Governing Health for People and Planet: Geopolitics in Flux

The world faces unprecedented convergence of demographic transitions and global polycrises. Aging populations, youth bulges, migration patterns, and urbanization are reshaping socioeconomic landscapes while intersecting with climate change, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and technological disruptions. This convergence amplifies systemic risks and widens inequalities across regions and populations. The 2025 Global Risks Report identifies armed conflict as the primary immediate concern, followed closely by climate-driven extreme weather events, illustrating the interconnected nature of today's threats. Recent geopolitical shifts, particularly tensions between major powers, directly impact global health and environmental stability, while technological advancements like AI and digital health systems simultaneously offer solutions and create new divides that governments must navigate with limited resources.

Objectives

ST3 examines the complex interrelationships between geopolitical dynamics, demographic shifts, and planetary health to identify inclusive governance mechanisms promoting equity and sustainability. Specifically, it aims to: (1) Analyze how demographic transitions interact with climate change to reshape global power structures and governance frameworks; (2) Assess planetary health threats as conflict multipliers driving migration and health inequities; (3) Evaluate technology's dual role in demographic governance and health protection; and (4) Develop gender-responsive and youth-inclusive governance strategies that strengthen planetary resilience while addressing intergenerational justice. Particular attention is given to empowering youth—not merely as victims of planetary crises but as essential solution architects—through education, leadership opportunities, and participatory mechanisms that bridge generational divides and accelerate transitions toward climate-resilient societies.

ST3 Sessions include:

PS3.3		Moving Futures: Migration, Labor, and the Health of a Changing Planet
PS3.4		Peace Under Pressure: Navigating Conflict, Environment, and Population Health