"THE FIGHTBACK OF LIBERAL EUROPE" - Estoril Conferences
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Number 5 | August 2018 | Quarterly | estorilconferences.org
From Globalization
to Renationalization
Carlos Carreiras
» Mayor of Cascais
INTERVIEW
Nuno Santos
» Chief Executive Officer Gfi Portugal
“It is always
possible to do more...”
“THE FIGHTBACK
OF LIBERAL EUROPE”
» Alberto Alemanno
IN THIS EDITION of an open investigation against Salvini,
Italy’s Interior Minister who has made the
From Globalization frontpages for its strong stand against im-
to Renationalization » P. 4 migration. By refusing the disembarkment
| Carlos Carreiras of stranded migrants who are afforded in-
ternational protection, Salvini has brought
upon himself an inquiry for illegal confine-
The European ment, illegal arrest and abuse of power.
Lack of Response » P. 6
| Miguel Pinto Luz But a living democracy enjoys not only
formal protection mechanisms. An alert
civil society, a vibrant public space and a
Islamism and Far-righ dynamic academia are usually faithful wa-
- The same Dark Side tchdogs of democratic governance. That
of Western Modernity » P. 8 EDITORIAL was the case of Euromaidan, in Ukraine,
| Felipe Pathé Duarte that gathered thousands of people who,
» Teresa Violante
for several months, publicly called for Eu-
Chair of the Estoril Conferences
ropean integration and the deposition of
The Impact
A GLOBAL REVIEW of Institutions in the President Yanukovytch (whose long-time
Internationalization
of Multinational
“DEMOCRACY DIES IN DARKNESS” advisor was, curiously, Paul Manafort).
More recently, thousands of Romanians
In this issue of the Global Review we count on the spe-
Enterprises: An Emerging have hit the streets rallying against entren-
cial participation of Alberto Alemanno, former speaker In the early days of the Trump Adminis- struggle to give teeth to the Copenhagen
Market Perspective* » P. 12 ched corruption and low wages.
of the Estoril Conferences (2017), academic, author, po- tration, the Washington Post adopted its criteria that demand stability of institutions
litical activist and founder of The Good Lobby. Alberto | John Luiz current slogan. It reads “Democracy dies guaranteeing democracy and the rule of On the academic side, I highlight the re-
writes on the importance of the next European elections in darkness” and there has been much de- law from Member States. Other countries cent launching of the Democratic Decay
in 2019 and the possible threat of a united international The Fightback bate on what it exactly means. Although pose threats to the founding values of the Resource (DEM-DEC), an online platform
populist front. of Liberal easily taken as a direct reply to Trump’s European dream, namely the respect and aimed at surveying the incremental de-
Europe » P. 14 attacks on free press and the media, its protection of human rights and minorities. terioration of democratic rule worldwide,
Carlos Carreiras, Miguel Pinto Luz and Teresa Violante origins go back to an opinion by Judge This is not random. The values for which the framed as one of today’s most pressing
have accepted the same challenge and also share with | Alberto Alemanno
Damon J. Keith, of the U.S. Court of Appe- European Union stands for have long been global challenges. Although primarily de-
our audience their views on the subject while John M. als for the 6th circuit, who ruled that the under attack. Mr. Putin’s invitation to the signed for public lawyers, this collaborati-
Luiz, from the University of Cape Town, considers the INTERVIEW government couldn’t wiretap individuals wedding of a famous Austrian politician is a ve platform can also be a powerful tool for
impact of institutions in the internationalization of multi- without a warrant. Allegedly, he wrote that blunt reminder that orchestrated attacks on policymakers and the informed citizenry.
“It is always possible
national enterprises, especially in South Africa. And Feli- “Democracy dies in the dark”. The Post’s our liberties and founding principles have
to do more...” » P. 18 An informed citizenry is, in fact, the most
pe Pathé Duarte underlines the commonalities between new tagline variation was suggested by systematically proved detrimental to wes-
| Nuno Santos powerful weapon against democratic ero-
Islamism and the Far-right. Bob Woodward, the famous investigati- tern democratic rule. A handful of recent
sion. The will of the people has been cru-
ve journalist who disclosed Watergate, a examples prove this: Ukraine, Brexit, the US
As always, globalization reviewed by the world of the BOOK REVIEW case that became a beacon for the rule of presidential elections and the Russian fun-
cial for the democratic expansion after the
Second World War. We need to secure it
Estoril Conferences. ‘Fire and Fury’ law and the checks on political power in a ding of the European extreme right parties.
in order not waste this success. But the
- Michael Wolff » P. 24 lively democracy. Despite the origins, the
However, a constitutional democracy ke- democratic dangers abounding must be
| João Tiago Teixeira tagline is a daily reminder of the frailty of
eps in place mechanisms that check the firmly disclosed and tackled. An informed
the “worst form of government except for
exercise of public power. In the United and knowledgeable citizenry is not easy
all the others”.
States, the ongoing Special Counsel Inves- to keep in an era of post-facts and con-
NEWS » P. 26
Paradoxically, after the largest historical tigation focusses on the Russian govern- tested rationality. That is why the mission
rui.cordeiro@estorilglobal.org
expansion of democratic regimes, we are ment’s meddling in the presidential elec- of the Estoril Conferences is now more
living times of danger for democracy. Cou- tions, including the possible collusion with important than ever. When we began, in
ntries which had experienced consolidated the current President’s campaign. One of 2009, we pioneered in providing the stage
forms of democratic governance and pro- President Trump’s strong men, Paul Ma- for open, informative and rational debates.
IMPRESSUM Editors › John M. Luiz Advertising
› Cátia Rebocho › Nuno Santos › Cátia Rebocho ved to be successful models of transition, nafort, has already been found guilty of In 2019, when celebrating our tenth anni-
Founders › João Tiago Teixeira › Alberto Alemanno
› Teresa Violante
are now taking steps back and refraining, serious federal crimes. At the very same versary, we will remain faithful to our core
› João Tiago Teixeira Administration
› Rui Cordeiro In this edition: › Edifício Cascais Center at least, from the model of liberal democra- time, Trump’s former lawyer, Michael mission, proudly embracing our one and
› Carlos Carreiras Graphic Design Rua Manuel Joaquim Avelar, 118, piso 2 cy. Poland and Hungary are the landmark Cohen, plead guilty to several charges, in- only bias: a strong commitment to liberal
Managing Director › Filipa Ferreira 2750-421 - Cascais | Portugal
› Miguel Pinto Luz
› Rui Cordeiro › T. +351 21 132 99 33 European cases of this kind and the for- cluding violation of campaign finance laws democracy so that, as Lincoln urged in the
› Felipe Pathé Duarte
› info@conferenciasdoestoril.org
mer is giving European institutions a hard – on behalf of the now POTUS. Gettysburg Address, the “government of
time. Both the European Commission and the people, for the people, by the people,
Property: Câmara Municipal de Cascais the Court of Justice of the European Union On these days, we were also informed shall not perish from the Earth”.
