Sherpa Track
BACKGROUND GUIDE
LPS G20 MODEL | Sherpa Track Agenda: Redefining Prosperity – Integrating Culture, Education, and Employment for a Future Beyond Growth
WELCOME NOTE FROM THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
Dear Delegates,
It is with great enthusiasm that we welcome you to the Sherpa Track of the LPS G20 Model, where we will engage in critical discussions on redefining prosperity for a sustainable and inclusive future.
The world is at a pivotal juncture, where traditional measures of growth—such as GDP—are being challenged by broader socio-economic and cultural considerations. As future leaders and policymakers, you will navigate through the complexities of integrating culture, education, and employment into a new vision of prosperity that extends beyond mere economic expansion.
We urge you to delve into global case studies, policy frameworks, and national initiatives to propose innovative solutions that align with sustainable development. Your role in this committee is not only to debate but to collaborate, negotiate, and build comprehensive policies that will shape the global discourse on economic and social transformation.
We look forward to dynamic discussions and insightful resolutions that will contribute to a progressive redefinition of prosperity.
Best Regards,
Executive Board Members
INTRODUCTION
For decades, economic growth has been synonymous with prosperity. However, as income inequality, environmental degradation, cultural erosion, and automation-driven unemployment rise, the world must reconsider what "prosperity" truly means.
The Sherpa Track of the G20 plays a crucial role in addressing long-term global policy issues. This year’s agenda, "Redefining Prosperity – Integrating Culture, Education, and Employment for a Future Beyond Growth," emphasizes the non-economic dimensions of progress and explores policies that can foster a holistic, inclusive, and resilient future.
The focus areas of this discussion include:
Cultural Preservation and Innovation: Ensuring that economic development does not come at the cost of cultural identity.
Education for the Future: Adapting learning systems to technological advancements and evolving job markets.
Employment and Workforce Adaptability: Addressing challenges like automation, skill gaps, and fair labor practices.
Through this debate, delegates must propose concrete frameworks, national strategies, and global cooperation mechanisms that balance economic progress with social and cultural well-being.
KEY DISCUSSION AREAS
Cultural Integration in Economic Growth
Introduction
Economic growth and cultural integration are deeply intertwined. While globalization and modernization bring economic opportunities, they also pose challenges to cultural preservation. Societies must find a way to embrace progress without eroding their cultural heritage, striking a balance that fosters sustainable development. Culture-driven economic models, such as creative industries and heritage tourism, offer pathways to prosperity while maintaining cultural identity.
Key Questions for Delegates:
How can nations balance cultural preservation with the pressures of globalization and modernization?
In what ways can cultural industries contribute to long-term economic sustainability?
How can policies ensure that economic growth does not come at the cost of cultural erosion?
Case Studies:
Case Study 1: South Korea’s Cultural Economy South Korea has successfully leveraged its cultural heritage to fuel economic growth. The Korean Wave (Hallyu), encompassing K-pop, K-dramas, and traditional crafts, has significantly boosted the economy. With government-backed policies promoting cultural exports, the country has created jobs and strengthened its global influence while preserving its identity.
Case Study 2: Bhutan’s Approach to Economic Development
Bhutan prioritizes Gross National Happiness (GNH) over GDP, ensuring that economic policies align with cultural and spiritual values. Through sustainable tourism and strict cultural preservation laws, Bhutan has maintained its traditions while fostering economic stability, setting an example for other nations seeking balanced growth.
G20 Perspective:
The G20 nations, representing major economies, acknowledge the importance of cultural integration in economic policies. While prioritizing economic growth, they also recognize the need for cultural sustainability. Collaborative frameworks, such as the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and international heritage conservation efforts, illustrate how global cooperation can support both economic development and cultural preservation. G20 discussions must focus on policy frameworks that promote inclusive growth without compromising cultural identities, ensuring a globally competitive yet culturally rich economic landscape.
Redefining Education Systems for Future Employment
Introduction
The rapidly evolving job market demands a fundamental transformation in global education systems. Traditional academic structures, often focused on rote learning and standardized assessments, fail to equip students with the practical and adaptive skills required in a dynamic workforce. To ensure long-term employability, education must prioritize vocational training, digital literacy, and industry-relevant competencies that foster innovation and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, addressing socio-economic disparities in education is crucial to creating an equitable and inclusive learning environment that empowers individuals across all demographics.
Key Questions for Delegates:
How can vocational training be integrated into mainstream education to ensure employability?
What measures can be taken to address socio-economic disparities in access to quality education?
How should education systems adapt to meet the demands of a tech-driven workforce?
