Former heads of government from Australia, Sweden and Nepal on Thursday discussed the shifting global order, the rise of technology and the growing influence of the Indo-Pacific during a panel at the NXT Summit 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, former Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt, and former Nepal Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai shared their perspectives on geopolitical tensions, technological disruption and emerging opportunities for developing economies.
Morrison said the world is witnessing a “reset” rather than a collapse of the global order, driven by renewed rivalry among major powers, demographic changes and rapid technological transformation. He noted that conflicts in regions such as Europe and the Middle East highlight the complexities governments must navigate, but also emphasised the transformative potential of technology, capital and young populations across the Global South.
Reinfeldt said the post-World War II international system is under strain as new technologies like artificial intelligence challenge traditional ideas of accountability and governance. He also pointed to growing geopolitical risks affecting global trade and supply chains, noting that disruptions to sea routes and rising protectionism are forcing countries and companies to rethink production and trade strategies.
Highlighting climate change and emerging trade routes, Reinfeldt added that melting ice in the Arctic could open new shipping lanes but may also trigger geopolitical competition. At the same time, he said shifting trade alliances, including stronger cooperation between Europe and India, show how nations are adapting to new global realities.
Bhattarai described the current period as an “exciting time” shaped by the fourth industrial revolution, arguing that the spread of digital technology and access to information could push democracies towards more participatory and inclusive models of governance.
He also stressed the growing role of young populations in reshaping politics and economic development, particularly in countries like Nepal.
