What Happens at a Global Summit?

Summits are global gatherings that explore specific topics. They’re often held in a physical location and feature lectures and panel discussions. Summits can also be virtual events.

The Eradicate Hate Global Summit brings together leaders in the fight against hate-motivated violence and provides a forum for new ideas and collaborative solutions. Its annual conference breaks down silos and convenes the world’s leading anti-hate experts—from public policy organizations, tech companies and platforms, law enforcement and federal, state, and local government agencies; mental health professionals; former members of hate groups; academic researchers and data scientists; journalists and film-makers; and more.

As hosts for the 2024 G20 summit, South Africa’s president Ramaphosa and his team will have a lot to work on. The group of 20 largest economies accounts for 85% of the world’s economy, 75% of its trade and two-thirds of the world’s population. This year’s agenda is expected to focus on moving toward more inclusive economies, addressing the growing negative impacts of climate change and regulating emerging technologies.

The UK hosted the first summit to discuss AI safety in November. It took place at Bletchley Park, the country house and estate in southern England that was home to the team that deciphered Enigma code during WWII. The summit’s 150 or so representatives discussed frontier AI—a broad term that refers to “highly capable general-purpose AI models that perform a wide range of tasks and match or exceed the capabilities of today’s most advanced machines”. The Summit’s key takeaway was an agreement on the need for an international research body to oversee AI research.