Isento de registo na Entidade Reguladora para
a Comunicação Social ao abrigo do Decreto
Regulamentar nº 8/99, de 9 de Junho, artigo 12º, nº 1, al. b).
teresa.violante@estorilglobal.org
04 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | IN THIS EDITION | Number 5 August 2018 05
The second factor has to do with the markets’ reputation cri- everywhere. The crisis of representative government is real.
sis. The financial crises that erupted in 2007 taught us that, On the one hand, we have autocracies that, sanctioned by
in the absence of a moral regulation, capitalism needs lawful strong economic results, increasingly rob us of our personal
one. Much remains to be done and, as several respected voi- freedoms. On the other hand, we have Western societies frac-
ces have forewarned, we are not safe from further crises with tured by debates about immigration, victims of a hyperbole
catastrophic social consequences. Anti-liberal forces took ad- inequality and poisoned by a public debate (can we still call it
vantage of the markets crisis’s to launch the anathemas on the that?) based on ignorance inflated by social networks.
free market idea, advancing its statist agenda.
The democratic crisis in our societies is even deeper due to
“The crisis of representative a war of extremes that has weakened the core and exposed
government is real.” democracy’s jugular to its enemies. The extreme left now
commands the moderate left on the well-known “rights agen-
American isolationism and unilateralism: this is the third factor da”. In many cases, this agenda is no more than an assault
that has encouraged the withdrawal of the liberal order. The on order and tradition. Be they democratic institutions, the
US, as a beacon of rights and freedom, used to lead by exam- Church or family. The counterrevolutionary wave has no incli-
ple. Regardless of the convictions of each, it is now evident ne towards moderation and civility.
that American legitimacy is wounded. The attack on multilate-
ral institutions, however great their need for reform, gives us a All this has heightened the lack of commitment noted in the
dim picture of the future. electoral demolition we see everywhere, and in theConferences
dominant
© Estoril
narrative of “people” versus “elites” that devours the represen-
The fourth factor is linked to the technological disruption that tative regime.
© Estoril Conferences defines the fourth industrial revolution. Hyperlinks pose tre-
mendous challenges to the privacy and individual freedom of
The central political setting, on which peace and prosperity
FROM GLOBALIZATION
citizens. More than that: technology has had a profound impact
projects in Europe were built, seems hopelessly lost. We do
on human relations and, consequently, on political systems as
not know how this world will be in the coming years. We just
well. We have never been so connected and simultaneously so
know it will not be the same and it will probably be worse.
far apart from each other; we have never had so much infor-
TO RENATIONALIZATION
mation, but we have never been so averse to the curious spirit;
we have never known so many places in the world, but we have
never been so intolerant of the differences between us.
The fifth and final factor, perhaps the most decisive one, has
» Carlos Carreiras accelerated erosion. At this rate our world and peace, as we to do with the antidemocratic wave that we have seen a little carlos.carreiras@cm-cascais.pt
Mayor of Cascais know them, have their days numbered.
Political liberalism is in an accelerated erosion. At this rate our I have identified five major factors that have contributed to this
world and peace, as we know them, have their days numbe- retreat from liberalism underpinning moderate political ideas.
red. Half the world is focused on Donald Trump’s nonsense.
The potentials for indignation with his tweets seems endless. First factor, the recession of globalization. Globalization
OCTOBER 19
Honestly, let’s focus on the essential. The tectonic plates of
NOVA SBE, CARCAVELOS
was the great social lift of the world. For 99% of our history,
international politics are stirring and there are several epicen- mankind survived with less means, less comfort and less
More information at pttalks.pt
ters to this global earthquake. knowledge than we have today. Globalization changed that.
With all its faults, globalization was the greatest tool for po-
“Technology has had a profound impact verty eradication that humanity has ever known. Around the
1ST EDITION
ABSTENTION IN PORTUGAL
1800s, 84% of world population was extremely poor. This last
on human relations and, consequently, century that percentage fell to less than 10%. But there is no
on political systems as well.” shortage of those who, based on nationalist political projects,
Diagnosis and possible solutions
want to launch trade wars that will worsen inequality and in-
The renationalization of politics goes hand in hand with the clo- justice rather than mitigate them. Value chains - especially
sed attack on supranational forms of political organization. Po- those of multinationals - are under fire. Industrial relocations
litical liberalism - a set of values that unite the great democratic will most likely be repatriation movements to escape business,
curve in defense of a global economy, the law, the rule of men jobs, and innovation killing taxation. The world will become a
#PTTALKS
by the law and the inviolability of individual freedoms - is in an poorer place.
Institutional support Partners
© MARIO CRUZ
06 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | IN THIS EDITION | Number 5 August 2018
THE
EUROPEAN
LACK OF
RESPONSE
© Estoril Conferences
» Miguel Pinto Luz
Deputy Mayor of Cascais
Europe needs leadership and vision. It is the lack of leader-
ship that allows the rise of demagogic, populist dialogs and WHAT IF YOU COULD CREATE
AN ENTIRE BANKING SYSTEM WITHOUT
vain promises, without adherence to reality, but with strong
Populism has once again become a topic. There is no article, diffusion amongst the constituency. At this stage Leadership
A SINGLE A BANK?
conference or debate that does not enter into deep discussion entails, above all, common sense and rationality.
about the populist current that is growing and flourishing both
in Europe and in the United States of America. But more than
talking or lamenting these currents that gain strength and win “The European project,
votes, it is important to recognize the motive and to support a
with its bureaucracies and removal Most people would consider the above thought simply impossible, if not downright ridiculous. But M-Pesa was not created
concrete answer.
from European consciousness, needs by most people. It was invented by individuals who believe in the power of ideas. M-Pesa is an African innovation, born
This is the issue. How do phenomena like the one in Hungary to return to its founding bases.” out of necessity. Today it’s become the most successful mobile money transfer service in the world, and enables millions of
or the Tea Party, in the USA, arise? There are many factors. The
European project lacks an affirmative and positive response, The European project, with its bureaucracies and removal from people with a mobile phone, but not a bank account, to send and receive money.
especially in Europe. This project dreamed up by true states- European consciousness, needs to return to its founding bases.
Peace, one of our greatest achievements, needs to have eco- Do you have the potential to revolutionise an industry? There’s only one way find out. Enrol today.
men and visionaries is undoubtedly the most beautiful project
nomic and social continuity. We need a Europe with a coherent
economy and a social state that allows every European to live a Because a new world needs new ideas.
