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Keynote Speaker
Olivier Cogels
Keynote speaker and trainer in water geopolitics and diplomacy
Popular talks
- Our Thirsty Planet: Is Humanity Really Running Out of Water?
- The Blue Gold Rush: Defusing Water Wars
- The Global Water Crisis: Challenges and Solutions
- Water Geopolitics and Diplomacy in the Mekong Basin: Between Conflicts and Cooperation
Talks
Popular talks by Olivier Cogels
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Our Thirsty Planet: Is Humanity Really Running Out of Water?
In a world where the image of a dried-up planet fuels fears and debates, this conference invites critical reflection on common perceptions about the global water crisis. Are we inevitably heading towards a widespread water shortage, or are there nuances and lesser-known aspects that we need to explore? We will…
In a world where the image of a dried-up planet fuels fears and debates, this conference invites critical reflection on common perceptions about the global water crisis. Are we inevitably heading towards a widespread water shortage, or are there nuances and lesser-known aspects that we need to explore? We will examine the facts behind the alarmist headlines and demystify some myths surrounding the future of water. Our goal is to provide a more complete and balanced understanding of the current situation of water availability on our planet. Join us for an enlightened discussion that goes beyond simplistic claims, exploring the real challenges, possible solutions, and adaptation strategies humanity can adopt in response to our changing water environment.
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The Blue Gold Rush: Defusing Water Wars
In a global context where water is becoming an increasingly strategic issue, this conference delves deep into the burning question: Are water wars really an imminent threat to our future? What realities lie behind the alarmist rhetoric? We will address these questions by adopting a critical perspective, questioning common assumptions,…
In a global context where water is becoming an increasingly strategic issue, this conference delves deep into the burning question: Are water wars really an imminent threat to our future? What realities lie behind the alarmist rhetoric? We will address these questions by adopting a critical perspective, questioning common assumptions, and examining the facts. The conference will revisit historical water-related conflicts to draw lessons, while scrutinizing current and future tensions, with a particular focus on underlying causes. At the heart of this analysis, we will evaluate the effectiveness of water diplomacy and transboundary cooperation institutions. Are these approaches truly the key to preventing future water wars, or are there gaps and challenges that need to be addressed? In conclusion, we will present visionary perspectives and strategies for peaceful and sustainable management of our precious water resources.
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The Global Water Crisis: Challenges and Solutions
Dive into the complexity of global water issues from a comprehensive and integrated perspective. In the first part, we will address global water needs and question our planet’s capacity to meet the growing demand for this essential resource. The second part will focus on crucial water-related challenges. Beyond shortages, we…
Dive into the complexity of global water issues from a comprehensive and integrated perspective. In the first part, we will address global water needs and question our planet’s capacity to meet the growing demand for this essential resource. The second part will focus on crucial water-related challenges. Beyond shortages, we will discuss issues related to water quality, overexploitation of water resources, access to drinking water, as well as governance and sustainable management challenges. We will also shed light on how the risks of natural disasters such as floods and droughts are evolving. In the third and final part, we will explore the range of existing solutions to address these complex challenges. This exploration will include an analysis of water infrastructure, innovative technologies, and strategies for integrated and sustainable resource management. We will also discuss the crucial importance of international cooperation in preventing conflicts and resolving the global water crisis.
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Water Geopolitics and Diplomacy in the Mekong Basin: Between Conflicts and Cooperation
Explore the fascinating intricacies of the Mekong Basin in Southeast Asia! Immerse yourself in the cooperation challenges and geopolitical tensions shaping this crucial region. Our journey begins by examining the fundamental issues related to water resource management, the environment, energy production, food security, and the complex relationships between China, Vietnam,…
Explore the fascinating intricacies of the Mekong Basin in Southeast Asia! Immerse yourself in the cooperation challenges and geopolitical tensions shaping this crucial region. Our journey begins by examining the fundamental issues related to water resource management, the environment, energy production, food security, and the complex relationships between China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. Discover the current and future water resources of the Mekong, and the growing impact of irrigation needs, hydroelectric energy, and navigation. Explore the environmental challenges and geopolitical tensions arising from the construction of massive dams. Dive into the exciting narrative of the Mekong River Commission (MRC), led by the speaker from 2004 to 2007, and explore its history and functioning.
Biography
About Olivier Cogels
Olivier Cogels is an internationally recognized Belgian expert in water geopolitics and diplomacy. His insightful lectures address critical global issues such as “Will humanity face a water shortage?”, “Are water wars imminent?”, and “How can we prevent them?”
His long commitment to addressing global water issues has involved collaborations with a wide range of stakeholders, from nomadic villages in the Sahel to governments, diplomats, and major international organizations.
He holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences from UCLouvain, Belgium, and conducted postdoctoral research in irrigation science at the University of California. His expertise, developed in over fifty countries, is supplemented by his role as a part-time academic, teaching at various universities in Europe and Africa, and serving as an Emeritus Professor at UCLouvain.
His career began in academia and teaching before founding a company specializing in satellite remote sensing. He then led the Belgian international cooperation in Senegal. As a Director at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Rome, he headed a program on innovative irrigation technologies. In Southeast Asia, as CEO of the Mekong River Commission, he played a crucial role in enhancing water cooperation between China and Mekong basin countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.
