Horasis Global Meeting 2024: A New Chapter of Global Collaboration in Vitória, Brazil
The Horasis Global Meeting 2024 to be held in Vitória, Brazil, from October 24-27, promises to serve as a pivotal forum tackling pressing global challenges, ranging from climate change and economic inequality to technological advancements and global governance. Co-hosted by the State of Espírito Santo, Espírito Santo em Ação, and Findes, this year’s meeting is themed “Building Bridges to the Future,” connecting the geography of Vitória, an island city connected by bridges with the topic of the conference.
Pathways for Collaboration – Building Bridges
The meeting’s core will be on creating pathways for collaboration between nations of the Global North and South, as well as East and West. This central energy is expressed in the diversity of the meeting’s co-chairs, including a gender-balanced, and diverse group of global leaders, businesses, and thinkers such as Bo Inge Andersson, Chief Executive Officer of Uzauto Motors, Uzbekistan; William Bohnett, Chairman of American Forests, USA; and Edison Carlos, Chief Executive Officer of Instituto AEGEA, Brazil. Other notable figures joining the dialogue are Fernando Cinelli, Chief Executive Officer of Apex Partners, Brazil; Alfa Demmellash, Chief Executive Officer of Rising Tide Capital, Ethiopia/USA; and Agnes VST Devanadera, President of Clark Development Corporation, The Philippines. The breadth of experience brought by Maria Cristina Frias, Partner at Grupo Folha, Brazil, and HH Princess Nisreen El-Hashemite, Executive Director of the Royal Academy of Science International Trust, USA, will enrich discussions on sustainability and global governance.
Additional co-chairs contributing to the meeting include Fahim Hashimi, Chairman of Hashimi Group and former Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Afghanistan; Sekai Holland, Chairperson of Zimbabwe Peacebuilding Initiative and former Minister of State for National Healing, Reconciliation, and Integration, Zimbabwe; Dan Loschpe, Chairman of Lochpe Maxion, Brazil; and Mamphela Ramphele, Honorary President of the Club of Rome, South Africa. Prominent voices from the corporate world, such as Murat Seitnepesov, President of the Greater Caspian Association, Switzerland; Engy Serag, Executive Director of Orascom Construction, Egypt; and Emily Slater, Executive Director of the Bretton Woods Committee, USA, will further enhance the event’s discussions on economic cooperation and development. Leaders like Luiza Helena Trajano, Chairperson of Magazine Luiza, Brazil; Alejandro Valenzuela, Chief Executive Officer of Banco Azteca, Mexico; and Mert Zorlular, President and CFO of ER-KIM Pharmaceutical, Türkiye, will provide insights into private sector strategies for driving sustainable growth and innovation.
Global Visions and Stakeholder Capitalism
Dr. Frank-Jürgen Richter, Founder and Chairman of Horasis: The Global Visions Community emphasized in an interview with the author the strategic importance of selecting the island city of Vitória as the host, symbolizing both connectivity and global collaboration.
One of the major focal points of the meeting will be the role of AI and its ethical implications for governance and industries of the future. Sessions like “Getting to Know Your New AI Overlords” and “Bridging to Achieve the Potential of AI” will explore the transformative power of AI while addressing critical concerns such as bias, inequality, and the environmental costs of these technologies. Discussions on sustainability, particularly in sessions such as “No Water, No Business” and “Investing in Climate Tech”, will address the interconnected challenges of natural resource management, climate change, and economic development, highlighting how global governance and technological advancements must align with sustainable practices to ensure long-term prosperity for all. This theme of sustainability ties into the broader ESG-led economic growth agenda of the meeting, where leaders are called to rethink capitalism to prioritize long-term environmental and social well-being alongside profits. ESG-led economics refers to an approach to economic growth and business practices that is driven by the principles of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). It emphasizes that economic activities, investments, and business decisions should not only aim for financial profit but also take into account their environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance. Dr. Richter’s emphasis on stakeholder capitalism, where businesses serve not just shareholders but the broader community and environment, is a key point of focus at the event.
What follows is an interview with Dr. Frank-Jürgen Richter, Founder and Chairman of Horasis: The interview was edited for clarity.
