Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator

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The Global Curriculum for Anticipatory Leadership

Preparing leaders for a world accelerated by science and technology 

A global coalition is setting out to develop a new leadership training paradigm that brings together decision-makers from varying disciplines, professions and geographies, and empowers them with the awareness, knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to use the great acceleration of science for the benefit of people, society and the planet.

A new paradigm for global leadership

The Global Curriculum for Anticipatory Leadership (GCAL) is a pioneering initiative designed to create a new paradigm for leadership training.

Launched by the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator (GESDA) Foundation with support from Wellcome, GCAL convenes leading academic institutions, business schools, international organizations, diplomacy leaders, industry and civil society partners. Our goal is to help decision-makers navigate the complexities of a world transformed by rapid scientific progress.

Why anticipatory leadership? 

Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and neurotechnology are reshaping industries, societies and what it means to be human at an unprecedented pace. At the same time, they coincide with challenges to international action and constructive political dialogue.

To address these complexities, today’s leaders need more than just technical knowledge. They require an anticipatory mindset that enables them to foresee and respond to these disruptions effectively. 

The GCAL approach: From local to global impact 

The reference curriculum is built to be adaptable and scalable, providing a modular framework tailored to regional and sectoral needs. It combines the following pillars:

Foundational knowledge to help bridge  mindsets between communities;

Science anticipation to explore future breakthroughs;

Science diplomacy lenses to understand their implications; and

Leadership skills and mindsets to act upon the acquired knowledge and perspectives.

 

Click on the image or the text to the right to view the full Training Framework

A growing global group of Pioneering Partners to drive anticipatory leadership

Through a collaborative network of Pioneering Partners, we design and test innovative training content, tools, and resources, creating a truly global learning experience that bridges disciplines and cultures. 

Key components include: 

  • Anticipatory Leadership Weeks (ALWs): Intensive, immersive training programs that blend local expertise with global insights, fostering cross-sector dialogue and cooperation. In 2025, they will be hosted in five locations worldwide: Istanbul (Turkey) with Sabancı University; Madrid (Spain) with IE University; Pretoria (South Africa) with the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa; San José (Costa Rica) with INCAE Business School; and Singapore with the National University of Singapore.
  • Open access digital offerings: Free, accessible training modules using the latest in digital learning tools to engage a global audience. 
  • High-level briefings: Tailored sessions for top decision-makers at global summits like the G-20 or for incoming UN Security Council members.

Shaping a community of future-ready leaders 

By 2027, the GCAL initiative aims to establish an independent, sustainable governance model, supported by a vibrant Community of Practice.

This community will serve as both an ambassador for anticipatory leadership and a valuable talent pool for organizations worldwide.

Our long-term vision is to mainstream anticipatory leadership training, ensuring that decision-makers everywhere are prepared to guide society through the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. 

Join us: Use the future to build the present

The Global Curriculum for Anticipatory Leadership is more than a training program. It’s a movement. We invite academic and diplomatic institutions, businesses, and civil society organizations to partner with us and co-create a future-ready leadership framework. Let’s equip the leaders of today and tomorrow with the tools they need to shape a more resilient and inclusive world. Interested in collaborating? Reach out to us at gcal@gesda.global

Origin story: Geneva Science Diplomacy Week 

As a first demonstration, GESDA initiated Geneva Science Diplomacy Week in 2022 in partnership with Geneva, Swiss and global academic and diplomatic institutions.

The idea was to bring together the current and next generations of leaders from around the world for an intensive week of dialogue and exchange with key international agencies, diplomatic missions, academic institutions, global NGOs, and technology leaders shaping the future of science for multilateralism (see below here for more details).

As of its third edition in 2024, Geneva Science Diplomacy Week has attracted over 500 applications from all regions of the world and now counts 90 alumni who are actively involved in scaling up this effort. Visit Geneva Science Diplomacy Week to learn more.

Leveraging simulations and apps for Anticipatory Leadership 

Experiential learning allows participants to be immersed in fictional scenarios that explore complex realities in a controlled environment. Simulations are valuable tools for anticipatory science diplomacy, because they allow participants from different backgrounds to collectively explore and experiment, practice negotiation and collaboration, and anticipate outcomes of scientific and diplomatic decisions in a safe, simulated (yet stimulating) environment, preparing stakeholders for real scenarios. 

Together with our partners, we have developed four experiential learning materials for anticipatory leadership and science diplomacy based on three of the Science Breakthrough Radar Platforms: Quantum Revolution & Advanced AI; Human Augmentation; and Eco-Regeneration & Geoengineering, using the example of Solar Radiation Modification.

Quantum diplomacy simulation: Get ready to step into a unique, interactive role-playing game where you explore the complexities and trade-offs of cutting edge of quantum technology with OQI’s Quantum Diplomacy Game. Take the role of a scientist, policy maker, diplomat, industry leader or citizen to dive into the thorny issues at the heart of multilateral governance for world-altering technologies. Developed by GESDA and INGSA. Download the background and scene setting, the workshop facilitation guide, and the resources. Or click on the image or text for the Quantum Diplomacy Game.

Neurotechnology governance simulation: Fast-forward into 2043, neurotechnology is widely integrated into daily lives, enhancing human capabilities and improving the quality of life. Yet, concerns about potential misuse and limited access in many parts of the world persist. As a major ransomware attack on brain implants hits, this simulation takes you to the International Technology Governance Observatory (ITGO) conference: Up to you to shape the policies that will guide neurotechnology’s future, whilst exploring complex ethical and practical dilemmas! Developed by GESDA and INGSA. Download the background and scene setting, the workshop facilitation guide, and the resources.

Climate engineering simulation: It’s 2035, and climate change is wreaking havoc on the planet. Geoengineering technologies offer promising solutions, but unintended consequences linger. You’re participating in a fictional Nations United General Assembly to discuss a governance framework for solar radiation modification. Role-play as a researcher, diplomat, executive, journalist, lobbyist or activist to explore scientific, ethical, societal and economic impacts of climate-altering technology. Developed by GESDA and the Centre for Social Simulations.

 

Human augmentation app: An interactive, visual learning journey using gamification to introduce human augmentation through advances in neurotechnology, drawing on content from the GESDA Science Breakthrough Radar. The app provides bite-sized scientific knowledge for the public, allowing users to explore societal, political, security, and economic implications. Download the app on Google Play and on Apple App Store. Developed by GESDA and Carbon Copy.