Diplomatic World_65_WEB_HR_final

65
INTERLINKING POLITICS, DIPLOMACY, BUSINESS & FINANCE
ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY, CULTURAL DIPLOMACY & HEALTH
HER
MAJESTY
QUEEN
MATHILDE
QUEEN OF BELGIANS
URSULA
VON DER LEYEN
PRESIDENT
OF THE
EUROPEAN
COMMISSION
SHEIKHA
HEND
BINT FAISAL
AL QASSEMI
ALEXANDER
DE CROO
PRIME MINISTER
OF
BELGIUM
AL GORE
FORMER
UNITED STATES
VICE PRESIDENT
PROF.
AMEENAH
GURIB-FAKIM
6 th PRESIDENT OF THE
REPUBLIC OF
MAURITIUS
QAIS
AL SUWAIDI
DIRECTOR OF THE
CLIMATE CHANGE
DEPARTMENT AT
MOCCAE
UNITED ARAB
EMIRATES
GÉZA ANDREAS
FREIHERR
VON GEYR
AMBASSADOR
OF THE FEDERAL
REPUBLIC
OF GERMANY
STANLEY
JOHNSON
HOW I BECAME
AN
ENVIRNOMENTALST
PRINCE
LUDWIG
OF BAVARIA
MY AFRICA VIRUS
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The ongoing pandemic has changed the way we live. It will also
change the way diplomacy is conducted. Diplomacy has gone
virtual and diplomats have been deprived of one of their most
potent tools: personal contact.
Last year, for example, and for the first time ever, the United
Nations General Assembly - the annual meeting of world leaders
in New York – was held in a virtual format with pre-recorded
video presentations and videoconferences by world leaders.
There is a strong consensus that we need to build back better
after COVID-19. For this to happen, new innovative approaches
are needed as we adapt to new circumstances, and I am certain
that today’s speakers will shed some light into this topic. One
thing is certain: global cooperation and solidarity are central to
responding to and mitigating the social, economic and health
effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
No country in the world can stand alone to fight and tackle such
menace. I hope this crisis will catalyse a deep reflection on the
strengthening of multilateral structures and capacities of international
institutions to be better equipped to deal with challenges
such as pandemics.
Furthermore, and relevant to today’s discussions, digitalization
and emergence of new technologies have completely shifted
the way the world works, and the pandemic will only accelerate
these trends. Think how technology has increased all aspects of
people’s lives.
While we could be forgiven for adopting short-term thinking as
we chart the way out of this crisis, we must not lose a sense of
perspective. I am referring to the all-important 2030 Sustainable
Development Goals, and the role of innovation in driving recovery
and progress towards the SDGs. Sustainability and innovation
must go hand-in-hand.
Barbara Dietrich,
CEO and President, Diplomatic World
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Roundtable on Sustainability From The Maldives to the World
3

08 10
12 66
77
78
HER MAJESTY QUEEN MATHILDE
OF THE BELGIANS
ALEXANDER DE CROO
PRIME MINISTER OF BELGIUM
URSULA VON DER LEYEN
PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION
RICARDO GUADALUPE
CEO OF HUBLOT
WE ARE ALL CELEBRITIES
HERCULES THEODORUS
KOEN VANMECHELEN
LAMOUSEION
16 20 22 80
84
88
AL GORE, FORMER UNITED STATES
VICE PRESIDENT
AMEENAH GURIB-FAKIM, PRESIDENT OF THE
REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS (2015-2018)
CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE SIDS
H.E. GÉZA ANDREAS FREIHERR VON GEYR
AMBASSADOR OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC
OF GERMANY TO THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
LEON LÖWENTRAUT
LEONISMO EXHIBITIONS
PARVATI FOUNDATION LEADS ARCTIC
FREE TO SAVE THE WORLD
28 34 38 94
100
102
PRINCE LUDWIG OF BAVARIA
MY AFRICA VIRUS
H.E. GAHENDRA RAJBHANDARI
AMBASSADOR OF NEPAL
SHEIKHA HEND BINT FAISAL AL QASSEMI
SHEIKH SAQER BIN MOHAMED AL QASIMI
STANLEY JOHNSON, HOW I BECAME
AN ENVIRNOMENTALST
5TH CC FORUM HELD IN DUBAI
39 42 44 104
106
108
MAX STUDENNIKOFF, FOUNDER AND CEO OF
CC FORUM “INVESTMENT IN SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT”
ADNAN AL NOORANI CHAIRMAN OF THE
BOARD OF THE PRIVATE OFFICE OF
SHEIKH SAQER BIN MOHAMED AL QASIMI
QAIS AL SUWAIDI DIRECTOR OF THE CLIMATE
CHANGE DEPARTMENT AT MOCCAE
ROUNDTABLE ON SUSTAINABILITY:
FROM THE MALDIVES TO THE WORLD
DAVID GIBSON-MOORE,
PRESIDENT OF GULF ANALYTICA
DR. RAPHAEL NAGEL FOUNDER AND
CHAIRMAN OF THE ABRAHAMIC
BUSINESS CIRCLE
56 60 64 110
114
118
MARIA HALL INTERCULTURAL EXPERT AND
MIDDLE EASTERN PROTOCOL ADVISOR
LEO FABER DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ASIA-EUROPE FOUNDATION (ASEF)
SPIEF 2021 FROM ESG TO SUSTAINABLE
FINANCE IN EURASIA
ROSCONGRESS FOUNDATION AND UN
TECHNOLOGY BANK SIGN COOPERATION
AGREEMENT
EXPLORE THE FUTURE AT LIVING TOMORROW
MONACO STREAMING FILM FESTIVAL
IRIS MARIA ALEXIS VAN DER VEKEN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RESPONSIBLE
JEWELLERY COUNCIL
4 5

124 128 132 174
177
178
RAYA ABU GULAL
SPOTLIGHT AYUMI MOORE AOKI
CEO AND FOUNDER WOMEN IN TECH
GLOBAL MOVEMENT
WE ARE BUILDING BROTHER AND
SISTERHOODS, ARIJIT BHATTACHARYYA
BEN KRIGLER, AGAIN AND AGAIN,
IT’S THE STORYTELLING THAT MAKES
KRIGLER PERFUMES SO DISTINCTIVE
BALTHASAR BRUSSELS GRAND SABLON
136 138 140 180
184
186
HANDOVER OF THE PEACE COLUMN
TO THE INTERNATIONAL CLUB ICAA
IN THE FOREIGN MINISTRY
PROF. RUDY AERNOUDT, ENTREPRENEURSHIP
THE BEST WAY TO COMBAT MR. COVID
PROF. RUDY AERNOUDT, BUSINESS ANGELS
WANTED, MORE THAN EVER!
ZOË HARRIES SENIOR FDI & SPECIAL
ECONOMIC ZONES ADVISOR PROJECT
DIRECTOR, WORLD FZO CEO, IMPACT ZONES
WELCOME TO BELGIUM
GALILEO DOESN’T NEED A FACE MASK
142 145 146 192
194
196
WORLD ART DUBAI
LEADING THE WORLD WITH TRUST EGYPT-
JAPAN EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP FOR
RESILIENT SOCIETIES
THE PHARAOHS’ GOLDEN PARADE
NATIONAL MUSEUM
OF EGYPTIAN CIVILIZATION
GENIA CHEF - NIBELUNGENLIED EXHIBITIONS
MAESTRO YURI BASHMET
148 152 158
200
208
FESTIVE LAUNCH OF THE BRUSSELS-
UZBEKISTAN FRIENDSHIP GROUP
SVETLANA BANERJEE, FOUNDER OF
CAMOMILE IMPACT COMMUNITYIMPACT
INVESTING – THE NEW NORMAL
AXEL ENTHOVEN
DIPLOMACY THROUGH ICONS
KILIAN SAUERESSIG
LIGHT IS THE KEY TO KNOWLEDGE
JAN DE MAERE, THE NEUROSCIENCE OF
EMOTION AND QUALITY IN THE PERCEPTION
OF BEAUTY IN ART
A REVOLUTIONARY STARTUP PROJECT
TO SAVE MILLIONS OF HUMAN LIVES
160
164
170
210
SCHLOSS KRUMBACH
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
AND ITS EDUCATION FORMULA
FRANCESCO MITRANO
THE FUTURE IS IN THE STARS
IN THE BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC V8
DR. DR. MED. DOMINIK DUSCHER, THERE IS
EVERY REASON TO BE CHEERFUL AND HAPPY
6 7

inequalities and social injustice pervade even the most prosperous
societies.
Madam Commissioner,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Almost 6 years ago, the international community unanimously
adopted a roadmap to a more Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs). Agenda 2030 and the 17 sustainable development goals
were born out of a shared perception: we needed a new definition
of progress. “Business as usual” was no longer an option.
Major economic, social and ecological imbalances were taking
us down a dangerous path.
The SDGs helped us connect the dots. Climate change and
poverty, biodiversity and human wellbeing, depletion of natural
resources and instability, governance and inequalities are all
related. And they all need urgent and equal attention. This new
UN Agenda was designed to be truly universal. It underlined the
interdependence between north and south, between prosperous
and poor, between people and planet. It also sought to complement
and multiply the impact of official efforts by encouraging
innovative partnerships, with the private sector, academia, and
civil society.
Awareness of the SDGs grew. They were embraced by many
stakeholders: international institutions, governments, business,
citizens, think tanks and philanthropic organizations. They gained
in support and in credibility. They became a reference in sustainability
reports, in policy papers and in academic research. Unfortunately,
real action for their implementation remained uneven
and sometimes sluggish. We fell behind in fighting climate
HER MAJESTY
QUEEN MATHILDE
OF THE BELGIANS
On occasion of the virtual policy dialogue
“Why the UN Sustainable Development Goals
matter more than ever”
change. Inequalities grew further. Hunger rose again. The world
was definitely off track. The UN Secretary General, Antonio
Guterres, raised the alarm and the UN launched a Decade of
Action for the SDGs.
Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused immense
suffering. Millions of lives have been cut short. Many will bear the
consequences of physical and mental trauma for years. Around
the globe, jobs and incomes have been lost. Schools have
closed for months at a time. Domestic violence has risen
to unprecedented levels. COVID-19 has disproportionately hit
the most vulnerable. It has also shed a harsh light on how
Virtual policy dialogue “Why the UN Sustainable Development Goals matter
more than ever” with Her Majesty the Queen of the Belgians, UN SDG Advocate
and Jacki Davis Senior Adviser European Policy Centre, Jutta Urpilainen
European Commissioner for International Partnerships European Commission,
Guillaume Lafortune Director the UN Sustainable Development Solutions
Network, Paris Office
The pandemic has affected us all, one way or another. But it has
also demonstrated vividly how we are all connected. How we
are responsible for each other. How one’s actions affect others.
How inaction, in one part of the world, can have dramatic consequences
on the other side of the globe. Not only for now, but
also for the future.
As we move toward recovery, we might be tempted to recreate
the world as we knew it, to resume our way of life. However, we
are now better equipped to grasp the need for change. To reason
and act differently. To plan for the future. To pay more attention
to and deal more swiftly with alerts. To be mindful of the longerterm
consequences of our choices and actions. To build our own
resilience as interdependent societies and people. To leave no
one behind. And, moreover, to do no harm along the way.
Interconnectedness, future-oriented action and shared resilience
are at the heart of the SDGs. As we embark on rebuilding and on
building better for the future, we are lucky to have at our disposal
this readily available guide for a coherent transition and transformation.
We should rely on the SDGs to the full extent of their
potential. Obviously, they are a precious accounting and monitoring
mechanism for registering and comparing progress. They are
also a well-thought-out toolbox to help us to move ahead on all
fronts. More importantly though, they present us with a reasoned
and coherent picture of the future we are trying to achieve. For
this, they need to be fully embraced by all stakeholders. The
European Green Deal has clearly shown the way in this regard.
Madam Commissioner,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As has often been stated, this crisis offers a once in a generation
opportunity to fundamentally rethink our economies and our
societies. Fortunately, the groundwork laid down at the United
Nations, some years ago, remains ever more relevant. It is available
to all those who want, and need, to work on the transformation
that will secure a sustainable future - for all. This opportunity
should not be missed.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has asked the advocates
to amplify the UN messages on the state of implementation of
the SDGs and urgent need for progress. In practice, this means
relaying these messages to a variety of audiences, like today,
also both in Belgium and abroad. I also find it very important to
meet and discuss these issues with young people and students -
what I will do also next week at the UCL, with the people that will
be concerned most by the changes we need to bring about.
As I mentioned in my address before, the SDGs are all important
and they are all interdependent and we should not lose sight of
this. In my capacity as an SDG advocate one of my priorities is
SDG 4, quality education. This is an area where much progress
has been achieved; but gaps remain huge, between developed
and developing countries, between girls and boys. And as I said,
the situation has deteriorated further because of the COVID
pandemic. It is difficult to meet progress on the other SDGs if
people do not get the education to be a citizen, a full citizen.
Education for SDG and education for citizenship are also important
in this regard.
Mental health and wellbeing, part of the SDG 3, is also for me
a priority. It is a subject that has received too little attention so
far. And in many countries, there is still a stigma attached to
the psychological problems and therefore a lack of access to
counselling and care. And the COVID pandemic has at last made
it possible to discuss these issues frankly and openly and we
should make sure that this change becomes permanent.
I believe our conversation has underlined two things:
On the one hand, the importance of a holistic approach.
Of course, we need to activate separate tracks to move on.
But genuine implementation of the SDGs means, as I said, a
change of mindset, rethinking values, changing education,
mobilising young people and new stakeholders and understanding
better the consequences of our choices.
Secondly, the future is not a fixed deadline. As we adapt – or
fail to do so – it will look different. We need to keep track of
progress, definitely. But also, of what really works and what does
not. We should have the capacity to plan and to change course
in due time and no longer wait until it is too late to react.
8 9

ALEXANDER DE CROO
PRIME MINISTER OF BELGIUM
JOINS GenU AS GLOBAL LEADER
In his new role, the Prime Minister will catalyze
more support for youth skills and employability so
that young people can thrive in the digital and green economy
Generation Unlimited is honored to announce that H.E.
Alexander De Croo, Prime Minister of Belgium, has joined
Generation Unlimited as a Leader, alongside António Guterres,
Secretary-General of the United Nations; H.E. Paul Kagame,
President of the Republic of Rwanda; H.E. Uhuru Muigai
Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya; and H.E. Paula
Mae Weekes, President, Trinidad, and Tobago.
The Prime Minister has played an instrumental role as a GenU
Champion since 2018 to prioritize digital connectivity and online/
remote learning and skilling on the global agenda. In his new
role, the Prime Minister aims to catalyze more support for youth
skills and employability to support young people to thrive in the
digital and green economy.
Generation Unlimited (GenU) is a global
multi-sector partnership to meet the urgent
need for expanded education, training and
employment opportunities for young people,
aged 10 to 24, on an unprecedented scale.
Despite the challenges that exist – or perhaps
because of them – leaders around the world are
responding positively to GenU’s mission and
asking how they can help. Politicians, CEOs,
foundation heads and civic leaders are recognizing
that forging innovative collaborations with young
people at the center is the best way forward
Alexander De Croo Prime minister of Belgium
impacting their future. The next years, we’ll need more invest-
Photo: Shutterstock
Unlimited Leaders Group to forge stronger public-private
Most young people across the globe are inheriting an unequal
playing field with limited opportunity to shape their own future or
the contours of the societies they inhabit. Disruption in education
www.generationunlimited.org
www.unicef.org
ments in quality education and skills development.
We will also have to boost young people’s entrepreneurial skills
alliances that will connect young people to the education and
digital skills they need, quickly and at scale”.
and economic opportunities, social isolation, and uncertainty
so that they can stand strong in a digital, greener and more
Kevin Frey, Chief Executive Officer of Generation Unlimited said:
about the future, have all negatively impacted the well-being of
diverse economy. In the end, our hopes rest on the creativity and
“COVID-19 has induced a once-in-a-generation opportunity
young people globally.
energy of young people. I am looking forward to speak out for
to ensure all young people access opportunities to develop
skills - foundational, transferable, digital, entrepreneurial, or
them and work with them to drive this important global agenda
the skills to realize their potential. GenU is aiming to reach 200
The need to equip youth with the skills required to thrive in the
job-specific-that every young person needs to prepare for
forward.”
million young people in 190 countries by 2030 with entrepreneur-
digital and green economy has never been more urgent.
a better future.
ial and skill-building initiatives. The leadership, experience, and
UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta H. Fore said: “We need all
political leverage of PM De Croo will be crucial to realizing this
Prime Minister De Croo will work together with governments,
Alexander De Croo said: “I am excited to join the Generation
hands on deck to rebuild economies and prepare young people
ambition.
businesses, and young people to mobilize political commitment
Unlimited Leaders Group. For an entire generation of young
for a technologically driven future. We look forward to working
and investments that support young people to develop their
people, the coronavirus pandemic is a defining moment that is
with Prime Minister De Croo as a member of the Generation
10 11

URSULA VON DER LEYEN
PRESIDENT OF THE
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Speech at the Nobel Prize Summit
Esteemed Nobel Laureates,
virologist Peter Piot. Working with them reminded me of a phrase
Distinguished guests,
I first heard when I was a medical student in Germany.
Ladies and gentlemen,
It’s a quote from Rudolf Virchow, a 19th century physician who
It is an honour to participate in the first Nobel Prize Summit. For
authored a seminal study on epidemics and public health. Vir-
120 years, the Nobel Prize has been awarded to the brightest
chow said that “politics is nothing else but medicine on a large
minds in each generation – in science, in literature and in politics.
scale.” I can hardly think of a better definition of everything we’ve
done this year. We have relied on science. And we have tried to
Every Nobel Prize celebrates one leap forward for humanity.
put politics at the service of science, and public health.
From Marie Curie’s radioactivity to Emmanuelle Charpentier’s
genome editing. It’s science at the service of humankind.
For instance, exactly one year ago Europe contributed to
creating the Access to Covid Tools Accelerator. It works for the
The pandemic has reminded us how much we need science. In
the recent past, some political leaders questioned the value of
worldwide development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics
against COVID-19. COVAX is part of this initiative. It is THE
Ursula von der Leyen President of the European Commission
Photo: Shutterstock
science and the advice of experts. For me, as a medical doctor
global facility making vaccines available and affordable to all
by training, it was painful to watch. So I am particularly glad for
low- and middle-income countries, with financing from high-in-
been telling us that human health, animal health and our planet’s
this opportunity to celebrate the Nobel laureates’ contribution,
come countries. Science tells us that we must fight the virus in
health are one. The one health concept. Now, everyone sees this.
and put renewed trust in science.
all corners of the world. This is the only effective strategy against
the pandemic. But for this, we need international cooperation.
This year, the whole world has turned towards science to
We need politics intended as medicine on a large scale.
understand what was happening to us. What was this invisible
force that shuttered our lives and our communities. We’ve turned
Today I would like to tell you three reasons why, and three ways
towards science for advice and for solutions. And science did
how, our governments need to work with science. The first
deliver. In less than ten months after the beginning of the pan-
reason is: we need science to make sense of the world around
demic, the first vaccines were approved.
us. Second, we need science to guide us. And third, we need
science to find new solutions to the challenges of our times, and
If today we have hope, it is thanks to men and women who have
to fuel innovation for a healthy planet.
dedicated their entire life to the laboratory, to a career of hard
work and – very often – little recognition. The world owes you.
Let me begin with the first: Science to make sense of the world.
I will not forget how much the scientific community has helped
The pandemic has already killed almost three million people.
us in the toughest moments of this year. In the early days of the
It’s hard to fathom such tragedy, and how fragile our human life
crisis, I met regularly with a group of scientists, chaired by
can be. But science had warned us. For years, scientists have
12 13

With the destruction of forests, contacts between wildlife and hu-
But she never gave up. And with time, other researchers joined
mans have increased massively. Because of the loss of biodiversity,
the so-called “buffering species” are disappearing. And new
pathogens are increasingly crossing over between animals and
humans. We ignored the warnings of SARS, MERS and Ebola. So
we have to change course, because we have entered the age of
pandemics.
During this summit we will hear from Professor Johan Rockström.
He is among those who came up with the idea of planetary
boundaries.
Nine limits that humanity should not cross, if we don’t want to
set off irreversible and devastating consequences. Professor
her fight. Among them the BioNTech team, who could count on
several grants from the European Union. Our scientists must
have the freedom to explore the frontiers of knowledge. And
for this, governments must support “pure science” and basic
research. This is the foundation of human progress. At the same
time, it is also vital to help bring discoveries from the laboratory
to the market. Alongside pure science, we need trans-disciplinary
science – connecting researchers with businesses, but also
with customers and civil society. It is with this in mind, that we
have developed our new research programme, Horizon Europe.
It’s the world’s largest, publicly funded transnational research
and innovation programme.
Former US Vice President Al Gore,
Nobel Prize Laureate, Co-Founder and
Chair of Generation Investment
Management, and Founder and
Chair of the Climate Reality Project
The opportunity to create tens of millions of new jobs is
becoming irresistible … A study from the Oxford Review of
Economic Policy shows that green stimulus measures
have both short- and long-term job creation and economic
advantages over traditional stimulus measures. In fact, green
investments generate three times as many jobs as fossil
fuel investments, dollar for dollar.
Rockström, whose research we have proudly funded, is now
With Horizon Europe we will also launch new innovation mis-
telling us that we have crossed four of these nine boundaries.
So we must act now, before it’s too late. And Europe is indeed
taking action. It is on this basis that we have built our European
Green Deal. It is because we trust science, that we have committed
to cutting by at least 55% our CO2 emissions already in
this decade. And to protecting at least 30% of land and sea here
in Europe. We now want to broker the same ambition at global
level, at the next UN Biodiversity Summit in Kunming. This will
have to be like COP21 was for climate. A Paris-style agreement
for biodiversity. Science is helping us make sense of a changing
world. We must listen to science. And Europe is listening.
sions, which aim to transform the way we live and do business
on this planet.
We envisage five missions:
- Beating cancer
- Making Europe climate resilient
- Restoring our oceans and waters
- 100 climate neutral cities by 2030
- Caring for our soils
Each one of them will tackle a great challenge of our times. Every
mission will fund research, but it will also strive to bring new dis-
Vidar Helgesen,
Executive Director of the Nobel Foundation
Today, more than ever, we need leading minds from
across a range of disciplines to come together to address
very urgent and very complex challenges that
our planet is facing, challenges that our very human
existence is facing. And we need those leading minds
to engage with policymakers - those who make
critical decisions for our future.
Think Globally - Act Locally
Sandra Diaz, Professor of Ecology at Córdoba National
University and Senior Member of the National Research
Council of Argentina
Science tells us that living nature is much more than
an inventory of species … It’s the intricate tapestry in which
all the living, including us humans, are intertwined. This living
fabric is essential to the functioning of the planet and
to humans within. Unfortunately, we now have incontestable
evidence that the living fabric of the Earth is being
unraveled fast.
This leads me to my second point. We need science to guide our
coveries to fruition, in a participative approach with citizens.
daily work. Europe is working very closely with the three international
panels, that bring science to the table of policy-makers:
• IPCC for climate
• IPBES for biodiversity
• and IRP for resources and the circular economy.
Their advice has been essential to build an international consensus
around our planet’s state of health. It is now time to
find ways for these platforms to work better together. Because
everything is connected. One health, one planet, one humanity.
So we must also join up our work on climate, on biodiversity
and on circularity. For a more effective multilateralism, guided by
Last but certainly not least: Besides the technological transformation,
we need a cultural transformation, too. And for this, we
need to be much better at bringing science into every home and
every community. We must invest in scientific education, at all
levels. We must help our children understand the pandemic, how
it started and how we can stop it. We must help them understand
how our planet works and how to save it, with climate education
in every school. A widespread scientific culture is the only antidote
against a mentality that sees conspiracies everywhere.
So yes, our democracies need science. And yes, we need a new
enlightenment. And this is why this Nobel Prize Summit is such
Marcia McNutt,
President of US National Academy of Sciences
The pandemic required massive mobilization of scientific
resources, of international cooperation ... Now I urge that we
bring this same sense of urgency to the coupled problems
of climate change and inequality, as this summit explores
humanity’s most pressing challenges: Can we reduce inequities
to safeguard the long-term potential of all of humanity?
And can we rapidly become effective stewards of Earth’s
climate and biosphere - the ultimate global commons?
Think Globally - Act Locally
Thomas Lovejoy, Professor of Ecosystems,
George Mason University
We have destroyed so much terrestrial nature that there is
as much carbon from destroyed nature in the atmosphere as
survives in current ecosystems. A good ending to climate
change will require bringing a significant portion
of that back to ecosystem restoration. We exist on a living
planet which works as a linked biological and physical
system. For a satisfactory outcome, that means we need
to manage ourselves.
science.
My third and final point is that we need science to innovate and
find solutions for the challenges of our age. This means that scientists
must have the resources they need to do their job. Think,
for instance, about vaccines based on messenger RNA.
Today, it’s a multi-billion dollar idea. But that wasn’t always the
case. Back in the 1990s the mother of mRNA vaccines, Professor
Katalin Karikó, had a hard time finding money for her research.
She recently recalled, and I quote: “Every night I was working:
grant, grant, grant. And it came back always no, no, no.”
an important initiative. Nobel laureates are humanity’s best and
brightest. The stalwarts of scientific culture. We need you to help
our kids understand this complex and beautiful world of ours.
We need you on television, on our social media feeds, into our
homes. A new enlightenment begins there.
So thank you to the Nobel foundation for your work.
And may this Nobel Prize Summit be the first in a long series.
Thank you very much for your attention.
Johan Rockström,
Director of the Potsdam Institute for
Climate Impact Research
We can no longer act incrementally. We need to act
exponentially, we need to act collectively, and we need to act
in parallel. This is a systemic transformation of societies,
and the biggest lift has to be done in the next 10 years. The
world has to cut global emissions by half to have a chance of
landing the world in a net-zero world economy by 2050.
Pay It Forward:
Envisioning Next Steps with Our Leaders of Tomorrow
Xiye Bastida, Climate Activist and Youth Leader
In this journey of emissions reductions, we must keep
in mind that our target is zero worldwide … We must keep in
mind that there are communities who rely on the health of the
Amazon rainforest, the Congo basin, the Yucatan jungle,
the Arctic and Antarctic, the Himalayas, and the health of
our oceans, lakes, and rivers. We must keep in mind that
climate justice is social justice.
14 15

AL GORE
FORMER UNITED STATES
VICE PRESIDENT
Speech at the Nobel Prize Summit
I am more optimistic today than ever, not just because so many
A report from the Climate Trace Coalition showed that replacing
world leaders announced significant stretch goals last week to
China’s coal fleet with renewables faster could save the country
cut greenhouse gas emissions in half over the next nine years.
USD 1.6 trillion over the next twenty years. In just two months,
Because, after all, their work is in many ways just beginning,
Climate TRACE, a global coalition of small AI-based technolo-
but their pledges have already set the direction of travel for
gy companies and NGOs, will release a comprehensive report
government policies that will evolve this decade and their new
fused by AI from multiple satellite constellations and voluminous
short-term goals will markedly increase the chance of actually
Internet data streams that will identify every significant source of
reaching net zero emissions by mid-century.
greenhouse gas emissions in the entire world, updated in nearly
real time. The resulting new era of radical transparency will likely
Alongside the world of politics and policy, the technology,
have a profound impact on the world’s ability to hold polluters
business and investment sectors have already leaped ahead.
accountable to their governments, investors, supply chain part-
The stunning cost reduction curves for clean, solar and wind
ners, NGOs and to the people of every nation.
electricity, for batteries, electric vehicles and for hundreds of less
well known but nevertheless dramatic efficiency improvements,
Similarly, electric cars and trucks will achieve price parity with
are profoundly reshaping the world’s capital stock.
internal combustion vehicles in key market sectors withing the
next two years, and in all model categories within five years. And
Last year, for example, 90 percent of all newly installed electricity
again, many governments are speeding ahead to mandate one
generation worldwide was renewable, much of it coupled with
hundred percent electric mobility by the end of this decade.
battery storage that magnifies its advantages over dirty fossil
fuels. In the decades ahead, the International Energy Agency
projects that percentage to rise to 95 percent and many local,
The market value of Tesla now exceeds the value of Exxon-
Mobil, Chevron, Shell and BP combined. Regenerative agriculture,
Al Gore Former United States Vice President
Photo: Shutterstock
regional and national jurisdictions are now mandating that renew-
sustainable forestry and fishing, zero carbon buildings, green
als provide 100 percent of their power in the next few years or
hydrogen and a circular economy are all gaining momentum, and
We are living in the early stages of a sustainability revolution, em-
for example, 70 percent of Americans strongly support President
in the next decade.
are now clearly in prospect in the years and decades ahead.
powered by machine learning, Artificial Intelligence, the Internet
Biden’s bold whole-of-government plan to address the crisis and
of Things (IoT) and the biotechnology revolution, and it has the
that includes a solid majority of those in the opposition party.
In many geographies, the ever-increasing advantages of clean
magnitude of the industrial revolution coupled with the speed
energy, not to mention the co-benefits of clean energy in sharply
of the digital revolution. It is, many believe, the largest business
reducing the particulate co-pollution that kills nine million people
opportunity in the history of the world.
every year and rises the death rate from COVID-19. These advantages
are leading to the replacement and early retirement of
Many investors are taking note. ESG investing is becoming
existing coal and gas facilities that often have decades of useful
mainstream, though green washing is a persistent issue. Some
lifetime remaining.
have decided to provide meaningful leadership by setting their
own stretch goals. The new net zero asset managers alliance,
So, around the globe, the market is being transformed with
including pension funds, foundations, active managers and
dizzying speed. In 2014, just before the Paris agreement was
the largest passive managers like BlackRock and Vanguard,
reached, solar and wind was cheaper than new coal and gas
have now committed that their entire portfolios containing
plants in only one percent of the world. Now, six years later, solar
USD 37 trillion will become net zero by 2050.
and wind are the cheapest sources of new electricity in more
than two thirds of the world and in the next five years they will
Moreover, people throughout the world, especially the rising
be cheaper in virtually all of the world.
younger generation, are insistently demanding that solutions to
the climate crisis be implemented even faster. In my country,
16 17

Our journey ahead will of course be difficult. Each day we are still
writer William Gibson once wrote, “the future is here, it is just not
spewing 162 million tons of man-made global warming pollution
into the atmosphere, as if it were an open sewer. And in order to
limit global temperature rise to the aspirational goals set out in
the landmark Paris Agreement of 1.5 degrees Celsius, greenhouse
gas emissions would need to fall by 7.5 percent every year
for the next decade. But market forces are now powering this
transition forward, and I believe inexorably.
The opportunity to create tens of millions of new jobs is also becoming
irresistible. One positive sign in my country: the coal miners’
union has publicly endorsed President Biden’s plan to phase
out coal. Moreover, a study from the Oxford Review of Economic
Policy, which includes the Nobel Prize winning economist Joe
evenly distributed”. It is scandalous that vaccines are in such
short supply in so many low-income developing nations, and it
is dangerous to the wealthy countries as well. Like the climate
crisis, the pandemic is a global threat and must be addressed
urgently in all nations.
The fast-rising impacts of the climate crisis are of course harsher
on low-income nations and in communities of colour, even as the
resources needed to adapt and respond are in shorter supply,
and like the pandemic their suffering will have impacts on the
wealthy nations as well.
Indeed, we are already seeing the flows of climate refugees
A Commitment to Cooperation
Special Presidential Envoy for Climate,
Secretary John Kerry
If we don’t do what we need to do between 2020 and 2030,
we can’t hold the Earth’s temperature to 1.5 degrees …
we can’t achieve net-zero by 2050. So this is a critical moment,
where lots of different previously easily accepted voices of
respect in our society have got to reclaim a baseline
of truth and reclaim the capacity to build consensus …
We are in a war against facts, against science, and so I think
we have to fight back. And I think scientists have to be
at the front of that fight ….
Stiglitz as a co-author, shows that green stimulus measures have
awaken xenophobia in some of the developed nations to which
both short and long-term job creation and economic advantages
over traditional stimulus measures.
In fact, green investments generate almost three times as many
jobs as fossil fuel investments dollar for dollar. In the US, solar
jobs have been growing five times faster than average job
growth. The fastest growing job of all is wind turbine technician.
So, as we embark on this historic transition, what can we learn
from the awful pandemic we are still struggling to overcome?
Has it had any effect on our thinking about the climate crisis?
I think it has. First, it has been a powerful lesson for everyone
that when the world’s leading scientists raise their voices in
unison to issue dire warnings about a deadly threat to our world,
they are migrating in growing numbers. As many as one billion
may cross borders in search of safety throughout this century.
Tragically, there is already evidence in some wealthy nations, that
this has contributed to the rise of populist authoritarianism, so
there are many reasons to accelerate our pace in implementing
this great transition to a sustainable future.
May I also add that we should reject the utterly insane and morally
hazardous counsel of those who are funding efforts to block
the sun’s rays from reaching the Earth by making our blue skies
white and taking away our children’s ability to see the stars. We
have the solutions we need, and we are gaining the political will
to implement them in time. Moreover, the new scientific findings
give us new hope for the speed with which we can halt global
Evidence of Urgency: An Island Nation’s Call to Action
David W. Panuelo, President of
The Federated States of Micronesia
If we are 607 islands today, untold numbers will disappear
by the end of the century - unless climate change can be
overcome by the nations that caused it. This reality is very
profound and frightening. For the Federated States of
Micronesia, climate change is our single greatest security
threat. Part of the answer to this threat is that the world
must transition to sustainable and renewable energy.
Vidar Helgesen,
Executive Director of The Nobel Foundation
We’ll be looking at how science across disciplines and across
borders can help solve the planet’s pressing problems at the
speed required and at the scale required. We know the truth
about the state of our planet - that’s a baseline drawn by
science. Advancing from that baseline is not least
the domain of political decision-makers.
Together We Stand: A View to the Future
Ursula Von der Leyen,
President of The European Commission
it is wise to listen and respond.
We now realize we should have listened to the virologists and
epidemiologists that tried to get us to mobilize preparations and
safeguards against the pandemic, almost exactly like the one
that did indeed come. And most came to see in here the persistent
and even louder warnings from climate scientists with fresh
eyes and fresh ears. Moreover, the burning of fossil fuels causes
all kinds of other problems that must also be addressed.
I think another effect of the pandemic is that it also became
warming if we act.
When we reach net zero, it will take only 30 years after that fact
before half of the CO2 presently in the atmosphere falls out.
Some will say that some of the CO2 will linger there for many
centuries, some for one or two millennia – they will see the sky
as half full of CO2. Many of us will see it, at that point, as half
empty. And the new scientific findings tell us that in as little as
three to five years after we stop adding to the CO2, the temperatures
will stop going up.
Giving Power to Solutions
Steven Chu, Nobel Prize laureate and Professor
of Physics and Molecular and Cellular Physiology
at Stanford University
Relieving poverty, increasing education, and improving
health care means that you aren’t on this population growth
treadmill rat race. Yes, we’re going to need technology to
grow more and better food for a growing population …
But it becomes harder to do that when we go from 7 billion,
to 10 billion, to 15 billion people and beyond.
We must invest in scientific education at all levels.
We must help our children understand the pandemic -
how it started, and how we can stop it.
We must help them understand how
our planet works, and how to save it, with climate education
in every school. A widespread scientific culture is
the only antidote against a mentality that sees conspiracies
everywhere. So yes, our democracies need science.
And yes, we need a new enlightenment.
easier to stretch our imagination in order to understand that our
interconnected world really can be suddenly knocked off and
disrupt our lives profoundly if we do not pay attention to the
scientists who are trying to protect our civilization. We also learn
that the impressive advances in science and technology have
given us new tools to use in responding to global threats.
The astonishing speed with which new vaccines have been
developed and deployed has been incredible, and the same is
true for the newly available solutions to the climate crisis.
However, we have also learned the deadly dangers of the growing
inequalities and inequities in our world. As the science fiction
For those who doubt that we as human beings have the inherent
ability to take these facts on board, to fight our way through the
epistemological crisis and find the meaning that is available, the
truth that can empower us, I will say: the will to act is itself a
renewable resource.
Giving Power to Solutions
Natalia Kanem, United Nations undersecretary-general and
executive director of the United Nations Population Fund
Over time, the world realized you can’t dictate population size.
It’s the woman’s choice, and given the choice, women
know exactly what they want. They want the number
of children they can afford and nurture … Right now,
there are 218 million women in the world who want to avoid
pregnancy, but they lack access to modern contraception.
A Pandemic Guide to Solving Problems with Science:
Peter Doherty, Nobel Prize Laureate and Patron
of The Doherty Institute at The University of Melbourne
In Australia … while we’ve been able to activate an enormously
successful and coordinated response to COVID, we haven’t
been able to do that with the question of how we generate
energy and diminish greenhouse gas issues because we are
a fossil fuel-producing/exporting state … The fact that we’ve
done so well with COVID-19 reflects decades of research,
which have been greatly supported in the US through
the NIH and even across the planet.
18 19

AMEENAH GURIB-FAKIM
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS
(2015-2018)
CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE SIDS
Climate change is happening and it is a truism on which most of
us agree except for a few climate sceptics.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) recognizes and endorses the enormous global challenges
posed by climatic changes and yet these agreements
often fall short on pragmatic financial and other mechanisms
to assist the most vulnerable countries. Contemporary climate
change diplomacy mirrors this phenomenon, as science and
global politics interact and converge to confront the vulnerabilities
of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) where sustainable
livelihoods are threatened by climate change-induced food,
water, health and other insecurities.
What does all that really means for Small Island states? There
is a growing sense of worry and a feeling of injustice as Small
Island States have contributed only an estimated 1% Green
House Gas emissions. Yet Small Islands communities, home to
some 5% of the global population, will bear the brunt and many
of them face an existential threat in the face of melting glaciers
and its corollary - sea level rise.
For the past few years, the world is witnessing erratic rainfall
patterns, with intense tropical cyclones in Eastern and Southern
Africa whilst on the opposite side of the global, Eastern Australia,
has experienced intense heat and deadly fires.
A small island state like Mauritius is not being spared and is
already experiencing the adverse effects of climate change. During
the last week of April 2021, the island received over 300mm
of rain over a 10-hour period. Warming of the ocean surface
has been detected, and this trend is expected to continue and
with further damage to other fragile ecosystems. Projections
show that this warming will be accompanied even further by an
increase in heavy rainfall events and other temporal and spatial
changes in precipitation patterns, and by more intense or
frequent cyclones/hurricanes.
Additional impacts to this trend are that arable land, water
resources and biodiversity are under pressure not just from increases
in population but also the unsustainable use of available
natural resources. Other associated effects will adversely affect
coral reefs and increase the acidification of the oceans. Mangroves
are also threatened both by sealevel rise and an increase
in extreme weather events. Water resources are already being
stressed by changes in precipitation patterns.
It is becoming increasingly clear that the responses to climate
change and sea-level rise must be coordinated and integrated
with existing policies of socio-economic development and environmental
conservation to facilitate sustainable development.
If for others, it may not imply doom and gloom, at least in the
short to medium term, we nonetheless have to address climate-related
risks smartly and with appropriate level of discipline
and rigour. Countries are going to experience economic losses
from reduced agricultural yields derived from the shortening
of the growing season or drought; flooding, loss of mangrove
forests due to sea-level rise, loss of coral reefs due to bleaching
and acidification of the oceans and damage to terrestrial forests
due to extreme events or through irresponsible cutting down of
trees and clearing of forests.
There is notable reduction in the size of freshwater lenses and
general water resource availability due to decreased rainfall and
saltwater intrusion; inundation of settlements and arable land on
the coast and reduction in tourism resulting from increases in
extreme weather and environmental degradation including the
drainage of wetlands and swamps which are protected by the
Ramsar Convention. Many countries, including Mauritius, have
proudly signed and ratified it, but one always questions
its application.
Traditional knowledge, long ignored up to now, can help address
some of the newly arising or worsening situations and help maintain
the resilience of SIDS, but may not be enough in the future
without the appropriate technologies which, unfortunately, many
countries can ill afford.
National adaptation programmes of action have been useful in
helping the most vulnerable SIDS to identify their most urgent
adaptation needs. There are a multitude of possible adaptation
options for SIDS which include engineering solutions such as
hurricane resistant buildings, the provision of water storage;
legislative solutions such as revised building codes, land zoning
around coasts and rivers and updating water policy; and technological
solutions such as using more resilient crops.
However, in spite of the wide range of adaptation options that
could be successfully implemented in SIDS, there are constraints
that can limit the choices of options and their implementation
such as inadequate data and technical capacity, weak human
and institutional capacity and limited financial resources. Maladaptation,
caused by governments underestimating, overestimating
or mis-estimating the climate impact are hindering the
adaptation process, since it can be used as a reason for going
through with adaptation options. The insouciance of the local
population through un-civic actions like wantonly destroying
local vegetation or blocking drains through improper disposal
of garbage are not helping the cause.
The economic fallout of a changing climate is already being felt
not just in SIDS but across the world and it is going to be a major
barrier to the achievement of sustainable development goals in
the most vulnerable parts of the world namely in SIDS.
As we live in an interconnected world, the problems in the South
soon spreads out and often out of the control of leaders whose
vision, unfortunately, is tied to their electoral mandates. It is time
to strengthen further our institutions and reinforce them not just
with capital but also with beautiful minds. Institutions remain the
repository of policies and continuity and those countries that
have maintained the independence of their institutions
have come out winning.
Photo: Diplomatic World
Photo: Diplomatic World
Photo: Diplomatic World
20 21

H.E. GÉZA ANDREAS FREIHERR VON GEYR
AMBASSADOR OF
THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY
TO THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Dear Readers of Diplomatic World,
It is my pleasure to introduce you to the
“Year of Germany in Russia 2020/2021”
Since late September last year, we have been presenting
Germany in Russia in many special ways. Already by the end of
2020, over 500 events have taken place. About another 1,000
will follow. This major and very comprehensive project took off
under the highly exceptional circumstances of the pandemic and,
thus, we had to combine virtual, hybrid and in-person events.
And since the “Year of Germany in Russia” is also taking place
amidst a political atmosphere characterized by many challenges,
it is gaining even more importance. Talking about challenges, I do
not only refer to the various differences our countries face at the
moment, but also to global issues that are important for everyone’s
future – such as dealing with climate change, pandemics
or global crises; only if we work together across borders and
continents will it be possible to meet these challenges.
Artwork “Fragment of the Berlin Wall - End of the division of Germany and Europe in 1990” in the MUZEON sculpture park. It was initiated
and commissioned by the German Embassy as part of the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union and on the
30 th anniversary of German unity. The work of art “Fragment of the Berlin Wall - End of the Division of Germany and Europe in 1990”
by Russian artist Tatyana Ludanik represents a piece of the Berlin Wall, a symbol and synonym for the German and European division
during - the Cold War.
© Goethe-Institut / Vyacheslav Zamyslov
So how can we make sure that we use our “Year of Germany” to
send the right messages? What image of Germany do we want
to convey? And, even more importantly, what exactly do we
want to achieve for the cooperation between our countries and
people?
If we look at the difficult history our countries share – not least
this year that marks the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s invasion
of the Soviet Union - as well as at our future as neighbours
in Europe, we see many good reasons for striving towards dialogue
and encounters, towards knowledge and exchange, essentially
towards a mutual understanding of the people. From this
mutual understanding, we should see the development of good,
open-minded and respectful togetherness. This togetherness is
indispensable for our globalized and interconnected world.
business, science and culture draw their energy, the different fora
in which stakeholders present and compete for their convictions,
and the often difficult struggle for the best compromise solution.
In short, more than ever before, it is the diversity that characterizes
today’s Germany. It is essentially the diversity of positions
and ideas, the tolerant debate of these ideas and a willingness to
engage in dialogue across borders.
H.E. Géza Andreas Freiherr von Geyr Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Russian Federation
To reach such a togetherness we need to present Germany as
it is – with all its facets and all its diversity. We would like to bring
as much as possible of German day-to-day reality to Russia.
We are presenting the quality of German companies, the
achievements of our education system, and the excellence of
German research, as well as wonderful culture. At the same time,
it is no less important to present the underlying foundation for
all of this: the social discourse in Germany from which politics,
Ceremonial opening of the Year of Germany in Russia in the famous Pashkov
House in Moscow Иван ИИИИИ
© Ivan Gushchin
22 23

The installation “Ludwig van Beethoven - Ode to Joy” created by the German artist Ottmar Hörl commemorates
the great composer Ludwig van Beethoven, whose 250th birthday was celebrated worldwide and also in Russia.
The German National Tourist Board sent the approximately one-meter-tall Beethoven figure on a journey through
Russia with the Russian airline Utair - from Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea to Surgut in Siberia and onwards to
Chukotka on the Arctic Circle.
© Andrey Belavin
The Beethoven Line project coincided with Ludwig van Beethoven’s 250th birthday and took place during the opening week of the Year of Germany in Russia. For a week,
Moscow musicians performed Beethoven’s works in the lobby of the MZK station “Nizhegorodskaya” in an unexpected interpretation: in the style of musical genres that had
not yet existed at the time of Beethoven.
© Yulia Kulintchik
This is how we want to make ourselves tangible in the “Year of
Germany in Russia”. We are seeking dialogue – be it through
large-scale, renowned projects or through smaller events. Our
intent is to reach people all across Russia – from the Baltic
Sea to the Pacific Ocean.
Let me give you some examples to illustrate our efforts.
Last October, as we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the
German Reunification, it took us a long time to decide how
exactly – in addition to the presentation of documents and
discussions – we could convey to the people in Russia just how
we Germans felt when the Wall fell. We decided to ask a young
Russian artist to create a dedicated work of art, to be installed at
a prominent location, for everyone to see and also to feel what
we felt.
This artist, Ms Tatjana Ludanik, is known for her spectacular installations
and performances – and she turned the idea into a big
and unique piece of art. Her fragment of the Berlin Wall, which
we were able to display in Moscow’s Gorky Park for a month,
artistically combines a look back into the past with a look forward
into the future. It makes the Wall tangible as something cold,
something meant to separate people for power-political reasons,
something that caused terrible pain to so many people as it
divided my country, and Europe. At the same time, the artwork
offers room to exhibit a variety of impressions of the multifaceted
German-Sowjet and German-Russian relations. It reflects
the awareness that 30 years ago without the Kremlin neither the
peaceful fall of the Wall nor the reunification of Germany would
have been possible. The huge crack in the wall reflects that courageous
people overcame the Wall - a moment of indescribable
happiness for our country: it was possible to look through the
Wall, to walk through the Wall, and thus to build a new common
future.
This piece of art is a symbol for Europe’s difficult history in
the 20th century, with all its highs and lows – of our common
European history, of which Russia is part. It also represents the
human desire for freedom, which proved to be stronger than
walls or barbed wire. The exhibit was an overwhelming success.
People spoke about it, took photos, the press commented on
it, including words of warning to never again let new walls be
erected – neither in people’s minds nor in reality. It truly helped
countless Russians better understand Germany.
Another example: to mark Ludwig van Beethoven’s 250th birthday,
the German sculptor Otmar Hörl created golden and green
sculptures of the great composer. These sculptures have one
ingenious difference compared to Beethoven´s traditional depictions:
Otmar Hörl’s Beethovens are smiling.
The German National Tourist Board engaged the Russian airline
Utair to take these sculptures on a tour around Russia: from
Kaliningrad by the Baltic Sea over Surgut in Siberia to the
Chukchi Peninsula at the Polar circle in the Far East these
statues have become a popular photo motif and have triggered
positive emotions everywhere. The smiling Beethoven surprises;
he inspires you to stop and think about how music, a gesture,
a smile, can bring people and nations closer together –without a
single word.
Bloggers, who accompanied the sculptures, were able to reach
tens of thousands of followers in the very first hours. And the
positive feedback is increasing steadily. Naturally, the “Year of
Germany” is also offering opportunities to enjoy Beethoven’s
wonderful music – be it large-scale concerts with outstanding
German and Russian musicians, also made accessible to a wider
audience via the digital media, or live concerts performed by a
Big Band of young Russian musicians for the passengers of the
Moscow Metro. All these events make it possible for Russians to
encounter Germany in a very special way.
A third example: with the “Dreams of Freedom. Romanticism
in Germany and in Russia” exhibition, the Dresden State Art
Collections are bringing world-famous paintings to Moscow.
They are displayed alongside works from important Russian
collections. This exhibition is dedicated to an era, in which
artists – both in Germany and in Russia – were seeking answers
and reacted to their shrinking space of individual liberties. When
placed next to each other - for the first time in history -, these
works of art reveal astonishing parallels in their perspectives and
their Zeitgeist. When viewed next to each other, some of those
paintings by German and Russian artists appear to stem from
one and the same art studio, as opposed to having actually been
created thousands of kilometers apart from each other.
The mental and spiritual proximity across borders in the striving
for freedom is emphasized by the exhibition’s unique architecture
by Daniel Libeskind. From Moscow, this whole exhibition will
then travel to Dresden, thus serving as a powerful example of
successful cultural dialogue and exchange, and, undoubtedly,
will become a highlight of our “Year of Germany”. There are two
other major exhibitions worth mentioning, which also prove the
European nature of our cultural ties: One of them is an exhibition
dedicated to the Iron Age, which, fittingly, carries the words
“Europe without borders” in its title. The other is a contemporary
art exhibition entitled “Diversity United”, which presents works
by 90 renowned artists from 34 European countries, including
Germany and Russia. This exhibition will be displayed first in
Berlin, then in Moscow, and will subsequently travel to Paris.
Hence, encounters with Germany are at the same time encounters
with Europe.
In addition to these large-scale events, the agenda of the “Year of
Germany” is full of various smaller, but no less important, events
all over the vast Russian country. These include vocational training
conferences, workshops on environmental protection and a
sustainable economy, meetings of twin towns’ representatives,
24 25