“It is the lack of leadership that dignified life and a land of opportunities, across borders.
allows the rise of demagogic, populist
dialogs and vain promises.” There are many challenges, but we cannot live in Euroscepti-
cism. We all need to be Eurobrave.
ever conceived. More than idealized it’s already executed. It
has some imperfections, yes, but today’s politicians should be
focused on improving the European project and not on a steri-
le debate without decision-making power.
miguel.luz@cm-cascais.pt
08 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | IN THIS EDITION | Number 5 August 2018 09
ISLAMISM hyper-conservatism and an ethno-nationalism identity of white
supremacy. In common, they have fascist, nazi and anti-Semitic
a market economy and a materialistic society, an organic and
humanized community would oppose it; to global and uproo-
AND FAR-RIGHT
ideas and symbols as well as disdain for democracy. ted capitalism, an identity system should counter it. As such, in
the political extremism of the post-Cold War we can witness a
We can identify three types of agents of this new Far-right in restraint to the Western liberal universalist claim and globaliza-
Europe. A first that encompasses the “classic” right-wing popu- tion. Islamism and the Far-right are both a product of western
THE SAME DARK SIDE list parties that are growing electorally. There is a second, that
is made of by gangs that have a more criminal than an ideologi-
modernity. Sayyd Qutb (1906-1966), intellectual founder of the
Islamism movement, results from the influence of several Eu-
ropean thinkers such as Nietzsche or Fichte for example. In his
OF WESTERN MODERNITY
cal-political component – based on transnational networks, but
the connection between them is tenuous and, in some cases, thought we also see bolshevist conceptions on the seizing of
competitive. And finally, apart from the agents mentioned abo- power; or fascist conceptions, beginning with the idea of vio-
ve, there are groups surfacing that claim to want to preserve lence as a path to create a new world.
the “ethno-cultural identity of Europe”, perceived as white, Ch-
» Felipe Pathé Duarte ristian or, in some cases, pagan. They believed the “indigenous” “Islamism and the Far-right]
Assistant Professor, Institute Europeans are being replaced by muslims and migrants. It is an are born as an alternative
of Police Sciences and Internal Security identitarian movement. It is a new Far-right, young, hipster, and to the modern and global world, but
well educated, looking to stand out from the “failures” of the
are nonethAeless a result of that same
past. They are exponentially growing are quite active on social
modernity and globalization.”
Context: sionary than secular attitude; and a third one that considers networks. These three are fed by the same anti-establishment
armed violence as its matrix. In the first case, we have a com- anger that is benefiting populist parties throughout Europe. Both movements (Islamism and Far-right) reject their own cultures
Although justified in opposition, Islam and the new Far-right
prehensive arch that can, for example, go from the Justice and They also take advantage of the public concern regarding the (Islamic or Western), depositing their hopes on a on a mythical and
belong to one side of the same coin. That is, they have a po-
Development Party (AKP) in Turkey, to the Muslim Brotherhood jihadist threat, the migratory crisis and the apparent failure of eschatological future. They are totalitarian projects, revolutionary
litical narrative with several common elements: its intellectual
and the several groups that stemmed from it, such as the Hizb the multicultural policies. vehicles that attempt to take history by assault. To storm history.
root, the social fringe where they are developed and the same
ut-Tahrir, the al-Muhajiroun, or the Ennahada. From the second Both are born as an alternative to the modern and global world, but
modus operandi. Perhaps that is the reason why there is a mu-
case we find, for instance, the salafi movement. Armed violence are nonetheless a result of that same modernity and globalization.
tual dependence that is essential to them. They do not cancel
as the only form of obtaining power is where jihadism thrives, They are symptoms of a disease for which they claim to be the cure.
each other out, but instead complement one another. Both mo-
with groups such as al-Qaeda, DAESH or Hamas.
vements are born on the Dark Side of globalization and have as
their target the way of living of liberal-democracies.
b) It should be noted, however, that the violence that arises
from these two movements has its origin in an individual and
pessimistic revolt for an illusory world. There is nothing more
a) Contemporary Sunni Islamism actively seeks not only the af-
western and modern. Contrary to what we tend to perceive,
firmation and promotion of the faith, but also the conception of
it has little to do with religious or ethno-identity conceptions.
government formulas of Islamic inspiration. It is a reactive and
There is a reciprocal anger to them. Islamists exploit xenopho-
rupture movement within the Muslim world. It can be histori-
bic and Far-right rhetoric. It is a way of confirming the narrative
cally determined and dated (XX and XXI centuries). It presents
that there is a deeply anti-Islamic West that wants to oppress
itself according to a formula of total life, where sociopolitical
Muslims on a global scale. In turn, the Far-right sees jihadist
and economic actions are well established. It is an orthopraxy.
terrorists as representatives of all Muslims.
In other words, it has a matrix that molds all spheres of society
in favor of a cause. But, distancing itself from secular “aridity”,
Both Islamists and the Far-right have successfully created coun-
it picks up principles and foundations from the Islamic religion.
ter-cultures that have exploited identity crises and have elevated
And transforms them into ideological precepts that are used
in political rhetoric. Islamism is a revolutionary ideology that is
Analysis: resentments against the establishment. The reaction is a hyper-
-identity that favors the idea of belonging. The point is that both
seeking to seize power. And it uses specific forms of action to a) There is more that unites these movements than that which
sides do not comprehend that the conflict is not the result of
achieve it. It is not that different from other modern western to- b) It is very difficult to reach a clear definition of what is the separates them. They are sustained on both modern and wes-
a cultural or civilizational clash. It is the confrontation between
talitarian political formulas. But with the characteristic of being Far-right. Its groups, its activities and ideological commitments tern ideological constructions. In fact, the hatred for the values
two extreme counter-cultures which complement each other.
a hybrid that blends a myth of utopian ideological hope with a differ. However, in a rather generic form, we are referring to the of tolerance, individual freedom and equality that characteri-
regressive narrative of religious connotation. Which means that, opposition of the principal foundations of a liberal democracy zes the West is a western movement! We can trace it back to “Both Islamists and
hermeneutically, these precepts are reduced to instruments of – one that safeguards minority groups – and the conception of the counter European enlightenment of the late XIX century, in
the Far-right have successfully
analysis of political and social conflicts, thereby justifying the national identity and citizenship based in civility and political particular to the romantic ideal that glorifies will and subjec-
struggle for power. pluralism. Despite the diversity, there are common elements: tivity against unifying reason. This romantic idealism was the
created counter-cultures
racism, xenophobia, ultra-nationalism and authoritarianism. The Germanic reaction to not only the French representation of a that have exploited identity crises
We can identify three distinct forms of Islamism. The first one new Far-right is a rising and eclectic socio-political movement universal civilization built on reason, as well as a reaction to and have elevated resentments
is of a more political character; the second one has a more mis- that congregates several political groups involved on a social Scottish liberalism. The same is to say that to the mechanics of against the establishment.”
