ECES in collaboration with TheMerode club (https://www.themerode.com) presents: A Talk with Former Italian Prime Minister and former President of the European Commission, Romano Prodi, titled: "Global Power Shift: Bretton Woods, BRICS+, and the Future of World Order".
This thought-provoking discussion will take place at TheMerode, Brussels, on Wednesday, 26 March 2025 at the presence of 250 members of TheMerode and invitees: https://www.themerode.com/en/event/a-talk-with-former-italian-prime-minister-romano-prodi-784.
The event will be moderated by Fabio Bargiacchi, our Founder & Executive Director of ECES, who with nearly three decades of experience in supporting democratic processes worldwide, will facilitate an engaging discussion with Romano Prodi, a key figure in European and global politics.
Prodi, a distinguished Italian statesman and economist, twice served as Prime Minister of Italy (1996–1998, 2006–2008) and held the prestigious position of President of the European Commission (1999–2004). As the leader of the European Commission during the introduction of the Euro and the Enlargement process, his insights into global economic shifts are invaluable.
Key Discussion Topics
Since the end of World War II, the global order has been shaped by institutions like the Bretton Woods system, designed to ensure economic stability, promote multilateralism, and prevent major conflicts. However, this Western-led framework faces growing challenges from emerging powers and alternative alliances, most notably BRICS+, which now includes both democratic and authoritarian members. Romano Prodi will explore the fundamental questions shaping today’s global landscape, including:
- Bretton Woods vs. BRICS+ – How are the shifting dynamics between these economic groups redefining global governance? Are we witnessing the decline of Western economic dominance?
- The BRICS+ Dilemma – Can a coalition of ideologically diverse nations sustain unity, or will internal contradictions cause fragmentation?
- Trump 2024 and U.S. Leadership – How will Trump's presidency impact multilateralism, the U.S.'s role in global governance, and the rise of alternative power blocs like BRICS+?
- Europe’s Position in a Multipolar World – Can the European Union carve out a decisive global role, or will it be sidelined by shifting alliances?
- The Emerging World Order – Are we witnessing the formation of a new global equilibrium, and what challenges lie ahead?
25 March 2025
