Policy Brief 01/2026: Faster, Fairer, Fit for Purpose: Rewiring Multilateralism in a Fragmented Era
Key information
Date: 1.2026
Location(s): Hamburg, Germany
Project description
Multilateralism is being stress-tested by overlapping crises, geopolitical fragmentation, and institutions that often struggle to keep pace with events. This policy brief sets out a pragmatic agenda for reimagining fit-for-purpose multilateralism in 2026: protecting the legitimacy and inclusiveness of universal institutions while enabling faster delivery through complementary coalitions and problem-specific partnerships. It highlights where the UN system remains essential, where mini-lateral formats can add speed and impact, and how the Global South—especially Africa—is increasingly shaping reform and outcomes.
The Centre for Multilateral Negotiations (CEMUNE) will convene discussions on this theme throughout the year and invite interest from event and content partners.
For further information, contact Kate Helfenstein at kate.helfenstein@cemune.org