Award of the winners of the all-Russian quiz about Germany and the German
language
© Goethe-Institut / Vyacheslav Zamyslov
“German Days” in the Kemerovo-Kuzbass administrative region © Sergey Karadko
H.E. Géza Andreas von Geyr Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to
the Russian Federation and Nicole Baroness von Vietinghoff-Scheel, Residence of
the German Embassy in Moscow © German Embassy Moscow / Nikita Markov
On October 1, 2020, the Embassy, ​together with the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung,
the Hanns-Seidel-Stiftung, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung and the Institute for
General History of the Russian Academy of Sciences organized a discussion
forum “Landmarks in German-Soviet relations”. © German Embassy Moscow /
Nikita Markov
Carl Wilhelm Götzloff Grotto near Amalfi, around 1828
© Albertinum | Galerie Neue Meister, Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden. Photo: Hans-Peter Klut
readings in libraries, lectures at universities, historical symposia,
various sports events, themed film festivals, regional and local
German Weeks, exhibitions and fairs with the participation of
German businesses active in Russia, and so the list goes on.
Using virtual formats has helped us achieve a truly amazing
reach: for example, one of the online German language lessons
by the Goethe-Institut had over 10,000 participants from 11 time
zones. The video of a Christmas concert has been viewed so
often it is hard to keep count. And our virtual “Germany train”
will travel from Vladivostok to Russia’s west, combining virtual
encounters with Germany with real-life events.
Such an abundance and variety of events requires many people
to join hands and work together. The “Year of Germany” is a joint
effort, steered by the German Embassy in Moscow, the Moscow
Goethe-Institut and the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce
and involving numerous other German partners, such as the
German Consulates General in Russia, cultural and scientific institutions,
political foundations, educational institutions, and German
Länder (federal states) and municipalities, but also many German
companies, often actively supported by their Russian partners.
The Russian Government, which recently organised a major
“Saison Russe” in Germany, is also supporting us. For that I am
very grateful.
When thinking strategically about our future, we must be united
by one common goal: to establish and maintain a good, reliable
and respectful togetherness. This is what both our history and
our geography, as well as the major global challenges demand of
us. The very fact that so many people in Russia are participating
with their hearts and souls in our “Year of Germany”, showing
great interest in what we Germans consider to be dear to our
hearts and at the core of our country, is in itself proof that we are
on the right track in offering opportunities for encounters with
Germany.
I INVITE YOU TO TAKE PART AND ENCOUNTER
THE “YEAR OF GERMANY IN RUSSIA 2020/2021”
ON YOUR OWN UNDER THIS LINK:
WWW.DEUTSCHLANDJAHR.RU
YOU ARE TRULY WELCOME!
Silvester Feodosiyevich Shchedrin, Grotta di Matromania on the Island of Capri, 1827. State Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow
Photo: State Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow
26 27

have been integrated into the Sub-National Governments’ periodic
plans with effective monitoring and evaluation guidelines.
H.E. GAHENDRA RAJBHANDARI
AMBASSADOR OF NEPAL TO THE EUROPEAN
UNION, THE KINGDOM OF BELGIUM,
THE KINGDOM OF NETHERLANDS AND
THE GRAND DUCHY OF LUXEMBOURG
WELCOME TO BRUSSELS, EXCELLENCY!
COULD YOU GIVE US YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS
ABOUT YOUR STAY IN BRUSSELS AND
BROADLY OUTLINE THE PRIORITIES YOU WILL
PURSUE DURING YOUR TENURE HERE?
It is my privilege to be appointed as the Ambassador of Nepal
to the European Union and the Benelux countries. Nepal enjoys
excellent relations with the EU, Belgium, Netherlands and
Luxembourg.
During my tenure in Brussels, my priorities will be as follows:
• Strengthen and take relations to greater heights; working for
more productive and meaningful engagement at all levels;
• Frequent exchange of high-level visits, sanitary conditions
permitting;
• The start of direct flights between Nepal and Europe
• Promote people-to-people contacts;
• Promote bilateral trade;
• Promote investment to Nepal;
• Technology transfer;
• Sharing the best knowledge of the Belgian agriculture sector.
The ongoing pandemic has caused a colossal damage everywhere
disrupting our lives, livelihoods and economies. It has
hit every sector of the Nepalese economy, such as remittance
inflows, the tourism industry and international trade.
It has also hugely impacted Nepal’s hard-earned development
gains, including achievement of the Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs), to which Nepal attaches great importance. Nepal
has developed the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) status and roadmap 2016–2030, SDGs needs assessment,
costing and financing strategy, and SDGs localization
guidelines that spell out baselines, targets and implementation
and financing strategies for each indicator. Furthermore, SDGs
Coming back to the pandemic, as our Rt. Hon. Prime Minister K
P Sharma Oli has stated: “The world is a small boat, we are all its
passengers. We like it or not, we share the same fate”. In our approach
to the pandemic, we are being guided by three principles:
strengthening the health-care system; protecting people’s lives
and livelihoods and building a sustainable and resilient recovery.
Testing and treatment services are provided free of charge to the
needy people. Necessary infrastructures, human and financial
resources, and medical equipment are ensured to the health
systems at the federal, provincial and local levels.
In April, the Government of Nepal imposed a lockdown again to
break the chain of the high number of people infected and minimise
the fatalities. Containment measures are being implemented
to keep the spread of the virus under control. Nepal places top
priority to protect people’s lives from disease and hunger. To this
end, we have initiated the necessary policies and programmes
to provide budgetary relief, incentives and stimulus packages to
the affected people and sectors. We need to ensure easy and
affordable access to vaccines and other essential medical items
to check the virus and gradually return to normalcy.
A UNITED NATIONS COMMITTEE HAS RECOM-
MENDED NEPAL’S GRADUATION FROM THE
STATUS OF A LEAST DEVELOPED COUNTRY INTO
A DEVELOPING ONE AFTER 2026. WHAT IS THE
SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPLICATIONS OF THIS NEXT
STAGE IN THE COUNTRY’S DEVELOPMENT?
Nepal’s graduation from least developed country status is an
important milestone as chartered by our Prime Minister for
Nepal’s development trajectory towards the national ambition of
“Prosperous Nepal: Happy Nepali”. The United Nations Committee
for Development Policy (CDP), in its triennial review held from
22 to 26 February 2021, has recommended Nepal’s graduation,
as Nepal has met the criteria for three consecutive reviews. Out
of the three indices which the CDP considers while deciding on
the question of graduation – GNI per capita; Human Assets Index
and Economic and Environmental Vulnerability Index – Nepal met
the thresholds for the latter two, thus being eligible for graduation.
Due to the extraordinary challenges posed by the COVID-19
pandemic and based on the request of the Government of Nepal,
the normal preparatory period of three years has been extended
to five, to provide adequate time for a smooth transition during
which Nepal would be enabling itself to offset the loss of support
measures exclusive to the LDCs.
THE ONGOING COVID-19 PANDEMIC CONTINUES
TO HAVE FAR-REACHING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC
AND HUMAN IMPACTS ACROSS THE WORLD.
WHAT STEPS IS NEPAL TAKING TO ENSURE
A SUSTAINABLE, RESILIENT AND INCLUSIVE
RECOVERY?
28 29

Therefore, we are planning to have a coherent and comprehen-
Nepal strongly supports the Paris Agreement and the call to limit
Concerning the upcoming COP26 Summit in Glasgow, Nepal
We are urging the world to recognise the ecological value of the
sive transition strategy in cooperation with development partners
global warning to 1.5 degrees. Last year in December, our Prime
as a Least Developed Country (LDC) has a high stake in the
Himalayas.
to go to the right direction. For example, we are more focused
Minister Rt. Hon. K P Sharma Oli addressed the Climate Ambi-
outcome of the UNFCCC negotiation process. The Government
on assisting exporters to become competitive through improved
connectivity, enterprise development, trade facilitation, Foreign
Direct Investment (FDI) and improved transport transit facility.
NEPAL IS ONE OF THE MOST VULNERABLE COUN-
TRIES TO CLIMATE CHANGE, WITH INCREASED
EVENTS OF FLASH FLOODS, GLACIAL OUT-
BURSTS, DROUGHTS, LANDSLIDES IN RECENT
YEARS. CLIMATE CHANGE CAN DERAIL DEVEL-
OPMENT EFFORTS AND PEOPLE’S LIVELIHOODS.
WHAT ARE NEPAL’S PRIORITIES IN THE CRITICAL
UNITED NATIONS CLIMATE CHANGE CONFER-
ENCE (COP26) TO BE HELD IN GLASGOW COMING
NOVEMBER? MORE GENERALLY, WHAT POLICIES
IS NEPAL PURSUING TO INCREASE CLIMATE
RESILIENCE AND ADAPTATION?
tion Summit to mark the 5th anniversary of the Paris Agreement
and outlined the roadmap for Nepal’s ambition towards a net
zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Nepal has also, in the
meantime, submitted in December 2020 its updated, more ambitious
and progressive Nationally Determined Contribution.
We are committed to the promotion of climate-resilient development
and aim to move towards a zero-carbon economy. To
promote green growth and green recovery, we prioritize producing
clean and renewable energy, promoting e-mobility, low
carbon infrastructure and ecotourism. By 2030, Nepal aims to
maintain 45 percent of the country’s land under forest cover and
aims to extend protected area from 23 to 30 percent to preserve
biodiversity. Also by 2030, we aim to ensure that 15% of the total
energy demand is supplied from clean energy sources.
Nepal is committed to developing a national adaptation plan and
corresponding climate finance strategy and roadmap by 2021.
of Nepal has been actively participating in the COP negotiation
process and communicating to the world about challenges
posed by climate change.
The Government of Nepal has identified four key areas of engagement
as a part of effective participation in COP 26. They are:
• Showcasing Nepal’s Climate Change Agenda in COP26.
• Enhancing partnership and dialogues leaving no one
behind: youth, women, private sector, indigenous
communities, local government all have a key role to play
to enhance partnerships and dialogues.
• Defining and strengthening Nepal’s position for COP26. Some
of the proposed themes of concern to Nepal include loss and
damage; climate financing; adaptation; mitigation; means of
implementation and enhanced transparency framework.
• Ensuring strong representation in the UNFCCC COP 26
negotiation process.
BILATERAL RELATIONS BETWEEN NEPAL AND
BELGIUM HAVE BECOME QUALITATIVELY AND
QUANTITATIVELY MORE SIGNIFICANT IN RECENT
YEARS. WHAT AREAS OF UNTAPPED POTENTIAL
STILL EXIST TO BRING THESE RELATIONS TO NEW
HEIGHTS?
Nepal and Belgium established diplomatic relations on 19 August
1963. Nepal opened its residential Embassy in Brussels in 1992.
Nepal and Belgium established a Bilateral Consultation Mechanism
between their foreign ministries in 2018. The first meeting
of the Nepal-Belgium Bilateral Consultation Mechanism was held
in Kathmandu a year later. Foreign Secretary Mr. Shanker Das
Bairagi and Director General for Bilateral Affairs of the Federal
Public Service, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development
Cooperation of the Kingdom of Belgium Ms. Anick Van Calster
led their respective delegations to the meeting.
Nepal is disproportionately affected by climate change, due to
Easy and adequate access to climate finance becomes critical
Let me conclude by saying that Nepal’s mountains (the rooftop
During the meeting, the two sides took stock of all aspects of bi-
the country’s fragile topography, climate-sensitive livelihoods of
for us to implement these ambitions. We are also planning to
of the world) are not only a source of fresh water for millions of
lateral relations and exchanged views on further promoting coop-
the people – we are bearing the brunt of it while being one of the
introduce climate resilient adaptation plans in all 753 local levels
people; but also serve as climate stabiliser and help maintain
eration between the two countries. Views were also exchanged
least emitters.
by 2030.
ecological balance in the oceans and control global warming.
on the importance of exploring high level visits and engaging in
30 31

global issues such as climate change. The two sides discussed
the various ways of enhancing cooperation in the areas of trade,
tourism and investment and promoting people-to-people contacts.
The regional and international issues of mutual interests
were also discussed during the meeting.
Furthermore, Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid visited Nepal
in 2020 and had productive meetings with the President of
Nepal as well as other important ministers. Princess Astrid, the
Honorary President of Damien Action, a medical development
NGO that fights for a world without leprosy, tuberculosis and
other infectious diseases, visited the projects set up by the NGO
and expressed her support for the noble works. The Royal visit,
which took place after a long gap, bears significance and has
contributed to the overall bilateral relations.
Tourism undoubtedly is the hardest-hit sector by this pandemic.
In 2019, contribution of travel and tourism to GDP for Nepal was
7.9 %. Nepal has been executing safety, health and sanitation
protocols in all tourism related activities supported by awareness
programmes for citizens. Our focus is to save jobs and keep
the economy afloat and revive the travel and hospitality industry
following the new set of norms and health protocols. Earlier in
2021, Nepal had given permission to the expedition teams to the
Everest but unfortunately, we have returned again to a lockdown.
I am convinced that Nepal will remain a very valuable tourism
brand offering a unique travel experience with mountains, wildlife
and culture being the main draws.
Photos: Embassy of Nepal
THE YEAR 2020 WAS DESIGNED AS THE YEAR
OF TOURISM IN NEPAL, AIMING TO BRING
2 MILLION TOURISTS TO THE COUNTRY.
HOWEVER, THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
BROUGHT TOURISM TO A STANDSTILL
WORLDWIDE. WHAT PLANS DOES NEPAL
HAVE IN PLACE TO RE-STARTTHE TOURISM
INDUSTRY IN A SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE WAY?
Photo Shutterstock
32

SHEIKHA
HEND BINT FAISAL AL QASSEMI
WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUSTAINABLE
INVESTMENT, IN BRIEF?
giving Zakat/charity, which amounts to no less than 2% of one’s
income. There is also the notion that giving should be discreet
in order for it to genuine, so it is more common for individuals to
Sustainability has become a trending terminology, while relatively
give charity without announcing it.
a newly adopted futuristic way of thinking. I learned the concept
early on at a very young age from my grandmother. Sustainability
Another form of giving is by asking around neighbours and
as a word was synonymous to how we should always give but in
friends whom often share information about families or in-
a way that would last. I grew up with the conviction that helping
dividuals struggling. This stems from the common religious
the less privileged, was not through giving away what I had in my
interpretation that “the ones closest to you are the ones charity
hand, but through allowing them a tool, degree or experience to
should start with” or the “charity begins at home” philosophy.
elevate themselves from poverty to independence. So, the mean-
Philanthropic endowments, private foundations and foundations
ing of sustainability correlates to continuity, and assisting others
headed by the leaders of our state, such as the Sharjah Charity,
to inevitably help themselves. As for investment in sustainability,
Red Cresent, Al-Jalila Foundation, Zayed foundation for char-
I see it as the continuity of responsible ethical investing that will
ity and humanitarian works, and Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan
yield returns while mutually benefiting the ones in dire need of
foundation.
financial stability.
Women and men alike that want to give back can also tap into
DO YOU HAVE SUGGESTIONS TO ENCOURAGE
YOUR STUDENTS TO PURSUE SUSTAINABILITY
IN BUSINESS OR AS AN ENTREPRENEUR?
a large conglomerate of charities available in humanitarian cities
built in the Emirates. We pride ourselves in the UAE to have
the largest humanitarian city in the world embracing over 80
global and local non-profit organizations, officially known as the
International Humanitarian City. It was established in 2003 by His
I teach a class on Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the
Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. I was born
American University of Dubai. I train my students to focus global-
into the era where institutionalized philanthropy was set in stone
ly their entrepreneurial skills, an experiment of making a success-
in my birth city, and as a result the Sharjah City for Humanitarian
ful profitable business at the refugee camps. My entire class has
since developed projects that are focused on the creation of job
Services was founded in 1979 with the aim of developing social
services for Arab families. Later in 1995 His Highness Sheikh
Sheikha Hend bint Faisal Al Qassemi
opportunities for them. Telemedicine cubicles, waste manage-
Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi, declared this organization was dedicated
ment to sell or to be used for agriculture, YouTube channels to
to serving people with disabilities.
hours in exchange for helping charitable causes, such as visiting
causes by creating an internal staff-based committee that can
educate the less fortunate in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and an
local orphanages and children at hospitals.
make informed decisions on how to sustain such philanthropic
entertainment park in Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya. I am
most proud of my students for moving from the imagination and
planning phase to the realization of their dream by reaching out
persistently to decision makers to make these projects a reality
on the ground. Wherever this takes them, I believe in the concept
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR CORPORATIONS
AND FAMILY BUSINESSES TO ADVANCE THEIR
PHILANTHROPIC INITIATIVES?
Locally in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), family businesses
have superseded neighboring countries’ charitable causes
significantly, estimated at around US$ 7 billion in philanthropic
capital per annum among only 100 businesses. While the
initiatives and ensure that their projects have been measured
against the projected outcome desired. In essence, it is imperative
that corporations ensure the giving has achieved its goals
without blindly investing into non-profits, removed of having a
hands-on approach in its implementation.
of planting seeds and watching the tree grow.
People innately have an intuitive feeling of not wanting to see
practice of giving is both ingrained in the psyche of the Arab
others suffer from the lack of physiological and safety needs.
community through the religious mandated charitable Zakat, the
Furthermore, philanthropic corporations would greatly benefit by
TELL US MORE ABOUT THE PHILANTHROPY IN
THE MENA REGION AND THE CULTURE OF GIVING
AMONG COMMUNITIES?
This is therefore driven to give back to their communities and to
the ones they know need support. While charity starts at home,
and a person’s office is their second home away from home, with
that the realization corporations have been incorporating philanthropy
to further satisfy the needs of their staff.
other reason for involving staff in philanthropic initiatives has led
corporations to streamline this act as a part of their structures.
I believe that short vs long-term strategies is not the main issue
when it comes to philanthropic initiatives as much as it is the
impact-driven outcome and unlocking the full potential of philan-
uniting in creating a joint fund with other corporations, mobilized
by their joint manpower to work on development and charitable
projects targeted at specific beneficiaries, through the creation of
sustainable projects that create jobs to further increase the GDP
of the economy of the host state, further creating a long-term
The MENA (Middle East North Africa) region is the epicentre for
thropic activities of the philanthropic corporations.
impact for those in need, that will in turn create a ripple effect,
philanthropy in its many forms, both through organized registered
It has become more common for corporations to carve out a giv-
giving beneficiaries the power to empower members of their
charities and by giving individually to the ones in need. Culturally,
ing philanthropic initiative for its staff to take part of, such as gift
What could be improved in order to create a long-term impact
community.
Arabs are nurtured to give through the religious indoctrination of
packaging for labourers in labour camps, or volunteering working
is institutionalizing this commitment for the larger good of social
34 35

CC FORUM Empowering Women in the Economy, Sharing Experience, Prospects and Opportunities: H.H. Sheikha Hend Al-Qassemi received the Peace Dove
HOW CAN WOMEN BE EMPOWERED TO REALISE
THEIR FULL POTENTIAL IN CONTRIBUTING TO
THE ECONOMY AND SOCIETY?
giving everyone a chance. I believe in the power of the woman
- that felt the pain of rejection, pregnancy or was unappreciated -
that when she does a job, she outdoes her fellow colleagues.
Women empowerment has become widespread as both a
concern and change movement for the past few decades. As
a result, organizations, conferences, and non-profit initiatives
have further given traction to this cause, that is indeed worth
the awareness and action taken towards its improvement. I’m
a believer that the root causation of every problem is the most
effective way to arrive at a solution. While women globally have
made strides in the achievement of taking up 40% of the global
workforce, what was far off from even an imagination in the past,
women still face problems such as sexual harassment at work,
unequal pay, and the traditional glass ceiling, to only name a few.
I see a significant shift in this paradigm is for women to take
this knowledge and incorporate it in the most vital years of their
children’s education. Adulthood came before childhood, and
men were once boys, therefore feeding them the knowledge that
girls have a beautiful mind and heart, just as much as they are
beautiful outwards, and that they can give the gift of empowerment
to society. Similarly, instilling the confidence in our little girls
and self-belief that they can be engineers, doctors, artists, care
givers, or whatever they find passion in should be ingrained in
the minds of our little ones. Such values should be a formal daily
educational routine.
This does not however take away from the need for intervention
from individuals, governments, and key players actively voicing
their opposition to this existing issue. I act upon and promote
ON A LIGHTER NOTE, WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES,
HOW DID YOU GET INTO THEM?
I was creative as a child and enjoyed using my hands and imagination.
This urge has led me to explore a number of hobbies
that I have turned into projects. I have always liked to connect to
people from all walks of life, listening to their stories attentively
and owing to my love of writing.
I took this passion by combining it with my love for helping people
heal from their tragedies, by writing their stories. Since I have
a background in psychology and therapeutic healing, I know
that when I write the stories of pain narrated from the ones that
have experienced it, it alleviates the burden of carrying their inner
turmoil. This led me to author The Black Book of Arabia, which
has become an international best seller, and I give all credit back
to the emotions and experiences of the ones they belong to.
I immensely enjoy gardening, music in its many genres, frequenting
the theatrical stages, and traveling. I also have passion
for creating beautiful art pieces, I spend much time in the wee
hours of the morning painting and drawing. I have displayed
my art pieces at my newly launched art space and restaurant in
Downtown Dubai. I also enjoy knitting, embroidery and crochet.
Over the weekend I ride horses and when I travel I enjoy riding
them too.
36

THE AL QASIMI IS AN ARAB DYNASTY IN THE
PERSIAN GULF THAT RULES EMIRATE OF
SHARJAH, TODAY FORMING TWO OF THE SEVEN
EMIRATES OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES.
THEY ARE ONE OF THE LONGEST REIGNING
ROYAL FAMILIES IN THE ARABIAN PENINSULA
AND THE OLDEST RULING HOUSE IN THE UAE.
Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Member of the Ruling
Family - Sharjah is the son of Sheikh Mohamed Khalid Al Qasimi,
who is the cousin of the Ruler of Sharjah. He began his career
with Sharjah Economic Department.
SHEIKH
SAQER BIN MOHAMED AL QASIMI
He is actively growing in different sectors, presently he is
focussing on the development of the economy and strengthen
international relationships by bringing them to UAE.
His goal is to make the UAE a better place for investors wishing
to invest globally or locally and successfully and launch their
business in the UAE and GCC region.
Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi’s educational and business
background added to his experience in international business
means that he is made up of a perfect pedigree to be able
to lead investments to the next level and beyond.
Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi
TELL US ABOUT THE METAMORPHOSIS THAT
THE UAE HAS UNDERGONE SUCH AS SECURING
A SEAT IN THE GLOBAL STAGE AS A FINANCIAL,
BUSINESS, EDUCATION AND INNOVATION HUB.
UAE is a multi-cultural hub with more than 260 nationalities
gathering peacefully and in harmony and accord. UAE holds
many world records and has become a place of business opportunities,
promoting women’s rights, education and recently
aerospace. This arena for development in the global arena allows
for innovations and entrepreneurs to grow their creativity under
an evolving landscape.
THE MARKET IN UAE IS ALWAYS CHANGING FAST.
WHAT ARE THE MOST PROMISING VENTURES
AND IN WHICH SECTORS ARE BUILDING
MOMENTUM AT THE MOMENT?
We see a steady growth in Artificial Intelligence, innovations, aerospace,
generation growth, education, international investments,
sustainability, climate change initiatives. Furthermore, men and
women equal face equal opportunities, prominent positions are
filled equally by male and female across all activities and industries
at Government and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs)
levels.
ADNAN AL NOORANI
Chairman of the Board
of The Private Office of
Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi
welcome our teams input and recommendations. We obviously
screen and fully research any future projects.
WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE TO BUDDING
ENTREPRENEURS?
In 2 words, Hope and Courage. It takes Courage to convert
failure to Success. It takes Courage to build a healthy successful
business. It takes Courage to help someone in need and to bring
about humanitarian aspects to business and normal life.
Stick by Hope, and convert it to Achievement. Hope drives
Courage and Courage builds Hope. Hope in our fellow man,
Hope can bring about the will to go forward bravely.
UAE is in the top 10 Countries for Safety & Security. We work
continuously to make it No. 1, which we are confident it will
reach due to our Country’s Leaders visions and missions. UAE
is top of the list too for the Worlds environmentally friendly drive,
sustainability and transactional speed in all business lines. Our
paperless drive in Government transactions is continuously
evolving, and Artificial Intelligence is implemented to afford this.
HOW DO YOU ASSESS WHEN A PROJECT OR
INVESTMENT PROPOSAL IS PROSPEROUS?
In our Private Office we have a team of Leaders and so everyone
involved contributes to decision making. Sheikh Saqer and I
Adnan Al Noorani, The Chairman of the Board of The Private Office of Sheikh
Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi
38 39

Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi opens his door to his
private office and group of companies to entrepreneurs and
businessmen, ideas and business ventures. We encourage and
support such businesses and are always open to innovations and
businesses that bring about mutual benefits not only for us but
the long term for the UAE and its population. we provide support
as well as crucial resources and welcome collaboration.
UAE CONVERTED SANDS INTO CIVILIZATION
ADNAN AL NOORANI
TELL US ABOUT THE IMPORTANT MESSAGE THAT
YOU DELIVER THAT NEEDS TO BE INSTILLED
WITH YOUR LISTENERS?
A phrase I use as a motivation that I have created is “Who can
evaluate a family can easily evaluate being successful in life and
business”. Also: “The most valuable and precious in this life and
the business World are two traits: Reputation and Loyalty”. A
great person should always be humble and hospitable regardless.
HOW DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF THE UAE?
UAE is going to be number 1 to not only service UAE Nationals
but to serve all the nations present in the UAE: “When a Leader
takes care of his people, people will take care of the Leaders, the
Leaders in turn will take care of future leaders”.
Our famous and beloved Leader and Father of the UAE, Sheikh
Zayed once said “Future generations will be living in a World
that is very different from that to which we are accustomed. It
is essential that we prepare ourselves and our children for that
new world”. “The real asset of any advanced nation is its people,
especially the educated ones, and the prosperity and success of
the people are measure by the standard of their education.”
Adnan Al Noorani, Chairman of the Board of The Private Office
of Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, a visionary leader who
sees the potential for how the world should exist and then takes
steps to get there, who has over 17 years’ experience in the
market. He has been working across the Royal Families of UAE,
is well-connected throughout the governmental agencies and
Royal Families. He also guides and advises the clients towards
successful avenues to grow in the UAE and abroad. His primary
expertise is Government market, UAE Law, Finance and GCC
Business. He is recognized for his humanitarian works and he
invests sheer amount of faith in the goodwill of the community.
Led by his leadership, The Private Office of Sheikh Saqer Bin
Mohamed Al Qasimi, has created a better place for investors
seeking to invest in GCC and continues his journey to establish
more global connections and to create a safe haven for business.
His one and only goal is to build a healthy, strong future business
generation and build a healthy economic environment.
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TELL US ABOUT YOUR GOALS IN TERMS OF
NECESSARY TOPICS THAT NEED TO BE
ADDRESSED ON A PERSONAL LEVEL SUCH
AS FAMILY, SUCCESS ETC?
Money cannot buy happiness, money cannot buy family, money
cannot buy reputation, money cannot buy the future, money cannot
buy success. We can build our own happiness with our own
two hands, hard work and dedication. The successful person
always utilizes four principles: Reputation, Loyalty, Honesty and
Long-term relationships. These are four principles to live by as
they go hand in hand.
Barbara Dietrich, Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi and Adnan Al Noorani
40 41

QAIS AL SUWAIDI
DIRECTOR OF THE CLIMATE
CHANGE DEPARTMENT AT MOCCAE,
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES MINISTRY
OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT
The COVID-19 outbreak has been a wake-up call for all of us,
making us realize that to ensure the continuity of life on Earth, we
must live in harmony with our environment. The greatest health
crisis of our time has driven home the importance of integrating
the environmental dimension of sustainable development into
our post-pandemic recovery plans with the aim of equipping our
world with the tools to respond to climate risks. The coronavirus
should not slow down our shift towards a resilient and inclusive
green economy. Instead, it can catalyse the transition.
The UAE is a keen adopter of this approach. Despite the challenging
times, our country has remained steadfast in its dedication
to building back better. In addition to our decisive response
to the pandemic, we have launched our historic mission to Mars,
started operating the first nuclear power plant in the Arab world,
and restructured our cabinet to streamline governance and
decision making.
CC Forum Middle East Highlights that
the COVID-19 pandemic should not slow down
our shift towards a resilient and inclusive green economy
In the midst of the recovery efforts, we have strengthened our
commitment to climate action, and proceeded to submit our
enhanced, second Nationally Determined Contribution –
NDC – under the Paris Agreement.
The NDC reflects our climate change mitigation and adaptation
ambitions. Specifically, it highlights our target to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions by 23.5 percent compared to business as
usual for the year 2030. By then, we aim to expand our clean energy
capacity to 14 GW, rising from just above 100 MW in 2015.
We have also pledged to plant 30 million mangrove seedlings
by 2030 to conserve our coastal blue carbon ecosystems. Given
our harsh desert climate and scarce water resources, we are
also exploring innovative climate-smart agriculture, and sharing
knowledge and technology with other countries that face similar
challenges.
While our NDC is a major milestone, it is only one step in the
right direction. The move falls within the framework of our national
economic and energy diversification drive, manifested in our
current transition to clean energy.
I’m proud to note that we have recently adopted two landmark
policies – the UAE Environmental Policy that facilitates the
implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, and the
UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031 that seeks to optimize
the use of resources and reduce waste, thus promoting sustainable
production and consumption. The policies complement
our ongoing efforts in the fields of green growth, biodiversity
conservation, and environmental protection.
Governments have the responsibility to spearhead an inclusive
and efficient green recovery. However, the scale of the investment
required is well beyond the capacity of the public sector
alone. Therefore, we have launched the UAE Sustainable Finance
Framework 2021-2031 to step up cooperation between the public
and private sectors, and channel capital towards climate-resilient
and environment-friendly investments.
The framework includes comprehensive actions around three key
pillars: mainstreaming sustainability and climate action in financial
decision-making and risk management, enhancing supply
and demand for sustainable products and green investments,
and creating an enabling environment for sustainable finance.
A major opportunity in this regard is food security – one of our
priority areas for green recovery. The pandemic has highlighted
the need for a stable food supply chain. Despite the climate-related
limitations of our agricultural sector, we are seeing promising
innovation, especially from our young people, who are
passionate about advancing sustainable agriculture through
cutting-edge technologies and novel business models.
With a positive outlook, we will continue to reinforce the role of
the green economy as the cornerstone of COVID-19 recovery,
and we hope that our experience can serve as a source of inspiration
for the world.
We are dedicated to doing our part to achieve the goals of the
Paris Agreement, and joining forces with the rest of the world to
fight climate change. This year, we look forward to the upcoming
COP26 in Glasgow later this year, and to exchanging experience
with other countries in advancing climate action in a post-
COVID-19 world. The event will be the world’s opportunity to
demonstrate leadership and agree on a shared vision for raising
climate ambition in the context of a green recovery.
As countries battle the triple threat – the pandemic, climate
change and economic recession – enormous opportunities
for stronger global cooperation are emerging. We are already
witnessing remarkable endeavours by the world’s scientists
collaborating to develop effective vaccines, countries committing
to ambitious science-based emission reduction target, and
international organizations rallying together to provide technical
assistance and financial aid to the most vulnerable countries.
It is notable that in working to build back better, governments
are being avidly supported by the private sector that has seen
a renewed focus on sustainability. We need to capitalize on
this momentum through establishing enabling regulatory and
financing frameworks, and prioritizing investments in sustainable
projects to empower private sector companies to drive the green
recovery.
As climate impacts mount and our ecosystems come under
increasing pressure, we must double down on our efforts to
protect and support those most at risk. As a responsible and
ambitious nation, the UAE will continue to play an active role in
the international community in sharing knowledge and resources
to help build a resilient post-pandemic future that leaves no
one behind.
42 43

ROUNDTABLE
ON SUSTAINABILITY
FROM THE MALDIVES TO THE WORLD
SUSTAINABILITY
FROM THE MALDIVES TO THE WORLD
WEDNESDAY 9 JUNE 2021
VENUE: BOLIFUSHI - HYBRID - EVENT
As we figure out how our future world will look like, it is important
that we do not lose a sense of perspective, in reference to the
all-important 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which, if
achieved, will provide a prosperous life for everybody, and ensure
the health of our planet. No country can achieve them alone, a
combined effort and international solidarity and teamwork is key.
We need fresh and innovative ideas as we adapt to new circumstances,
and this hybrid roundtable contributed to this, sharing
inputs, ideas and expertise to build a better world, a world we
want to leave behind to our children and grandchildren.
The timing of this event is critical – countries across the world are
busy devising plans for inclusive, sustainable recovery, and later
this year we will have the COP26 Climate Summit in Glasgow.
The SDGs, therefore, are more relevant than ever.
Therefore, the central question becomes how to ensure that all
stakeholders – government, the private sector, business, civil society,
entrepreneurs, youth, academia – join forces. Together, we
need to identify challenges, harmonize efforts, set priorities, align
actions, form coherent policy responses, and mobilise financial
resources for sustainable development.
H.E. DR. AISHATH ALI, MINISTER OF EDUCATION
OF THE MALDIVES
relevant and effective learning environments. In the Maldives,
the universalisation of primary education was achieved in 2002,
nearly two decades ago, with no significant gender disparity. The
completion rate for primary is near a hundred percent. The transition
rate from primary to secondary is almost universal.
In 2020, 98.4 percent of students completed their lower secondary
education. Although the enrolment at the higher secondary
level has increased over time, the net enrolment rate is still low
and the completion rate of higher secondary remains below the
regional benchmark, which is 48.8 percent. And there are concerns
about the quality of school education at the higher levels.
Achieving the indicators of access to equitable and quality education
was given legal imperative with the ratification of the First
Education Act in November 2020, which will become effective in
August 2021. It mandates free, equitable and quality education to
all the students from ages 4 to 16. Furthermore, in the Maldives,
two years of early childhood education have been made compulsory
and available for free in all inhabited islands across the
country.
SDG 4 also calls to ensure equal access for all women and
men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary
education, including university education. The new Education
H.E. AMINATH SHAUNA
Minister of Environment,
Climate Change and Technology
of The Maldives
ARIJIT
BHATTACHARYYA
H.E. PROF AMEENAH
GURIB-FAKIM
6th President of the Republic
of Mauritius
SASHA
LUND
H.E. DR. AISHATH ALI
Minister of Education
of The Maldives
CORNELIA VON WÜLFING
Mamaga Akosua I.
Paramountqueen of SASADU Areas,
Volta Region, Ghana
JEAN FRANÇOIS
DESJACQUES
H.E. ABDULLA MAUSOOM
Minister of Tourism
of The Maldives
MARCO
ALBA
LORENZO DE’ MEDICI
Philanthropist, Artist & Founder of
Medici Bank International
BARBARA
DIETRICH
H.E. HASSAN SOBIR
Ambassador of The Maldives
to Belgium
ALBERTO
TURKSTRA
In 2015, the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
was agreed by the world leaders at the 70th session of
the UN General Assembly. By 2010, The Maldives had already
achieved five out of the eight Millennium Developmental Goals
(MDGs), making the Maldives South Asia’s only MDG+ country.
This was made possible by the high value the Maldives government
places on investing in education, and now offers free
education for all children in the Maldives between the ages of
four and 18. Over the past few years, the Maldives have shown
progress and remarkable improvements in our SDG education
indicators.
SDG 4 is the all-important education goal. The first target under
this goal is to ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable,
and quality primary and secondary education, leading to
H.E. Dr. Aishath Ali, Minister of Education of the Maldives
Act mandates inclusion of technical vocational education in the
mainstream curriculum within the general education system.
Hence, a technical vocational strategy is being developed to
strengthen the mechanism and increase participation.
SDG target 4 aims to substantially increase the number of youth
and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational
skills for employment, decent jobs, entrepreneurship.
The most recent household income and expenditure survey
shows that among youth, 51 percent of both men and women
have used computers and 70 percent have used internet. To this
end, an ICT Master Plan has been developed by the Ministry of
Education targeting 100 percent ICT literacy among students.
While these are steps in the right direction, much work still needs
to be done. Concepts of anti-bullying, democratic values and
gender equality needs to be woven into the fabric of everyday
school experiences and make the curriculum relevant to the
everyday needs of our communities.
In our quest to build and upgrade inclusive, safe learning environment,
all the schools have been provided with electricity, safe
drinking water, and single-sex, basic sanitation facilities. Those
schools have become more inclusive spaces. There are significant
variations across the country and the retention of quality
teachers remain is major issues in higher education system.
To address this teacher shortage, the government aims to raise
the social status of teachers by raising remuneration and expanding
the opportunities for professional development.
44 45

having engagements with all the local councils. We hope that the
not just a matter of environment it also becomes a human rights
increased female presence in local councils, in addition to the
question as well, because if you think about the motives and the
women development committees in each island, will be able to
impacts of climate change it almost feels like the more, this will
really get a meaningful engagement from women to tourism.
be uninhabitable before the sea level rise, which might result in
complete inundation of the island nation as well.
Then of course, tourism in the Maldives is very much environmentally
friendly. It is in the interest of the industry that the en-
We are talking about access to clean water. We are talking about
vironment stays good and the “reduce, reuse, recycle” concept
access to resources and food security. These are issues that
will be implemented throughout the planning, development and
really matters to our existence, our survival. A few weeks ago,
management of all the tourism facilities. Most of the new tourism
President Solih ratified the Climate Emergency Act, which calls
products that we are now announcing carries a very high value
for a framework to work towards achieving net zero emissions
for renewable energy commitment. I think Maldives will stand out
by 2030 with the support of the international community. We no
as a good example of that.
longer want to just be victims of climate change, we also want
We have one specific social problem, where women and men
to be victors. Want to say if a country like the Maldives can do it,
the entire world can do it as well.
H.E. Aminath Shauna, Minister of Environment, Climate Change &
Technology of the Maldives
who work in the resorts live far away from their families. The government’s
focus is on ensuring a greater work-life balance. Most
We hope that larger countries will commit to more ambitious
emissions. We are really determined to show leadership and
of the resorts will have a system of enabling Maldivians who work
targets to bring down global emissions and we reach 1.5 degrees
continue to advocate for more effective and bold climate actions
in these resorts to go back to their family once their duty is done.
in the upcoming climate change negotiations. It is time for us to
to address the climate emergency that we face while the impacts
come together and ensure that we really can make a difference in
of climate change are heightened, especially for vulnerable
Lastly, I should make a reference to climate change. I think
terms of bringing change. If we can really fix the ozone hole, why
island nations, such as ours. No nation is really immune from this
there is mixed debate as to what is happening with the global
can’t we fix what is happening with global climate change and
anymore.
warming. One thing is sure, global warming is really damaging
rising temperatures?
our coral reefs. But as to whether global warming and resulting
All photos: Embassy of Maldives, Diplomatic World,
sea-level rise will let the Maldives go down, I think scientists are
Despite the challenges we face, let us not forget that the
Prof. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Lorenzo De’ Medici,
H.E. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister of Tourism of the Maldives
very optimistic that the Maldives will stay afloat because that is
Maldives contribute only 0.003% of global greenhouse gas
Cornelia von Wülfing
the way our islands are formed.
H.E. ABDULLA MAUSOOM, MINISTER OF TOURISM
OF THE MALDIVES
The Maldives is a sustainable development destination. As we
move towards SDGs, the main focus is on making sure that tour-
H.E. AMINATH SHAUNA, MINISTER OF ENVIRON-
MENT, CLIMATE CHANGE & TECHNOLOGY OF THE
MALDIVES
ism is accessible to everybody.
The COVID-19 pandemic is a global shock like no other and with
far reaching consequences to every aspect of our lives. We must
The government of the Maldives has decided to take tourism to
also not forget that climate change is still an ever-present prob-
the people: tourism will be taken to all the inhabited islands. The
lem for us all. The science is very clear, the evidence is there. The
main idea is to make sure that tourism benefits are given to the
world’s climate system is undergoing an exponential change and
common people and linking tourism to the island economies:
the consequences therefore will also be catastrophic, not just on
fishermen, farmers, craftsmen, performing artists, will all have a
small island states.
role to play in tourism and will benefit directly from it.
Over the past years over 90 percent of the islands have reported
While doing so, we are developing the domestic transport net-
flooding annually and 97 percent of the islands are experiencing
work that will make the living very feasible for the island com-
severe erosion. This is catastrophic as nearly 50 percent of all our
munities: new domestic transport systems are being established
housing structures are also within just a hundred meters from the
through air networks and sea links, and also in bigger islands
shoreline. And it is not just our homes and infrastructure that is in
improved roads will enable good transport.
jeopardy, but all economic wellbeing is also severely threatened.
One major area that we are also focusing is on empowering
Therefore, we really understand the importance of building re-
women, engaging women in tourism. We aim to give ownership
silience while also achieving sustainable development. We have
of tourism products to women, and also have women in employ-
to carry both out in parallel and we do not have much time left,
ment. The Ministry of Tourism is conducting consultations and
unfortunately. And this is why for us addressing climate change is
46 47

H.E. PROF. AMEENAH GURIB-FAKIM
6TH PRESIDENT & FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT
OF THE REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS
As a small island state, Mauritius shares common issues with
the Maldives - in particular climate change. Our countries have
hardly contributed to greenhouse gas emissions, yet we bear the
brunt of global warming.
Furthermore, the Maldives face the existential threat of sea level
rise, and many islands are set to disappear in the not-so-distant
future. We are all already seeing the rise of the waters and
erosion is becoming a serious issue. The other challenges that
we face are warming oceans and the acidification of the oceans
impacting coral reefs.
I started working in South Africa, then Eastern & Western Africa.
Finally, I ended up for business reasons in Ghana in 1998. And
I decided very early on that I should do projects there for the
benefit of the people.
Europeans are often earning much money in African countries,
but many of them do not give anything back. So, it was in my
early African years, during the 1980s, that I decided to give
something back.
CORNELIA VON WÜLFING
MAMAGA AKOSUA I.
PARAMOUNTQUEEN OF SASADU AREAS,
VOLTA REGION, GHANA
All important decisions concerning climate change are taken
In my opinion, it should be an obligation. If you do business in
globally, but actions must be taken at local level. We all have
the country and you are benefiting economically, then you should
something to contribute to the future we want. In terms of inter-
find a way to give back. African countries should oblige the com-
national collaboration, we need to seek North-South exchanges.
panies coming in, that a certain percentage of the profit - apart
We will not be able to drive this from our side, because climate
from the taxes - must go back to the people living there and pos-
change is a global issue which calls for a global solution.
itively impact education and healthcare systems, for example.
concern and also prompt more action and more collaboration at
This is why we need to flag in the multilateral cooperation and
that level.
At the moment, we are doing handicraft and fabric production.
in small-scale projects, which is possible for any community. It is
collaboration and sharing of best practices (for instance in the
We are recycling glass and turning it into bracelets and jewellery
not really a huge investment. And the money goes directly back
blue economy) which is highly important at this stage. I am
In the end, optimism should reign supreme. We have to turn
which we sell in Europe. We recycle garbage and produce energy
into the projects where people are employed.
very pleased that the Maldives will be heading the UN General
around and bend the arc of these challenges to our own benefit
Assembly, and I think they will be able to share some of our
and to make it work for ourselves.
48 49

LORENZO DE’ MEDICI
PHILANTHROPIST, ARTIST &
FOUNDER OF MEDICI BANK INTERNATIONAL
MARCO ALBA
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
FOR DIPLOMATIC WORLD INSTITUTE
The Maldives have been an example to the world for the past 50
years – even with limited resources, we must respect their way
of preserving their environment, they deserve recognition for this.
In the Maldives, there would be no tourism without safeguarding
the natural environment.
I work with different developers around the world that are
building the sustainable cities. And there are issues that people
do not really talk about. We repeatedly speak about renewable
energy, and we speak a lot about solar. But what will happen
in 10, 20, 50 years when all those solar plants age, how do we
recycle them so that they do not become another environmental
problem?
We need to plan not only thinking about today, but having a
longer time-span in mind. It is very fashionable to say that we
need to be green. But we need to think carefully about what ‘being
green’ means, what does ‘green’ give us and how much will
what we do now cost our children’s generation in the future.
There are technologies that are evolving, so the good news is
that innovation is stepping in. There are small-step technologies
and there are big-step technologies. Especially in the energy sector,
there are technologies right now that can be used to lessen
nitrogen pollution and reduce emission of toxic particles. At the
same time, building up more sustainable future energy solutions
that can be solar or hydrogen, to name a few. Further, why not
sometimes solving two problems at the same time? Such as
waste-to-energy solutions: on the one hand waste removal,
which is a big problem for many communities, governments, and
populations; and generate electricity on the other.
I think the good news is that there is plenty of innovation going
on and that we should have a focus on aligning the interests of
the populations, of the policymakers, investors, businessmen, and
to try to find the correct mix in order to be more sustainable on the
long run by applying small steps and working on the big steps.
JEAN-FRANCOIS DESJACQUES
ADVISOR TO UHNWI FAMILIES AND LUXURY
HOSPITALITY EXPERT
What I hear is there is plenty of potential interesting innovation.
Having said that, innovation is one thing, consciousness is another.
While I think that our generation has maybe destroyed the
world, we have a new generation that, in its way of life, through
its behaviour, is more protective of the environment. We see, for
example, less and less people around the world using cars. So,
we have maybe a change to save the planet.
Well, just like Dubai popped up from the sand, why cannot we
have a country popping up from the sea?
There are ways to do it. There are risks of flooding, but there are
maybe technologies to tackle this. Venice, for example, is still
standing today. And the other thing I would like to mention is that
I was in Dubai 30 years ago and I realised that Dubai is a city that
has popped up from the sand. There was nobody but shippers,
sea farers and pearl diggers about 50 years ago. And look at
Dubai today, a hub of innovation and business.
50 51

‘Sustainable development is the pathway for a better
future. Plant a tree if you can, reduce waste and think
green. We are the investors for a better tomorrow. Let us
appreciate nature by giving our time, our dedication and
our love to this beautiful earth.’
‘The contemporary Maldivian society is filled with eclectic
and enthusiastic young people, that do not standby
witness to the destruction of our ecosystem and discrimination
based on gender. We must accommodate and work
with these voices for a truly sustainable future.”
Fathimath Shadiya, Head of Department of Environment
and Natural Science, Maldives National University
Zayan Ismail, member, Uthema (Women’s right NGO)
‘About 30 years ago, at the Rio Earth Summit, world
leaders agreed to apply the precautionary principle, yet the
greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. Today it is a
fact that human induced global warming has placed us in
this climate emergency. Sea levels are rising, and we are at
the brink of completely losing our coral reefs. Every bit of
warming is directly linked to our ability to survive.
We share the same planet with the same atmosphere and
ocean. It is time to work in solidarity, ensuring that no one
is left behind. We have no time to lose’.
‘My main aim in life is to lessen the challenges faced by
people with disabilities by giving them accessibility, to fight
for gender equality and women’s rights. I want to prove to
people that being a blind person, does not stop you from
achieving greatness in life.’
Fathimath Ibrahim, Board Member,
Blind Association of Maldives
Aisha Niyaz, Sustainability Consultant
‘The key aim of the 17 ambitious goals is to leave no one
behind. We could only achieve the true meaning of it by
including the unheard, side-lined and marginalized communities.
It is crucial for the youth to take voices and actions
further and prove that we are not the leaders of the future;
we surely can be the leaders of the present. We are talking
about our future and the future of our children. We are in a
climate crisis, and we have 9 years to achieve these goals,
and we definitely a have lot to do!’
Afa Hussain: Environmental Advocate. Founder of youth
led environment movement “BeLeaf Maldives”,
Youth Ambassador of Earth Day Network South Asia.
‘Maldives is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate
change, we cannot wait, our communities are already suffering.
While Transparency Maldives recognizes the work
of the relevant authorities to address the effects of climate
change, we notice that in the process of this climate work,
we are seeing that the authorities often forget to collaborate
and work together. Many times, we have seen centralized
policies and limited participation of the public and the
beneficiaries. Such decisions have left our communities
more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. This is
why we need to ensure people’s voices remain in the heart
of the conversation, and transparency and accountability
is the topmost priority of the government in the process of
achieving the sustainable development goals’.
Shaziya Ali, Grants and outreach manager,
Transparency Maldives
‘In building back better, we must commit to do things
differently. To do that, we need to make women part of the
policy-making process. Economic policies should be made
in an inclusive manner, where voices of women from both
rural and urban areas are heard’.
Shafeea Riza, Co-Chairperson, Family Legal Clinic (NGO
providing legal aid to domestic violence survivors and
other vulnerable women)
‘Sustainability helps us to align economic, social and
environmental goals which, in the past, we thought was
not possible. The sustainable development goals and the
lessons from the pandemic provide us the guidance that
we need to build a resilient future. We know what needs to
be done. It’s time we roll them into action’.
Raniya Sobir, Researcher & Technical Consultant
on SDGs Implementation
52 53