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “This is the first time the Horasis Global Meeting is being held in South America, specifically in Vitória, Brazil. What makes Brazil, particularly Vitória, an ideal location for this meeting, especially regarding its technological and ESG-driven advancements?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “We’ve been rotating the Horasis Global Meeting since 2016, hosting it in countries like the UK, Portugal, and Turkey. We chose Vitória, the capital of Espírito Santo, Brazil, for several reasons. Brazil, after years of economic potential, is finally waking up. Companies like Embraer, Nubank, and several other tech startups are showing strong growth, demonstrating the country’s innovation capacity. Vitória itself is pushing to be the ESG capital of the world. The city is spearheading efforts to reconcile economic progress with environmental sustainability, driven by Governor Renato Casagrande’s vision to merge these goals. This combination of tech, sustainability, and Vitória’s geographic symbolism as a city of interconnected islands made it the perfect fit for this year’s summit.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “The theme of this year’s meeting is ‘Building Bridges to the Future.’ How do you envision technology playing a role in bridging divides between North-South and East-West nations?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Vitória, with its many small islands connected by bridges, serves as a metaphor for the global divisions we face—geopolitical, digital, gender, and economic. Technology is a crucial enabler in addressing these divides. For example, the digital divide is stark: while some countries have access to cutting-edge technologies, others are left behind. We need public-private partnerships to bring these innovations where they are most needed. Technology can facilitate collaboration across these divides by building bridges, helping us solve problems like economic stagnation, geopolitical tensions, and inequality. But it has to be done thoughtfully, ensuring that these technological advancements are inclusive and serve the broader interests of humanity.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “As STEAM education becomes increasingly important in preparing the workforce for 2060 and beyond, are there specific sessions at this year’s Horasis Global Meeting that focus on how teachers can leverage STEAM education to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving, tech-driven future?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Education is the foundation of society’s success. Countries in East Asia, such as China, Japan, and South Korea, have shown how a strong focus on education leads to economic growth, employment, and social stability. At this year’s meeting, we’re focusing on how educators, particularly through STEAM education, can prepare students for a tech-driven future. We are addressing the digital divide and how educational systems must evolve to train young minds in critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. These skills are essential for the challenges we’ll face by 2060, especially with the rapid advancements in AI and other emerging technologies. Educators will play a key role in ensuring that future generations are not just users of technology but creators and innovators.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “Organizing a global event like the Horasis Global Meeting must come with significant logistical and strategic challenges. What have been the biggest hurdles in bringing together such a diverse group of global leaders in Vitória, and how have you overcome these to ensure a successful, impactful meeting?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Indeed, organizing an event of this scale involves numerous challenges, from logistics to aligning agendas across various sectors—government, business, and civil society. One major hurdle is coordinating across different time zones, cultures, and even political tensions. Our goal is to create a neutral platform where these differences can be set aside in favor of constructive dialogue. Another challenge is ensuring that every participant feels they can actively contribute. We don’t just invite people to listen; everyone is a speaker and a contributor. Overcoming these hurdles requires careful planning, but most importantly, it demands a shared commitment from all participants to focus on solutions rather than the problems that divide us.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “What do you see as the most significant opportunities and risks in integrating new technologies into global governance, and how is Horasis contributing to shaping this discourse?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “The biggest opportunity and risk, in one word, is Artificial Intelligence. AI can revolutionize global governance by improving efficiency, transparency, and decision-making processes. But with that comes a significant risk – AI, if left unchecked, could exacerbate existing biases and inequalities. At Horasis, we have created a council focused on the ethical dimensions of AI, and we’re holding a panel on this topic at the meeting. We need a clear ethical framework to guide AI development, especially as it becomes more prevalent in governance. The issue is not just about implementing AI but ensuring that it serves humanity’s broader interests. We’re also concerned about the environmental cost of AI, given the immense energy consumption required to power these systems. This is an ongoing discussion, and we aim to bring together experts from various fields to address these complexities.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “You mentioned before the challenges of balancing technological innovation with environmental sustainability, particularly concerning AI and crypto. Can you elaborate on how the Horasis meeting will tackle these pressing environmental issues?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Yes, the environmental impact of technology is a significant focus at this year’s meeting. AI and blockchain technologies, especially crypto mining, consume vast amounts of energy. We’re holding several sessions to discuss how we can mitigate these impacts. One session focuses on the potential for climate tech to offer solutions. Another will address the environmental dimension of AI, specifically how we can create more energy-efficient models. It’s not just about innovation for the sake of progress; it’s about ensuring that these advancements are sustainable. We’re bringing in experts on climate change and ESG to lead discussions on how we can reconcile the need for more computing power with the urgent need to reduce our carbon footprint.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “You mentioned the importance of public-private partnerships in overcoming global challenges. Can you give an example from a previous Horasis Global Meeting where such a partnership led to tangible outcomes?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Yes, we’ve seen several successful examples of public-private partnerships arising from Horasis meetings. One such instance occurred during our Asia Summit in Vietnam a few years ago. We connected the board members of the World Trade Center organization with the local government. That very same evening, they signed an MOU to build a World Trade Center in Binh Duong, a province near Ho Chi Minh City. Within two years, the World Trade Center was completed – an example of how these partnerships can move quickly from idea to reality. We’ve also had cases where significant investments flowed into the host country following these meetings, and while many deals happen behind the scenes, we know that these gatherings foster an environment where governments and private sector leaders can meet and form meaningful collaborations.