We are in favour of changes that are acceptable to all people.
We believe in the power of constructive conversation.
Here are videos of our past events and information about our upcoming events.
Please join us for our next event in October 2026. The event is free and open to the public. More information coming soon.
You can also follow us on Instagram @globalvisionsry for the latest updates
A panel discussion organized by Global Visions ry and the Finnish Society for Development Research (FSDR) Date: 25.2.2026 Place: Think Corner (Tiedekulma), Yliopistonkatu 4, 00100 Helsinki Whose Future? Global Visions in a Contested World invited participants to explore the state of the world in 2026 and to reflect on what today’s shifting power dynamics mean for societies most affected by global inequality. As geopolitical tensions escalated, development priorities were reconfigured, and global governance faced new contestations, the panel asked: where does power truly lie, and whose lives and futures are prioritized? A central theme of the event was the practical meaning of the idea of a “multipolar world.” The discussion examined who gets to define global “problems” and legitimate “solutions” in such a world. It considered whether multipolarity creates considerable space for countries and communities outside the traditional centers of power, or whether it merely reshuffles old hierarchies under new guises.
Guests
Walden Bello is a globally renowned scholar and activist, Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the State University of New York at Binghamton, and co-founder of Focus on the Global South. He received the Right Livelihood Award in 2003 for his work exposing the impacts of corporate-driven globalization.
Robtel Neajai Pailey is Assistant Professor in International Social and Public Policy at the London School of Economics. A Liberian scholar-activist, her research focuses on development, citizenship, and structural transformation in Africa and the Global South.
Bonn Juego is Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä and Chair of the Finnish Society for Development Research. His work explores global political economy, particularly crises and alternatives to capitalism.
The discussion was moderated by Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff.
As 2025 draws to a close, the world faces an increasingly interconnected set of global challenges — climate change, wars, geopolitical instability, economic inequality, and uncertainty about the future. How can societies respond to this complex landscape? What visions, values, and forms of cooperation might guide humanity toward a more just and sustainable world? This State of the World 2025 panel brings together leading experts from futures studies, economics, and political science to reflect on the defining issues of our time and to share their perspectives on the paths ahead. The conversation explores themes such as the European Union’s role in global governance, the future of peace and international relations, and the kinds of economic models that could best support human wellbeing in the coming decades. Panelists
Sirkka Heinonen Professor Emerita of Futures Studies, University of Turku. A pioneering figure in Finnish and European futures research, Heinonen’s work focuses on sustainable development, societal transformation, and the futures of peace.
Johanna Vuorelma, Political Theorist and Researcher, University of Helsinki Vuorelma specializes in democracy, political narratives, and the role of the European Union in global politics.
Sixten Korkman, Economist. One of Finland’s most respected economists, Korkman has served in leadership roles at the Finnish Ministry of Finance, the EU’s Economic and Financial Affairs Council, the Research Institute of the Finnish Economy (ETLA), and the Finnish Business and Policy Forum (EVA).
Risto Marjomaa, Docent and University Lecturer, University of Helsinki A historian specializing in global history, conflicts, and colonial legacies, Marjomaa’s work spans Africa and the Middle East, with recent research on Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the long-term impacts of historical power structures on today’s conflicts.
Moderated by Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff.
As 2025 approaches its end, the world continues to grapple with overlapping global crises — climate change, wars, geopolitical instability, economic inequality, and growing uncertainty about the future. How can we respond to these interconnected challenges? What kinds of values, visions, and global cooperation might guide humanity toward a more just and sustainable future? We were honoured to host Docent and University Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (University of Helsinki) for this year’s State of the World lecture, where he outlined the key global developments, risks, and transformations defining 2025.
Risto Marjomaa is a historian specializing in global history, conflicts, colonial legacies, and the roots of contemporary crises in Africa and the Middle East. His recent work includes analyses of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the long-term impacts of historical power structures on current global tensions. This lecture was part of the State of the World 2025 event organized by Global Visions ry, followed by a panel discussion featuring leading voices from futures studies, economics, and political science.
Moderated by Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff.