Case Studies:
Case Study 1: Germany’s Dual Education System
Germany’s dual education model effectively integrates classroom learning with hands-on industry experience, ensuring students acquire practical, job-ready skills. This structured vocational training system has contributed to low youth unemployment rates and a highly skilled labor market. By collaborating with industries, businesses, and educational institutions, Germany has created a sustainable framework for bridging the skills gap. Other nations can adapt this model to enhance workforce readiness and economic stability.
Case Study 2: India’s Digital Literacy Mission
The Indian government launched the Digital India initiative to enhance digital literacy, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This program provides individuals with essential computer and internet skills, improving their employability in the digital economy. By bridging the urban-rural education divide, the initiative empowers youth with technological competencies, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Increased investments in digital education infrastructure can further strengthen workforce preparedness in the modern economy.
G20 Perspective
As global economic leaders, G20 nations recognize education as a key driver of workforce readiness and economic resilience. The shift towards automation, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies requires continuous learning, digital upskilling, and vocational training to close the skills gap. G20 discussions emphasize inclusive education policies that prioritize access to quality learning resources, technological integration, and skill development programs. By fostering international collaboration, G20 nations can shape sustainable education reforms that align with the evolving demands of the global job market and ensure long-term economic growth.
The Future of Work in an Automated Economy
Introduction
Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping labor markets, creating both opportunities and challenges. While automation boosts efficiency, it also displaces jobs, necessitating robust policies for workforce adaptation through upskilling and reskilling initiatives.
Key Questions for Delegates:
What policies can mitigate job losses due to automation?
How can governments and corporations collaborate to upskill workers?
What new employment opportunities can arise from technological advancements?
Case Studies:
Case Study 1: Japan’s Robotics RevolutionJapan has embraced automation in industries like manufacturing and healthcare. By investing in robotics education and worker retraining, Japan ensures that automation complements, rather than replaces, human labor.
Case Study 2: Reskilling Initiatives in DenmarkDenmark proactively addresses automation-induced job losses through government-funded reskilling programs. These initiatives help displaced workers transition into new roles, maintaining economic stability.
G20 Perspective:
G20 nations recognize the need for coordinated policies on automation’s impact. Discussions focus on reskilling programs, social safety nets, and incentives for businesses to adopt worker-friendly automation strategies.
Measuring Prosperity Beyond GDP
Introduction
Traditional economic metrics like GDP fail to capture overall well-being. Alternative indicators such as the Human Development Index (HDI), Gross National Happiness (GNH), and Social Progress Index (SPI) provide a more holistic view of societal prosperity.
Key Questions for Delegates:
What alternative metrics best capture economic and social well-being?
How can governments integrate sustainability and social equity into economic policies?
What role do green jobs and well-being initiatives play in shaping the economy?
Case Studies:
Case Study 1: New Zealand’s Well-being Budget
New Zealand introduced a national budget focused on well-being rather than GDP growth. This approach prioritizes mental health, child welfare, and environmental sustainability.
Case Study 2: Costa Rica’s Green Economy
Costa Rica has invested in renewable energy and conservation efforts, demonstrating that economic success can align with environmental sustainability.
G20 Perspective:
The G20 is increasingly incorporating sustainability into economic discussions. Policies that promote green jobs, equitable growth, and well-being metrics are gaining traction in international economic frameworks.
Global Cooperation & Policy Frameworks
Introduction
Achieving sustainable economic growth requires international cooperation. However, balancing economic competitiveness with progressive policies remains a challenge. The role of global institutions in fostering equitable prosperity is crucial.
Key Questions for Delegates:
How can G20 nations collaborate without undermining economic competitiveness?
What global policy frameworks ensure inclusive and sustainable prosperity?
How can international organizations support equitable economic growth?
Case Studies:
Case Study 1: The Paris Agreement and Green Economic Policies
The Paris Agreement has driven nations toward sustainable economic policies, demonstrating the effectiveness of global cooperation in addressing climate and economic challenges.
Case Study 2: European Union’s Economic Integration
The EU has implemented policies promoting free trade, labor mobility, and economic collaboration, fostering collective prosperity while maintaining national sovereignty.
G20 Perspective:
G20 nations play a crucial role in shaping international economic policies. By aligning efforts on taxation, sustainability, and financial regulations, they can drive global economic stability while ensuring inclusive growth.
CURRENT POSITION OF THE WORLD DOMAIN
The global economic landscape is undergoing a fundamental shift as nations struggle to balance technological advancements, sustainability, and human well-being. The following are key trends shaping this transition:
1. Economic Growth vs. Well-being
While GDP remains the dominant measure of success, nations like New Zealand, Bhutan, and Finland are adopting well-being-based economic models that prioritize social equity, environmental sustainability, and mental health over financial growth.
The Wellbeing Economy Alliance (WEGo) promotes policies beyond GDP.
Bhutan’s GNH and New Zealand’s Wellbeing Budget emphasize quality of life.
