The strain on the global economy caused by high energy prices is easing, but the geopolitical situation continues to create turbulent and disruption-prone energy markets. Inflation remains high, borrowing costs are rising and debt levels are growing - there is no rapid recovery in sight. The temperature of the planet is already 1.2 °C above pre-industrial levels, greenhouse gas emissions are continuing to rise - there is a threat of heat waves and other extreme weather events. Positive trends in access to electricity and clean cooking energy have slowed or even reversed in some countries. Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA) since 2015, takes stock and looks at ways to improve energy security, reduce emissions and keep the energy transition on track.