May 11-2026

The St. Gallen Symposium is one of the world’s leading forums for cross-generational dialogue between current leaders and the “leaders of tomorrow.” Held annually every May at the University of St. Gallen, the Symposium was founded in response to the 1968 student protests in Europe. Its founders believed that conflicts could be resolved through dialogue rather than confrontation—a vision that remains highly relevant today.

This year’s 55th Symposium, held on 6–7 May 2026 under the theme “Disrupted Age,” focused on navigating rapid technological, geopolitical, and demographic shifts where both risks and opportunities continue to grow side by side.

The event brought together over 600 senior leaders and 300 students from 92 countries. Students earned participation through a highly competitive global essay competition themed:

“Disruption in Tech + Politics + Demography: What happens when they collide?”

I was honored to be invited by the President of the student organizing committee to participate in this remarkable gathering.

From the opening sessions, it became clear that this year’s discussions would move beyond disruption as a buzzword and instead examine it as a lived political, economic, and social reality. The sessions explored what leadership requires at a time when technological acceleration, geopolitical tensions, and changing societal expectations are colliding.

One particularly impactful session focused on the ongoing war in Sudan under the theme: “Who steps in when the world walks away?” Distinguished participants, including Mo Ibrahim, described the conflict as one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Discussions highlighted greed, the struggle for power, and external funding as major drivers of the conflict. It was strongly emphasized that sustainable peace requires accountability, implementation of international law, and global commitment to justice.

I also had the opportunity to engage with students from Cameroon and South Africa, reflecting the rich diversity and exchange of perspectives that define the Symposium.

A special moment for me was meeting Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Ghana’s goalkeeper currently playing in St. Gallen. Together with officials from Ashesi University, we discussed student exchange opportunities, football academies in Ghana, health and nutrition, and the importance of empowering young people through education and sports. I was delighted to learn of Lawrence’s continued role with Ghana and wished him success in the upcoming international matches.

Another inspiring interaction was with Alice Anaman, a Ghanaian student at St. Gallen studying International Affairs, Law, and Economics. She currently serves as Head of Corporate Relations for the annual Africa Summit. Our discussions centered on creating opportunities for Ghanaian students in international relations and political science to undertake attachments at the Embassy while contributing to research, trade promotion, and Ghana–Switzerland collaborations.

Throughout the Symposium, I was particularly impressed by the unity and coordination among European countries and reflected on the importance of strengthening similar cooperation within Africa through the African Union.

I also had fruitful discussions with Sebastian Frankenberger, who expressed strong interest in strengthening student exchange programmes between Ghana and Switzerland and increasing African participation in future Symposiums.

Finally, I wish to congratulate more than 450 student volunteers whose dedication ensured the success of the event—from transportation and logistics to hospitality and coordination. Their professionalism, warmth, and commitment were truly commendable.

The Symposium reaffirmed my belief that there is hope for the future when young people are empowered to engage in dialogue, embrace collaboration, and uphold the rule of law.

Bravo to the organizers and participants for an enriching and impactful experience. I believe there is great hope for the future of today’s youth if we continue to embrace dialogue instead of confrontation and uphold the rule of law in every community.