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “Migration is often discussed as a global challenge, with economic and environmental factors being a significant driver. How do you see the role of Horasis and events like this in addressing the root causes of migration, particularly by creating opportunities in countries of origin?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Migration is often driven by the economic divide—lack of jobs, opportunities, and prospects in home countries. At Horasis, we focus on how to create sustainable opportunities in countries of origin to reduce the push factors for migration. One key area is digitalization. By equipping young people with digital skills, we can create local employment opportunities that didn’t exist before. For example, Rwanda has become a poster child for successful post-conflict development through its focus on education and digital infrastructure. We need to invest not in short-term aid, but in long-term solutions that enable these countries to develop their own economic and digital ecosystems. This is a topic that resonates deeply with many of our participants, as migration and economic stability are closely linked.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “With AI becoming such a powerful tool, do you see risks in terms of bias or unintended consequences when integrating AI into global governance? How is Horasis addressing these risks?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Absolutely, there are significant risks associated with AI, particularly around bias. AI systems are trained on data that is often reflective of human biases. At Horasis, we’re tackling this by forming a council that looks at the ethical dimensions of AI. We have a group of American scientists who have been working on this issue, and they’ll be presenting their findings at the meeting in Vitória. The question is: how do we ensure AI serves the common good, rather than perpetuating inequalities? This is where regulation comes in, but it needs to be balanced. Overregulation could stifle innovation, but a lack of oversight could result in serious harm. We’re advocating for a middle path—one that encourages innovation while ensuring that AI systems are transparent, fair, and inclusive.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “You mentioned earlier the environmental cost of AI and other technologies. Can you elaborate on how Horasis plans to address the sustainability challenges posed by the growing energy demands of these technologies?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Yes, this is a pressing issue. The energy consumption of AI, particularly in the context of machine learning and crypto mining, is enormous. We are hosting panels on climate tech to discuss how we can mitigate these impacts. For example, Paraguay, which has abundant hydroelectric power, has become a hub for crypto mining because of its energy surplus. But this isn’t a sustainable model for every country. We need to focus on creating more energy-efficient AI systems and exploring renewable energy solutions that can support the growing digital infrastructure. Sustainability must be at the heart of technological progress, and we’re bringing together experts who are working on these challenges from various angles—whether that’s improving the energy efficiency of algorithms or scaling up renewable energy sources.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “Many discussions about the future of capitalism are emerging, with calls for more inclusive economic models. How is Horasis contributing to reshaping capitalism in the context of global inequality and environmental concerns?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Horasis believes in a new kind of capitalism – one based on stakeholder value, not just shareholder value. Traditional capitalism has been focused on short-term gains, often at the expense of long-term societal and environmental well-being. We need a model where all stakeholders – employees, communities, and the environment – benefit from economic activity. This is where ESG-led capitalism comes in, where businesses are evaluated not just on their financial performance but also on their contributions to society and the planet. We’re advocating for a win-win approach where everyone benefits from the growth of the economy, not just a select few.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “The environmental crisis is pushing governments and businesses to take more action. Is there a specific panel or session at this year’s meeting that focuses on the link between climate change, water scarcity, and economic development?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Yes, water scarcity is one of the biggest issues we’ll be discussing. We have a plenary panel titled ‘No Water, No Business,’ led by HRH Princess Dr. Nisreen El-Hashemite, focusing on how water scarcity impacts businesses and economies. Water is becoming the next battleground, and many conflicts in the future will be fought over access to this essential resource. We’ll be discussing how technology can help address water scarcity, from more efficient irrigation systems to technologies that can purify and recycle water. But the core issue is that climate change is drastically affecting water availability, and this has ripple effects across every sector—from agriculture to manufacturing to geopolitics. If we don’t address water scarcity, we are setting ourselves up for a global crisis.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “You’ve mentioned the role of AI in shaping global governance. Are there any discussions or panels specifically addressing how to manage AI’s potential to disrupt financial systems, particularly in the context of crypto and blockchain technologies?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Yes, we’re hosting discussions on the future of crypto and blockchain technologies, particularly the risks they pose to the financial system. The question is whether governments are keeping up with these technological advancements. There’s often a disconnect between what’s happening in the tech world and the regulatory frameworks governments are using. This is why forums like Horasis are essential they bring together both sectors to discuss these pressing issues.”
Dr. Jasmin Cowin: “As we come to the end of our interview, what would you say is the most significant legacy Horasis hopes to leave from this year’s meeting?”
Dr. Frank Richter: “Our goal is to inspire the future. We want to create a platform where new ideas can flourish, and where global leaders from different sectors come together to find solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges. This year’s meeting is not just about talking – it’s about action. We’ll be working with the local government of Espírito Santo on ongoing projects that extend beyond the summit. This includes practical steps toward making Vitória a hub for ESG innovation. Additionally, we’ll be producing a white paper with concrete proposals for addressing some of the issues discussed, from climate change to digital inclusion. Ultimately, we hope that the ideas generated at Horasis will lead to real-world outcomes that make a difference.”
This article was written by Dr. Jasmin (Bey) Cowin, Associate Professor and U.S. Department of State English Language Specialist (2024). As a columnist for Stankevicius, she writes on Nicomachean Ethics: Insights at the Intersection of AI and Education. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
