Welcome to the May edition of 'The Lookout'

Welcome to The Lookout, bringing you a global perspective on issues that matter. In this edition we put in focus 'Ukraine's Defense of Freedom', a panel discussion held with our partner Aspen Kyiv last month to garner support for Ukrainians today, and in the future to rebuild.

On Monday I returned from the Aspen International Partners meeting, held for the first time in person for 3 years and the inaugural Aspen Ideas: Climate in Miami. The Institute, in partnership with the city of Miami, devoted three days with over 300 speakers and 1000 attendees to discuss actions to de-carbon, with speakers Nancy Pelosie, Eric Schmidt (Technical Advisor Alphabet), Adam Silver (NBA Commissioner), Kate Brandt (CSO Google) and many more. The enormous negative impact of carbon emissions for years to come from the destruction and rebuilding of Ukraine did not go unnoticed, nor the implications for fossil fuel to fill energy disruptions. Overall, positive action is happening in the U.S., often away from the political limelight, but the scale and pace of action needs to dramatically increase. Highlights are featured in Leadership in Action section.

Top of mind for younger participants in our seminar on Demographic Challenges last month were the environment and living costs when making plans for their own future. Our next seminar Inter-generational Challenges addresses these concerns. We encourage you to participate in this important conversation.

Lastly, we invite you to join Te Kākano, our supporter's programme which provides an opportunity to be part of a community that is deeply engaged with the ideas and issues that drive the work of the Institute here in New Zealand. Join us!

Nga mihi - Christine and the Aspen Institute NZ team