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John Venier is originally a Frenchman who graduated with a Doctorate of Food Processing/Engineering and Veterinary Medicine. He also obtained a Master in Computer Science in Dublin (Ireland), where he has lived since 2007. Specializing in environmental management. He is an expert in local and regional development (LED) driven by communities (CDD) and advertising for the economic, social, and environmental promotion of the territories where he has worked intensively throughout his life. He speaks several languages: French (native), English, German (fluent), and a little Spanish.
Give credit to those who deserve it !
John v’s ethics 1st rule
One’s genuine worth is gauged by their capacity to innovate, create, progress, and achieve independently, rather than relying on wealth and the reputation of an organization where they may have been a mere employee, following directives for years. Let’s acknowledge and honour those who truly merit recognition!
He has worked in Canada, the USA, Africa, ASEAN, France and Ireland for 20 years, focusing in various areas of action, such as the following:
John V. has been interested in the best adaptation solutions for climate action for 17 years now, and has even received letters of reference from the French President, Mr. F. Hollande, recognizing the worth of his sustainable designed projects for self-sufficiency (energy and resources). He has carried out several eco-settlement designs, as well as circular economy and waste management processes, such as pro-poor urban planning for local community-led ecotourism villages (Coastal Ecosystem-Based Adaptation EbA, NBS – Presented at COP21).
He has managed and advised several sustainable projects in Madagascar, South Africa (Cape Town) and ASEAN (Malaysia), and is also the winner of one of the Sustainable Cities/Villages and Slums/Camps program awards from France.
John has 8 years of experience mentoring more than 880 Young Leaders from Eastern Africa (Tanzania, Madagascar and many other countries) for Sustainable Local Economic Development, Environmental Management, and Waste Management projects, especially regarding electronic reusable equipments and plastic waste. His roles include advising the civil society and academics, as well as mentoring them in the procedures needed to start initiatives and request funding to Europe.
John has a background in SMEs Innovation and is himself founder of:
- An NGO 4 Sustainability Accelerator for green social entrepreneurs and NGOs
- An NGO 4 Sustainable Local Economic Development Board Association
- Several Webportals/platforms allowing the empowering of communities and civil society through citizen science (local data science, local data collection)
His daily work involves local business development, solidarity and environmental initiatives for local economic development (LED and CDD LED) of suburbs and rural territories in order to show the young people the right path so that their skills and strengths are recognized as innovative and bankable for local development. John is also involved in a community gathering 50 thematic groups where 1000 fellows share their initiatives: Link1, Link 2.
This work is carried through the following resources:
- Action Consortiums, such as the OMCon (Open Minds Consortium)
- Web Platforms offering various services, such as funding local projects (finance-finder.org launch end of 2023) runned by NGOs (such as EDBA).
- An IMPACT HUB, a South-South-North Alliance (4A or AAAA alliance) acting through various instruments for Local Economic Development by Communities, such as:
- A Network of ODELs (Open Distance e-Learning centres, such the ww.The-inSERT.info) through mentorship, scholarships, workshops, bootcamps, masterclass, ToT, capacity building, Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth (CSCY) and gender empowerment. To summarize: active co-creation and co-development. John is managing the evaluation and accountability process for funders as a MEL auditor for this ODEL Centers Network.
- Support in training to Local Initiatives such as NGOs and associations projects. For instance, Construction Cooperatives (social enterprise) in Madagascar are on track to enter fundraising from the EU, UNEP and other donors, notable for reducing the carbon footprint of printing and increasing educational opportunities. Orientation to the insertion of young people and women through environmental and waste management training of the SDGs, but also for agricultural training (Rural Transformation).
John has developed a Design Thinking 2.0, targeted at entrepreneurs in incubators. This process allows seed funding through their participation as partners in consortiums in the process of application to calls for projects (as seed funding). Linking public and private financing of emerging projects (hybrid green accelerator). John is skilled to redesign methodologies and show the civil society and young people the right path to having their abilities and strengths recognized through innovation for local development, financing process, labelling and certification, portfolio management best practices in a bottom to top process.
