By Udo Jude Ilo
The 2025 Munich Security Conference once again brought together global leaders for critical discussions on security, governance, and economic stability. In this blog, our CEO shares key takeaways from the conference and insights on the role of people-centred justice in building a more secure world.
The just concluded Munich Security Conference lived up to its billing as one of the most important platforms for dialogue on global security. Like always, it was happening at the backdrop of significant developments that are fundamentally changing our world. With the unilateral engagement of United States with Russia to end the Ukrainian war, America drew the ire of Europe.
European leaders had very strong words for America but most importantly, Europe is reassessing its relationship with America and planning a future that is built outside of what’s been a historically strong partnership. The speech of the US Vice President which lectured Europe on ‘democracy’ was an unpleasant surprise. The Ukrainian President was clear about the determination of Ukraine not to be a bystander in discussions about its future. The war has taken a toll on Zelensky, but it has not weakened the strength of his conviction and determination for a safe and stable Ukraine. His speech was moving and incredibly painful.
The recent development in DRC and the progress being made by the Rwanda-backed M23 in Goma and neighbouring towns came to an explosive point on the conference floor. Similarly, conversations about Sudan were heated with representatives of the opposing camps forcefully making their cases. There were uplifting conversations about Africa’s place in this polarised global system and the recovery efforts in Lebanon and Syria. It was indeed such an enriching but sobering experience. Here are my major takeaways from the conference:
Europe and Africa
As I said in the panel on economic security (hosted by Ernst and Young) and the place of Africa in the current global conversation (hosted by the International Institute of Social Studies), Africa is the beautiful bride. Europe should look more to Africa for new partnerships that address economic security concerns of both regions. Africa has an abundance of affordable labour, clean energy, mineral resources and so much more.
Europe can benefit from these by forging a partnership that is built on mutual respect, shared prosperity and strong diplomatic relationships. Africa is not a charity case and should be seen as a strong partner that can strengthen Europe’s hands at a time when its relationship with the United States is at an all-time low. African leaders must create the business-friendly environment for this new partnership and a system of rule of law that offers protection for investments, citizens and companies.
People over politics
Conversations on security, stability and global world order must be about people. Listening to some of the conversations on DRC, Sudan and Ukraine, the human toll and suffering seem not to be the driving force of negotiations on the ground. No person should suffer harm because of the political, regional and global ambition of politicians. The starting point should be about how to end suffering and not the geopolitical interest of countries often far removed from the horrors of conflict.
Protecting democratic values
Democracy is under threat. It is being redefined in dangerous terms. The political mandate is being framed as immunity for executive rascality and ‘good intentions’ of government is being offered up as superior to constitutional restrictions. Free speech is accorded immunity from restraints or qualifications opening the space for hate and polarisation.
This cannot be democracy. These are the language of authoritarianism and fascism. Like cancer, it starts small but can soon undermine not only domestic stability but global security. We must begin to push back and build a solidarity bridge across countries to ensure that the fundamental principles of checks and balances, the rule of law, and individual protections are maintained.
Making democracy work
Similarly, we must see democracy as a means to an end and not an end in itself. People need solutions to their daily problems and democracy must provide the enabling system that offers those solutions. Democracy and justice are service values that lead to something bigger—legal protection, inclusion, economic empowerment, and freedom.
People-centredness is key
Finally, we need to find common values that we can rally around to help protect global security. A people-centred justice system that allows individuals to resolve their justice needs fairly and timely is fundamental to stability and economic growth. Rule of law ensures certainty of law and equal application of the law to all that come before it. We need this to build up economic security across the world and a reliable system of order that is consistent.
HiiL’s Justice Needs and Satisfaction Surveys in about 27 countries show the importance and feasibility of building justice systems premised on people’s daily needs.
I leave Munich with a sense of anxiety but with hope that we must respond to the challenges of this time with determination, consistency and a commitment to building solidarity around important values—values that are based on the best interest of the citizens of the world.
Udo Jude Ilo is the CEO of HiiL.
