With the many scenes of casualties and destruction of civilization due to the many ongoing wars, humanity is witnessing an escalation of crisis and deterioration of democracy. The prolonged Russia-Ukraine war shows no signs of conclusion, and the Israel-Hamas conflict has sacrificed too many Palestinian lives. Although war rages in the Gaza Strip brought upon an unjustified excessive force by the Israelis, there is much indifference by world leaders. The maritime attack by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, and Western nations' attacks on the western regions of Yemen, are what unfolded to be a de facto genocide of civilians. Despite this, international institutions, like the United Nations, and global superpowers failed to exert influence and leadership, neglecting humanity and vulnerable countries in crisis.

The climate crisis has recently morphed into a climate catastrophe, with heat waves, killer cold snaps, earthquakes, and floods threatening taking too many lives. The damage to underdeveloped countries that do not have the technology and resources to respond to extreme climates is unimaginable. Despite appeals from the international society, countries and transnational corporations most responsible for pollution contributing to climate change have turned a blind eye to the consequences affecting the most vulnerable countries. Greed has significantly contributed to inequality across the globe. The lack of access to even the most basic conditions necessary to sustain life as a human being has forced freedom and democracy into the corner.

In the keynote session, we will analyze the causes that oppress freedom, such as wars, the climate crisis, the backsliding of democracy, and poverty. Through interactive dialogue with activists, we will assess what efforts are needed to achieve a sustainable and just world.