As the climate crisis deepens, the need for ambitious and fair global action has never been more urgent. One proposal gaining attention is a global carbon tax — a system that would put a price on carbon emissions worldwide, aiming both to cut greenhouse gases and to fund climate solutions. But could such a policy work in practice, and what would it take to implement it on a global scale?
On Wednesday 17 September 2025, Global Visions hosted a multidisciplinary panel at Musiikkitalo Terassilämpiö, Helsinki, to discuss the feasibility, challenges, and future visions of a global carbon tax. The conversation explored how it differs from other carbon pricing mechanisms, the governance structures and international cooperation it would require, and whether it could also serve as a tool for climate justice by supporting adaptation in Global South countries.
Guests
Professor Janne Hukkinen is a Professor of Environmental Policy at the University of Helsinki, specializing in the socio-cognitive aspects of sustainability and environmental risk governance. His awards include the Finnish State Award for Public Information and the Science Book of the Year Award.
Professor Heikki Patomäki is a Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy at the University of Helsinki. His research interests include philosophy, methodology of social sciences, economic theory, global political economy, big history, futures studies, and global justice and democracy.
Juha Turkki is Development Director for Systemic Climate Solutions at the Climate Leadership Coalition (CLC), Europe’s largest non-profit climate business network. He has over 20 years of experience in climate policy, working to develop market mechanisms and governance models that enable cost-efficient investments in climate solutions and carbon removals.
Dr. Ville Seppälä has a PhD in economics. He recently produced a global carbon price and dividend simulator with support from the Kone Foundation, enabling users to explore and compare climate–carbon scenarios and income effects in real time www.globalcarbonprice.com.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As the impacts of climate change continue to intensify, so too does the need for solutions that are equitable, inclusive, and forward-looking. Climate change is not only an environmental issue—it is a question of justice, of systems and structures, and of the futures we choose to create. This public panel discussion brought together experts from diverse fields to explore the intersections of climate justice, sustainability, and future-oriented thinking. The conversation examined the responsibilities of individuals, institutions, and global actors in addressing the climate crisis—and the radical changes required to build an equitable world.
Guests:
Associate Professor Senja Laakso (University of Helsinki)
Senja Laakso is Associate Professor of Consumption Culture as Social Practices at the Centre for Consumer Society Research, University of Helsinki. She is also Adjunct Professor (Docent) in Sociology of Consumption and Sustainability at the University of Jyväskylä, and in Consumer Research at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (University of Jyväskylä)
Bonn Juego is a political economist and Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä. He currently serves as Chair of the Finnish Society for Development Research.
Professor Anja Nygren (University of Helsinki) Anja Nygren is Professor of Global Development Studies and Director of the Doctoral Programme in Political, Societal and Regional Changes (PSRC) at the University of Helsinki.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
The State of the World 2024 event featured a lecture and panel discussion that examined critical global issues and explored pathways toward a more peaceful, sustainable, and just future. Guests from diverse fields of expertise explored four key themes: Climate Action and Global Responsibility, Global Peace and Security, Gender Equality and Human Rights, and The Future of Global Cooperation and Leadership. The event concluded with an audience Q&A.
Guests:
Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (University of Helsinki): A Docent and University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki.
Professor Heikki Patomäki (University of Helsinki): A Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy.
Professor Antti Kauppinen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Practical Philosophy.
Professor Reetta Toivanen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The event began with a State of the World 2024 lecture by Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (see our other videos for the full lecture). It was followed by the panel discussion. Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As 2024 comes to a close, we face a convergence of escalating crises—climate change, wars, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and social upheavals. How can the international community address these interlinked challenges? What reforms or strengthening of global institutions might be needed to better navigate this complex polycrisis in 2025 and beyond?
We were fortunate to have Docent and Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa from the University of Helsinki provide us with an insightful lecture on the State of the World in 2024.
Risto Marjomaa is a docent and university lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History, and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His research covers the history of Africa and the Middle East, conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent work includes studies on Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. He has also presented talks on the influence of imperialism and colonialism on present-day conflicts.