10 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | IN THIS EDITION | Number 5 August 2018 11
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
-right encourage apocalyptic thinking and conspiracy theo-
ries. That is, fear – which incites violence and, in some cases, Duarte, Felipe Pathé; Jihadismo Global
– Das Palavras aos Actos; Lisbon: Marcador, 2015.
inspires terrorist actions.
Ebner, Julia; The Rage: The Vicious Circle of Islamist
It is a fact that, in recent years, jihadist attacks have killed and Far Right Extremism; London: I.B. Tauris & Co Ltd, 2018.
many lives. And, by their size and nature, they have establi-
Gray, John; Black Mass: Apocalyptic Religion
shed a symbiotic relationship with the media. Far-right attacks and the Death of Utopia; New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2008.
on minority communities, refugee camps and political oppo-
nents have been increasingly frequent but less deadly. Reason Roy, Olivier; Globalized Islam; New York:
Columbia University Press, 2004.
why they have had less media coverage and have not been
labeled as terrorism.
There is an inconsistency when we speak and react to different Felipe Pathé Duarte
forms of extremism. It is comprehensible. However, it can be Assistant Professor at the Instituto Superior de Ciências Po-
harmful, in the long run. It will upset the scale, giving more liciais e Segurança Interna and Universidade Autónoma de
weight to one side. One must understand that common sen- Lisboa, where he also developed a post-doctoral project on
se or middle-term (which characterizes liberal democracies) Euro-Mediterranean security. He is also a consultant in Vi-
is disappearing, giving rise to the extremes. It takes dialogue sionWare for the areas of geopolitics, risk analysis and secu-
and assimilation, especially from those who are vulnerable to rity. He is a resident commentator on international security
both messages. affairs at RTP.
fduarte@visionware.pt
Source: Pew Research Center
These counter-culture movements resonate more with the you- closer and closer to the political center, gradually institutionali-
nger generations, especially those who have no idea of what zing these ideas, increasingly polarizing societies.
the world was like before 9/11 and the War on Terror. The di-
vision of the world into black and white favors radicalization, “Islamists claim that the West
which is no more than the result of the clash between expec-
is at war with Islam. In turn,
tation and reality. In both cases there is a rejection of Western
society and a sense of humiliation. More than the result of a
the Far-right groups claim that Muslims
social experience, all this should be seen as an existential and are at war with the West.
generational revolt. Note that a precise social condition or his- This causes both movements
torical context that made them rebel is never referred to. It is a to be rhetorical allies, reinforcing
generation disillusioned with the collateral and negative effects and nourishing each other.”
of modernity and globalization. As a result, many find them-
selves in anti-modern and anti-globalist Islamist or ultra-right If we look through a magnifier, we see that the moral deduc-
wing ideologies. DAESH was able to attract second or third ge- tions of these ideas are similar, as is their social and politi-
neration migrant adolescents to go to Syria. The Far-right net- cal impact. They are both grounded on the victimization of a
works have been able to gain momentum amongst Generation group and the demonization of an external group; they pre-
Z. All this, paradoxically, while exploiting modern technology sent a salvific alter-reality; articulate the feeling of injustice,
and global social networks. with hope and identification with the means as a way to the
ends; they argue that there is a global conspiracy; explore the
c) Both have common tactics. Here, the message is at its core. idea of fear of loss of identity. It is obvious that the message
As stated above, Islamists claim that the West is at war with will have as much impact as political-social resentment the
Islam. In turn, the Far-right groups claim that Muslims are at war audience has. These two counter-cultures are thus created.
with the West. This causes both movements to be rhetorical
allies, reinforcing and nourishing each other. Islamists present On both sides there are groups that adopt violence – be it ter-
the Far-right as the representatives of the West. And the latter rorism or hate crimes – in order to achieve their ends. Others
see the former as the totality of the whole Muslim community. resort to less kinetic strategies, such as hate speech, infor-
The question now is that these two extremes are progressing mation warfare or street activism. Both Islamism and the Far-
12 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | IN THIS EDITION | Number 5 August 2018 13
The Impact of Institutions in the
advantages (FSAs) and combine them with their country specific The work has implications for developed MNE (DMNEs) strate-
advantages (CSAs), related to understanding how to do business gies too. It suggests that their FSAs do not necessarily translate
in milieus of institutional uncertainty (due to their home country equally well into emerging markets with high levels of institutio-
Internationalization of Multinational Enterprises: knowledge of such institutions), and thereby construct further
distinctive resource advantages. This gave it both a comparative
nal voids. These DMNEs may find themselves as proverbial ‘fish
out of water’ as they struggle to capitalize upon these advan-
AN EMERGING
and competitive institutional advantage in its process of interna- tages in this environment. As growth continues to dominate in
tionalization and it chose it locations in such a way as to capitalize emerging countries it therefore implies that we are likely to con-
upon these advantages at distinct phases. We demonstrate that tinue seeing the disproportionate rise of MNEs from emerging
*
MARKET PERSPECTIVE
emerging market MNEs (EMNEs) can exploit their knowledge of, markets as this growth plays to their strengths. Africa represents
what would in institutional theory be perceived as, weak institutio- a particularly extreme institutional and business environment
nal settings and turn it into a source of advantage as they interna- and thus DMNEs are likely to struggle to adapt. This may explain
tionalize into locations with similar institutional ‘weakness’. Over why when Walmart in 2011 decided to enter Africa it chose to
time they are able to construct further resource advantages and do so by buying a 51% stake in Africa’s second largest retailer,
move into countries with less familiar institutional environments. Massmart from South Africa, rather than go it alone. Likewise, it
» John M. Luiz gained from initially capitalizing upon institutional complemen- may explain the offer by AB InBev to acquire SABMiller in late
School of Business, Management and Economics, tarity (utilizing the comparative advantage linked to institutio- “We see an emerging 2015. Africa is thus fertile territory for expansion of EMNEs. But
University of Sussex; and Graduate School nal know-how) by exploiting the experience of the home cou- multinational learning and building DMNEs are rapidly building their capabilities in doing business in
of Business, University of Cape Town ntry’s environment into similar settings. Over time and through its capabilities by leveraging off emerging markets in the context of institutional voids and this
Dustin Stringfellow and Anthea Jefthas learning-by-doing, pressure arose to diversify the risk linked experience will be put to the severe test in Africa. Acquiring nas-
its understanding of its home country
Graduate School of Business, University of Cape Town with over-exposure to institutional uncertainty and country risk, cent MNEs arising out of Africa is likely to be a growing trend as
and this was associated with the process of institutional substi-
institutional environment.” DMNEs ‘purchase’ the expertise and footprint that these African
Multinational enterprises (MNEs) can exploit their knowledge of tution into more advanced countries. We see an emerging mul- In terms of implications for practice, we argue that when interna- companies possess.
