New York, NY – September 25 2025 – The Global Foundation for Democracy and Development (GFDD) successfully convened the VII Global Forum Latin America and the Caribbean on September 24 at Columbia University’s Lerner Hall. The annual forum, organized by GFDD and its sister organization FUNGLODE, brought together political leaders, academics and representatives of international organizations to discuss the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.
During the event, Dr. Leonel Fernández, former President of the Dominican Republic and current president of GFDD/FUNGLODE, led multiple sessions. Discussions focused on democratic resilience, sustainable development, regional cooperation and the impact of new technologies on political and social systems.Panels addressed topics ranging from the global and U.S. economies, regional development prospects and electoral cycles to immigration, social integration and the challenges of democracy in the era of artificial intelligence.
Distinguished speakers included Alicia Bárcena (Mexico’s secretary of foreign affairs), José Antonio Ocampo (Co‑Director of the Economic and Political Development Program at Columbia University), José Manuel Salazar‑Xirinachs (Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean), Mauricio Cárdenas (former Colombian Minister of Finance and Energy), Albert Ramdin (Secretary General of the Organization of American States) and U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat. The forum’s sessions were livestreamed on GFDD and FUNGLODE’s digital platforms, expanding the conversation to a global audience.
“The forum embodies GFDD’s commitment to creating spaces for debate and the exchange of ideas that foster inclusive societies with greater access to information and knowledge,” said Dr. Fernández. “By convening such a diverse group of experts and leaders, we aim to provide a roadmap to strengthen democracy, promote regional integration and seize the opportunities offered by technological and economic change.” The initiative also underscores the region’s growing role as a strategic political and trading partner.
For more information about GFDD and its programs, please contact info@gfddfl.org or visit GFDD’s website at www.gfddfl.org.
