Collective Dawn: Fusing Readiness and Optimism for Youth in Society
Written by Mr Abhishek VATS (India)
The 5th ASEF Young Leaders Summit (ASEFYLS5) took place from August to December 2023. It focused on the theme of ‘Leadership & Society 5.0’ and incorporates 3 spheres for youth leadership: 1) self-leadership (you), 2) team leadership (we) and 3) societal leadership (all). The 5th edition was a hybrid project with collaborative elements taking place online and in Salamanca, Spain.
The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) organised the 5th edition of their ASEF Young Leaders Summit (hereinafter ASEFYLS5). The ASEF Young Leaders Summit (ASEFYLS) is a Youth platform that connects young people with the Decision-Makers and Leaders from Asian & European countries. It focuses on the theme of ‘Leadership & Society 5.0’. The 5th edition was a hybrid project with collaborative elements taking place online and in Salamanca, Spain.
My Personal Experience as an ASEFYLS5 Delegate:
I had been following ASEF’s programmes since my penultimate year of law school and when I finally had the opportunity to attend one, I was very excited. This dynamic platform seamlessly connected youthful minds with influential decision-makers and leaders from both Asian and European nations, centring its discussions on the theme of ‘Leadership & Society 5.0.’ This unique summit unfolded as a hybrid endeavour, blending online collaboration with on-site activities in the vibrant locale of Salamanca, Spain.
Reflecting on my personal journey as a delegate immersed in the four-month programme, the emphasis was consistently focused on leveraging our privileged positions to support those less fortunate. The programme fostered inclusivity, championed shared spaces, encouraged respect for individual values, and ignited collaborative brainstorming for impactful solutions. As both a delegate and a panellist representing the voices of Asian youth on the summit’s second day, I experienced a forum teeming with exciting surprises, team-building initiatives, and networking prospects. Our virtual collaboration spanned various team-building exercises, coupled with comprehensive training addressing contemporary issues entrenched in Society 5.0.
While the Summit in Salamanca stood out as a cherished highlight, it is crucial to underscore the overarching mission of ASEFYLS5. The emphasis on three key spheres of youth leadership — self-leadership (you), team leadership (we), and societal leadership (all) — was particularly noteworthy. Meeting a diverse array of young, motivated individuals, each humble, talented, and actively pursuing their missions, was a profound experience. Amid the challenges of online learning, engaging virtually with peers in leadership sessions by Mr Anand CHANDRASEKAR from the Center for Creative Leadership proved both enjoyable and enlightening, offering ample space for introspection, personal growth, and virtual team-building activities.
Throughout my journey as a youth leader, I gleaned valuable lessons, with a primary focus on the pivotal role of effective communication and the reciprocal exchange of constructive feedback. It became evident that leaders, often ensconced in their knowledge, must also recognise the perpetual potential for personal growth. True leadership, I realised, extends beyond a stance of “knowing the best” to an acknowledgment that our growth persists as long as we remain open to change and personal development.
As a young leader, this experience reinforced my belief in the transformative power of informed and ethical leadership within Society 5.0. It became clear that our generation holds the responsibility to harness the potential of technological advancements for the greater good, ensuring that no one is left behind in the process. Society 5.0, with its emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and human well-being, aligns seamlessly with the ethos of youth leadership advocated by ASEFYLS5 — a commitment to shaping a future where technology serves humanity rather than dictates its course. In embracing this responsibility, I feel empowered as a young leader to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing evolution of Society 5.0, recognising it not only as a challenge but as an unprecedented opportunity for positive change. Keeping this in mind, I’ve also summarised some key challenges which I have outlined through my personal experience as a young leader as well as my experience at the ASEFYLS5 programme.
What Challenges Lie Ahead in Society 5.0?
1. Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Challenges in Society 5.0
The ethical quandaries posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in Society 5.0 carry profound societal ramifications. The swift progression of AI, bereft of well-defined ethical standards, introduces the peril of perpetuating biased decision-making, thereby reinforcing existing societal disparities. A tangible illustration lies in AI algorithms applied in recruitment processes, potentially entrenching gender or racial biases. The absence of robust safeguards places society at risk of escalating inequalities, impacting opportunities, and perpetuating systemic discrimination.
2. Deepfakes: Erosion of Truth in Society 5.0
The ascent of deepfakes constitutes a formidable threat to the bedrock of truth and trust within Society 5.0. Malicious use of deepfakes to propagate false narratives holds the potential to foment misinformation-driven public panic or instil distrust in societal institutions. For instance, a deepfake video featuring a political figure making incendiary statements could sow seeds of social unrest. The ubiquitous presence of deepfakes has the potential to undermine the very essence of truth, fostering a society where differentiation between authentic and manipulated information becomes an increasingly formidable task.