Challenges: Traditional economic models remain ingrained, and balancing well-being policies with economic competitiveness is complex.
2. Employment & Automation
AI and automation are set to displace 85 million jobs by 2025, but 97 million new jobs will emerge in tech, renewables, and healthcare.
Countries like Germany and Sweden are investing in reskilling initiatives.
Universal Basic Income (UBI) is being tested to support displaced workers.
Challenges: Widening inequality, job displacement in low-skilled sectors, and ethical concerns around AI adoption.
3. Cultural Erosion & Globalization
Globalization has led to Western dominance over indigenous cultures, sparking movements to restore cultural autonomy and decolonize education.
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Initiative protects endangered traditions.
India, China, and Latin America are pushing back against cultural imperialism.
Challenges: Balancing modernization with cultural preservation and securing funding for cultural initiatives.
4. Education Reform & Workforce Readiness
Many education systems fail to prepare students for future job markets.
Germany’s Dual Education System and Singapore’s SkillsFuture emphasize vocational and lifelong learning.
The STEAM movement prioritizes problem-solving and interdisciplinary skills.
Challenges: Resistance from traditional institutions, unequal access to quality education, and financial barriers in developing nations.
5. Sustainability & Green Jobs
The green economy is expected to create 24 million jobs by 2030, driving a transition toward circular economies and sustainable industries.
The EU’s Green Deal and China’s carbon neutrality plan are major steps.
Renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and circular economies are expanding.
Challenges: High investment costs, political resistance, and transitioning from fossil fuels.
G20 Nations and Regional Unions: Position Index
Argentina 🇦🇷
Supports integrating cultural heritage into national development strategies.
Advocates for stronger education policies to enhance youth employment.
Emphasizes social inclusion and reducing inequality.
Seeks investments in creative industries to boost economic diversification.
Supports international cooperation for skill development.
Prioritizes sustainable economic models over GDP growth.
Australia 🇦🇺
Promotes digital education and upskilling in emerging sectors.
Supports indigenous cultural preservation in national policies.
Encourages flexible work models for work-life balance.
Advocates for AI and automation in job creation.
Strengthens trade ties for cultural exchange and creative economy growth.
Focuses on environmental sustainability alongside economic progress.
Brazil 🇧🇷
Prioritizes cultural preservation as an economic growth strategy.
Advocates for equal access to quality education.
Encourages employment policies that support informal workers.
Seeks investments in the creative and tourism industries.
Promotes social welfare programs for poverty reduction.
Supports green jobs to transition toward a sustainable economy.
Canada 🇨🇦
Emphasizes multiculturalism in economic and social policies.
Advocates for inclusive education and equal job opportunities.
Supports indigenous rights and cultural heritage.
Invests in lifelong learning programs.
Encourages work-life balance and mental health policies.
Promotes green economy growth with job creation in renewable energy.
China 🇨🇳
Prioritizes STEM education to drive innovation.
Supports government-led employment programs for youth.
Invests in cultural industries for economic diversification.
Strengthens vocational training to adapt to automation.
Expands digital education platforms globally.
Promotes sustainable urbanization for job creation.
France 🇫🇷
Advocates for cultural industries as drivers of economic growth.
Supports free and equal education access.
Encourages labor policies that balance productivity and well-being.
Strengthens international partnerships in education.
Invests in green energy employment initiatives.
Promotes lifelong learning to adapt to a post-growth economy.
Germany 🇩🇪
Focuses on vocational training and dual education systems.
Supports work-life balance policies.
Encourages green jobs and sustainable industries.
Invests in creative industries as an economic pillar.
Strengthens global educational partnerships.
Advocates for AI-driven employment strategies.
India 🇮🇳
Advocates for inclusive education policies.
Supports digital skilling initiatives for rural employment.
Strengthens startup ecosystems in creative industries.
Promotes cultural diversity in economic planning.
Encourages vocational training in emerging sectors.
Supports public-private partnerships in education and employment.
Indonesia 🇮🇩
Prioritizes employment in tourism and cultural heritage sectors.
Advocates for affordable education access.
Supports digital economy integration into job creation.
Encourages global partnerships for cultural exchange.
Strengthens policies for informal sector workers.
Invests in sustainable industries for economic resilience.
Italy 🇮🇹
Promotes heritage conservation as an economic asset.
Advocates for universal access to quality education.
Encourages digital transformation in job sectors.
Strengthens labor policies for youth employment.
Invests in creative industries as a post-growth economy model.
Supports cultural diplomacy for global prosperity.
Japan 🇯🇵
Focuses on high-tech education and vocational training.
Advocates for AI and robotics in job creation.
Supports work-life balance through policy reforms.
Promotes cultural exchange for economic integration.
Strengthens sustainability initiatives in employment sectors.
