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Visions of a Better World

Visions of a Better World

by Global Visions

Politics Social Sciences Society & Culture

Season 3

The Future of Democracy: Visions and Challenges

If democracy is under threat today, what might it look like tomorrow? In this episode we continue our discussion with Anniina leiviskä and Tuija Kasa to discuss the current state of Democracy. Anniina Leiviskä, Associate Professor at the University of Oulu, studies the role of education in addressing polarization and strengthening democratic dialogue. Tuija Kasa, a researcher at the University of Helsinki, has just completed her doctoral dissertation Unveiling Injustices, where she argues that the lack of Human Rights Education poses a real threat to democracy. Leiviskä and Kasa have also co-authored the book: Democratic Education in the age of Polarisation (Gaudeamus 2025). In this episode we turn our attention towards the future. We ask: What are the most urgent threats facing democratic systems? Could alternative models like deliberative democracy, citizens’ councils, or epistocracy strengthen participation — or do they risk deepening inequality? How can civic education, fact-checking, or informed voting initiatives renew democratic trust? We also consider how emerging technologies like AI could shape decision-making, citizenship, and global governance. Finally, Anniina and Tuija share their utopian ideas: What would an ideal democracy look like in the years to come? Which principles and structures could help us build a more just, inclusive, and effective democratic system for the future? Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world. Follow and learn more: Instagram: @globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry LinkedIn: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en Our music is licensed from Premium Beat.

A conversation on Democracy, Human Rights and Education

A conversation on Democracy, Human Rights and Education In this episode we sat down with Anniina leiviskä and Tuija Kasa to discuss the current state of Democracy. Anniina Leiviskä, Associate Professor at the University of Oulu, studies the role of education in addressing polarization and strengthening democratic dialogue. Tuija Kasa, a researcher at the University of Helsinki, has just completed her doctoral dissertation Unveiling Injustices, where she argues that the lack of Human Rights Education poses a real threat to democracy. Leiviskä and Kasa have also co-authored the book: Democratic Education in the age of Polarisation (Gaudeamus 2025). Together, we explore pressing questions: What are the core values we should safeguard in democratic societies? Can democracy exist without strong protections for human rights? How can education respond to polarization, populism, and the exclusion of marginalized voices? And should we look beyond Western models for inspiration to build a more inclusive democracy? Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world. Follow and learn more: Instagram: @globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry LinkedIn: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en Our music is licensed from Premium Beat.

Climate Ethics, Technology and Future Visions

Climate Ethics, Technology and Future Visions In this two-part episode, we sit down with two moral philosophers—Professor Antti Kauppinen and Dr. Simo Kyllönen from the University of Helsinki—to explore the ethical questions behind some of the most urgent issues facing the world today. Professor Antti Kauppinen is a Professor of Practical Philosophy at the University of Helsinki. His research focuses on moral psychology, well-being, and how we make ethical decisions. Dr. Simo Kyllönen is a political philosopher at the University of Helsinki, whose work explores global justice, environmental ethics, and the moral dimensions of systemic change. In part two, we turn our attention to the climate crisis, emerging technologies, and the ethics of future thinking. As the world grapples with accelerating environmental breakdown and the growing influence of artificial intelligence, we ask: What does collective responsibility mean in the face of global risks? Can technology itself be a moral actor—or is it only ever a tool? And what is the role of capitalism, rationality, and imagination when thinking about systems-level change? We close the conversation by asking our guests to share their own morally compelling visions for the future—what kind of world should we strive for, and how might we begin to get there? Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world. Follow and learn more: Instagram: @globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry LinkedIn: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en Our music is licensed from Premium Beat.

A Conversation on Moral Crises and Universal Ethics

In this two-part episode, we sit down with two moral philosophers Professor Antti Kauppinen and Dr. Simo Kyllönen from the University of Helsinki to explore the ethical questions behind some of the most urgent issues facing the world today. · Professor Antti Kauppinen Antti Kauppinen is a Professor of Practical Philosophy at the University of Helsinki, his research focuses on moral psychology, well-being, and how we make ethical decisions. · Dr. Simo Kyllönen is a political philosopher at the University of Helsinki, whose work explores global justice, environmental ethics, and the moral dimensions of systemic change. As we reach the halfway point of 2025, the global picture is marked by war, climate crisis, and rapid advances in artificial intelligence. But behind the headlines lie deeper questions: What do we owe each other, across borders and generations? How do we define justice in a global context? And can we still hold on to a sense of shared morality in a fractured world? In part one, we reflect on moral responsibility, empathy, and the ethics of conflict. In part two, we turn to climate change, technology, and visions for the future. Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world. Follow and learn more: Instagram: globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: globalvisionsry Linkedin: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en The episodes hosts: Astrid Aminoff and Max Tallberg Our music is licensed from Premium Beat.

