The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, is underway, bringing together top leaders, CEOs, and innovators from around the globe. This year, notable figures like J.P. Morgan’s Jamie Dimon, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Nvidia’s Jensen Huang are set to attend. U.S. President Donald Trump also makes a return, leading the largest U.S. delegation in WEF history.
Organizers are anticipating a high turnout, with nearly 3,000 leaders across various sectors expected. Yet, not everyone is attending. The Danish government, for instance, has decided to skip the event amid political tensions surrounding Greenland. Similarly, Chinese President Xi Jinping and leaders from Brazil and India will also be absent, which is notable given the WEF’s global focus.
A Shift in Leadership
The WEF’s president, Børge Brende, highlighted that six out of seven G7 nations will send representatives this year, a shift from previous years where attendance was less robust. For instance, only German Chancellor Olaf Scholz attended in 2025. This year, key European leaders are making a point to be there, indicating a renewed emphasis on global cooperation.
Themes and Topics of Interest
The theme for this year’s summit is “A Spirit of Dialogue.” It will address major issues like geopolitical tensions, advancements in artificial intelligence, and climate change. Eric Kutcher from McKinsey & Company noted that attendance carries more weight than the specific topics discussed, emphasizing the significance of who is present in these pivotal conversations.
Political Dynamics at Play
Markets are closely watching discussions around U.S.-Europe relations, especially following Trump’s controversial tariffs linked to Greenland. Similarly, political unrest in Venezuela and potential developments involving Iran are on the radar for attendees.
While leaders like Argentine President Javier Milei and Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto bring prominence, the absence of significant global figures like Xi and Brazil’s Lula da Silva raises eyebrows. However, a robust Chinese delegation will still participate, including Vice Premier He Lifeng, who will address the forum.
Public Perception and Criticism
Davos has been criticized for being elitist and disconnected from everyday people. Nigel Farage, a former Davos critic, is attending this year, reflecting the complex relationship between populist sentiments and global economic platforms. Scholars like Jan Aart Scholte note that while global capital remains influential, public perception about such gatherings continues to evolve.
In summary, the WEF is a key event for discussing global challenges and forging international partnerships. The mix of high-profile attendees and notable absences showcases the shifting dynamics of global leadership and public sentiment towards elite forums. As discussions unfold, the impact of these gatherings on future policies and cooperation will be closely scrutinized.
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