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54 55

LEO FABER
DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ASIA-EUROPE FOUNDATION (ASEF)
On Thursday 11 June 2020, the Board of Governors of the
Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) appointed the Luxembourger,
His Excellency Leon Faber, former Head of the Delegation of the
European Union to Laos, to the post of Deputy Executive
Director. He has gained an in-depth experience of Southeast
Asian countries and cultures. From his years in Laos to his current
role based in Singapore, His Excellency Leon Faber shares
multiple insights with the readers of Diplomatic World.
this intrinsic wisdom of the Lao people that all suffering, like
everything else, is indeed ephemeral and some light-heartedness
REFLECTING ON THE LAST THREE YEARS AS THE
FIRST AMBASSADOR OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
TO LAOS, CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PRIORITIES
AND KEY ACTIONS? WHICH ACHIEVEMENTS ARE
YOU MOST PROUD OF?
will help us to find something enjoyable in our lives.
Of course, as an official of the European Union my objectives
and ambitions were, together with the team of the EU Delegation,
but also in close cooperation with the EU Members States, to
contribute to the development of Laos that should ultimately lead
to the graduation from the status of a least developed country.
that has been impressive since the introduction of the reform
policies in the 1990’s, has not benefitted everyone to the same
extent and graduation needs again to be postponed. I extend to
H.E. Mr. Thongloun Sisoulith who has recently been elected to
be President of the Lao PDR all my best wishes and hope that he
will be able to lead the country with his government to sustained
and inclusive prosperity.
ute to improved mutual understanding between the people of
Asia and Europe.
The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) was set up in 1997 as the
only permanent institution of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM),
an informal dialogue process that brings together 51 countries,
the European Union and the ASEAN Secretariat. We promote
My story with Laos started when I was given in 1997 the oppor-
The biggest efforts of the European Union were and still are to
intellectual, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, create
tunity to start a new development programme for Luxembourg
in this beautiful country. Little did I know about the country then
and certainly not that I would one day become Ambassador of
the European Union in Vientiane.
Over the years I developed a deep friendship and respect for the
people and culture of Laos, which is still today the least wellknown
country of South East Asia. A good friend mentioned to
me that Laos is like the point on condensation for every chal-
improve nutrition and education, two sectors that are at the foundation
of any sustainable development. We are fully aware of the
manifold challenges that Laos faces, with all its ethnic diversity
and the remoteness of some of the villages that make it difficult
for any government to guarantee access to social services to all
girls and boys, women and men.
The rule of law, good governance, human rights, strong institutions
and a vibrant civil society are however also necessary
ON SUNDAY 7 MARCH, I WAS AGREEABLY SUR-
PRISED TO SEE YOU ON THE VIRTUAL CELEBRA-
TION OF “ASIA-EUROPE MEETING - 25 YEARS!”
WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE ASIA-EUROPE
FOUNDATION? HOW WILL THE ASIA-EUROPE
FOUNDATION BRING ART AND CULTURE OF THE
TWO REGIONS TOGETHER?
platforms for dialogue that enable youth and professionals from
diverse fields to exchange ideas and collaborate on joint activities.
We also act as an interface between civil society and ASEM
governments, facilitating unique recommendations for officials’
consideration.
lenge but also every opportunity that a country can face and
conditions for a country to define its genuine path to develop-
Our time in Laos was remarkable and we will keep a special
indeed it had been again and again on the crossroads between
ment. Laos is a rich country, it has abundant natural resources,
place in our hearts for all our Lao friends. But all good things
East and West. Often it had to pay a heavy price for that.
free flowing rivers, a climate where wood grows with the fastest
have to come to an end, too, and I subsequently moved together
rate on the planet, it produces the juiciest and the most tasteful
with my wife Pina and our third child Anna to Singapore where I
Because of this history and the fact that it has been deeply stim-
tropical fruits and an incomparable aromatic coffee. All these
currently serve at ASEF.
ulated by Theravada Buddhism, the Lao people seem to have
products could find their way to markets as close as Singapore,
developed a unique resilience that is not always easily compre-
but they don’t with sufficient quantities and the Lao economy
This new job felt like a closing a circle. After having studied,
hensible to the rational European mind. The ever so present
remains very vulnerable to outside shocks like the one we are
worked and lived in China, Vietnam and Laos I was very happy
“bo pen yang” - it doesn’t matter - is in my eyes a reflection of
currently experiencing with Covid-19. Economic growth,
to come to this melting pot and hopefully will be able to contrib-
56 57

ASEF has worked in the arts, culture, and heritage since its inception.
We connect artists, cultural professionals, arts organizations,
and policymakers through sustainable long-term alliances.
We respond to gaps in cultural cooperation by providing access
to information, facilitating mobility, and promoting artistic diversity.
In response to the pandemic, we have taken these encounters
into the digital sphere. We therefore invite everyone interested to
stay updated on our activities and open calls and follow us on
our website and social media.
technology, as well as of ongoing collaborations among museums
even at a time when on-site cultural events are not possible, and
many cultural venues remain closed. (www.passagetoasia.eu).
I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to experience the
diversity and wealth of Asian and European cultures and I hope
that I can contribute in a whatever small way to better mutual
understanding for a world with shared prosperity.
Dr. Pick Keobandith, Founder and Director Inspiring Culture
We showcase the artistic diversity through the ASEM Cultural
Festival, which takes place every year alongside ASEM Leaders’
Meeting with public presentations of films, concerts, dance
& theatre performances, visual arts & multimedia exhibitions.
The innovative artistic collaborations were best illustrated by
the project “Kijote Kathakali” in 2018 in Brussels. Performed by
the Margi Kathakali dance group from Kerala, India, it was an
interpretation of Cervantes’ classic novel, Don Quixote in a classical
Indian dance style distinguished by the elaborately colorful
make-up, costumes and face masks that the traditionally male
actor-dancers wear (www.asemculturalfestival.com).
Photos Coll. Leo Faber
ASEF has a long tradition of facilitating co-operation between
museums and helped create the Asia-Europe Museum Network
(ASEMUS), that gathers more than 190 museums in 41 countries.
These museums have undertaken joint exhibitions, collaborative
projects, including the movement of collections as well as staff
exchanges. This cooperation enables the public to enjoy the
treasures of the past they may not always have access to in their
own countries.
Let me take this opportunity to highlight the digital exhibition,
‘A Passage to Asia: 25 Centuries of Exchange between Asia &
Europe’ which was recently launched to mark ASEM Day 2021.
The exhibition brings together exquisite artefacts from several
museums rendered in 3D with labels, audio and visual context
and offers an immersive experience for visitors. It showcases the
rich cultural content to the public harnessing the powers of
58

SPIEF 2021
FROM ESG TO SUSTAINABLE
FINANCE IN EURASIA
DISCUSSIONS AT THE ST. PETERSBURG
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC
THE INTRODUCTION OF THE ESG TAXONOMY
AND PROMOTION OF THE SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN RUSSIA AND THE
EURASIAN ECONOMIC UNION AFTER THE 2021
ST. PETERSBURG INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC
FORUM: A DETAILED ANALYSIS OF THE
NEGOTIATIONS AND THE ROLE FOR THE
BELGIAN- LUXEMBOURG CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE IN RUSSIA (BLCC & BLRB) IN
THE PROCESS.
To start with, Rosatom, PhosAgro, Moscow Exchange,
Gazprombank, Moscow Сity Council and Russian Agricultural
Bank representatives have voiced their ways to meet the ESG
policies introduction targets within their departments on the
“Responsible Finance as a Point of Synergy for Issuers and
Investors when Tapping International Capital Markets” round
table at the SPIEF.
Rosatom representative, Ilya Rebrov, narrated that the company
has recently joined the UN agreement to confirm its compliance
introduction of corporate management practices, which then
gave the increasing impetus for the sustainable development
agenda.
in the years to come. MOEX determined the 7 pillars to its ESG
agenda, which represents its dedication to be at the forefront of
the agenda. Igor Marich also added that a significant number of
with the ESG principles. What is more, the internal programmes
green bonds have been issued: RUB 51 billion of capital were
The Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce in Russia
were introduced to issue the first “green” bonds totaling RUB
At the same time, a business from a different chemical field in
raised through the issue of green and social bonds of 15 issuers,
(for Russia and Belarus) took part in the 24th St. Petersburg
100 billion in value. The first bonds are to be brought to the
Russia, PhosAgro, and its speaker, Aleksander Sharabayko,
meeting both Russian and ICMA green bonds requirements.
International Economic Forum on June 2-5. One of the most
market as early as August, while they are to be intertwined with
confirmed their focus on ESG development in Russia. The
crucial topics on the agenda was ESG, which stands for
special ESG indicators for the company.
spokesperson highlighted the absence of a unified rating system
Furthermore, Moscow City Council came to market as the first
Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance. It is defined
as a major limit to develop ESG finance internationally. The same
Federal State issuer of green bonds with RUB 70 billion on the
broadly as non-financial factors used to identify material risks
Rosatom is to allocate the sourced funds for the development
company could have different positions within this or that ranking
market, which indicates the level of interest not only from the
and growth opportunities. A number of panels dedicated to
of non-nuclear projects and other sustainable solutions.
due to the complex methodology of the latter.
business spheres but also from the government sector. Yet,
Sustainable Development and ESG were conducted on SPIEF.
Mr. Rebrov also noted that the foreign revenues are to be in-
Mr. Marich states that to allow more government authorities to
creased by targeting the development of non-nuclear solutions,
Thus, the access to certain loans and funds would be overly
participate in the ESG bonds issue, more government regulations
The BLCC CEO, Oleg Prozorov and the BLRB President, Stefan
whilst the traditional business activity will rest on Rosatom’s
complicated for the businesses wishing to join the ESG-tran-
and standards should be established first. With the nationwide
Van Doorslaer, as well as the Head of BLCC ESG and Green
compliance in the long run, which is also tightly related to be en-
sition. It serves as a potential limit to domestic Russian and
policy in place, the shift to ESG initiatives will occur at a faster
Finance Expert Council, Nataliya Ponomaryova and Chambers’
vironmentally and socially friendly. Therefore, the Russian state-
international investors to invest in ESG finance in the absence of
pace.
member companies, managed to attend the meetings in
owned market giants are interested in ESG finance and policy.
adequate information, as well as unnecessarily complicates the
person despite the pandemic. By special request of the CEO
process of raising ESG-awareness.
Maria Bagreyeva, Deputy head of the Department for econom-
of Diplomatic World magazine, Barbara Dietrich, the BLCC
One of the companies, with which the Belgian-Luxembourg
ic policy and development at the City of Moscow Apparatus,
Project manager, Artem Golikov, and the Intern for BLCC Russia,
Chamber of Commerce maintains contacts, has also provided
So, the Russian government can intervene to harmonize the
confirms the significant demand for ESG finance in Moscow.
Sarah Cucic, assessed the meeting reports to develop the pro-
an example of internal sustainable development to prove its
rating procedures across the state. The harmonizing rules can be
Throughout the round table, she stated that it equaled nearly
posal of how the Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce
importance. Member of the Management Board of PJSC Sibur
expanded on the multinational level, which is to assist a better
USD 1 billion.
may assist in the introduction and development of ESG taxono-
Holding, Alexey Kozlov, has also narrated on the development of
and efficient development of green projects. In this way, the
my in Russia.
intra-corporate ESG-policy with the example of his company.
Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce can link the
Nevertheless, it was noticed that while the majority of ESG in-
European and Luxembourgish agencies and funds with the accu-
vestors were Russian banks, the foreign finance was attracted to
To do so, the spread of ESG policies was investigated among
As early as in 2019, Sibur made public commitments and ap-
mulated expertise to unite the efforts and fasten the transition.
vanilla bonds of the Moscow city because of the alleged lack of
major Russian businesses, the expertise gained by Luxembourg
proved the company’s sustainable development strategy at the
understanding and communication for the ESG finance in Russia
financial organizations and the industrial firms in Belgium were
board of directors level, which reflects all the significant factors:
The Managing Director for Sales and Business Development
and its representation overseas.
analyzed, as well as the speeches of BLCC’ ESG and Green
E, S and G. The speaker highlighted that the effectiveness of
at Moscow Exchange, Igor Marich, backed the role of the ESG
Finance Expert Council speaker, Nataliya Ponomaryova, were
establishing the policies rests on the transparency of actions
agenda with some specific evidence. He concluded that with
The speaker emphasized that the Russian legislation regulating
looked into.
undertaken by the corporate management teams. So, the
the 30% share of international clients in the Moscow Exchange
ESG financing is likely to be introduced shortly. It will cover not
ESG-oriented development at SIBUR started with the wider
market, ESG finance is already crucial and is to become pivotal
only the taxonomy but establish the provisions of incentives
60 61

allocation for both issuers and investors, which should speed up
ESG finance in Russia, despite the political situation in the former
years and reduced demands for Russian bonds on the global
markets, regardless of their credit quality and ESG compliance.
Other members of the panel assured that after the recent crises,
international partners would prefer domestic markets, so locally
licensed and regulated regions would best suit the shift in demand
for now.
Some relevant criticism was voiced throughout the meetings
at SPIEF. For instance, Denis Shulakov, who is the First Vice
President at Gazprombank, stressed out that only 4% of Russian
companies manage to actually comply with ESG taxonomy in
Russia. Yet, such a view to ESG principles compliance does not
position Russia negatively, as the same challenge is faced all
around the world. Ekaterina Trofimova, Partner for Deloitte CIS,
concludes that more than 80% of the Russian institutions are not
aware of ESG policies, and less than 10% apply them selectively.
It can be inferred that the services of ESG finance should be
advanced among and beyond the top 6 Russian banks. The
services should expand outside the Russian borders so that sufficient
synergy is gained. BLCC Russia maintains active contact
with the major Russian banks, e.g. Gazprombank, both in Russia
and in Luxembourg, and could navigate throughout the web of
contacts to promote the ESG topic in Russia.
Russian Agricultural Bank is tackling the problem of ESG policies
Oleg Prozorov. Stefan Van Doorslaer, Maria Suvorovskaya, Belgian Ambassador to Russia H.E. Marc Michielsen,
Arcadi Arianoff, H.H. Grand Duc George Romanoff. Photo BLCC & BLRB
unawareness with the help of strict imposition of ESG principles
internally and bridging connections with the Russian Union
of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP) to promote its ESG
finance there. Then, it jointly brought the developed relationship
and initiative to the Moscow Exchange, which is the party to the
UN Initiative for the Sustainable Stock Exchange, according to
Roman Serov from the RSHB Asset Management.
The growth of the investors’ base can be maximized with help of
the Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce in Russia, as
it has developed a comprehensive network of business connections
since its emergence in 2013.
Concerning the Luxembourg speakers that were invited to the
forum, namely Sachin Vankalas from LuxFLAG and Julie Becker,
CEO at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. The former spoke
about the importance of clarity and visibility on the markets.
LuxFLAG offers labeling and certification for investment products.
The labels can be used as a positive tool for issuers and
Asset Managers to showcase their sustainability credentials
whether the products are sustainable or not. The differentiation
serves positively to attract more finance. Still, such labeling is
absent in Russia and could be developed soon with help of
external experience and expertise.
The latter speaker notices that LGX constitutes a meeting place
for issuers, asset managers, and investors who wish to make
their mark on sustainable finance and is the world’s first and
leading platform dedicated exclusively to sustainable finance.
Julie Becker also states that there is too much ESG data today,
and there is a growing need to have a comparable data platform
to compare and harmonize every standard.
Russia can potentially position itself at the forefront with the development
of such a platform. The European taxonomy initiative
led by the European Commission proposes a positive direction
regarding the setting of a common ground for taxonomy, which
may also be used for the Russian experience. Last June, the
World Bank (WB) recognized that national taxonomies might be
needed to consider every country’s specificity. Six actions were
recommended by the WB in the form of a guide to developing
the national taxonomy. Among them are criteria of usability by
market participants, presence of recognized expertise, and international
compatibility.
The expert from the Luxembourg Stock Exchange concludes that
ESG policies market fragmentation should be avoided if sustainable
finance is to become the mainstream way to fight challenges
across borders jointly.
BLCC Russia could not agree more, as the motto for the
Chamber is to “Act and Succeed Together”. International
harmonization should be achieved jointly with help of the inter-regional
initiatives that the Chamber of Commerce presents.
The head of the ESG Expert center of the Belgian-Luxembourg
Peace Dove by Ulrike Bolenz
Chamber of Commerce, Natalia Ponomaryova, participated in
the SPIEF 2021 panel “ESG: New Corporate Ethics”. There
Natalia elaborated on the International Financial Reporting
Standards Foundation initiative to establish the new board that
will be responsible for the sustainable development standards.
Five major standards developers on sustainable development
are participating in the negotiations. The companies will have to
rank their business models, major business activity, and profits
in accordance with the developed requirements and standards,
as well as the European taxonomy. The directive is to require
companies to disclose the information on non-financial reporting
at the enterprise and product levels.
At the same time, the significant proposal that was made lies in
conducting the EU-wide auditing on providing sustainability reports.
In other words, as noted by Natalia Ponomaryova, the relation
to sustainable development is changing to the new format
when the company either discloses information on ESG policies
adherence or explains why it has not managed to follow the latter.
So, the expertise and experience on all levels of overlapping
interests for business and governments should be used to tackle
the environmental problems by the harmonization of taxonomy,
legislation, and policies.
Photo: Diplomatic World
62 63

ROSCONGRESS FOUNDATION
AND UN TECHNOLOGY BANK SIGN
COOPERATION AGREEMENT
On the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic
Forum, The Roscongress Foundation and the United Nations
Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries
(UN Technology Bank) signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to establish effective collaboration between the relevant
organizations and business communities in the Russian
Federation and the world’s 46 least developed countries (LDCs)
as part of the implementation of the UN Technology Bank’s
programmes. The document was signed by Roscongress
Foundation CEO and Chairman of the Board Alexander Stuglev
and United Nations Technology Bank Managing Director Joshua
Phoho Setipa. SPIEF Director Alexei Valkov took part in the
exchange of documents.
The UN Technology Bank is a subsidiary body of the United
Nations General Assembly. As the focal point on science,
technology and innovation for LDCs, the UN Technology Bank is
dedicated to enhancing the contribution of science, technology
and innovation for sustainable development in the world’s 46
least developed countries and promotes their integration into the
global knowledge-based economy.
“The UN Technology Bank is an important organization with
activities aiming to help the world’s least developed nations
develop their economies, improve people’s living standards, and
achieve the sustainable development goals. Today, when even
the world’s largest economies find themselves in a stressful situation,
such international assistance is of particular importance,”
Stuglev said. The parties agreed to develop common communication
platforms at the international level and cooperate in areas
such as investment and finance, export-import activities as well
as tourism and culture. The MoU also provides a framework for
the cooperation to strengthen existing and to develop new and
long-term partnerships.
“The Roscongress Foundation, as a socially oriented non-financial
development institution, is an organizer of key international
communication platforms. The Foundation’s activities make a
significant contribution to promoting interstate cooperation in
various sectors. Supporting the development agenda of least
developed countries requires close cooperation between governments,
businesses, and the broader scientific community.
The inclusion of the UN Technology Bank’s agenda in the
Foundation’s work will create relevant opportunities for multi-stakeholder
dialogue, collaborations and partnerships in
the STI area,” said Setipa.
Photo: Roscongress.org
64

RICARDO GUADALUPE
CEO OF HUBLOT
Ricardo Guadalupe, 55 years, was appointed as CEO of
In 1994, following a meeting with Jean-Claude Biver, which
Hublot on 1st January 2012. This appointment has made him
would be decisive for his future, the latter encouraged him to join
Jean-Claude Biver’s designated successor, with the latter now
Blancpain. The brand had been bought out two years earlier by
Chairman of the Board of Hublot. It also marks an entire career in
the Swatch Group. Everything need to be rebuilt, to be returned
the Swiss watch industry, and more than 20 years of loyal collab-
to working order. The adventure promised to be an exciting one,
oration with Jean-Claude Biver, with exceptional results attribut-
and offered Ricardo Guadalupe a new opportunity to stimulate
able to this duo, such as the renaissance of Blancpain and the
his entrepreneurial flair.
burgeoning development of Hublot, two brands which rival the
greatest names in watchmaking.
The experience proved rewarding, particularly in terms of technical
knowledge of Movements, their creation, development and
Of Spanish descent, Ricardo Guadalupe was born in Neuchâtel,
production. This is a key aspect of the profession. It also marked
Ricardo Guadalupe CEO of Hublot
Switzerland on 5th March 1965, where he grew up and spent his
the beginning of 20 years of collaboration and loyal friendship
entire school career in this region known as the cradle of Swiss
with Jean-Claude Biver. Appointed International Sales and
luxury watchmaking. After obtaining his school leaver’s certificate,
and already driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, he enrolled
in a Swiss Business School before leaving in the United States to
take a course at the University of Los Angeles (UCLA). In 1988,
he was 22 years of age. With a degree and successful time spent
in America behind him, he decided to return to Switzerland to
start his professional career. Watchmaking was his profession of
choice, a passion which had grown year on year since his earliest
days in Neuchâtel.
He started as Product Manager at Bulgari. The company was
already a major name, but in terms of its watchmaking activities,
it was still a small organisation in Geneva. It was a dream opportunity
to learn, to tackle every aspect of the business: creation,
design, production, procurement, development of the distribution
network, marketing… Taken together, these seven years gave
him an understanding of the product, the traditional aspect of the
profession, whilst developing an aesthetic sensibility for design
and creation, essential for the “Italian touch”.
This allowed Ricardo Guadalupe to play a role in the development
of the group’s future activities and its strategic transfer from
Geneva to Neuchâtel.
Marketing Director of Blancpain in 1997, he left the company
in 2001 after 8 years, with over a 100 million in turnover to
his credit.
In 2001, boasting a range of different yet complementary experiences,
and now able to implement high performance operating
principles and working systems, he became an independent
watchmaking consultant and was offered the chance to develop
Léonard watches. He faced a new challenge: the production and
positioning of franchise watches. In a new world: fashion. He
successfully led the launch and marketing of the various models
in a highly competitive sector.
Three years later, in 2004, Jean-Claude Biver decided to take
over the running of Hublot. He called Ricardo Guadalupe to
come and join him in this new challenge.
The task set was ambitious: in short, to revitalise this brand and
redevelop it to switch from producing 90% quartz watches to
producing 90% mechanical watches. He did not hesitate for a
second. At the time, the brand created in 1980 only had a turnover
of 25 million Swiss francs and a small workforce of around
thirty people. What happened next is rather better known:
Jean-Claude Biver and he combined their expertise and their
talent to make a success of Hublot.
In the space of just one year, in April 2005 in fact, they pulled
off the incredible feat of launching a revolutionary chronograph:
the Big Bang, perfectly in line with the brand’s “art of fusion”
concept. Unveiled at BaselWorld 2005 and awarded the “Best
Design of the Year” at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie event in
Geneva that same year, the watch was an immediate success.
The awards came thick and fast. Hublot was injected with an
extraordinary dynamism, guaranteeing exceptional growth.
Jean-Claude Biver and Ricardo Guadalupe were truly the forces
behind the rebirth of this brand. In fact, one might say “birth”
considering their achievements: firstly, the company’s economic
growth, with turnover increasing in four years from 25 million to
more than 200 million Swiss francs in 2008, when the brand was
sold to LVMH.
There has been physical growth too, with the inauguration in
November 2009, attended by Bernard Arnault, of a new hightech
manufacture on the banks of Lake Geneva in Nyon.
6000 m 2 dedicated to the watchmaker’s art, to the development,
creation and production of movements such as the UNICO, a
column-wheel chronograph, and major watch complications
such as tourbillons, minute repeaters, the Antikythera movement,
the Key of Time movement, the LaFerrari (world record with
50 days of power reserve) etc.
Keen to keep Hublot at the forefront of research into the latest
high-tech materials and to preserve its cutting-edge expertise,
the company installed a foundry to produce Magic Gold, a
scratch-resistant 18-carat gold launched at the end of 2011.
That same year, Hublot bought the Swiss company Profusion,
which specialises in the manufacture of carbon fibre components.
In 2013, Hublot also presented the World Premiere of
a watch made with bright red ceramic.
In 2015, Hublot extended its manufacture to 14 000 m² with
the inauguration of a second building, near the first one. This
extension is highly symbolic for the brand - it bears witness to its
expansion and its success. The Nyon architectural firm Coreta
has added 8,000 m² of surface where Hublot installed 100 workstations
over the next 3 years. This will give the company a workforce
of over 400 people in Switzerland. The project represents
an investment of 20 million Swiss francs for the company.
66 67

In 2016, Hublot celebrated the UEFA EURO 2016TM with football
legends such as Pelé, Maradona to name only two of them, in
France during one month of competition. 2016 was also the 10th
anniversary of the All Black concept invented by Hublot in 2006,
celebrated first in New York in the occasion of the flagship opening
situated on the iconic 5th Avenue, in the presence of Usain
Bolt and Pelé.
In terms of marketing, Jean Claude Biver and Ricardo
Guadalupe’s constancy and consistency are just as remarkable
as his need to keep turning received ideas on their head, as
illustrated by his strategy: “Go where potential customers can
be found”. This approach made him the first to integrate a luxury
brand into the world of football.
In 2008, Hublot became the “Official Timekeeper” of the EURO
Championship. In 2010, the brand became the historic first
“Official Watch” and “Official Timekeeper” for FIFA and the World
Cup (next one in 2018 in Russia), just after having been chosen
as the “Official Watch” and “Official Timekeeper” of Ferrari.
These two masterstrokes offer Hublot exceptional visibility on
a global scale.
KEVIN PIETERSEN
FOUNDER OF SORAI
Our planet is home to five species of rhinoceros.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature,
of these five species, the Black, Javan and Sumatran rhino are now
considered “critically endangered”, White rhino are
“nearly threatened” and Indian rhino are “vulnerable”.
I am appalled by the brutality they face. There is an urgent need
for action, and Hublot’s support for this is crucial.
By reducing the time it takes to act, we can protect
as many rhinos as possible.
Hublot has also created an exclusive club of friends and ambassadors
who go beyond sport, all real living legends in their field,
with whom the brand works hand in hand on several charity
projects: The fastest man on the planet Usain Bolt, Bayern
Munich, Juventus Turin and Chelsea FC to name just a few in
the field of football, Ayrton Senna’s family with Instituto Ayrton
Senna, the prestigious Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
presided over by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, Dwyane Wade
and the NBA Champion Miami Heat, Kobe Bryant with the
Los Angeles Lakers from the NBA, Maria Riesch and Dario
Cologna in skiing, Depeche Mode and Jay-Z in the music field.
The brand also supports polo and golf through competitions
“Because the connection is all about sharing. If you don’t share,
you miss out. Hublot has been fortunate and has a duty to
share some of its success”.
With Jean-Claude Biver and Ricardo Guadalupe still at the helm,
Hublot is also the first luxury brand to have launched an online
television service (Hublot TV) and to continually explore new
revolutionary interactive showcases. Commercially, the network
of exclusive boutiques and approved retailers has rocketed since
2007-2008 and now boasts 750 points of sale and more than
80 exclusive boutiques at some of the world’s most prestigious
addresses (Geneva, Place Vendôme in Paris, New York’s 5th
Avenue, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, Saint Tropez, London, Berlin,
Munich, Moscow, Singapore, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Dubai,
among others).
Ricardo Guadalupe CEO of Hublot
Anchored in the present and always evolving, at the forefront of
new advances in technology and fundamental research into new
materials, Hublot remains committed to traditional expertise,
creating timepieces which bear the mark of the most talented
master watchmakers.
In this way, the brand represents the Art of Fusion between
watchmaking culture and cutting-edge technical developments,
between the past and the future… as, in the words of Hublot’s
Chairman Jean-Claude Biver and Hublot’s CEO Ricardo
Guadalupe, “we are not breaking with the past, on the contrary
we are paying homage to it by connecting it to the future”.
Two-thirds of rhinoceros species may disappear in our lifetime,
which would be an irreversible loss for our planet; and its main cause is poaching.
Hublot has committed to a partnership with Kevin Pietersen and
his platform SORAI – Save Our Rhino Africa India – to preserve rhinoceroses
threatened with extinction. This commitment takes the form of the
Big Bang Unico SORAI, from which a large portion of the funds raised from sales
will be directly paid to Care for Wild for the rescue and rehabilitation of
orphaned baby rhinoceroses. In buying the timepiece, 100 people will thus become
involved in this initiative undertaken by Hublot.
68 69

SHEPARD FAIREY
STREET ARTIST
THE HEIGHTS OF CREATIVE FUSION
Hublot is about craftsmanship and a very refined
execution and that to me is what my art is about:
doing whatever it takes to create a visual
that I think is important to create.
Hublot creates brand new codes through
the fusion of materials, science and style
Now a distinctive character trait, ‘The Art of Fusion’ forms the
brand’s very DNA. Hublot’s story began with this motto, which
now guides all its actions, its innovations, its developments and
its partnerships. Embodying this subtle connection between a
past ingrained with secular traditions, and a future nourished by
visionary ideas, always avant-garde, always researching new
materials, it blends styles and materials with ease. Its partners
and ambassadors share its convictions. Members of a family
united by a common DNA.
“Fusion is life. It’s a philosophy. A concept so simple that
it is child’s play. Therein lies the key to success:
innovation which reveals this self-evident premise.
From time immemorial, the greatest achievements
have grown out of the simplest ideas”.
Jean-Claude Biver, Chairman of Hublot and
President of the LVMH Group Watch Division
By combining elements from nature, which are never found
in their native state, Hublot has reproduced the Big Bang,
the moment at which everything came into existence. A modern-day
alchemist blending the past and the future, tradition
and innovation. The use of metals in their original form and the
first ore reductions date back to prehistoric times. Metals and
alloys were then developed with the industrial revolution so that,
nowadays, we have a plethora of forms, compositions and applications
which is seemingly limitless. It is in this universe made of
materials, minerals, metals, ceramics, polymers, composite materials
and alloys, that Hublot is perpetually reinventing ‘The Art
embroidery, flax fibre, denim, velvet or woven suit fabric – materials
in an array of colours – Texalium ® , quartz or even sapphire,
materials derived from minerals – concrete – or from animals –
leather –. These materials are all an invitation into the very heart
of the watch; they shape its case and, sometimes, its dial.
To realise the full potential of this constant pursuit in R&D,
the Nyon-based Manufacture has had its own foundry since
2012, as well as a team dedicated to fusion – the Metallurgy
and Materials Department. Hublot is investing in fundamental
research by collaborating in particular with the EPFL (Swiss
Federal Institute of Technology) since 2010.
of Fusion’. The endless options of nature are its greatest source
of inspiration, an infinite source.
‘The Art of Fusion’ is a seminal stance that finds its expression
Created in 2004 by Jean-Claude Biver, Chairman of Hublot and
President of the LVMH Group Watch Division, and Ricardo
Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot, ‘The Art of Fusion’ highlights one
gene which has been intrinsically rooted in the brand’s DNA
since its creation in 1980 – Hublot was the first to combine gold
with natural rubber. Ever since, this philosophy has brought
dozens of new materials to life. Unique and exclusive, some are
even patented. Brand new alloys; Hublonium, King Gold, Magic
Gold –, the combination of immiscible components including carbon
and metal –, the hardest and most scratch-resistant materials
– sapphire –, the creation through synthesis of the rarest form
of gold on Earth – Gold crystal –, fabrics and fibres – St Gallen
far beyond the materials, but moreover a mind-set that guides
all Hublot’s actions and partnerships. Partners and ambassadors
who are part of the same dynamic, members of a family united
by a common DNA: the pursuit of excellence, distinction and
innovation. Men, women and brands which are changing the
course of history. These include elite athletes making their mark
in sport – Usain Bolt, Pelé, Maradona, Kobe Bryant, Dustin
Johnson – talented artists going against the mainstream – Lang
Lang, Sang Bleu, Andreas Caminada, Lapo Elkann – major competitions
– UEFA EURO, the FIFA World Cup, the Cricket World
Cup – bold and innovative brands - Ferrari, Italia Independent, AK
Ski. Individually and collectively, they embody ‘The Art of Fusion’.
Shepard Fairey was born in Charleston, South Carolina, USA.
He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration at the
Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, Rhode Island.
In 1989 he created the “Andre the Giant has a Posse”
sticker that transformed into the OBEY GIANT art campaign,
with imagery that has changed the way people see art and
the urban landscape. His work has evolved into an acclaimed
body of art, which includes the 2008 “Hope”
portrait of Barack Obama, found at the
Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery.
70 71

72 73

74 75

Date: 1 st to 7 th June 2021
Venue: Alliance Francaise, Dubai
Curated by
I love Life. The pictures I draw either through linocuts or freehand are
all about the Natural world and the plights of animals. To me, every
single life matters and as the theme suggests, we need to be celebrated
because we are all celebrities in our own right. Humans as apex
species have no predators and through our activities we are expanding
into the Natural world and creating havoc for them and by extension
to ourselves. The present pandemic bears testimony. For too long, our
livelihood has been anchored in expanding into the wilderness and we
are causing untold damage to their lives. Yet we can all live, in harmony,
if only we are more caring and more sensitive. I also abhor trophy hunting
as it underscores human vanity at the cost of innocent lives. As an
illustrator, I draw Nature as I see it and as I feel for them. I want to share
their feelings, their plights through celebrities as they are more visible to
the world. Thus I contribute to raising awareness through my Art which
is a labour of love.
Hercules Theodoros presently resides in Canterbury in
Kent, UK. He studied at the University for Creative Arts,
UK and graduated with a Diploma in Fine Arts. He went
on to complete his BA in Fine Arts at the Christchurch
University, Canterbury, UK. Hercules has been passionate
about Art especially wildlife. For an artist, he is more
of an animator, drawer and illustrator. Hercules is also
passionate about languages, and he speaks up to
seven languages and speaks at least five fluently
and smattering in a few others.
76 77

KOEN VANMECHELEN
LAMOUSEION
The future does not just happen. It does not just fall out of the
sky like rain on an ordinary morning. The future is a consequence
of the ideas we dare to think about. Especially in crises, like our
current times, we have to consider the unthinkable to do the
impossible. We have to create safe havens to think the unthinkable
and to set the outlines of tomorrow. And that is precisely
what I do with LaMouseion, with as driving motto; “Breaking the
boundaries of clarity to come into a new reality.”
More than 2,000 years ago, the astronomer Aristarchus of Samos
conceived within the walls of the famous Mouseion that not the
earth but the sun was the fixed center of the known universe.
In ancient Alexandria, this Mouseion was a unique cradle of
knowledge. A venerable place dedicated to the muses - the nine
goddesses of science and the fine arts. Home also to music and
poetry. To philosophy and literature.
The generator of mathematics and physics. Of astronomy, biology,
and historiography. With LaMouseion, I create a contemporary
version of this historical predecessor. A new place for experiments
at the crossroads of nature and culture. Amid what some
call the Anthropocene, and others the beginning of the Apocalypse.
LaMouseion is a fresh start - Ab Ovo - starting at the egg.
LaMouseion’s first project is called The Unthinkable Experiment.
In the Unthinkable Experiment we focus specifically on young
people, and the diversity and freshness of their thinking. Their
voices must be heard. It’s about their future. Acclaimed by a
series of global lockdowns, we search for new knowledge.
We need to think about new structures.
New models. New knowledge. Survivable Ecosystems. Sustainability
and biodiversity. About inclusion. We will have to build
a new ethic. Based on generosity and curiosity, critical thinking,
solidarity, and responsibility. Inspired by the environment of
LABIOMISTA. In the freedom of the arts.
Like in Ancient Greece, LaMouseion lets free thinkers meet in
their passionate search for answers, knowledge, and wisdom.
They work in three large wooden boxes on the border between
nature and culture in LABIOMISTA’s Protected Paradise. Each
of the wooden boxes is named after one of the pillars of evolution:
diversity, fertility, and immunity. The knowledge boxes are
open to all people who want to write, research, and brainstorm,
inspired by the environment of LABIOMISTA.
The only condition for participating is that they leave behind the
precipitation of the knowledge accumulated there, as an addition
to LABIOMISTA’s Library of Collected Knowledge (L.O.C.K). As
it is my conviction that we should consult, bring together, and
stimulate the unprecedented, unknown potential of brains in the
world to try to find solutions to the enormous problems facing
our planet. After all, innovation arises from this connection. The
goal is to discover, remember and cherish. But also, to question,
to learn, to translate, and to pass on. With and within this world.
Without any restrictions. In LaMouseion, one can think the
Unthinkable. LaMouseion is expecting you.
Why does Koen Vanmechelen have a
column in Diplomatic World?
Unlike anyone else, this visionary artist
bridges the divides between cultures,
disciplines, communities and generations.
Belgian artist Koen Vanmechelen (1965)
is an internationally acclaimed
conceptual artist.
His exploration of crucial issues as
diversity, fertility and identity is translated
into highly idiosyncratic works
and projects.
Decoding and recoding nature's language,
the artist tackles contemporary issues
regarding human rights, sustainability
and multiculturalism.
Photos: Kris Vervaeke LaMouseion, LABIOMISTA, Genk (BE)
©️ Koen Vanmechelen
78 79

LEON LÖWENTRAUT
LEONISMO
EXHIBITIONS
Venice, Vienna, Munich, Paris
Venice, Vienna, Munich, Paris, Zurich, London, Rome – German
artist Leon Löwentraut 2021/22 will be showing his new works in
selected museums and galleries in these European art metropolises.
The international exhibition tour is another milestone in
the career of the 23-year-old artist Leon Löwentraut, who was
recently included in the “30 under 30” list by Forbes (the 30 most
important German personalities under 30 years).
The first stop of the large-scale touring exhibition “Leonismo”
is the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana in Venice. In the historical
“Sale Monumentali” of the library, located directly on St. Mark’s
Square, around 30 new paintings, exclusive editions and charcoal
drawings by Leon Löwentraut enter into a fruitful dialogue
with works of the Renaissance by, among others, Tizian,
Veronese and Tintoretto.
While the main work of the exhibition “La Duchessa” is to be understood
as a bow to the city of Venice and the art of the Renaissance,
in other works he deals with the baroque formal language
of the Spanish court painter Diego Velázquez and translates it
into the unmistakable Leon Löwentraut style from bright colors
and vibrating form rhythms. In addition, tondi (round art works
on canvase) made by the artist specially for this exhibition, will
be shown for the first time. The young artist understands this
format as a homage to the old masters. The round art works,
popular in ancient Greece and ancient Rome, had a zenith in the
Leon Löwentraut Kurator Mandfred Möller
Photo: Adrian Bedoy
Leon Löwentraut Tondi Art Works Biblioteca Nazionale
Photo: Adrian Bedoy
15th century, but after that it was quiet about the unusual picture
form, which like no other directs the gaze to the subject and
creates an almost intimate relationship between viewer and the
observed figure. Now Leon Löwentraut is taking this format up
again in the upcoming exhibition at Biblioteca Nazionale
Marciana.
Löwentraut’s works are created spontaneously and impulsively.
The artist prefers to paint with full use of his body while listening
to loud music on the floor. The works reveal their narrative
qualities in a tense manner and give insight into Löwentraut’s
view of the world: his subjects are versatile, deal with people
and interpersonal relationships, oscillate between optimism and
criticism, and often also show the isolated person behind the
social facade. Nevertheless, Löwentraut’s works always exude
an irrepressible zest for life and confidence. In this regards he
hits the pulse of the times.
Leon Löwentraut has already exhibited his works in New York,
London, Copenhagen, Singapore as well as in the Pushkin
Museum in St. Petersburg, in the Palazzo Medici Riccardi in
Florence and in the renowned Osthaus Museum in Hagen.
The Forbes jury won over Löwentraut not only with his powerful,
expressive works, but also with his art campaigns such as the
“Global Goals” and his “Global Gate”, one of the largest mobile
sculptures in the world, which will stand at Frankfurt Airport until
the end of May 2021.
Both art events deal with the topic of “sustainability”, interpret it
artistically and carry it out into the world. According to Forbes,
the man from Düsseldorf is one of the young Germans who
achieved outstanding results in 2020 and are working to change
society for the better. Other stops at the Global Gate will be
Singapore, Dallas and Hong Kong.
For the “# Art4Global Goals” campaign, Leon Löwentraut
painted a total of 17 unique pieces - with the support of
UNESCO, the YOU Foundation and Geuer & Geuer Art
This work will be used worldwide until 2030 to publicize
and support the sustainable development goals jointly
adopted by the global community and the United Nations.
The 17 goals are intended to help everyone on our planet to
live a life in dignity. The goals include: Ending extreme
poverty, quality education for all, and peace and justice.
The opening exhibition for the campaign took place in 2018
at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/?menu=1300.
80 81

Manfred Möller, art expert, publisher and curator of the exhibition,
adds: “Leon Löwentraut got a voice in the contemporary art
EXHIBITION
scene in a short time and he succeeded in getting a new generation
enthusiastic about art in the first place. They follow him
on Facebook and Instagram, visit his exhibitions and collect his
works because he speaks their language.” Leon Löwentraut is
looking forward to the exhibition in Venice:” It’s a great honour for
me, to be able to exhibit alongside such great masters as Tizian
and Veronese, to whom I look up with great respect and awe. “
Sale Monumentali della Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana
Entrance to the exhibition via Museo Correr
Piazza San Marco n.52 - Ala Napoleonica
I - 30124 Venice
www.marciana.venezia.sbn.it
Opening times: 11 am - 5pm
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, opening times may
For the exhibition, Edition Minerva, which specializes in highquality
art publications, will publish a catalog for the exhibition
change at short notice. Current information from Museo
Correr https://correr.visitmuve.it
as well as an elaborate “LL” portfolio folder, limited to 50 pieces,
each with three hand-finished, numbered and signed editions
by Leon Löwentraut. A comprehensive illustrated book is in the
works for the end of 2021.
NEXT EXHIBITIONS
The Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana in Venice is one of the largest
libraries in Italy and houses important collections of Greek, Latin,
Palma de Mallorca: Gerhardt Braun Gallery,
25. June – 25. September 2021
and Italian manuscripts, including the will of Marco Polo. The
library, founded in 1468, with its splendid, monumental rooms
watches over a stock of over a million books. Mostly built by
Wien: Bank Austria Kunstforum,
9. July - 31. July 2021
Jacopo Sansovino and completed by Vincenzo Scamozzi,
the Sale Monumentali with its grand staircase, vestibule, and
historical reading room, designed by Venice’s most famous
München: Bayerisches Nationalmuseum,
28. August - 26. September 2021
Renaissance artists, are the highlights of the library. Once used
by great scholars, brilliant strategists and crowned heads,
exhibitions are held here today.
Zürich: Galerie WOS & Kapelle des Kulturhauses Helferei,
2. September - 2. October 2021
Stefano Campagnolo, Director Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana and Leon Löwentraut
Photo: Adrian Bedoy
Leon Löwentraut at his atelier
Photo: Adrian Bedoy
Leon Löwentraut with his LL portfolio folder, limited to 50 pieces
Photo: Adrian Bedoy
82 83

PARVATI FOUNDATION LEADS ARCTIC
FREE TO SAVE THE WORLD
The Arctic Ocean is our world’s air conditioner and life support
due to prolonged monsoon flooding in Asia. Clearly, we must do
system, regulating the weather patterns that give all of us the
everything possible to protect the ice that remains, instead of
food and water we need to survive. But it’s melting to record
allowing it to be destroyed further.
lows, and Arctic Ocean temperatures are rising. According to
the National Snow & Ice Data Center, Last year’s Arctic sea ice
That’s why Parvati Foundation has launched “Arctic Free”.
minimum is the second lowest on record, just 3.74 million square
Arctic Free catalyzes public demand for an immediate end to
kilometres. In its place, deadly exploitation is rushing in, breaking
the ice up even more and contributing further to its loss.
commercial and military activity in the Arctic Ocean above the
Arctic Circle. Arctic Free addresses all present and potential
dangerous activity that threatens the Arctic Ocean and, therefore,
and gas interests or countries from moving ahead with planned
exploitation. This year alone, hundreds of new exploration blocks
SHIPPING AND TOURISM
As the ice melts, our global climate destabilizes. When droughts
our world: oil and gas, commercial shipping and fishing, military
are on offer.
As Arctic sea ice melts, new shipping routes have been drawn
and floods strike, crops fail. 25,000 people already die of starva-
activity, tourism, and dumping.
through the Arctic Ocean. On the Northern Sea Route, ship traffic
tion every single day. According to the World Health Organiza-
There is no proven effective method to contain, let alone clean up
now runs from the Kara Sea to the Bering Strait off the coast of
tion, every year, water-associated infectious diseases claim up to
3.2 million lives, and air pollution kills an estimated seven million
people worldwide.
OIL AND GAS
an oil spill—especially in the remote, icy Arctic waters. The Exxon
Valdez disaster in 1989, the worst oil spill until the Deepwater
Horizon blowout in 2010, is proof of how difficult it is to manage
Russia. And it has increased 430% in just three years.
This spring and summer alone, at least 107 multi-day cruises
Scientists warned in 2015 that all Arctic seabed oil and gas had
an Arctic oil spill.
are planned through the Arctic Ocean north of the Arctic Circle –
Globally, approximately 8,100 people lost their lives due to natu-
to stay in the ground under any scenario that limits global tem-
some right up to the North Pole. And at least 204 more commer-
ral catastrophe events in 2020, of which at least 3,500 occurred
perature rise to “well below 2°C”. But that has not stopped oil
The spill was catastrophic for coastal communities, marine life
cial voyages are planned in the High Arctic for whale watching or
and seabirds. The environment still bears the scars 30 years
northern lights viewing.
later. If an oil blowout like the Deepwater Horizon took place
under Arctic sea ice, it could go undetected and unaddressed for
Commercial shipping and cruising pose serious environmental
months.
risks which are reason enough on their own to keep this activity
out of the Arctic. Large ships typically burn heavy fuel oil, one
Accidents involving tankers carrying liquefied natural gas can
of the world’s dirtiest and most polluting fuels, which produces
cause a major spill, chemical fire, doing catastrophic damage for
exhaust that is high in sulfur and particulate matter. The exhaust
at least a 500m radius, and posing a grave threat to public safety.
heats our world, not only because of the release of massive
Explosions are also possible.
volumes of CO2, but also because its particulate matter settles
on the Arctic ice sheets, darkening them, and causes them to
In addition, methane deposits in the softening permafrost of the
absorb, rather than reflect, the sun’s radiation. This results in
Arctic seabed risk being jarred loose by any drilling or seismic
even more rapid ice melt.
activity - catalyzing immediate planetary warming.
Heavy fuel-powered ships in the Arctic Ocean risk oil spills in
Our world cannot afford oil and gas exploration in the Arctic
a remote ecosystem where cleanup is difficult or impossible.
Ocean. Any investment in Arctic oil and gas is an investment in
Heavy fuel sticks to anything it touches. The Arctic Ocean is
our own destruction. Going Arctic Free keeps up to 148 trillion
home to whales, seals, polar bears and several bird species
kg of CO2 out of the atmosphere and pivots us to a healthy,
which form part of a unique and diverse ecosystem that deserves
sustainable future.
our concerted protection. Commercial shipping and cruising also
84 85

esult in sonic and atmospheric pollution and increased potential
for fuel and oil leaks.
nating the environment and fish, making their way up the food chain.
Further, any tampering with the seabed with its huge deposits of
methane, such as through bottom trawling, threatens us all.
ARCTIC FREE AND THE MARINE ARCTIC PEACE
SANCTUARY (MAPS)
we commit that commercial or military activities in ocean waters
above the Arctic Circle are not and will never be part of any
activity, good, service, supply chain, or product associated
Some Arctic ships are nuclear-powered instead of burning heavy
Stopping fishing in the high seas, as contemplated by the Agree-
Arctic Free is part of Parvati Foundation’s work to establish the
with the Company.”
fuel. But this costly technology, normally reserved for military
ment to Prevent Unregulated High Seas Fisheries in the Central
Marine Arctic Peace Sanctuary (MAPS), which supports 15 of
ships, also puts more heat into the ocean, and creates more risk
Arctic Ocean, is not enough. Most commercial fishing doesn’t
the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. MAPS establishes
Companies eligible to sign the Pledge include those that
of a nuclear accident. The health of the global economy does not
happen in the high seas: it takes place closer to shore.
the Arctic Ocean north of the Arctic Circle as the world’s largest
either currently, or could otherwise in future, have such inter-
require the opening of new shipping and cruising routes north
permanent marine protected area, free from all exploitation and
ests, whether direct or indirect. Examples include: commercial
of the Arctic Circle. They’re a shortcut to only one thing: mass
A truly sustainable fishing industry means the only fishing north
militarization. At the same time, MAPS catalyzes an immediate
shipping companies, consumer goods companies, fossil fuel
extinction.
of the Arctic Circle is non-commercial, for subsistence only. This
global pivot to sustainable energy, and a paradigm shift from
exploration, exploitation and retail companies, nuclear and weap-
way, Arctic coastal communities will be able to depend on the
short-term greed to long-term good.
ons manufacturing companies, financial institutions, insurance
FISHING
ocean as a food source for generations to come, and the world
will be protected from the dangerous consequences of a ravaged
and depleted Arctic Ocean ecosystem.
To support the swift realization of MAPS, Parvati Foundation
took the unprecedented step of creating the Marine Arctic Peace
companies, shipping logistics companies, vessel construction
companies, companies that own, operate or maintain shipping
vessels, etc. Companies must certify that they comply with the
With parts of the Arctic Ocean nearly 7°C hotter than they should
Sanctuary Treaty as an addendum to the United Nations Conven-
Pledge requirements.
be, and many species struggling to adjust to the loss of ice, the
Arctic ecosystem is in a critical state. Yet commercial fishing is
looking to bottom trawl this vulnerable ecosystem, damaging the
DUMPING
tion on the Law of the Sea.
The Treaty has been translated into all six official languages of
Commercial and military activities in the Arctic Ocean are hazardous
to our global health. They threaten an already-vulnerable
seabed and all marine life in its path.
Pollution to the Arctic Ocean, from commercial and industrial ac-
the UN, distributed to all 193 member states, and brought every
ecosystem—one that must be preserved, not destroyed, so it
tivities, threatens to damage this vulnerable ecosystem beyond
year since 2015 to the UN Conference of the Parties by volun-
can continue to support life on Earth. We must act now to protect
Our world’s track record for sustainable fishery is dismal. Accord-
repair. Plastics, waste, and grey water from ships kill marine life
teers at their own expense. It enters into force with the signatures
the Arctic Ocean with Arctic Free and MAPS. Everyone has an
ing to United Nations estimates, over 80 percent of global fish-
and devastate habitats for centuries. Increased ship traffic raises
of 99 states members of the UN or any of the specialized agen-
important role to play. To find out more, go to www.parvati.org/
eries are either “fully exploited,” “overexploited,” or “depleted.”
the strong possibility of more illegal or unregulated dumping and
cies, and has already been endorsed by two world leaders.
arctic-free.
Only one percent is “recovering.” Commercial fishing pollutes
environmental contamination.
through heavy fuel use, ship noise, and the nets it leaves behind.
World leaders will hasten to sign the MAPS Treaty when they
Author: Parvati Foundation
Bottom trawl fishing kills marine life and damages the seabed -
Existing regulations on dumping at sea only cover some ships,
see the global business community galvanizing around MAPS,
Contact: Vandana Erin Ryder, General Counsel,
while generating as much CO2 as the aviation industry.
and don’t prevent the dumping that already happens from
through dedicating themselves to being Arctic Free. The Arctic
Parvati Foundation, vandana@parvati.org
warships or other government vessels. The Arctic Ocean plays a
Free Pledge is a firm commitment to no commercial or military
Allowing commercial fishing in the Arctic Ocean above the Arctic
vital role in sustaining all life on Earth. Protecting it is protecting
activity in or through any part of the Arctic Ocean above the
Photos: Parvati Foundation
Circle only worsens the problem of overfishing and decline in global
ourselves. It’s time for a strong, unanimous, international com-
Arctic Circle, now or in the future: “Recognizing the value of pre-
fish stocks. Pollutants from shipping vessels and gear are contami-
mitment not to pollute these waters.
serving the Arctic Ocean for the sake of all life on Earth,
86 87