This panel discussion, organized by Global Visions ry, explored the multifaceted impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on contemporary global issues, with a particular focus on human rights, democracy, and the unique challenges and opportunities AI presents to developing nations in the Global South. Our panelists, representing diverse fields from technology to social sciences, specifically addressed the societal impacts of AI. Additionally, the panel will considered future visions of a world in the age of Artificial Intelligence. The discussion concluded with audience questions.
Guests: •
Professor Teivo Teivainen: A Professor of World Politics at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Matti Nelimarkka (PhD): A University Lecturer at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä.
Professor Reetta Toivanen: A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The consumption of natural resources, failures of liberal democracy, and the power struggle that can be termed as the Second Cold War are some of the central issues that the world is facing at the end of the year 2023. On December 5th Global Visions organised a public event in Helsinki where Risto Marjomaa gave a presentation on the current state of the world discussing the aforementioned themes and more.
Risto Marjomaa is a Docent and a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent publications have dealt with such topics as Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. In addition, Marjomaa has recently presented talks regarding the influence of imperialism and colonialism on some of the present-day armed conflicts.
How can the state of the world best be improved today, at the end of the year 2023? On December 5th Global Visions organised an event where the current state of the world was first explored in the presentation given by Risto Marjomaa and then the means of improving were are discussed in this panel discussion. Max Tallberg, the chairperson of the Global Visions Association, is joined by Antti Kauppinen and Risto Marjomaa of the University of Helsinki to discuss themes such as human rights, democracy, and the idea of a world government and more.
On 27th of September 2023 Global Visions organised a panel discussion on the topic of a basic income society i.e. what kind of society would one be in both in practice and theory where a social security reform such as a basic income would be implemented as a permanent solution. Discussing the various angles and perspectives were Signe Jauhiainen, (Senior Reseacher at Kela), Petteri Räty (the chairperson at BIEN Finland), and Heikki Hiilamo (professor of social policy at the University of Helsinki). Max Tallberg, the chairman of Global Visions prepared the ground for the discussion and the debate was moderated by Petri Lahtinen, the project planner at Global Visions.
State of the World in 2022 was a lecture held during the Global Visions Forum 2022 event by Risto Marjomaa who is a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. In this lecture Marjomaa discusses the state of the world in 2022 from a societal and ecological perspective, which he views as the most pressing issues today.
Petteri Räty is the chairperson of BIEN Finland (Suomen perustuloverkosto ry), that focuses on increasing discussion about UBI, advance implementation of UBI in Finland and follow international UBI initiatives. In this presentation Räty offers an in-depth overview of the concept of a universal basic income
Risto Marjomaa, Petteri Räty and Heikki Patomäki discuss the possibilities and challenges of a universal basic income implemented as a global project. The introductory remarks for the discussion are made by the founder and chairman of Global Visions, Max Tallberg and the discussion is moderated by the project planner of the association, Petri Lahtinen.
As the climate crisis deepens, the need for ambitious and fair global action has never been more urgent. One proposal gaining attention is a global carbon tax — a system that would put a price on carbon emissions worldwide, aiming both to cut greenhouse gases and to fund climate solutions. But could such a policy work in practice, and what would it take to implement it on a global scale?
On Wednesday 17 September 2025, Global Visions hosted a multidisciplinary panel at Musiikkitalo Terassilämpiö, Helsinki, to discuss the feasibility, challenges, and future visions of a global carbon tax. The conversation explored how it differs from other carbon pricing mechanisms, the governance structures and international cooperation it would require, and whether it could also serve as a tool for climate justice by supporting adaptation in Global South countries.
Guests
Professor Janne Hukkinen is a Professor of Environmental Policy at the University of Helsinki, specializing in the socio-cognitive aspects of sustainability and environmental risk governance. His awards include the Finnish State Award for Public Information and the Science Book of the Year Award.
Professor Heikki Patomäki is a Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy at the University of Helsinki. His research interests include philosophy, methodology of social sciences, economic theory, global political economy, big history, futures studies, and global justice and democracy.
Juha Turkki is Development Director for Systemic Climate Solutions at the Climate Leadership Coalition (CLC), Europe’s largest non-profit climate business network. He has over 20 years of experience in climate policy, working to develop market mechanisms and governance models that enable cost-efficient investments in climate solutions and carbon removals.
