WEF Davos, Switzerland 2025

World Economic Forum Kicks Off in Davos: Leaders, Agendas, and Controversies

DAVOS, Switzerland — The annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) begins today, drawing global leaders, business executives, and thought leaders to the alpine town of Davos. Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, climate challenges, and ongoing geopolitical tensions, the summit seeks to address critical global issues under the banner of “Collaborative Action for a Sustainable Future.”

Key Attendees and Absences

This year’s WEF meeting boasts a roster of influential participants, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will represent the United States, as President Joe Biden opted not to attend due to domestic priorities.

Notably absent are Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Xi’s absence is attributed to domestic economic concerns, while Putin remains internationally isolated due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa are also among the notable no-shows, citing pressing domestic issues.

The Official Agenda

The WEF’s 2025 agenda focuses on themes such as:

• Advancing green energy transitions and achieving climate goals.
• Addressing economic inequality and fostering inclusive growth.
• Strengthening supply chain resilience and global trade systems.
• Leveraging AI and technology for sustainable innovation.
• Promoting global health equity and pandemic preparedness.

Klaus Schwab, the WEF’s founder and executive chairman, emphasized the need for “unprecedented collaboration” to tackle interconnected global challenges. “We must move beyond short-term interests to create long-term value for society,” Schwab stated in his opening remarks.

Controversy and Public Perception

While the WEF presents itself as a platform for positive change, it continues to grapple with widespread criticism and mistrust. Conspiracy theories and skepticism surrounding the organization have intensified in recent years, fueled by claims of a “secret agenda” aimed at global domination. Among the most controversial topics are references to “Agenda 21” and the so-called “Great Reset.”

Agenda 21 Misconceptions: Originating from a 1992 United Nations initiative for sustainable development, Agenda 21 has been mischaracterized by critics as a blueprint for eroding national sovereignty. The WEF has repeatedly denied any direct connection to Agenda 21.

The Great Reset: Launched in 2020 as a post-pandemic recovery framework, the “Great Reset” initiative calls for rethinking capitalism to address systemic inequalities and climate change. However, detractors claim it represents an overreach of corporate and elite influence over democratic systems.

Critics also point to the forum’s exclusivity, high membership fees, and the perceived disconnect between its lofty goals and the private jets used by attendees. These optics have fueled accusations that the WEF prioritizes elite interests over genuine global progress.

The Road Ahead

As the WEF kicks off its 2025 meeting, its ability to foster meaningful dialogue and action remains under scrutiny. Supporters argue that the forum provides an invaluable space for cooperation on pressing global issues. However, addressing public mistrust and demonstrating tangible outcomes will be critical for the WEF to counter its critics and maintain relevance in an increasingly polarized world.

The summit’s outcomes, including any major announcements or agreements, will be closely watched in the coming days.

WEF 2025-

https://www.weforum.org/meetings/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2025