Global Citizen Dialogue – Future by us

Global Citizen Dialogue: Economic solutions for Climate Change Crisis

2023 Global Citizen Dialogue: Let’s Take an Action!

On May 23th, 2023, the Global Citizen Dialogue (GCD) series organized its first seminar in 2023, bringing together students from 13 countries to delve into the pressing issue of climate change and explore economic solutions. Building upon the success of the 2022 GCD series on "Digital Transformation and Our Future Space," GCD shifted its focus to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With climate change taking center stage this year, the seminar aimed to address the urgent need to tackle climate change by examining the intersection of the economy and the environment.

Frederic Spohr, Head of FNF Korea, emphasized the matter of urgency surrounding the climate crisis and its intricate connection to individual freedom in his opening speech. While acknowledging that addressing climate change often requires limiting individual freedom, Spohr emphasized the importance of prioritizing saving our planet. He proposed leveraging individual freedom to foster innovation and creativity, inspiring market-based approaches and incentivizing the invention of technologies that combat climate change.

Multidimensional Challenges and PolyCrisis

Dr. Hwang, Jintaek, Chairperson of Global Energy Forum and Former President of Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning (KETEP) gave a presentation which shed light on the multifaceted challenges we face today. He began by highlighting the far-reaching impacts of COVID-19 and other crises, including the Russia-Ukrainia war, food and energy shortages, supply chain disruptions, inflation, and a global recession. Prof. Hwang introduced the concept of "PolyCrisis," where various crises interact and create a compounded impact greater than the sum of their parts. He underscored the necessity to act “collectively, decisively, and with a long term lens in order to shape an inclusive, sustainable world.” His presentation concluded with a poignant quote from the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), warning of the "rapidly closing window" of opportunity to secure a livable and sustainable future for all.

GCD's commitment to Sustainable Change

During the discussion session, moderated by Dr. In Suk Kim, President of HANDA Forum and Senior Fellow of Institute for Hybrid Future Culture of Sungkyunkwan University, participants delved into critical questions and practical solutions for the economic challenges posed by climate change. The conversation centered on topics such as the balance between economic development and environmental concerns, the role of individual actions, the pursuit of a just transition while maintaining economic perspectives, and the need for differentiated strategies across nations. Dr. Kim also mentioned the importance of effective communication and collaboration between the government, environmental organizations, academia and related industries to achieve policy success.

The seminar marked the beginning of a series of programs dedicated to addressing the UN SDG Goal 13: "Climate Action." With thought-provoking presentations, engaging discussions, and interactive activities, the 2023 GCD series aims to inspire individuals and communities to shape a sustainable future for all.