Ultimately John’s skills extend from climate action and the blue and circular economy, science and data collection, agri-food production and industry, Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth (CSCY) capacity development; to the collective protection of intellectual property in groups of partners (collective IPP) and financing through Europe Aid (INTPA and others).
He gained experience over more than 10 years working on East Asian and African projects in Indonesia, Malaysia and Madagascar. He has published more than a hundred newsletters and blogs on websites regarding the global action plan on climate, circular, sustainable and affordable construction and energy, especially on ecotourism villages and urban planning in East Asia and Africa since COP21 (Paris 2015, where one of his projects was featured).
He is a multi-award winning eco-sustainable building designer and has over 15 years of experience in experimentation, implementation, research and human capital development (through ODeL centres, MOOCs) in: environmental management, circular economy, construction of housing and commercial premises, and addressing urban development issues in developed and emerging countries, including slum renewal at national and subnational levels.
John is ultimately a brilliant person in Redesigning and Rethinking climate instruments and the value chain. He has experience and passion in delivering projects in accordance with the needs and standards in the field of sustainability: climate action, education, clean energy, circular economy in cities and countries, etc.
The following section showcases some organizations related to John’s work:
AAAA Alliance Impact Hub is an Alliance Network, led by a group of experts, made up of professionals from universities, communities, companies and government ministers, as well as young leaders knowledgeable in various areas such as: education, climate action, development and sustainable development of countries such as Madagascar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Ireland and France.
We are transforming the way people work and share. The Civil Society and Students continue to accelerate their projects and change the world, whether from within their organizations or as entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs. We help hundreds university students and other individuals to discover new ways of seeing the world.
AAAA gave rise to OMCon (Open Minds Consortium) in January 2021.
The world is changing at an unprecedented pace and, as seniors, we feel a responsibility to share skills with an entrepreneurial mindset and the resilience to adapt. By the end of 2022, the OMCon Open Minds Consortium was one of the first clusters to offer Experiential Cooperation for applications (Co-Creation). OMCon designs action experiences in alliance with members, specialists and leaders, to provide its particpants with the key skills they need in funding applications actions.
EDBA is a Dublin registered NGO, an association of internationally sustainable local economic boards (SLEBs) who wish to cement communities local economic development (LED) in their territories: areas, towns, villages and cities, districts, regions, etc. Their vision is for SLEBs to build towards a future that is smart, sustainable, healthy, prosperous and inclusive. Its purpose is to provide practical support to those wishing to establish and develop SLEBS4LED at all levels, from local, regional to national.
INTERVIEW
Two ways of defining yourself
John, you are an expert in regional and local development (LED and communities driven development CDD) with many years of experience, in addition to having a clear understanding of what are the most important challenges we currently face, and how we should act in relation to them. Regarding this, you have defined yourself in two different ways. On one hand, from a personal point of view as a «Climate Crisis Man.» On the other hand, from a systemic perspective as an agent of the change for solving the climate crisis.
These two ways of thinking, one individual and the other systemic, have been a fundamental part of your life.
1. Regarding the individual part, you have proposed two initiatives related to your personal lifestyle to reduce carbon emissions:
– I wish these two lifestyle initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and resources consumption overshoot. The first initiative is the Reduce-Action Carbon challenge! I am its Inventor, and it consists in a test for each of us to reach a 2-3 tons of carbon (CO2) lifestyle per year!
2. Could you tell us what the launch of this idea involves?
– I have cut down all my high lifestyle carbon footprint origins for 7 years (2015-2023). A 2-3 tons of an “ultra low” carbon lifestyle per year means following this guidelines:
- No car
- No flights
- No power at home
- A €2-3 food budget a day!
