Skip to content

Introducing this week’s theme: participation and foresight – putting people at the heart of the future

The School of International Futures take many different travelling companions from a position where they face a confusing present through the process of integrating futures into their work. This week, we find out more.

Published:
lead
lead

Thanks go to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies for this image from a foresight session.

Two key principles drive our work at the School of International Futures (SOIF).  First, the act of reflecting on the future collectively – and the capability to do so – is valuable for all communities and countries at all times. It is not a luxury: it is a necessity, an endeavour that builds vision, resilience and empowerment in an uncertain world. Second, any effective foresight process must be designed to benefit the decision and decision-maker, and use insights about the future to create change in the world today. As an integral part of this process, it is essential to confront different views, engage the periphery and ensure broad participation, particularly by those not usually listened to. The key to unlocking the transformative potential of tomorrow is through empowering citizens and holding today’s decision-makers accountable to future generations.

SOIF is an independent, not-for-profit organisation based in the UK and operating around the world, where government officials, business leaders, and activists imagine the future together. In an increasingly uncertain and volatile world, the School of International Futures exists to support communities and organisations who use foresight to impact decision-making today.