Foreign Secretary David Miliband predicted that 'civilian surge' will reshape global politics as over 700 people debated ideas to change the world at the Fabian's 2008 new year conference.

Read the full agenda for the day and online reports from each of the debates here.

David Miliband told the Fabian New Year Conference, 'Change the World', that Britain must become a 'global hub' to deal with fundamental shifts in power from west to east, and from governments to civilians.

Over 700 delegates debated with 50 leading speakers - on issues including how George Bush's departure could lead to change in global politics, what the rise of Asia means, Britain's role in Europe and the lessons of Iraq.

Key issues under the spotlight were how democracies fight terrorism, a fair deal on climate change, pressure for a just Middle East peace, migration and prospects for a diplomatic resolution on Iran.

Ed Miliband chaired two sessions at the conference, seeking delegates' ideas for the next Labour party manifesto. The final 'one idea to change the world' plenary debate saw delegates back the proposal from Anne Campbell to support a 'poppies for medicine' campaign to licence poppy production in Afghanistan, to deal with a worldwide morphine shortage and improve local livelihoods; and for a European civil volunteering exchange project, proposed by Dan Whittle.

To discuss this event or further Fabian activities on international affairs, contact Tim Gore.

The biggest UK public conference on global politics, held in association with media partners:

and with international partners:  

The Fabian Society thanks all of our partners, speakers and members for their support in making the event possible.

Read more about the Fabian New Year Conference 2008.

Part of our Global Agenda theme