Dr. Ville Seppälä has a PhD in economics. He recently produced a global carbon price and dividend simulator with support from the Kone Foundation, enabling users to explore and compare climate–carbon scenarios and income effects in real time www.globalcarbonprice.com.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As the impacts of climate change continue to intensify, so too does the need for solutions that are equitable, inclusive, and forward-looking. Climate change is not only an environmental issue—it is a question of justice, of systems and structures, and of the futures we choose to create. This public panel discussion brought together experts from diverse fields to explore the intersections of climate justice, sustainability, and future-oriented thinking. The conversation examined the responsibilities of individuals, institutions, and global actors in addressing the climate crisis—and the radical changes required to build an equitable world.
Guests:
Associate Professor Senja Laakso (University of Helsinki)
Senja Laakso is Associate Professor of Consumption Culture as Social Practices at the Centre for Consumer Society Research, University of Helsinki. She is also Adjunct Professor (Docent) in Sociology of Consumption and Sustainability at the University of Jyväskylä, and in Consumer Research at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (University of Jyväskylä)
Bonn Juego is a political economist and Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä. He currently serves as Chair of the Finnish Society for Development Research.
Professor Anja Nygren (University of Helsinki) Anja Nygren is Professor of Global Development Studies and Director of the Doctoral Programme in Political, Societal and Regional Changes (PSRC) at the University of Helsinki.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
The State of the World 2024 event featured a lecture and panel discussion that examined critical global issues and explored pathways toward a more peaceful, sustainable, and just future. Guests from diverse fields of expertise explored four key themes: Climate Action and Global Responsibility, Global Peace and Security, Gender Equality and Human Rights, and The Future of Global Cooperation and Leadership. The event concluded with an audience Q&A.
Guests:
Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (University of Helsinki): A Docent and University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki.
Professor Heikki Patomäki (University of Helsinki): A Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy.
Professor Antti Kauppinen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Practical Philosophy.
Professor Reetta Toivanen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The event began with a State of the World 2024 lecture by Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (see our other videos for the full lecture). It was followed by the panel discussion. Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As 2024 comes to a close, we face a convergence of escalating crises—climate change, wars, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and social upheavals. How can the international community address these interlinked challenges? What reforms or strengthening of global institutions might be needed to better navigate this complex polycrisis in 2025 and beyond?
We were fortunate to have Docent and Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa from the University of Helsinki provide us with an insightful lecture on the State of the World in 2024.
Risto Marjomaa is a docent and university lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History, and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His research covers the history of Africa and the Middle East, conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent work includes studies on Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. He has also presented talks on the influence of imperialism and colonialism on present-day conflicts.
This panel discussion, organized by Global Visions ry, explored the multifaceted impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on contemporary global issues, with a particular focus on human rights, democracy, and the unique challenges and opportunities AI presents to developing nations in the Global South. Our panelists, representing diverse fields from technology to social sciences, specifically addressed the societal impacts of AI. Additionally, the panel will considered future visions of a world in the age of Artificial Intelligence. The discussion concluded with audience questions.
Guests: •
Professor Teivo Teivainen: A Professor of World Politics at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Matti Nelimarkka (PhD): A University Lecturer at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä.
Professor Reetta Toivanen: A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The consumption of natural resources, failures of liberal democracy, and the power struggle that can be termed as the Second Cold War are some of the central issues that the world is facing at the end of the year 2023. On December 5th Global Visions organised a public event in Helsinki where Risto Marjomaa gave a presentation on the current state of the world discussing the aforementioned themes and more.
Risto Marjomaa is a Docent and a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent publications have dealt with such topics as Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. In addition, Marjomaa has recently presented talks regarding the influence of imperialism and colonialism on some of the present-day armed conflicts.
How can the state of the world best be improved today, at the end of the year 2023? On December 5th Global Visions organised an event where the current state of the world was first explored in the presentation given by Risto Marjomaa and then the means of improving were are discussed in this panel discussion. Max Tallberg, the chairperson of the Global Visions Association, is joined by Antti Kauppinen and Risto Marjomaa of the University of Helsinki to discuss themes such as human rights, democracy, and the idea of a world government and more.
