The Lugano Global Forum: A New Stage for Global Dialogue

Lugano (October 6, 2025) - Former European Commission President Romano Prodi, former President of the Czech Republic Vaclav Klaus, FT Commentator Martin Wolf, Former Editor of The Economist Bill Emmott, and OECD Trade Director Marion Jansen will headline an array of leading leaders in finance, politics, media, business and technology speaking at the inaugural edition of the Lugano Global Forum (LGF).

The event, to be held November 10-11, 2025, in partnership with the City of Lugano, is an invitation-only international meeting limited to 120 people. Its mission is “To Better Understand Our Rapidly Changing World” and the theme of Lugano Global Forum 2025 is “The Certainty of Uncertainty: Navigating The New World Disorder.” 

With the City of Lugano and the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) as Partners, the Forum has been designed as an intimate but world-class gathering, with a focus this year on global trade, tariffs, geopolitics, economic prospects, and the rapidly growing impact of artificial intelligence.

“Our aim with the Lugano Global Forum is to return to the roots of these world economic summits, where quality is more important than quantity,” said Alan Friedman, veteran journalist and newly appointed Director of the Forum.

“The Lugano Global Forum is not a conference, it is a conversation — an encounter of leaders and ideas in an atmosphere of elegance and intimacy,” added Barbara Erskine, Programme Director.

“The City of Lugano is pleased to be partnering with the Lugano Global Forum,” said Michele Foletti, Mayor of Lugano. “We believe that our city is not only an especially beautiful part of Switzerland, but is becoming an increasingly important center for business and innovation.”  More Formal / Institutional

“The Lugano Global Forum represents an invaluable opportunity for our students. Direct interaction with distinguished international leaders and experts not only enriches their academic journey, but also encourages them to develop into responsible and engaged citizens within a global society,” stated Luisa Lambertini, Rector of USI.