PRINCE LUDWIG OF BAVARIA
MY AFRICA VIRUS
I do not talk about some mutant strain of Covid or some other
ly were billboards. They stand in the middle of nowhere, proudly
infectious disease when I mention my Africa Virus. It merely
declaring the territory as the location of agriculture, water, live-
describes the phenomenon, how the love for this great conti-
stock, or similar projects. But, much like the shattered statue of
nent can catch you from one day to the next and shape your life
the arrogant King Ozymandias, in Percy Shelley’s equally named
significantly.
poem, there was only dust and rubble left.
Coming from an aristocratic family in Europe, I had little to com-
It made me think a lot about the sustainability of international aid.
plain about in my youth. The pretty bubble of privilege I grew up
From being a devoted supporter of the role of the International
in left me concerned with ‘developed’ world problems, such as
Community, I became carefully sceptical of what its achieve-
optimizing my education and finding purpose in a large pool of
ments on this continent were.
possible cultural, political, or economic career options.
In my case, I chose to study law, and my academic interest grew
towards international humanitarian law. Especially the African
Leaning Lions Students and Prince Ludwig of Bavaria at local Hackathon
continent caught my eye, and even if it were usually the negative
examples of armed conflicts or humanitarian catastrophes
On a more positive note, I found many locals on the ground who
between a thriving technological community and a start-up and
that made the news - it started to call out to me attract me more
had their ideas on how to solve the regional problems. These ide-
entrepreneurial mindset of Kenyans in a hub like Nairobi and their
and more. Maybe I had subconsciously been influenced by all
as were diverse, and some were more realistic than others. But
fellow nationals living in villages without water, school education,
the overly romanticized “White Saviour” stories that had circled
they all had the commonality that they had people behind them,
or health facilities only a few 100 kilometres away.
literature and popular culture for the past decades that would call
who never would let their own dreams turn to dust. This pioneer-
a young person out to experience adventure.
ing mindset to build something from the ground up, may it be
a school, a farm, or some business under the most challenging
But before seriously considering a career in humanitarian law or
circumstances, is just so much more elemental than in Europe.
human rights like working for the United Nations or similar organizations
like many of my friends, I decided to travel the continent
Without a convenient hardware store or even a road nearby,
independently first - before being bound by a strict set of rules of
people in the villages have to utilize local materials. You learn
an international organization.
to appreciate the value of water, electricity, and road construction
if none of them are provided by the public infrastructure.
I remember my first tour, where I started backpacking and hitch-
Everything has to be created from scratch.
hiking through the Rift Valley, trying to reach a remote missionary
station between the Kenyan and Ethiopian Border. I had my ad-
This challenge can be incredibly addictive and is the first element
venture, of course: I never got to reach my destination but spent
of the Africa Virus that made me return again and again. But the
weeks living with locals, travelled hundreds of kilometres on the
most decisive aspect is the realization of dreams and the differ-
back of lorries, sometimes even with a goat on my knees. What
ence between before and after. The African continent can offer
I did discover is that the “White Saviours” were nowhere to be
plenty of examples where development has happened rapidly
seen. What I saw from the large international organizations main-
Prince Ludwig of Bavaria
out of its own strength. Think about the immense discrepancies
Learning Lions Studenten
88 89

Students at Learning Lions Campus
Prince Ludwig of Bavaria, opening of Kindergarden
Development that took Europe centuries can be done on the
one or two individuals, but they grew into fully formed local
infrastructure to education and business, to put it on a solid and
About ten years later, together with the same local people, we
African continent in few decades or even just a few years.
organizations through our cooperation.
confident path that can again inspire other communities.
have built a thriving village called Loropio. It has kindergarten, a
It is easy for somebody visiting from the “developed” world to
primary, and a secondary school. Many of those who were too
catch this Africa Virus and be enticed to join into this adventure
Like it should be true for any development aid, our approach
There is one particular area called Turkana in the North of Kenya
old for school found employment in local business opportunities
journey of rapid development. But it leaves the question of how
was always to listen first and find a solution after - constructively
near the Ethiopian and South Sudanese Border where together with
we helped to create, such as a factory exporting fish and other
international people like me fit in there. Let us forget about
together. Especially in an environment where development is still
dome organizations, we started such an experiment. It takes effort.
animal products to the cities.
“saving” people, and even the word “empowerment” has a
beginning, one should not approach the community with a ready-
condescending taste when it comes from abroad.
baked solution or even a single type of intervention.
During the last ten years, I spent twice as much time on the
Even though the village is located in a semi-desert, it now has its
ground in Turkana as in my home Bavaria. It began with a meet-
water system, supporting greenhouse-based agriculture - making
The term “cooperation” has a better ring to it sounds better,
If you approach a village community and offer to build a school,
ing under a tree with the few locals of a village that knew how to
it primarily self-sustained. Loropio has a privately operated so-
but it is often reduced to interactions between governments
they will gladly agree. But what about the promise of a better life
read and write and create their own school.
lar-based electric grid and even waste separation and recycling.
or companies, while it should be between people. In my case,
that should come with a school education? Is it not also our re-
Its most considerable pride is the “Startup Lions” ICT Campus
I was lucky to find the right people on the ground who shaped
sponsibility, that when we sent a child to school for many years,
At that time, the villages only consisted of straw build houses
with a Digital Training Center and Coworking space. Local youth
my work for the last ten years.
to make sure that there are opportunities for further education
with no infrastructure whatsoever, and people relied completely
with the right talent learn to provide digital creative services as
and eventually a job?
on international food aid. We started by providing them with
freelancers for customers in the entire world. The idea for Startup
It began with a foundation connected to my family, named
construction materials for building schoolrooms, and a year later,
Lions was sparked by the above-mentioned local teacher,
“Hilfsverein Nymphenburg” (after a fancy castle in Bavaria),
When looking for solutions, I find it helpful to look at the situation
they had 200 students. Especially one of the teachers was a
who is now co-founder and director. This particular project
an excellent vehicle to start supporting local groups in Kenya
holistically. In my experience, it is much more fruitful to build up
youth activist, and he convinced me that the young people
was even awarded the “Google Impact Challenge Award” for
to realize their dreams. Some of these groups began with
a partnership with one community to develop everything, from
in the area had incredible potential.
best African NGO.
90 91

Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Kenyan Cofounder with local Govenor
Typical meeting under Tree in Turkana
Of course, it took some considerable resources to realize all this,
and several organizations were involved in funding the progress
of this location. But essential for the success of all these projects
were the same people, some I had met initially under that tree.
But it was not only them. The success was also based on international
exchange directly between people. For the ICT Campus
project, we had more than 50 skilled volunteers from 20 to 60
years of age within the last years. They came out of professions
from carpenters to web designers to network system administrators.
All were more than happy to invest their time as volunteers
and transfer their specific skills. If you also happen to catch the
same Africa Virus as I did, do not be discouraged by adverse
reports or the idea that outsiders should not interfere. There is
Startup Lions ICT Building
a lot to be done in this continent! Find people there you can work
with - not by saving them, but by engaging them on equal level,
person-to-person, and find out what you can do together!
Photos: Learning Lions
Prince Ludwig was born in 1982 and is the oldest son of
Princess Beatrix and Prince Luitpold of Bavaria. He grew
up at Kaltenberg Castle together with his four siblings. He
studied law at the University of Göttingen, focusing on
international public law and human rights. Prince Ludwig
assumed a number of representative and honorary roles
by request of HRH Duke Franz of Bavaria. Beside other
roles he has been a member of the board of the Foundation
Hilfsverein Nymphenburg since 2011 and is especially
responsible for projects in Africa. In 2014 he founded the
charitable organizations “Learning Lions” and “Start up
Lions” in Kenya, together with several partners. Both foundations
are exclusively funded by donations. Since 2019
he has been organizing the so called “Löwenmarsch” or
March of the Lions from Kaltenberg to Neuschwanstein,
counting a distance of approximately 100 km. Prince
Ludwig participates regularly in this march with other enthusiasts.
The returns are donated to the Learning Lions.
ICT building is opened by architect Francis Kere
92 93

STANLEY JOHNSON
HOW I BECAME
AN ENVIRNOMENTALST
I grew up on a 500-acre farm in the heart of Exmoor National
Park. My father had served during the War as a pilot with RAF
Coastal Command. He had been based at Chivenor, near
Barnstaple in North Devon. When he was ‘demobbed’ after the
war he returned to a job he hated in London. My older brother
and I went as boarders to a prep-school in Devon and once a
year, during the summer, my parents would drive down from
Surrey to visit us for Sports Day.
How glad I am that they did! They usually stayed in a pub in
nearby Bampton. One evening my father met a farmer in the bar
who told him that his farm was for sale “over on the moor” and
why didn’t my father take a look?
My father did not need much persuading. We moved to Exmoor
in 1951. It was a place, then as now, of spectacular beauty and
– seventy years later - I still live there today. The river Exe runs
through the farm, deer roam the hills, owls hunt at nightfall.
So, when people ask me: when did I first become interested in
the ‘environment’, I have a ready answer: “An Exmoor childhood!”
Of course, there is more to it than that. In my ‘gap year’ (between
school and university), I travelled through Europe (France, Italy,
Greece), Asia (Turkey) and South America (Brazil, Bolivia, and
Peru). At Oxford, during the second ‘Long Vacation’, I rode a
motorcycle on Marco Polo’s route to Xanadu (as it then was, now
Beijing). We went through Iran and Pakistan into Afghanistan but
did not in the end make it all the way to China.
Back in 1961, China was pretty much out of bounds and we did
not have visas. We thought we might be able to ‘wing it’, but by
the time we reached Afghanistan snow had fallen on the High
Pamirs and the road the Wakhan Corridor - which was the route
Marco Polo took - was blocked.
So, I diverted to India, riding on the now much-battered BSA
500 cc twin-cylinder Shooting Star through India, finally returning
to the UK by boat, plus motorcycle, from Bombay.
I suppose you could say that those early foreign adventures
added an explicit international element to the instinctive environmentalism
I had absorbed when growing up on Exmoor. I had, for
example, travelled widely in Brazil during my ‘gap year’, including
visiting the new capital Brasilia at a time when it was literally
being carved out of the Amazon rainforest.
I am sure that international experience helped land me my first
serious job, with the World Bank in Washington DC in the mid-
1960s.
Looking back, I see the end of the 1960s and the early 1970s as
an early high point of the environmental movement. The Russians
had been first into space, then in 1969 the US had landed a man
on the moon. We had the first view of Planet Earth from space.
People increasingly realized what a mess we were making of it.
I returned from the US to the UK in 1969 to work as the first
environmental officer of the Conservative Research Department.
The Conservatives were in opposition but their Leader, Edward
Heath, won the June 1970 election. The Conservative Manifesto
for that election had some strong language about the environment.
Though the Labour Government had created a ‘Central
Unit for the Control of Pollution’, the Conservatives - when they
took over in June 1970 - established a full-scale Department of
the Environment, responsible also for Transport, Planning and
Public Works.
Stanley with baby harp seal, Newfoundland, Canada 1982
Biking for Tigers, India 2019
As far as I was concerned, the UK’s entry on January 1, 1973
into what was then the European Economic Community (EEC)
was entirely providential. The ‘Six’ became the ‘Nine’. At the
same time, the EEC – because of the decisions of the European
Council held in Paris in October 1972 - acquired a brand-new
policy: the environment.
I arrived in Brussels in April 1973 as part of the vanguard of
‘Brits’, all of them enthusiastic, as I was, about the merger, wholly
or partially, of national and European policies. I was doubly
enthusiastic, because I was lucky enough to be nominated as
the first Head of the European Commission’s newly established
Prevention of Pollution Division.
I regard the twelve years I spent in Brussels as a senior civil
servant and the five years I spent in the European Parliament
as an MEP and Vice-Chairman of the Parliament’s Environment
Committee as the solid rock on which my subsequent career as
an ‘environmentalist’ has been based.
The book I wrote with Guy Corcelle called the Environmental
Policy of the European Communities runs into several hundred
pages and details the vast raft of legislation: air, waste, water,
noise, chemicals, nature protection etc which the EU has
adopted over the years. I was lucky enough to be involved in
the drafting of many of those measures.
94 95

I believe that the EU has over the last almost fifty years played
republished now for obvious topical reasons. My non-fiction
a constructive and important role not just as far as European
books also cover mostly environmental themes.
environmental policy is concerned, but on the international stage
as well. For example, though the United States led the way in
One of my personal non-fiction favourites is a book which is
dealing with the depletion of the ozone layer by aerosols, the EU
a collection of articles I have written over the years about wild
has certainly been in the vanguard as far as climate change is
animals in wild places. It is called “Where the Wild Things Were”.
concerned.
Gorillas, elephants, tigers, whales, Antarctica, the Galapagos –
you will find them either in this or in another book I co-wrote with
The challenge now, of course, more than five years after the 2015
Robert Vagg, sadly recently deceased, called Survival – Saving
Paris Agreement, is to make sure the world is on track. To keep
Endangered Migratory Species.
global warming below the +1.5°C level, reaching global net zero
carbon emissions on or before 2050 is crucial. We are certainly
Which brings me to the other great topic, beside climate change,
not on the right track now. Current emissions will take us over
namely the loss of biodiversity.
+3°C, rather keeping us below +1.5°C.
Though the eyes of the world are (rightly) focussed on COP 26
So, COP 26 in Glasgow has a tremendous task. It must seek
and Glasgow, we must not forget that there is another great
global agreement or consensus on the 2050 goal of Global
Carbon Net Zero (which will be difficult or impossible to if China –
international conference in the offing: COP 15, which is the
fifteenth meeting of the parties to the Convention of Biological
Afghanistan 1961
Bombay, India 1961
alongside the US one of the main carbon emitters – continues on
Diversity (CBD), due to be held in Kunming, China at a date still
its present path). And it is just as important for COP 26 to agree
to be confirmed.
2030 or 2035 goals and the programmes to achieve them.
Given the crucial role nature-based solutions will play in tackling
People talk about ‘tweaking’ the current batch of NDCs (Nation-
climate change, it is perfectly obvious that avoiding deforest-
ally Determined Contributions) at or before Glasgow. But ‘tweak-
ation, protecting mangroves, rewilding and rewooding of large
ing’ is too polite a word. The UK has just announced a pledge
areas, and ‘blue carbon’ initiatives of various kinds will be vital.
to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 78% by 2035 compared
with 1990 levels and that will mean major changes in transport
The CBD already requires or national programmes of biological
(including aviation), energy, industry, and agriculture,
conservation to be prepared and put into effect by Parties to the
Convention. But the over-arching goals still need to be agreed,
And, realistically, all countries should be factoring in also the car-
the previous set of goals – known as the Aichi targets – having
bon content of their ‘imports’. There is no reason why domestic
expired at the end of 2020.
industries, which may even be more efficient in energy terms
than those of third countries, should be disadvantaged by cheap
One crucial goal, for example, would be a clear commitment
imports. There are some hard negotiations ahead, that’s for sure.
by the international community to “halt and reverse the loss of
COP 26 must, of course, also deal with the finance issue.
biodiversity at the latest by 2030.”
With Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh, Strasbourg, 1970
At UNEP meeting, Nairobi, Kenya 1976
Paris 2015 agreed that developing counties needed and should
I very much hope that the 197 countries who are members of the
receive at least US$ 100 billion a year to deal with Climate
CBD will support this kind of initiative.
Change. That is a bargain, surely, given the existential nature of
the threat we face. Governments do not need to put up all the
I would like to see the UK take the lead in the pre-Kunming
money. I would like to see bankers and financiers from the pri-
negotiations. As far as climate change is concerned, the UK’s
vate sector rise to the challenge. And if they do not, maybe they
negotiating stance has been much helped by the fact that in
can be prodded a little.
our own domestic legislation, the 2008 Climate Change Act, we
have provision for the establishment of legal binding targets. For
Chapeau here to the environmental campaigners who continue
example, the 2050 carbon net zero target is legally binding, as
to keep the flame alight. How come Greta Thunberg still has not
are intermediate targets established determined by the Climate
gotten a Nobel Peace Prize?
Change Committee in accordance with a carbon budget.
Having left the service of the European institutions some time
I very much hope that, as far as biodiversity is concerned, the UK
ago, I have occupied myself writing books, both fiction and
adopts the ‘halt and reverse loss by 2030’ as a legally binding
non-fiction. Some of my novels have an environmental theme.
target and includes that target in the Environment Bill currently
Tap into Amazon and you will find The Virus and The Warming,
being considered by Parliament.
for example, both of those were written some time back, being
With Pope John-Paul II, Rome 1980
With Orangutan, Tanjung Puting National Park Kalimantan, Indonesia 2008
96 97

My six children, left to right - Max, Rachel, Stanley, Jo, Boris and Leo
I am also much hoping that the Prime Minister, who has made
fighting the loss of biodiversity (together with climate change)
one of the two international priorities of the UK government, will
take the opportunity to press ministers on this point. I am sure
Parliament will be behind him.
For Britain to go to Kunming with a ‘biodiversity’ commitment already
in its own domestic national legislation, alongside the legal
climate target, would indeed be something of a diplomatic coup.
All this, of course, is a long way from where it all began, in that
Exmoor valley with all its wonderful landscape and wildlife. Yet,
for me, the link is there. By way of example, at this very moment,
I am fighting to rewild some nearby moorland which tragically got
ploughed and fenced in the eighties.
Development; Survival: Saving Endangered Migratory
Species; The Green Revolution; and World Population and
the United Nations.
He has been awarded the Green Peace Prize; the RSPCA
Richard Martin Award; the RSPB Medal; the WWF Leader of
the Living Planet Award and CC Forum Environmental
Campaigner Lifetime Achievement Award.
He is married and lives in London, and Somerset. He has six
children, including Boris, Prime Minister of the UK.
I tried to stop this forty years ago, but failed, but – having learned
some lessons along the way - I am trying again now. That’s the
name of the game. Never give up. It is never too late. Until it is.
Stanley Johnson is a former MEP and senior civil servant in
the European Commission. He is currently the International
Ambassador of the Conservative Environment Network.
www.cen.uk.com
Exmoor Valley
He is the author of 11 novels, including The Virus, The
Warming and The Commissioner. His non-fiction books include
Antarctica: the last great wilderness; The Earth Summit:
The United Nations Conference on Environment and
98 99

5 TH CC FORUM HELD IN DUBAI
The 5 th iteration of the CC forum “Global Investment in Sustainable
Development” was held in-person in Dubai on March 31 and
April 1, 2021. CC Forum has grown, in a very short time, into a
leading platform where “governments present their innovative
new strategies; where inspirational scientists relay to the world
their revolutionary discoveries; where large corporations and
small companies alike make global announcements, and where
the brightest start-ups connect to the savviest of investors”.
The stated goal of this edition was to explore the challenges,
prospects and business opportunities during and after the
COVID-19 pandemic, which has triggered the worst economic,
social and humanitarian crisis in recent times.
The CC Forum offered a much-needed platform for thought leaders,
practitioners, senior UAE government officials, public figures
and entrepreneurs from across the world to discuss, rethink and
brainstorm out-of-the-box ideas for the benefit of the planet,
humanity and future generations. This is, after all, a critical
year for our planet – with COP26 taking place later this year in
Glasgow, the “world’s last best chance” to avert the worst
environmental consequences derived from climate change.
As Albert Einstein once said, “in the midst of every crisis, lies
great opportunity”. Indeed, this crisis can and should be considered
as a catalyst for rethinking the world’s paradigm and
discuss new ways of investing in sustainability.
To this end, the CC Forum, during two intensive days of discussions,
brainstormed specific pathways to make the post-COVID
recovery period green, digital, inclusive and sustainable – so that
we collectively do not lose sight of the 2030 Sustainable Development
Goals.
The experience of the host country, the United Arab Emirates,
can show us the path forward and be a source of inspiration for
the world. A dynamic hub of innovation and new technologies,
the UAE is putting substantial efforts into integrating the environmental
dimension of sustainable development into post-pandemic
recovery plans. In the words of Mr Qais Al Suwaidi, Director
of the Climate Change Department at the UAE Ministry of
Environment and Climate Change, “Covid-19 should catalyse
the transition towards a resilient and inclusive green economy –
not slow it down”.
Emerging technologies (Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, etc)
can also play a very central role in helping humanity resolve the
existential issues we face today.
The second day of the forum was held under the theme “The
Middle East: The Big Reset”. The CC Forum was one of the
very first high-level in-person conferences organised following
the historical signature of the Abraham Accords in Washington
last August which marked the public normalization of relations
between Israel and a number of Arab countries including the
United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. One of the focal points of day
2 of the CC forum was to explore the burgeoning investment opportunities
between the UAE and Israel deriving from this historic
political accord. The existing synergies between UAE’s dynamic
economy, and Israel’s innovative high-tech culture, can be now
fully pursued in the form, for example, of partnership and joint
ventures in the field of technology and through various sectoral
applications (such as agriculture).
Other thematic panels were devoted to the energy transition
the transition from fossil fuels to green energy (including green
hydrogen); sustainable urbanization, women empowerment,
and the role of special economic zones in fast-tracking regional
cooperation, generate employment and support knowledge
transfer.
The next two editions of CC Forum will take place this year
under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco on
6-7 July in Monaco back to back with the Cannes film festival
and in October in London less than a few weeks before COP26.
These will further build on the theme of Investment in Sustainable
Development in order to keep the momentum alive as we
approach the crucial Glasgow summit.
Alberto Turkstra, Project Manager, Diplomatic World Institute
Photo: Diplomatic World
What was clear from the different panel discussions is that for
investors, entrepreneurs and multinational companies alike, the
relentless search for profit has to be complemented with a wider
agenda which includes environmental and social concerns, and
a strong focus on Corporate Social Responsibility.
100 101

HOW WAS THE CONCEPT OF CC FORUM
CONCEIVED?
The concept of CC Forum was born quite some time ago, but
only materialised in 2018 with our first London edition subtitled
“Economy. Environment. Ethics”. After attending and speaking
at a number of conferences around the world, I have gradually
come to believe that there is a sheer need for a new event. One
that would be new in its concept and approach, and so, CC
Forum was conceived.
CC FORUM
MOVING TOWARDS A BETTER WORLD
The mission and the ethos of CC Forum (where CC stands for
Climate Change) is convening the world’s movers and shakers,
global transformers who are united in their zeal to make the
world a better place. Getting them together for regular brainstorming
sessions on some of the existential issues mankind
is facing today including climate change, the current state of
macroeconomy, government strategies, fighting poverty, social
inclusion, philanthropy etc. In other words, CC Forum is a global
platform, a club, if you want, for leading impact investors. As
such we have often been accused of elitism, we have even
been tagged as a “green Davos” due to a dense proportion of
high-net-worth individuals attending. I personally see nothing
wrong about the forum being referred to as ‘elitist’ as long as it
helps crack down or at least approach cracking down on global
problems. One should not forget that CC Forum is essentially an
investment forum focusing on sustainability.
WHAT IS THE SECRET BEHIND CC FORUM’S
SUCCESS?
I do not think this would be up to me to judge. And there is
hardly any secret involved at all. Whatever recognition we may
have achieved, has been due to a combination of critical factors.
First and foremost, the forum’s overall vision as reflected in our
content including carefully chosen topics and cherry-picked
speakers. Secondly, hard collective work including by the team,
the Organising Committee and the Advisory board alike without
whose dedication none of that would have been possible. And
lastly, a bit of sheer luck, as everything should come together at
the right place and at the right time.
Max Studennikoff, Founder and CEO of CC Forum
“Investment in Sustainable Development”
TELL US ABOUT THE EDITIONS OF CC FORUM
WHICH HAVE BEEN HELD UP UNTIL NOW
Only a few months ago, in late September 2020, we held CC
Forum Monaco which was subtitled “Investment in Sustainable
Development” under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II
who has bestowed his gracious presence to the event. The
Monegasque edition also saw our Investors’ gala where the
legendary Maestro Placido Domingo sang.
Prior to that, in October 2019 we held our successful London
edition which saw a two-day conference and a number of networking
events. These included, inter alia, our traditional blacktie
investors’ Gala and a dedicated Reception at the House of
Lords of the British Parliament. We also received a written royal
greeting by HM Queen Elizabeth II which gave us a considerable
moral boost.
WHAT ARE THE KEY FACTORS EVENT ORGANIS-
ERS SHOULD TAKE INTO ACCOUNT WHILE
ORGANISING HIGH PROFILE EVENTS LIKE
CC FORUM?
Creating the content of each edition is a painstakingly careful
process, but also the most exciting. One has to take into account
a whole variety of aspects like the expectations, aspirations,
conceptions and misconceptions of the audience, current state
of economics, modern trends etc. etc
To draw a parallel, it is akin to the craft of a chef who is making a
dish. The recipe has to be observed and all the ingredients have
to come in the right proportions, the dish does not have to be
either two salty or two spicy or too sweet.
HOW HAS THE COVID CRISIS, IN YOUR OPINION,
AFFECTED THE INVESTMENT THINKING?
It is this unprecedented global crisis that can and should be
considered as a catalyst for rethinking the world’s paradigm.
Never in the recent history of mankind have we been able to
see how interconnected and interrelated everything is. Covid19,
like many other viruses, takes its deep origin in the consumerist
approach humanity has, sadly, adopted towards nature. This is
my profound conviction. We should act accordingly and without
delay if we want to preserve our planet for younger generations.
A new type of entrepreneur, a one who would be concerned with
a wider agenda than making profit, has be fostered.
WHAT IS ON THE AGENDA OF CC FORUMS FOR
THE NEAR FUTURE?
We have three in-person editions in 2021 - the UAE, Monaco on
6-7 July (back-to-back with the Cannes film festival) and London
in late October, ahead of COP26. We have been working hard on
making CC Forum the leading investment forum on Sustainability,
an event that would be indispensable on the annual agenda of
any leading impact investor and it is safe to assume that we have
tentatively achieved this objective. Our long-term goals include
further positioning CC Forum as a global platform for companies
to make global announcements, for governments to reveal their
strategies and for the brightest start-ups to connect to the savviest
of investors. This might well take us another 10 years!
102 103

RECENTLY, YOU PARTICIPATED IN THE 5TH
EDITION OF THE CC FORUM IN DUBAI “GLOBAL
INVESTMENT IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT”,
WHERE YOU ACTIVELY PARTICIPATED IN VARI-
OUS PANELS. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE CC
FORUM AND WHAT ARE THE KEY CONCLUSIONS
YOU DREW FROM THE TWO-DAY CONFERENCE?
It was a great pleasure to have been able to participate in the
CC Forum in Dubai. The overall theme of “Global Investment in
Sustainable Development” is extraordinarily relevant in today’s
world. The event brought together major global investment
funds, family offices, senior government officials and other wellknown
public figures to discuss the various ways to develop their
interests in sustainability. The discussion included such topical
subjects as climate change, renewable energy, philanthropy,
impact investment and healthcare.
The event also generated a lot of excitement since it was one of
the very first physical conferences organised this year in Dubai
as we gradually emerge from the COVID pandemic. Furthermore,
it followed CC Forum’s successful previous editions in Monaco in
September 2020 and in London in October 2019.
I was invited to participate in the panel discussion on philanthropy
as a cornerstone of long-term corporate strategies and moderate
the panel discussion on building sustainable supply chains.
Both of these topics were central to the theme of the conference.
Overall, the conference engendered a great deal of interest. The
superb evening events on both of the first two days were excellent.
The possibility of actually meeting face-to-face rather than
on a computer screen was also really appreciated!
TELL US ABOUT THE ROLE OF PHILANTHROPY
TODAY. HOW CAN PHILANTHROPY BECOME A
CORNERSTONE OF LONG-TERM CORPORATE
STRATEGIES, IN THE GCC REGION AND BEYOND?
Modern philanthropy today involves making an effort to drive
social change and involves finding long-term solutions. In other
words, it focuses on measurable impact and sustainability.
For instance, donations should seek to eliminate the causes of
homelessness in a measurable way rather than simply delivering
temporary relief.
DAVID GIBSON-MOORE,
PRESIDENT OF GULF ANALYTICA
Corporate philanthropy often takes the form of financial contributions,
but it can also include time and resources. When a
business participates in corporate philanthropy, it is projecting
a positive public image for itself, enhancing its relationships
with consumers, and overall creating a positive work environment
for its employees.
Within the UAE context, it is also important to realise that the
giving of alms or zakat is one of the sacred five pillars of Islam of
Islam. Practically all local institutions and family businesses are
actively involved in philanthropic charitable donations of one kind
or another in the form of zakat or sadaqah.
In addition to the public and private foundations or awqaf set up
for philanthropic purposes there are also many government entities
actively responsible for social, charitable and humanitarian
work in the UAE. These include for instance the Ministry of
Community Development, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International
Cooperation, Zakat Fund, and the Islamic Affairs and
Charitable Activities Department. So taken together philanthropy
in the form of charitable giving is really part of the DNA of the
UAE and, more widely, in the region.
For outside observers, the metamorphosis that Dubai has
undergone in recent times is nothing short of incredible, from its
humble beginnings as a small fishing village to securing a seat
in the global stage as a financial, business and innovation hub.
Mr Gibson-Moore, you have been based in the region for many
decades. Tell us how you have seen Dubai evolve during your
time there.
CC Forum Dubai 2021
The recent development of Dubai has indeed been extraordinary,
perhaps unprecedented in modern times.
80 years ago, Dubai was a small village on the Arabian Gulf coast
situated at the edge of the desert and inhabited by a few people
who worked in pearl farming or fishing. It was not until a chance
discovery of offshore oil in 1966 that fortunes began to change
for Dubai and the surrounding region. In addition, thanks particularly
due to its proximity to Iran, Dubai started to evolve into an
important trade route to the Persian Gulf.
Driven by the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE, a
policy of rapidly diversifying its economy has been pursued. He
summed up the ambition of his people in a quote: “Dubai will
never settle for anything less than first place.” This has led in the
last 25 years to the many major developments that have transformed
Dubai. Dubai is now a global business hub, with many
companies locating offices here due to tax breaks, custom duty
benefits and no restrictions of foreign ownership. The country
has developed into a major banking and financial hub. Medical,
communications, aviation and educational centres have been
developed.
In 2002, reforms allowed foreigners to own real estate and this
led to a boom in construction which lasts until this day. The city
trails only New York and Shanghai for the number of buildings
taller than 150 meters. From having the world’s tallest building to
man-made islands in the shape of a world map, the UAE’s most
populous city has never shied away from ambitious construction
projects. Thanks to its warm climate and easy accessibility from
Europe and Asia, Dubai has become a luxury tourist destination
popular year-round with a flourishing supporting hospitality
scene. And today, oil accounts for a minuscule 1% of Dubai’s
GDP.
Looking to the future, Dubai is also developing as a major hub
for start-ups. Artificial Intelligence and block chain technologies
are being encouraged. A digital entrepreneurial ecosystem will
stimulate the broader local economy by attracting talented, ambitious
people with Dubai becoming a locus of creative thinking
and business activity.
YOU ARE ALSO AN ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL. WHAT CAUSES DOES
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT AND WHAT
CONCRETE HUMANITARIAN PROJECTS ARE
BEING UNDERTAKEN BOTH WITHIN AND OUTSIDE
THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES?
I first became a member of Rotary back in the 1980s when I was
in Bahrain setting up the regional office of Chase Manhattan
David Gibson-Moore, President of Gulf Analytica
Bank. However, in the last few years I have become very much
more involved in the work of the Rotary Foundation and recently
became a member of the Arch Klumph Trustee Circle. This is a
group of Rotarians comprising the highest level of the Foundation’s
donors.
One of the most important requirements for individual Rotary
clubs is to raise funds in different ways to support the global activities
of the Rotary Foundation. Moreover, locally, Rotary clubs
are also dedicated to community and vocational service projects.
Currently at Rotary we have seven areas of focus: promoting
peace, improving health through disease prevention and treatment,
improving the health of mothers and children, water and
sanitation, education, economic development, and supporting
the environment.
Worth adding that the UAE, in terms of dollars per capita, has
been the largest donor of official development aid relative to its
gross national income in the world for the last five consecutive
years. So, as Rotarians we are very pleased to be able to work
in this most supportive environment.
104 105

Today the UAE is the capital of tolerance. Actually, we have 205
nationalities living together in harmony, peace, and co-working
every day. In 2020 the world was under a shock due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. The most outstanding country that acted
looking forward from my humble point of view has been the
United Arab Emirates. In 2020 they kept on working for a better
future. For example:
• On 20 July 2020, the UAE sent a mission to Mars with the
name of “Hope”.
• DIFCC, Dubai International Financial Centre, has increased the
number of venture capitals by 100% and had its best financial
result.
DR. NAGEL, YOU ARE A RENOWNED INVESTOR,
A LOBBYIST AND A PHILANTHROPIST. WHAT LED
YOU TO ESTABLISH AND CHAIR THE ABRAHAMIC
BUSINESS CIRCLE? GIVE US AN IDEA OF THE
MISSION, VISION AND MAIN ACTIVITIES OF THE
ORGANISATION.
I founded the Abrahamic Business Circle to promote economic
diplomacy, to create a global business group, as I consider business
collaboration an essential strategy for maintaining a solid
and permanent peace. Our main idea is to build large business
bridges from the Middle East and, of course, globally.
The Circle aspires to establish a business platform as well as
platform for dialogue and exchange of business related views.
The Circle wants to stimulate trade and deals among the nations
and business leaders involved. Last, The Circle also reaches out
to involve other regions like Asia, Africa, Europe and USA since
they will truly benefit from peace and prosperity not only in the
Middle East region but also from investments in this region.
LAST YEAR WE WITNESSED THE SIGNATURE
OF THE HISTORIC ABRAHAM ACCORDS IN
DR. RAPHAEL NAGEL
Founder and Chairman
of The Abrahamic Business Circle
WASHINGTON WHICH MARKED THE PUBLIC
NORMALIZATION OF RELATIONS BETWEEN
ISRAEL AND A NUMBER OF ARAB COUNTRIES
INCLUDING THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE)
AND BAHRAIN. HOW WILL THIS POLITICAL
ACCORD BRING ABOUT ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL
BENEFITS TO THE MIDDLE EAST REGION AND
HOW CAN UAE AND ISRAEL COOPERATE WITH
EACH OTHER TO ENSURE ECONOMIC PROSPERI-
TY IN THE WIDER REGION?
In the first instance, this political accord promotes economic
diplomacy and tolerance and will create impact investment and
many benefits for the middle east. Tourism will be indeed, one of
the most benefited sectors, due to the number of visitors to the
UAE from Israel. The next level of cooperation to be implemented
is in the agricultural and health sectors, respectively.
On the other hand, we also see big projects to run as the
Abrahamic Business Circle. So far, we have been able to connect
business opportunities in food security, greenhouse technology,
healthcare, etc. Israel’s biggest export is technology and when
you have a lot of technology, there are a lot of things that you
can collaborate on with the Gulf states, and especially the UAE.
One of the big things we can see a lot of corporations for sure
is in food security, which we want to help the country secure it,
as well as healthcare. For example, in Israel, for breast cancer,
two injections can freeze the cells, without the need for surgery.
This is among one of the many outstanding technologies that
we believe can help people in the region and create a very bright
future for all of us.
YOU ARE ALSO A PROLIFIC WRITER. IN 2017
YOU PUBLISHED TURBOCAPITALISM: THE MAS-
TERS OF BANKRUPTCY, A WORK IN WHICH YOU
PROPOSE A CHANGE TO ACHIEVE A SYSTEM
THAT MANAGES TO CIVILIZE CAPITALISM FROM
PERSONAL ETHICS. YOUR MOST RECENT BOOK
IS TITLED RIDING THE WILD TIGER – COVID-19,
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES. GIVE US A
PREVIEW OF THE BOOK, WHY YOU DECIDED TO
WRITE AND WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT
PIECES OF ADVICE CONTAINED IN IT?
The current COVID-19 crisis is challenging leaders across the
world, demanding from them to face a series of conundrums and
cumbersome situations that not have a simple answer.
This book provides in-depth information about the troubled world
that stands in front of us, and those leaders and advise us on
how to overcome the several hurdles by making the right decision
at the right time. Is a contemporary setting of my views and
thoughts on overcoming unknown challenges like COVID-19.
The most important pieces of advice are for entrepreneurs and
those who firmly believe that the amazing world we live in must
have to be constantly rediscovered.
RECENTLY, YOU PARTICIPATED IN THE 5TH
EDITION OF THE CC FORUM IN DUBAI “GLOBAL
INVESTMENT IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT”,
WHERE YOU DELIVERED A KEYNOTE LECTURE
ON “EDUCATION AS A KEY FACTOR FOR SUSTAIN-
ABLE DEVELOPMENT”. HOW DO YOU SEE EDUCA-
TION AS THE “GREAT ENABLER” THAT WILL
ALLOW MANY OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOP-
MENT GOALS (SDGS) TO BE ACHIEVED?
In order to break the cycle of poverty, hunger, and inequality,
we must invest in education and understand it as the critical
factor for sustainable development. There are around 260 million
children who don’t go to primary or secondary school worldwide,
meaning that they won’t have the most basic skills necessary
for jobs in the future, taking away their opportunities in this
world. The education process begins with good basic formation,
given that there is the key that opens, in the future, the doors of
success, that is, the achievement of human development and the
balanced economic growth of nations.
106 107

MARIA HALL
INTERCULTURAL EXPERT AND
MIDDLE EASTERN PROTOCOL ADVISOR
Living and Working in the UAE
One Day Programme
Important topics are explored, such as cultural values, norms,
• Understand how values, behaviours, and attitudes, both your
customs, protocol, and etiquette in relation to daily life and
own and those of the UAE, are revealed in daily life and work.
business.
• Gain practical knowledge of important business and social
protocol, etiquette, and faux pas.
CULTURE INFLUENCES
• Learn to manage the unique cultural adjustment if new
to the Emirates
• Develop methods to adapt your communication and work
• Work patterns
styles for enhanced effectiveness and productivity in
• Socialization
various business contexts (teams, meetings, projects, etc.)
• Gender roles within workplaces in multi-cultural environments
• Devise individual plans for applying cross-cultural concepts,
• Behaviour and attitudes
tools, and strategies to current and future living issues and
• Concepts of right and wrong
business interactions.
• Ways of handling disagreements
• Interactions between managers and subordinates
• Communication and meeting styles
• Importance of religion in the region
THE BENEFITS OF CROSS CULTURAL TRAINING
Dubai - amazing city center skyline with luxury skyscrapers, United Arab Emirates
Photo: Shutterstock
• It helps people overcome bias and prejudice, which can
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
otherwise stop them making good decisions.
• It improves communication skills and softer skills such as
emotional intelligence which ensure individuals maximise
• Important social customs and regional etiquette
• Country briefing: history, people, politics, religion,
• Typical “classic” business challenges of working
across cultures (multiculturalism)
• Increase awareness of your own cultural assumptions and
outcomes during meetings and avoid confusion or offense .
education system, holidays, etc.
• Practice identifying and managing cultural differences through
behaviours and their impact will have when living
• It increases trust between people, which helps break down
• Becoming culturally self-aware: explore your own cultural
examining real-life. business and social scenarios
and working in UAE.
barriers, seal business deals and get things done.
assumptions and behaviours.
• Business basics: Introductions and greetings, etiquette, and
• It drives sales by helping business people understand a new
• Practical insights such as safety, health, food, housing,
protocol, hosting and guesting, gift-giving, gender roles, etc.
market and appreciate how to articulate their
transportation, schools, making friends, etc.
• Key business topics: Meetings and agendas, projects, and
pitch in a way that will appeal to their prospects
• Compare the differences in values between your home country
deadlines, making reports and presentations, managing,
• It promotes synergy and drives trusting team relationships
and the UAE.
influencing, motivating, marketing and sales, negotiations,
which frees people to concentrate on the more important
• Overcoming language barriers: A brief look at your new
team building, conflict resolution, virtual communications, etc.
matters, rather than becoming embroiled in team disputes or
country’s languages, important common phrases.
• Learn and practice methods to adapt your work and
difficulties.
• Learn about non-verbal communication and key gestures,
communication styles for effectiveness and productivity in
facial and physical expressions, and how to manage
various business contexts (teams, meetings, projects, etc.)
COURSE OUTLINE
PART ONE: LIVING IN UAE
• Expectations and adjustment to life and work in Dubai
and the UAE
• Overcoming the stresses of culture shock.
• Socializing and building relationships in the UAE Emiratis
and fellow expatriates.
contextual communication differences.
PART TWO: WORKING
• Work objectives in Dubai, UAE, and region
• Mapping cultural business behaviour.
• Assessment of personal work preferences and comparison
with UAE’s work preferences
• Create an implementable Plan for applying what you
have learned in specific business situations.
Maria Hall
Intercultural Expert and
Middle Eastern Protocol Advisor
maria.hall@diplomatic-world-institute.com
108 109

DISCOVER AND EXPERIENCE
THE FUTURE TODAY!
Explore the future at Living Tomorrow
Living Tomorrow has been an innovation think tank for the
past 25 years. During that period, we have gathered over 400
companies to think about the future and create it. Now, the 7th
campus is being built near Brussels (Vilvoorde), right next to the
spot where it all started. But what makes Living Tomorrow unique
is not only the ability to facilitate all those companies in thinking
about a possible future, but delivering a hands-on/real-life experience
of that future to all its visitors in a demonstrative platform.
In the new Living Tomorrow Innovation Campus the future will
be uncovered through five main themes: Smart Buildings &
Infrastructure, Smart Mobility & Logistics, Smart Cities & Industry,
Smart Health & Care and Smart Home and Out-of-home.
The campus will open by the end of 2022, but you can already
get a sneak preview in the updated visitor center at the start of
September 2021.
We are exploring the use of Virtual Reality to give people real
world experiences of future developments. You can enjoy a virtual
passenger drone flight from Brussels Airport to the Living
Tomorrow Campus, landing on top of the future building. A real-life
drone flight is predicted to be possible in 10 years time.
A walk through a futuristic smart city is also on the VR menu.
You can learn about energy efficiency, water management and
put your head in the clouds to see how we harvest the wind.
Living Tomorrow not only explores the Mobility and Smart City
themes in these experiences, but also the future of Virtual Reality
itself. How can we bring VR-experiences to a new level with 4D
haptic features?
on a CASE journey. An innovative exploration of Smart Mobility
through Connected, Autonomous, Shared & Services and
Electric. All these words are invigorating in themselves, but
imagine a world where they are put together.
In the near future maybe, we won’t need to think about modes
of transportation, but we will only keep in mind our destinations.
Connected and autonomous solutions could be provided to us
in the blink of an eye, wherever and whenever we want it.
Or can we experience different alternate realities simultaneously,
switching between all possible, improbable or even unimaginable
scenarios at the same time? This opens up a new way of inspiring
people. All those innovative steps forward can be discovered
when the new campus opens in two years time!
Because two years still seems like a long time, we are already
exploring some of the themes further. Mercedes Benz takes us
110 111

Following intuitive interfaces that guide us between our current
place and our desired destination.
information is stored and simulations can predict the most sustainable
way to service and operate a building.
Mixed reality shows us the way: from our smart mobile device to
the Mercedes MBUX interface, or to a passenger drone or hyperloop.
In a mobility as a service shared network we are always
informed, always up to date and connected. The efficiency of
such a mobility network paired with the electrification of energy
sources, prepares us for a new and emission-free future that
takes care of our planet.
We also have partners who bring the digital world to the construction
site. Xella and Recticel use augmented reality glasses
to project BIM models on a construction site. In this way, the
digital and the real world are mixed together, becoming a hybrid
experience. It enables us to work faster, with more precision and
less chance for errors, which in turn means more productivity
and less costs.
Climate and sustainable solutions are also present in the new
Construction Lab. This experience takes you through the most
innovative solutions in Smart Buildings of today and tomorrow.
Evolutions in computing technology have brought the design of
buildings and infrastructure from the drawing board to the digital
world. But Living Tomorrow believes drawing with the help of a
computer is not the final destination.
Different Belgian and European companies are exploring the
benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM). Nowadays, this
is mostly a three-dimensional drawing tool used for coordination,
but it has the potential of being much more. Schüco, renowned
manufacturer of windows, doors and facades, is connecting the
real world to BIM models through sensors. They not only make
it possible to digitally control a building, but also to actively
monitor different aspects so a building can communicate with
its users and inhabitants. As Living Tomorrow, we predict that
we will enter a future of digital twins of buildings where all
A big contribution to a sustainable environment will be material
innovation. Different manufacturers are focusing on CO2-emission
reduction. Holcim produces cement with a zero-carbon footprint.
Bricks are made through processes that actively absorb
carbon to bind raw materials together. These are necessary steps
to reduce global warming. A large portion of CO2-emissions
comes from manufacturing materials and goods. If we want to
go to net zero, we have to innovate in this sector. Recycling and
circular concepts are also very valuable. Every ton of reused material
is a win. Nowadays, recycled paint is available and panels
for furniture can be made out of old linoleum flooring.
Living Tomorrow brings you a world of new technologies, but
also concepts and ideas that can change our world today and
tomorrow. Because we believe that innovation, forward thinking
and taking initiative are the only way in which problems can be
solved and progress to a better future is made.
www.livingtomorrow.com
112 113

MONACO
STREAMING FILM FESTIVAL
The Principality of Monaco will roll out the red carpet for the pioneering
new Monaco Streaming Film Festival this summer, drawing
industry heavyweights for a dynamic “festival-meets-summit”
experience and an awards ceremony to celebrate the best in the
streaming industry.
The inaugural edition of the Monaco Streaming Film Festival
(MCSFF) will take place from 3rd to 6th July at the Grimaldi
Forum, just ahead of the Cannes Film Festival.
The event was co-founded by Netflix Founding VP Mitch Lowe
and, with over 200 streaming platforms available to viewers
globally, it will play an important role in bringing together content
creators and talent, media and technology innovators in an industry
that has hit overdrive with the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We believe the industry has blossomed during the pandemic
and offers the public access to exciting international content at
a time when they need the world of entertainment and choice to
come to them through their streaming platforms,” Tony Davis,
Co-Founder of MCSFF. “We aim to create an accessible and
inclusive event that will support all content creators wishing to
produce and showcase their work.”
REG GRUNDY INNOVATION AWARD
The Monaco Streaming Film Festival and Grundy Media have
joined forces to recognize the highest tier of outstanding contributors
in film and global media with the introduction of the Reg
Grundy Innovation Award.
The Monaco Streaming Film Festival, a hybrid festival and platform
empowering today’s finest film content creators, and Grundy
Media, an iconic brand in global entertainment, have come
together with a shared belief that bold vision with precise execution
can forever enhance the media industry to move people on a
global scale.
The Reg Grundy Innovation Award recognizes the preeminent tier
of ground-breaking Media and Technological Industry Leaders
who, like Reg Grundy, have boldly and brilliantly expanded the
Global Entertainment Industry with unparalleled impact across all
platforms.
The four-day hybrid festival includes premieres, screenings, an
awards night, VIP receptions, a marketplace and a conference
featuring talks by key personalities including Apple Co-Founder
Steve Wozniak.
Organisers will leverage streaming technology to power the
event, opening it to a global audience with a significant portion
of virtual-only content and remote panels. The Grimaldi Forum’s
new LED TV “wall” and broadcast studio will play a key part in
helping to deliver the technology-driven festival.
The MCSFF is being organised in conjunction with major
Hollywood streaming studios, the Princess Grace Foundation
and the Global Environment Movement Association (GEMA)
Foundation.
“It is important to show and bring to light the elements of our
environment which are of great concern as well as all the solutions
and efforts around solving them,” GEMA Co-Founder and
Managing Partner Christian Moore. “The MCSFF will play an
important role in highlighting film makers and documentarians
who bring these subjects to light.”
Reg Grundy
Photo: Monaco Streaming Film Festival
Reg Grundy
Photo: Monaco Streaming Film Festival
114 115

