A Critical Conversation during the MSC2025 weekend
As global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts gather in Munich for the Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2025, I’m excited to bring together thought leaders in democracy, leadership, and historians for an exclusive roundtable discussion on Empowering Democracy through Leadership. This event will explore the urgent need for leadership in defending democratic values in an era of rising authoritarianism, disinformation, and geopolitical uncertainty.
The Role of Leadership in Defending Democracy
The world in 2025 faces a critical juncture. From the manipulation of digital platforms to declining public trust in democracy and the erosion of democratic norms, the situation is concerning and requires steadfast, ethical, and principled leadership.
The roundtable discussion will feature renowned experts who have been at the forefront of analyzing these threats and proposing solutions:
Anne Applebaum – Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and commentator on authoritarianism, democracy, and disinformation. Her latest book, Autocracy, Inc. (2024), examines how autocratic leaders collaborate across borders to weaken democratic institutions. Anne Applebaum’s insights at the roundtable will likely build on the World Economic Forum's (WEF 2025) discussions on disinformation and its impact on democratic governance. Her expertise on the weaponization of information by authoritarian regimes will provide critical perspectives on safeguarding democratic discourse.
Timothy Snyder – Yale professor and esteemed historian, whose works such as On Tyranny (2017) and Bloodlands (2010) provide a deep historical perspective on authoritarian tactics and their impact on democratic societies. His recent remarks at WEF 2025 emphasized the urgent need for democracies to proactively defend against autocratic encroachments. By drawing parallels between historical authoritarian regimes and current global trends he warns that complacency allows authoritarian regimes to reshape global governance in their favor.
Joe Kaeser – Former President and CEO of Siemens AG and current Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Siemens Energy & Daimler Truck AG, who has been vocal about the role of corporate leadership in upholding democratic principles. As a WEF board member, Kaeser spoke at the WEF 2025 about the intersection of economic stability and democratic resilience, highlighting how businesses must champion transparency and ethical governance to combat authoritarian pressures. Kaeser emphasized the rapid transformation in global power structures, referring to it as a "Zeitenwende" or "turning point."
Strengthening Transatlantic Relations Amidst Global Challenges
With ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning U.S.-Europe relations, China’s global influence, and Russia’s strategic maneuvers, the roundtable will serve as a pivotal moment to reinforce transatlantic cooperation.
All the experts share the view of the necessity of transatlantic unity, arguing that democratic nations must present a cohesive front against the fragmentation efforts of authoritarian powers. Without a coordinated strategy, democracies risk being outmaneuvered in both economic and political arenas.
Upcoming Roundtable: Empowering Democracy through Leadership
Held under Chatham House Rules, this discussion ensures an open and candid exchange among a curated group of policy experts, business leaders, and academics.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a high-level conversation on:
Addressing the erosion of democratic norms
Strengthening global alliances to promote democratic governance
Developing strategies to counter authoritarian influence
Check this space for my take on the roundtable and insights from other side events at this year's MSC.