Messages for Leaders Towards a World of Difference

Abstract

Ideas are a vigorous global currency and matter most for challenges which are too big or too complex and have to be collectively envisaged and addressed. Cities and the global ocean hold many hopes but require empowering actions by leaders able to understand and influence the interdependency of systems, build consensus, and mobilise stakeholders. What would be the most incisive insights for leaders at all governance levels to become champions of change? What are the priorities for cross-sector, cross-level, cross-stakeholder engagement at a moment when humanity is on the verge of multiple changes? This final chapter brings together key insights and messages for the committed to lead change towards a radically better future. Purposeful cross-implementation of SDG11 and SDG14 can lead to multiple benefits at all levels. Sustainability asks for the local, regional, national, and international actions to be fully coherent and aligned and bring the higher multiplier effect and impact. If all cities were adopting and preserving vulnerable marine ecosystems or protected areas, the overall effect could be greatly amplified. Significant data and insights are needed to address systemic stalemates that obstacles are overcome, lofty opportunities are co-created, and new social contracts are sealed. Trust, resilience, and inclusiveness may have never been as important as in the post-truth era in this closer-knit world, regulated by the force of oceans and powered by the will of humans.

Watercolour 11 Istanbul, Only Transcontinental World City