‘weak’ institutional settings and turn it into a source of advan- tinational learning and building its capabilities by leveraging off tionalizing firms should consider not only the host country’s ins-
tage as they internationalize into locations with similar institu- its understanding of its home country institutional environment. titutional environment but also be aware of potential institutional
tional ‘weaknesses.’ benefits that its home country could offer. However, these benefits
We examine home country institutions as a source of compa- are not automatic and to capitalize upon this they need to deve- *This piece was adapted from an academic article by John Luiz, Dus-
lop their institutional leverage capability. We show that EMNE ma- tin Stringfellow and Anthea Jefthas that first appeared in the Global
Using the case of one Africa’s most successful multinational en- rative and competitive advantage in internationalization but
Strategy Journal, 7(1): 83-103.
question how and why some companies are able to leverage nagers can turn a source of potential disadvantage, namely home
terprises, South African Breweries (SAB), we illustrate the value
off local institutional benefits whilst others are unable to do so? country institutional uncertainty, into a source of advantage.
Moreover, how do firms exploit domestic institutional advanta- john.luiz@gsb.uct.ac.za
ges and when is this exploitation of particular relevance?
“Emerging market MNEs (EMNEs)
can exploit their knowledge of, what would
in institutional theory be perceived
as, weak institutional settings
and turn it into a source of advantage
as they internationalize into locations
with similar institutional ‘weakness’.”
SAB’s path reflects the differences between multinationals from
developed and emerging markets in terms of location choices, se-
quencing, time horizons and motivation. A two-phased expansion
path emerges to explain the remarkable success story. The first
pillar to SAB’s international expansion was a focus on developing
markets. Coming from a developing country itself, the company
would cope better with emerging market conditions than brewers
from the developed world. These ventures became a powerful base
for SAB to take on developed markets. The second was to expand
into developed countries. This became necessary as it became cle-
ar the company was over exposed to emerging markets.
UCT Graduate School of Business We show how SAB was able to build on its initial firm specific
14 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | IN THIS EDITION | Number 5 August 2018 15
THE FIGHTBACK
» Alberto Alemanno
Professor of EU Law at HEC Paris
The outcome of the next European parliament elec-
tions in May 2019 will be hugely consequential yet
OF LIBERAL EUROPE
unpredictable for the continent’s future and durability
of Europe’s Western-led order. The increasing salien-
ce of the effects of EU policies on citizens’ lives com-
bined with existing economic interdependence and
growing political interconnectedness may render this
electoral moment the first, genuine European political
competition. Yet at the time these elections may start As the left-right divide gives way to an open-closed one, popu- At present, the incipient Europeanisation of the political system
to matter to more citizens, they are poised to unveil list, nationalist and EU sceptic forces can be found in most of - which has historically occured at the fringes - is further acce-
Europe’s outer limits. The EU lacks an authentic Euro- the mainstream European political groups within the European lerated by the emergence of new political actors, with transna-
pean political space capable of providing transnational Parliament — and not just on the fringes. These anti-establish- tional ambitions, from the very left to the very right. One may
responses to many of the challenges facing the conti- ment forces are expected to increase their standing and sha- consider the left-leaning coalition led by Yanis Varoufakis and
nent, ranging from migration to climate change; a sys- pe the new political Zeitgeist throughout the continent. Some Benoît Hamon, and supported by Portuguese Livre, Polish Ra-
tem through which citizens can exercise real influen- of these parties are already in office, including in Italy, Poland, zem, and Danish Alternativet, as well as the youthful Volt, and
ce and hold their representatives accountable. Once Hungary and Austria and are the most represented among the the ultra-right, etno-cultural Generation Identity.
more, in less than one year, EU citizens will be called heads of state and governments meeting in the European Cou-
to vote in the European Parliament elections on diffe- ncil. Welcome to Europe ‘new normal’. The emergence of these transnational movements along the
rent dates, according to different electoral laws, and political spectrum combined with the populist, anti-liberal and
in support of candidates selected by national parties “The increasing salience EU sceptical threat suggest that mainstream political parties
and on the basis of domestic agendas. Unsurprisingly, of the effects of EU policies on citizens’ might soon lose their historic monopoly over Europe. In other
turnout for European Parliament elections is typically
lives combined with existing words, the competing visions of Europe that might emerge
low, and citizens’ perceptions of Europe are largely mi- from such a new political landscape suggest that Europe is su-
saligned with reality. In other words, the EU political
economic interdependence
ddenly up for grab.
system has never caught up with the impact and growing political interconnectedness
European integration has had on citi- may render this electoral Ironically, at the very same moment the EU elections become
zens’ daily lives. The absence of a moment the first, genuine European more relevant to citizens and multiply the political offer, they
genuine, pan-European par- political competition.” are also set to become a battlefield for the very existence of
ty system does not only
the Union itself in what has been defined a European civil war.
heavily influence the
How did we get where we are? According to this prevailing narrative, such a war is currently
electoral game, which
being fought between the supporters of deeper EU integra-
remains largely natio- The lack of engagement by mainstream parties—such as the
tion and liberal values, on the one hand, and those who in-
nal, but also militates European Popular Party (EPP) and the Socialists & Democrats
tend to pursue an EU of independent, illiberal nations, on the
against the emergen- (S&D) —on the subject of Europe, within and beyond its bou-
other. Both sides have political champions and corresponding
ce of a EU-wide pu- ndaries, and their intermittent pro-European stance, have over
visions: French President Emmanuel Macron’s deepening of
blic opinion capable time created a political vacuum over the very same idea of
EU integration and supranational cooperation, and the anti-
of holding national Europe. Several radical populist parties, such as the UK Inde-
-immigrant right led by an incipient alliance between Italy’s
political class accou- pendence Party (UKIP), Marine Le Pen’s National Rally, Geert
Matteo Salvini, Austria’s Sebastian Kurz, France’s Marine Le
ntable transnatio- Wilders’s Party for Freedom Matteo Salvini’s League, and Al-
Pen, Hungary’s Viktor Orban and others. Paradoxically, while
nally. However, as the ternative for Germany, have filled that vacuum over the last de-
the former pro-EU camp still act mainly through the national
European Parliament cade. By gradually positioning themselves vis-à-vis the EU (to
political parties and appears increasingly reactive - as oppo-
elections approach, beat the establishment) and crafting one common political lan-
sed to proactive -, the latter is trying to organize in a pan-Eu-
the European politi- guage across their pan-European electorate, they succeeded in
ropean movement.
cal landscape is un- what mainstream political parties never even tried. While using
dergoing a profound Europe to destroy Europe may sound deeply cynical, that’s part
and historical shake- of today’s Europe realpolitik. The Euro-sceptic, anti-Atlanticist,
-up pointing to a sig- anti-trade and hostile to migration stance is no longer a pre-
“The EU political system
nificant realignment rogative of the right, but has also been embrace by the left, has never caught up
at both national and with Germany’s Die Linke, Portuguese’s Bloco de Esquerda and with the impact European integration
EU level. Spain’s Podemos. has had on citizens’ daily lives.”
