The Inclusive Governance Initiative, launched in 2020 as Chatham House marked its centenary, is exploring how global governance can be reshaped to meet the challenges of today’s world.
The multilateral system is facing a crisis of confidence, with significant deficits in terms of legitimacy, transparency, accountability and equitable representation. Many see global governance as a distant diplomatic exercise which cannot keep pace with the scale, complexity and urgency of the challenges we face. The need for meaningful inclusion of a wider range of non-state actors and the more equitable participation of states is being underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic.
This paper shares observations from roundtables that brought together traditional stakeholders and experts with newer actors in global governance. Drawing on lessons emerging from new and fast-moving policy areas, this paper highlights 10 cross-cutting insights on how to strengthen the legitimacy and effectiveness of global governance through shaping mechanisms and institutions that are more inclusive.
