GOVERNING GLOBAL GOODS IN A MULTIPOLAR WORLD

Annual Policy Dialogue on Governing Global Goods in a Multipolar World

 

2026

Madrid, Spain

The past few years have been marked by profound disruption, reshaping the frameworks that once sustained international cooperation. As the world navigates the decline of the post-war order, deepening geopolitical divides, and the accelerating climate crisis, it is clear that we are entering a new era — one in which the governance of what is essential for humanity and the planet can no longer rely on inherited systems.

Club de Madrid’s Annual Policy Dialogue 2026, “Governing Global Public Goods in a Multipolar World,” takes place at a defining moment for global governance. Today’s fragmentation challenges the capacity of multilateral institutions to respond to shared risks — from climate instability and global health to digital governance and economic resilience. Yet, within this uncertainty lies an opportunity: to reimagine how we govern our interdependence and renew the foundations of cooperation.

Through its convening power and unique network of over 100 democratic former Heads of State and Government, Club de Madrid provides an unparalleled platform to bridge divides, generate trust, and advance pragmatic solutions. Its Members’ leadership experience — spanning transitions, reforms and crises — equips them to foster dialogue that transcends geopolitical, ideological and generational boundaries.

The 2026 Policy Dialogue will mobilise this collective leadership to develop actionable proposals around three key dimensions:

· Reimagining global governance frameworks for the effective provision of Global Public Goods.

· Embedding democracy as a practical infrastructure of legitimacy, accountability and cooperation.

· Designing a future-oriented financing model, based on shared investment and long-term stewardship, capable of delivering these goods at scale.

These discussions will unfold through a multi-phase process culminating in a High-Level Meeting in Madrid in June 2026, gathering Members of Club de Madrid, experts, and leaders from governments, multilateral institutions, civil society, and the private sector. Together, they will shape a coherent vision for governing global public goods in an increasingly multipolar world — one grounded in democratic values, inclusive participation, and collective responsibility.

The insights and recommendations arising from this Dialogue will inform key decision-making arenas, including the implementation of the Pact for the Future, COP31, the reform of the international financial architecture, and the broader agenda for global cooperation beyond 2030.

In an age of fragmentation and mistrust, the 2026 Annual Policy Dialogue stands as a call for renewed multilateralism — one that restores legitimacy, redefines shared purpose, and strengthens democracy as the foundation for governing what binds humanity together: our global public goods.