16 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | IN THIS EDITION | Number 5 August 2018
“While using Europe to destroy these little-known initiatives all appear united by the desire to
Europe may sound deeply cynical, that’s
part of today’s Europe realpolitik.”
protect our European liberal, democratic system and re-think
what brings us together. Their mere, spontaneous existence
suggests that many more visions of Europe exist besides tho-
JOIN OUR
This suggests that what Salvini, Orbán and Le Pen are after se that long-standing, mainstream political parties have been
– with or without the help of Steve Bannon’s yet-to-be esta- presenting for the past several years.
blished foundation, The Movement – is not to break up Europe,
but to take control of it. They intend to shape it according to Europe’s future ‘promised land’ is more likely to be found in
their conservative Christian, nation-centered beliefs, such as
anti-migration and anti-multiculturalism, which are in turn set
to replace the values of the liberal order within the EU.
those bottom-up and citizen-driven initiatives than in the top-
-down, EU-sponsored consultations initiatives. Europe and its
believers needs to do something drastic and creative to re-
PROJECTS!
new their faith, foster civic patriotism and transcend this lon-
By turning the European elections into a cultural and societal
g-awaited moment. In short, time has come to europeanize EC JUNIOR
local problems and localize European challenges. Isn’t the job
confrontation, their plan resonates with Trump’s challenge to
liberal democracy and appears timed with an unprecedented
of politics to do so? As Pope Francis recently wrote, “creati- YOUTH SUMMIT
vity, genius and a capacity for rebirth and renewal are part of
shift in the global balance of power.
the soul of Europe”.
YOUTH
How to defend liberal Europe “Time has come for some AMBASSADOR
As the prospect of losing big spreads, a sense of urgency in humble reckoning within the liberal, GLOBAL
the pro-EU camp is prompting an unprecedented number of pro-European camp.”
political, societal and philanthropic initiatives to spring up. Yet BOOMERANG
as none of these plans alone seems capable of countering the
anti-EU camp, which meanwhile is rapidly organising transna- VOLUNTEER
tionally, they are all facing the same dilemma on how to save
Alberto Alemanno is Jean Monnet Professor of EU Law at
PROGRAM
liberal Europe.
HEC Paris, founder of The Good Lobby and the author of
Lobbying for Change: Find Your Voice to Create a Better
“They are also set to become Society, Iconbooks, 2017.
a battlefield for the very existence
of the Union itself in what has been
defined a European civil war.”
Time has come for some humble reckoning within the libe-
ral, pro-European camp. Europe’s original political objective
– that of post-war’s peace and prosperity – has exhausted its
mobilizing force with both the political class and the citizens
Empowering the leaders of tomorrow
at large. We need to envision an equally powerful, messianic,
vision for Europe capable to inspire and guide other genera-
tions of Europeans towards a better future. For this to occur,
citizens must not only be heard, but become the key actor
in the realignment of the EU to societal and most immediate
concerns, starting from the future of work and growing eco-
#ECyouth #empoweringtheleadersoftomorrow
nomic inequalities. Unless citizens begin to organise and make
their voices heard, by developing deep emotional feelings More info about Youth Projects
for community and identity - the very same populists exploit estorilconferences.org
-, the EU won’t survive. The good news is that a democratic
regeneration momentum is already flourishing within the Eu-
ropean civic space with a wealth of experiences of local de-
mocratic experimentation happening all across the continent.
While of different natures, ideological inspiration and scope,
alemanno@hec.fr
18 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | INTERVIEW | Number 5 August 2018 19
INTERVIEW
software applications and relevant service maintenance contracts It is necessary to understand that Portugal is currently living a mo-
with respect to energy efficiency, water services sustainability and, ment that I for one consider to be a moment of strong acceleration.
as such, it makes an important contribution to this concern. A moment of boost. That has to be, among other reasons, with the
acceleration of the entrance of new generations – the most recent
Nuno Santos, In Portugal, we have been saying that to be ‘smart’, one also has to
be ‘simple’ – simple city. And this is the trademark of our projects
generations, the post April 25th generations – in the world of or-
Chief Executive Officer Gfi Portugal ganizations, in positions of decision. These generations are highly
relating to the quality of public services, possible (or even more pos-
educated, with education levels that can be compared to the levels
sible) because of the good use of technology. Ease and simplicity of
of education of the best international references, and now it is neces-
service, ease and simplicity of consultation(s), speed of processes…
Could you tell us a bit about GFI Group and its main pro- sary to give them some time to assert themselves. Before this, what
all these are performance scopes of organizations that are increa-
jects and initiatives in Portugal? we had was a country that, in general, was not very literate. Results
sed with the good use of technology. In this sense, we have some
were achieved upon effort and labor, but found very little support
The GFI Group is an international group responsible for providing interesting stories with some relevant municipalities to tell. Starting,
in formal and systemic education. Therefore, this is also noticeable
services and information systems solutions, available to medium from the outset, with the municipality of Cascais.
when we discuss digital thinking.
and large companies of the most varied sectors of activities. It is a
group that was born in France, its main country of activity, that has “In Portugal, I think that one Around the table of the strategic council for digital economy pro-
been internationalizing since the 1990’s, with a successful growth moted by CIP, there are decision makers from large organizations of
of the things that, in general,
project that in the last two years has been accelerated not only but reference – these clearly in line with decision makers of equivalent
also by virtue of the strengthened support of its new benchmark
we do not do as well as I believe organizations on the international level. But the point is that they are
shareholder: an industrial conglomerate of Qatar. we could do is a very strong, very visible, not representative. And that is the challenge: to make them repre-
very loud collaboration between sentative. And that is what is being done.
The group is present in more than 20 countries and, at the moment,
it has about twenty thousand employees. Its turnover is, approxima-
state and universities.” This group of decision makers is also aware of the need to accele-
tely, 1.100 million euros but it has a project of growth able to arrive at rate the transfer of knowledge, skills and strength to the rest of the
2.000 million euros in 2020.