- No new clothes or items
- Using half tissues (even during covid!)
- No toilet paper
- 20 Litres (yes twenty or less) of water per day only (all included) (USA 450 L/day/person. Canada 340 L/day/person. Japan 320 L/day/habitant!)
There are more pointers, but that would be out of the scope of a liveable long term lifestyle.
This includes a second initiative named the Low Calories challenge, which involves a 2-3€ budget for food per day! It’s amazing! Anyone can contact with me for training at home if you want!
Regarding the systemic way in which you characterize yourself, you define it as «the systemic redesign from the ClimateMan thinking about the civil society as an agent of climate change», focusing on how to get communities and young people to become agents of personal and systemic change.
3. Could you tell us about this?
– After mastering a sustainable built environment redesigning approach, since 2012 my next step was mastering and redesigning a global systemic rethinking approach, including levers and enablers for making it happening!
I am a multi-award winning eco-sustainable building designer with over 15 years of experience in experimentation, implementation, research and human capital development. In the development of my work, I always highlight experience and passion in delivering projects in accordance with the needs and standards in the field of sustainability: climate action, education, clean energy, circular economy in cities and countries, etc. Without passionate people there can’t be any achievements!
Promoting talented young leaders
As Director of an accelerator, you built up an extensive network that advises 880 young leaders (fellows and entrepreneurs) in local business development, solidarity and environmental initiatives (LED and mostly CDD LED) in order to show young people from the civil society the best path so that their skills and strengths are recognized as innovative for local sustainable development.
4. What instruments and processes do you use in this process of sustainable development with a local effect?
– In the development of my work, I use the co-creation and co-development processes through several instruments:
- A Network of open distance e-learning centers through mentorships, scholarships, workshops, FP, and ToT in a co-creation and co-development mindset.
- The Impact Hub South-South-North AAAA alliance.
- Economic Development Board Association.
- Global portals/platforms, such as www.sponsorscholarships.org (a funding platform).
- Through various instruments for Local Economic Development (LED by Communities CDD), such as the OMCon (Open Minds Consortium).
- Several others that are being prepared, such as a labelling for local initiatives.
Civil society
Civil society is a part of society, organized and with common objectives, whose purpose is to raise demands and soon to monitor the implementation by the governemental sphere (and eventually the EU Member States) with the aim of influencing society through changes made by institutional means.
5. What are the main services you have in mind for mainstreaming the Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth?
– The Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth Voice Hub – CCSCY Hub!
The notion of creating communities, citizen and civil society observatories equipped with powerful tools, is the only way to guarantee transparency and to keep corruption and hypocrisy at a minimum through the involvement of a strict monitoring process by the civil society, ensuring better use and impact of funding. These tools, among other things, are based on artificial intelligence and therefore have the capacity to submit programmes or initiatives to funding, but also to collect data (data science based on citizen science) and lodge petitions and complaints against national and local authorities, which are usually the only beneficiaries of structural funds and/or subsidies at the country level.
The program you’ve outlined, which focuses on bottom-up co-creation and co-development processes, involves a variety of web-based services and platforms.
Overall, the program aims to achieve a range of objectives, including:
- Empowering young people through education, mentorship, and skills development.
- Reducing financial barriers to education and entrepreneurship.
- Encouraging international collaboration and networking.
- Fostering CCSCY-led economic development at both local and regional levels.
- Giving young people a real voice in shaping their communities and regions.
- Recognizing and supporting local CCSCY-led initiatives.
By providing these services and platforms, the program aims to enable young people to realize their potential, contribute to their communities, and actively participate in the development of their continents.
Here are some of the services and their potential benefits for young people in South America, Africa and maybe Asia:
- Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth engagement and Advocacy platform (Civil Voice Hub): The CCSCY Voice Hub can serve as an ecosystems support platform for young people to express their ideas, concerns, and innovative solutions. It fosters a sense of agency and encourages CCSCY participation in shaping policies and programs, as well as draft plans (adaptation and contribution) at a local level from rural to national, even a human collective collaborative intelligence global plan!
