Plenary 1: Unleashing Human Potential for the Common Good

“The Lord will grant you abundant prosperity” (Deuteronomy 28:11–12) “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills.” Quran 2.261 The juxtaposition of abundant riches and stunning progress in human welfare, alongside stubborn poverty and suffering, is a core challenge for faith teachers and those who practice religion. The 2026 G20 agenda traces paths towards prosperity through unleashing creative and entrepreneurial energy. Faith communities savor action to enhance the quality of lives, confident that prosperity can and must serve the Common Good, sharing balance and equity as core objectives. The shared concern across religious traditions for “those left behind,” a continuing IF20 imperative, demands that economic policies focus sharply on causes of inequality that range from broad socio-political systems to life realities in communities and families. Faith, wisdom and experience contribute to G20 action agendas both to unleash potential for human flourishing and to assure that safety nets work for the benefit of all. How can the G20 and faith communities act to ensure support for entrepreneurship, effective measures to address unsustainable debt burdens, and needed social protection. Welcome Addresses President W. Cole Durham & Vice President Katherine Marshall Moderator: Timothy Stratford – Senior Counsel, Covington & Burling LLP Keynote Address: Ambassador Jamieson Greer – United States Trade Representative Speakers: Dr. Kim Tan – Co-Founder, Transformational Business Network Alliance Dr. Vinya Ariyaratne – President, Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement Mr. Eric LeCompte – Executive Director, Jubilee USA Network Mr. Kevin Hyland OBE – CEO, SMI Ms. Anne Simmons-Benton – Chair, Women20 USA