German Institute for Global and Area Studies | Leibniz-Institut für Globale und Regionale Studien

GIGA Forum

The GIGA Forum is an opportunity for experts to discuss current political, social, and economic matters. They present their latest research findings on developments in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, highlighting all the key details – often from a global perspective. The general public is also invited to engage in the discourse.

GIGA Forum ONLINE | 29/10/2025

From Reform to Reality: Germany’s Cannabis Policy in International Perspective

One year after Germany’s significant – and controversial – cannabis reform, leading experts draw on experiences of marijuana legalisation elsewhere to discuss the intended and unintended outcomes, the opportunities for improvement, and the uncertain outlook for the country’s new cannabis policy.

GIGA Forum ONLINE | 09/07/2025

BRICS in Action: A Deep Dive into the Outcomes of the 2025 Summit

This GIGA Forum brings together four experts to dissect the highlights and outcomes of the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil. With perspectives spanning longstanding and newer BRICS members, the panel explores in depth the group’s evolving role in addressing global challenges.

GIGA Forum | 30/06/2025

Hamburg–Dar es Salaam’s Twinning at Fifteen: Prospects for Cooperation with a Confident Global South

In summer 2025, the city-twinning of Hamburg and Dar es Salaam will celebrate its 15-year anniversary. What opportunities can such a partnership offer for North–South cooperation in the context of changing geopolitical power relations?

GIGA Forum | 03/06/2025

Sustainable Trade in Global Supply Chains: Dilemmas and Solutions

How can we balance economic development opportunities with fair labour conditions and environmental responsibility in global supply chains? Join us and our international guests on the occasion of the Hamburg Sustainability Conference to explore the key dilemmas and solutions for more sustainable trade.

GIGA Forum | 09/04/2025

Neue deutsche Regierung: Außenpolitik im Globalen Süden

Germany is facing important foreign policy decisions: How can the new government best interact with the Global South between democratic crisis, power competition, and ongoing economic interests? In this GIGA Forum, experts analyse challenges, opportunities, and possible strategies here.