This week marked the opening of the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Klaus Schwab, the founder and chairman, kicked off the event with a clear message: we need to work together for a better future. He called this vision “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.”
Schwab highlighted that we are quickly moving from the Industrial Age to what he calls the Intelligent Age. This shift brings both risks and opportunities. He emphasized that while we face many challenges, we also have a chance to create a new renaissance in knowledge, health, and societal welfare.
In a call for “constructive optimism,” Schwab urged global leaders from all fields—government, business, academia, and civil society—to collaborate on shared issues. He believes that by fostering this optimistic spirit, we can help every individual reach their full potential in the new age.
While Schwab spoke of unity and cooperation, not everyone shared his views. President Donald Trump, addressing the crowd, shifted the tone with his “America First” stance and criticized the European Union. His speech started with laughter but quickly turned serious, showcasing his signature style even in a room full of world leaders.
Despite the mixed reactions, key topics continued to emerge from the discussions at Davos. The focus included the importance of digital trust, the need for green growth, and the downsides of protectionism on the global economy.