Welcome toTheLookout. This month, we explore the escalating threats in cyberspace, the potential of AI to tackle one of humanity’s most urgent challenges, and the enduring impact of visionary leadership.
In Global Affairs, Anne Neuberger outlines the global risks of China’s accelerating cyber capabilities, highlighting why countries like New Zealand need to consider how to protect critical systems and infrastructure. Critical Conversations highlights the promise of AI to improve food security, with a focus on guiding innovation through the insights of frontline practitioners. In Connected Communities, we honour Sir Michael Hill, whose remarkable legacy of creativity, resilience, and generosity continues to inspire. We also look ahead to the Aspen-Otago National Security Forum, bringing together leaders from Australia and New Zealand to discuss the national security challenges shaping our region.
Finally, a reminder - the first round of scholarship applications for our Socrates Seminar close on 31 August. Apply here.
We hope you enjoy this edition.
Ngā mihi - Christine and the Aspen Institute NZ team
Global Affairs
China's Cyber Edge
U.S. intelligence has revealed China is accelerating its push to dominate the cyber domain, developing tools that could disrupt daily life and critical infrastructure worldwide. While the U.S. has been a major target, New Zealand, with similarly networked and privately managed systems, is also exposed. Anne Neuberger, former U.S. Deputy National Security Adviser for Cyber and Emerging Technology and a speaker at the upcoming Aspen-Otago National Security Forum, sets out what governments need to do to strengthen resilience, deter attacks, and navigate the increasing risks of cyber threats here.
As climate and geopolitical pressures rise, food security has become a defining global challenge. GRFC 2025 reports 295 million people faced acute food insecurity in 2024, driven by conflict, climate and economic shocks. AI holds real promise to strengthen food systems and build resilience, particularly if its development is guided by those on the frontlines. Aspen Digital’s Community-Aligned AI Benchmarks project, led by Vivian Schiller (moderator of our upcoming Socrates Seminar), is ensuring that tomorrow’s AI reflects practitioner priorities. Food security professionals are invited to share theirs via a global survey, available here.
Connected Communities
Honouring Sir Michael Hill
We’re deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Michael Hill. The Hill family were among our founding supporters, and we’re grateful for their early belief in our mission. Sir Michael's unconventional rise to success is an inspiring example that the path to making a difference is not always smooth - his resilience, creativity, and courage left a remarkable legacy. His philanthropic work reflected his belief that “we need to be custodians for the area and look after it. We’re only here for a blip, really,” a sentiment he embodied through his support for local initiatives and dedication to nurturing talent and culture. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us. More on Sir Micheal's extraordinary life here.
In partnership with the University of Otago, this forum brings together senior leaders, intelligence experts, and policymakers to address the region’s most urgent security challenges - from espionage and AI, to foreign interference in elections, cybersecurity, and regional instability.
Join the public forum or enquire about attending the private forum to engage directly with those shaping national security.
The Socrates Seminar returns in December with a critical conversation on media, trust, misinformation, and democracy - moderated by Aspen Digital’s Vivian Schiller, a former senior executive at NPR, The New York Times, and Twitter.
Held at Taramea, a purpose-built private meeting space nestled in a serene rural landscape, the seminar runs over 3 days and offers a rare chance to step away from daily demands and engage with leaders from across sectors, to challenge assumptions, explore solutions, and help shape the future of trust.
Master decision-making with EVBDM - a practical, immersive course that equips participants with tools to navigate complexity, reduce risk, and align decisions with both data and values. Led by Aspen NZ Director Neil Jacobstein. Contact us to improve your decision outcomes today.
We’re inviting nominations for CityLab 2026, taking place in Madrid from 27–29 April 2026. CityLab brings together leading urban experts to share bold ideas and practical solutions to the challenges cities face.
Eligible nominees must come from the private, nonprofit, or academic sectors (not the public sector) and have experience that intersects with cities or urban policy. You may nominate a colleague, or yourself. Each nomination requires contact details, a CV, and a short statement on why the nominee would be a strong candidate. Please note that travel and accommodation are not covered.
Nominations close Friday, 19 September. Submit your nomination here.
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