Delivered in partnership by Aspen Institute UK and London Politica.

How can leaders navigate geopolitical risk, protect their organisations, and still act decisively in a fragmenting world? 

The international order is undergoing profound change. Renewed great-power competition, technological disruption and shifting political alliances are reshaping the environments in which organisations operate. For those in positions of leadership, understanding these developments is only part of the challenge. The harder question is how to respond. 

The Geopolitical Leadership Seminar brings together 30 senior leaders from business, government, civil society and the non-profit sector for three days of rigorous discussion, reflection and practical engagement with the challenges of contemporary geopolitics. 

Combining the Aspen Institute’s distinctive approach to values-based leadership with London Politica’s expertise in geopolitical risk, the seminar offers an opportunity to step outside the pressures of day-to-day decision-making, challenge established assumptions and explore what it means to lead responsibly in an increasingly uncertain world. 

What participants will gain 

• Deeper geopolitical understanding: Explore the forces reshaping the international order and their implications for organisations and society. 

• Stronger leadership judgement: Reflect on the values, assumptions and responsibilities that inform decisions under uncertainty. 

• Practical crisis experience: Test your ability to negotiate, collaborate and respond to an evolving geopolitical crisis. 

• Cross-sector perspectives: Learn alongside senior leaders whose experiences and approaches may differ profoundly from your own. 

• Meaningful connections: Build relationships with a carefully selected group of peers from across sectors. 

The moderators 

Ruth Girardet | Aspen Head Moderator 

Ruth brings extensive experience of leadership development, organisational ethics and moderated dialogue. She has led Aspen leadership seminars across Europe and Africa and developed Aspen UK’s Rising Leaders Fellowship. 

Manas Chawla | Founder and CEO, London Politica 

Manas advises senior executives and international organisations on geopolitical risk and strategy. His work spans international affairs, technology and crisis preparedness, including executive briefings and simulations for senior decision-makers. 

Together, Ruth and Manas will bring Aspen’s tradition of searching dialogue into conversation with the practical challenges of contemporary geopolitical leadership. 

Participation 

The seminar is designed for a select group of 30 senior leaders from the private, public and non-profit sectors. 

Participation fee: £4,890, with a 10% early-bird discount for anyone who registers by the end of the 2026. The fee includes the full seminar programme, crisis simulation, accommodation in Oxford, meals and associated programme activities. 

A limited number of scholarship places are available for participants from charities, non-profit organisations and the public sector. 

Register your interest 

Join a small group of leaders prepared to question assumptions, confront uncertainty and explore what responsible leadership demands in a changing world.