HOW MUCH WILL SUSTAINABILITY FEATURE
AT THE INAUGURAL EDITION?
We hope to attract multiple filmmakers and and streaming platforms
to emulate the ever-changing world we’re living in and our
aim is to bring as much light on the subject of sustainability.
ABOUT THE MONACO STREAMING FILM FESTIVAL
Joy Chambers-Grundy and Reg Grundy Photo: Monaco Streaming Film Festival
Entrants can be individuals or teams who have made historic
contributions to both expand and elevate worldwide entertainment
on an unprecedented scale. Recipients will embody the type of
vision, drive, character, spirit and success that made Reg Grundy
a legendary media mogul.
Mrs. Joy Chambers-Grundy said: “I am delighted to partner with
the Monaco Streaming Film Festival to launch this esteemed
legacy to my extraordinary husband Reg Grundy. Reg’s masterful
ability to always push beyond limits, and to turn unimaginable
dreams into reality was truly exceptional. Reg’s innovative
philosophy, ‘be local to be global’, amassed for him international
success, opened the door for all others to follow, and saw him
pursue his life-long passion of entertaining people in every country
around the globe.
The first of its kind, Monaco Streaming Film Festival (MCSFF) will
take its first steps on the red carpet and stream everything on
its programme worldwide. The Monaco Streaming Film Festival,
in conjunction with The Princess Grace Foundation, The White
Feather Foundation and The GEMA Foundation, is an innovative
hybrid “Festival-meets-Summit” experience, celebrating the
streaming industry’s content, makers, creators and talent and
providing film and content production industry inside know-how -
and leveraging streaming technology to power the Festival.
Streaming industry leaders and talent will arrive at the glamorous
principality of Monaco, the Festival’s location base, to partake in
four dynamic days of premieres, a Gala Awards night, VIP receptions,
a marketplace, and conferences. Technologically driven,
global in scale, the Monaco Streaming Film Festival extends beyond
Monaco’s borders, opening its doors to a global audience
via our live streaming platform, which will also feature all of the
virtual-only content, conferences, marketplace, premieres and
panels for our internationally located audiences.
CHRISTIAN MOORE FOR DIPLOMATIC WORLD:
WHY WAS IT IMPORTANT FOR THE GEMA
FOUNDATION TO GET INVOLVED IN THE MCSFF?
I would turn the question the other way around, the importance
to show and bring to light the elements of our environment which
are of great concern and all the solutions and efforts that surround
solving them Is of the greatest importance. Being able to
highlight film makers/documentarians and bringing these subjects
to light is the importance of the MCSFF to our world.
HOW WILL IT BE CONTRIBUTING TO THE EVENT
IN REAL TERMS?
GEMA and the GEM Platform will bring and highlight environmental
filmmakers to the MCSFF, bringing further exposure to
their work and highlighting all the works across the streaming
platforms globally.
Christian Moore
Photo: Christian Moore
116

IRIS MARIA ALEXIS VAN DER VEKEN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
RESPONSIBLE JEWELLERY COUNCIL
The time is now - this is the decade of action
Sustainability needs to be at the heart of
every business strategy.
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals
are our Roadmap to humanity - we have a shared
responsibility to leave no one behind
EVERYONE TALKS ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY. HOW
DO YOU DEFINE A SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN?
A truly sustainable supply chain is grounded in collective responsibility
and a shared social contract between the various actors
involved. In our world today, supply chains are global and often
complex, multi-tiered and interconnected. And as the world
evolves, what it means to be responsible and sustainable also
changes.
No aspect of responsible production can be viewed in isolation
- human rights, labour conditions, anti-corruption measures
and environmental impact are all inextricably linked. Materials,
people, distribution, creative processes and retail – the interfaces
between these components of the supply chain, require a
collective effort.
The need for factoring in the true cost of doing business is now
paramount – in other words, we can no longer ignore the cost to
the planet. And of course, all of this has to make economic sense
to ensure that we aren’t just paying lip service to these values. To
know is to show- data are critical to understand materiality and
progress.
On a personal note my definition of sustainability is that it is all
about human dignity-how does your company and product positively
impact the lives of people and communities on the ground.
YOU HAVE BEEN LEADING THE RESPONSIBLE
JEWELLERY COUNCIL FOR OVER 2 YEARS NOW.
WHEN WAS THE RESPONSIBLE JEWELLERY
COUNCIL FIRST CREATED AND WHY?
There are some core values that are (or should be) entirely
non-negotiable. These include a commitment to human rights
and environmentally-friendly sourcing practices, transparency
and a set of strong leadership business values.
The RJC was established in 2005 by a group of 14 industry-leading
organisations including Signet, De Beers Group, Tiffany,
Cartier, ABN Amro, Rosy Blue and a few associations. Our mission
is to foster a responsible global supply chain that promotes
trust in the global jewellery and watch industry. We believe in
transformational change through collective effort.
Iris Maria Alexis Van der Veken
Photo: Responsible Jewellery Council
We play a leadership role in supporting companies to integratie
sustainability into their core business strategy. This is done
primarily through the certification process of the RJC Code of
Practices. Our members start a sustainability journey through the
implementation of a robust standard called the Code of Practices
(which includes Human Rights, Labour Rights, Health and Safety,
Product Integrity and the Environment).
Third party accredited auditors review the management practices
and certification is granted if the organisation is compliant with
the Code.
SINCE THEN, HOW DO YOU THINK THE JEWEL-
LERY INDUSTRY HAS CHANGED IN TERMS OF
SUSTAINABILITY?
We are proud of how the industry has advanced. Yes of course
more needs to be done as integrating sustainability into your
business strategy is process of continuous improvement.
Sustainability is also a shared responsibility. Governments,
private sector , the academic world and NGOs have a key role to
play. No one can do this alone. You need a smart mix of policy
and standards to advance responsible business practices.
We see companies working hard to understand their supply
chain not only to mitigate risks but really focusing on how they
can achieve real positive impact. Our Code of Practices has
always evolved to be fit for purpose to support companies
on this journey.
Over the last 15 years, the RJC has established a truly
global community of leaders on responsible business practices,
launched our first base-line Code of Practices in 2009,
118 119

increased our standards portfolio with a Chain of Custody model
and a three-times revised Code of Practices. Our latest version
launched at the OECD in Paris in April 2019 is aligned with the
WHY ARE THE 17 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
GOALS SO IMPORTANT?
OECD due diligence guidance, the UN Guiding Principles on
The 17 SDGs are the sustainability agenda for the world agreed
Business and Human rights and has an increased scope into
by 193 coutries. It is about People, Prosperity, Planet, Peace and
coloured stones and silver. Our membership has grown from 14
Partnerships. It is an excellent framework for any company to
founding members in 2005 to over 1400 of which 60% are small
use to develop its sustainability strategy. The RJC has also used
enterprises spread over 70 countries. We are proud to have over
this framework to develop a Roadmap for the Global Jewellery
100 companies from Belgium. Despite COVID we have seen
and Watch Industry.
continued growth this year -this is a testament of the CEO’s
commitment.
We are focusing on SDG 5 Gender Equality, SDG 8 Decent Labour,
SDG 12 Responsible Production, SDG 13 Climate and SDG
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE BIGGEST ACHIEV-
MENTS FROM BRANDS IN MAKING THE JEWEL-
LERY INDUSTRY MORE SUSTAINABLE?
17 Partnerships (RJC-2030-Roadmap_narrative_Dec-2020_v1.3_
CONSULTATION-DRAFT.pdf (responsiblejewellery.com)We have
launched a partnership with the United Nations Global Compact
in NY focusing on education and training for smaller enterprises.
Many of our brands members such as Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel,
We have recently set up an expert SDG Taskforce to develop
Chopard, Hermes, IWC Schaffhausen, Piaget, Pomellato,Van
reporting metrics based on international reporting standards to
Cleef & Arpels, Jaeger-LeCoultre are at the vanguard of sustaina-
help our companies report on progress. It takes CEO leadership
ble development in the jewellery and watch industry. Some of the
commitment and SDG Advocates to drive this 2030 agenda
most famous jewellery brands were also founding RJC members.
across supply chains. As a Belgian citizen I am proud that Her
Brands increasingly understand that their reputation is built on
Majesty the Queen of Belgium is a UN SDG Ambassador and
integrity, the quality of their products, and their impact on com-
that she is great advocate on Children’s Rights and the role of
munities. Hence, they lead by example.
business.
They have played a key role in embarking on the sustainability
journey in their supply chains. This is creating a ripple effect
on the broader industry. The wider industry looks to the major
brands for inspiration and direction. We see how they are at the
WHY ARE YOU SUCH A STRONG ADVOCATE ON
THIS TOPIC OF GENDER EQUALITY?
forefront on topics such as women’s empowerment, circular
This is a topic close to my heart - Sustainable Development Goal
economy and Environment, Social and Governance (ESG).
5 gender equality. Gender equality is presented as a necessary
milestone to achieving all 17 Sustainable Development Goals
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES THE
INDUSTRY STILL FACES TODAY?
(SDGs), it is considered a multiplier. We should not forget in our
industry that women drive 90% of the jewellery demand globally.
The reality is that we are not doing enough. In fact, according to
the World Economic Forum’s 2020 Global Gender Gap report, it
We face the same challenges as many other industries. As the
will take 257 years to close the economic gender gap.
world evolves and crises happen such as COVID 19 disruption of
supply chains brings new modus operandi to the table of CEOs.
The progress has been far too slow. So we cannot wait another
Any organisation will always have to be alert and adapt to a new
century. If we want to achieve something really impactful on
and constantly evolving business model. It is about being agile
and resilient. This is the era of consumer confidence and trust is
gender equality and women’s rights, every day must be International
Women’s Day. Historically, women are especially vulnerable
Iris Maria Alexis Van der Veken
Photo: Responsible Jewellery Council
the new currency. Millenials and Gen Z are looking for Purpose.
during crises. COVID-19 is no different and already domestic
They want a company not just to tell but to show how they con-
violence, child marriage, is on the rise. With schools and child-
WOMEN, World Diamond Council, UNGC, WJA, NDC, BSR, JA,
edge sharing and action on the ground. I strongly believe that
tribute to society.
care services closed, women and girls are taking on most of
Plumb Club, Black in Jewelry Coalition, GIT, just to name a few
putting women and girls at the heart of COVID-19 responses will
household and caregiving responsibilities.
key stakeholders, and we have organised several regional mul-
accelerate progress towards a more inclusive recovery and help
We work in an industry of beauty and emotions, so it is especially
ti-stakeholder dialogues in India, Africa, Thailand and USA.
build more equal and sustainable economies.
important that the story behind the beauty is a positive story that
From our industry perspective ASM needs our urgent attention.
impacts lives of people and communities. Stakeholder engage-
That is why we have started the Generation Equality Round
We invite you to join the discussion, for information on how to
We invite you to join the discussion, for information on how to do
ment needs to continue to advance as we believe partnerships
Tables in partnership with CIBJO. I have had the privilege to work
do so please visit https://www.responsiblejewellery.com/action/
so please visit https://www.responsiblejewellery.com/action/part-
are critical to advance the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
closely with many inspiring women and men the past weeks to
partnerships/rjc-on-gender-equality/. The time is now. We look
nerships/rjc-on-gender-equality/.
Human Rights Due Diligence and Climate are priority topics.
start our Generation Equality Dialogue. We are engaging with UN
forward to supporting the industry at large in education-knowl-
120 121

WHAT ARE THE MOST CONCRETE ACTIONS THAT
COMPANIES CAN TAKE TO SUPPORT WOMEN’S
RIGHTS?
Leadership commitment and top-down focus is crucial. It is
ability which is something that was unheard of at the beginning
of my career. However, there were also times of struggle to find
my balance, especially when it came to negotiating challenging
personal and tough family circumstances with an international
career. I have had my fair share of sexism and bias – whether
of future industry, including the development of creativity, collaboration
and innovation – these skills are not the single domain of
men or women. As leaders we, have the greatest responsibility
and opportunity to step up and take action. Addressing underlying
unhelpful stereotypes is an important step to making real
IRIS MARIA ALEXIS VAN DER VEKEN
important to build a culture of inclusion- a safe container where
people can develop and grow.
Start with inviting your chief executive officer, or equivalent, to
sign the CEO Statement of Support for the Women Empowerment
Principles (https://www.weps.org/join). The Statement encourages
business leaders to use the following seven Principles
as guideposts for actions that advance and empower women
in the workplace, marketplace and community. It also asks you
to communicate progress through sex-disaggregated data and
other benchmarks.
• Principle 1: Establish high-level corporate leadership for
gender equality
• Principle 2: Treat all women and men fairly at work – respect
and support human rights and non-discrimination
• Principle 3: Ensure the health, safety and well-being of
all women and men workers
• Principle 4: Promote education, training and professional
development for women
• Principle 5: Implement enterprise development, supply chain
and marketing practices that empower women
• Principle 6: Promote equality through community initiatives and
advocacy
• Principle 7: Measure and publicly report on progress to
achieve gender equality
conscious or unconscious. I have learned that it is important to
focus on clear communication and feedback with respect.
HAS BEING A WOMAN BEEN A POSITIVE/AN AD-
VANTAGE... FROM ANY PERSPECTIVE? WHAT IS
NEEDED FOR AN ORGANISATION TO ADDRESS
GENDER EQUALITY?
As female leaders we have our own traits, especially soft skills.
We should utilise these qualities such as perseverance, empathy,
humility and passion. Women in the leadership are sometimes
faced with unfair stereotypes, especially when they are characterised
as being too emotional or too cooperative. The good
news is that now we have momentum with more females joining
the C-suite. For me, it is not about being a woman or a man, it’s
about who you are, your value system, and how you engage with
people. All leaders have different styles and that’s great - it’s that
combination which makes successful teams.
While we can’t say that all men behave a certain way and all
women behave a certain way, we can say that systemic bias
exists and that this preconditioning has led to boys and girls
being raised to fulfil certain gender-related stereotypes. As a
whole, our education systems need to adapt to meet the needs
progress towards achieving gender parity, but it requires new
styles of business leadership. Education is key. It will remain
the biggest challenge to engage leaders in changing their own
leadership style, which is often influenced by unconscious biases
and outdated norms.
We all need to shift mindsets and focus on building a true culture
of inclusion. As we emerge from COVID-19 into the next normal,
we also need to have a heightened awareness of our physical
and psychological well-being. Focusing on vulnerability in an
organisation’s most important assets – its employees – has taken
on an added and renewed significance. A recent McKinsey and
Company study talks about how to create a culture of psychological
safety. A company’s intangible assets, which include
human capital and culture, are now estimated to comprise on
average 52% of a company’s market value.
The time is now to focus . This is a call for action. “I am requesting
that leaders in all industries take the time to reflect on
the roles they have played and those that they can play going
forward — be it mentoring, knowledge sharing, or being connectors
in the marketplace for our future leaders. I am grateful for
the brilliant and brave women and men in my life who, with their
wisdom, courage and resilience, paved the way for women like
me to dream and to have the privilege to strive for the opportunities
that have made us who we are. And with that privilege
Born in Aalst 7 Dec 1970
Proud mother of one son Alexander who she describes as
a“ Creative beautiful mind in search of his destiny”
Background: Law, International Relations , Sustainability
and Public Affairs
Chaired the United Nations Global Compact Network
Belgium
Career: Technology, Fashion, Diamonds and Jewellery,
Government
Worked in 14 countries, lived in Washington DC, UAE and
now in London as the first woman leading the Responsible
Jewellery Council www.responsiblejewellery.com
Was honoured by Didier Reynders, former Deputy
Prime-Minister and Minister Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade
and European Affairs, for initiating the United Nations
Global Compact Network Belgium and for her work on
promoting corporate social responsibility in Belgium and
abroad with a focus on human rights including children’s
rights and the role of business.
Passion: Sustainability with a focus on ESG, Women
Rights, Children’s Rights and the role of business
Sports: Runner – ran NY Marathon for UNICEF
Special Olympics Volunteer for over 30 years
Board Member of ISEAL ( the global authority of standards
across all industries) and Diamonds Do Good
At the same time, down the supply chains, providing engage-
comes great responsibility. The responsibility to continue to pave
ment and support to women in artisanal and small-scale mining
the path for the generations of women to come.”
can have a vast impact on the lives of so many women.
We in the jewellery industry have a unique opportunity to improve
the lives and livelihoods of women in so many parts of the world,
which in turn will strengthen and transform our supply chains and
businesses.
DO YOU THINK THAT BEING A WOMAN HAS HELD
YOU BACK IN ANY STAGE OF YOUR CAREER?
HOW? WHEN WAS THAT?
I have had the privilege of being raised by parents that fully
empowered me. They instilled in me the confidence to pursue
my goals, and to speak up. I think that’s also a lesson that we,
as women, can give to one another, it is OK to speak up. Today,
women still feel a need to prove themselves more than their male
counterparts, and it’s something that needs to change. Now that
I am 50, I do feel more fearless, and I will not accept any bias or
unacceptable behaviour from anyone. I also show more vulner-
Kristina Engels, Iris Maria Alexis Van der Veken and Barbara Dietrich
Photo: Diplomatic World
122 123

RAYA ABU GULAL
HAVE YOU DRAWN PROFESSIONAL INSPIRATION
FROM OTHER WOMEN? TELL US ABOUT SOME-
ONE WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU.
events supported by International Law firms. During those events
we debated with our members, sponsors and stakeholders the
role of law and economic empowerment. Also, the role of women
lawyers in the MENA region and economic empowerment of
The world is full of inspiring women and female role models that
women through legal reforms.
have great influence in inspiring other women professionally. I got
inspired and still today get inspired by many female role models
who make a difference in society. However, what inspired me the
most are the powerful Arab women. By the age of 17, I started
to read and researched about the history of Muslims and Arab
IS THE ROLE OF LAW CRUCIAL IN ORDER FOR
WOMEN TO BE EMPOWERED?
women. My first inspiration was drawn by Khadija bint Khwaylid,
No, laws are established by precedent. Precedent is accepted
prophet Muhammad’s wife. She was a leader of the Quraysh
by logic. What is crucial that the logic and justification of women
tribe that ruled Mecca and was powerful business woman. To me
empowerment is correctly understood, convened and applied.
her story was an exceptional one.
This will inevitably transcend into law.
Khadijah, along with other women in the history of Islam, con-
Having supported laws that do not discriminate against women
veys an image of Muslim women that is totally different from
is an important step to achieve greater gender equality and eco-
what read nowadays in the media.
nomic opportunities. But laws on their own are not enough for
women to be empowered. The biggest challenge is for women to
Another female figure that inspired me was Dame Zaha Hadid, an
have the knowledge about their rights and how are these rights
Iraqi-British architect, she was recognized a major international
being implemented in practice.
figure in architecture of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, she
reshaped the world of architecture. Those women made things
happen, changed lives, created differences, created jobs, took
risk and overcome challenges. I admire the women who came
before our generation, without their struggles, we would have
been little empowered today as women.
WOMEN’S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT IS THE
SMART THING TO DO. WOULD YOU AGREE WITH
THIS STATEMENT?
We are aware of the recent benefits through various research that
WHAT MADE YOU ESTABLISH THE WOMEN
LAWYERS GROUP MIDDLE EAST? WHAT ARE
THE ORGANIZATION’S GOALS?
including women in the economy is a good business case. Employers
that have included women in their workforce have gained
variety of benefits. Countries that have worked well on closing
the employment gender gap have higher per capita income and
greater international competitiveness.
For the past 10 years I have been living in the UAE and covering
regional work. I have worked with many lawyers, amongst
According to a McKinsey Global Institute study, closing the
those groups, many great female lawyers. The two founders and
gender gaps in labour-force participation rates, part-time versus
I discovered there was direct need for women lawyer’s support
network in our region. To create initiatives and enhance professional
development of women lawyers or inspiring lawyers in the
Middle East.
full-time work and the composition of employment would add
12-25% to global GDP by 2025.
Also, adding women in the economy does not only close the
It is worthwile to understand the argument and the logic behind
this view. My view is somewhat different.
WHY DO WE NEED MORE WOMEN IN
LEADERSHIP?
employment gender gap, but helps gender equality, a country’s
I believe, men and women have equally an important role to play
We have to be very objective in the contribution of women as
Our goals are to bring female lawyers together from different
development and most important poverty eradication. So yes,
in achieving gender equality and promoting women empower-
leaders in society. I do not believe that women should become
parts of the Arab world and strengthen links amongst them, to
I strongly agree with the statement raised above.
ment. In fact, men should always participate and be part of those
leaders to fill the numbers or to meet the suggested quotas.
attract female in the region to pursue career in law, to undertake
initiatives as this is a shared responsibility in building a viable
studies, research, dialogues regarding women lawyers in the
region and achieving equality, rights and opportunities.
Since the group’s establishment, we held successful international
THERE IS A VIEW THAT MEN SHOULD BE
EXCLUDED FROM WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
INITIATIVES. WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON THIS?
society. It is always good to start home first, by engaging male
figures at the family and household level followed by engagement
of men at the community level.
I do believe women have a genuine and unique impact on our
society and the economy. In various situations the ability of
women leaders can turn economies and societies around. We do
not have to look very far for examples and the positive examples
124 125

outweigh the negative ones. Also, having more women in leadership
breaks down culture barriers and proofing what women can
achieve.
ARE WOMEN SUITED TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN
RESOLVING WORLD CONFLICTS?
Firstly, we have real life examples that women had an impact on
resolving conflicts, we have an existing experience to go from,
but they are only few, mainly because of women’s absence from
the decision-making processes. Also, we do not see enough
number of women in the international relations field.
Women are important agents to promote reconciliation and peace
even under very difficult and traumatic situations. Prime example
of that today is Nadia Murad, an Iraqi Nobel Peace Prize winner.
A tribute
to René Magritte
created by
Jan De Cock
Secondly, the whole debate around women’s empowerment is
a potential theme around which conflict dialogue can happen.
States in my opinion are likely to achieve peace post conflicts
when more women are invited to the negotiation table. Women
may succeed as negotiators in resolving conflicts because
of strong qualities of intuition which may be helpful in under-
Key stakeholders in our society are not sufficiently incentivised to
standing the drivers and dynamics of their counterparts on their
support women empowerment. The starting point is to restruc-
negotiation table.
ture and improve the underlying discourse on women’s empowerment.
Namely, the cost and benefit to society (by implication
ON DIPLOMACY: IF EMPATHY AND COMPROMISE
ARE IMPORTANT IN DIPLOMACY, ARE WOMAN
GOOD AND/OR ( BETTER ) FOR DIPLOMACY?
the economy), the reasons and the vision.
We need to figure out and convey exactly why women’s empowerment
makes a better world for men as well as women.
In my view, diplomacy is an art and a science. It takes a very well
Marco Alba
developed individual to excel in diplomacy. The demands and
the skills required go beyond gender. Having said this, women
do have exceptional qualities which make us very well suited as
diplomats. We are emotionally intelligent, open to negotiation
and know how to multitask. Empathy comes very naturally for
us. These are just some of the things which make for excellent
diplomat.
Raya Abu Gulal, born in Baghdad, grew up between the
Netherlands and the UK and is educated in both countries.
Raya is currently running her own legal consultancy
firm specialising in the Middle East. Prior to setting up
her legal consultancy, Raya worked in two leading
International Law Firms.
FINALLY, IF YOU ARE IN A POLITICAL DECI-
SION-MAKING ROLE WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO
EMPOWER WOMEN?
Universally the discourse on women empowerment is subjective.
In many parts of the world is simply coherent. Why should we
empower women? Although there are many convincing reasons
the discourse is fragmented and misunderstood by both men
and women.
Raya is also active in various women development initiatives
in the MENA region, frequent international speaker
on women empowerment subjects in the MENA region.
She is the founder of the Women Lawyers Group Middle
East. Raya is also a board member of the International
Business Women Group in Abu Dhabi. In 2017, Raya
was the Arab Woman Legal Award winner.
7 - 15
AUGUST
2021
GRAND CASINO KNOKKE
TICKETS & INFO
126
DIPLOMATICWORLD_ad.indd 1 1/06/2021 17:47

SPOTLIGHT
AYUMI MOORE AOKI
CEO AND FOUNDER
WOMEN IN TECH
GLOBAL MOVEMENT
Ayumi Moore Aoki is an entrepreneur and the Founder and
Innovation. A platform for real projects that would drive change
President of Women in Tech, a leading global organisation whose
from a grassroots level and a global community for women, giv-
mission is to achieve gender equality and women’s empower-
ing them a safe place to network and empower each other.
ment in STEM fields. She is a Senator for the World Business
Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) as well as a keynote speaker,
Now that the idea was born, I needed to get it off the ground,
advocate and mother of 4 children.
but did not know where to start. I had no money, no partners, no
support and I knew no influential people. But I had two things:
This is her story.
a DREAM with a PURPOSE. And determination to help empower
women and girls across the world with the necessary skills,
WHAT WAS THE MOMENT THAT SPARKED
EVERYTHING?
opportunities and confidence to succeed in STEM fields. I am
a true believer that Dreams drive Change. Marcia Wieder says
it beautifully: “The difference between a dream and a fantasy is
that if you take actions, a dream can become a reality while a
My first dream that shaped my reality, happened in 1990. I was
a young Brazilian teenager who had just arrived in South-Africa,
still under Apartheid. Discrimination was not only a matter of col-
For me, sisterhood is not just a group of women or girls with
common interests. Sisters share a common dream. Now,
when you have a circle of women sharing a common dream,
I attended an all-women’s dinner in Lisbon during Web Summit,
fantasy is an imaginary idea. The paradox is that if you don’t take
our, but also of gender. Girls had to learn how to clean, cook and
committed to a common purpose, taking action together, well,
November 2017. I had blocked it in my agenda as a gift I was
action, the dream will always be a fantasy.”
sew, while boys would do metal and wood work. The same in
we can change the world.
offering myself and I did not want to miss this dinner for anything
sport. I remember going to watch my friend’s brother row at a
in the world. It was my first trip alone after giving birth to my 4th
child, a boy born in August that same year. I was quite exhausted,
physically and mentally, as I had a difficult pregnancy, having
to stay in bed for 6 months while continuing to drive my digital
regatta on this beautiful river close to Johannesburg. It seemed
like so much fun that I wanted to try it out with my friends. But
we weren’t allowed to. In fact, Rowing was a boy’s sport at our
school. I was deeply disappointed, more than that, I was upset.
THIS IS THE ESSENCE OF WOMEN IN TECH, AND
WE’RE OUT TO MAKE THIS CHANGE.
agency and employees remotely.
My friends and I could not get in a boat because we were girls.
Having said all that, it took me a long time to find my personal
This was not right. Hence, for months we kept on asking our
purpose. I was busy setting myself goals, a dream with a plan of
I remember sitting there and just taking in the energy from these
headmaster if we could make a girls’ rowing team, until he said
action behind it becomes a goal, that I, Ayumi, got lost along the
incredible women, from all over the world. I felt so alive! It felt
yes. We were highly motivated and trained every day to the point
way.
good to meet and connect with other female entrepreneurs
of my hands being full of blisters. We wanted to show that girls
who, like myself, worked in technology. I knew we were largely
could do just as good as boys. And our hard work and persis-
But then one day, technology changed my life.
outnumbered by men, as women represented less than 20% of
tence paid off. That same year our team won the Junior South
the tech industry. But what I did not know is that this gender gap
African Championships!
In 2007, I was living the perfect life as it had been sold to me:
was getting bigger every year, and this for the past 40 years! It
I had a high-powered career as the Coms director of a French
was a turning point for me. I felt a mix of emotions: shock, anger
This experience taught me plenty early on in my life. I was only
group of hotels and casinos, a beautiful house, two amazing chil-
and determination. I had to do something to change things.
15 but it changed the way I dealt with challenges. It showed me
dren, even my dogs looked like they came out of a fairy tale. But
the importance of being a motor of hard work and of team work.
I was not happy. In fact, I was not living the life I wanted to, I was
I looked for existing initiatives on the topic, but what I found was
It opened my eyes to the importance of taking action and not
suffocating inside it. What was the point of working all day to try
plenty of talk but no action. Many organisations used it as a mar-
being a victim in any situation.
and make people gamble more?
keting asset, offering discount rates on tickets for example, but
no focus was given to solving the underlying problem.
But it was more than that; for the first time I had experienced
I decided to change. Everything: career and husband. I had to
the power of sisterhood. My team mates were my sisters. We
rethink my personal life and my career. What was it that I really
Hence, I decided to create Women in Tech. I imagined it as a
had each other’s back. We trusted each other and we empow-
wanted? Before I thought that it was a selfish question, but I
catalyst for change, focusing in four core areas that are a call to
ered each other.
learned that I had to be filled in order to give.
action: Education, Entrepreneurialism, Social Inclusion and
128 129

Today our community counts 60,000 members in all six continents
with 22 official chapters and hundreds of volunteers. We
work magic every day with very limited resources. Our flagship
programmes include: mentoring, role-model coaching, coding
boot camps and the female founders accelerator. We are on
a mission to empower five million women and girls by 2030,
meeting 5 SDG’s: Goal 4 on quality education, Goal 5 on gender
equality, Goal 8 on decent work and economic growth and Goal
10 on reduced inequalities.
It was the most difficult period in my life until now. I broke up my
family, it tore me apart. It felt as if I had switched on an auto pilot
for survival mode. I had to find my purpose in life otherwise I was
going to completely fade away, like a candle with no more wax.
My dream was to travel, to spend more time with my children,
to do something creative and to be independent. How did I start
to live my dreams and act? I learned how to code by myself so
that I could build websites, I worked on digital campaigns and I
even built small apps for social media gaming. With that came
the realisation that these digital skills gave me the freedom I was
looking for: being financially independent and the ability to make
my own choices.
It is so true what Ginni Rometty says: “Growth and comfort never
come together”. We grow mostly when we face a challenge. I had
a ten-year intense journey where I was constantly learning and
exploring. In fact, only after those ten years was I able to find my
core, my essence. Being true to myself and keeping this integrity
in all areas of my life.
When I was in Web Summit 2017, I shifted my calling. I was no
longer asking myself what I wanted for my life, but I was questioning
how I wanted the world to be. What I was committed to
doing about it. This was the moment that sparked everything.
TELL US ABOUT WOMEN IN TECH
Women in Tech started with a reality I could not accept: underrepresentation
and discrimination of women in STEM fields. For
me, remaining passive would have meant either accepting the
fact or endorsing a victim’s role. I believe that the ultimate act of
integrity is action.
The vision was to create a global organisation based on the
culture of trust; a safe place for women to learn, share and grow
as well as being a platform that implements real projects on the
ground.
The beginning was very difficult though, and it still is. When I created
Women in Tech, I thought that we would easily find partners
to sponsor our activities as we were doing such precious and
impactful work, but the reality was very different.
I remember the very first event I organised in Lisbon 2018, the
Women in Tech Global Awards. The evening was a beautiful gala
ceremony, highlighting and honouring remarkable women and
their achievements. Although it had a superb line-up in a beautiful
location, I found absolutely no partners. I had to put in all my
savings and do a personal loan to cover for the costs. I even sold
Women in Tech t-shirts at the entrance of the Web Summit, with
my one- year old son in a kangaroo baby carrier.
But these challenges built my resilience and taught me discernment,
anchoring my feet deep in the ground. Money may come
or go, the same with superficial relationships, but having integrity
in all that we do, ensures that our promise as an organisation is
impeccable and ultimately attracts the right people and partners.
Women in Tech is a team effort. I am blessed to have met some
extraordinary women that are now like family, and who are the
driving force of our movement. My deepest gratitude and recognition
go to Nadia Mannell, Marisa Monteiro Borsboom, Lori
Rodriguez, Anna Makinen, Elena Kolevska, Claudia Mendes,
Andrea Sesum, Isabel Velarde, Cara Antoine, Elina Valeeva,
Jessica Alderson, Jennyfer Maisonneuve, Mafunase Malanga,
Melissa Slaymaker, Peace Mitchell, Narisa Chauvidul-Aw,
Romana Ibrahim, Aurelie Beaupel, Lindalia Reis, Ana Lomtadze,
Ivelina Atanasova, Safia Agueni.
Women in Tech has received the high patronage of global leaders
such as Mrs Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, first female President of
Croatia, H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, Ruler of
Sharjah (UAE), Mrs Elisabeth Moreno, Minister of gender equality
in France, Dr Rosa Monteiro, Portuguese Secretary of State for
equality.
Such recognition shows that Women in Tech is a force for Good
and that our contribution impacts the bottom line.
We have launched our own online platform and app and it is
becoming the cornerstone of our community: women-in-tech.net.
Through this platform we foster connections, because we know
the power of sisterhood.
HOW DOES THE FUTURE LOOK?
It looks bright and exciting! In order to achieve our mission of
empowering five million women and girls in tech by 2030, we
have a strategy of expansion to a total of 100 chapters in the
next 2 years. Our experience team, led by our CXO Nadia
Mannell, is in charge of this.
In the near future, we will implement specific programmes in two
focus regions: the Balkans and Africa. Our female accelerator will
educate and train women in the Balkans through online and/or
physical boot camps developing job specific skills in tech: from
web development to engineering, data science or project management.
The focus of the programme is on the low-skilled female
workers & underemployed youth with an emphasis on those
living in rural and underprivileged areas. Skilled talent will remain
in the region through remote job opportunities, contributing to
the local economic growth.
With 4 ambassadors for Portugal at the WIT Global Awards 2019: H.E. Claire Rochecouste, Ambassador of Australia; H.E. Celia Anna Feria,
Ambassador of Philippines; H.E. Lisa Rice Madan Ambassador of Canada and H.E. Florence Mangin Ambassador of France
In Africa, we will focus more on female entrepreneurs, helping
them get investor ready and get funded. On the business side,
I have co-founded the social enterprise HER Digital Academy
with my partner Andrea Sesum. We met on LinkedIn and there
was a strong connection straight away. We are both mothers,
serial entrepreneurs, immigrants and active women advocates.
We also share the same vision: that Education can truly transform
lives, providing the tools for achieving our biggest dreams.
With HER Digital Academy, we want to drive positive and
sustainable change by offering high level education to women
around the world.
The future is looking very exciting and bright!
This interview was conducted by Sasha Lund,
Editor-in-Chief, Diplomatic World
Photos: Ayumi Moore Aoki
The WIT Global Awards 2019
130 131

WE ARE BUILDING BROTHER
AND SISTERHOODS
ARIJIT BHATTACHARYYA
Serial Entrepreneur, Angel Investor, Public Speaker,
Business Matchmaking Expert, Government Advisor, Artist,
Technologist, Author, Community Builder, Game Programmer,
Virtual Reality Specialist, AI Evangelist, Blockchain Specialist,
Globe Trotter, Startup Mentor, Life Coach
Arijit Bhattacharyya is wearing many hats. His LinkedIn pro-
ed my first company called “virtualinfocom” at the age of 17 in
file says he is “Entrepreneur, Angel Investor, Startup Mentor,
the year of 1998. I wanted to create an amazing story biz in the
Technologist, TEDx Speaker”, he is in the “Startup India Award
games industry. In my opinion games is the only one interactive
Committee”. He is an “International Business Developer and
enough to bring cultures and values to the world. That is why I
Government Advisor”, moreover “Board member to Internation-
started a small production house for games, however at this time
al Business and Global Speaker VC”. Among others he is the
there was no market for gaming in India. Then there only was a
founder of the “World Leader Summit” - worldleadersummit.com.
limited number of people in India that understood what gaming is
about. There was no way to bring games to the market…
His career started in the games industry where he already had
quite some impact. He is founder of India’s one of the oldest
game development studio virtualinfocom -
www.virtualinfocom.com
THAT SOUNDS LIKE A CATCH 22 SITUATION.
WHAT DID YOU DO?
But it was fun! I also started exploring the movie and media market
since movies are strong in India. This was in the year 2000,
startup world, investing as well as mentoring. I started building a
startup support structure in my own town and we started doing
Arijit talked to Dieter Brockmeyer, co-founder of the Diplomatic
I started an academy focusing on animation and games. I started
I had developed my first game and started selling it. It was on
events. In 2010 I founded my own investment company and
World Institute and Director Innovation & TIME, about his
with one student, then I had 20 and later 30 and it ended up with
CD for PC and it became very popular.
started to help people to become angel investors.
success and the impact he intends to have on our planet.
5,000 students. I then started to employ them, and we started to
LOOKING AT YOUR CV IT IS HARD TO DETECT THE
RED LINE, YOU ARE SUCCESSFUL IN SO MANY
FIELDS…
develop our first products. When we built the product, I started
to also sell the developing machine for this product, and this
made good money for me. It was a rough period with maybe only
3 hours of sleep during the night.
AT LAST, YOU HARVESTED THE CROP OF YOUR
LONG LASTING INVESTMENT?
Slowly I was building an ecosystem bringing technology and finance
together. In 2014, I finished my master degree in computer
In 2012/13 I was approached by a US company that wanted
to become active in India and asked me to do something
together with them. So I started forming a group to give advice
to newcomers. This all worked fabulously, we had tremendous
growth between 2011 and 2014. All my students became corporate.
To be honest I was a very young teacher for all the commu-
(laughs) Let me try to explain how it was started and how it all
science and met another group of people that wanted to start
nity. Some of my students were significantly older than I. Some
fits together. When I was a kid like in my school days, I was
their own business. I now was in the position to cooperate. Some
were 10 years older than me. I was asked if we can role that
excited about drawing and comics and I was developing my own
of them were graduates and started their own web design
globally. In 2017 we rolled out an entity that was called
comic strips. I developed my own superheroes. The stories were
companies. Together we were building our own small ecosystem.
“Entrepreneursface” to be a fund and a mentor organization.
influenced by ancient legends and mythology. This old lore was
written in Sanskrit, probably one of the oldest languages and I
In 2008, my company had been growing and had become really
I worked quite a bit with European, Asian and US markets.
started to learn it to better understand, and my intent was to do
sizeable and opened three or four offices in different cities, I was
I also was invited to China. A couple of guys told me they
something for my country.
speaking at a conference at a university. One of the students in
could help with the funding. I connected Japan, Taiwan, China
the auditorium raised his hand and asked: “Please could I have
and a couple of other Asian countries to create a VC fund that
This was when I was a kid, I developed comics and superheroes.
some help, some guidance because I am a newcomer and there
started investing. This gave me some experience in creating
Later when I had to start my career, I was meant to become an
is no guide.” I invited him to my office to talk. This my first men-
VC funds, Angel organizations, managing funds working with
engineer or a doctor. I started in economics and mathematics.
toring. It was because of my own passion that I did it that I did
different industries. I created a portfolio of 21 different companies
The reason why I chose this was because I wanted to start my
it because I remembered my own beginning. I, too, didn’t know
in different sectors where I either acted as advisor or investor.
own business in the technology field. While graduating I start-
where to start and where to go. That is how I started into the
132 133

I started two companies in Australia where I was not active
before, I started an investment company with two local partners.
Since everything was connected, I had gaming, tech and media
companies I structured everything here in India.
BUT THIS WAS NOT THE END OF YOUR
ACTIVITIES?
Indeed! I started looking at Africa, and we started exploring new
fields like celebrity management. We work with celebrity actors
that are quite popular already but need more focus from other
parts of the world. Like an actor who is quite popular in India but
has lots of followers also from Germany because our game is
so popular there. All this was formed into a common platform in
December 2020 and is called World Leader Summit to support
all these different groups: actors will get support, CEOs will
get support…, all people from different types of businesses.
It started with 90 participating countries and 120 people. We now
have about 42 country ambassadors and chairpersons. They are
working very closely together with their local ecosystem. That is
the concept. They will enhance the local structure with mentoring
groups and local boards. They will help each other to develop
locally and do interactive business and grow together. We have
a huge community of today over 30,000 subscribers. It’s all pro
bono and to have impact on the world. Sometimes it will be
backed by sponsors, even physical meetings are not possible
now. But we hope once the pandemic is over, we will have
meetings with speakers and investors connecting B2B. Well,
that’s my story!
WELL, THAT IS IMPRESSIVE. IS THERE STILL ANY
VISION LEFT, SOMETHING YOU HAVE NOT YET
ACCOMPLISHED?
(laughs out loud) A lot, a lot… I just started and I feel I need to do
a lot more. If you look at people like Bill Gates or Steve Jobs –
they always have been and are on the move.
WHEN WE ARE LOOKING AT THE CURRENT
PANDEMIC IT BECOMES VERY OBVIOUS THAT
WE CAN’T CONTINUE THE WAY WE DEALT WITH
ISSUES IN THE PAST. WHAT IS YOUR ASSUMPTION
ON THE STATE OF OUR SOCIETY AND WHAT DO
WE NEED TO DO?
Let me talk about global relationship first and then come back
to Covid. There has been a setback a couple of years ago and
recovery is still going on. What people in business need to understand
is that somebody is making money with it? I always follow
the concept to be the one that is making the money.
You make money when you build your consumer base.
Today’s world is not based on saying something and doing
something else. If you say something that means you must do it
and to add something so people have a plus. Now talking about
Covid: Around 100 years back we had another outbreak of a
virus. Humankind is not meant to live in a lockdown. Humankind
is meant to live outside, play in mud, enjoy sun and to be within.
We have forgotten how to laugh. That’s why our immune system
has become really low. Immunity cannot be built by one medicine.
It only can be built by a healthy lifestyle.
When we talk about living with Covid we are talking about a
business cycle. I have seen people upgrading themselves. They
are fine during the pandemic. And this is going to stay. And that’s
my advice to upgrade your life and your business. Covid or no
Covid – it doesn’t matter. If God gives you an opportunity to stay
home, then think about what the reason is for you to stay home.
You probably are getting the option to connect with some person
calling you the very moment to interview you.
This would not have happened if there would not have been
Covid. In normal times you probably would have been too busy
for that. Now you say, hey, we can handshake with each other
and we can grow with each other. We are building brother and
sisterhoods. Accept it and grow with this opportunity.
134 135

ENTREPRENEURSHIP
THE BEST WAY TO COMBAT MR. COVID
For more than a year, the world has been completely disrupted
and paralyzed by a virus nobody at first took seriously. The
globalised pandemic has spread throughout the entire world and
only collective vaccination can overcome it. In the meantime, we
have to appeal to middle-age measures such as quarantine, an
idea rooted in the scientific work of Avicenna (Ibn Sina). Avicenna
was a famous Muslim philosopher in direct descent from his
Greek predecessors, who argued, exactly 1000 years ago, for
controlling “the spread of diseases”.
Indeed, Mr. Covid left almost no region untouched. The impact
on health, employment, finance, trade and business has been
devastating. Economists who hadn’t foreseen this impact were
walking over each other to announce in the media how serious
this previously unseen economic depression would be. Virologists
were pumping up like champions and nobody realised that
they were so numerous. Governments and Central Banks did
what they had to do in the short term: inject money into an economy
on the edge of the abyss. Looking the support in the EU and
US, we are speaking about four trillion dollars or twelve percent
of their GDP. The monetary expansion was about the same volume.
The Post-war Marshall plan, estimated at only 1,5% of the
GDP, pales in comparison to these huge amounts. But sustainable
recovery from the crisis should not come from public money
or from central bank printing machines, but from real entrepreneurs.
One should consider that entrepreneurship is the only
lasting solution. Measuring entrepreneurship and correlating it to
economic growth, we arrive at a correlation coefficient of 52%.
So, without entrepreneurship, there is no sustainable growth.
THERE’S STILL A LONG WAY TO GO
As Hegel says in his Philosophy of Law, we are all children of
our time. And we are all, at least to some extent, Plato’s children.
Plato considered that doing business was not a noble
way to live, so it is not surprising that entrepreneurship was for
so long considered to be the occupation of last resort. Plato
even considered business to be a crime, punishable by a year’s
imprisonment, and in the case of recidivism, two years. Cicero
Rudy Aernoudt
Professor University of Ghent, Belgium
also believed that those in business should be punished. These
FAILURE IS THE BASIS
FOR SUCCESS
CHINESE PROVERB
philosophical considerations explain why setting up a business
has rarely been considered the best choice in life.
No wonder it was long the case in large parts of the world that
becoming an entrepreneur was considered by many to be the
last resort in terms of career choices. The first choice was always
to become a public servant and, if possible, to hold that same
position for life. Such a career involved no risk and offered a
steady, lifelong income, a raft of employment benefits and, above
all, a decent pension. For those for whom this first choice was
unattainable, the second-best solution was to become employed
by a big company. The oil and chemical sector and banks were
long thought of as secure and well-paying employers. Some
consultancy firms even went so far as to attract students by
handing over the keys to a brand-new car when they signed an
employment contract. The opportunity cost for becoming an entrepreneur
is huge. Only when candidates had been unsuccessful
in all of these options, would they consider starting up their own
business. In their adventure, they could rarely count on the support
of their family, friends, banks or government services.
Rudy Aernoudt Professor University of Ghent, Belgium
Therefore, we should applaud all successful entrepreneurs rather
than envying them, as success cannot be achieved without
hard work and struggle: no guts, no glory. Equally, in the case
of failure, a second chance should be given as failure too can
be a worthwhile experience. Too often, failed entrepreneurs are
considered as failed persons and even publicly dishonoured.
A good illustration of this mentality here can be found at the
Piazza Mercanti, the former heart of the city of Milan. At the
centre of the square, we can still find the Pietra dei failli (see
illustration on the cover of the book). Insolvent debtors were
forced to stand naked there so that their insolvency was made
public and known to traders.
Entrepreneurs deserve our respect. Success and failure are too
often presented as two opposite results of entrepreneurship.
However, this dichotomic approach does not correspond to the
economic reality. Indeed, failure is a part of doing business. Very
few entrepreneurs ever experience real success without first
experiencing some failure. Whether it be running a business into
the ground or getting fired from a job, plenty of very successful
entrepreneurs have seen huge failures long before they accomplish
their dreams.
THE CHANGE OF ERA
In the last few decades, we have seen a lot of progress in the
mindset towards entrepreneurship. Successful start-ups are
now often venerated by the media and their leaders invited to
give talks to different audiences. From a policy point of view, the
strong association between entrepreneurship activity and economic
growth is generally recognised. Stimulating entrepreneurship
is now considered by many academics and policymakers as
one of the best ways to create real employment. Thus, policymakers
everywhere in the world are developing and implementing
strategies that nurture and sustain entrepreneurial activity.
Different regions now focus on entrepreneurship as their major
tool for development. Incubators, accelerators and hackathons
are mushrooming. Academics and political leaders in various
countries and from different ideologies, speak of entrepreneurs
and entrepreneurship as being key to boosting economic growth
and creating employment.
But we have to move faster from being a corporate society,
where people are almost set for life in large companies or
public-sector organisations, towards an entrepreneurial society,
where each person becomes a job-maker, instead of a job-taker;
a society where we go back to the roots of economy: namely,
economy as uncertainty. In other words, we should not ask from
the economy what it cannot provide, i.e., certainty, job security
and fully fledged social security.
Beside the economic and recovery rationale, an entrepreneurship
society relies on an overwhelming justification: it encompasses
the basis of a democratic society, where every individual has the
chance to pursue entrepreneurial behaviour and create and grow
their own business. In a free world, the spirit of entrepreneurship
offers the human individual the opportunity to answer their natural
constructive and creative talents and thereby offers society
the opportunity of perpetual progress and growth and above all a
rapid and sustainable way-out of the COVID-19 crisis.
The COVID-crisis should accelerate this switch to a society
where risk-taking is applauded, as entrepreneurs will put the
world back on track. This presupposes efficient enterprise-friendly
administrations, lack of corruption, solid banking systems and
formal and informal venture capital available to entrepreneurs.
In summary, by making the lives of entrepreneurs as easy as
possible, policymakers will realize a sustainable post-COVID-19
recovery. And yes, some entrepreneurs will fail, but that, fraudulence
and bankruptcies aside, is an integral part of the entrepreneurial
parcourse. Failure is the basis for success if we push and
allow entrepreneurs to stand up again. Bankruptcies due to the
COVID-crisis, should be considered as a potential of experienced
entrepreneurs that should have a second chance. Another untapped
potential is female entrepreneurs. By empowering women
entrepreneurs, notably with equal access to financing, we can
encourage female entrepreneurship. We need all hands on deck
in order to realize not an era of change but a change of era.
136 137