- Mentorship Services: These services could connect young individuals with experienced mentors who can guide them in their educational and career journeys. Mentors guide and offer advice, share insights, and help young people navigate their chosen paths.
- Scholarship Co-funding: Providing access to PPP scholarships can reduce financial barriers to education for young people. Scholarships could cover tuition fees, study materials, and other related expenses, avoiding young individuals to be dropouts and to pursue higher education.
- Workshops and Training such as a massive VET program: Workshops can offer practical skills and knowledge in various fields. These can range from technical skills to soft skills like communication and leadership, making young people more employable and adaptable in the job market.
- Co-creation and co-development Process Training similar to a DESIGN THINKING training: Training in co-creation and co-development processes can equip young people with the tools and methodologies to collaboratively address complex challenges, encouraging innovation and teamwork.
- International Collaboration IMPACT HUB South-South-North: (4Aalliance): This initiative can foster collaboration between the Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth and academics, rural, local and regions, providing young people with opportunities to work on international projects, expand their global network, and gain a broader perspective on global connections.
- Economic Development Support (Economic Development Board Association, Economicboard.org): This platform supports Sustainable Local Economic Development Boards (groups) involving communities, young entrepreneurs and local decision makers, offering access to funding, mentorship, and resources to kickstart or scale their consortiums.
- Funding Opportunities: This platform will help young people secure financial support for their SDG compliant educational and entrepreneurial endeavours and initiatives, reducing financial barriers and enabling them to pursue their goals.
- GloCal CONNECTIONS (OMCon Open Minds Consortiums): These instruments can empower young individuals to engage in community-driven development projects, creating economic R&D opportunities within their local areas and contributing to the development of their communities.
- Labelling for Local Initiatives (IamCLIMATE.org): The labelling for local initiatives can provide recognition and support for durable certified carbon credits based on NBS processes for community-driven projects led by young people, encouraging their production of Certified Carbon Credits in local development.
6. What do you hope to achieve with this program to help the young people of those continents?
– Co-creation and co-development. In a mainstreamed bottom-up process through services, this program to support young people in South America and Africa can contribute significantly to building up Europe’s leadership, competitiveness, and influence in several ways:
- Global Network and Collaboration: By fostering collaboration and partnership with young people from these continents, Europe can build a broader and more diverse global network. Engaging with emerging leaders from different regions can enhance Europe’s diplomatic reach and influence in international affairs.
- Cultural Exchange and Understanding: These collaborative initiatives encourage cultural exchange and understanding. Building relationships with young leaders from diverse backgrounds can improve Europe’s ability to work effectively on the global stage, addressing global challenges with a more inclusive perspective.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship: By supporting entrepreneurship and innovation through these programs, Europe can tap into the potential of young leaders from South America, Africa and Asia. This can stimulate economic growth, making the European continent more competitive in the global market.
- Economic Ties: Initiatives like the Sustainable Economic Development Board Association can strengthen economic ties between Europe and these continents, opening up markets and business opportunities. This can enhance Europe’s economic competitiveness and create new avenues for trade and investment (Next Gen EU is YOU!).
- Education and Research: By providing scholarships and educational opportunities to young individuals locally, Europe can maintain talent and promote academic and research collaboration in Africa. This can bolster Europe’s academic leadership and contribute to its competitiveness in knowledge-based industries.
- Global Problem Solving: Collaborative projects and initiatives, such as those focused on sustainability or development, can position Europe as a leader in addressing global challenges. This leadership can foster goodwill and strengthen Europe’s diplomatic influence (Geopolitics positioning).
- Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth Engagement: The active engagement of CCSCY in Europe’s efforts to support these initiatives can lead to a more inclusive and dynamic leadership model. Young people can bring fresh perspectives, ideas, and energy to Europe’s leadership initiatives.
