I am happy to share that I participated in the Machiavelli 500 Project Launch Workshop, held on 20–21 March 2026 in Florence. The event marked the start of a year-long international programme commemorating the 500th anniversary of the death of Niccolò Machiavelli, whose work continues to influence contemporary thinking on leadership, statecraft, and organisational governance.
The workshop brought together scholars, policymakers, diplomats, and business leaders to reflect on Machiavelli’s lasting relevance, with particular attention to his insights on adaptability, strategic thinking, and the responsibilities of leadership. We explored how these ideas remain applicable not only in political contexts but also in modern business, diplomacy, and public service.
As a contributor to the book Machiavelli, Marketing and Management Revisited, edited by Phil Harris, Andrew Lock, and Patricia Rees, I joined discussions on leadership in times of uncertainty. I highlighted parallels between Machiavelli’s pragmatic approach and the challenges confronting institutions today, emphasising the importance of ethical judgement, resilience, and the capacity to respond effectively to rapidly evolving global dynamics—qualities Machiavelli considered essential for those in positions of responsibility.
During my interventions, I observed that effective leadership depends on a balance between strong values and openness to innovation. This balance, I noted, reflects Machiavelli’s teaching that leaders must bring together diverse talents while adapting to real-world conditions with clarity, courage, and integrity. These lessons remain highly relevant to diplomatic practice, where building cooperation and appreciating different cultural perspectives are key to achieving shared objectives.
The Machiavelli 500 initiative seeks to strengthen international engagement with Machiavelli’s legacy through academic programmes, cultural activities, and policy discussions throughout 2026. I am pleased to support this initiative and to contribute to the exchange of ideas inspired by one of history’s most influential thinkers.
I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the organisers, with special thanks to Prof. Phil Harris, co-organisers Arco Timmermans and Patricia Nicholls, and all participants. I look forward to continued collaboration over the course of this commemorative year.