Plenary Panels
Opening Plenary - Climate as a Threat Multiplier
Thursday May 1st from 4:00 to 5:00
This panel will examine the growing recognition of climate change as a “threat multiplier” that exacerbates existing security challenges worldwide. Panelists will discuss how climate impacts - such as resource scarcity, forced migration, and infrastructure vulnerability—are increasingly shaping defense strategies, humanitarian responses, and geopolitical tensions. The conversation will also highlight how different sectors, including energy, economy, and human security, are responding to these risks. Attendees will gain a broader understanding of how climate change intersects with traditional and nontraditional security concerns.
Plenary II - Rewriting the Script: Transforming masculine norms to address the climate crisis
Friday May 2nd from 9:00 to 10:00
The climate crisis is a gender crisis, as the extent of these impacts on individuals is significantly shaped by social determinants, including gender. Research on masculinities with ecofeminist theory documents the complex ways that men and boys encounter both vulnerability and complicity through the mediating effects of gender relations that intersect with colonialism and capitalism. This presentation will examine the role of the MenEngage Alliance, a social change network operating in 92 countries, in engaging men and boys as agents of change for gender/environmental justice. Drawing on insights from interviews with 14 global practitioners, and two in depth case studies—Uganda’s Community Transformation Foundation Network and Bangladesh’s YouthNet Global—who are at the forefront of global heating. The presentation will share strategies for dismantling patriarchal structures to foster relations grounded in care.
Plenary III - Divine Stewardship: Religious Perspectives on Climate
Friday May 2nd from 10:30 to 11:45
This panel will explore how diverse religious communities around the world are engaging with the challenges of climate change, offering insights into their unique perspectives and actions. Representatives from different faith traditions will discuss the moral and ethical dimensions of environmental stewardship and the role of spirituality in shaping climate action. Through dialogue and shared experiences, the panel will highlight both the common ground and distinct approaches that religious communities bring to addressing environmental crises. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how faith can inspire collective efforts toward a sustainable future.
Plenary IV - Money Talks, But Can It Save The Planet
Friday May 2nd from 3:30 to 4:45
As the global economy faces the growing urgency of climate change, financial markets are being called upon to play a pivotal role in funding the green transition. From sustainable investing to regulatory frameworks, financial institutions, investors, and policymakers are exploring innovative mechanisms to align capital with environmental objectives. But how effective are these strategies? Are financial markets truly equipped to drive sustainable change, or are they simply mitigating risks without addressing the root causes of the crisis?
This panel will bring together experts from different areas of economics to explore the evolving landscape of green financing and impact investing. The discussion will examine whether financial tools such as green bonds, carbon credits, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing, and climate risk disclosure frameworks can meaningfully contribute to emissions reductions and environmental sustainability.