- Soft Power and Influence, Soft enforcement: The goodwill generated by supporting young people and contributing to positive development in these continents can enhance Europe’s soft power. This, in turn, can enable Europe to exert influence through attraction and soft persuasion rather than coercion.
- International Reputation: By actively supporting young leaders and participating in collaborative global projects, Europe can enhance its international reputation. A reputation for fostering talent, education, and innovation can attract positive attention and support.
Overall, these initiatives can help renew to position Europe as a global leader in a wide range of sectors, including education, innovation, sustainability of GloCal economic development. The active involvement of young people can ensure that Europe’s leadership is not only competitive but also social, forward-thinking and inclusive, leading to a stronger, more attractive and influential European presence on the world stage.
7. What is your general impression of how young people from those continents perceive this new space for collaboration and help in their professional lives?
– Well, there is no access to specific data or the ability to gauge real-time public sentiment. However, I can provide a general impression of how young people might perceive such spaces and services for collaboration and professional development based on the trends and expectations of that time. It’s important to note that perceptions can vary widely among individuals, and they can change over time based on experiences and feedback.
- Positive Expectations: Many young people/leaders will view such collaborative spaces and services positively. They will see them as opportunities to access education, mentorship, financial support, and resources that were previously inaccessible. These services can be seen as a lifeline for personal and professional growth.
- Empowerment: Young individuals in these regions will see these platforms as a means of empowerment. They could provide the tools and knowledge needed to overcome challenges and make a positive impact on their communities and societies.
- Global Networking: The ability to collaborate with peers and experts from different continents can be seen as a valuable chance to build international networks. Young people/leaders will value the potential for cross-cultural exchanges and global perspectives.
- Financial Accessibility: Services that offer scholarships and funding opportunities can be especially appealing, as they can help alleviate the financial burden of education and business endeavours, making professional growth more attainable.
- CCSCY Empowerment: Services that prioritize Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth voices and initiatives, such as the CCSCY Voice Hub and local labelling for local carbon credits CCSCY-led projects, can foster a sense of agency and purpose among young individuals. They may appreciate being recognized and supported in their efforts.
- Skepticism and Caution: Many young people may approach these services with skepticism, especially if they’ve encountered challenges with similar initiatives in the past. Trust in the effectiveness and sustainability of these programs may vary.
- Expectations for Results: Expectations for tangible results and impact are likely to be high. Young people will likely want to see concrete outcomes in terms of education, employment opportunities, and community development.
It’s essential to actively engage with young people from these regions to understand their specific needs and expectations, as well as to gather feedback on the effectiveness of these services. Such feedback loops can help adjust and improve the programs to better meet the evolving needs of the target demographic.
8. What is your assessment of this network of support for the promotion of opportunities for talented young people?
– The bunch of services and network of support outlined for the promotion of opportunities for talented young people and the collective intelligence of the civil society in a bottom-up process appear to be comprehensive and promising.
The services and network of support designed shows great potential for promoting opportunities for talented young people linked to the renewal of EC. It can contribute to Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth development, education, innovation, and community engagement in Africa and South America while strengthening Europe’s global leadership and competitiveness. However, careful planning, sustainability, adaptability, and a strong focus on impact assessment will be essential for its continued success!
A more detailed assessment of this process could be the following:
- Diversity of Services: The program offers a diverse range of services, including: mentorship, scholarships, workshops, funding opportunities, and platforms for collaboration. This diversity can cater to the multifaceted needs of young people and civil society.
- Global Reach: The initiative’s international focus, with alliances like the South-South-North AAAA and platforms like sponsorscholarships.org or finance-funding.org, extends its reach to a global scale, providing opportunities for young people beyond Europe.
- Holistic Approach: The program addresses various aspects of the civil society and CCSCY development, including education, skills development, entrepreneurship, and local community engagement. This holistic approach ensures a well-rounded support system.