BUSINESS ANGELS
WANTED, MORE THAN EVER!
Prof. Rudy Aernoudt
Co-founder of EBAN Senior Senator of WBAIF
There is quasi-scientific unanimity concerning the importance
of Business Angels for the start-up ecosystem. They make the
time, have the money and acquired enterprise-related experience.
These three ingredients mean business angels invest smart
money, mainly at the start-up phase, providing both capital and
hands-on support.
GOVERNMENTS AROUND THE
WORLD HAVE UNDERSTOOD THE
IMPORTANCE OF ANGEL INVESTMENT
FOR BOOSTING THEIR ECONOMIES.
WBAIF
Although business angels are considered wealthy private investors,
on average, they don’t have such deep pockets as venture
capital funds. Their average investment is about USD 80,000 dol-
Business angels are looking for projects managed by high-quality
entrepreneurs. They are more interested in the jockey than in
Photo: Barbara Dietrich
lars, ranging from USD 50,000 to USD 300,000. After their initial
the horse. Besides, company valuations have to be realistic. For
few percent, they find it hard to find interested partners to take
of the screen of a PC. Finally, and unfortunately, the middle-aged
investment, ideally, they need to be replaced by venture capital
finding those opportunities, business angels can hardly organise
over their participation. The exit environment deteriorated sub-
theological discussion of the sex of the angels has been solved:
funds. And that’s where often the shoe pinches. Venture capital-
their own marketing and say publicly how much money they
stantially due to the COVID crisis. A well-functioning follow-on
95% of angels are male. Therefore, we need to exploit the huge,
ist rarely look at funding requests of less than one million Euros.
have available to invest. Not only would this be quite risky, but,
financing venture capital market and efficient stock markets are
and largely untapped, potential of female business angels. It is
Extensive due diligence is too expensive for small amounts.
on top of that, they would be overwhelmed by projects, some
the best guarantee to find a decent exit.
unacceptable that although they represent more than half of the
Moreover, the fund manager rewarded by carried interest has no
more bona-fide than others. Therefore, organisations such as
population, they represent less than 5% of all business angels.
personal interest in losing precious time with small amount fund-
the World Business Angels’ Investment Forum (WBAIF) and the
In relation to the volatility on the markets, this has evidently
Investor pitches events are too often imbedded in the ‘old boys’
ing requests. Venture capitalists are looking for the bigger deals.
development of Business Angel Networks (BANs) in Europe and
increased as well due to the COVID-crisis. That’s why business
networks.
Bands of Angels (BANDs) in the US are crucial.
angels, as explained before, are obliged to set aside capital in
The gap between the business angels’ investment stage and the
venture capital investment stage – often called the small equity
gap – means that many start-ups are blocked in their expan-
Just to give some examples: in Europe, the European Business
Angel Network (EBAN) regroups over 400 business angels’
case the investee runs out of money and is not yet at a phase
to attract formal venture capital. The IMF estimates the liquidity
problems of companies at 2 to 3% of the GDP. We can assume
GLOCALISATION
sion or even go bankrupt. This problem has widened with the
networks representing 35,000 business angels investing
that post-COVID markets might become more resilient.
The COVID-crisis has up-graded the local dimension. This is
COVID-19 crisis. In consequence, business angels investing in
EUR 800 million per annum in 3,600 companies. The North
not at all an anti-globalisation attitude but a preference of local
start-ups anticipate this wider gap, and so reserve part of their
American Angel Capital Association (ACA) represents 14,000
This “setting aside” worsens the fourth, and last major, obstacle,
consumption and local production where possible. By the same
investment capital in case they have to assure the next financial
Angel investors and 275 Angel groups. The oldest Band of
namely the availability of funds. If business angels, generally not
philosophy business angels could play a major role, as they are
round. This is sound management, of course, but implies that it
Angels is the Silicon Valley Band, founded in 1994, representing
having deep pockets (unlike venture capital funds), then have to
excellent investors close to home. Globally inspired they prefer
could get harder for new starters to find business angels’ money.
165 business angels who have invested in 400 companies with
set aside half of their money as a buffer for next-round financing,
local investment. They are anticipating the post-COVID glocalisa-
And that is exactly what we need to avoid if we aim to accelerat-
82 successful Mergers and Acquisitions and 16 Initial Public
this decreases proportionally their investment-capacity. There-
tion – globalisation with a local dimension – wave.
ing recovery post-COVID.
Offerings (first stock quotation) on their palmaris. The Dubai
fore, we need to promote syndication, meaning that business
Angel Investors, to give an example from the Middle East,
angels co-invest with other informal investors thereby increasing
The COVID-crisis shows more than ever that we need to promote
OBSTACLES TO BUSINESS ANGEL INVESTMENT
regroups 100 like-minded informal investors. All this is of course
only the visible part of the business angel market. These networks
permit starters to present their start-up and the business
their investment capacity. In order to do so, business angels
have to find occasions to meet each other.
business angels. They are a main vector to develop the local dimension
and they are needed to cope with the small equity gap.
They have to bridge the start-ups until the moment that they are
Having a closer look at business angels, as surveys during
plans to these networks and hence are a solution to cope with
One of the ways to do this is to set up business angel acade-
big enough to require substantial funds and hence become at-
the COVID pandemic have shown, the biggest obstacles they
the above-described information asymmetry problem.
mies, where business angels meet and discuss concrete topics
tractive for venture capital funds. As this gap has widened during
encounter to investment are identifying opportunities, finding a
such as valuation issues or shareholders agreement. Or sim-
the COVID-crisis, the best way to assure that start-ups survive
potential exit, the volatility of the markets and the availability of
Concerning the second obstacle, if the business angel has no
ply gathering of business angels by organising business angel
the COVID-provoked liquidity trap and can develop afterwards, is
own funding. If we can cope with these four obstacles, business
exit perspective, he or she will hesitate to step in. Studies show
summits, such as the previous Monaco business angels’ summit
to stimulate business angel investment. When the business angel
angels can play an even more important role post-COVID,
that many business angels are stuck in the middle. If the com-
or the annual European business angels’ summit. Indeed, as it is
arrives, the bankruptcy demon disappears. More than ever busi-
as they are already doing. Let’s have a closer look.
pany in which they invested is successful, they are diluted after
about money, there needs to be trust, and trust is best created
ness angels are in conformity with what their epithet suggest:
subsequent financial rounds. Left with a participation of only a
by looking into the eyes and, if possible, without intermediation
angels for the recovery.
138 139

ZOË HARRIES
Senior FDI & Special Economic Zones Advisor
Project Director, World FZO CEO, Impact Zones
A recent project in Kenya, was providing strategic advice on
developing Konza Technopolis’ value proposition. Konza SMART
SEZ, is a key flagship project of Kenya’s Vision 2030 economic
development portfolio, 2020, with focus on advancing ICT, life
sciences and manufacturing in the country. Kenya aims to transform
into a newly industrialized ‘middle-income country providing
a high-quality life to all its citizens by the year 2030’.
With a background in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Special
dynamic markets offer great potential for growth. SEZs play a key
The sustainable development agenda increasingly drives MNEs’
Economic Zones (SEZ) Advisory, Zoë Harries supports govern-
role in value chains to accelerate value creation and create jobs.
strategic decisions and operations, which should be reflected in
ments, multilateral organizations and SEZs in accelerating sus-
the value proposition that SEZs market to investors. SEZs also
tainable economic growth through SEZ development, investment
attraction and trade promotion. Zoë also provides cross-border
expansion and market entry services to companies. Zoë’s is
committed to achieving the SDGs all by building sustainable
SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES - A GLOBAL
INITIATIVE FOR LOCAL PROSPERITY
contribute to SDGs through promoting socially and environmentally
responsible industrialization within the zones themselves, as
well as by demonstrating what is possible to the rest of the country.
Impact investment is transitioning from niche to mainstream.
global value chains. Her mission is to mobilize the public and pri-
UNCTAD has counted over 5,400 Special Economic Zones in
A growing number of investors are integrating ESG factors into
vate sector to achieve the SDGs. She is a keynote speaker and
over 156 countries globally, particularly in developing countries.
their investment decision making to enhance performance and
lecturer on topics such as FDI Trends, Special Economic Zones,
SEZs play a major role in global trade and economic develop-
mitigate risk. Climate change has a strong influence on the oper-
Global Value Chains and Sustainability (SDGs) as Competitive-
ment. In developing countries, an estimated 40% of trade in
ational policies and practices of MNEs.
ness Advantage. Born in South Africa, based in Dubai, Zoë is a
goods is conducted through SEZs, putting them at the nexus
mother of four young grownups, a son and three daughters. She
has practiced yoga and Ayurveda more than 20 years. Yoga and
meditation fuel her energy and wellbeing, allowing her to do the
job she is passionate about: creating prosperity for all.
of trade and investment policies and sustainable economic
development. Events like COVID-19 or economic crises point to
the need for more sustainable and diverse economies. SEZs are
becoming increasingly popular especially in developing nations,
HOW CAN SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES ADVANCE
THE BLUE ECONOMY?
approach is required and international cooperation between
governments, not-for-profit organizations, multilateral develop-
as a key instrument to promote trade and investment, export
Seventy-one percent of the Earth’s surface is ocean, and billions
ment banks and the financial sector. More governments need to
Besides running her boutique cross-border trade and investment
diversification, stronger integration into global value chains, and
of people depend on the oceans for their livelihoods. Mari-
recognize the value of the blue economy and provide the political
advisory firm Impact Zones, Zoë heads the Advisory Division at
increased private sector activity.
time transport remains an essential part of international trade
will needed to attract investment, while putting sustainability and
The World Free Zones Organization (World FZO). World FZO is a
as over 90% is carried by the seas, and about 40% of global
preservation at its center.
global non-profit free zones’ association, bringing together free
SEZs are geographically delimited areas within which govern-
trade is channeled through special economic zones. Significant
zones and stakeholders to promote their positive impacts by pro-
ments facilitate industrial activities through fiscal and regulatory
contributions of marine and freshwater ecosystems include food
A well-managed ocean can deliver enhanced economic devel-
viding guidance, knowledge and services to enhance free zones’
incentives and infrastructure support. SEZs are designed as
security, nutrition and health, livelihoods, mitigation of climate
opment, social inclusion, and improvement of livelihoods – while
contribution in the economic prosperity and social development
instruments of trade, investment and spatial industrial policy.
change, homes and shelter, trade and sustainable economic
ensuring environmental sustainability. There are new economic
of their host country. World FZO shares its exclusive global free
Companies located in SEZs can benefit from advantages such as
growth. Challenges undermining the blue economy include
opportunities in the greening of shipping, expansion of offshore
zones’ expertise with members and stakeholders through net-
incentives, administrative efficiencies and sector-targeted trade
overfishing, habitat degradation, climate change phenomena,
renewable energy, innovative technologies improving fisheries
working events, webinars, training, publications, certification and
facilities. Countries hosting SEZs attract more FDI and show
unfair trade and ad hoc development. Blue finance, in particular
sustainability, ecotourism, sustainable aquaculture, and the
advisory services.
higher exporting activities. In Africa countries such as Moroc-
blue bonds, have huge potential to help surmount these chal-
development of new types of marine food. Many ocean-using
co, Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa have adopted strong SEZ
lenges. Blue bonds are an innovative ocean financing instrument
industries are expected to show impressive growth this decade,
SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES – CATALYSTS FOR
SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC RECOVERY
programs. The positive effects of SEZs for the local communities
include supply chain and job creation opportunities. The local
company and its suppliers are required to increase its quality,
efficiency and adopt new technologies, enhancing the skills and
whereby funds raised are earmarked exclusively for projects
deemed ocean-friendly. The Seychelles Blue Bond is the first of
its kind, and it aims to create a replicable and scalable model
for other countries/regions interested in innovative finance. The
and there are promising solutions developed by global innovators
and entrepreneurs contributing to driving this growth towards
more sustainable outcomes.
According to UNCTAD’s World Investment Report 2019, the 2030
knowledge of staff.
most obvious “clients” for this type of transaction are Small
The Kenyan Coast is piloting The Kilifi Project, an Eco-Indus-
Agenda to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Island Developing States (SIDS), however it could be attractive to
trial Park spreading over 1370 acres, 70 kilometers North of
provides an opportunity for the development of an entirely new
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the global political, eco-
a number of small states and nations transitioning to a high-in-
Mombasa and will reach Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
type of SEZ. New focus on environmental performance, science
nomic and social challenges, and cities are at the center of this
come category.
and farmers in Kilifi and Tana River Counties. There is abundant
commercialization and regional development. Moving beyond
global crisis. Cities are rethinking their strategies for economic
tropical fruit production for agro-processing and also significant
traditional trade labor intensive manufacturing activities new
types of SEZs are emerging in targeted at Industry 4.0, tourism,
financial and other professional services. With an average
pre-pandemic economic growth of 6.5%, six of the ten fastest
growth, recalibrate their approaches to providing city services
and jumpstart the recovery to build back better and become
more liveable, sustainable, resilient and affordable. Reduction of
carbon emissions through energy efficient buildings and technol-
HOW CAN SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES FOSTER
SUSTAINABLE OCEAN DEVELOPMENT?
potential for the development of a textiles and garments cluster,
creating jobs for women and youths in particular.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes the
growing economies are in Africa. The African Union is largest
ogy, smart energy infrastructure, and clean electrification. Smart
The ocean as well as special economic zones are key drivers
importance of inclusive and sustainable industrialization and the
global free trade area, interestingly characterized by a large vari-
cities are emerging rapidly, using innovative technologies to im-
of many coastal economies. If we are to harness the ocean’s
infrastructure that supports in eradicating poverty. SEZs foster sus-
ety of sectors such as minerals, agriculture and industry and its
prove the management and efficiency of the urban environment.
vast potential and preserve its biodiversity, a multi-stakeholder
tainable economic development and lead the way to prosperity.
140 141

LEADING THE WORLD WITH TRUST
EGYPT-JAPAN
EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP
FOR RESILIENT SOCIETIES
The bilateral relationship between Egypt and Japan is traced
back to 19th century, to the Japanese mission visiting Egypt.
Since then, there has been a good and strong relationship
between Egypt and Japan in a variety of fields including politics,
economics and culture.
Egypt’s stability, development and empowering enhancement
of its constructive role in the region are important for the MENA
regional peace and stability.
Moreover, with a large young population, Egypt’s labour force
In accordance with the vision “Leading the world with trust” the
ment of competent graduates through: introducing guidelines
and market are also attractive for Japanese businesses, with
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) engages in devel-
targeting both soft skills and practical skills on both the school
about 50 companies having expanded operations here.
opment cooperation across the world to realize human security.
management level and the teacher level; and supporting the
As the implementing agency of Japan’s official development
establishment of work transition units in the pilot schools – all in
The cooperation between Egypt and Japan started with technical
assistance, JICA decided to play a larger role in building resilient
order to contribute to the improvement of the discipline, produc-
cooperation in 1954, followed by grant aid in 1973, and loan in
societies through the trust that they have fostered over years
tivity, and team work of the students and their transition to the
1974. In 1977, JICA’s Egypt Office was established and since
H.E. Mr. Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, announced their joint partnership
with their partner countries. In accordance with this vision, JICA,
labour market.
then, JICA continued to provide cooperation in Egypt in different
on education: Egypt-Japan Education Partnership “EJEP”.
under the leadership of President Kitaoka Shinichi, has continued
sectors: Cairo Opera House, Peace Bridge, Cairo University
to strengthen collaborations with Egypt.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION – “LEARNING
THROUGH PLAYING”
HIGHER EDUCATION AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
The first Japanese University outside of Japan, Egypt-Japan
University of Science and Technology “E-JUST” in New Borg
El Arab City, Alexandria, is based on the bilateral agreement
Specialized Paediatric Hospital (CUSPH), Greater Cairo Metro
Line No. 4 and Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) represent the
major symbolic cooperation projects.
On the occasion of the official visit to Japan by H.E. Mr.
Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt,
This partnership has been realized based on the strong interest
and commitment of the two leaders, who place a high priority
on the cooperation in the area of education including early childhood,
basic, technical and higher education, as well as scientific
research, technology and innovation.
JICA is supporting the improvement of the quality of early child-
between the governments, with the concept of a research-orient-
in 2016, H.E. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan and
Photos: Embassy of Japan in Egypt
hood education through the dissemination of important con-
ed university introducing practical engineering education in small
cepts such as “Learning through Playing” that aims at fostering
number of students per class with international standards.
independence, cooperativeness, sociability and discipline among
the children, which will in return promote the healthy upbringing
In addition to Faculty of Engineering (FoE) postgraduate pro-
of the Egyptian children.
grammes, undergraduate FoE and Faculty of International
Business & Humanities (FIBH) started in 2017. Therefore, E-JUST
JICA and the Ministry of Education & Technical Education of
adopts an approach of innovative inter-disciplinary higher ed-
Egypt agreed to introduce elements of Japanese-style education,
ucation that combines the specialties in technologies with the
especially what is known as the “Tokkatsu Activities”, to develop
humanities, liberal arts and business studies, in order to nourish
social, emotional, physical and academic skills of the students,
graduates of unique features and qualifications.
in order to become responsible members of the society.
41 Egypt-Japan Schools “EJS” have been opened as of the academic
year 2019/2020, with more EJSs to be opened in coming
years. In addition, a group of existing public schools will also get
support in introducing Japanese-style education model JICA’s
support incorporates both technical and financial assistance, as
well as collaboration with JICA Volunteers.
TECHNICAL EDUCATION TARGETING SOFT AND
PRACTICAL SKILLS. DISCIPLINE, PRODUCTIVITY
AND TEAM BUILDING.
For Egypt’s technical schools, where graduates are faced with
a low rate and mismatch of employment, in collaboration with
Japanese companies in Egypt, JICA is supporting the develop-
142 143

CONTINUITY IS STRENGTH
AND PERSEVERANCE IS THE ROOT
OF SUCCESS
THE PHARAOHS’ GOLDEN PARADE
MAESTRO NADER ABBASSI ACCOMPANIED
THE EGYPTIAN QUEENS AND KINGS
ORDER OF THE RISING SUN FOR THE OUTSTAND-
ING DIPLOMATIC COUPLE FAYZA ABOU EL NAGA
AND HISHAM EL ZIMAITY
uting to maintaining and developing the relations of friendship
between the two countries. In January 2015, during his tenure
as Ambassador, he contributed to achieving the first visit by the
Maestro Nader Abbassi directed the impressive United
Philharmonic Orchestra & Choir with 120 musicians and 100
singers in the presence of H.E. Abdelfattah El Sisi, President
cultural souls by the universal language of music is his passion
for decades, as well addressing the young generations. He is
leading as artistic director the “Orchestre pour la Paix” in Paris,
Prime Minister of Japan to Egypt after the assumption of His
of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and left Egyptians and the
founded in 1988 by the Argentinian pianist Miguel Estrella that
On June 11, the award ceremony of the Order of the Rising Sun,
Excellency President Sisi. After returning to Egypt, he continued
world in awe.
unites young professional musicians from all over the world for
the Gold and Silver Star, was held for Ambassador Fayza Abou
to contribute to the development of Japanese-Egyptian coop-
the promotion of a peaceful dialogue between different cultures.
El Naga, National Security Adviser to the President, and Hisham
eration, including in the field of education, and is still actively
Egypt invited and the world joined live from Africa all over
El-Zamaity, former Ambassador of Egypt to Japan, at the resi-
cooperating in order to create the future of bilateral relations for
Europe, the Americas, China, Japan and Australia to witness the
In July 2011 Nader Abbassi was the first musical director and
dence of the Japanese Ambassador in Cairo. This award comes
example through his work as General Coordinator of the Joint
majestic journey of the twenty-two mummies of Egyptian Kings
principal conductor of the ‘Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’ (QPO).
in appreciation of the great achievements and contributions they
Committee of the Grand Egyptian Museum.
and Queens belonging to the New Kingdom of Ancient Egypt
From 2002 until 2011 the artistic director and principal conductor
made to strengthening bilateral relations between Japan and
from the Egyptian Museum at Tahrir Place to the National
of the Cairo Opera Orchestra, and he made his acclaimed debut
Egypt and strengthening friendship and goodwill between the
During the award ceremony, Ambassador Fayza Abou El Naga
Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC). Design, realization and
as conductor with Opera ’Aida’ at the Great Pyramids of Giza
two countries. This is the first time in history that a couple has
stated that holding several positions as the first woman in Egypt
the soloists Amira Selim, Nesma Mahgoub, Reham Abdelhakim,
in 2002.
been crowned together at the same time with the Order of the
has been a source of pride for her so far, but she is especially
Radwa El Beheiry and Salma Sorour impressed and Abbassi
Rising Sun, the Gold and Silver Star.
proud of this new honour this time as they are the first couple to
decided specifically to highlight the strength and competence of
Under his direction the Cairo Opera Orchestra has been invited
be crowned with this prestigious Japanese decoration together
Egyptian female artists.
to various festivals, opera productions and concerts in Greece,
Both of them have made long-term efforts for the development
at the same time.
Mexico, Germany, China, Oman, and France where Maestro
and strengthening of Japan-Egypt relations, and they have had
The monumental composition by Hesham Nazih has been creat-
Abbassi conducted operas, ballets and symphonic concerts.
outstanding achievements in the development of the current
She also stressed the importance of continuing to work with
ed together with Ahmed El-Mougy, to express the essence of the
The compositions of Nader Abbassi have been performed by or-
bilateral relations and the bonds of friendship between Japan
Japan in several fields, foremost of which is the field of child-
Ancient Egypt civilization, a musical tapestry boasting different
chestras in France, USA, Germany, Switzerland, Egypt, Slovenia
and Egypt. Many of these contributions are embodied through
care, citing the Japanese proverb: “Continuity is strength, and
styles of Egyptian music through the history with a contemporary
and he is a permanent member of the Jury of the ’International
various fields of current bilateral cooperation, such as the Grand
perseverance is the root of success.” For his part, Ambassador
twist. Abbassi, the artistic director and founder of the Orchestra,
Stenhammar Singing Competition’ in Norrköping in Sweden.
Egyptian Museum (GEM), the Egyptian-Japanese University of
Hisham El-Zamaity stated that the time when he took up his job
benefits in his conducting career from his wide professional
Science and Technology (E-JUST).
as Egypt’s Ambassador to Japan in 2011 was very difficult, but
experience as a singer, bassoonist and composer. Connecting
he managed to overcome many difficulties with his Japanese
During her long-term tenure as Minister of International Cooper-
friends by emphasizing the stability of Egypt as the foremost
ation starting in 2001, Ambassador Fayza Abou El Naga signif-
priority while doing his best to develop Japanese-Egyptian
icantly expanded the base of bilateral cooperation, including
relations. He also expressed his happiness for sharing the joy of
the signing of 38 mutual memoranda on economic cooperation
being crowned with the medal with the attendees, including his
between Japan and Egypt. In particular, during her tenure at the
family members.
Ministry, Ambassador Abou El Naga signed a memorandum
of cooperation between the Japanese and Egyptian governments
Photos: Embassy of Japan in Egypt
on the plan for the construction of the Grand Egyptian Museum
and made great contributions towards the establishment of
E-JUST University since it was an idea until the signing of the
cooperation memorandum. After that, she also held several
important positions such as Counsellor to the President, Chair
of the Board of Trustees of E-JUST University, and Chair of the
Steering Committee of the Egypt-Japan Educational Partnership
(EJEP), and she continues to cooperate for the development of
Japan-Egypt relations from various locations.
Ambassador Hisham El-Zamaity has served as the Ambassador
of Egypt to Japan, and has strived to enhance mutual understanding
between Japan and Egypt since taking office, contrib-
144 145

NATIONAL MUSEUM
OF EGYPTIAN CIVILIZATION
Innovative Cultural Concept
in The Heart of Cairo
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) is unique
by all means. Inaugurated in April with the most impressive global
awareness along with THE PHARAOHS’ GOLDEN PARADE,
livestreamed to all continents, when the twenty-two mummies
and seventeen coffins of the Egyptian Queens and Kings of the
New Kingdom of Ancient Egypt were moved from the Egyptian
Museum to their final burial place to the Gallery of the Royal
Mummies in the NMEC and received by H.E. Abdelfattah El Sisi,
President of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
The Nile, Writing, State and Society, Material Culture, Beliefs and
Thinking and the Gallery of the Royal Mummies.
Located on the archaeological site of El-Fustat in Old Cairo,
overlooking the El-Seera Lake, and in near future part of the
Fustat Hills Park, set to be the largest park in the Middle East on
an area of 500 acres, the museum was designed by the Egyptian
architect El Ghazzali Kosseiba and the exhibition areas by
Japanese architect Arata Isozaki.
NMEC is the first museum devoted entirely to the Egyptian civilization,
the earliest in history, and intends to educate and guide
visitors across various key historical phases, displayed in a core
permanent exhibition of the principle achievements of Egyptian
civilization with six galleries covering the Dawn of Civilization,
The unique combination of the museum’s concept, location and
even being managed by an economist, the visionary Director
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim (previously economic attaché of the
Egyptian Embassy in Berlin and consultant to various national
and international organizations including the World Bank, WTO,
UNCTAD, UNDP and the World Intellectual Property Organization
WIPO), are the pillars to develop this institution as a specific
cultural hub in the region combining antiquities with music, arts,
welcoming international exhibitions, film screenings, conferences
and offering all on-site facilities. The concept has been designed
via a multidisciplinary thematic approach as an important, cultural,
educational, recreational and research centre for a broad
national and international audience, scholars and all generations.
The project forms part of UNESCO’s aim to safeguard and preserve
Egypt’s cultural heritage, going back more than half a
century to the establishment of the international campaign to
save the monuments of Nubia in 1960. UNESCO is also providing
the technical support in training and exhibition development.
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
146 147

IMPACT INVESTING – THE NEW NORMAL
Svetlana Banerjee
Founder of Camomile Impact Community &
Impact Investing Ambassador
CHANGE
This shows that in spite of investors being aware of climate crises,
our oceans being polluted with plastic, devastating and ever
These are: lack of awareness, lack of accessible education, lack
or her bank to learn about this relatively new topic, then you
Do you embrace change? Only five years ago the world looked
accelerating deforestation, melting polar ice and mass destruc-
of accessible impact investing opportunities for small investors
wouldn’t land in such program.
very different. One could travel freely, there was no pandemic
tion of biodiversity, most of the investments around the world
and its enhanced by a fragmented ecosystem. Let’s dive deeper
emergency, “climate crises” didn’t exist and sustainability was
are still based on profit maximization adjusted by risk. The third
in each of these challenges of impact investing sector.
The third challenge - lack of accessible impact investing opportu-
perceived as something “nice to have” but not as a necessity.
dimension of any investment – impact – is still largely ignored
nities - comes into play once you are aware of impact investing,
Talking about impact investing - investments which not only generate
measurable, social and environmental impact but also solid
returns, was known by a small group and not taken seriously by
most. Even worse – the majority of financial professionals had
never even heard about it.
and not incorporated in investment portfolios.
CHALLENGES
THE FIRST CHALLENGE IS LACK OF AWARENESS.
You might have never heard about the term impact investing before.
And it doesn’t matter who you are and what your profession
you want to get involved in the sector and invest with impact.
You want to engage with your savings to clean oceans, build
houses and roads out of waste plastic, produce vegan burgers,
improve health, sanitation and education systems in various
communities, save tropical forests, invest in innovative alterna-
Finance is a massive force which can either support or destroy
is or from which country you are from. You might be a doctor,
tive energy sources, act for climate change, etc.
Fortunately change is part of our life. The world is transforming
millions of lives. Then, why are financial institutions, govern-
teacher, business owner, IT specialist, consultant or a banker.
and adapting to the rapidly changing circumstances. Impact
ments, financial regulators, educational sector and other stake-
I was one myself and I didn’t know about its existence as no-
However, typical minimum investment size in impact investing
investing, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are nowadays
holders still hesitating to take real actions and facilitate asset
body, not at the university nor at the financial institutions where
fund is USD 250,000 or above. Rarely one will find the entry from
discussed and presented at WEF (World Economic Forum) and
transformation to solve burning world challenges? It is known
I worked, talked or knew of it.
USD 100,000 and extremely rarely below USD 10,000.
countless conferences around the world. Institutions are aiming
and acknowledged that mankind at present has all capital, tech-
There are only few opportunities, and this varies from country to
to contribute to SDGs and allocate trillions to sustainable investments.
EXPONENTIAL GROWTH OF IMPACT INVESTING
nology, innovative solutions available to eliminate self-created
environmental and social issues.
There are three challenges of Impact Investing in becoming THE
NEW NORMAL and to positively impact hundreds of millions of
lives and save our planet. And, as a side effect, financial profes-
THE SECOND CHALLENGE IS LACK OF
ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION.
Where to learn about what is impact investing? How is it different
to Sustainable Investment? Where to find projects and funds to
country for retail investors.
A MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION - WHY?
How can something so obvious, like considering environment
The growth of the impact investing market is enormous. The
sionals will find a fulfilling meaning in their professions.
invest in? How to measure impact? Until now our educational
and people in the business be so inaccessible in terms of
global assets allocated in this sector increased from USD 15.2
system has not incorporated SDGs and impact investing as a
education, opportunities to get engaged into and invest? How
billion in 2015 to USD 715 billion in 2020, according to GIIN
part of the mandatory program. As a consequence, only few
can that be, that one wants to create positive impact around
(Global Impact Investment Network, thegiin.org). This shows a
students are educated on these topics.
the world, but this “good finance” is still accessible only to an
tremendous ongoing capital shift and even more importantly -
exclusive few? In my opinion, we are currently “over-regulating”,
the wide recognition of this investment approach.
I want to underline the word accessible above. Prices to study
“over-reporting”, are “over-comfortable “. We are “over-talking”
impact investing were and are still biting. Just 3 years ago,
and “overthinking” about profit, but unfortunately, not “overact-
In the year 2020 there were 25,000 fully licensed banks and their
there were only a few, very expensive educational programs and
ing”. By shifting capital into impact investing we will not only
assets constitute approximately USD 150 trillion. This is twice
courses which would completely discourage you if you would
help to solve social and environmental challenges but add
as large as the global annual GDP. Accordingly, Impact Investing
need to pay it from your own pocket. Unless you were from a
meaning, purpose and inspiration to actors in the financial
share of this assets is less than one percent, namely 0.48%.
wealthy family, CEO of a big company or a banker sent by his
industry.
148 149

FRAGILE
PATRICIA DE SOLAGES
In spite of governments getting involved into putting sustainable
polices into place, still there is a huge gap between traditional
Investment for profit only and impact investing. Nowadays due to
global events such as COVID-19 and climate change, awareness
of impact investing has increased and its acceptance is not just a
trend, but a long-term direction for finance. People are becoming
more aware about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals
defined by UN, which are basically the framework and themes
for impact investing. As by investing with impact, we have an
underlying mission to solve one or several of SDGs.
Educate your own employees and clients – Impact Investing
School team is happy to help you to embrace the challenge and
change towards impact investing. If you are an asset owner, align
your values with the investment and start investing in existing
impact investing funds.
By taking actions and transforming Impact Investing to the New
Normal we can develop the ecosystem to achieve SDGs and
create positive impact on our planet for the current and future
generations.
What differentiates Impact Investing from sustainable investing?
The last incorporates ESG (environmental, social and governance)
practices, like reducing CO2 emissions, waste, but still has
profit at its core. Impact Investing has an underlying mission and
generates deep impact on people’s lives and enables systematic
change. It is important to understand what is what in order to
take the right action.
ACT WITH IMPACT & INVEST FOR ETERNITY
Whoever you are, spread awareness about impact investing – connect,
learn, engage and invest at Camomile Impact Community.
Currently there are around 6.5 million people in 25,000 banks
managing USD 150 trillion in the financial sector and I wish all of
them would take an action inside their financial organizations.
Once at our TV-Show “Swiss Impact with Banerjis” we were
discussing the typical investment horizon of impact investing,
which is 5-10 years. However, I would like to ask all investors
reading this article to imagine that you would have another
50 years to live and see your grandchildren then. Would you be
able to look into their eyes and explain to them, that despite of
being aware of all human created problems on our planet, which
could have been solved, you still invested the way you invested?
I would like to quote Martin Palmer, CEO of Faithinvest, who
has been our guest and suggest to all investors to embrace an
“Invest for eternity” attitude to all the investors.
www.impactinvestingschool.com
www.camomile.ch
Photos: Svetlana Banerjee
150 151

AXEL ENTHOVEN
DIPLOMACY THROUGH ICONS
In this field, product designer Axel Enthoven has become a
steadfast icon with a global appeal. The co-founder of the
Yellow Window design agency not only devises garden sprinklers,
furniture, sanitary facilities, telephones, buses, trams or
trains, but also “designs” social tools for a better and more
mobile life. Meet a man for all seasons.
Usually he is on the road or at a customer, far or near. He does
not shy away from any continent or ocean, loves good food and
fine wine. Axel Enthoven is a sociable Burgundian. By day he
inspires Yellow Window, a strong and diverse design agency
headquartered in a large, creative space in the heart of Antwerp
with additional offices in Paris and Lyon and a commercial base
in Bangkok. The word ‘stop’ is not in his dictionary.
BOEING BOEING ...
For decades, Enthoven and his team has been able to please
the world with icons such as the city tram in Rio de Janeiro,
Rotterdam, The Hague, Rennes, Breme, Brussels… He’s left his
impression on more than 25 cities worldwide, as the trams,
metros and trains with his influence continue to service populations
worldwide. One iconic example is the Thalys, for which
Enthoven’s agency was responsible for the complete refurbishment.
And the acclaimed campus tram in Doha, Qatar?
Enthoven’s award-winning designs are everywhere. Even in the
air. Years ago, Air France was at the front door with the request
to give the Airbus 380’s first class seats a newer look. Then, as
part of the delivery of its new Boeing B777-9X and the renovation
of the Boeing B777-300ER, Cathay Pacific launched an international
competition with a number of design firms, in which Yellow
Window was asked to participate.
corners of the world. For example, Asia has become the largest
market in the field of public transport for Yellow Window.
But more and more Asian manufacturers of lifestyle products
are also relying on the renowned expertise of the design agency.
The significance of the Asian market is obvious. “The home
market is saturated, you have push your boundaries,” says
entrepreneur Axel Enthoven with sober conviction.
A SUIT AND TIE
The product designer with Dutch roots and blood enjoys his
international fame and status. Although product designers often
do not come into the picture themselves because of their role
behind the scenes, it is impossible to say this about Enthoven.
He is not necessarily the man of the grand and wild gesture, but
is rather the subtle diplomat and entrepreneur who knows what
he is doing and also subtly points out: “there are two types of designers:
those who have their own nature and style and therefore
create exciting, innovative signatures, and those who develop a
unique style for each client. I have decided to dedicate my life to
the latter. When I began studying, most of my peers were artists.
I instead constantly had my eye on the developments in trade
and marketing. Exposed from an early age to the world of business,
my feet planted firmly on the ground and a good understanding
of the language of the industry. I traded my long hair for
a suit and tie. ” Axel Enthoven has grown into a true ambassador,
a source of Belgian national pride: a citizen of the world. A role
that was made for him. His talent and dedication to well-founded
designs has not escaped the attention of King Philippe, who
appointed him Grand Officer of the Order of the Crown in 2014.
ASIA
YELLOW WINDOW
Everyone has encountered Enthoven’s work, and everyone is
Axel Enthoven started his career as a freelancee designer in the
1970s. He had previously studied at the Academy for Industrial
Development in Eindhoven. After that he obtained a degree from
the Salesian Technical College in Tokyo, Japan, and then went on
to pursue engineering studies in Ohio, USA. The big leap forward
came through a dream contract with Ideal Standard and its sister
company American Standard, internationally renowned for its
sanitary ware. A lucky shot that got the ball rolling. Today this
ball continues to gain momentum towards new markets and far
Since Enthoven founded the then Enthoven Associates in 1990,
the agency has gained considerable experience and acclaim with
the support of Jean-Pierre Geelen and Alain Denis. The agency
was able to score big from the outset, especially with design for
the public transport sector. This was by no means a coincidence.
At the time, Professor Axel Enthoven was head of the People and
Mobility department at the Eindhoven Design Academy. It’s no
wonder mobility kept him so busy.
aware of it. Anyone who takes to the street will undoubtedly
come across the famous low-floor trams, which were followed to
the great pleasure of the commuters by the famous double-decker
trains.
While the designs provide daily delight to commuters with fresh
colors and intricacies, these details do not arise from aesthetic
considerations. By design, everything is functional. No flourish is
added, no detail is accidental.
Jan Engels, Axel Enthoven, Barbara Dietrich and Kristina Engels
152 153

A TRAM OF 30
SOCIALLY SUPPORTIVE
Where are emotion and reason in Enthoven’s creations? According
to the designer, “each product is essentially rational, but the
emotion plays more with furniture than with a truck. Just look at
the Big Oma rocking chair. I think rationality is an achievement.
I mean: if you think a little logically, you end up with the same
form. What makes the difference between one product and
another? It is precisely that emotional dimension that triggers
the consumer.” Designers furnish the world. There is something
tragic about this, because everything is aging, everything is
passing, becoming worn and old-fashioned. Will the magic of his
designs ever disappear? For the time being, Axel Enthoven has
little trouble with that. “A lot has to do with the sector you are in.
A ship has a lifespan of fifty to sixty years, a tram of at least 30.
I always think ahead, so that I do not have to hide from shame
when I come across my not so young creations decades later
in a completely renewed world. I also said that they don’t look
youthful and spicy.”
Yet Axel Enthoven’s mission is far from complete. His international
team at Yellow Window, with its CEO Philip De Wulf, not only
profiles itself in all corners of the world with material products,
but it also realizes that this world is subject to rapid social changes.
What is special is Yellow Window’s new course of explicitly
‘designing’ social support resources and deploying studies to
initiate social actions with regard to health, gender equality and
social innovations.
The Paris division of Yellow Window achieved great successes in
Marseille, Brittany and the Limousin. The fact that Axel Enthoven
is still going through fire after all these years is, in our eyes, very
special. Talk about a man for all seasons.
Philip Willaert
Art historian + publicist
154 155

156

KILIAN SAUERESSIG
LIGHT IS THE KEY TO KNOWLEDGE
The key of life. Without light, there is no life, without light, there
can be no vision. The transformation of light in the form of reflection,
absorption and transmission allows us to look reflectively at
images and sculptures. The light becomes images in our minds.
The images become emotions. The ideas become images. This
morphs into the fascination of transforming light into mass and
mass into light. This is the universal principle on which everything
is based, where the spirit and the soul form a special bond with
light. LA CHIAVE DELLA LUCE – works of art that trigger magic
in the viewer. Works of art that promote knowledge. Let yourself
be enchanted.
www.kiliansaueressig.com
Photos: Kilian Saueressig
158 159

SCHLOSS KRUMBACH
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
AND ITS EDUCATION FORMULA
Raising Future Sustainability Leaders,
Making Sustainability a Cultural Norm
With global warming and ecological crises on the rise, the
developed-developing world divide intensifying, and incresing
pandemic-induced inequalities coming to surface, the issues of
sustainability have never been more pertinent. One of the most
robust ways to foster sustainable development is through education.
Schloss Krumbach International School (SKIS), a co-educational
boarding school for students of 12-19 years old located in
an ancient Austrian castle, illustrates the strategic benefits of this
approach.
SUSTAINABILITY AND EDUCATION ARE TIGHTLY
INTERWOVEN. WHAT BROUGHT SCHLOSS
KRUMBACH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL TO
THE CC FORUM?
Based in the beautiful Buckligen Welt, the Earth of a Thousand
Hills, in Krumbach, Austria, we are a sustainability-oriented
institution with a dream of educating bright young individuals
from all over the world. Sustainability stands firmly at the core
of both our academic agenda and our institutional values. It is
through daily exposure to community work, bilingual education,
culture trips and participation in global discussions such as our
newly founded Open Gates Knowledge Leadership Forum that
our students truly grasp the meaning of having Earth as their
common home.
They develop cosmopolitan sensitivities and proactive openmindedness,
learn to be caring and responsible towards their
peers, environment, and spaces that they share with each other.
At the same time, they also learn to appreciate and preserve
their own cultures, linguistic authenticity, customs. This is a new
global, more sustainable and more diverse society in the making,
the one based on constant dialogue and mutual educational
enrichment.
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOURSELF,
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN MAKING SCHLOSS
KRUMBACH SCHOOL A SUSTAINABILITY
ADVOCATE?
Schloss Krumbach International School is a family project.
Organized by my father financially and led by mother academically
and organisationally, the school-castle is also a home to my
siblings - my younger sister is a student at Grade 7 and my twin
brother is a history and geography teacher. As you can see, this
school is something we all care about, and with my background
in international affairs and communications and experience at
UNIDO and WEDF, it was only natural for me to share our vision
and values with the world at the CC Forum. Jobwise, I have
little to do with education as a field - I hold a MSc in Global
Governance and Diplomacy from the University of Oxford and my
professional and academic focus is on counter-violent extremism,
counter trafficking in human beings and international security.
However, with my mother coming from a dynasty of boarding
schools’ headmasters which dates back to the 19th Century,
I myself am a product of what dedicated pedagogics and love
and care for students can accomplish. We translate these values
to the setting of the school.
And having lived and studied in eight countries and speaking four
languages, I have been quite exposed to international education
with its pros and cons. This experience makes me immensely
proud of this wonderful project, of all the hard work my family
is doing to create a beautiful egalitarian school which brings
sustainability ideas a little closer day by day. Schloss Krumbach
International School also does a lot of charity via generous
scholarships. I feel very strongly about this matter. Giving kids a
chance to have a better education and hence a better life is like
lighting up the stars on the skyline of humanity. It is an honour for
me to be a Schloss Krumbach International School Ambassador
and to support this family business as much as I can.
IN YOUR KEYNOTE YOU DESCRIBE SCHLOSS
KRUMBACH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL AS A
“FUSION OF INNOVATION AND HISTORY”.
CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THAT?
To keep moving forward, remember the paths left behind.
To sustain is to progress, to revisit, to flow. As one Russian
proverb says, ‘Everything new is well-forgotten old.’ Fair enough.
Yet something is missing. Innovation does not stay innovative
forever. Everything new becomes routine at some point,
and everything routine has a spark of the new.
Sustainability is a constant knowledge accumulation: the
established - the evolving - the new. One of the most prominent
tools to foster this cycle is through education, and Schloss
Krumbach International Schools is a stellar embodiment of the
benefits associated with such approach. Sustainability thrives
on multidisciplinarity and intersectional cooperation, and this is
precisely what we do - we come up with creative, previously
unthinkable combinations of knowledge accumulated over time
and ground-breaking practices. Digital design in the context of
digital detox? Why not. This is why our school self-positions
160 161

as a fusion of innovation and history, reinterpreting best teaching
traditions of Europe - something very ancient and conventional
- to work in sync with the best novelties humanities has to offer
whether these are cutting-edge technologies, most recent education
trends and unique methods of student self-governance.
WHAT IS THE VISION OF SCHLOSS KRUMBACH
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL ON EDUCATING
FUTURE SUSTAINABILITY LEADERS?
As a global society but also on the national level, we are
running short of the responsible, ethical and proactive elites.
We pride ourselves with being one-of-a-kind talent foundry,
Talentschmiede, which empowers highly qualified young professionals
who are able to recognise, predict and address the
sustainability challenges with a practical mindset and ethical
considerations. Schloss Krumbach International School is
uniquely well-placed to equip the future sustainability leaders
with the conceptual tools and practical competences they
would need to address the challenges to sustainable development.
As we adhere to the highest standards of International
Baccalaureate and Austrian educational system, we teach
students to embrace a flexible problem-solving mindset and
awareness of global policy-making.
Students of today are leaders of tomorrow, the one that would
work effectively and robustly towards anticipation of sustainability
goals. Educating our youth to be responsible citizens means
building a base for a more stable and peaceful world. In addition,
it is one of our imperatives to use the school’s profits to support
students from across the globe in pursuit of international education.
Many students right now are on merit-based scholarships
that cover all the accommodation and education costs.
levels of impact. Lisa debated whether a possible introduction
of vaccine passports would be a warranted security measure
or an infringement on human rights. By talking about the most
pertinent issues under the TalkTimely section and interviewing
experts, our students map up their future professional paths in
the ways that are compatible and useful for sustainable development.
OPEN GATES Knowledge Leadership Forum is our way of
showing students what careers and opportunities are out there,
of challenging them into self-discovery and thinking what kind of
personalities they aspire to be and what kind of imprint they want
to leave behind. This is one example of how we solidify education
for sustainability by inspiring hearts.
TO CONCLUDE, HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP IN
JUST A FEW WORDS THE CONTRIBUTION OF
SCHLOSS KRUMBACH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
TO SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION?
Actually, we exemplify the effective linkage between sustainability
and education as a marriage of convenience. Education,
as a backbone of future societies, is not just a way to proliferate
sustainable practices and values. It is a nuanced strategy that
enables a lasting and irreversible contribution, a shift in social
priorities and ways of thinking that would render sustainability
the only acceptable mode to live by. SKIS shapes hearts and
minds to shape the future. With our commitment to pioneering
and egalitarian education, Schloss Krumbach International
School makes the pursuit of sustainable development - and the
positive changes it entails - profound and sustainable per se.
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT OPEN GATES
KNOWLEDGE LEADERSHIP FORUM?
Future sustainability leaders possess the skills to bring about
the change but also knowledge of what this change entails.
We equip our students with both. One of our most recent initiatives
is OPEN GATES Knowledge Leadership Forum. This is a
unique discussion forum of international scope and significance
that puts the SKIS community in dialogue with world-famous
experts and practitioners in education, politics, international
security, and business.
The most recent expert to attend OPEN GATES was Lisa Y.
Roskens, CEO of Burlington Capital, philanthropist and community
leader. Originally from the United States, Lisa talked
about her experience as a successful female entrepreneur and
activist engaged in social projects on local and international
Tamara Volozhanina, Schloss Krumbach International School Ambassador
162

FRANCESCO MITRANO
President of Monte-Carlo Federation
of all Polo Disciplines in Monaco,
Creator of the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup Tournament,
the Captain of the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup Team
MR. MITRANO, YOU ARE THE PRESIDENT OF THE
MONACO POLO FEDERATION, THE CREATOR OF
THE FIRST MONTE-CARLO POLO CUP TOURNA-
MENT; YOU ARE ALSO THE CAPTAIN OF THE
MONTE-CARLO POLO CUP TEAM, THE ORGANIZ-
ER OF ALL SUBSEQUENT POLO TOURNAMENTS
IN THE PRINCIPALITY. HAVE YOU ALWAYS HAD
A PASSION FOR POLO AND HORSE RIDING
SINCE YOUR EARLY CHILDHOOD OR DID YOU
CONSCIOUSLY BECOME INTERESTED IN THIS
DISCIPLINE AT A MORE MATURE AGE?
For me polo has been a hobby and passion since childhood,
since I started horse riding when I was about 6 years old. My
father loved horses, so did my grandfather; he introduced me
to show jumping and I was fascinated by jumping hurdles on
horseback. Equestrian sport is a family sport. From the moment
I started playing polo, I felt that this is my sport. In 2006 I was
living in Tuscany and a friend of mine, Salvatore Ferragamo,
had an idea to create a Polo Club in Florence.
We organized the horses and invited an Argentinian instructor
to our school. That is how the Florence Polo Club was founded.
I was one of the board members of the club at that time. That’s
how I started playing polo. After that, I went to Argentina to
improve my skills in the game. Luckily it was easy for me. From
the moment when I first saddled a horse to the present day,
equestrian sport has been constantly present in my life for many
years. It is not an easy sport, but I had a good base for studying
the discipline of polo. Of course, initially polo was just a sport for
me, which eventually transformed into a way of life.
from. I decided that Monaco would be the best destination for
several reasons. Firstly, Monaco is a great and a very safe place.
I have two children and therefore I decided to move to Monaco
to ensure a high quality of life for them. Security, amazing weather
and many other reasons characterize the uniqueness of the
principality. Monaco also has a strategic position; you can easily
travel the world and come back. I moved to Monaco in 2012 and
started preparing the project. I already felt that Monaco is a special
and unique place which should at least have a polo club or
event. I created the first polo association in Monaco and in 2013,
under the patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, held
the first polo tournament - the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup.
It was a great success with many big sponsors. After the first
Monte-Carlo Polo Cup, we decided to present this project to the
FIP (Federation of International Polo). Due to the great success
of the first event, they decided that Monte-Carlo should have its
own federation. So I became the founder and President of the
Monaco Polo Federation – Monte-Carlo and officially represented
the Principality of Monaco on the world polo stage. Today, we
not only organize polo events in Monaco but also participate
in other international tournaments, organize friendly matches
between countries, drawing attention to this sport. Through polo
competitions, it is possible to transmit the message “for world
peace”.
HOW IS THE MONTE-CARLO POLO CUP HELD
AND HOW DO YOUR TOURNAMENTS IN MONACO
DIFFER FROM OTHER POLO TOURNAMENTS?
central square in Monaco. The tournament itself is not just a
sporting event; the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup is a very special event
for guests who want to experience the unique Monegasque lifestyle.
The programme does not change much, but every year we
still introduce some innovations: Polo VIP-village MCPC offers
the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup participants an elegant atmosphere
combining sport, business and glamour. Spectators will be
able to watch Polo matches, which will be held every day in
the late afternoon, sitting comfortably under a tent along the
field, equipped with “VIP-zones”.
Our partners - catering companies - provide a relaxing atmosphere
with champagne, canapés and barbecues. In pure Monaco
tradition, the closing night of the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup consists
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE MONACO TO DEVELOP
THE POLO DISCIPLINE? HOW DID THE IDEA OF
CREATING THE MONACO POLO FEDERATION AND
THE MONTE-CARLO POLO CLUB COME ABOUT?
I have travelled a lot in my life. I have studied in several countries,
lived in the United States, South Africa, France, Sweden and
London for several years, and also in Tuscany, Italy, where I come
Francesco Mitrano
We organize this event annually, and every year, at the beginning
of the event, we hold a spectacular equestrian parade.
The parade of horsemen on the Plaza de Casino, dedicated to
the opening of the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup, sets the pace for the
beginning of the celebrations - you can watch the procession of
the Chevaliers from the terraces of the Hôtel de Paris with guests
of honour, who later move to the luxurious Salle Empire for lunch.
The Monte-Carlo Polo Cup is the only sporting event, after the
world-famous Formula 1, for which it is permitted to use the
Francesco Mitrano with Princess Charlene and Prince Albert of Monaco
164 165

of the trophy ceremony of the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup, the
Ladies’ Best Hat Contest, and one of the main festive events,
a Gala Dinner in honour of the “Princess Charlene of Monaco
Foundation” or “Princess Stephanie Foundation”.
This is about the programme, organization and general atmosphere.
The Monte-Carlo Polo Cup has evolved from a simple
sporting event into a social event with specific attributes and
rules. This cannot be described in just a few words - you must
definitely visit it and feel everything yourself.
ON 2 APRIL, ALL LOVERS OF ONE OF THE
NOBLEST SPORTS WERE ABLE TO ENJOY THE
MONTE-CARLO CLUB POLO TOURNAMENT IN
DUBAI. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE UNITED
ARAB EMIRATES?
We chose the UAE because it is a place where polo is a very
popular sport, certainly one of the most active in the world, but
above all because of the warm welcome we always get here!
WHEN DO YOU PLAN TO HOLD THE NEXT
MONTE-CARLO POLO CUP AND HOW CAN
ONE GET TO YOUR EVENT?
We hope the situation in the world with COVID-19 will stabilize,
and sporting competitions will continue. Tournament dates and
additional information can be found at the Monaco Tourism
Office or on our websites www.montecarlopolofederation.com
and www.montecarlopoloclub.mc.
WAS THIS TOURNAMENT DIFFERENT FROM THE
ONES THAT USUALLY TAKE PLACE IN MONACO?
This was not a tournament, but a friendly match called the
Monte-Carlo Polo Cup Emirates, dare I say diplomatic, between
two Federations that love polo. The difference is that the event in
Monaco, called the Monte-Carlo Polo Cup, is a tournament with
4 teams competing for the trophy over three days of competition.
All photos: Luxury - Victoria Marco
166 167

