Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown will join the Guardian's Opinion executive editor, Hugh Muir, for a live event exploring the connections between global instability and the breakdown of civic life. The discussion, titled 'The future starts with us: Gordon Brown in conversation,' will take place on Thursday 10 September 2026 at the Royal Geographical Society in London.
Brown will outline practical ways individuals can engage in their communities and contribute to renewing the global order, drawing on themes from his new book, The Future Starts With Us. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of the book.
The event comes amid widespread concerns over war, mass migration, economic disruption and climate collapse, as well as a perceived erosion of civic life leading to loneliness and loss of community spirit. Brown will address why millions are turning to populist nationalist parties and what can be done to counter these trends.
Tickets are £35 for in-person attendance and £15 for the livestream. All proceeds support the Guardian's journalism. A recording will be available for four weeks after the event.
