Our Key Topic Areas and the Groups We Convene

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Embracing Difference

We live in a connected age, but too often our worlds remain separate. Age, location, discipline, and affiliation serve to keep our circles small and make our ideas echo.

That's not how we do things at Salzburg Global. We bring together leaders of every kind - artists, journalists, activists, diplomats, frontline workers, entrepreneurs, and many others who live and breathe the issues that matter.

Their opinions might differ or even conflict. But what unites everyone who takes part in our sessions is that they know they don't have all the answers. Like us, they believe that uncovering new perspectives from a diverse group of people is the best way to unlock better possibilities.


Responding to Pressing Global Issues

Our programs are part of five key topic areas that look to address the most pressing global issues of our time. 

How Do We Reduce Violence, Injustice, and Global Instability?

These programs connect frontline innovators with policymakers to reconcile past conflicts, promote the rule of law, and advance pluralist values around the world.

How Can Education Systems Transform To Equip Learners for the Century Ahead?

These programs, which fall under the Salzburg Global Center for Education Transformation, explore how education is shaping the skills, knowledge and mindsets of individuals and contributing to the development of more inclusive and sustainable societies.

How Can Culture Advance Inclusive Leadership, Shape Policy, and Promote Social Justice?

These programs explore how culture in all its forms can bridge diverse perspectives, amplify underrepresented voices, and inspire collective action toward a more equitable and just world.

How Can We Promote a Future of Healthy Living and Well-Being for All?

Our programs equip leaders with the strategies and connections to effectively integrate health, equity and well-being into all policies.

How Can We Develop “Purpose + Profit” Approaches To Managing Financial Risks and Investments?

These programs seek to foster courageous, innovative, and ethical leadership in response to emerging systemic challenges.


Bringing Together Leaders of Every Kind

Our sessions include change-makers from across continents, age groups, fields of study, and cultural backgrounds. The groups we convene are intentionally:

International

We welcome leaders to our sessions from across the globe.

Interdisciplinary

We hold conversations including experienced leaders and those who are emerging. 

Intergenerational

We blend sectors and specializations when selecting participants for our sessions.


Leaving a Lasting Impact

Time and again, our Fellows tell us about the impact our programs have had on their work and lives. 

Fellows are equipped and encouraged to act - with many joining public calls to action, publicizing ideas and strategies, and launching new collaborations.

They describe a Salzburg Global experience marked by:

Breakthrough Conversations

Where assumptions are challenged, and new perspectives uncovered.

Disruptive Ideas

Where divergent voices are heard, and new possibilities explored.

Meaningful Connections

Where deep bonds are formed, and lasting networks begun.


Apply for a Program

Programs currently open for application

Upcoming Events

Jul 20 - Aug 04, 2026
Education
Created Histories, Creative Tomorrows: Distinct Moments that Shape Media Futures
Salzburg Academy on Media & Global Change
Salzburg, Austria
Sep 06 - Sep 11, 2026
Education
A Tale of 2000 Days: New Partnerships in Early Childhood
Education for Tomorrow's World
Salzburg, Austria
Oct 05 - Oct 07, 2026
Finance & Governance
A Multipolar & AI-Driven World: Are New Approaches Needed To Preserve Profit and Public Trust?
Salzburg Global Corporate Governance Forum
Salzburg, Austria
Oct 12 - Oct 16, 2026
Finance & Governance
The 3rd Policy Dialogue on Just Energy Transitions: Prosperity Post Fossil Fuels
Policy Dialogue on Just Energy Transitions
Salzburg, Austria
Oct 19 - Oct 22, 2026
Peace & Justice
The Collective Action Problem: How Should Democratic Societies Respond to Increasing State Violence without Exacerbating Polarization and Political Violence?
Violent Threats to Democratic Systems
Salzburg, Austria
Oct 21 - Oct 25, 2026
Peace & Justice
Democracy Across the Frontlines: How Can Democracy Movements Collaborate To Build Resilience Across Borders?
Salzburg Global American Studies Program
Salzburg, Austria
Nov 17 - Nov 21, 2026
Culture
Leadership in a Digital Age: Technology, Society, and Governance in Asia
Asia Policy Leadership Forum​
Salzburg, Austria
Nov 17 - Nov 21, 2026
Culture
Leadership in a Digital Age: Technology, Society, and Governance in Europe
Public Policy New Voices Europe
Salzburg, Austria
Dec 01 - Dec 06, 2026
Health
Memory Landscapes: Reclaiming Cultural Power for Health Equity
Health and Health Care Innovation
Salzburg


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Donations, no matter the size, help us create space for dialogue that overcomes barriers and opens up a world of better possibilities.

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