Presence as Power: Lessons from the Paris Peace Forum

G100 Paris Peace Forum Meetings, France — 29–30 October 2025

 
 
In October 2025, the G100 Delegation was led at the Paris Peace Forum by Lucia de Luca, G100 Global Chair of Pay Parity & Corporate Transformation, at a gathering that felt more urgent than ever. In a world where conflicts are multiplying and violence is on the rise, the Paris Peace Forum 2025 wasn’t just another conference—it was a call to action. The honour of leading the G100 Delegation as Global Chair of Pay Parity & Corporate Transformation carried a deep sense of responsibility.
 
The Delegation arrived in Paris from different regions of the world to listen and to act. “It became clear that real change doesn’t happen behind screens; it happens in the rooms where decisions are made, where ideas clash, and where partnerships take shape,” said Lucia de Luca, commenting on the gathering.
Too often, there is an assumption that progress can be achieved through virtual engagement alone. 
 
The Forum served as a reminder that impact requires presence. It is about rebuilding connections, engaging in face-to-face discussions, and leaving with more than just business cards—it is about leaving with actionable next steps. The energy in those rooms was palpable: leaders from governments, civil society, and tech weren’t just talking; they were negotiating, challenging, and committing to solutions.
 
At the meeting, members discussed various topics, including the validity of the United Nations’ model. The question wasn’t whether the United Nations is still relevant, but how it can adapt. The consensus was clear: the veto system must evolve, financing models need overhaul, and collective action is non-negotiable. For the UN to remain effective, it must reflect today’s global realities—not those of 80 years ago. It is time for a Madame Secretary, a new kind of leadership that embraces complexity.
 
The call for more women in leadership wasn’t just about representation—it was about capability. As Michelle Bachelet pointed out, leadership in crisis demands systemic thinking, prevention, and the humility to admit that no single group has all the answers. The world doesn’t need more bravado; it needs leaders who can navigate chaos with wisdom and collaboration.
 
President John Dramani Mahama’s words resonated deeply: “80 years after the UN, Africa is still not at the table.” This isn’t just Africa’s fight—it is a reminder that global governance must be inclusive. Whether it’s health, finance, or tech, no region should be left out of the conversation.
The debate on AI governance was stark: liberal democracies must lead, or risk playing by someone else’s rules. Many speakers highlighted critical gaps in the current geopolitical landscape against the influence—or distortion—of AI. If Europe wants to shape AI’s future, it must move beyond internal divisions and propose bold solutions.
 
The discussions on AI were a wake-up call. Trust and safety can’t be an afterthought—they require investment, accountability, and open-source innovation. Listening to Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, reinforced how her post-Christchurch actions proved that progress is a choice, not an accident. The message was clear: AI’s future must be shaped by all stakeholders—tech, governments, and civil society—together.
 
Special appreciation goes to the members of the delegation who demonstrated once again how impactful a group of determined leaders can be. Gratitude is extended to Patricia Elias, Nigara Mirdad, Raphael von Aulock, and Lucia de Luca for their commitment and leadership throughout the Forum.
 
Show Up – Real change happens where decisions are made.
Speak Up – If you have a seat at the table, use your voice.
Follow Up – Ideas without action are just words.
 
The Paris Peace Forum wasn’t just about listening—it was about owning the responsibility to act. As the world navigates an era of AI, geopolitical shifts, and climate crises, the choice becomes clear: Will society be a spectator, or will it be the force rewriting the rules? The answer begins with showing up—and then doing the work.
 
Convenors:
Lucia de Luca, G100 Global Chair, Pay Parity & Corporate Transformation Wing
Patricia Elias, G100 Global Chair, Government & Ministerial Advocacy Wing