Invests in reskilling programs for an aging workforce.
Mexico 🇲🇽
Supports cultural integration in education policies.
Advocates for gender equality in employment.
Invests in creative economy growth.
Strengthens small business and entrepreneurship support.
Encourages international cooperation in vocational training.
Promotes sustainable tourism as a key economic driver.
Russia 🇷🇺
Focuses on STEM education to drive technological growth.
Supports cultural industries for economic diversification.
Strengthens employment policies for an evolving job market.
Encourages digital transformation in education and employment.
Invests in AI and automation training programs.
Promotes sustainable economic policies beyond GDP growth.
Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦
Supports Vision 2030 with cultural and economic integration.
Encourages investment in education reform.
Strengthens youth employment policies.
Invests in tourism and heritage conservation.
Supports digital economy job creation.
Promotes women’s empowerment in the workforce.
South Africa 🇿🇦
Prioritizes equal access to education.
Advocates for cultural heritage-driven economic growth.
Encourages skill development for unemployed youth.
Strengthens trade partnerships in creative industries.
Supports sustainable job creation policies.
Promotes digital inclusion in employment sectors.
South Korea 🇰🇷
Leads in high-tech and AI-driven employment sectors.
Encourages global collaboration in digital education.
Supports work-life balance policies.
Strengthens employment laws to adapt to future jobs.
Invests in sustainable and cultural industries.
Promotes vocational training for non-traditional careers.
Turkey 🇹🇷
Encourages cultural preservation in national development.
Supports education accessibility for economic growth.
Strengthens policies for labor rights and employment stability.
Invests in creative and tourism sectors.
Promotes global trade integration for cultural industries.
Advocates for digital and vocational training initiatives.
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Promotes education policies that integrate arts and sciences.
Supports sustainable business models for employment.
Strengthens international academic collaboration.
Encourages green energy job creation.
Invests in lifelong learning and reskilling.
Supports cultural diplomacy for global partnerships.
United States 🇺🇸
Focuses on innovation-driven education models.
Advocates for flexible work environments.
Invests in AI and automation workforce development.
Strengthens job creation in renewable energy sectors.
Encourages higher wages and fair labor policies.
Supports cultural industries for economic diversification.
Regional Unions’ Positions Index
European Union 🇪🇺
Advocates for cultural integration in sustainable economies.
Supports free and equal access to education.
Encourages digital transition in the job market.
Invests in social security for employment stability.
Strengthens green economy job initiatives.
Promotes cross-border employment mobility.
African Union 🌍
Prioritizes education accessibility across the continent.
Supports youth employment and entrepreneurship.
Encourages cultural heritage as a driver of economic growth.
Strengthens informal sector policies for job creation.
Invests in digital literacy for future employment.
Promotes regional cooperation for sustainable growth.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Digital Inclusion & Inequality – The global digital divide is worsening, with low-income countries struggling with tech access.
Mental Health & Workplace Reform – Nations are implementing four-day workweeks, mental health policies, and flexible work models.
Policy Innovation – Cities like Amsterdam and Taiwan are experimenting with participatory democracy and digital governance.
VALID RESOURCES FOR RESEARCH
G20 Official Reports & Summit Declarations
Sherpa Track Policy Papers & Communiqués
United Nations & Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
UNDP Human Development Reports
Economic and Social Research Institutions
Academic Journals & Think Tanks
Government Policy Papers & National Strategies
Ministry of Labour and Employment Reports
National Economic and Cultural Policies of G20 Member States
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Books & Reports:
The Future of Work: Robots, AI, and Automation – Darrell M. West
The Happiness Industry: How the Government and Big Business Sold Us Well-Being – William Davies
Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist – Kate Raworth
Relevant Documentaries & Media:
Inside Bill’s Brain (Netflix) – The role of innovation in social progress.
The True Cost – Impact of globalization on labor and sustainability.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES FROM DELEGATES
Comprehensive Policy Proposals
Delegates must propose policies that integrate culture, education, and employment into a sustainable prosperity model.
Innovative Frameworks & Global Cooperation
Emphasis on cross-border collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and ethical policymaking.
Alternative Economic Indicators
Delegates should debate and propose new ways to measure prosperity beyond GDP.
Action Plans for Future G20 Summits
Realistic strategies for policy implementation at national and international levels.
Strong Negotiation & Consensus Building
The final communique should reflect a balanced, well-researched, and forward-thinking global strategy.
CONCLUSION
This committee presents an opportunity to challenge outdated economic paradigms and advocate for a sustainable, inclusive future. We encourage delegates to think critically, negotiate effectively, and propose actionable solutions that will redefine global prosperity for the generations to come.
We look forward to your insightful debates and resolutions!
Best of luck, Delegates!
Executive Board | LPS G20 Model