KEYNOTE SPEECHES
IN-PERSON OR ONLINE
Sharing a unique blend of scientific expertise, practical fieldwork, and collaboration with political leaders and diplomats in dozens of countries worldwide.
At the core of emerging challenges in the new world order, water is increasingly recognized as a critical geopolitical issue. It plays a crucial role in reshaping power dynamics and international relations. In my speeches, I will explore with you fundamental questions: Are we on the brink of a global water shortage, and what actions can we take to address the water crisis? Given the increasing number of international water-related tensions, is there a risk of escalating into 'water wars'? What can be done to mitigate this risk and avoid conflicts ? How are climate change, along with other environmental and socio-economic shifts, influencing water security? We'll consider how water diplomacy could be key to resolving significant water-related challenges and preventing future conflicts. We will also examine the role of water in shaping geopolitics and foreign policies.
Testimonials
"His ability to communicate with clarity and passion immediately captured the interest of all participants. During the question-and-answer sessions that followed his presentation, Olivier Cogels confirmed his expertise by responding in-depth and relevance to the audience's inquiries. His unquestionable mastery of the subject, exceptional pedagogical skills, and talent for engaging the audience make him a discerning choice for any event related to geopolitics and water diplomacy. Olivier Cogels' contribution significantly enriched our webinar, and I am convinced he will bring substantial added value to other future events. Congratulations, Olivier, for delivering a memorable and enriching presentation that undeniably played a key role in the success of our hydrology webinar in Africa. Your participation left a lasting impression on all the participants."
Anaëlle Cloarec, organizer of a webinar on Hydrology in Africa, Eumetsat, Darmstadt, Germany
"Many, many thanks for your great contribution! These two hours were totally inspiring."
Tobias Siegfried, Hydrosolutions, organizer of a course on Conflict and Cooperation in International River Basins at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETHZ) "Sa présentation a été remarquable par sa clarté, sa pertinence et son professionnalisme. Sa contribution a permis d'enrichir significativement notre programme de formation en offrant aux délégués du Jeunes Diplomates MUN 2024 une compréhension approfondie des défis liés à l'utilisation responsable des ressources en eau et à la sécurité alimentaire au Sahel. Son expertise, sa clarté et son engagement ont captivé notre audience et ont suscité un réel intérêt pour cette question cruciale parmi les jeunes leaders que nous cherchons à sensibiliser et à former aux questions d’envergures mondiales." Safiatou Mody Seck, organisatrice du webinaire "Introduction à l'Hydro-diplomatie". Young Diplomats Model United Nations (Jeunes Diplomates MUN) 2024
Tobias Siegfried, Hydrosolutions, organizer of a course on Conflict and Cooperation in International River Basins at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETHZ) "Sa présentation a été remarquable par sa clarté, sa pertinence et son professionnalisme. Sa contribution a permis d'enrichir significativement notre programme de formation en offrant aux délégués du Jeunes Diplomates MUN 2024 une compréhension approfondie des défis liés à l'utilisation responsable des ressources en eau et à la sécurité alimentaire au Sahel. Son expertise, sa clarté et son engagement ont captivé notre audience et ont suscité un réel intérêt pour cette question cruciale parmi les jeunes leaders que nous cherchons à sensibiliser et à former aux questions d’envergures mondiales." Safiatou Mody Seck, organisatrice du webinaire "Introduction à l'Hydro-diplomatie". Young Diplomats Model United Nations (Jeunes Diplomates MUN) 2024
Available speeches (including Q&A)
Confronting the Global Water Crisis: Understanding Challenges and Charting Solutions
In a world where images of a drying planet stir fear and debate, our conference is dedicated to critically examining and reassessing the global water crisis. We aim to unravel its multifaceted aspects and identify practical solutions. By delving into issues of water scarcity, quality, overexploitation, and governance, we aim to provide a balanced view that cuts through alarmist headlines to reveal the facts. The conference will highlight innovative technologies, sustainable resource management strategies, and emphasize the need for increased investments. Recognizing the crucial role of international cooperation, we will explore how these collaborative efforts can prevent conflicts and influence global dynamics. Join us for an insightful exploration into securing this vital resource for our future. Towards Water Wars: Myth or Reality ?