On 27th of September 2023 Global Visions organised a panel discussion on the topic of a basic income society i.e. what kind of society would one be in both in practice and theory where a social security reform such as a basic income would be implemented as a permanent solution. Discussing the various angles and perspectives were Signe Jauhiainen, (Senior Reseacher at Kela), Petteri Räty (the chairperson at BIEN Finland), and Heikki Hiilamo (professor of social policy at the University of Helsinki). Max Tallberg, the chairman of Global Visions prepared the ground for the discussion and the debate was moderated by Petri Lahtinen, the project planner at Global Visions.
State of the World in 2022 was a lecture held during the Global Visions Forum 2022 event by Risto Marjomaa who is a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. In this lecture Marjomaa discusses the state of the world in 2022 from a societal and ecological perspective, which he views as the most pressing issues today.
Petteri Räty is the chairperson of BIEN Finland (Suomen perustuloverkosto ry), that focuses on increasing discussion about UBI, advance implementation of UBI in Finland and follow international UBI initiatives. In this presentation Räty offers an in-depth overview of the concept of a universal basic income
Risto Marjomaa, Petteri Räty and Heikki Patomäki discuss the possibilities and challenges of a universal basic income implemented as a global project. The introductory remarks for the discussion are made by the founder and chairman of Global Visions, Max Tallberg and the discussion is moderated by the project planner of the association, Petri Lahtinen.
As the climate crisis deepens, the need for ambitious and fair global action has never been more urgent. One proposal gaining attention is a global carbon tax — a system that would put a price on carbon emissions worldwide, aiming both to cut greenhouse gases and to fund climate solutions. But could such a policy work in practice, and what would it take to implement it on a global scale?
On Wednesday 17 September 2025, Global Visions hosted a multidisciplinary panel at Musiikkitalo Terassilämpiö, Helsinki, to discuss the feasibility, challenges, and future visions of a global carbon tax. The conversation explored how it differs from other carbon pricing mechanisms, the governance structures and international cooperation it would require, and whether it could also serve as a tool for climate justice by supporting adaptation in Global South countries.
Guests
Professor Janne Hukkinen is a Professor of Environmental Policy at the University of Helsinki, specializing in the socio-cognitive aspects of sustainability and environmental risk governance. His awards include the Finnish State Award for Public Information and the Science Book of the Year Award.
Professor Heikki Patomäki is a Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy at the University of Helsinki. His research interests include philosophy, methodology of social sciences, economic theory, global political economy, big history, futures studies, and global justice and democracy.
Juha Turkki is Development Director for Systemic Climate Solutions at the Climate Leadership Coalition (CLC), Europe’s largest non-profit climate business network. He has over 20 years of experience in climate policy, working to develop market mechanisms and governance models that enable cost-efficient investments in climate solutions and carbon removals.
Dr. Ville Seppälä has a PhD in economics. He recently produced a global carbon price and dividend simulator with support from the Kone Foundation, enabling users to explore and compare climate–carbon scenarios and income effects in real time www.globalcarbonprice.com.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As the impacts of climate change continue to intensify, so too does the need for solutions that are equitable, inclusive, and forward-looking. Climate change is not only an environmental issue—it is a question of justice, of systems and structures, and of the futures we choose to create. This public panel discussion brought together experts from diverse fields to explore the intersections of climate justice, sustainability, and future-oriented thinking. The conversation examined the responsibilities of individuals, institutions, and global actors in addressing the climate crisis—and the radical changes required to build an equitable world.
Guests:
Associate Professor Senja Laakso (University of Helsinki)
Senja Laakso is Associate Professor of Consumption Culture as Social Practices at the Centre for Consumer Society Research, University of Helsinki. She is also Adjunct Professor (Docent) in Sociology of Consumption and Sustainability at the University of Jyväskylä, and in Consumer Research at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (University of Jyväskylä)
Bonn Juego is a political economist and Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä. He currently serves as Chair of the Finnish Society for Development Research.
