In the ever-shifting world of meetings and events, planners are doing more than just coordinating venues and menus—they're steering organizations through complex global headwinds. The latest survey from Northstar Meetings Group and Cvent reveals a sharp uptick in challenges facing the meetings industry, with over 60% of planners reporting disruptions in just the past two months.

What’s shaking up the planning climate?
The economy tops the list, with 65% of planners citing economic uncertainty as the primary obstacle. That’s followed by funding cuts (56%), social policy changes (53%), travel restrictions (51%), staffing reductions (35%), and trade policy concerns (34%).

Even more telling is the growing reluctance from EMEA planners to source U.S.-based events, especially in the wake of U.S. political shifts. While the data is still anecdotal, the sentiment suggests that global perceptions may begin reshaping sourcing decisions sooner than anticipated.

The Good News? Activity Persists.
Despite concerns, the sourcing pipeline remains surprisingly resilient. Activity is holding steady compared to March 2024 and even 2023, with most planners still actively pursuing new opportunities. It's a sign that while the pressure is real, so is the resolve to keep moving forward.

A DEI Commitment Check
One encouraging signal: the industry’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is holding firm. In fact, 23% of planners say they are more committed than ever to incorporating DEI principles into their events. That said, nearly half are also reviewing or rebranding DEI policies—perhaps a response to shifting social and political climates.

We’ve also seen a shift in language and focus. Many organizations are moving from “diversity and inclusion” toward more actionable frameworks centered around opportunity, belonging, and employee experience. This signals a deeper integration of DEI into business strategy—not just checking boxes, but creating environments where people truly thrive.

Planning for the Future? Bring in Peter Zeihan

In times like these, there’s one thing planners and attendees alike crave: clarity. And that’s where Peter Zeihan comes in. As a world-renowned geopolitical strategist and bestselling author, Peter doesn’t just explain the news—he helps your audience see what’s coming next and how to prepare.

In his keynote, “Getting Through the End of the World,” Peter breaks down the collapse of the global systems we've long taken for granted—everything from energy to supply chains to labor—and lays out what organizations must do to adapt.

Here’s one Zeihan tip every meeting planner should take to heart:

“Geography still matters—and those who understand their strategic advantages in a shifting global order will be the ones who thrive.”

With so many variables at play—from trade policies to workforce shortages—Peter’s insights can help your team make smarter decisions and anticipate disruptions before they happen.

Book Peter Zeihan for Your Next Event

If your audience is hungry for insights that cut through the noise, Peter Zeihan delivers with bold clarity, wit, and a fearless take on what the future holds. Whether you’re planning a global leadership summit or an industry-wide convention, his keynote will leave your attendees informed, inspired, and ready to tackle the uncertainty ahead.

👉 Let’s talk about bringing Peter Zeihan to your stage.