- CCSCY-Centric: By involving CCSCY in initiatives such as the CCSCY and local labelling for CCSCY-led projects, the program acknowledges the importance of young people’s voices and contributions.
- Inclusivity: The program’s focus on Africa, South America and Asia demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and recognizing talent and potential from diverse regions and cultures.
- Collaborative Opportunities: The program encourages international collaboration and knowledge sharing. It connects young people with experts, mentors, and peers from different regions, fostering a global network.
- Sustainability: It’s essential to ensure the sustainability of these initiatives over the long term. Labelling, Evaluation and Sustainable funding and continuous engagement will be crucial to maintain their impact.
- Local Adaptation: While a global approach is valuable, the program considers local nuances, cultures and adapt to the specific needs and challenges of each region within Africa, South America and Asia.
- Feedback and Evaluation: real time reactive and augmented feedback from local participants/agents and a robust data analysis system will help assess the effectiveness of the services and funding and make necessary improvements.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Being sensitive to cultural differences and local contexts is vital to ensure that the initiatives are well-received and effective in different regions.
- Measurable Outcomes: The program will establish clear, measurable outcomes to track its impact on education, entrepreneurship, economic development, and CCSCY/community engagement.
- Long-Term Vision: A Community well-defined long-term vision can provide a sense of purpose and direction, demonstrating a commitment to supporting young people beyond short-term initiatives.
9. What is your evaluation of your successful professional career throughout your professional life?
– As a senior expert who has navigated the complex worlds of food processing and construction with remarkable versatility. Today, I am the Director of an incubator for sustainable young leaders hailing from emerging countries, my journey has transcended boundaries and disciplines.
I nurtured Versatility versus Ultraspecialisation: escaping «working in a bunker/silos»
My career began as a young professional in the food processing industry. I quickly rose through the ranks due to my relentless commitment to expanding my skillset. While many of my peers opted for ultraspecialisation, I embraced versatility. I realized that a diverse skill set allowed me to see connections between seemingly disparate fields. Rather than being confined to a silo, I sought to break down the barriers that can stifle innovation and progress.
My ability to draw from multiple disciplines became a defining trait of my career. As I moved into the construction industry, I applied insights from food processing to improve production efficiency, thus revolutionizing the construction processes I encountered. This fusion of knowledge demonstrated that versatility could lead to groundbreaking solutions that transcended traditional boundaries.
Re-Designing Systems Mindset and Innovation
One of the hallmarks of my career was an unwavering commitment to re-designing systems. I was never content with the status quo. My innovative mindset, forged through my diverse experiences, led to the development of novel approaches that disrupted established norms. In construction, I introduced innovative building techniques that maximized efficiency and footprint.
These innovative achievements did more than improve the industries; they altered the way people approached problems. My career showcased that, with the right mindset and a commitment to breaking free from convention, one could transform systems and redefine the possibilities.
Connection with the Youth
As my career continued to flourish, I never lost sight of the importance of connecting with the younger generation. My belief in the power of youth was evident as he became the Director of an incubator for sustainable young leaders from emerging countries. My experience and wisdom served as an invaluable resource for these rising stars. I recognized the immense potential of young leaders and strived to empower them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the ever-changing landscape of sustainable development.
My journey is a testament to the enduring value of versatility, innovation, and the mentorship of emerging leaders. My professional life showcases the extraordinary heights that can be reached when one escapes the confines of specialization, re-designs systems with an innovative mindset, and establishes meaningful connections with the youth. It remains a guiding light for all who seek to make a positive impact on the world.
Strategic Geopolitics and Economics – EU policy on aid and cooperation with Africa, South America and Asia
The increasing strategic influence of China and Russia in Africa and South America will drive the EU to take an important turn in relations with those continents where some of the most regrettable events on the international scene frequently take place: from illegal immigration, to trafficking of drugs, diamonds, illegal waste, fake medicines… these are just some examples of an unadapted and chaotic policy on these continents in which citizens suffer the brunt of these policies.
