We are currently witnessing peaceful and democratic societies becoming increasingly fragile and unstable. An important factor in this development is a growing lack of trust between citizens as well as between citizens and public institutions. Dialogue can help to reestablish trust, and leaders play an important role in promoting and improving this powerful societal tool.

The 12th BMW Foundation Global Table takes place in partnership with the Nansen Center for Peace and Dialogue during the Lillehammer Dialogue City. The aim of the four-day meeting is to provide a deeper understanding of why some voices from society are not sufficiently heard and how urban spaces and public debate are changing through self-organized community dialogues. We want to identify effective ways in which dialogue can build trust and prevent conflicts.

Serving as a bridge between the MENA region and southern Europe, the port city of Marseilles embodies the common cultural history and the complex interdependencies of the Mediterranean region. The BMW Foundation Responsible Leaders Forum Mediterranean will acknowledge the great diversity and dynamism in this part of the world and reflect on the opportunities and challenges this offers to our collective humanity.

We live in an age of high connectivity, where change happens at lightning speed. Every day around the globe, leaders are making far-reaching decisions that shape the future. It’s time to reflect on how we assume responsibility, how we lead, and how we can collectively create a better tomorrow. Together with 40 leaders from all sectors and from around the globe, participants will have the opportunity to share and expand their expertise and knowledge.

The circular economy is an alternative economic model with high economic potential for European economies, which does not harm nature or future generations. Unlike Denmark, Finland, France, and the Netherlands, however, Germany remains poised in the starting blocks.

At the Denkraum, we want to discuss and develop ideas how to pave the path towards a circular economy – for this model for the future can only succeed with broad support from across society.

The keynote speakers are Dr. Maja Göpel, Secretary General of the German Advisory Council on Global Change, and Thomas Rau, entrepreneur, architect, and visionary. The participants will subsequently engage in small-group discussions with experts and flesh out their ideas.