Geopolitical conflict and war are accelerating multilateral fragmentation—affecting formal channels of international cooperation. This conference will discuss what can be achieved despite the turbulence—with a particular focus on breakthroughs in energy transitions, AI adoption, finance for development and the future of international cooperation for development. Coalitions of the willing across the globe and between public and private sector actors, are emerging to fill the vacuum. A less formal but vital coalition for sustainability is in the making.
Prepared by UNDP, the HSC Curtain Raiser 2026 provides context and insights ahead of the conference.