Los Angeles, May 5, 2025 (Virag Vida) — The 28th annual Milken Institute Global Conference kicked off Monday morning at the Beverly Hilton with unmistakable momentum. Over the next three days, some of the world’s most influential minds will gather for ambitious discussions and forward-thinking solutions — and Day One set the bar high.
The morning began with an opening keynote by former First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, titled “A Healthier Tomorrow.” Dr. Biden highlighted the gap in women’s health research by pointing to heart disease— the leading cause of death for both men and women worldwide. She emphasized that much of the treatment available for women is still based on studies primarily conducted on men. “Men, they suffer because of the large artery. And women, it’s a small vessel disease. They didn’t know there were these differences,” Biden says. “That’s why women don’t feel this crushing pain when you have a heart attack. We feel it like nausea or different symptoms.”
The focus then shifted to Ukraine’s future in a panel that combined sharp economic insight with heartfelt appeals for unity. Wladimir Klitschko — former heavyweight boxing champion, tireless advocate for Ukraine, and brother of Kyiv’s mayor — delivered a powerful message on post-war reconstruction. “Investing in Ukraine is a win-win,” he said, arguing that rebuilding is both a humanitarian obligation and an economic opportunity. He stressed the essential role of universities, science, and culture in building a sustainable, forward-looking society. For Klitschko, strategic partnerships must go beyond roads and buildings — they must invest in the minds and spirits of the next generation.
Joining him on stage were prominent global voices including 2022 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and human rights lawyer Oleksandra Matviichuk; Philip Bennett, senior advisor to the President; Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Xavier Bettel; and Yuriy Vitrenko, former CEO of Naftogaz and founder of AYA Capital. The panel explored how Ukraine can attract long-term international investment, modernize its economic framework, and pursue cultural and psychological recovery without compromising its sovereignty. In a post-panel interview, Klitschko also expressed appreciation for civil society support from neighboring countries — notably Hungary — and noted the contrast between political tension and grassroots solidarity.
Elsewhere at the conference, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair sat down with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nicholas Kristof for a wide-ranging conversation. They tackled the growing trend of physical and political border-building in response to global migration. Blair emphasized that when managed properly, immigration can be a powerful force for good. “If you are coming to a country, come in lawfully, or dont come in” – he also added that „Controlled immigration could be a good thing.” Their dialogue also covered the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, the shifting global order, the rise of artificial intelligence, and the persistence of global inequality. Blair’s remarks underscored the need for collaborative leadership and long-term thinking that rises above short-term political cycles.
By early afternoon, the atmosphere became more personal and emotional as actor and activist Jason Sudeikis — best known for his role as Ted Lasso — took the stage. In a moving session titled “Believe: The Power of Positivity and Kindness,” Sudeikis used his trademark humor and sincerity to speak about the mental health struggles of modern life. He opened up about his own challenges, including panic attacks, and reflected on the importance of empathy, optimism, and storytelling as tools for healing.
As the weeklong conference continues, one thing is clear: this year’s Milken Institute Global Conference is not just about solving the world’s toughest problems — it’s about reimagining a more resilient, compassionate, and hopeful future.