Recognized for his expertise in water geopolitics and diplomacy, Cogels has continued his career as a senior consultant for major international organizations. His advisory roles include shaping the World Bank’s hydraulic development strategy in the Nile basin and providing expertise to the European Commission, various UN agencies, and multiple bilateral cooperation entities.
In addressing global hydro-climatic challenges, Cogels rejects a catastrophic and fatalistic view. He strongly believes that through multi-sectoral cooperation, coordinated investments, innovative solutions, and more effective governance, these challenges can be met. This belief is a central theme in his lectures.
Cogels’ exceptional journey, along with his steadfast dedication to water-related causes for nearly half a century, has established him as a passionate and inspiring speaker. He is eager to inform and motivate those interested in responsible and equitable water resource management on our planet.
Testimonials
What clients say about Olivier Cogels
"His ability to communicate with clarity and passion immediately captured the interest of all participants. During the question-and-answer sessions that followed his presentation, Olivier Cogels confirmed his expertise by responding in-depth and relevance to the audience's inquiries. His unquestionable mastery of the subject, exceptional pedagogical skills, and talent for engaging the audience make him a discerning choice for any event related to geopolitics and water diplomacy. Olivier Cogels' contribution significantly enriched our webinar, and I am convinced he will bring substantial added value to other future events. Congratulations, Olivier, for delivering a memorable and enriching presentation that undeniably played a key role in the success of our hydrology webinar in Africa. Your participation left a lasting impression on all the participants."
"Many, many thanks for your great contribution! These two hours were totally inspiring."
How to book Olivier Cogels
Answers on fees, availability and booking process.
How do I book Olivier Cogels for a keynote speech?
You can book Olivier Cogels through London Speaker Bureau by submitting the enquiry form on this page or calling our team. One of our consultants will respond promptly with Olivier's current availability, speaking fees and any specific requirements for your event.
What are Olivier Cogels's speaking fees?
Olivier Cogels's speaking fees depend on the event format (in-person or virtual), the location, the length of the engagement and the level of customisation required. Please contact London Speaker Bureau for an up-to-date fee quote for Olivier tailored to your event.
What topics does Olivier Cogels speak about?
Olivier Cogels speaks on Agriculture, Climate, Sustainability. Talks can be shaped around your audience, industry and strategic objectives - share your event brief with London Speaker Bureau and we will work with Olivier to align the content with your delegates and goals.
Is Olivier Cogels available for international events?
London Speaker Bureau can book Olivier Cogels for events worldwide, subject to Olivier's schedule. Please send us your event date, location and format and we will confirm availability and handle travel and logistics on your behalf.
Does Olivier Cogels deliver virtual or online keynotes?
Virtual and hybrid keynotes are now a standard part of the speaking industry. Please contact London Speaker Bureau to confirm whether Olivier Cogels is available to deliver a virtual session for your event and on which platform (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, a bespoke studio or your own).
How long is a typical keynote by Olivier Cogels?
Most keynote speeches run between 45 and 60 minutes, often followed by a 15-30 minute Q&A. Other formats - shorter conference slots, panel appearances or longer workshop sessions - may also be possible. Share your agenda with London Speaker Bureau and we will confirm what Olivier can accommodate.
Can Olivier Cogels tailor the keynote to our industry and audience?
London Speaker Bureau will brief Olivier Cogels on your audience profile, sector and objectives so the keynote can be shaped around your event. The level of customisation possible depends on the speaker and the lead time - contact us with your brief and we will confirm what Olivier can offer.
What languages does Olivier Cogels present in?
Olivier Cogels delivers keynotes in English, French. This profile may not list every language available; ask London Speaker Bureau to confirm. If you require simultaneous interpretation or a multilingual format, please mention this in your enquiry and London Speaker Bureau will arrange it for you.
What makes Olivier Cogels a strong fit as a keynote speaker?
Olivier Cogels's areas of expertise include Agriculture, Climate, Sustainability. To get a clear sense of Olivier's style, credentials and how they engage an audience, please review the biography, popular talks and any videos or testimonials shown on this page, or request a detailed speaker brief from London Speaker Bureau.
What kind of events can Olivier Cogels speak at?
Olivier Cogels can be booked through London Speaker Bureau for corporate conferences, leadership events, internal team meetings, association gatherings and private client engagements where expertise in Agriculture, Climate, Sustainability is relevant. Details of Olivier's background and previous engagements are included in the biography above; contact us if you would like a more detailed list of past clients or case studies.
Does Olivier Cogels offer workshops, panels or fireside chats in addition to keynotes?
Beyond keynote speeches, many of the speakers on our roster also take part in workshops, executive masterclasses, panel discussions and fireside chats. Contact London Speaker Bureau with your preferred format and we will confirm what Olivier Cogels is able to offer alongside or instead of a keynote.
How far in advance should we book Olivier Cogels?
We generally recommend enquiring at least three to twelve months in advance to secure your preferred date with Olivier Cogels, particularly during peak conference seasons. Where possible we also accommodate shorter lead times - please contact London Speaker Bureau to check Olivier's current availability for your dates.
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Duncan Goose Duncan Goose - Founder of 'One' Water and the non-for-profit organisation Global Ethics. Keynote Business Speaker -
Simon Devonshire Entrepreneur, Investor, Non-Executive Director, Chair