Professor Anja Nygren (University of Helsinki) Anja Nygren is Professor of Global Development Studies and Director of the Doctoral Programme in Political, Societal and Regional Changes (PSRC) at the University of Helsinki.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
The State of the World 2024 event featured a lecture and panel discussion that examined critical global issues and explored pathways toward a more peaceful, sustainable, and just future. Guests from diverse fields of expertise explored four key themes: Climate Action and Global Responsibility, Global Peace and Security, Gender Equality and Human Rights, and The Future of Global Cooperation and Leadership. The event concluded with an audience Q&A.
Guests:
Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (University of Helsinki): A Docent and University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki.
Professor Heikki Patomäki (University of Helsinki): A Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy.
Professor Antti Kauppinen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Practical Philosophy.
Professor Reetta Toivanen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The event began with a State of the World 2024 lecture by Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (see our other videos for the full lecture). It was followed by the panel discussion. Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As 2024 comes to a close, we face a convergence of escalating crises—climate change, wars, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and social upheavals. How can the international community address these interlinked challenges? What reforms or strengthening of global institutions might be needed to better navigate this complex polycrisis in 2025 and beyond?
We were fortunate to have Docent and Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa from the University of Helsinki provide us with an insightful lecture on the State of the World in 2024.
Risto Marjomaa is a docent and university lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History, and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His research covers the history of Africa and the Middle East, conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent work includes studies on Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. He has also presented talks on the influence of imperialism and colonialism on present-day conflicts.
This panel discussion, organized by Global Visions ry, explored the multifaceted impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on contemporary global issues, with a particular focus on human rights, democracy, and the unique challenges and opportunities AI presents to developing nations in the Global South. Our panelists, representing diverse fields from technology to social sciences, specifically addressed the societal impacts of AI. Additionally, the panel will considered future visions of a world in the age of Artificial Intelligence. The discussion concluded with audience questions.
Guests: •
Professor Teivo Teivainen: A Professor of World Politics at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Matti Nelimarkka (PhD): A University Lecturer at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä.
Professor Reetta Toivanen: A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The consumption of natural resources, failures of liberal democracy, and the power struggle that can be termed as the Second Cold War are some of the central issues that the world is facing at the end of the year 2023. On December 5th Global Visions organised a public event in Helsinki where Risto Marjomaa gave a presentation on the current state of the world discussing the aforementioned themes and more.
Risto Marjomaa is a Docent and a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent publications have dealt with such topics as Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. In addition, Marjomaa has recently presented talks regarding the influence of imperialism and colonialism on some of the present-day armed conflicts.
How can the state of the world best be improved today, at the end of the year 2023? On December 5th Global Visions organised an event where the current state of the world was first explored in the presentation given by Risto Marjomaa and then the means of improving were are discussed in this panel discussion. Max Tallberg, the chairperson of the Global Visions Association, is joined by Antti Kauppinen and Risto Marjomaa of the University of Helsinki to discuss themes such as human rights, democracy, and the idea of a world government and more.
On 27th of September 2023 Global Visions organised a panel discussion on the topic of a basic income society i.e. what kind of society would one be in both in practice and theory where a social security reform such as a basic income would be implemented as a permanent solution. Discussing the various angles and perspectives were Signe Jauhiainen, (Senior Reseacher at Kela), Petteri Räty (the chairperson at BIEN Finland), and Heikki Hiilamo (professor of social policy at the University of Helsinki). Max Tallberg, the chairman of Global Visions prepared the ground for the discussion and the debate was moderated by Petri Lahtinen, the project planner at Global Visions.
State of the World in 2022 was a lecture held during the Global Visions Forum 2022 event by Risto Marjomaa who is a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. In this lecture Marjomaa discusses the state of the world in 2022 from a societal and ecological perspective, which he views as the most pressing issues today.
Petteri Räty is the chairperson of BIEN Finland (Suomen perustuloverkosto ry), that focuses on increasing discussion about UBI, advance implementation of UBI in Finland and follow international UBI initiatives. In this presentation Räty offers an in-depth overview of the concept of a universal basic income
Risto Marjomaa, Petteri Räty and Heikki Patomäki discuss the possibilities and challenges of a universal basic income implemented as a global project. The introductory remarks for the discussion are made by the founder and chairman of Global Visions, Max Tallberg and the discussion is moderated by the project planner of the association, Petri Lahtinen.
