What does it take to lead in an age of uncertainty?

In this episode of Future Cooperation Podcast, Jonathan Glennie sits down with former President of Peru Francisco Sagasti to explore the future of democracy, international cooperation and global governance in an increasingly complex world.

Drawing on decades of experience as an engineer, academic, policymaker and head of state, Sagasti reflects on why today's challenges—from artificial intelligence to geopolitical fragmentation—require a new way of thinking. Together, they discuss the limits of traditional political divisions, the evolving meaning of democracy, the role of multilateral institutions and why international cooperation remains essential in addressing global problems.

Despite the turbulence of our times, Sagasti shares why he remains hopeful about the next generation and the future of democratic leadership.

Topics discussed: democracy, artificial intelligence, global governance, multilateralism, international cooperation, leadership and the future of global development.

What is the real purpose of data? Is it simply to provide evidence, or does it also shape power and influence the way societies make decisions?

In this episode of the Future Cooperation Podcast, Jonathan Glennie from the Global Cooperation Institute reflects on how his thinking about data has evolved over three decades working in international development and public policy. From evidence-based policymaking and aid transparency to the importance of dialogue, he explores why better information alone doesn't necessarily lead to better outcomes.

This conversation examines the relationship between evidence, power, and dialogue, arguing that meaningful progress depends not only on having access to data, but on creating the conditions for collective understanding and better decision-making.

“Investment” is often misunderstood in global development debates. For some, it refers to finance and private markets. For others, it has become a contested term in discussions about aid and public spending.

In this episode, we explore a broader definition: investment as the long-term creation of public value.

From health systems and education to climate action, biodiversity, and crisis response—this conversation reframes investment as the foundation of collective futures, not just financial return.

We also discuss how the language of “aid” shapes (and sometimes limits) how we think about global cooperation and responsibility.