IRC’s David Miliband: How leaders can meet the moment in an increasingly disordered world

Recent years have brought a host of challenges, from widening economic gaps and climate chaos, to geopolitical instability. David Miliband is the president and chief executive officer of the International Rescue Committee, a global humanitarian organization founded by Albert Einstein in the 1930s to give aid to people whose lives are upended by war, conflict and disaster. He talked to Meet the Leader about a trend he’s tracked for years - the age of impunity – one where leaders seem less accountable to the power they yield. He shares how this has taken shape in conflict zones, democracies and economies, and its surprising impacts to people on the ground. He also shares the challenge he sees for leaders of all stripes in the near future, giving practical advice on how leaders can stay accountable to the big picture, craft strategies and cultures that complement their missions, and better meet the moment in an increasingly disordered world.

This interview was recorded October 2025 in the World Economic Forum New York Office.

About this episode:
International Rescue Committee: https://help.rescue.org/

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