As the climate crisis deepens, the need for ambitious and fair global action has never been more urgent. One proposal gaining attention is a global carbon tax — a system that would put a price on carbon emissions worldwide, aiming both to cut greenhouse gases and to fund climate solutions. But could such a policy work in practice, and what would it take to implement it on a global scale?
On Wednesday 17 September 2025, Global Visions hosted a multidisciplinary panel at Musiikkitalo Terassilämpiö, Helsinki, to discuss the feasibility, challenges, and future visions of a global carbon tax. The conversation explored how it differs from other carbon pricing mechanisms, the governance structures and international cooperation it would require, and whether it could also serve as a tool for climate justice by supporting adaptation in Global South countries.
Guests
Professor Janne Hukkinen is a Professor of Environmental Policy at the University of Helsinki, specializing in the socio-cognitive aspects of sustainability and environmental risk governance. His awards include the Finnish State Award for Public Information and the Science Book of the Year Award.
Professor Heikki Patomäki is a Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy at the University of Helsinki. His research interests include philosophy, methodology of social sciences, economic theory, global political economy, big history, futures studies, and global justice and democracy.
Juha Turkki is Development Director for Systemic Climate Solutions at the Climate Leadership Coalition (CLC), Europe’s largest non-profit climate business network. He has over 20 years of experience in climate policy, working to develop market mechanisms and governance models that enable cost-efficient investments in climate solutions and carbon removals.
Dr. Ville Seppälä has a PhD in economics. He recently produced a global carbon price and dividend simulator with support from the Kone Foundation, enabling users to explore and compare climate–carbon scenarios and income effects in real time www.globalcarbonprice.com.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As the impacts of climate change continue to intensify, so too does the need for solutions that are equitable, inclusive, and forward-looking. Climate change is not only an environmental issue—it is a question of justice, of systems and structures, and of the futures we choose to create. This public panel discussion brought together experts from diverse fields to explore the intersections of climate justice, sustainability, and future-oriented thinking. The conversation examined the responsibilities of individuals, institutions, and global actors in addressing the climate crisis—and the radical changes required to build an equitable world.
Guests:
Associate Professor Senja Laakso (University of Helsinki)
Senja Laakso is Associate Professor of Consumption Culture as Social Practices at the Centre for Consumer Society Research, University of Helsinki. She is also Adjunct Professor (Docent) in Sociology of Consumption and Sustainability at the University of Jyväskylä, and in Consumer Research at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (University of Jyväskylä)
Bonn Juego is a political economist and Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä. He currently serves as Chair of the Finnish Society for Development Research.
Professor Anja Nygren (University of Helsinki) Anja Nygren is Professor of Global Development Studies and Director of the Doctoral Programme in Political, Societal and Regional Changes (PSRC) at the University of Helsinki.
Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
The State of the World 2024 event featured a lecture and panel discussion that examined critical global issues and explored pathways toward a more peaceful, sustainable, and just future. Guests from diverse fields of expertise explored four key themes: Climate Action and Global Responsibility, Global Peace and Security, Gender Equality and Human Rights, and The Future of Global Cooperation and Leadership. The event concluded with an audience Q&A.
Guests:
Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (University of Helsinki): A Docent and University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki.
Professor Heikki Patomäki (University of Helsinki): A Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy.
Professor Antti Kauppinen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Practical Philosophy.
Professor Reetta Toivanen (University of Helsinki): A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The event began with a State of the World 2024 lecture by Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (see our other videos for the full lecture). It was followed by the panel discussion. Moderators Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff
As 2024 comes to a close, we face a convergence of escalating crises—climate change, wars, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and social upheavals. How can the international community address these interlinked challenges? What reforms or strengthening of global institutions might be needed to better navigate this complex polycrisis in 2025 and beyond?
We were fortunate to have Docent and Senior Lecturer Risto Marjomaa from the University of Helsinki provide us with an insightful lecture on the State of the World in 2024.
