The energy industry is facing ever greater risks in the wake of the prolonged Great Economic Contraction and the resulting uncertainty over global markets, energy demand — and indeed pressures on the very stability of the international system. Economic imperative is giving rise to new political and social stresses — and a sense of urgency and a narrowing of options. At the same time, great changes are afoot within the energy industry itself, with new boundaries being drawn among companies, state-owned enterprises, regulators, and civil society. New technologies are opening highly prospective frontiers for energy — from unconventional oil and gas to conventional deep waters to renewable energy. Surprising regions are emerging as energy "hot spots." The energy industry has opportunity to be perceived as a critical part of the solution to economic growth, jobs and global security. CERAWeek 2012 will focus on energy's new role in rebuilding the global economy and providing stability in a volatile time for the international political order. What are the future leadership challenges, opportunities and responsibilities before us?