Oligarchy, authoritarianism, populism, and polarization aren’t just words in the news; they mean something concrete in our efforts to shape policies that enable children and their families to flourish. On May 21, 2025 we gathered for a discussion of what these words mean, how they impact our families, and how we can move forward in the midst of the uncertainty they create. The conversation was led by Joe Waters, founder of Capita – an independent think tank working with global partners to craft effective policies for a future in which families and their communities can flourish – and, May Ajram, World Forum Global Leader and board member of the World Forum Foundation.