In a global context where water is emerging as an increasingly geostrategic issue, this conference delves deep into the pressing question: Are water wars an imminent threat to our future, or are there more nuanced realities behind the alarmist rhetoric? We will address these questions by adopting a critical perspective, challenging common assumptions, and examining the facts. The conference will revisit historical water-related conflicts to draw lessons, while scrutinizing current and potential tensions, with a particular focus on underlying causes. At the heart of this analysis, we will assess the effectiveness of water diplomacy and transboundary cooperation institutions. Are these approaches indeed the key to preventing future water wars, or do they face gaps and challenges that require attention? Moreover, how can the competition for this vital resource transform into an opportunity for enhanced cooperation, trade, and the forging of new alliances? In conclusion, we will present visionary perspectives and strategies for the peaceful and sustainable management of our precious water resources. Introduction to Water Diplomacy In a world where water is a critical and often contentious resource, understanding the dynamics of water diplomacy is essential. This presentation, "Introduction to Water Diplomacy," is structured around four key components: the What, the Why, the How, and the Challenges of water diplomacy. First, we will explore what water diplomacy entails, outlining its principles, key actors, and the frameworks that guide international water negotiations. Next, we will delve into why water diplomacy is crucial, examining the increasing pressures on global water resources due to population growth, climate change, and industrial demands, and highlighting the potential for both conflict and cooperation. Following this, we will investigate how water diplomacy is conducted in practice. This section will provide insights into negotiation strategies and tools, successful case studies, and the role of international organizations and treaties in facilitating dialogue and agreements. Finally, we will address the challenges of water diplomacy, identifying the obstacles that hinder effective cooperation, such as lack of political will, political instability, lack of reliable data and information, and differing national interests.
Mekong Basin Geopolitics: Navigating Water Conflicts, Cooperation, and Diplomacy
Explore the fascinating intricacies of the Mekong River Basin in Southeast Asia! Water plays a pivotal role in reshaping power dynamics and international relations in this crucial region. Immerse yourself in the cooperation challenges and geopolitical tensions shaping this area. Our journey begins by examining the fundamental issues related to water resource management, the environment, energy production, food security, and the complex relationships between China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. Discover how the Mekong basin emerges as a geopolitical chessboard, where Western influences face China's strategic interests. Explore the environmental challenges and geopolitical tensions arising from the construction of massive dams. Dive into the exciting narrative of the Mekong River Commission (MRC), led by the speaker from 2004 to 2007, and explore its history and functioning.
In a world where images of a drying planet stir fear and debate, our conference is dedicated to critically examining and reassessing the global water crisis. We aim to unravel its multifaceted aspects and identify practical solutions. By delving into issues of water scarcity, quality, overexploitation, and governance, we aim to provide a balanced view that cuts through alarmist headlines to reveal the facts. The conference will highlight innovative technologies, sustainable resource management strategies, and emphasize the need for increased investments. Recognizing the crucial role of international cooperation, we will explore how these collaborative efforts can prevent conflicts and influence global dynamics. Join us for an insightful exploration into securing this vital resource for our future. Towards Water Wars: Myth or Reality ?
In a global context where water is emerging as an increasingly geostrategic issue, this conference delves deep into the pressing question: Are water wars an imminent threat to our future, or are there more nuanced realities behind the alarmist rhetoric? We will address these questions by adopting a critical perspective, challenging common assumptions, and examining the facts. The conference will revisit historical water-related conflicts to draw lessons, while scrutinizing current and potential tensions, with a particular focus on underlying causes. At the heart of this analysis, we will assess the effectiveness of water diplomacy and transboundary cooperation institutions. Are these approaches indeed the key to preventing future water wars, or do they face gaps and challenges that require attention? Moreover, how can the competition for this vital resource transform into an opportunity for enhanced cooperation, trade, and the forging of new alliances? In conclusion, we will present visionary perspectives and strategies for the peaceful and sustainable management of our precious water resources. Introduction to Water Diplomacy In a world where water is a critical and often contentious resource, understanding the dynamics of water diplomacy is essential. This presentation, "Introduction to Water Diplomacy," is structured around four key components: the What, the Why, the How, and the Challenges of water diplomacy. First, we will explore what water diplomacy entails, outlining its principles, key actors, and the frameworks that guide international water negotiations. Next, we will delve into why water diplomacy is crucial, examining the increasing pressures on global water resources due to population growth, climate change, and industrial demands, and highlighting the potential for both conflict and cooperation. Following this, we will investigate how water diplomacy is conducted in practice. This section will provide insights into negotiation strategies and tools, successful case studies, and the role of international organizations and treaties in facilitating dialogue and agreements. Finally, we will address the challenges of water diplomacy, identifying the obstacles that hinder effective cooperation, such as lack of political will, political instability, lack of reliable data and information, and differing national interests.
Mekong Basin Geopolitics: Navigating Water Conflicts, Cooperation, and Diplomacy
Explore the fascinating intricacies of the Mekong River Basin in Southeast Asia! Water plays a pivotal role in reshaping power dynamics and international relations in this crucial region. Immerse yourself in the cooperation challenges and geopolitical tensions shaping this area. Our journey begins by examining the fundamental issues related to water resource management, the environment, energy production, food security, and the complex relationships between China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. Discover how the Mekong basin emerges as a geopolitical chessboard, where Western influences face China's strategic interests. Explore the environmental challenges and geopolitical tensions arising from the construction of massive dams. Dive into the exciting narrative of the Mekong River Commission (MRC), led by the speaker from 2004 to 2007, and explore its history and functioning.