As we look ahead to November, host Sewar Quran, Associate Director at Global Counsel, is joined by colleagues to unpack three major developments shaping the global policy agenda: the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, the COP30 climate conference in Brazil, and a shifting debate on European defence and transatlantic security.

First, Sewar is joined by Alexander Smotrov, Director, to discuss the upcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg. Their conversation explores rising geopolitical tensions between the US and South Africa, Washington’s accusations of anti-Americanism, and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s strong rebuttal. They consider what the episode reveals about diplomacy in an era of fragmented power and competing global agendas, and how it tests the limits of cooperation among the world’s major economies. Learn more about our work in Europe and Eurasia.

Next, Evan Guy, Senior Associate, joins to examine preparations for COP30 in Brazil, a pivotal moment in global climate politics marking five years to 2030. They explore the evolving geopolitics of climate action post-COP29, the renewed focus on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and efforts to agree a roadmap for climate finance through the new collective quantified goal (NCQG). The discussion also touches on biodiversity, nature conservation, and the growing intersection between environmental policy and international development. Learn more about our Climate, Energy and Net-Zero practice.

Finally, Denzil Davidson, Director, reflects on Europe’s emerging defence debate amid shifting transatlantic dynamics and questions about the US security guarantee under President Trump. Their discussion considers Europe’s need to enhance its own capabilities, reassess its dependence on American support, and chart a more autonomous strategic path for the decade ahead.

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