On 11 March 2026, Building Bridges contributed to a high-level discussion at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on “Breaking the Debt Cycle: Digitalisation and Structural Reforms as Drivers of Growth and Debt Reduction – The Greek Experience.” Moderated by H.E. Ambassador Ioannis Ghikas and Penelope Hawkins of United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the session brought together public and private sector voices to explore how countries can align reform, investment, and resilience in a context of constrained fiscal space. A key takeaway was Greece’s use of structural reforms and renewable energy as drivers of economic transformation.

Drawing on her experience in the renewable energy sector and from her time working with a Greek energy developer, Building Bridges’ Head of Strategic Partnerships, Christine Caralis-Wallier, highlighted how targeted policy frameworks can unlock private capital and support growth while reducing debt. Her intervention illustrated how sustainable finance can move from concept to practice, linking public policy ambition with investable opportunities. She shared how Greece’s trajectory shows that growth, debt reduction, and social protection can be pursued together, avoiding socially disruptive austerity while strengthening long-term resilience.

Looking ahead, the session emphasised that Greece offers practical lessons for countries facing similar challenges, particularly as attention turns to the upcoming WTO 14th Ministerial Conference.

Building Bridges is proud to contribute to these dialogues, supporting local diplomatic efforts and working closely with international organisations. By connecting International Geneva with the private financial centre, the platform continues to foster collaboration and help channel capital towards solutions that deliver both economic and societal value.


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About UNCTAD

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a permanent intergovernmental body established in 1964 as part of the United Nations Secretariat. It promotes the development-friendly integration of developing countries into the global economy and serves as the UN’s focal point for trade, investment, finance, and technology issues in relation to sustainable development. Headquartered at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, it includes nearly all UN member states.