Government Leaders Forum

Since 1998, Microsoft Corporation has hosted this conference which brings together the highest level of Government officials, thought leaders, and Microsoft executives to ask about their vision and experiences on the unique role that Information Technology and long term innovation play in the prosperity of the countries - from National Competitiveness and Economic Development to Inclusiveness and Stronger Democracy - with special focus on Public Policies, Regional Development, Preventive Health, Natural Disasters Response, and 21st century skills Development in Education.

This year's Forum will focus on the theme "Making an Impact in the Future of Latin America and the Caribbean" with a superior concentration on areas to make Citizens co-creators in Governance across the region, including (1) Women that are driving new models of Entrepreneurship, International Cooperation or Social Inclusion, (2) the New Role of the Contemporary Cities on Sustainability, Job Creation and Innovation, (3) Open Government Initiatives that are creating an unprecedented level on Transparency, Trust and Public Participation, (4) Educators and Schools evolving with innovative teaching practices and (5) Innovation.

United States' President Bill Clinton, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Mexico's President Felipe Calderon, Colombia's President Alvaro Uribe, Panama's President Ricardo Martinelli, and Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar are among some of the distinguished guests that have attended the event in the past.

In a moment when the region is growing strong, what do we need to do to reduce inequity and support social development, to build stronger democratic and modern institutions and to achieve the capabilities to increase the national competitiveness level? Furthermore, rich debates from exceptional caliber presenters will take place at the Forum - in the form of interactive panels, practical case studies, illustrative best practices and visionary presentations. The Forum is a unique opportunity for peer networking, open dialogues and ad hoc discussion groups.