Trends

11 Global Voices Shaping Today’s Geopolitical Landscape

In a world marked by the resurgence of conflict and shifting alliances, the geopolitical stage is reshaping the global balance at a pace that demands constant reflection.

Geopolitical changes are no longer distant signals—they are active forces reshaping alliances, shaking economies, and redefining global equilibrium at high speed. In such a complex environment, the goal is not to predict everything, but to know whom to listen to.

That’s why we’ve brought together eleven key voices in geopolitical thought. Some have led governments, others offer insights from academia, media, or diplomacy. All share a critical trait: the ability to offer perspective, context, and clarity on the challenges facing the world—and their implications for businesses, institutions, and citizens alike.

1. Michelle Bachelet

President of Chile (2006-2010 & 2014-2018).

michelle-bachelet

A pivotal figure in Chile’s political and social transformation, Michelle Bachelet was the first woman to lead the Health and Defense ministries in Latin America. As President, she spearheaded structural reforms in education, healthcare, and gender equality. She brings the authority of someone who has been at the heart of the most consequential decisions of our time.

 

 

2. Josep Borrell

High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (2019-2024).

josep-borrell|Josep Borrell|La crisis del Euro|josep borrell speakerWith a background in engineering, economics, and diplomacy, Borrell has witnessed the major shifts in European and global politics firsthand. He has served as President of the European Parliament and led EU foreign policy during one of its most transformative periods. His talks offer unparalleled insight into international affairs..

 

 

3. Ana Palacio

Vice-President of the World Bank (2006-2008), Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs (2002-2004)

Ana Palacio||ana palacio speaker

Ana Palacio has been at the center of key political decisions in Spain and Europe. She chaired the Legal Affairs and Internal Market Committee in the European Parliament and was the first woman to serve as Spain’s Foreign Minister. Her extensive institutional experience brings a strategic and critical lens to Europe’s evolving role.

 

 

4. Moisés Naim

Syndicated Columnist. Contributing Editor.

A leading analyst and chronicler of global power shifts, Naím is one of the most influential voices in the Spanish-speaking world. His work appears in major outlets such as El País (Spain), La Repubblica (Italy), and across Latin America. He helps audiences decode the evolving dynamics of global power.

 

 

5. Felipe Calderón

President of México (2006-2012).

|Los retos que enfrentamos|felipe calderon speakerFelipe Calderón brings a broad political background and global leadership perspective. Before his presidency, he held key roles such as Energy Minister and party leader in Congress. His tenure is known for its strategy against organized crime and reforms in economy, healthcare, and infrastructure.

 

 

6. Mauricio Macri

President of Argentine (2015 – 2019).

Macri played a crucial role in Argentina’s political, economic, and social transformation. His administration pursued state modernization, transparency, and economic openness. Today, he remains an influential voice in debates around development, governance, and leadership in Latin America.

 

 

7. Vijay V. Vaitheeswaran

Global Energy & Climate Innovation Editor at The Economist, Author of “Need, Speed and Greed”.

Vaitheeswaran leads The Economist’s coverage on energy transition and low-carbon technologies. His perspective bridges technical knowledge, geopolitical analysis, and future-focused insight. He is also a recognized expert on emerging markets and China’s influence on global economies.

 

 

8. Manuel Muñiz

Provost of IE University. State Secretary at the Spanish Foreign Ministry (2020-2021).

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A diplomat and academic with a strong institutional background, Muñiz has held fellowships including the David Rockefeller Fellowship and the Munich Young Leaders Fellowship. He is a leading voice in global dialogue and international cooperation.

 

 

 

9. José Manuel Durao Barroso

Former President of the European Commission (2004-2014) and Prime Minister of Portugal (2002-2004).

One of the most influential figures in modern European politics, Durão Barroso oversaw major developments including the Lisbon Treaty, EU enlargement, and responses to the debt crisis. His leadership emphasized integration, sustainability, and energy independence.

 

 

 

10. Helle Thorning-Schmidt

Former Prime Minister of Denmark (2011–2015), Leader in Sustainability and Human Rights.

The first woman to serve as Denmark’s Prime Minister, Thorning-Schmidt led the country through a complex financial crisis while advancing key social policies. Today, she offers deep insights on leadership, global cooperation, and social impact.

 

 

 

11. Rafael Dezcállar

Ambassador of Spain in China (2018-2024).

A seasoned diplomat, Dezcallar has served as Spain’s ambassador to China, Germany, Ethiopia, and the African Union. He is a published expert in international relations and geopolitics, recognized with the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

 

 

 


How to choose the right speaker for your event?

Each of these voices brings something unique—perspective, expertise, inspiration, or strategy. The key is finding the right profile based on your audience, format, and the impact you want to create. At Thinking Heads, we help you strike that balance. Whether it’s a large conference, a strategic session, or a more intimate gathering, we partner with you to shape both the message and the moment.

Let us help you find the ideal speaker for your event.

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Thinking Heads

Consulting firm specializing in strategic positioning and influence management of organizations and leaders

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