What will the world look like in the decades ahead—and how ready are we for it?
These big questions took center stage on January 30 at the Russia National Centre in Moscow, where international thinkers, policymakers, and industry experts gathered for the first-ever Expert Dialogues under the Open Dialogue framework. The forum zeroed in on five global megatrends already reshaping economies, technologies, and societies worldwide.
Organized by the Russia National Centre in partnership with the Centre for Cross-Industry Expertise “The Third Rome” and supported by the Presidential Executive Office, the event marked a new chapter for Open Dialogue as a global platform for future-focused conversation.
A Global Platform for Global Change
Setting the tone was Maksim Oreshkin, Deputy Head of the Russian Executive Administration for Global Trends, who outlined the five forces he believes will define global development for years to come.
“By 2026, Open Dialogue has become an international platform uniting experts from across the world to discuss the future of the planet, the global economy, and society,” Oreshkin said. “Understanding these processes is essential for preparing for change and leveraging it in the interests of nations and, above all, people.”
He noted that while artificial intelligence is transforming nearly every aspect of life, it is no longer treated as a standalone trend.
“I will focus on five key megatrends — while not treating artificial intelligence as a separate trend, because it has already become an integral part of our lives.”
1. Globalisation, Reimagined: The Rise of a Multipolar World
The first megatrend points to a shift away from traditional, centralized globalization toward a more decentralized and multipolar system, often described as Globalisation 2.0.
BRICS+ nations and the Global South are playing a larger role in trade, technology, and demographics, with more countries engaging in direct trade and settling transactions in national currencies.
“Globalisation hasn’t ended; it has changed,” Oreshkin said. “Sovereignty — at state, social, and economic levels — is now the key to competitiveness. Only countries that preserve all three levels can lead in a multipolar world.”
Major powers such as China, the United States, India, and Russia continue to shape global dynamics, while emerging growth hubs like Indonesia and “connector countries” such as the United Arab Emirates are gaining influence. Meanwhile, digital platforms and decentralized networks are becoming economic players in their own right.
2. Platformisation and the Automation of Institutions
From healthcare and education to finance and trade, platforms and algorithms are increasingly making decisions once handled by institutions.
“Platform solutions enhance efficiency and reduce transaction costs through self-adjusting algorithms,” Oreshkin explained. “Countries without technological sovereignty risk becoming dependent on external platforms, which can have strategic consequences during conflicts.”
The message was clear: control over technology infrastructure is fast becoming a cornerstone of national resilience.
3. A Financial System in Transition
The global financial system, long dominated by traditional models, is under strain. Rising public debt, growing inequality, and geopolitical fragmentation are forcing change.
“The traditional model of cross-border payments is under pressure. Decentralised systems and digital technologies are reshaping the financial system,” Oreshkin said.
Blockchain, AI, and digital platforms are paving the way for alternative financial mechanisms, including decentralized finance, that challenge long-standing norms.
4. Demographic Reality Check
Perhaps the most sobering megatrend discussed was demographics. Fertility rates are falling worldwide, while populations are aging rapidly—even in regions once considered young.
“Even in Africa, the ratio of elderly to working-age population will rise to 30%, and globally to 56%,” Oreshkin noted.
As working-age populations shrink, countries will face mounting pressure on pension systems, healthcare, and social services. Demand for education may decline, while the need for medical and elder care grows—trends that are deeply interconnected.
5. Human Capital in a High-Tech World
The final megatrend focused on people—their skills, health, and adaptability in a technology-driven era.
Autonomous systems, AI, digital platforms, and biotechnology are reshaping how people learn, work, and live.
“AI is both a challenge and an opportunity,” Oreshkin said. “It allows personalized learning paths and supports teachers.”
As professions evolve, demand is expected to grow for mid-level specialists, while companies will need to retrain workers and help employees transition into new roles. Social systems, too, must adapt to support active longevity in an aging world.
One World, Many Realities
To bring these trends to life, Oreshkin illustrated them through everyday perspectives—a manager in Asia, a farmer in Africa, a homemaker in Eastern Europe—showing how global shifts play out locally.
Innovation in Africa could transform education and healthcare, Eastern Europe may see more efficient social systems and rising living standards, and Asia will face an urgent need for workforce reskilling.
“The world has entered a period of significant change in finance, demography, and other spheres,” Oreshkin concluded. “States, companies, and individuals must be prepared. Those who understand and adapt will shape the future.”
Extending the Conversation Beyond the Forum
This year also marked the launch of Open Dialogue on Air, a new podcast series featuring global voices discussing international development and future trends. Guests include Chinese sci-fi author Chen Qiufan, Dr. Selina Neri of the Future Readiness Academy, Dr. Rais Hussin of EMIR Research, Prof. Wang Feng of UC Irvine, and global strategist Dr. Parag Khanna.
First held in April 2025, Open Dialogue has already brought together more than 3,000 experts from dozens of countries. By presidential decree, the forum will now take place annually, cementing its role as a space for ideas shaping tomorrow’s world.Social Links
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Via: Modasul Web