Addressing a gathering of global leaders, Klaus Schwab, World Economic Forum Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, called on the global community to rise to the moment with “constructive optimism”, urging stakeholders from all sectors – government, business, civil society and academia – to unite in crafting solutions to shared challenges.
“This transition from the Industrial to the Intelligent Age is occurring at an exponential pace, carrying unprecedented risks for humanity as we strive to prepare and adapt for its complexities, he said. “Yet, it also offers significant opportunities to transcend our current challenges and spark a new renaissance – one defined by advancements in knowledge, health, culture and societal welfare.”
Speaking at what he described as “one of the most uncertain geopolitical and geoeconomic moments in generations,” Børge Brende, President and CEO, World Economic Forum, stressed that the world is at a critical inflection point and that 2025 will be a year of enormous consequence.
In these turbulent times, democratic and liberal values serve as a critical signpost for stability and progress, said Karin Keller-Sutter, President of the Swiss Confederation 2025; Federal Councillor; Head of the Federal Department of Finance of Switzerland, Federal Department of Finance of Switzerland, adding that open markets, fair and transparent rules and fiscal discipline are the cornerstones of sustained prosperity. “Only a state with stable institutions can create a sound environment where everyone can realize their potential, and a state must protect this freedom with rules.”
Also reflecting on the changing world order, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, outlined Europe’s plan to adapt to a new era of “harsh geostrategic competition” by increasing its competitiveness, strengthening global partnerships and maintaining its commitment to sustainable development.
The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025, taking place in Davos-Klosters from 20 to 24 January, convenes global leaders under the theme Collaboration for the Intelligent Age. The meeting will foster new partnerships and insights to shape a more sustainable, inclusive future in an era of rapidly advancing technology, focusing on five key areas: Reimagining Growth, Industries in the Intelligent Age, Investing in People, Safeguarding the Planet, and Rebuilding Trust.
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Source: World Economic Forum