168

THE FUTURE IS IN THE STARS
IN THE BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC V8,
TRACKING DOWN URSA MAJOR –
THE GREAT BEAR
A SHORT DAY’S LONG JOURNEY
THROUGH THE NIGHT
There it is. The very first star of nightfall. A planet actually. Venus.
Lit up by the sun which is now leisurely slipping below the horizon,
unhurriedly. Its last remaining rays breaking up a few solitary
clouds. One by one they disappear until the darkening sky is
wiped clear. And the last lights of the scattered houses and cottages
begin to go out, too. We switch on the headlamps of the
Continental GTC and glide through the Alpine pasture landscape
at a measured pace.
It’s grown dark by now. Dark, but not sombre, because the many
twinkling stars appearing, coming out here, there and everywhere
to let the stream of the Milky Way emerge, are joined by the
shining moon. She washes over the white Conti with gentle white
light as it begins its journey across the nocturnal firmament. And
here, in the Star Park on the Winkelmoosalm mountain pasture
near Reit im Winkel in Bavaria, some 1,200 meters above sea
level, this firmament appears to stretch particularly far. Lined by
clear-cut silhouettes of the forests and mountains, where the air
is purer than pure.
One typically drives a convertible in the light of day, under the
bright sun in a warm season – at least in central Europe. England
doesn’t conform to this. The British island, from which our travelling
companion on this star journey hails, knows no fixed season
170 171

for driving a convertible. That season is always. And at night as
well. Thanks to sophisticated heating and ventilation, it’s a highly
pleasurable experience to be enveloped in heat and perfectly
shielded from cool or icy winds.
Seen like that, one drives through a starlit night under the
sunshine of many thousand suns. As Manuel Philipp, our guide
through the world of celestial bodies, points out so concisely:
the sun is a star. And every star is a sun. Six thousand of them
are present for us to observe at night – 400 billion of them in our
galaxy alone.
disc). That, while we follow along in amazement as models of
the sun and galaxy are used to explain these things, and as we
follow the laser pointer and appear to be standing in a specific
place, we are in fact moving. Or rather, being moved. Constantly.
Through the Earth’s rotation, at a speed of 1,200 km/h, and at
over 100,000 km/h, too, as the Earth circles the sun.
Which means: nothing ever stands still. Ever. Everything is in
motion. Always. We, too, then set off again, on the move, setting
out at around midnight to track down the Great Bear in its full
expanse.
There, our solar system, within which the earth rotates on its own
axis while orbiting its central star, is hardly bigger than a piece of
confetti, and our planet, a microscopically small speck of dust in
comparison. According to current astronomy wisdom, there are
two trillion galaxies in existence. Astronomical figures which are
hard to grasp.
That’s also why our guided tour of the stars focuses on that
which lies near, or at least nearer. We find out that the moon,
which is closest to the Earth, is at a distance of 400,000 km from
us. That our solar system with all its planets – Mercury, Venus,
Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune – is in fact a disc
(shedding new light on the outdated concept of the Earth as a
Because at this moment, a portion of it is still hiding behind a
hill. It’s one of the few astral constellations that is always visible.
One point of orientation in the night sky is the North Star, also
called Polaris, which is at the end of Ursa Minor – the Little Bear.
It always points north.
We follow the Great Bear for part of the way. We’ll never catch up
with it – it will always lie ahead of us. Even though it moves by a
mere four minutes each day, from our earthly viewpoint.
Time, however, is relative: a fact that becomes somewhat clearer
when considering that the light of the Great Bear took 80 years
to reach us tonight. This stops us in our tracks and we dim the
headlights of the Continental to parking lights, so as not to disturb
this light from the stars.
Our growing humility in the face of this seemingly endless shining
world above our heads becomes deeper still with Manuel
Philipp’s final statement, “This Bentley is made of stardust”.
Add incredulity to amazement and humility. It seems an all too
far-fetched comparison. And yet, the astronomer and physicist
argues that everything on planet Earth – all material – comes
mainly from the “belly” of a giant star.
everything that we’ve brought forth comes from one and the
same place. This lends far deeper meaning to the surname of
David Bowie’s alter ego, Ziggy Stardust.
So our origins are written in the stars. Just like our present. And
even more so, the future. At Bentley, our future will take shape
under an electric star. When we return to the Star Park next year
for a night-time visit, our companion will be able to glide through
the alpine pastures in electric mode. And soon thereafter, as an
all-electric vehicle.
According to current knowledge, this giant star exploded in the
context of a supernova at some point in the distant past. The
stardust it generated was carried into a nearby cloud of gas. It
was from this stardust-enriched cosmic cloud that, several hundred
million years later, our solar system developed with the sun
as its central star and orbited by eight planets.
Photos: Bentley
Thus, everything in and around us is pure stardust, matter that
was created from the nuclear fusion that occurred inside that
giant star. And without whose existence we would not exist –
because the ball of rock we now call Earth wouldn’t have
emerged from thunder and lightning. On the Earth nearly
172 173

BEN KRIGLER
AGAIN AND AGAIN,
IT’S THE STORYTELLING THAT MAKES
KRIGLER PERFUMES SO DISTINCTIVE
Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, Ernest
shelves at home talks about the exclusive attention followed by
Hemingway – the list of the names of KRIGLER’s perfume
a fusion. “I would like to melt in her/him”. When the loved one is
fans is like the “Who is Who of the world”. As early as in the
absent, it comes to your mind as “pensées intrusives” Intrusive
19th century, Gabrielle Chanel scented herself with “Pleasure
thoughts. Just like if we are in trance.
Gardenia 79”, and today Princess Charlene of Monaco wears the
house’s precious fragrances. In 2005, Albert’s great-grandson
Love is indeed synonymous to Parfum. Our Parfum Lieber
Ben Krigler took over the family business in the fifth generation.
Gustav 14 is the perfect representation of Love. The scent was
One hundred years after the company opened the Boudoir in
inspired by love letters between my ancestor and her fiancé. She
Berlin, the studied architect becomes the master builder of
was in Provence, he was in Berlin. They got separated by World
the new Krigler.
War 1. He passed away during the war and what remained in her
possessions were the love letters. The last love letters she sent
Again and again, it’s the storytelling that makes Krigler perfumes
to Gustav came back and when she opened them. Each letters
so distinctive. And the enormous demand for quality. The per-
had the same beginning “Lieber Gustav”. Albert created that fra-
fume house Krigler takes all the time in the world to implement
grance to pay tribute to their love story. To that moment of Love.
this. Because the development of a fragrance takes time: After
Love can become eternal.
maceration, the ingredients must first rest in a cellar. After the
blend has been determined, they are allowed to mature once
again, like good wine.
It takes about one and a half years for an eau de parfum, two
years for the perfume, and three and a half years for the extract
until it is ready and meets the high standards. Of course, you
can also have your own fragrances created. Duration: 9 to 12
months. Cost: from 50,000 euros for a liter of the noble, personalized
fragrance, you’re in. We talked to Ben Krigler about love
and passion and got some great tips for fragrances from him.
FRAGRANCES ARE SOMETHING VERY PASSION-
ATE. HOW CAN ONE IMAGINE THAT: IS A PERFUM-
ER SOMEONE WHO IS ALWAYS IN A GOOD MOOD
HIMSELF AND WHO KNOWS EXACTLY HOW TO
COMPOSE THIS FEELING AS A FRAGRANCE? OR
DOES THE RESPECTIVE FEELING OF THE FRA-
GRANCE ARISE MORE OR LESS INCIDENTALLY?
The process of creation for a Parfumeur varies a lot. It can be
notes, the strong scents. Our collection of the beginning of the
20th Century is definitely a reflection of Albert’s mind. My Grand
parents added a different pedigree to them. My mother has well
Ben Krigler
Photo: Ben Krigler
AND WHICH ONE REFLECTS YOUR PERSONAL
CHARACTER BEST AND WHY?
Don’t miss out on them!
in a negative moment, in dark time, in a wonderful mood. Any
probably put a more romantic touch. And I would describe mine
On my end, If I must be honest, the fragrance I wear and I feel
moment can be inspiring, because there is indeed always an
as more a creation of our time. Extraordinaire Camelia 209 is
the sexiest man alive is Sierra Vista 2142. But that’s because I
WHAT ARE THE MOMENTS WHEN YOU
PERSONALLY CAN FEEL OR EXPERIENCE
“LOVE”?
inspiration in every moments. When I created my latest fragrance
Abrakaadabra 221. I started this fragrance two years ago, but
finished it in early 2020. I needed to bring something to heal,
something to make us feel better and to believe in some magic.
Because when you put a bit of fantasy, then it can help.
the composition of two minds, my mother and I. Its often more
complicated to add two minds in one scent. But in our case,
there was some kind of fusion and the result created one of our
best seller. A fresh, clean and citrus scent. A perfect one. The
press called it the Princess Scent, because Princess Charlene of
created it for me from the beginning. So If I want to be confident
and not only for a date, but a business meeting. Because indeed
I feel good with it.You want to wear a fragrance that will make
you feel good and confident. Comfortable.
A love story, when she starts is experienced on the magical side
Monaco wore it. In my vision, this perfume is the perfect example
For a Grand Entrance, America One 31, that’s the fragrance for
and enchantment. We would love to believe that love is always
unique and mysterious. Yet we can define it in different ways.
For instance, love is desire, the memory, the image, the eyes,
the lips, a smile.
Love is patience, love is time. Indeed in my point of view, by love
we are ensorcelled. When there is love, there is focus, obsession,
Friedrich von Schlegel in Lucine, a book that I discovered in our
DOES THE CHARACTER OF A PERFUMER
INFLUENCE THE FRAGRANCES?
I definitely believe so. I can tell by our Collection. We carry over
600 scents in our archives. Each fragrances are different from
one to another, because of whom created them. Albert lived in
Prussia, in Russia. He got influenced by the forests, the deep
of personalities.
LET’S GET SPECIFIC: WHICH OF YOUR FRA-
GRANCES WOULD YOU RECOMMEND WHEN
GOING ON A DATE? WHICH ONE FOR A GRAND
ENTRANCE, WHICH ONE IF YOU WANTED TO
CONVINCE SOMEONE VERY SUBTLY ABOUT YOU
gentlemen per say. I mean when you think that so many icons
wore it, it’s really unique. If its good for Ernest Hemingway, J.F.K.,
and many other icons. Then there is nothing to beat it! But you
must wear the fragrance that talks to you, forget boundaries,
forget your ideas. Break the rules and wear something that fits
your chemistry.
Elke Bauer, The HARBOR Magazine
174 175

BALTHASAR BRUSSELS
GRAND SABLON
BALTHASAR BRUSSELS
The stunning historical fur manufacture built in 1920 for
the Mallien family, a well-known industrial family in
Belgium that designed fur coats for the elite, is the scene
for daring and innovative projects.
Art, design, jewelry, fashion, gastronomy and travel
are turned into a new dimension.
We are not a concept, we are a lifestyle with
4.000 m² of Belgian and international creative
collections and boutiques.
Balthasar Brussels provides a platform for talented artists
and designers to showcase their work to an international
audience in a prestigious environment.
Our terrace & secret garden are open daily
from 11h to 19h and from Thursday to Sunday till 22h.
Place Du Grand Sablon 40, Brussels
info@balthasarbrussels.com
Elke Bauer
KRIGLER MONT SUISSE 67
An authentic Krigler perfume that takes you on a journey.
With fresh citrus aromas of lemons, tangerines and grapefruit,
with wormwood, lavender, nutmeg, of course, as befits
the mountains - edelweiss, with tonka beans, amber
and white musk. The real „Glacier Express“ is a citrus-aromatic
fragrance that has a lot of clean air, nature, forests
and freshly fallen snow in it’s bag.
AMERICA ONE 31
A fresh, spicy and woody fragrance that leaves no questions
unanswered! Smart, stylish and quite sexy, the icon
opens with bergamot, madarine and neroli, followed by
a spicy accord of black pepper, cumin, vetiver and cedar
wood, which develops slowly and elegantly, inseparable
from the warmth of the skin. A modern classic fragrance
for men who know exactly where to go. So very special
and pleasant!
SIERRA VISTA 2142
The feel-good elixir is founded on a dry, woody base of
amber, sandalwood and tonka, with notes of lavender and
bergamot mixed in. In addition, a great heart of jasmine,
roses and cedar. A fragrance with which men already
know in the morning: This will be my day! Or maybe even:
This will be my year! A fragrance for every occasion,
unobtrusive, elegant and simply outstanding.
KRIGLER LIEBER GUSTAV 14
Like a caressing for the soul! When the velvety-rough
florality of lavender and geranium combines with the dark,
tart-sweet nuances of leather and tonka bean, sandalwood
and black tea, time stops for a moment and true
love can move in. A statement fragrance for men and
women alike.
With Artwork detail: Light Installation Five Continents - Five Laughers - from Ulrike Bolenz
Photo: Ulrike Bolenz
176 177

HANDOVER OF THE PEACE COLUMN
TO THE INTERNATIONAL CLUB ICAA
IN THE FOREIGN MINISTRY
OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY
BY DIPLOMATIC WORLD INSTITUTE
The ceremonial handover of the Peace Column by the artist
Ulrike Bolenz took place in the presence of Barbara Dietrich CEO
Diplomatic World, Nicole von Vietinghoff-Scheel Curator - Cultural
Diplomacy ambassador and the Chairman of the International
Club at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Edgar A. Gansen.
The presence of the peace column in the International Club
ICAA in the Foreign Ministry in Berlin is of particular importance
because all German diplomats are sent out into the world from
here.
on the one hand the early clergy condemned laughter as unchristian,
and on the other hand, the cause of laughter is not often
depicted in works of Fine Arts like paintings, sculptures, etc.
Nevertheless, several early Masters such as Frans Hals, Rubens,
etc. have been dealing with this subject, lately also Chinese
artists.
The installations and paintings of artist Ulrike Bolenz often contains
social, political and scientific time-critical themes and thus
broach the issue of fears of modern man.
The work of art connects cultures, religions, peoples and
countries within the world community and promotes peace
and prosperity through compassion, care and honesty with
respect for the identity of others.
The Peace Column is on permanent loan to the International
Club in the Federal Foreign Office.
Her artistic works are emotional, touching and thought-provoking.
For twenty years now, the topic of humour - in the expression of
laughter - is already part of the oeuvre of Ulrike Bolenz. In 1996,
an installation of hers, a group of laughing women, was on display
at the famous Berliner Dom, in the following years in French
churches and 2005 in Ghent in the chapel Campo Santo.
THE ARTISTIC WORKS RELATED TO THE SUBJECT
OF “LAUGHTER” BY ULRIKE BOLENZ
The delight, expressed in the art works with the theme of laughter,
Ulrike Bolenz also understands as a resistance against the
human atrocities in our time.
Freedom, understanding, sympathy, soulfulness, optimism,
self-confidence, sovereignty - all positive terms which are understood
in connection to human laughter.
Laughter can be understood as a form of communication between
people, which, in its conflict-reducing effect, encourages
human interactions, creates a community spirit and consensus.
But this positive effect of forming a strong sense of community
also contains a hidden essential anarchic feature of laugh: the
critical questioning of and disrespect for authorities. Thus, authorities
often feel provoked by this openly emotional expression
- as has been demonstrated recently.
The latest tragic situations in the world confirm a fortiori the
topicality of her works and can also be understood as an artistic
effort to preserve optimism and joie de vivre and to reduce fears
of the people.
The artistic work of Ulrike Bolenz includes sculptures and
large-scale installations in a unique photo sculpture technique
developed by Ulrike Bolenz and works on canvas and wood in
oil, acrylic and mixed media.
The subject “laugh” can rarely be found in the history of art, as
Nicole von Vietinghoff-Scheel, Barbara Dietrich and Edgar A. Gansen
Photos: Diplomatic World Institute
178 179

WELCOME TO BELGIUM
THE COUNTRY OF SURREALISM
Wonder, Icons and Origami for Life
At the Abbey of Villers, WONDER is an exhibition by the
“happiest man in the world”, Mathieu Ricard, a Buddhist
monk, writer and photographer. It is an ode to life, where
we can “blend into the vastness of the sky …”
Mathieu Ricard celebrates the beauty of natural sites in
Patagonia, South Korea, Yukon, Iceland, Nepal, the United
States and Tibet.
He invites us to reflect on ecological issues and meditate
about the extraordinary in the ordinary. In brief, to be
enlightened. 32 large format photos presented outdoors.
Wonder, 2 April - 13 June 2021 Abbey of Villers
ICONS is not the latest Apple gadget but the title of an inspiring
exhibition that revisits the long tradition of sacred art. The
exhibition shows a selection of traditional icons from Europe and
Russia with works by 19th and 20th century artists, and discusses
the ways that contemporary artists like Yan Pei-Ming and
Wim Delvoye use iconographic language.
It is curated by Henri Loyrette, former Director of Musée d’Orsay
and Chairman and Director of the Louvre Museum. He reveals
how spiritual dimensions have been integrated into works of art
from Antiquity to the present day.
Icons, 6 May - 24 October 2021 Boghossian Foundation,
Villa Empain - Brussels
180 181

ORIGAMI FOR LIFE — an installation by the Belgian designer
Charles Kaisin in the Royal Museums of Fine Art of Belgium,
Brussels. Thousands of peace doves, carefully folded by the
Belgian public, make up this colourful cloud that celebrates freedom
as we are gradually released from lockdown restrictions.
This monumental installation – 5 meters high by 16 meters long
is a participative artwork that was created by Charles Kaisin back
in March 2020. Kaisin invited the public to make the origamis and
send them to him. For each piece of origami, patrons chipped in
financially to support scientific research for Covid-19. The shape
of a dove was chosen because it is not only one of the easiest
shapes to do but also an international symbol of Peace. The
origami dove is made with a square of recycled paper measuring
21 X 21cm.
*Origami is the art of paper folding. Its name derives from the
Japanese words ori (‘folding’) and kami (‘paper’). Traditional
origami consists of folding a single sheet of square paper (often
with one coloured side) into a sculpture without cutting, gluing,
taping, or even marking it. The Origami for Life installation is
in the great hall of the RMFAB in Brussels until 31st December
2021.
Dr. Pick Keobandith, Founder and Director Inspiring Culture
Photos: Dr. Pick Keobandith
182 183

GALILEO DOESN’T NEED A FACE MASK
TO WELCOME VISITORS AT
ST. ELISABETH - EUROPE HOSPITAL
IN BRUSSELS
I love this 2012 sculpture by my friend Kostis Georgiou. “And
yet it moves”. Kostis Georgiou told me about Galileo: “I admire
things that contradict common sense and anything that disrupts
urban idleness. I refuse to capitulate with things that are
commonly accepted and accomplished. I know deep down that
evolution and the new come through creative questioning, which
is the driving force in the acquisition of knowledge, leading to
universal truth. The motto of my life is: The world’s enigma can
only be solved by violators!
I have called this sculpture GALILEO, in honour of the great
heretical scientist, who dared to challenge what was considered
fact. He and Copernicus demonstrated what everybody refused
to accept: that the earth rotates. And then came the Roman
Inquisition. Galileo is not a naturalistic sculpture, but a form with
altered features that seems to ridicule the notion of formality by
wearing a tie, while he appears to be naked, like truth, mitigating
and turning his gaze to the universe, waiting for it to reveal its
infinite secrets.”
not soft but have a declamatory style, majestically orchestrated,
with bright, frank, unrelenting colour, space inhabited by people
and animals. This theatricality is doubtlessly due to Georgiou’s
years of training and experience.
…Everything is created from beginning to the end in his studio.
He is the only person who touches his sculptural pieces. He tries
to master stainless steel, sheets of iron, aluminium, and more
recently, bronze. He solders, hammers and paints. It is only for
work in bronze that he refers to a founder.
Today he makes new sculptures. They are conceived to become
monumental works installed in towns, making the environment
a more beautiful and pleasant place for the inhabitants. The
three works Phylax, Galileo, Epiphanion are remarkably simple
with great purity of line and a minimalist structure. In contrast,
the Thesis and Stasis, types of strange, almost human, animals,
transport us into a fantastical land, while Motion, Bridge, Dancers
and Acrobats are more lyrical, lively and theatrical. This is doubtless
Georgiou way of transporting us into a new world.
KOSTIS GEORGIOU
Dr. Pick Keobandith, Founder and Director Inspiring Culture
In 1956, Kostis Georgiou was born in Thessalonica, a town
thriving with life and activity, and the second port of Greece.
He went on a quest to find his identity after his secondary
schooling in Athens. He went to Sweden for a short time, then
to Florence to study stage design, and returned to Athens Art
College to study painting and sculpture under Pr. D Mytaras and
Pr. D. Kokkonides. He finished his studies at the Royal College
of Art in London tutored by Pr. Peter de Francia.
Photos: Dr. Pick Keobandith
After his wanderings, Kostis decided to settle in Athens. From
1988 to 1991, he taught painting and stage design at the
L. Stavrakos School of Cinema and worked for the theatre and
Greek television company ERT. During this time he continued to
paint and sculpt. Soon he devoted himself to his art completely,
preferring his work as an artist to more lucrative activities.
It became a necessity for him to create and bring forth forms
from his soul and being. Georgiou loves both painting and sculpture.
He has the incessant need to go from one to the other continuously.
For him, they both express the same tension. They are
184 185

WORLD ART DUBAI
World Art Dubai’s seventh edition concluded earlier in April on a
“the art fair has given me the opportunity to meet and develop an
very high note. The region’s most accessible and affordable retail
amazing bond with my co-curators. It is a blessing to have such
art fair was running under the theme ‘discovering new perspec-
a good understanding and similar aesthetic when it comes to
tives’ which invited visitors to expand their minds and enjoy an
selection of art and activations. We truly have each other’s backs
inspiring world of creativity. More than 250 local and international
and each of us keep inspiring and pushing the other to dream
artists and galleries united to display over 2,000 pieces across
even bigger for the event”.
a range of disciplines. However, one of the most interesting aspects
of the fair is the team of curators which is comprised of
In discussions about the influence and popularity of World Art
3 female curators, all also well-respected artists in their own.
Dubai, Batool felt that “ WAD is the only fair of it’s kind in the
UAE that provides a platform for emerging talent in the region
Batool Jafri, artist, curator and art educator, has produced pow-
in an unbiased manner. Not only that, it provides artists with
erful and poignant work on the subject of the human mind and
tremendous opportunity to meet local and international gal-
soul, while challenging historical and cultural prejudices that
leries and develop collaborations. As far as the popularity is
Petra Kaltenbach, a German fine artist, video artist, graphic de-
be seen in all that is on offer including workshops, to artist talks
lead to the marginalization of certain segments of society. Her
concerned, it is truly an affordable art fair which allows visitors
signer, energy healer and curator, moved to Dubai in 2004 when
and our constant effort in initiating art installations / mini-events”.
body of work also draws on her experiences of growing up in
to interact with art in every manner and acquire pieces for their
the transforming period of this city had just begun. “The process
Elaborating on the strength of the art fair, she told us that “WAD’s
a Muslim society. She draws the viewer to see beyond the veil
pleasure later on. The carefully curated workshops, talks and
from the old into the new inspired me to select transformation as
strength is clearly in the close contact to the artist and in the
and skin of her women and dig deeper and unearth the complex
attractions are all reasons for it’s popularity in the region”.
the core theme of my work.” She shares how in all these years
promotion of artistic talents. In addition, WAD presents various
layers that make us. Her art has always been a journey of looking
she has experienced the magic of the UAE.
categories of artists: emerging artists, solo artists and galleries.
deeper into the human soul; it has been about looking beyond
This means that the presented art not only represents different
what is on the outside and trying to discover the soul that is
“The authentic inner transformation allows humans to step out of
skill levels, but also varies in price, so that there is something for
lurking beneath the layers and the journey it goes through.
the restricted psychological conditioning and mental structures
every budget”.
into freedom, expansiveness and peace of the true nature.” Petra
intertwines her art with technology and has also integrated her
healing abilities into art to mediate positive energies to the view-
I feel at times due to the onslaught of social media and
er. In 2018, World Art Dubai honoured her as the best UAE-resi-
It is my deep concern to improve the quality of the show
digitally available art, the audience may slowly be losing
dent artist, and she was sponsored for one year by Canon.
even further, which means, among other things, to
the joy of experiencing the art up close. There is a certain
increase the level and quality of the art even more and
beauty in visiting a museum or art gallery and spending
Since 2019, she has been the curator of World Art Dubai, one of
to help curate the layout of the exhibitor walls.
time taking it all in, a sort of an aesthetic almost spiritual
the biggest art shows in the Middle East. Her art is not only play-
like experience. It isn’t about taking a selfie in front of an
ful and profound but also transports transformative thoughts in
artwork but rather enjoying the work for what it is.
unusual ways. She even collaborated with the fashion label Roxx
Fashion, and we saw her works on a fashion line i.e. wearable art
Samar Kamel is an Egyptian artist, art curator and author known
at WAD 2020.
for works that examine cultural attitudes towards women and aim
to transform stereotypes through vibrant depictions of the mod-
A Pakistani artist, Batool was awarded the Emirates Woman of
Talking to Petra about the curator’s main influence on the fair, she
ern woman. Having acquired her curatorial certification from the
the Year 2018 in the Art & Culture category, and along with her
felt that “The main aim of the team of curators is to make art tan-
Sotheby’s Institute of Art, Kamel has been the curator for World
role as an art mentor, she is on the panel of curators for World
gible, to involve the visitor, to tear down the wall that often exists
Art Dubai since 2019. She has also undertaken several curatorial
Art Dubai. Talking about her team she was full of praise and said
As a courtesy of KHALEEJ Times
between art and viewer. For this very reason, our influence can
projects in Egypt and the UAE, where she now lives and works.
186 187

I would like to take WAD to a whole different level
bigger & better, introduce more sculptures, more
installations, and make WAD an art festival, when it
comes to art, the sky is the limit! - Samar Kamel
While discussing the effect of the pandemic on her work and
art Samar felt that “the pandemic has hit everyone deep, but
women have different responsibilities. In this case we are talking
about an artist and curator, so she has a greater responsibility
towards her community since art is a tool to represent and reflect
society’s issues. For me it felt like an obligation to give people
hope and act like a beacon of light amidst these scary times of
the pandemic”.
On a lighter note, we questioned Samar about the bridge between
reality and fantasy as she is both an artist and curator,
she told us that “Actually it is true, we swing between two
worlds, and being a curator has given me the opportunity to fulfill
some of the artistic fantasies through suggestions on different
installations, attractions and activations, that sound truly fantastical
on paper but once put into action turn into a breathtaking
concept. However, I manage to step into reality and administer
the fair as a curator and tackle problems when needed”.
When asked about whether a curator does his/her job without
being an artist, all 3 curators were of the opinion that it’s not
a necessity but it makes it possible to bring the two worlds
together more easily if you are.
Talking about the strength of her team she expressed the opinion
that “Though we come from different backgrounds and have different
nationalities, yet I strongly believe being female artists, we
have had a mutual understanding on the vision for our fair and
true team spirit from the very first day and it is has only gotten
stronger over the years”.
While commenting on the future of the art fair, they unanimously
declared that it will only get bigger and better with the coming
years. Plans are already in motion for the next one and they
seem very promising. Looking forward to World Art Dubai 2021.
Photos: World Art Dubai
Samar Kamel
Batool Jafri
Petra Kaltenbach
188 189

PETRA KALTENBACH
German fine artist, video artist, graphic designer,
energy healer and curator
Petra Kaltenbach was active as a qualified graphic designer
(visual communicator) and successful managing director of an
advertising agency in the past, she now dedicated herself to
painting. She has long been researching life and beliefs. She
expresses her observations and impressions in her art.
What are our lives like in the here and now? In our over-digitalised
world, in which there no longer appear to be any certainties,
we humans are increasingly developing the need for the real,
for structures and also for limits. We seek security, contact, and
predictability. We seek roots.
Petra initiated the art and fashion project ‘THE COUTURE
OF ART’, a co-creation with the well-known fashion label
ROXX-Fashion. Here, she takes the observer to a whole new
level by transforming her painted art into wearable art.
Her latest art series is created on colored, mirroring stainless
steel. This material allows the artwork to transform by mirroring
the changing environment, while the pomegranate is the
everlasting ‘darling’ in every motif.
Petra moved to Dubai in 2004 when the transforming period of
this city began. This process from the old into the new inspired
her for her core theme TRANSFORMATION. As a fine and video
artist, graphic designer and energy healer Petra experienced the
special magic of the UAE. The authentic inner transformation
allows humans to step out of the restricted psychological conditioning
and mental structures into freedom, expansiveness and
peace of the true nature.
She has been projecting her transformative thoughts onto the
pomegranate for about 4 years. This divine fruit, for her, is a
symbol that unites the Eastern and Western world, with attributes
that come very close to the main transformative powers: love,
beauty, health, and wealth.
Petra intertwined her art with technology to express her inner
attitude in many creative ways. She has integrated her healing
abilities into her art to mediate positive energies to the viewer.
Shortlisted by the International Emerging Artist Award - IEAA
and accepted with her video for the Burj Khalifa Façade, Petra
Kaltenbach got attention and recognition.
In 2018 World Art Dubai awarded her as the best UAE-resident-artist,
and she was sponsored by Canon for 1 year. Till
today she cooperates with Canon for special projects by using
their UV-printing technology, while mixing it with her painting
strokes. Since 2019, Petra Kaltenbach is part of the curator
team of World Art Dubai, one of the biggest art shows in the
Middle East.
Petra’s art is not only playful and profound, but also transports
transformative thoughts in very unusual ways. For example,
190 191

GENIA CHEF
NIBELUNGENLIED EXHIBITIONS
LANDESMUSEUM LIECHTENSTEIN - VADUZ
19. November 2020 - 23. May 2021
SIEGFRIED MUSEUM - XANTEN
12. June 2021 - 18. July 2021
SCHLOSS DRACHENBURG - KÖNIGSWINTER
24. July 2021 - 24. October 2021
SCHLOSS SAYN - BENDORF-SAYN
10. November 2021 - 19. December 2021
MARKSBURG - BRAUBACH
2. April 2022
BURG PFALZGRAFENSTEIN - KAUB
5. June 2022 - 12. June 2022
SCHLOSS HARBURG - HARBURG
23. October 2022 - 6. November 2022
KULTURMODELL BRÄUGASSE - PASSAU
18. November 2022 - 11. December 2022
KOKOSCHKA HAUS - PÖCHLARN
16. March 2023 - 16. April 2023
PALAIS PALFFY - INTERNATIONALES
PHANTASTEN MUSEUM WIEN
24. June 2023 - 30. July 2023
MUSEUM BURG ESZTERGOM -
NATIONALMUSEUM UNGARN -
BUDAPEST
August 2023
NIBELUNGENMUSEUM - WORMS
23. July 2022 - 28. August 2022
WWW.GENIACHEF.DE
192 193

Maestro Yuri Bashmet opens his heart to us during this exclusive
interview. He is the heart and soul of the Winter International Arts
Festival in Sochi from 18-28 February 2021.
Every year, Sochi hosts the Winter International Arts Festival.
As an expert of cultural diplomacy, permanent member of Peace
50 community, I always fly from Belgium to Russia to take part in
the event. For several times already, I managed to communicate
personally with Maestro Yuri Bashmet. He is Virtuoso Musician,
Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of the New Russia State
Symphony Orchestra, Ambassador of Russian Season. He is not
only the founder but also the real heart of the Winter International
Arts Sochi Festival.
This time, I asked the maestro about what I had long wanted to
learn about. I was encouraged by the fact that his daughter, a
talented pianist, performed on stage as well.
STUDIES SHOW THAT A SHARED MUSICAL
EXPERIENCE IMPROVES THE QUALITY OF THE
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARENTS AND CHIL-
DREN, ESPECIALLY WHEN THIS OCCURS DURING
EARLY CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE. WOULD
YOU SAY THAT THIS WAS TRUE FOR YOU?
It’s a complicated subject. I’ve mixed feelings. Because one
good point is when children have been listening from their
early infancy, like their parents they will have been practising in
good homes, getting ready, going to concerts all dressed up.
They’ll notice details to which we no longer pay attention, but as
children they notice much more, it’s a rich experience for them.
Every day they are listening, preparing, building their foundations.
This is a good thing but when children don’t live in a musical
family, it is also good because then, when the parents suddenly
understand that their child has an interest in music (doesn’t matter
which kind), then it’s also positive because the parents can
encourage it with a lot of attention, money and energy going into
something, that shows an interest in their son or daughter.
My daughter had very very good teachers; it is very important
who teaches children from early on. The connection between
teacher and child, that too is important - there is a very important
triangle: the parents-teacher-and child. My son, when I asked
him many years ago why he stopped going to one professor,
who was very good for children, he said that he didn’t like him
because he smoked and because he spluttered when speaking,
MAESTRO
YURI BASHMET
and that is why finally, he didn’t play the violin! For instance,
when I took private lessons with a professor for harmony, I loved
going to his lessons twice a week because I loved the smell of
his cigarettes! So it’s very subjective and I wasn’t even a smoker
at the time!
Now, regarding the connection between father and daughter, I
saw a bad example where a father conducted and his daughter
played the piano and I felt uncomfortable in the hall watching and
listening to this. I wondered why he did it because she wasn’t
playing well. For children who have a famous family name, or a
famous father or mother, going on stage is three-times heavier.
This daughter played well technically but she was not gifted at
all musically and because of that for many years I didn’t put my
daughter on stage with me. It was a big mistake but one I made,
and then I met a professor in a conservatory and he said, “ Yuri,
why don’t you play the Ravel concerto with your daughter? She’s
the best Ravel of my pupils and she plays beautifully, you have
an orchestra - why don’t you play Ravel with her” and that was
when I opened my eyes and then we began to play often. We
played Ravel and then many, many, other things. It’s very complicated…
the first year when she was on stage with me conducting
I was especially nervous that something might happen, but
then I understood that she is a very good professional player and
she’s musical and she’s an artist. Most of the time I don’t know
where she’s playing, or whom she’s playing with. She plays with
me for about 5-10% of her activity. Other times she plays in other
towns, chamber music, solos… She’s not a young girl any more;
she has 2 children, the older one is 14 years old and he already
plays the violin very professionally.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE DIVIDE
BETWEEN THE WORK OF CONTEMPORARY
COMPOSERS AND SO-CALLED “BEAUTIFUL”
CLASSICAL MUSIC? HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT
THE PUBLIC’S PERCEPTION OF THIS?
I think experiments with modern music by new composers are incredibly
important for the general perspective of not necessarily
“beautiful”, classical music. This is the direction taken in various
festivals, not just Sochi. Special new pieces are commissioned
for the festivals. We try everything.
Whether the public follows is not so important for me. Tickets
can be sold two years before a concert so they’ve already
paid! It doesn’t matter if it’s good or bad. The public knows that
nobody knows what is going to be played including us! There is
an unbreakable rule that we will play whatever the composer has
written at least once. We never know if it will be a masterpiece.
Look at Schubert, Beethoven, Mozart, Haydn… they wrote many
things but how many of these are actually played? Beethoven’s
1st Symphony is still Beethoven but his “hit” - the piece people
have loved for years and years - is the 3rd Symphony. Even
Stradivarius, he made more than thousand violins but not all of
them are top grade. It’s like life. One period can be highly successful
and another just fairly good. Look at Tchaikovsky! What
do people listen to by him? The 4th, 5th and 6th Symphonies.
Only very rarely will you hear the 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Very rarely.
Even in Russia.
So we never know what will be an eternal masterpiece by a
composer and what will be standard grade. But we do make the
promise to all composers that if they write, their pieces will be
performed in the festival. And then life will decide which piece
will remain in the festival for many years.
Here in Sochi we performed “The Petit Prince” which has been
tremendously successful, - now festivals all begin with this. It
was created here more than 3 ½ years ago. In Moscow and in
other towns it has a 100 % success rate and packed audiences,
being played twice a month in most places and always sold out.
Always. With no special promotion. It’s like Beethoven’s 5th! It
was really appreciated by the Japanese ambassador although
when I asked him about the story, he said he thought it was very
strange!
MUSIC IS A GENUINELY INTERNATIONAL
LANGUAGE BUT AT THE SAME TIME IT IS
ROOTED IN LOCAL AND NATIONAL CULTURES.
TO WHAT EXTENT DO YOU FEEL YOU ARE
REPRESENTING YOUR COUNTRY WHEN YOU
PERFORM AROUND THE WORLD?
These days, I really don’t think I represent my country. Maybe
when I was beginning in 1976 in competitions - then I really
represented my country. But now the most important thing is the
composer and his view, what he puts into a piece and the atmosphere
he creates. There’s a big difference between what you
want when you’re practising and what actually happens. Will you
get the result you want? Another thing is success. These 2 different
things can sometimes go together and that is ideal - when
you get what you’re aiming for. Sometimes you don’t achieve
this, it’s still considered a success but you didn’t get what you
wanted. It doesn’t matter. Finally, if you do achieve what you
wanted, then it is the most dangerous moment. Because harmony
can be good once but if you try to repeat it in the same way,
maybe the second time it will only be almost as good, the third
time less so, then less and less good the more it’s repeated.
Music consists of sounds with meaning - just one note can be
sad or tragic - and time, which is always moving - what can you
do in 1 minute - more or less? Music is like that. What you do today
in 23 minutes can be 19 minutes tomorrow, and 25 the next.
It depends on you and the musicians on the stage. Sometimes
after the change on stage of an instrument - a piano for example
- the musicians start to lose speed. You also have to count
the time you have to follow the programme. In many countries,
in Europe for example, after the first movement the organisers
will ask “please don’t begin immediately - can you wait because
the people who arrived late need to enter?” But at the same time
this pause between the movements, which appears to be a small
detail, changes the form of the music for us. I understand why
they do it, but it might be better to begin later!
When the Sochi festival started, it was very small with 3 classical
concerts and gradually it became bigger and bigger. Our connections
now with international compositors are very important.
The general goal for this festival is for it to be pleasant, to meet
people and do things together. It is a lot of pleasure but mainly it
is special because although other festivals exist like ours, there
aren’t many that have everything (theatre, ballet, jazz, master
classes…). But the most important thing is that people know that
my compositions will be performed to a high standard. My musicians
learn seriously, they discuss the pieces and learn them.
They’re not just written with nobody understanding what they’re
about. The quality is already very good, world premium.
Some pieces, at least 5 or 6, have been made here and will
continue living, which is very good as it means I like them and
the audience likes them. We are doing a musical now, which is
very special, quite different to the American musicals, and the
text is very important. We’ve found actors who can sing. It’s only
the second time – the first was three weeks ago in Moscow. That
was the world premier and this will be the Sochi premier!
Dr. Pick Keobandith, Founder and Director Inspiring Culture
Photo: Dr. Pick Keobandith
194 195

FESTIVE LAUNCH OF
THE BRUSSELS-UZBEKISTAN
FRIENDSHIP GROUP
At a small reception held on Monday, 22 March at the Embassy
of Uzbekistan in Brussels, a new initiative – the Brussels-
Uzbekistan Friendship Group – was launched, coinciding with the
Navruz holiday, symbolising the arrival of spring, the awakening
of nature and life, renewal, rebirth and prosperity. At the reception,
guests enjoyed traditional Uzbek cuisine, a photo exhibition
about modern Uzbekistan and an exhibition of national modern
clothes designed by a new clothing brand – Silk & Cotton –
which show all the depth, versatility and luxury of Uzbek ikat.
The ceremony was hosted by H.E. Dilyor Khakimov, Ambassador
of Uzbekistan to the EU and the Benelux countries. Distinguished
attendees included Peter Burian, EU Special Representative for
Central Asia; and Fulvio Martusciello, Member of the European
Parliament and Chair of the Delegation for Relations with Central
Asia. Representatives from the diplomatic community, businesses,
think tanks, friends of Diplomatic World and Uzbek diaspora
were also present.
As the country continues in its ambitious journey of political,
economic and social reform and modernisation, this newly established
Friendship Group sees as its main task to accompany and
support Uzbekistan on its way into the future, and perhaps most
importantly to bring Uzbekistan to a wider audience beyond
niche expert and policymaking circles through a variety of thematic
activities, which will include analytical research, information
evenings for the general public devoted to tourism promotion,
cultural activities, small-scale conferences etc. A dedicated
website is expected to be launched soon.
The Friendship Group intends to add value to the already existing
initiatives linking Belgium, the EU and Uzbekistan (such as the
Europe-Uzbekistan Association for Economic Cooperation or the
Belgium-Uzbekistan Parliamentary Friendship Group) by focusing
on bringing the EU and Uzbekistan closer in the cultural, artistic,
tourism and academic domains, strengthening people-to-people
dialogue and linkages in the process.
The co-founders of the Friendship Group very much look forward
to cultural exchange and joint projects, especially in this year
2021 which is so special for Uzbekistan. Not only are we celebrating
the 30th anniversary of independence but also presidential
elections will be held in October.
The team of the Brussels-Uzbekistan Friendship group has been
engaged for many years with Uzbekistan. After a lengthy
absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we look forward to
once again directly engage with our partners and stakeholders
in Uzbekistan this year; as well as to actively participate in
high-level forums scheduled to take place, such as Central
Asia-South Asia Connectivity Conference to be held in Tashkent
and the Cultural Forum ‘Central Asia at the Crossroads of
Civilizations’ due to be held in Khiva later this year with the
support of UNESCO.
Barbara Dietrich, CEO, Diplomatic World & Co-founder,
Brussels-Uzbekistan Friendship Group
Alberto Turkstra, Project Manager, Diplomatic World &
Co-founder, Brussels-Uzbekistan Friendship Group
196

NEW IN MUNICH
ONEBAVARIAHOMES
Relies on timeless, elegantly simple interiors
designed by Matteo Thun and sustainability
Nicolas A. Rauenbusch lays the foundation stone with the
“OneBavariaHomes” in Munich for a new sustainable apartment
hotel chain
The “OneBavariaHomes” in the heart of Munich near the
Theresienwiese with a view of the Bavaria is the new stylish
address for temporary apartments, whether for a short or long
stay. Star designer Matteo Thun was on hand to advise on the
conception and of course the newly built apartments were also
fully equipped with his furniture.
With the hand-made furniture, lamps, accessories, wallpaper,
carpets and bathrooms from Matteo Thun’s construction kit, and
his affiliated workshops, a completely new, contemporary feelgood
atmosphere with an alpine touch was created. Because
Matteo Thun’s credo is: to work with the genius loci and thus
respect the soul of the place in order to pursue a multicultural,
sustainable approach.
“Maria”, “Sissi”, “Theresa”, “Leni”, “Florian”, “Alois”, “Franz”
- the apartments of the “OneBavariaHome” were named after
traditional Bavarian first names. The size of the apartments varies
from 25 to 60 square meters - ideal for one to five people.
But not only the naming, also the design of the apartments followed
the regional heritage. Completely subject to the principle
of sustainability, easy-to-recycle, natural and resource-saving
materials were primarily used when furnishing the rooms. Wood
plays a major role in this, because wood breathes, calms, gives
warmth and stores CO2. Above all, the new apartments impress
with their timeless, elegant simplicity. Originally the building was
a Ludwig Beck department store from 1970. Now, as part of a
complete redesign, the “OneBavariaHomes” was created.
This first project for long-term and short-term guests is also
the cornerstone for further projects: TwoBavariaHomes,
ThreeBavariaHomes in Munich or other cities are to follow.
www.onebavariahomes.com
Photo: OneBavariaHomes
198

THE NEUROSCIENCE OF EMOTION
AND QUALITY IN THE PERCEPTION
OF BEAUTY IN ART
PIETER BRUEGEL AND ADRIAEN BROUWER
Jan De Maere
University of Art and Design, Cluj-Napoca
THE NEUROSCIENCE OF EMOTION
Emotions are seen here as initially pre-cognitive processes,
emerging to consciousness. They can lead to feelings, action
Emotions are based on complex data-cues of the brain’s memory
potential and bodily expression, wanting to be shared (De Maere
in search for a meaningful harmony in the prefrontal zone
2011, 68-91). This is best understood in terms of a ‘neural activ-
(De Maere 2018, 27-29). Emotion activates desire and modulates
ity taking place in the whole living body’. As people appraise all
its intensity (anterior Cingular gyrus) and is in need of impulse
events in terms of pleasure or harmfulness, they engage with rel-
control (craving suppression network). Interdictions by social
evant possibilities for expressing themselves through a multitude
conventions and religion always tried to control passion, sexu-
of action potentials. This leads to a spontaneous engagement
ality and desire. We educate our emotion unconsciously by the
with their environment in function of their intuitively perceived re-
interpretation of our sensorial bodily sensation and the reaction
lation between the mood, the intuitive narrative about their ‘self’
they provoke in others. Moreover, volatile pheromone-receptor
and the situation (bias, inference, knowledge, experience).
molecules allow extra-sensorial communication. Different emotions
use different neural networks.
Darwin was convinced of the invariability of human emotions,
but he was wrong. They have a history through their epigenetic
The experience of beauty is a brain-born ‘true’ illusion, but it
does not support lies or deception. Therefore, (discovered) fakes,
evolution in each of us. Influenced by society and time, genes are
in a state of constant reconstruction. The interdictions issued by
Jan De Maere
pastiches and copies are felt as a form of cognitive decep-
social convention and religion always controlled desire and sexu-
before acceding to consciousness; an existential consent to life,
in Rome, 98-55 BC) contradicts Plato’s (born in Athens 427 BC)
tion. The observation of a painting rendering a sitter’s emotion
ality. Historically, desire was seen as the prelude for debauchery.
without having to lie. Therefore, even if ‘beauty as an experience’
ideal vision, emphasizing the bodily experience. Lucretius’ vision
provokes a reaction in the beholder’s brain. The intensity of it is
Early Christian eremites refused to submit to sexual desire and
is an illusion of the brain, it does not support lies or deception.
found an echo in William Shakespeare’s words: ’Love is blind’.
related to the verisimilitude and the quality of the rendering. The
emotion.
Paraphrasing Spinoza, we could consider the art experience as
perception of other people ‘s emotion activates our mirror-neu-
a generous active joy, initially free of knowledge, a ‘true illusion’
It advises not to surrender to the magic of this disastrous desire,
rons. Amygdalae communicate with the fusiform face area,
The word ‘emotion’ appears only in the XVIth century. Montaigne
of the brain. The experience of beauty is subjective and instinc-
destroying the ‘Ataraxis’ (serenity), the ultimate goal of Antique
dedicated to face recognition. Therefore, perceived emotion
writes:” L’émotion m’affaiblit, m’abaisse, mais si je l’analyse,
tive. Embodied in the brain, it is more than a social construction.
wisdom. Plato writes in ‘the Banquet’: ‘love leads to the knowl-
conveys meaningful feelings to the observer, based on our inter-
elle m’enrichit aussi”.In the XVIIIth century, control of emotion is
Not determined by ideology or discourse (bias), it is born out of
edge of the good and the truth, the unique knowledge of eternal
nal models, built by experience.
the main subject of the ‘Manuels de Savoir-Vivre’. Men ques-
cerebral and visceral experiences linked to our memory. Since
beauty, by its desire for eternity as a final vanishing point’. Love
tion their emotions as a corner stone of their identity, they write
our subjectivity is mediated to others by gestures, words and
accesses eternity in part, because it’s the desire for what fails
Affective neuroscience (Anderson, Adolphs 2018) studies as well
‘Mémoires’.Our sensibility is linked to our neural parameters
images, semiotics studies its content, psychology its manifesta-
us. Plato’s enemy, Aristophanes, tells the story of men conceived
the biological (from genes to synapses) as the environmental
modified by life experience time and social culture.
tions and neuroscience explores its physiology.
as spheres, cut in halves by Zeus. Descartes repeats this idea
factors of the brain activity. What we consider as ratio is not
of love as the sentiment of being incomplete without the other.
impartial. There is a strong correlation between our conceptual
We create our emotions based on how we learn to interpret
Why do we crave for love? The Athenian poet Agathon (445-405
Emil Cioran described the aspiration for love as ‘fear for solitude
knowledge memory and our capacity to recognize emotions.
bodily sensations through our senses. But, also un-consciously:
BC) celebrates his theater play trophy of 416 BC by organizing
of which love creates the illusion of an answer’: ” Nous aimons
Our argumentations suffer from confirmation bias, allowing us
volatile pheromone-receptor molecules allow extra-sensorial
a banquet (To Symposium). This inspired Plato’s dialogues (380
par besoin que quelqu’un nous connaisse jusqu’au bout, par
to function in society. Language is the neural abstraction of
communication. Neuroscience reveals that we do not experience
BC) in which Eryximachus, a medic, praises love as a relation
désir d’échapper à notre propre intimité, par peur que, sans
our connection to emotion, enabling us to communicate about
the world directly, but by building mental models that help us to
between men and the gods. He makes a distinction between
témoin la pensée ne s’élève verticalement au ciel pour, ensuite,
our sensorial experiences. The mind creates controlled rational
define what happens to us. This is a learning process, initiat-
good and bad Eros: the first brings abundance and health, the
s’effondrer sans écho”. Without being loved, we are expulsed out
processes, but 99% of its activity consists of automatic non-con-
ed even before birth. Emotion is the result of our adaption to
other, excess. This concerns not only love but also everything
of our selves. Love is tragic, since it dies with us. Neuroscience
scious processes (reflex). Therefore, neuroscience considers
perceived changes in our bodily state. Different emotions have
that seeks something else. The conflict Eros creates, is solved by
explains the physiology of this emotion.
free-will almost as a neural illusion.
different neural networks. Joy is an emotion, born unconsciously
the establishment of love and concord.Lucretius (pupil of Epicure
200 201

