We live in a world of what seems like unprecedented growth, development and change. Advances in political and social movements, technology, health care, environmental sustainability held the promise of a rich future as humanity seemed to become increasingly connected, integrated and sharing a common vision of the future. Yet the beginning of the century seems to indicate the reverse is actually taking place; high-profile terrorist attacks, the rise of nationalism, global epidemics and pandemics, climate change, cyber crime, mistrust and surveillance now dominate current life. We aim to analyse the causes and effects of global transformations and to identify ways to influence and adjust to the new course that is yet to be determined.