There was an electric atmosphere at the Signet Library on 24 August, as members of the media and press joined an audience of 250 guests from the law, international politics, business, and academia for Secretary John Kerry’s exceptional address on the Climate Crisis. Many more joined us online by the livestream.

The event launched a new annual lecture series called ‘Scottish Global Dialogues’.  Scottish Global Dialogues is a joint initiative of Beyond Borders Scotland and the WS Society, which will bring a speaker of international standing to the Signet Library each year during the Edinburgh Festivals. The series aims to promote non-partisan debate on international relations and global politics, in the interests of advancing citizenship and cultural exchange. The series is supported by the Scottish Government and Scottish Council on Global Affairs.

Secretary Kerry’s compelling speech took inspiration from figures of the Scottish Enlightenment, reflected in his surroundings at the Signet Library, in his call for cohesive and innovative climate action. Secretary Kerry was introduced by First Minister of Scotland, Humza Yousaf MSP.

A recording is available to watch online here.