Confronting Climate Change: Justice, Solutions and Future Visions a Panel Discussion

Confronting Climate Change: Justice, Solutions and Future Visions. A panel discussion organised by Global Visions ry. On May 7th, 2025, we gathered at Musiikkitalo in Helsinki to confront the urgent questions posed by the climate crisis and to explore pathways toward justice, sustainability, and transformative futures. 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. What does a sustainable and just future truly look like? How can climate policy better reflect the needs and perspectives of the Global South? What forms of economic transformation are necessary to ensure a livable planet? 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. The event was free of charge and held in English. All those interested in engaging with climate justice and transformative change were warmly welcomed. 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. Her research focuses on everyday life, (un)sustainable consumption, sufficiency, and sustainable wellbeing. Dr. Bonn Judge (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. With a transdisciplinary background, his research focuses on the Global South, particularly Southeast Asia and North-South relations. His recent work explores the crises and potential alternatives to capitalism, examining its political-economic, socio-ecological, and technological dimensions. 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. She is also Adjunct Professor of Environmental Policy at the University of Helsinki and Adjunct Professor of Political Ecology at the University of Tampere. Her research focuses on global extractivisms and altered socio-environments, particularly in relation to access to resources, state-making, politics of scale, and the dynamics of socionature. You can also watch the full event on our YouTube channel and website: Follow and learn more: Instagram: globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: globalvisionsry Linkedin: Global Visions Subscribe for our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en Our music is licensed from Premium Beat.

The Future of the Global South: Challenges, Justice, and Radical Possibilities (part two)

In this special episode, we explore the challenges and possibilities facing the Global South in 2025 and beyond. Our guests bring expertise in global development, political economy, anti-racism, and social justice to the discussion: Professor Franklin Obeng-Odoom – Professor of Global Development Studies at the University of Helsinki, specializing in political economy, urban development, and environmental justice. Dr. Bonn Juego – Political economist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Jyväskylä, as well as Chair of the Finnish Society for Development Research (FSDR), focusing on global inequalities and economic alternatives. Dr. Faith Mkwesha – Researcher at the University of Turku and founder of SahWira Africa International (SAWI), a nonprofit advocating for women’s and children’s rights, anti-racism, and decolonial perspectives. Learn more: https://sahwira-africa.org. We begin by examining pressing concerns for the Global South, including the flaws of neoliberal development models, the dangers of global insularity, and the role of intersectionality in building global solidarity. Dr. Mkwesha introduces the African philosophy of Ubuntu—which emphasizes interconnectedness and collective well-being—as a framework for fostering global responsibility and cooperation. In the second half, we shift our focus to future visions, asking: What does an ideal world for the Global South look like by 2050? What alternative economic models could prioritize local needs and autonomy? How can governments, international organizations, and individuals take action to ensure a more just and sustainable future? Join us as we critically unpack the structural challenges facing the Global South while imagining radical possibilities for transformation—from economic justice to anti-racism, from intersectionality to Ubuntu. Suggested Reading: Obeng-Odoom, F. (2025). Book Review: Economic Diversification in Nigeria: The Politics of Building a Post-Oil Economy by Zainab Usman. The Review of Black Political Economy, 0(0).https://doi.org/10.1177/00346446251315935. Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world. Follow and learn more: Instagram: globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: globalvisionsry Linkedin: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en The episodes hosts: Astrid Aminoff and Max Tallberg Our music is licensed from Premium Beat.

The Future of the Global South: Challenges, Justice, and Radical Possibilities (part one)

In this special episode, we explore the challenges and possibilities facing the Global South in 2025 and beyond. Our guests bring expertise in global development, political economy, anti-racism, and social justice to the discussion: Professor Franklin Obeng-Odoom – Professor of Global Development Studies at the University of Helsinki, specializing in political economy, urban development, and environmental justice. Dr. Bonn Juego – Political economist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Jyväskylä, as well as Chair of the Finnish Society for Development Research (FSDR), focusing on global inequalities and economic alternatives. Dr. Faith Mkwesha – Researcher at the University of Turku and founder of SahWira Africa International (SAWI), a nonprofit advocating for women’s and children’s rights, anti-racism, and decolonial perspectives. Learn more: https://sahwira-africa.org. We begin by examining pressing concerns for the Global South, including the flaws of neoliberal development models, the dangers of global insularity, and the role of intersectionality in building global solidarity. Dr. Mkwesha introduces the African philosophy of Ubuntu—which emphasizes interconnectedness and collective well-being—as a framework for fostering global responsibility and cooperation. In the second half, we shift our focus to future visions, asking: What does an ideal world for the Global South look like by 2050? What alternative economic models could prioritize local needs and autonomy? How can governments, international organizations, and individuals take action to ensure a more just and sustainable future? Join us as we critically unpack the structural challenges facing the Global South while imagining radical possibilities for transformation—from economic justice to anti-racism, from intersectionality to Ubuntu. Suggested Reading: Obeng-Odoom, F. (2025). Book Review: Economic Diversification in Nigeria: The Politics of Building a Post-Oil Economy by Zainab Usman. The Review of Black Political Economy, 0(0).https://doi.org/10.1177/00346446251315935. Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world. Follow and learn more: Instagram: globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: globalvisionsry Linkedin: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en The episodes hosts: Astrid Aminoff and Max Tallberg Our music is licensed from Premium Beat.

