The World Economic Forum (WEF) kicked off this January 20, 2025, under the theme "Cooperation for the Smart Age". Leaders from more than 130 countries have gathered in Davos, Switzerland, to tackle pressing global challenges affecting economies worldwide. The event will continue until January 24, drawing approximately 3,000 notable figures from various sectors, including over 350 government representatives and more than 1,600 business leaders.
This year's forum seeks to address pressing issues such as geopolitical shocks, growth stimulation to improve living standards, and managing equitable energy transitions. Notable attendees include the newly elected President of the United States, Donald Trump, highlighting the forum's geopolitical importance.
One of the pivotal themes of this year's discussions revolves around the concept of reimagining economic growth. Leaders will explore new sources of growth within the new global economy, emphasizing innovative partnerships and collaborative solutions among stakeholders. The second theme focuses on rebuilding trust, highlighting new methods for international solutions within communities.
Environmental sustainability is also on the agenda, with discussions centered on how to stimulate action concerning energy, climate, and nature through innovative partnerships, financing, and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies. A key factor mentioned is the anticipated surge in electricity demand, which could jump to 1,000 terawatt-hours by 2026, driven largely by advancements such as artificial intelligence and automation.
“The event attracts around 3,000 prominent figures to discuss pivotal issues including the economy, technology, and the environment,” said the World Economic Forum. This attention to energy reveals just how transformative technology can be, offering vast opportunities, yet also imposing substantial demands on global energy resources.
The fourth theme at the forum will focus on investing in people, addressing how both public and private sectors can support human capital development to create resilient and modern communities. Last but not least, the forum will talk about industries flourishing within the smart age, debating how business leaders can balance short-term goals against long-term necessities for industry transformation.
The need for leaders to adapt to major geoeconomic and technological shifts is emphasized, indicating the deep and structural changes present within global economies. “The forum focuses on five interconnected themes relevant to shaping the future of global economies,” reported Trends Center, serving as the backbone for discussions on overcoming current economic challenges.
This year, the Trends Center is returning to the WEF with diverse scientific and knowledge-based initiatives. The center aims to strengthen its role as a think tank through activities like launching research studies on renewable energy, tackling financing challenges and opportunities for growth.
By participating actively, the Trends Center showcases its commitment to the forum's motto: "Anticipate the Future Through Knowledge,” contributing valuable insights toward the global discourse.
The emphasis on these discussions is clear: collaboration, innovation, and awareness of global dynamics are central to developing future strategies for sustainability and growth. With insight from this eminent forum, global leaders have the ability to craft informed, effective solutions addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by economies worldwide.