At the end of 2019 we bade farewell to an entire decade. Now, in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, we may well have said goodbye to the world and society as we knew it. What is the new normal that we will face when the outbreak is over?  

What new society and world do we want to see after the pandemic? Are we willing to go back to a world characterized by greed, conflict, inequality and environmental degradation? Or can we use our creativity and determination to contribute to creating a more humane society? What is our role as individuals, and as a movement of changemakers, in shaping our new normal?  

Our movement, which has seen the passing of many decades, is beginning a new chapter as we seek to adapt to changing circumstances. We are finding innovative ways to inspire, equip and connect changemakers in the pursuit of a just, peaceful and sustainable world to which everyone, responding to the call of conscience, can make their unique contribution. 

As we reflect on what 2019 gave us and on the magnitude of the challenge of rebuilding our lives and communities, we are proud of the resilience of our global network. The rise in populism, divisiveness, and mistrust in systems has created a darkness in our society. Now, more than ever we need to turn our light outward and show examples of how trust can bridge all that divides us.