Neuroscience confirms its ontological unity of brain and body,
larities of the local environment. Gradually higher reasoning and
superseding our expectations by the making of assumptions,
tion to beauty is not a human privilege, but feelings are a gift of
without reducing emotion to its psychological and physiological
the control of urges (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, DLPFC) devel-
based on our internal model, built by experience.
our human evolution. There is no declared experience of beauty
aspects. It sees: ‘the mind as a brain-born product, a fundamen-
op until age 25. This allows better decisions and choices taking
without emotion, attention, expectation and desire, inducing the
tal expression of the human spirit that reflects our evolutionary
in account other people’s differences, by suppressing selfish
Therefore, beauty is not just in the eye of the beholder, but also in
bodily expression of it.
nature. Neuroscience demonstrates the neural correlation of the
craving when necessary.
the eyes of his friends. We knew that all individuals tend to con-
experience of beauty, a specific physiology of the observer’s
firm believes and attitudes of others, out of a public compliance
brain (De Maere 2011, 597-607), an activity in neural reference
Emotions are complex data-cues of the brain, connected to a
with social norms. But there is more than this ‘politesse’ to it.
spaces observable by f-MRI (functional-magnetic-resonance-im-
great number of neural clusters, combining data in a hierarchical
The study in f-MRI of the ‘Theory of Conformitythrough the rating
aging) in real time: linking patterns of abstract stimulus features
way by processing the input of our senses. Visceral emotion
of attractiveness of faces’ by Jamil Zaki & others, indicates that
to action tendencies, influenced by contextual variance. A
is even present in simple organisms of life and is necessary to
people are strongly biased by group expectations and by their
goal-directed mechanism refines and regulates then the initial
make decisions. It depends not just on bodily changes, but also
peers’ supposed judgments. The latter change the value rating
action tendency). Only when a constellation of stimuli is ap-
on the context provoking those changes and on the brain’s inter-
of those faces, shown to them before they knew the group’s
praised as leading to the representation of a valued outcome, it
pretation of it. Emotions activate the intensity of desire and crav-
appraisal.
initiates emotion.
ing (such as for hunger, alcohol, tobacco and sex), by activating
a specific area: the anterior cingular gyrus. The balance of our
This experience modulated the engagement in two brain areas
Neuroscience explains the relative validity of the result of the
impulse control is the outcome of the battle between the craving
coding ‘subjective value’: the nucleus accumbens and the orb-
observation and the limits of the judgment based on it. Per-
network and the craving suppression network.
itofrontal cortex, assigned to stimulate the private acceptance of
ception of a painting as ‘Art’ is more than the electrochemical
social norms. We observe also this phenomenon in the art mar-
activity of our synapses, though they are nevertheless a neces-
Emotion, aspiring to be shared, is controlled in the prefrontal
ket. A great number of collectors by with their ears (aura) instead
sary condition of all mental activity’ (De Maere 2011, 597-607).
zone and computed bottom-up and top-down all over the cortex.
of with their eyes (emotion).
Without the embodiment of our innate stimulus-driven emotion it
Emotion is a complex combination of the activity of the limbic
Our instinct for neural beauty has many fancies, of which the
is impossible to transform information into knowledge. Emotion
system, associated with memory and stimulated by different
The over abundant media coverage of obtained top prices for
love of artful beauty is a special one, correlated with a distinct
is generally seen as the anti-pole of rationality and functionali-
types of neurotransmitters. In combination with other neurotrans-
art, strengthens this even more.Only the members of the group,
physiology. Experiments by Semir Zeki and Tomohiro Ishizu in
ty; but it is functional selective, although not in an optimal way
mitters, oxytocin and arginine-vasopressin are acting on social
more central and more self-assured (such as connoisseurs), are
the Welcome Laboratory of Neurobiology (UCL) examined the
(Moors 2017). Otherwise, it would not have such an impact on
bonding.
more likely to dare to dissent, because their critical observation,
physiology of the experience of declared beauty by IRM-f. They
our consciousness. Facial and bodily expressions communicate
identity and domain knowledge are more solid.
observed a physiological distinction (in mOFC) correlated to its
a meaningful essence, seen in a proprioceptive context.
Oxytocin is a “mechanism-strengthening” neurotransmitter, acti-
gradient climax. Therefore, a faculty of beauty exists, not de-
Through it they generate feelings, mental states and behaviours
we consider as private affects. Emotions and their subsets are
goal-directed mechanisms (motivational salience), individuated
vating the amygdala, which deliver signals when danger occurs.
In function of the social context and information, it stimulates
empathy and affection in the group or hostility and aggression
when a threat is perceived. Adrenaline, serotonin and dopamine
NEURAL BEAUTY AS A SPECIFIC COGNITIVE-
PERCEPTIVE EMOTION AND TRUTH
pendent on the modality through which it is conveyed.
It can be activated by the input of different senses, such as visual
sources, music and even mathematics. There is a linear relation-
by the strong (relative to the degree of arousal) causal relations
push cortisol levels up, creating a nice stress in the nucleus
So, personal taste and love of art are linked to empathy and
ship between the strength of the BOLD-signal and the declared
between our specific appraisal programs, representations and
accumbens.
social influence. We have seen that, the art experience is a sub-
intensity of the experience of beauty. All objects that appear
information. The neuro-chemical fluctuations of all emotion
jective emotion linked to the experience of beauty, an expression
beautiful to a viewer have a single brain-based characteristic in
diminish the activity of the behaviour control systems (pre-frontal
of our personal taste. Subjective states triumph over objective
common. One cortical area of the emotional brain, located in
cortex). Our link to reality is indirect, creatively created by the
ones, since they are linked to our creative brain. Imagination is a
the medial orbito-frontal cortex (mOFC) and specially in its Field
brain in function of the context. The mental image we form sub-
special process linked to our senses. It co-opts easily any part
1, changes the strength of its activity during the experience of
jectively of it, is biased by experience, inferences and self-per-
of the brain responsible for direct experience. A certain attrac-
musical and visual beauty.
ception. Some representations are non-consciously selectively
enhanced and other suppressed, based on prior experiences.
Giacomo Rizzolatti observed in subjects, naïve to art criticism,
Neuroscience investigates how the brain becomes aware of our
neural correlates of hedonic response to a visual esthetic expe-
emotions and how we appraise perceived emotion.
rience, revealed by modifying proportions of classical sculpture.
A second experience, the comparison of classical sculpture with
Two million synapses are formed every second in an infant’s
photos of young athletes, confirms that a biologically based
brain at age two. Then starts the neural ‘pruning’; only synaps-
significant configuration in that area (including lateral occipital
es participating successfully in a circuit are strengthened. A
gyrus, precuneus, prefrontal areas and the right anterior insula)
four-year-old child develops the faculty of understanding the
activates the relevant sensory areas.
representation of the self as distinct to the others. Therefore, it is
The perception of other people’s emotions requires the activation
able to feel empathy, respond to craving and frustration and to
of a number of brain areas and the activity of ‘mirror-neurons’.
This leads to the arousal of an ‘esthetic perception’ as some kind
have feelings.
Amygdala communicates with the fusiform face area, dedicated
of innate privileged activation in a specific brain area, independ-
to face recognition. Also, the medial prefrontal cortex and supe-
ent from the influence of culture and upbringing. This configura-
We develop the sense of self-consciousness by eliminating part
rior sulcus read mood, receiving input from visual and auditory
tion, globally similar in both hedonic experiences, but special for
of the present possibilities (reduction) in function of the particu-
cortices. Art conveys emotions towards meaningful feelings,
artworks (right anterior-dorsal insula), has characteristics, relating
202 203

objective qualities of a stimulus. Its activation can be quantified
electrical spikes (nerve impulses 0,1 volt) lasting 1-2 thousand
Sigmund Freud demonstrated that the intuitive principle of
recovered. Art objects are categorized ‘as such’. This increases
and is therefore objectively identifiable as such. Aesthetic per-
of a second. These triggers the release of signaling chemicals
pleasure is psychologically balanced by the principle of reality.
activity in the occipital lobe, the inferior and middle temporal
ception of art leads to artful emotion and feelings.
(neurotransmitters), which alter the pattern of spikes generated
The latter adapt pleasure to consciousness, attention, curios-
lobe, IPL/intra-parietal sulcus, pre-SMA and in deep structures
by the receiving neurons, mediating excitation or inhibition. They
ity, judgment, memory, the birth of ideas (etc.), in function of
as the hippocampus, amygdala and bilaterally in the insula; but
We have seen that specialized treatment zones and neurons with
can also initiate slow metabolic processes in neurons, changing
auto-preservation of the subject and context. Perceptive beauty,
also, higher in the anterior sector of the right dorsal insula (linking
a special function handle brain functions. There is a functional
the lasting strength of synaptic connections. They initiate also
cognition, sentiments and ideas are looking for the ephemeral
emotion to cognition), the right thalamus and the right superior
specialization in the physiology for judgment. Aesthetic judg-
the switching on/off of genes.
neural harmony or “stabilized ambiguity” in the brain.
temporal sulcus.
ments are the result of a different brain activity than perceptive
judgments based on cognition. Aesthetic judgments about art
Therefore, the physiology of visual pleasure is linked to the
Its pleasure ends when the harmony (created by the ephemeral
We distinguish two different stages in the physiology of the per-
engage distinct systems in addition to those they share with
liberation of a cocktail of neurotransmitters containing endo-mor-
stabilization) is disturbed. Immediately, neural activity answers
ceptual facilitation of image construction in art experiences.
beauty in nature and other perceptual judgments. The activity
phine, serotonin, dopamine and adrenaline, distributed in a
the perceptive stimuli by affect, which creates acceptance or
*First there is a bottom-up hedonic response through observation
of affective aesthetic judgments correlates with polarizing
number of specialized brain structures (amygdala, hypothalamus
refusal. In a second stage, the hypothalamic structure evaluates
without validation, essentially in the right interior insula and the
experiences, such as love-hate; beauty-ugliness and attrac-
and dopaminergic pathways). Dopamine is distributed twice
and adjusts the answer. When optimal, it creates a harmonious
lateral and medial cortical areas (lateral occipital gyros, precu-
tion-repulsion.
during the art experience. Firstly, when anticipating pleasure,
proprioception without any additional desire. The observer is as
neus, prefrontal areas). *Immediately followed by the orientation
and secondly, when it arrives. The love of art acts as an indirect
absorbed by the beautiful object, reducing consciousness of the
of attention and a top-down critical aesthetic judgment. When
There is also a functional specialization in the motor pathways of
psychotropic stimulus and creates a mild dependency.
outside world.
an object is seen as art, the brain’s need for object identification
the bodily expression of judgments: perceptual judgments and
reduces, because it is aware that an art object does not have to
esthetic judgments engage in part the same pathways, but the
All declared beauty produces a common pattern of activation
How does the activity in different zones of the brain conclude
equal reality.
esthetic one activates also a special one. The declared intensity
in the midbrain reward center created by incoming perceptive
what we like or dislike? Our brain tends to establish hierarchy
of the experience of the sublime engages separate and distinct
cues, computed elsewhere in the brain. The communication is
between the integration of stimuli and cues. There is no marked
systems, other than the experience of beauty; and is a coun-
enabled through “membrane receptors”. Specific proteins, fixed
dominance for most of the primordial functions, but for language,
terpoint to it. All states of the sublime overwhelm the beholder,
on neural membranes, permit the activation of neurotransmitters,
handedness and some other functions, this dominance exists. All
reducing his receptiveness to stimuli of the outer world. There-
provoking cascades of intra-cellular reactions, which modify
the brain areas are interconnected with their counterparts in the
fore, a ‘sublime’ experience of nature is other than a high degree
neural activity or act on the protein synthesis. F-MRI experiences
opposite hemisphere by the corpus callosum.
of beauty in art.
and electro-encephalogramsinvestigate the specific physiology
of the “arousal potential” produced by the perception of painted
Each area undertakes its operations with a certain level of au-
The brain restructures itself in response to the visual experience.
masterpieces. Those experiences confirm that they can convey
tonomy. Cells increase or decrease their on-going electrical dis-
The connectivity of neurons changes: new connections are cre-
exceptional visual pleasure by their visual-cognitive coding,
charges in response to the appropriate stimulation. Visual stimuli
ated, older ones abandoned. The interpretation of the raw data
activating the physiology of beauty.
yield a response from the cell (receptive field) and are in need of
as light and color, is affected by the responsiveness of neurons.
categorization. Quality is one of these categories. The simultane-
Banks of neurons in the cortex serve as ‘feature detectors’, each
In f-MRI experiences, art lovers, connoisseurs, artists and even
ous and synchronous firing of a cell registers the orientation of a
array reacting only to particular aspect of the object seen. Even
novices without conscious esthetic ambition, experience at least
stimulus, located at a certain distance, specifying the properties
the chemical communication between connections is susceptible
in a minimal way, some perceptive-cognitive “beauty” when they
of the object.
to change in function of innate skills and those developed out of
create, like, hate, criticize or buy a work of art. Great artists as
experience. Patterns of proteins determine the molecular identity
Picasso and Gerhard Richter confirmed this. This innate instinct
Insula has four functional distinct regions, corresponding to
of brain cells, which initiates or inhibits connections with other
allows the appreciation of old masters as well of Contemporary
sensory-motor, olfactory-gustatory, social-emotional and cog-
cells. Arriving at a synapse, impulses trigger the release of signal-
art. The treatment of emotion, a specific activity of the brain, is
nitive networks of the brain. Socio-emotional aspects activate
ing neurotransmitters.
the trigger, leading to sentiments. Those are conscious expe-
the ventral-rostral part of the insula, which integrates cognitive
riences of this activity. They create feelings, as well as bodily
and emotional processes to create a coherent experience of the
These alter the pattern of spikes (nerve impulse 0,1 volt lasting
experiences such as hunger and excitement.
incoming stimuli. The anterior sector of the right dorsal insula
1-2/1000 sec, at a speed up to 500 kmph) generated by the
plays a fundamental role in the hedonic art experience; and
receiving neuron, mediating excitation or inhibition. In chapter 13,
Our neural sense of beauty realizes itself in the physical world.
explains why art is more than physical beauty alone. The function
those aspects will be explained in detail. Since the experience of
Franck Wilczek’s groundbreaking work in quantum physics and
of specialized sensory parts of the cortex is to act as instant
beauty requires an active collaboration from the beholder, beauty
his intuition to look for a deeper order in nature underneath cog-
categorizers of the stimuli, according to color, texture or taste,
cannot be understood in terms of the characteristics of the
nitive perception, lead him to assume that the universe embodies
etc. This implies the necessary identification of certain invariant
apprehended object, as Leonardo, Vitruvius and Alberti thought.
beautiful forms as a deep ontological logic, to which we are con-
features of form, the reflectance for light of different wavebands
Although, this is not to say that objects may not have character-
nected. This principle is based on the energy-saving integration
(color) according to the property of the object.
istics that qualify them as beautiful.
of harmony, balance, proportion, symmetry, fractal dimension,
complexity and reduction of beautiful form. The subatomic parti-
The enlargement of receptive cell fields is a necessary step
Neurons are the information processing cells of the brain. They
cles that are responsible for most of our mass are determined by
in this integrative process, but it weakens the precision of the
receive messages from other neurons on their cell body and
simple geometric symmetries. Nature and art fulfill our instinctive
position-signalization of the cell. Therefore, it has to refer its
The combined interplay of the valence of cognition and sensorial
their short (dendrites) and long (axons) extensions through the
need for beauty, but this unconscious desire requests more than
information back to an area with a precise topographic map
stimulus-driven emotion (limbic system) evaluates a painting
synapses at their end. Messages are send in coded patterns of
only that. Humans are born hedonists.
(such as V1), so that the precise positional information can be
subjectively. Neuroscience investigates only the experience of
204 205

declared beauty, not what art is or can be today. By his ‘Readymades’,
Marcel Duchamp divorced art from beauty, constituting
‘art’ without the physical intervention of an artist. Nevertheless,
real art lovers buy what they intuitively experience as beautiful,
even when buying Conceptual art. They cannot avoid their
unconscious aesthetic preferences, even when they ideologically
deny the need for beauty. The Contemporary art theory considers
beauty as an outdated XIXth century bourgeois class-distinction.
But all theory about art is only a cognitive bias (top-down) of
the brain.
Except some objective truths linked to facts and science, other
truths, such as experienced in cognitive perception of taste, are
subjective biases we hope to share. Beliefs, information and
theories create expectations about the properties of the work of
art. When an old master collector buys an original, which turns
out to be a fake, he is biased by his or someone else’s opinion.
Many would-be collectors look to paintings with their ears (topdown).
When a wine lover is thrilled after drinking a fake bottle
Lafitte-Rothschild 1970, he is victim of the fake label. Therefore,
labels, price, context and intellectual intimidation are cognitive
biases (observable in f-MRI experiences), inferring unconsciously
on the observation and decisions of people who take random
information for granted.
Artful beauty is as much a feeling of specific harmony, proportion,
emotion, cognition and meaning, activating certain
neural networks, as the sign of what happens to be recognized
as beautiful in a certain culture. Beauty connects ‘engrams’’
with mental representations and the limbic system (reward).
Wired-in-predispositions, anatomical differences and acquired
preferences supersede the simple stimulus-driven phase of
perception. Sight is subjective and partly linked to the specificity
of individual biology and culture. We see in great part what we
expect to see. Even when taste converges, everybody has his
own preferences. Art is more than aesthetics alone, it is also an
‘essential within’. Artful beauty is not bound by formal rules (for
example angularity: people prefer generally circles and curved
forms/ symmetry/ proto typicality/ balance etc.) nor by ideology,
as the history of art demonstrates.
Essential beauty does not need seduction, but truth, a possibility
between others in the chaos of propositions competing for
meaning in the brain. Since art is a form of social communication,
the narrative about its essence does not support lies, but it
is far from an essential truth, since it suffers from incoherencies
and bias. The beholder accepts a beautiful painting as what
he thinks it is. Critical observation might discover its flaws.
Therefore, experts need a critical and open mind to make their
decisions, freeing their observation as much as possible of preconceptions.
They also need extensive domain knowledge and
adequate categories to evaluate the work of art in a comprehensive
way, in the chain of masterpieces that made art history. They
use their experience, training and strategies, better than novices,
using less brain energy by their adequate automatisms. Connoisseurs
educate their intuition and curiosity in an exceptional way,
based on a refined perception, educated by the contemplation of
masterpieces. They prefer harmonious complexity to schematic
simplicity in the way they qualify their doubt.
Photos: Jan De Maere
A tribute
to René Magritte
created by
Jan De Cock
7 - 15
AUGUST
2021
GRAND CASINO KNOKKE
TICKETS & INFO
Detail Group with Laura, artwork Ulrike Bolenz
Photo: Ulrike Bolenz
206
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PHARMA has also been picked up in the field of cancer prevention,
where several leading oncologists and researchers consider
SWIFTPHARMA as a suitable partner for production.
WHY IS THIS PROJECT SO REVOLUTIONARY?
SWIFTPHARMA’s production facility must help to save millions
of human lives worldwide and help authorities to become able to
swiftly address current and future viral pandemic scenarios.
The project includes the construction and development of the
first state-of-the art plant-based lab-factory in the EU (Belgium).
It is the first time that plants would be used as biofactories in
the EU for large volume vaccine production. SWIFTPHARMA’s
patented production process is based upon 2 existing production
methods outside the EU that have been significantly improved by
introducing high level of automation, improving plant biomass/
growth curve ratios and improving expression vectors.
The newly introduced production process offers major economic
advantages by creating synergy, decreasing CAPEX, increasing
capacity, etc. The future production cost for vaccines can therefore
decrease tremendously. Moreover, SWIFTPHARMA’s plantbased
methodology leaves no ecologic footprint and contributes
to environmental friendliness and climate-interests.
In Addition, since mammalian viruses cannot grow in plants, this
project helps to erase contamination risks in vaccine production.
The lab-factory should therefore not include risks for new contaminations
to humans. Consequently, this project should enable
safe mass production of future vaccines and allow all users to
swiftly obtain vaccination at a fair cost.
The current pandemic scenario results in a broad awareness for
the need to become able to swiftly produce vaccines, to rapidly
deploy vaccines also in locations that are difficult to reach, and
at fair price levels. Besides the production of vaccines, the production
methods offered by SWIFTPHARMA can also serve the
following production markets: Antibodies; Enzymes; Cytokines;
Maturogens; and Proteins for cosmetics industry. SWIFT-
PHARMA’s breakthrough innovative solution has also been
picked up in the field of cancer prevention, where leading oncologists
and researchers consider SWIFTPHARMA as suitable
partner for production. Moreover, the solution offered by SWIFT-
PHARMA is based on over 10 years of prior research and is IP
protected.
WHO SHOULD CARE ABOUT THIS PROJECT?
The following actors should with great interest look into this
startup project:
• All entities that are in need for a much more efficient and
safe production method for vaccines, wanting to better meet
the consumers’ interests in reliable and rapid access to safe
vaccines.
• Market operators in the field of Antibodies (Therapeutic and/or
high throughput research grade monoclonal or polyclonal);
• Market operators in the field of Enzymes (Enzyme replacement
therapy, protease inhibitors, universal blood enzymes);
• Market operators in the field of Cytokines (Blood coagulation
factors, growth factors, interleukins)
• Market operators in the field of Maturogens (Scaffolds,
maturogens and materials for 3D bioprinting and biofabrication)
• Market operators in the field of Cosmetics
• Market operators in the field of Agro science
WHAT ARE THE MAIN SHORT-TERM TARGETS ON
SWIFTPHARMA’S INTENDED PROJECT TIMELINE?
The first EU plant-based lab-factory facility should become fully
operational by end 2022. By end of 2023, the facility must be
performing CDMO services for each of the following industries:
Vaccines, Cosmetics, Agro science, Enzymes, Antibodies.
By the end of 2024, the lab-factory facility must have completed
the following phases to develop its own next-gen vaccine technology:
Proof of Concept, pre-clinical phase 1, phase 2 (A&B)
By the end of 2026, the lab-factory facility must bring to the market
a universal vaccine technology for mucosal immunization that
protects against all variants of a corona- or influenza virus, or at
least offer a broader protection against a wide variety thereof.
208 209

DR. DR. MED. DOMINIK DUSCHER
THERE IS EVERY REASON TO BE
CHEERFUL AND HAPPY
Until now, the rule was: You are as old as it says in your pass-
The fact that Duscher has not yet received a professorship,
port. Period. It didn’t change anything if you felt or looked young-
although he works with leading universities and his vita and his
er than 20 years ago, simply because the styling was so bad
work fill entire pages on Wikipedia with impressive findings, is
back then. It was the hour of birth, the entry in the passport, then
due only to one circumstance: his youth and academic regula-
it went up biologically for 25 years - and then actually downhill
tions. Unthinkable in America.
again.
But the, as he is now called, “Longevity Pope”, takes it all with
Genetics dictate it, it cannot be tampered with. But, as contra-
humor. He has now institutionalized longevity medicine in a
dicting as it may seem at first, that’s exactly what is changing
sensational concept and made it usable for all of us. In June his
now! Because now a pioneer, an innovator has set out to take the
Longevity Center Munich opens, the first center for longevity
entire medical world to the next level, to reverse aging and make
medicine in Europe. What groundbreaking things are in store for
diseases preventable. The passports will not (yet) be rewritten,
us here? Be aware because it can be vital for you! So let’s turn
but the way is now free for a healthier, longer, and significantly
back time!
younger life. “Longevity medicine” is the term for it and we are
talking about and with Dominik Duscher MD PhD, a 34-year-old
more than a young luminary.
DR. DUSCHER, LET’S START FROM THE BEGIN-
NING. YOU JOINED THE RESEARCH TEAM AT
STANFORD WHEN YOU WERE 25. HOW WAS THAT?
So far, the discoveries of longevity medicine have
only been reserved for a few insiders.
Dominik Duscher has now made longevity
medicine usable for all of us in a sensational
concept: In June his Longevity Center Munich,
the first center for institutionalized Longevity
Medicine in Europe opens its doors.
I spent three years researching regenerative medicine, wound
healing research, stem cell biology and cell signaling pathways.
A really important time in my life, because I was already a qualified
physician, but had little practical experience. Actually, at
25 years of age, I wasn’t too experienced with anything at all.
So I had to and was allowed to learn a lot there very quickly.
That’s how I learned how to do science at the top international
level, nothing else would have been acceptable at Stanford.
Dr. Dr. Med. Dominik Duscher
Photo Elke Bauer
So I was in the laboratory day and night, whether the sun was
He actually trained in plastic surgery. But as it is the case with
gifted people - they are always looking for new fields of activity
and solutions. So it happened that at the tender age of 25 he
joined the research team at Stanford University in the field of
shining outside or not. That was quite an experience!
I was the youngest postdoctoral fellow in my department at
the time. Stem cell biology has always been a special focus
ARE YOU ON YOUR WAY TO BECOMING A
UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR?
is my goal, maybe for next summer. I have to wait a little longer
respecting academic regulation. Such regimentation in the
academic career are unfortunately typical in this country and
regenerative medicine, for wound healing research, stem cell
of mine and the dysfunction of the stem cell was particularly
I qualified as a lecturer at the Technical University of Munich on
they would be completely unthinkable in America, for example.
biology and cell signaling pathways.
interesting to me. Stem cells do not work as well when they are
the subject of applied regenerative medicine, stem cells and
I will still end up being the youngest professor in my field in all
older, they have problems with their regenerative functionality. I
small molecules. After more than three years as a division head
of Europe if everything goes well.
Then he went on to work as a department head at the Technical
recognized this as a key element of many subsequent issues in
at the Klinikum rechts der Isar in Munich, I am now at the Uni-
University of Munich and now at the University of Tübingen.
our organism. So if you have a stem cell deficit, it will negatively
versity of Tübingen. There I am again working at the department
Today, 10 years after the beginnings in Stanford, stem cell
affect many other things as well. The organism is an organized
of Plastic Surgery, but now I have the task of creating a program
biology has become longevity medicine via applied regenerative
medicine. Because he finds the aging of the body or our cells
so completely unacceptable and has above all found ways and
means to turn back the biological clock, demonstrably by up to
system and it is clear that if the cell, as the smallest building
block, suffers from problems, it must also create problems for the
whole system. Ultimately, at Stanford, the foundation was laid for
everything I do today.
that deals with the practical implementation of regenerative
medicine.
At the Technical University of Munich I was very active on the
“The genes are immutable.
But epigenetics can be changed!
That is a sensation!“
20 years.
cell level and in the basic research area and now, in Tübingen,
it’s more about practical application. To establish a professorship
210 211

ASSUMING THE STEM CELL IS AGING AND THAT
CAUSES TROUBLE, IS THAT NOT THE CASE WITH
EVERYONE? YET IT SEEMS TO POSE A WIDE
VARIETY OF PROBLEMS IN DIFFERENT PEOPLE?
WHAT EXACTLY IS THE REASON FOR THESE
DRAMATIC DIFFERENCES?
The phrase “You are what you eat” comes to mind. Both queen
and worker bee larvae are initially fed royal jelly, which is provid-
It turned out that everything to do with genetics is not as set in
ed by nurse bees. However, the worker bee larvae are quickly
stone as it has long been thought. A great many ideas of predes-
weaned and fed nectar and pollen. In stark contrast, the queen
tination had been put into genetics.
bees are bathed in royal jelly during the entire larval development
and even as adults they continue to feed on royal jelly.
Now, it has only recently been discovered in longevity research
and regenerative medicine that genetics is the hardware above
While form and function are clearly not as strictly determined
which lies another level of software that directs the genome: epi-
by epigenetic phenomena in humans as they are in honeybees,
genetics (epi, greek for on top, above). It controls gene expres-
researchers are increasingly recognizing a role for epigenetics
sion, whether genes are switched on or not.
in human growth, development, and disease. In particular, the
biological cell age can serve as an epigenetically determined
So epigenetic research does away with the absolute dogma that
marker of cell health and can also be used to monitor therapies,
genes alone determine our fate. The latest studies show that our
such as personalized recommendations for nutritional and health
environment actually has an impact on our development. And we
products as well as lifestyle modifications.
could even pass on the qualities gained in this way to our
children and grandchildren. Is the old principle of evolution,
In this way, therapies can be tailored to precisely meet your
known since Darwin, just to be thrown overboard? No. If a wom-
needs. Such a procedure makes it possible for the first time to
an carries a change (mutation) in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
follow the development of one’s (cell)health and to improve one’s
(the most important so-called breast cancer genes known to
lifestyle in a targeted manner.
date), then the development of breast cancer is actually probably
higher.
If familial breast cancer is suspected, a genetic test can detect
CAN EPIGENETICS INFLUENCE GENETICS?
mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and prophylactic
Let me give you another example to clarify, so that you can bet-
breast removal can be considered. So this is a concrete example
ter understand the unbelievable scope of epigenetics: Children
of how relevant basic genetic makeup is to our health. However,
the genes are regulated in a much more complex way than long
who were born in the Dutch starvation winter of 1944/45 tend to
be overweight as adults. Residents of a northern Swedish village
Photo: Elke Bauer
assumed.
lived longer when their grandfathers had little to eat when they
were young. A logical conclusion: the environment of grandfa-
and the machine cannot read at this point. These stop signs, as
to prove an epigenetic influence: animals can be crossed and
A honey bee colony is ideally suited to show the epigenetic
thers and parents affects the health of children and grandchil-
I call them, are partly hereditary again. So if people set positive
manipulated in a controlled manner, but this is impossible with
variation and the interplay of genome and environment in an
dren.
accents in epigenetics or even negative ones, this may pass on
humans. A study on humans cannot therefore be carried out in
impressive way. Although identical in genetic sequence, queen
to the children. You can now say that if I am good and lead a
such a way that a reliable distinction between epigenetic inher-
bees and worker bees are completely different in terms of
How do you explain that? Certainly not through the classic
good life, I could generate a benefit for my offspring.
itance and epigenetic effects is possible. Therefore, a question
behavior, physiology and appearance.
gene model: genes are formed step by step through evolution
of guilt is certainly too short-sighted. What is certain, however,
There are many phenotypic differences between queen bees and
worker bees. For example, queen bees can produce up to 2000
eggs in a day, while worker bees are sterile.
The latter spend their days looking for food, gathering pollen,
tending to the beehive and warding off intruders, while queen
bees have food delivered and eggs to keep the beehive busy.
Queen bees are five times larger than worker bees. Unsurprisingly,
queen bees typically also live 20 times longer than worker
bees. This also shows how important epigenetics can be for
longevity.
and therefore need more than a generation or two to react to a
change in the environment. Nevertheless, environmental stimuli
can immediately intervene in the genetic make-up - by chemically
changing DNA or proteins that adhere to the DNA.
The sequence of the DNA building blocks is not changed, the
blueprint for proteins and enzymes remains the same. Instead,
the activity of the genes changes: it is increased or decreased,
and in some cases the genes are even switched on or off completely.
You can imagine the genome as a helix and the epigenetic
patterns as clothespins that sit on the genome.
And now the body’s own machine that reads the genes comes in
the form of a protein, and then there is this clothespin in the way
THIS PUTS US ALL IN A MUCH GREATER RE-
SPONSIBILITY TOWARDS OUR CHILDREN WHEN
GENETIC MATERIAL SUDDENLY BECOMES CON-
TROLLABLE. WILL WE HAVE TO DISCUSS GUILT
HERE IN THE FUTURE?
A fetus is not completely isolated when it develops in the mother’s
womb: any environmental stimulus that affects the mother
also affects the fetus. So you have to distinguish precisely - between
epigenetic inheritance (transfer from mother to child) and
cross-generational epigenetic effects (imprinting of the fetus in
the womb). This differentiation is particularly difficult in humans:
So far, there are no studies that clearly demonstrate heredity up
is that epigenetic imprinting of our DNA has the greatest impact
and that we should therefore take very good care of our cell
health!
“A reduction in biological age by up to 20 years is
entirely possible. But it is also important that you
feel completely different and significantly better.
There is an immediate increase in performance.
But the greatest benefit comes later in life:
you will expand your health span and lead
a longer healthy life.“
to the third generation. And even if it were, it would be difficult
212 213

at the same time. Biological age is a more accurate parameter of
our health, well-being and lifespan than our chronological age.
Changes in our lifestyle (diet, exercise, quality of sleep and much
CAN YOU ALSO COPE WITH A DISSOLUTE LIFE-
STYLE?
when the cell is stressed, it also switches on the signaling pathway.
This knowledge is now also used in cancer treatment.
more) as well as targeted pharmacological interventions can slow
There is definitely something that can be improved. Of course,
A sensation is a recent discovery: I just read in a very high-quality
down or even reverse our biological aging.
if you constantly sail against the wind, it is also exhausting and
medical publication that if you turn up the HIF signaling pathway,
more difficult to achieve a great result. But instead of doing noth-
Covid viruses cannot penetrate the cells. The cells can then pro-
A reduction in biological age by up to 20 years is entirely possi-
ing, a little something is always better. As I said, what needs to
tect themselves against virus invaders. It is actually completely
ble. The very large delta is of course only possible if patients are
be done must be feasible. You have to get people on board. But
logical, if the regeneration is turned up, decay cannot take place
a bit older. This is not possible in this form for younger people. I
when you log into a system, you have to stick to the measures
at the same time.
can’t bring someone who is 40 back to 20 years.
that were well discussed and defined in advance!
WHY NOT?
The cell works relatively optimal up to the age of 25. Only then
YOU DON’T BELIEVE SO MUCH IN HORMONAL
INTERVENTION. WHY?
IS THERE A POINT OF NO RETURN WHERE YOU
CAN NO LONGER DO ANYTHING, NO LONGER
INTERVENE AND IMPROVE SOMETHING?
do the three essential cell skills renewal, energy production and
I prefer to look at the signaling in the cell. Cytoplasm and
I think you can always optimize, to the bitter end. In longevity
detoxification slowly begin to derail. I myself lead a very stressed
nucleus. In 2013 I identified a so-called “signaling pathway” as
medicine, it is not important that we reach 300 years, but that we
life, with locations in Vienna, Linz and Munich. I hardly have time
particularly important. As the mighty switch that subsequently
get as old as possible and remain as healthy as possible during
for sports and so on. But of course I have other options.
sets whole avalanches of effects rolling. Up to 300 genes are
that journey. That we’re going up the Health Span and not just
activated there. A huge thing. I didn’t discover the signaling path
the Life Span. When we turn 100 and have been in bed for 30
HOW DO YOU REDUCE AGE?
myself, I just discovered how it works in the skin and in our soft
tissues. The discoverers of the signaling pathway recently received
the Nobel Prize for it. (William G. Kaelin, Sir Peter Ratcliffe
years of it, that is not desirable at all. At some point the end of
life will come, but this period of illness at the end must be compressed.
The ideal would be to fall asleep healthy at an old age
With a sophisticated dietary supplement regimen and prescrip-
and Gregg L. Semenza won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2019
and not wake up again. Of course, not everyone can do that. But
tion drugs that I also used to bring myself down to 25.6 years.
for their discovery of the HIF (hypoxia-inducible factor) signaling
we strive for the shortest possible illness phase at the end of life.
I’m not a big fan of hormonal intervention. I don’t like to tamper
pathway).
So postpone everything until it no longer works and then a quick
with the hormone control loop if it is not absolutely necessary
goodbye. This is longevity medicine.
and if there are no specific symptoms. I have a different sys-
So I am already the user of this signaling pathway, the next gen-
tem and different concepts. I am trying to design an individual,
eration of surgeon scientists putting it to practical application.
feasible path that can also be implemented in the daily routine. If
I’ve always looked at how the course is set intracellularly.
Dr. Dr. Med. Dominik Duscher
Photo: Elke Bauer
HOW DO YOU GET ACCESS TO THE EPIGENETIC
INFORMATION?
This is where I come into play as a longevity doctor. I do the
someone has to go out to dinner often, I can’t cancel dinner for
them, for example.
IF IT MAKES ME 20 YEARS YOUNGER NOW, WILL I
THEN LIVE 20 YEARS LONGER?
A key topic that has been with me since Stanford. During my
time at the Technical University of Munich, I was able to prove
that if you optimize this signaling pathway in a diabetic stem
cell, you can turn it back into a normal cell.
With the help of my company Tomorrowlabs I have also discovered
that the hair follicle cells respond positively to this signa-
“A sensation,
a great discovery: I recently learned that
if you turn up this signaling pathway,
Covid viruses cannot penetrate the cells.”
epigenetic test for true biological age with my patients, which is
Statistics and individual cases are sometimes miles apart, you
ling pathway and thus hair loss can be minimized and the hair
sent to a special laboratory in Canada that was previously only
available to universities for research purposes.
know that. But statistically speaking, if you deviate from your age
by about eight years, biologically vs. chronologically, then this already
shows in a halving or doubling of the incidence of disease,
generally strengthened. Backed up by a study, I have been able
to prove that if you turn the molecular switch on, hair growth increases
again. You can actually stop hair loss this way. We have
CAN THAT ACTUALLY BE ACHIEVED?
I think it can be achieved. However, only through consistency
The uncomplicated saliva test including evaluation and discus-
because you have a higher risk of getting sicker with increasing
implemented this knowledge in the Tomorrowlabs Hair Restora-
and under medical supervision. But then a lot is possible.
sion of results costs around 450 euros, so not a prohibitive price
age. So you have a serious benefit if you intervene here. I have a
tion products.
point I feel. We determine the cell age and the condition of the
cell. The biological age can differ quite a lot from the chronological
age (the age in the passport). Depending on whether the biological
age is above or below the chronological age, the lifestyle
can be assessed and, if necessary, consequences for changes
can be drawn.
lot of very well-known people who come to me, including managers
of Europes largest companies, where I have been able to
significantly reduce their biological age.
For these often younger people in their forties and fifties it is
important to feel completely different and significantly better
YOU MENTIONED THE DIABETIC CELL. SO THE
SIGNALING PATHWAY ALSO APPLIES TO OTHER
DISEASES?
HOW LONG DOES MEASURABLE IMPROVEMENT
TAKE?
With the right regimen along the longevity pyramid of lifestyle,
nutritional supplements and medication, measurable cellular
through longevity medical interventions. The energy level is
Yes, of course it has many other implications. We researched it in
rejuvenation can already occur after 3 months. You see: many
A follow-up test can be used to check the effects of the efforts
different. There is an immediate increase in performance. But the
the cosmetic field; after all, I’m a plastic surgeon by training. But
factors have profound effects on our cell skills, which in turn can
and the effects on the aging process. The epigenetic age diagno-
greatest benefit comes of course later in life - you will expand
HIF is actually the master of regeneration. It is also the oxygen
directly influence our longevity. The complex cell-organ-organism
sis offers an impulse for change and positive feedback
your health span and lead a longer healthy life.
sensor - the cell can detect the levels of oxygen supply. And
system is full of miracles. And although some influencing factors
214 215

pose a threat to our health, there are also opportunities for optimization
through targeted measures that are in our own hands.
WHAT ABOUT BURNOUT, ARE THERE OPPORTU-
NITIES TO INTERVENE?
Longevity medicine is ultra-personalized precision medicine or in
“Aging is a disease and therefore deserves
treatment. As doctors, we have only treated the
symptoms of aging so far. But we have to deal with
the underlying mechanism that leads
to the symptoms.“
SUCH A SUM IS OF COURSE NOT AFFORDA-
BLE FOR EVERYONE. BUT SHOULD LONGEVITY
MEDICINE ALSO EXPAND AND BE ACCESSIBLE
TO EVERYONE AT SOME POINT? IS THAT BEING
PLANNED?
That is absolutely in planning! I myself have a lot of engagements
and consulting activities. In addition, there are my own products
“I have been researching the regulation of cell regeneration
for almost ten years now. I am particularly
fascinated by the sensor in our cells, which not only
recognizes how much oxygen is currently required, but
also controls a large number of feedback loops for our
other words high-tech preventive medicine. If a disease already
at my company “Tomorrowlabs”. So I can’t treat patients all day.
cell renewal. This “Hypoxia Inducible Factor” (HIF) is
exists, then other approaches are also required in order to have
Unfortunately, because that’s a lot of fun for me.
a protein present in all the cells and is responsible for
a successful effect. It is better not to let the burnout arise in the
catalogued for about a year and is also accepted as a finding,
the renewal of our tissue. The HIF signaling pathway
first place. This doesn’t come overnight. It’s a development pro-
as a diagnosis. This means that further tenders for research
But I am in an exchange with a large chain of clinics, which
enables healthy skin to heal itself and thus preserve
cess there. This has to be recognized and then you can definitely
programs and related funds are also possible.
has already taken up the idea to be able to offer this to normal
its youth. Age and stress prevent this renewal, by trig-
avoid it.
health insurance patients and I am now supposed to help with
gering the biochemical change in HIF: HIF is no longer
THERE ARE ALSO OTHER FORMS OF MEDICINE,
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF TCM OR HOMEOPATHY
PERSONALLY?
YOU ARE NOW CONSIDERED THE „POPE“ OF
LONGEVITY MEDICINE.
(laughs) For me, the path to longevity medicine emerged step by
step. I was originally a stem cell biologist. But if you are interest-
implementation and application of a longevity concept there. It is
absolutely correct, it has to be rolled out broadly.
There have to be personalized dietary supplements that one
might even be able to get via an app. So there is still a lot to be
developed here, even if the concepts are already in my head.
recognized and broken down by the body, and cell
regeneration comes to a standstill.
If cell regeneration slows down, visible signs of aging
in our skin and hair are an obvious consequence.
To counteract this, I designed the “HIF strengthen-
For me there is no alternative medicine, there is only medicine or
ed in why a stem cell no longer works well at some point, then as
Because longevity medicine will grow into a huge thing. I expect
ing factor” [HSF]. The aim of [HSF] is to prevent the
non-medicine. For me, medicine is something that can withstand
a solution-oriented person, which I am, you have to ask yourself
a social movement on the scale of the fitness trend in the 80s.
breakdown of HIF, to reactivate this signal and to repair
the burden of proof and science. Everything else is lifestyle and
what you can do to make it work better again. And suddenly you
our regeneration mechanism. With HIF, the body can
wellness. However, these forms are not immediately worthless to
me and therefore completely okay. Medicine is fed by science,
but everything else can also help, absolutely, one can feel better.
Everything can coexist perfectly, also in my universe. And as a
true academic physician, I can say something positive about
alternative practitioners: I think their approach of always seeing
and treating people as a whole is extremely clever.
find yourself in a mind game in which you get from the mini-cellular
building block to the really big issues of the organism.
WHAT DOES A TREATMENT AT THE MEKKA OF
LONGEVITY MEDICINE COST?
SO YOU ARE MORE THAN BUSY, WHEN DO YOU-
FEEL LIGHTNESS? AND ARE YOU A HUMOROUS
PERSON?
Ease - that’s when I spend time with my daughter and play with
her. I keep learning how important small things are. When she
regenerate itself at the cellular level. This knowledge
is the basis of Tomorrowlabs product development,
which designs products with a focus on skin aging and
hair loss. In clinical studies, the [HSF] application leads
to fewer wrinkles and a rejuvenated skin structure. HIF
restoration is also effective in stopping hereditary hair
loss and is important for healthy, hair regrowth. In a re-
My approach is unusual: I calculate by time and not by applica-
finds a flower, it’s a really big deal for her, and when she presents
cent clinical study on men and women, hair loss could
HOW LONG DO YOU THINK IT WILL BE BEFORE
LONGEVITY MEDICINE WILL ESTABLISH ITSELF AS
A FUNDAMENTALLY NEW MEDICAL APPROACH?
tion. I settle accounts like a lawyer, so to speak. Because otherwise
I cannot map my activity at all. So I have the same hourly
rate of 500 euros, whether I treat a patient, give lectures or work
on a consulting mandate.
it to me as a gift, it’s a really big deal for me. When I’m with my
daughter, a completely different life takes place. Because I have
to say: I have no hobbies.
For me, the work and the creative implementation of my ideas
be reduced on average by more than 60% and up to
88% within 3 months of use.
The functions of HIF are incredibly versatile and range
from approaches in cancer therapy to applications in
Fundamental rethinking is necessary, that is correct. Aging
Everyone has a different situation, but longevity medicine is ul-
are the greatest fun. And yes - I think I am really a humorous
skin and hair regeneration to strategies in combat-
should no longer be taken as God-given. It is important to sep-
tra-personalized precision medicine. So if someone wants a real
person. I don’t take myself too seriously, nor do I take aging too
ing the disease “age” itself. There is something very
arate from the positive aspects of experience and wisdom that
fine-tuning, they will have to spend more than someone who just
seriously. It helps a lot if you are not too stiff, even at work.
exciting to report on the latter: One of the latest and
go hand in hand with aging. Personally, I don’t think cell aging is
wants to find out their status quo.
the most promising candidate among drugs for curing
nice. After all, what is good about a cell’s loss of function? Cell
And a good mood is everything, even when it comes to the cell.
ageing is an HIF activator (more precisely an inhibitor
age is not a good thing for me, but rather a condition worthy of
The procedure is usually such that I first do the epigenetic test,
Because everything is one in our organism.
of HIF degradation). HIF breakdown is heavily regulat-
medical treatment. So the ideal would be: wisdom with cells that
which costs 450 euros and the evaluation currently takes 6-8
ed by iron levels, with high iron levels contributing to
are still healthy! This calls for a rethink: aging is a disease and
weeks. But even this is of course voluntary, I can also treat
Elke Bauer, The HARBOR Magazine
low HIF concentrations. This could well be related to
therefore deserves treatment.
without the test, although you have to say that it will of course
the very new finding that a chronically high iron level
be rather imprecise, where you cannot know exactly where you
has a bad effect on longevity. The picture is becoming
As doctors, we have only treated the symptoms of aging so far.
actually stand.
clearer and clearer, HIF is emerging as an important
But we have to deal with the underlying mechanism that gives
regulator in longevity medicine, the effects of which we
rise to the symptoms. If we tackle aging, we will immediately
If you come to me with a small concern, it can be resolved in a
can look forward to. „
see a benefit, for example on the cardiovascular, neurological
short working time. However, you have to reckon with around
or cancer level. Indeed, aging is now listed as a disease in the
1,000 euros, which unfortunately is not covered by any insurance
international catalog of diseases. In this respect, it has now been
provider.
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BIG BANG MP-11
Magic Gold case, a scratch-resistant
18K gold alloy invented and patented
by Hublot. In-house manual-winding power
reserve movement with 7 series-coupled
barrels and a 14-day power reserve.
Limited to 50 pieces.