Navigating the Global Realignment: Human Rights at the edges.

Episode Description

In this compelling conversation, Dave speaks with Florian Irminger about his journey from high-visibility political leadership to behind-the-scenes human rights advocacy, and what he calls the "Global Realignment" we're all navigating. This episode explores how leaders can pivot from old ways of working to meet unprecedented challenges, why admitting "I don't know" is becoming essential leadership, and how human rights work is at the leading edge of what we all need to learn to thrive in this new world.

Guest Bio: Florian Irminger

Florian Irminger is the founder of Progress & Change Action Lab, an advisory group dedicated to supporting organizations and institutions navigating complex social and political transformations. Following his tenure as Secretary-General of the Swiss Green Party, Florian made the conscious decision to step back from high-visibility political leadership to work behind the scenes, supporting others in creating meaningful change.

Inspired by Robert F. Kennedy's words that "Progress is the nice word we like to use. But change is its motivator. And change has its enemies," Florian has dedicated his work to addressing what he calls the "Global Realignment"—fundamental shifts in our political, social, and human rights landscape.

Recently, Florian launched two significant initiatives: the Human Rights Compass, which brings together organizations beyond traditional branding to collaborate on key recommendations for addressing global challenges, and the Human Rights Index, launched in response to political and social media shifts.

Dave first met Florian when he was working at Human Rights House headquarters in Oslo, and later worked with him as he opened offices in Geneva and Brussels. They've maintained their connection as Florian's career and life have evolved.

 

Episode Timeline & Key Themes

00:00 - 03:00: Opening & Origins

• Introduction and reflection on their 10+ year relationship since meeting at Human Rights House in Oslo
• The memorable story of humor as a mask - early coaching insight that stayed with Florian

03:00 - 07:40: The Personal Pivot

• Florian's decision to step back from his own career to support his wife's diplomatic career
• Moving from 250 emails a day to 10, but each with real value
• The luxury of being able to focus on what's essential

07:40 - 12:54: From Public to Behind-the-Scenes Leadership

• Shifting from getting energy from public attention to finding nourishment in deeper work
• Creating breathing spaces for overwhelmed human rights CEOs
• The loneliness of leadership and the power of authentic connection

12:54 - 21:10: The Global Realignment

• How COVID revealed similarities between different sectors facing uncertainty
• The challenge for human rights CEOs in an increasingly hostile environment
• RFK's insight: "Progress is the nice word we like to use. But change is its motivator. And change has its enemies"
• Why the resistance isn't to human rights values but to the change required

21:10 - 26:48: Working with "Angels" - The NGO Challenge

• Managing organizations full of well-intentioned, highly educated people who see themselves as "doing good"
• The difficulty when "angels" suddenly find themselves labeled as enemies
• The need for inward-looking organizational develop