We are living in an unprecedented era of new global challenges and uncertainty. In his keynote at Frontiers Forum Live 2023, Ban Ki-moon spoke of the need for global solutions to address global crises such as armed conflict, pandemics and climate change that are inherently intertwined and interconnected. He explained that these solutions must be rooted in open science, partnership, and innovation - centered on enhancing health, security, sustainability and prosperity for all.

Ban Ki-moon served as Secretary-General of the United Nations for two consecutive terms between 2007-2016. As Secretary-General, he focused on mobilizing world leaders around a set of new global challenges, from climate change and economic upheaval, to pandemics and increasing pressures involving food, energy and water. Mr Ban oversaw the widest global consultation in history as the United Nations canvassed governments, partners and individuals in drafting a successor agenda to the Millennium Development Goals. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted in September, 2015, is a bold and universal plan with 17 Sustainable Development Goals for people, peace, prosperity and the planet through partnerships.