielle Galdino: ESG lawyer, Brazil
Vahid Shaykzadeh: Environmental policy specialist, Brazil
Roya Meshki: Youth specialist in energy policy and governance, Kenya
There was also interest in including speakers from regions currently experiencing environmental or societal pressures in South America, Africa, and Asia, whose perspectives could contribute valuable insights. More speakers to be thought through.
4. Conference Format
To support universal participation across time zones, the following format was proposed:
- Short pre-recorded contributions from speakers (approximately 5–10 minutes).
- Interactive breakout sessions, for example four parallel thematic discussions led by different speakers.
- Breakout spaces that also allow time for reflection, dialogue, and networking among participants.
Wendi and Amin will explore suitable platforms to facilitate these breakout sessions.
5. Next Steps
- An initial Concept Note has been drafted and will be refined by Amin, incorporating the points emerging from today's discussion.
- Additional speakers will be considered.
- The date and duration of the conference will need to be confirmed, including whether there is flexibility regarding the number of days.