Cascais has been considered as a pioneer in the develo-
country. And that, in itself, will also be an accelerator so that in a few
pment of applications that transform it into a true ‘Smart
years (I do not know if five, ten or 15 years – it will also depend on the
It has been present in Portugal since the year 2000. At the time, City’, with projects like MobiCascais and CityPoints. Can it
ability of the population to accept the help, to be contaminated, to
it bought a Portuguese information systems company, in 2008 it be said that Cascais is already a ‘Smart City’ or are there
be incorporated) we can say that we are at the same level.
bought the Portuguese branch of Bull (Bull Portuguesa) and in 2016 areas in need of innovation?
bought the Roff operation – also a Portuguese company, leader But I believe we are moving at a pace like never before and that
In line with what I have just said, the work needed to be a Smart
in Portugal in “SAP” services. This means that, currently, the GFI this positive energy that is stimulating the country at this time will
City is never over. If the country had the same level of efficiency and
Group, through these two companies, GFI Portugal, of which I am continue. Even though Portugal is a small country and therefore very
continuous commitment to the change, innovation, transformation,
an administrator, and Roff, which maintains its executive team and dependent on the international situation, the global world is one that
and as a structure, with teams providing services to other markets. that Cascais has been having, we would really be a country from
its operational autonomy, has more than 1,600 employees and a tur- regulates and balances itself, with Portugal standing much to benefit
GFI Portugal is also to assert this condition within the group while another league. Let this message be a message of inspiration to all
nover close to 100 million euros. from this circumstance. As such, with that international balance, with
also showing that, in Portugal, because this new paradigm of the di- other municipalities, in their own contexts, with their own demands
this favorable international environment, this positive energy will
gital world implies a change in the typology of services that compa- and, sometimes, with the enormous difficulties of means that they
In 2017, GFI Group closed the year with a global revenue continue and things will really be going to turnout well.
nies such as GFI provide (and in Portugal we pay attention to this), live with, but that can be inspired by a story, a really extraordinary
of 1.132 million euros – a 11.5% increase when compared story – the story of Cascais – regarding its transport policies, regar-
the project of growth and transformation of the activity is to conti-
to 2016. In what manner did Portugal contribute for the ding its energy efficiency policies, water treatment, general envi- Last May, the Estoril Conferences organized, with the Get in
nue at the forefront of innovation and new trends, as we have been.
group’s results? ronmental management and the provision of services to its citizens the Ring Foundation, a special discussion session concer-
If in the next 18, 19, 20 years we do as we have done for the last few and its companies… ning the relationship between governments and innovation.
In 2017, the contribution of Portugal to the performance of the ope-
years, especially after the crisis and, in Roff’s case, regardless of it – Could the Portuguese State be doing more for innovation?
ration was a relevant contribution, as the performance was higher Cascais is internationally spoken as a case study and it is known that
because the international project of Roff was remarkable in spite of
than the average performance of the group as a whole. Both Roff its commitment is to continue because the theme is never finished, It is always possible to do more. But of what I know, it seems to me
the crisis, or perhaps because of the crisis in Portugal – but if we do
and GFI Portugal performed better than expected and outperfor- which should be clearly seen as a stimulus to be able to continue to that the Portuguese State does some pretty important things. When
as we have done, we will clearly be a good story to tell our sharehol-
med the group’s average, with double-digit growth rates and very inspire. And congratulations to Cascais for what it has achieved so we say the State, we mean the government’s guiding practices of
ders, our colleagues, our superiors, our employees, our customers.
appreciative levels of profitability. far and with the certainty that it will continue to do so quite well. public administration and, to me, although subject to the ideological
options that make it different from the previous government, this go-
Smart Cities are one of GFI’s specializations. What is ne-
As part of the Strategic Council for the digital economy vernment has made it clear that the balance of the public accounts
“GFI Portugal performed cessary for a place to be considered a Smart City?
sector of the Confederation of Portuguese Business (Con- is an asset that should not be questioned, regardless of ideological
better than expected and outperformed ‘Smart City’, as an expression, concerns and is the result, as far as I federação Empresarial de Portugal – CIP), what is your opi- differences. Given that assumption and highlighted the ideological
the group’s average.” know, of efficiency related topics, in its broader sense. Energy effi- nion on the current state of digital thinking in Portugal? differences, one should not forget that the current balance is not
ciency, procedural efficiency, economic efficiency – efficiency. The- Are we at the same level as other European countries, for only recent but fragile.
What are GFI Portugal’s main objectives for the upcoming refore, “Smart” then means maintaining the level of supply, while example?
We need an average growth level higher than what we have had
years? offering more with the same expenditure or spending less.
No. We are not yet at the same level of digital thinking as are other and that is where we are heading, but if that is not assured we put
In the coming years, GFI Portugal intends to continue the path of In France, GFI has a strong presence in cities. It is a very large service countries in Europe. And we are not there because each country has ourselves again in an unbalanced condition to which we do not want
affirmation of the Portuguese geography, both in the local market provider in the municipalities of France, having relevant work with a very distinctive starting point. to return to and it seems clear to me that this government does not20 EC GLOBAL REVIEW | INTERVIEW | Number 5 August 2018 21
want to return to as well. That being said, innovation always has a By virtue of past responsibilities, I am reminded of someone an early age, which feel comfortable with and adapt to the interna- of 50/50) but a general feeling of diversity always works towards a
first moment of investment and, if well done, one should expect its asking me what would be riskier in the area of justice: circulating tional dynamics. And to all that one still adds the experience gained richer environment and, as such, I think today the availability of the
consequent return. the documents about secrecy of justice in electronic format or le- throughout. country to receive and promote young girls in universities and make
aving them on a physical support in naturally fragile archive solu- them feel completely equal in these environments, which I think is
In a short means context, I believe some interesting things are ha- Experience is in itself an asset. There is no doubt that the best school
tions, with debatable access from the point of view of the level of what is happening, will inevitably produce equilibrium results.
ppening. I know of a recent initiative called ‘LabX’, which is a good we have to attend is the school of life. The more experienced will,
restriction to its consultation. And I have absolutely no doubt that
example of how, with few resources, projects and dynamics of colla- from the outset, always be better than the less experienced, if cou-
a good electronic solution for the management of sensible infor- What is your ambition for Portugal in the context of the
boration between organizations at the national and international le- pled with active listening, recurrent learning, and humility.
mation will tend to be stronger than any equivalent good physical digital world?
vel can be encouraged, so as to take cases of transformation, novelty
solution for that same management. Therefore, there is cause for Therefore, I believe that the future will be good, because of the good
cases, different ways of providing services and give them visibility, My ambition for Portugal in this context of the digital world is to
apprehension. Apprehension, perhaps, may be an excessive word: incorporation of the new generation of leaders in top positions of
thereby seeking to replicate them. I am also aware of a recent blo- build a more balanced country and a more balanced country, I
there are reasons for concern. But reasons that stem from the day organizations.