3. Misinformation: Democratic Undermining in Society 5.0
The propagation of misinformation within the digital sphere poses a critical hazard to democratic ideals within Society 5.0. False narratives possess the ability to manipulate public sentiment, exerting influence over electoral outcomes and policy determinations. An illustrative scenario may involve the dissemination of inaccurate information regarding political candidates during an election, swaying public opinion and compromising the integrity of the democratic process. In the absence of effective countermeasures, the unbridled dissemination of misinformation threatens to cultivate a societal environment where confidence in institutions wanes, thereby compromising the very underpinnings of democratic governance.
4. Democracy: Digital Vulnerabilities in Society 5.0
Digital vulnerabilities within democratic processes in Society 5.0 carry profound consequences for societal stability. Cyberattacks on electoral systems, for example, may compromise the sanctity of election results, casting doubt on the legitimacy of elected officials. The erosion of public trust in democratic institutions, spurred by digital interference, has the potential to precipitate social unrest and a breakdown of civic cohesiveness. In extreme instances, digital vulnerabilities may enable external entities to manipulate political outcomes, fundamentally challenging the core tenets of democratic governance in Society 5.0.
The Way Forward:
1. Embrace Technological Literacy: Ethical Custodians of the Digital Landscape
Technological literacy is not just a skill — it is the armour of youth in the digital age. Youth must delve into the intricacies of artificial intelligence, understanding the algorithms that shape our digital experiences. Beyond proficiency, they must become ethical custodians of technology, advocating for transparency and accountability in AI development.
The challenge goes beyond understanding code — it involves influencing its ethical implications. Engaging in ethical debates surrounding AI, participating in policy-making forums, and collaborating with ethical AI initiatives position youth as stewards of a technological landscape aligned with collective values.
2. Advocate for Information Integrity: Guardians Against Misinformation
As guardians against misinformation, youth must amplify the importance of information integrity. Advocacy efforts should focus on promoting media literacy at both institutional and grassroots levels. Collaborative partnerships between educational institutions, media organisations, and technology platforms can facilitate the dissemination of accurate information and equip individuals with skills to critically evaluate content.
The challenge extends to advocating for policies that hold purveyors of misinformation accountable. Youth-led initiatives can bring attention to the consequences of spreading false information and work towards establishing legal frameworks that deter the creation and dissemination of misinformation.
3. Cultivate Critical Thinking: Nurturing Discernment in the Digital Era
Critical thinking is the beacon guiding youth through the deepfake storm. The challenge is to actively cultivate critical thinking skills, encouraging a questioning mindset and an ability to discern between authentic and manipulated content. Educational institutions should prioritise critical thinking in their curricula, fostering an environment that values intellectual curiosity and scepticism.
The challenge is not only to identify deepfakes but also to educate others on recognising the signs of synthetic media. Youth-led awareness campaigns, workshops, and online resources can contribute to building a society that approaches information with a discerning eye.
4. Collaborate for Democratic Resilience: Unity Against Manipulation
The challenge of safeguarding democracy in the digital age requires a united front. Youth must collaborate across sectors — government, civil society, technology, and academia — to fortify the resilience of democratic institutions. Participating in discussions on digital policy, engaging with cybersecurity experts, and advocating for the implementation of secure digital infrastructure are crucial components of this collaborative effort. Youth-led civic engagement initiatives, such as voter education campaigns and digital literacy workshops, contribute to building an informed and active citizenry. By uniting in the pursuit of democratic resilience, youth can shape a future where the digital era enhances the principles of democracy rather than jeopardises them.
Conclusion:
As the world propels itself into the heart of Society 5.0, youth stand as torchbearers faced with both the promise and challenge of an interconnected digital world. By confronting the complexities of AI, deepfakes, misinformation, and democracy with resilience, vigilance, and collaborative spirit, youth can shape a future that embodies the values of ethical innovation, information integrity, and democratic resilience. The stage is set, and the youth are not mere spectators but active participants in the grand narrative of our digital evolution. The manifesto is clear: navigate the nexus, comprehend the challenges, and emerge as architects of a Society 5.0 that reflects the aspirations of a united and empowered youth.
Abhishek VATS (India) is an advocate at bar, practising in Delhi, India. He is a judicial aspirant and is preparing for Judicial services exams in India. Abhishek one of the Managing Directors of ASEAN Youth Organization (AYO) and is the Co-founder of AYO Recent, an international research centre which studies and demystifies Human rights, Environment and Economy from the lens of the youth. Through AYO Recent, Abhishek has mentored over 60 researchers, and has led and advised various research projects. He is passionate about legal literacy, inclusivity, responsible governance and accountable and reliable news/media reporting.
NOTE:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely by the author(s) and do not represent that of the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF).
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