That is why different Associations of Europe with these continents are being developed. We have an example of this at the EU-African Union Summit in February 2022 where the leaders of both continents have agreed on a common vision of a renewed partnership. The objectives of this partnership are solidarity, security, peace, sustainable and lasting prosperity and economic development for the citizens of the African Union and the European Union, now and in the future, bringing together people, regions and organizations.
This renewed partnership (the global gateway) should involve: a €150 billion Africa-Europe investment package as a start, the supply of millions of supported projects in Africa, greater cooperation on peace and security, a strengthened partnership on migration and mobility, as well as a commitment to multilateralism.
On the other hand, although relations between Asia and the EU continue to grow, the rise of Asia as the main region in the new world order is a reality in economic, strategic and political influence, which is forcing the EU to take seriously the relations with that Asian continent that increases commercial relations, which on the other hand, although they have not stopped growing in recent years, the misgivings of the ever-growing strategic and technological influence of Asia, especially China on the international scene forces us to reinforce greater cooperation between these two continents. Similarly, it is happening to the continent of South America.
10.What is your initial evaluation of this new stage of territorial cooperation of the EU with these territories in Africa, South America and Asia?
– Well, The Next Gen EU package still suffers from real huge lacks! The European Union’s new stage of territorial cooperation with South America, Asia, and especially Africa holds significant geostrategic and geopolitical importance. This move can be evaluated in several ways, with a focus on the role of Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth and civil society in overcoming limitations and renewing Europe’s leadership (Nex Gen EU is YOU!).
The European Union’s success in creating the single market has been remarkable. However, to renew its leadership, the EU must move beyond economic integration alone. It should focus on addressing global challenges, such as climate change, sustainable development, and social inequality. By doing so, the EU can demonstrate its commitment to a values-based, cooperative, and responsible global leadership that goes beyond economic considerations.
The EU’s new stage of territorial cooperation with South America, Asia, and Africa carries significant geostrategic and geopolitical implications and opportunities. The engagement of Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth and civil organisations in this process is essential for overcoming limitations and revitalizing Europe’s leadership. By actively involving these French and English and Spanish speaking stakeholders from Africa and South America, the EU can create a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to global cooperation that aligns with its values and aspirations.
Similarly, it is happening to the need for the civil society to go geostrategic or geopolitics!
Geostrategic and Geopolitical Significance:
- Economic Opportunities: Expanding territorial cooperation with South America, Asia, and especially Africa opens up new economic opportunities for the European Union. These regions are home to emerging markets, and deepening economic ties can enhance the EU’s global competitiveness.
- Diplomacy and Soft Power: Strengthening relations with these regions enhances the EU’s soft power on the global stage. By fostering climatic common goals and cooperation on issues such as climate action, security, and human rights mostly through encouraging the empowerment of the civil society, the EU+USA can position themself as key players in shaping western global governance.
- Countering Influence of Other Powers: The EU’s engagement with South America and Africa is also a response to the growing influence of other global powers, such as in Asia: China and Russia, in these regions. By increasing its presence and influence, the EU can balance and counteract the geopolitical sway of these competitors.
Roles of Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth and Civil Society:
- CCSCY as catalysts and agents for change: The Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth in Europe can play a crucial role in promoting this territorial cooperation. They bring fresh perspectives and a commitment to global issues like climate change, social justice, and human rights. Their energy and activism can drive political leaders to prioritize cooperation with other regions. African Youth (AY) could balance increasing European older population!
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Young entrepreneurs and innovators can foster economic collaboration by creating startups and ventures that tap into the markets of South America and Africa. Their ideas and innovations can be pivotal in expanding economic ties and fostering technological advancements in several topics such as AI and Energy, etc.
