We’re in the season just after Nowruz, the ancient Persian New Year celebrated in Iran and across much of Central and Western Asia — a holiday with over 3,000 years of tradition, symbolising renewal, rebirth and the arrival of spring. Yet this year, those themes of hope feel far removed from the reality facing Iran and its people.
In Iran and the wider Middle East, the ongoing war continues to drive global risk. After weeks of hostilities, the US and Iran agreed this week to a conditional two‑week ceasefire, dependent on the safe reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Even with this pause, tensions remain high, with military alerts and uncertainty about whether the ceasefire will hold.
Meanwhile, in Europe, an explosive device was discovered near a Russian-linked gas pipeline on the Serbia–Hungary border, just days ahead of Hungary’s national elections on 12 April. The incident has raised fresh concerns about energy security, regional stability and political influence.
The repercussions of these events are being felt worldwide — from volatile energy markets to rising inflation and debates over international cooperation. European allies continue to emphasise diplomacy while weighing their roles in these unfolding crises.
To discuss these and other pressing developments — from geopolitical tensions and energy security to political stability and economic risk — we invite you to join Global Risk Forum 427 & 428. Share your insights, hear diverse perspectives and be part of the global conversation.
- Global Risk Forum 427
- Thursday, 9th April at 17:00 BST / 12:00 EDT
- REGISTRATION >>
- Global Risk Forum 428
- Friday, 10th April at 10:00 BST
- REGISTRATION >>