ckchain initiative in the public administration, an experimentation would say, is a country that, in some way, is also more in solidarity
to day of our lives. These are new topics that will raise new dis-
exercise on how to use blockchain in certain public administration with each other.
services. In data management, in the area of electronic identification,
cussions, which will create new professions. This is an interesting “Its turnover is, approximately,
dimension of the current discussion.
this continues the simplification in the relationship between citizens 1.100 million euros but Portugal today has significant imbalances. It still has very significant
socio-economic asymmetries. We speak much of the asymmetry
and companies and the state. Finally, we have come to a point where we no longer discuss what it has a project of growth able to arrive between the coast and the interior, which is a very worrying asym-
Meaningful work is being done, and so it seems to me that the state,
professions will disappear because of these new digital times, but
at 2.000 million euros in 2020.” metry. We must also bear in mind that asymmetries also exist within
we are also discussing which new professions may arise because of
the government and administration have maintained a level of per- large cities: we have rich areas of the cities and we have poor areas of
the new digital professions. And it is unmistakable that many new
formance that, to me, seems good. Could it be better? Yes. It can Of a list comprising 40 future leaders, only five are women. the cities and the distance between one and the other is not that big.
professions will become fundamental to face these new challenges.
always be better. What can be done to achieve gender balance in this res-
We have generational asymmetries. We have an interesting level of
Concern, yes, but serenity when facing the themes that raise that pect?
In Portugal, I think that one of the things that, in general, we do not higher education, although we have to continue to follow it closely
same concern. Serenity in the sense of firmness and determination.
do as well as I believe we could do is a very strong, very visible, very The subject of gender balance is, in my opinion, a subject that tends because we also have a drop-out level in secondary education and
loud collaboration between state and universities. In this respect, we to be a difficult subject, mainly because of sociological reasons. higher education that is worthy of concern. On the other side, older
could be doing more. I also think that there is a challenge that is In 2017, you were considered one of the “40 future business
Personally, the discussion of quotas does not shock me because if I generations have a level of literacy which remains a problem and we
beyond innovation practices that is to instill the spirit of innovation in leaders”, in an initiative from Exame magazine and FAE –
see countries, such as in northern Europe, that, in general, have very have had some oscillations in public policies on how to treat lifelong
the public workforce, but this takes us back to the theme of genera- Fórum de Administradores e Gestores de Empresas (Ad-
high levels of performance, in its broader sense (not only economic learning, especially relevant for the older generations, and that is so-
tional balances and average levels of education and literacy. ministrative and Business Managers Forum). What is your
but in general), and generally have in their structures a level of par- mething we should return to.
opinion on the near future?
ticipation of women well above the level that we normally see in our There are many asymmetries. And the technological and digital re-
“It is always possible to do more...” It was indeed a kind initiative that is good for our egos and it is an country, then one of the ways to try and approach a circumstance volution can make a relevant contribution because, in general, there
initiative in line with what I was referring to when answering previous that we believe works towards and helps the final results of perfor- is the possibility of simplifying some of the initiatives. Technological
I welcome recent public messages from the prime minister with a questions. In several moments, I speak about the new generations mance, is to force its acceleration. and digital health has that very strong element that is the element
view to hire more public employees. A message that I regard as a re- and the relevance they have for the new country. A fortiori, new ge-
As such, I do not think this as any kind of favor, condescension, or a of the deterioration of distance, remote work, the ability to connect
juvenation of the public administration’s structure, while protecting nerations as well as new generations of leaders.
weight of conscience for repairing the past. It seems to me like a very groups, organizations, cities, countries that are so physically distant
the dynamic balance of public accounts. Like any organization, the- To me, it looks like these people with 30, 40 years of age, coming from each other… But that distance is shattered by technological
practical exercise that can be corrected if, perhaps, it does not turn
re is a need to guarantee rejuvenation and that is done, today, with from good national and international schools, with an international connections and this element, in itself, can help fight many of these
out as intended initially.
strong and modern projects of formation with, inevitably, a healthy professional track record in its origin, with a strong command of the imbalances.
dynamic, that should not be seen as a problem, of people entering languages, of professional cultures, with the country as part of a If not by accelerating it, then the process of adjustment is slower
but it will inevitably happen, as a basic matter of tendency, if only Currently there is a strong public discussion in Portugal on the set of
and exiting organizations. world and not closed on itself, these are, objectively, very capable le-
for the fact that, today, we have much more women in universities projects that should be developed to bring people to the interior and
aders. Leaders that I believe could be at organizations from the most
than we had. technology can help immensely. There are some cases of notable
Not long ago, the world was involved in a debate about the advanced economies and societies – Nordic, Anglo-Saxon or Asian –
success, even in the field of technology services and I think that the
right to privacy in connection with the Cambridge Analyti- where they would do well in projects that, in general, would be more Even if we may have some differences that I generally find it difficult
country that continues this path of national and international affir-
ca scandal. Since this was not an isolated case, do you be- significant because of their dimension. But instead they put themsel- to accept that they exist as a result of current recruitment or career
mation as a technologically advanced country, walks a path that will
lieve there are grounds for the general apprehension that ves at the service of our country, of our organizations, of the organi- advancement practices. I think that they do not exist today. I think
also serve these goals of balance and solidarity.
has been felt? zations operating in Portugal… The potential impact in the country they are still the result of practices of up to twenty years ago. In the
is a very significant impact and perhaps it could be interesting, one last twenty years, I find it very difficult to think that there are, from
If concern is justified by the recent issue of the right to privacy, or ra-
day, to study and assess the correlation between performance levels the point of view of professional management, conscious practices
ther the recent Cambridge Analytica theme that raised the question
of organizations and the generational mark of the leaders that serve of negative differentiation of women and, therefore, if we have dif-
of the right to privacy, the management and treatment of data? Of
them, in order to try and derive some kind of message. ferences today, I would say they refer to a country that we are no
course. But we must treat it with the naturalness of the modern times
longer today.
in which we live. Here, again, it is necessary to understand that all However, it is important to underline that these consideration does
this is more or less new. There are actors who will be more attentive, not have the intention of simplifying and reducing the issue to age If we want to accelerate this balance, we may inevitably have to dis-
more informed and the challenge is to ensure that those who do not and simply state that the younger ones are much better than the ol- cuss more administrative practices. But I think it is always a sensitive
live on the frontier of innovation are able to have an active listening der ones. Within the older generations there are people of enormous discussion, or one that raises many sensibilities. What I can say is
and be incorporated to get to the same pace of the former. talent. Those who were able to perceive international dynamics at that, as in everything in life, balance (not the mathematical balance nuno.santos@gfi.ptYou can also read