The Future of Global Governance (part two): A Possible World

In this episode, we continue our discussion on Global Governance with Professor Heikki Patomäki and are also joined by Professor Teivo Teivainen from the University of Helsinki. Patomäki and Teivainen co-authored a book on this theme 20 years ago, titled A Possible World: Democratic Transformation of Global Institutions (2004). Patomäki has continued exploring this theme more recently in his book World Statehood: The Future of World Politics (2023). Teivainen has examined the power of social movements in Challenging Authoritarian Capitalism: The Transformative Power of the World Social Forum. We trace the historical roots of global governance, from cosmopolitan thinkers to post–World War II intellectuals who explored and advocated for the idea of a World State. Patomäki shares his vision for overcoming the limitations of fragmented institutions like the UN and WTO, emphasizing that reimagining global cooperation is vital to addressing existential threats such as climate change, inequality, and geopolitical conflict. Professor Teivo Teivainen: A Professor of World Politics at the University of Helsinki. His current research focuses on transnational social movements, global political economy, and theories of democracy. Teivainen has received numerous awards for his work, including the Amartya Sen Prize at Yale University (2015). For more information about Professor Teivo Teivainen visit: Instagram: @teivoteivainen Website: https://researchportal.helsinki.fi/en/persons/teivo-lauri-teivainen Professor Heikki Patomäki: A Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy at the University of Helsinki. His research interests include philosophy, the methodology of social sciences, economic theory, global political economy, big history, futures studies, and global justice and democracy. His latest book is World Statehood: The Future of World Politics (Springer, 2023). For more information about Professor Heikki Patomäki visit: Facebook: Heikki Patomäki Website: https://patomaki.fi/en/who/ Tune in to explore a vision for a better framework of global governance. Follow Us and Connect: Follow and learn more: Instagram: globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: globalvisionsry LinkedIn: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/en Our Music is Licensed from Premium beat.

The Future of Global Governance: Exploring World Statehood (Part One)

In this episode, we sit down with Professor Heikki Patomäki from the University of Helsinki to discuss his latest book, World Statehood: The Future of World Politics. Patomäki explores the bold idea of a world state as a solution to the complex challenges of global governance. We trace the historical roots of global governance, from cosmopolitan thinkers to post–World War II intellectuals who explored and advocated for the idea of a World State. Patomäki shares his vision for overcoming the limitations of fragmented institutions like the UN and WTO, emphasizing that reimagining global cooperation is vital to addressing existential threats such as climate change, inequality, and geopolitical conflict. World Statehood has been described as a “must-read,” with one recent review stating: “The book convincingly argues that new forms of world political community are possible, but they will only emerge as people reach a larger understanding of their belonging to the planet and not just to countries” (Ikenberry, Foreign Affairs, 2024). Tune in to gain insights into these pressing questions and explore a vision for a better framework of global governance. For more information about Professor Heikki Patomäki: Facebook: Heikki Patomäki Website: https://patomaki.fi/en/who/ Follow Us and Connect: Instagram: @globalvisionsry YouTube: GlobalVisionsry (Check out our Panel Discussions) LinkedIn: GlobalVisionsry website: www.globalvisions.fi/en Our Music is Licensed from Premium beat.

Season 2

State of the World 2024 Panel Discussion

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? Join us for the State of the World 2024 event, featuring a lecture and panel discussion that examines today’s critical global issues and explores pathways toward a more peaceful, sustainable, and just future. We have guests from diverse fields of expertise to explore 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 will conclude 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. 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 on 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. Professor Heikki Patomäki (University of Helsinki), a Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy. His research interests include philosophy, methodology of social sciences, economic theory, global political economy, big history, futures studies, and global justice and democracy. His latest book is World Statehood: The Future of World Politics (Springer 2023). Professor Antti Kauppinen (University of Helsinki) a Professor of Practical Philosophy, specializing in ethics and metaethics. His research includes topics such as normativity, well-being, moral sentiments, and the meaning of life. He was the Principal Investigator of the Academy of Finland’s Responsible Beliefs: Why Ethics and Epistemology Need Each Other project (2019–2023) and is currently co-PI on the Kone Foundation project The Many Faces of Inquiry(2024–2028). Professor Reetta Toivanen (University of Helsinki) a Professor of Sustainability Sciences at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS). She is also the Vice-Director of the Centre of Excellence in Law, Identity, and the European Narrative and currently leads its subproject on Migration and the Narratives of Europe as an “Area of Freedom, Security, and Justice”, funded by the Academy of Finland (2018–2025). 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 then followed by this panel discussion. Watch the full panel discussion:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sULO0dy8Zvo&t=2973s Connect and Follow: Instagram: globalvisionsry YouTube: GlobalVisionsry LinkedIn: GlobalVisions www.globalvisions.fi/en

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