Risto Marjomaa is a docent and university lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History, and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His research covers the history of Africa and the Middle East, conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent work includes studies on Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. He has also presented talks on the influence of imperialism and colonialism on present-day conflicts.
This panel discussion, organized by Global Visions ry, explored the multifaceted impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on contemporary global issues, with a particular focus on human rights, democracy, and the unique challenges and opportunities AI presents to developing nations in the Global South. Our panelists, representing diverse fields from technology to social sciences, specifically addressed the societal impacts of AI. Additionally, the panel will considered future visions of a world in the age of Artificial Intelligence. The discussion concluded with audience questions.
Guests: •
Professor Teivo Teivainen: A Professor of World Politics at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Matti Nelimarkka (PhD): A University Lecturer at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Dr. Bonn Juego (PhD): Senior Lecturer in International Development Studies at the University of Jyväskylä.
Professor Reetta Toivanen: A Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS).
The consumption of natural resources, failures of liberal democracy, and the power struggle that can be termed as the Second Cold War are some of the central issues that the world is facing at the end of the year 2023. On December 5th Global Visions organised a public event in Helsinki where Risto Marjomaa gave a presentation on the current state of the world discussing the aforementioned themes and more.
Risto Marjomaa is a Docent and a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. Some of his recent publications have dealt with such topics as Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine, modern racism, and the role of religion in the Sudanese civil war. In addition, Marjomaa has recently presented talks regarding the influence of imperialism and colonialism on some of the present-day armed conflicts.
How can the state of the world best be improved today, at the end of the year 2023? On December 5th Global Visions organised an event where the current state of the world was first explored in the presentation given by Risto Marjomaa and then the means of improving were are discussed in this panel discussion. Max Tallberg, the chairperson of the Global Visions Association, is joined by Antti Kauppinen and Risto Marjomaa of the University of Helsinki to discuss themes such as human rights, democracy, and the idea of a world government and more.
On 27th of September 2023 Global Visions organised a panel discussion on the topic of a basic income society i.e. what kind of society would one be in both in practice and theory where a social security reform such as a basic income would be implemented as a permanent solution. Discussing the various angles and perspectives were Signe Jauhiainen, (Senior Reseacher at Kela), Petteri Räty (the chairperson at BIEN Finland), and Heikki Hiilamo (professor of social policy at the University of Helsinki). Max Tallberg, the chairman of Global Visions prepared the ground for the discussion and the debate was moderated by Petri Lahtinen, the project planner at Global Visions.
State of the World in 2022 was a lecture held during the Global Visions Forum 2022 event by Risto Marjomaa who is a University Lecturer at the Department of Philosophy, History and Art Studies at the University of Helsinki. His fields of science include the history of Africa and the Middle-East, history of conflicts and warfare, and global history. In this lecture Marjomaa discusses the state of the world in 2022 from a societal and ecological perspective, which he views as the most pressing issues today.
Petteri Räty is the chairperson of BIEN Finland (Suomen perustuloverkosto ry), that focuses on increasing discussion about UBI, advance implementation of UBI in Finland and follow international UBI initiatives. In this presentation Räty offers an in-depth overview of the concept of a universal basic income
Risto Marjomaa, Petteri Räty and Heikki Patomäki discuss the possibilities and challenges of a universal basic income implemented as a global project. The introductory remarks for the discussion are made by the founder and chairman of Global Visions, Max Tallberg and the discussion is moderated by the project planner of the association, Petri Lahtinen.
We are also participating lively in the discussion on Twitter. You can find our profile here.
Plus, you can find us on Instagram. Join us!
We also have an interesting discussion forum on Discord on several different themes. Join our community and come to consider together how to make the world better for all people.
Join the forum and participate in the discussion! Let’s work together to create a global community and think about how to make the world a better place.
If that’s the case, then A Citizen of a New Time: A Vision of a Better World is a book you should read. In the book, Max Tallberg presents a concrete political vision of a better world. The book is available for free download.
Members have access to a separate membership portal, where participants get to sign up for events, join the discussion on the forum and get information about the meetings organized by the association.