- Countering Influence of Other Powers: The EU’s engagement with South America and Africa is also a response to the growing influence of other global powers, such as in Asia: China and Russia, in these regions. By increasing its presence and influence, the EU can balance and counteract the geopolitical sway of these competitors.
- Education and Cultural Exchange: Encouraging educational exchanges and cultural interactions can promote a deeper understanding and mutual respect between European and partner countries. This cultural diplomacy can strengthen people-to-people ties and create a more fertile ground for cooperation.
COP 28
Finally, I would like to ask you about COP 28. Very soon the COP (United Nations Conference on Climate Change 2023) will be held from November 30 to December 12, 2023 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
11.Do you think that the leaders of the countries will take the necessary measures to adequately fight climate change?
– NO! For sure NO…. The success of leaders at COP (Conference of the Parties) conferences in adequately addressing climate change is an obvious and contentious issue. While there have been some positive developments and agreements in the past, the effectiveness of these meetings is a matter of debate.
COP conferences have their limitations and political challenges, they remain important forums for addressing climate change on a global scale. However, to complement these efforts, it’s crucial for the civil society to take action at the domestic level, and for citizens to engage in activism and demand climate action. Alternative approaches, such as regional agreements and innovation, can also contribute to more effective climate change mitigation strategies.
Here are some factors to look at why leaders may not take necessary measures:
- Political and Economic Interests: Leaders for COP and countries prioritize short-term economic and political interests over long-term environmental concerns. Taking significant action on climate change can be politically difficult, as it may involve making unpopular decisions that could affect industries and jobs.
- Lobbying and Special Interests: Powerful interest groups, particularly in sectors like fossil fuels, influence political and COP decision-making.
- International Relations: International agreements like the Paris Agreement are non-binding, and countries can choose whether or not to meet their commitments.
- National Sovereignty: Some leaders are hesitant to commit to international agreements that they believe infringe on their nation’s sovereignty but Community Civil Society/Citizens/Youth involvement will reinforce sovereignty and EUROPE/ AFRICA and beyond!.
Bias and Limitations of COP Conferences:
- Inequality among Nations: Developing countries often argue that the burden of climate change should be shared more equitably. They criticize developed nations for historical contributions to carbon emissions and their current emissions levels. This creates tensions in negotiations.
- Lack of Enforcement Mechanisms: COP agreements lack strong enforcement mechanisms, making it challenging to hold countries accountable for their commitments. This undermine the effectiveness of the agreements.
- Complex Negotiation Process: Negotiations at COP conferences involve a multitude of parties with diverse interests and in less than 2 weeks it can’t be achieved anyway. This complexity can lead to compromises and watered-down agreements.
Approaches for REAL Results:
- Domestic Policies: Instead of relying solely on international agreements, teh civi society could implement strong domestic policies to combat climate change. These policies can include carbon pricing, renewable energy incentives, and regulations to reduce emissions.
- Regional Agreements: Regional alliances or trade blocs can work together to set more ambitious climate goals and encourage member countries to meet their commitments.
- Innovation and Technology: Fostering innovation in clean energy and technology is crucial. Governments can incentivize research and development in these areas, making it economically viable for industries to transition to cleaner practices.
- Pressure on Public : Public awareness and activism play a significant role in pushing governments to take action. Grassroots movements and pressure from citizens can encourage leaders to prioritize climate change!
- Green Finance and Investments: Encouraging private sector investment in clean technologies and sustainable practices can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
12.What key measures would you introduce into the global strategy to effectively combat climate change?
– Again, I would recommend the civil society to stand up finally as a true revolution during these coming COP28 or COP29, and also COP30, etc! Mainstreaming, harnessing the Civil Society’s power is the engine of a the new impetus of EC for ongoing Strategic Geopolitics and Economics, including a strong commitment of the EU policy on AID and COOPERATION with Africa, but also with the world! The United Nations should recommend it!
The power is yours! Grab it!
