The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) began its 5th International Conference 2026 in Mauritius, bringing together experts from India and Mauritius to discuss governance in today’s complex global environment. The event, held over three days, centers on the theme "Strengthening Governance in VUCA World," addressing the challenges of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity faced by organizations worldwide.
The conference includes a study tour of Mauritius’ Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning, offering participants insights into the country’s economic strategies. Key dignitaries such as Jyoti Jeetun, Mauritius’ Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning, and Anurag Srivastava, India’s High Commissioner to Mauritius, attended as chief guests.
Understanding Governance in a VUCA World
Governance refers to the systems and processes by which organizations are directed and controlled. In today’s VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) environment, governance has become more challenging due to rapid technological changes, shifting geopolitical landscapes, and evolving regulatory demands. Company Secretaries play a crucial role in ensuring transparency, ethical leadership, and compliance within corporations.
The ICSI aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to navigate these complexities, emphasizing agile leadership and innovation powered by artificial intelligence. The conference serves as a platform to share best practices and develop frameworks that support sustainable and responsible business conduct globally.
Key Highlights and Topics Discussed
- Geopolitics and risk oversight in boardrooms: Understanding how global power shifts impact corporate strategies.
- Sustainability for inclusive growth: Exploring ways to integrate environmental and social governance into business models.
- India-Mauritius partnership as a strategic gateway to Africa: Strengthening economic and corporate ties between the regions.
- The role of Mauritius’ Registrar Office in corporate governance: Insights into regulatory frameworks supporting business facilitation.
- Responsible AI for future-ready institutions: Discussing ethical use of artificial intelligence in governance.
- Stewardship and value creation: Enhancing long-term shareholder and stakeholder engagement.
- Reimagining shareholder participation: Innovative approaches to increase transparency and involvement.
The conference also featured a special session led by Dovinassy Pillay Naiken, acting director of the Financial Services Unit in Mauritius, focusing on the country’s robust regulatory environment and its role in strengthening the India-Africa economic corridor.
Why This Conference Matters for Global Governance
This gathering highlights the growing importance of cross-border cooperation in corporate governance. Jyoti Jeetun stressed that growth without resilience is fragile, urging boards to move beyond mere compliance toward adaptive strategies that position Company Secretaries as vital advisors. The conference reinforces the commitment to building sustainable value through institutional collaboration.
Anurag Srivastava emphasized the shared cultural and historical ties between India and Mauritius, noting that Company Secretaries are key enablers of investment and international trade. By fostering transparency and accountability, they help create governance structures that support economic growth and strengthen bilateral relations.
Looking ahead, the ICSI announced its next global governance conference scheduled for January 8-9, 2027, in Mumbai, India. This event aims to continue the dialogue on responsible business practices and corporate oversight on a global scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main focus of the ICSI International Conference 2026?
A: The conference focuses on strengthening governance in a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world, addressing challenges faced by organizations globally.
Q: Who are the key participants in the conference?
A: Participants include government officials, corporate leaders, professionals, academicians, and regulators from India, Mauritius, and other countries.
Q: What topics were covered during the conference?
A: Topics included geopolitics and risk oversight, sustainability, India-Mauritius economic partnership, corporate governance frameworks, responsible AI, stewardship, and shareholder engagement.
