Attending the 2024 Berlin Global Dialogue (BGD), a new global summit that convenes high-level leaders to discuss economic, political, and social policy, was a uniquely transformative experience. I spent three days at ESMT Berlin along with 30 students from Global Network for Advanced Management schools who had been invited as members of the conference’s Young Voices delegation. For me, a joint-degree student at Yale SOM and the Jackson School of Global Affairs and an officer in the U.S. Navy with experience serving in Europe and working with NATO, the conference perfectly embodied the intersection of business, policy, and geopolitics. It provided an invaluable platform for thought-provoking discussions aligned with my academic pursuits and professional aspirations.
The Young Voices delegation at the conference had a unique opportunity to engage directly with global leaders, dive into critical geopolitical and economic conversations, and explore how industries like finance, retail manufacturing, and energy are pivoting in response to emerging trends. As representatives of the next generation, we didn’t just absorb insights from experienced leaders; we also surfaced concerns and viewpoints of our own.
This year’s BGD theme, “Building Common Ground,” was more than a motto—it was a call to action. Speakers repeatedly stressed that leaders cannot simply expect to “find” common ground. Rather, consensus must be intentionally constructed through thoughtful cooperation and collective effort. Over three days, we explored four central areas in which this cooperation is especially needed: geopolitical shifts, climate change, technological advances, and global inequality. Each session highlighted the necessity of partnerships between business and government in shaping the global economy, and emphasized a shared responsibility to society.
Highlights of the conference included inspiring discussions between prominent leaders such as Emmanuel Macron, president of France; Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, president of Kosovo; and the CEOs of several major financial institutions. President Macron emphasized the urgent need for Europe to simplify regulations, establish a unified capital market, and invest in self-reliance, warning that over-regulation and outdated economic models threaten stability and foster dependence on non-European producers. Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, echoed this call for economic pragmatism, stressing the essential role of financial institutions in managing risk and supporting emerging markets. He advocated for innovation over regulation, underscored the responsibility of corporations to fill gaps left by public administrations, and stressed the need to address political polarization through in-person dialogue.
President Osmani-Sadriu underscored the importance of governance and diplomacy for regional stability, particularly amid ongoing tensions in the Balkans. A standout moment for me was speaking with Ola Källenius, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz, about the automotive industry’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs). His insights into the complexities of scaling EV production—adjusting supply chains, training the workforce, and managing geopolitical trade dynamics—captured the broader themes of pragmatic economic policies and the need for balanced global cooperation.
Another rewarding aspect of the summit was connecting with the incredible members of the Young Voices delegation, who brought unique perspectives from diverse disciplines and regions. Our conversations delved into the role of business in driving positive societal change and the critical link between policy decisions and real-world outcomes. While I am confident these discussions will contribute to shaping the future one day, I believe it was the genuine connections and meaningful relationships we formed that truly left me feeling optimistic.
The 2024 BGD was more than just a conference; it was a platform for learning, networking, and contributing to a global conversation that will shape the coming decades. Being part of the Young Voices delegation added a unique layer to my Yale experience, and I am grateful for the chance to represent the university and share my perspectives with young, driven leaders from around the world. I left the summit and returned to the U.S. feeling confident and inspired about the power of dialogue and collaboration to drive meaningful change.