The World Economic Forum in Davos is one of the most followed and influential international events in the fields of business, economics, and politics. Every year, it brings together global leaders, business executives, intellectuals, civil society representatives, and experts from various fields to discuss major global economic, political, and social issues. This gathering has become a crucial platform for the exchange of ideas, the formulation of collective strategies, and the search for solutions to global challenges.
In an era marked by growing global challenges like recurring economic crises, the severity of climate change, rising social inequalities, and geopolitical tensions disrupting international stability, international forums like Davos are more important than ever. These spaces for dialogue allow nations, businesses, and other international actors to coordinate their efforts to find common solutions. The Davos forum, in particular, emphasizes multilateral cooperation and the role of the private sector in addressing global issues, highlighting the importance of shared global leadership.
However, the actual impact of the Davos forum on global economic policies remains a subject of debate. Although this forum is a leading venue for discussions on major economic directions, questions persist about the effectiveness of these meetings. Do the decisions and recommendations emerging from Davos truly translate into concrete actions and effective policies on a global scale? Do the exchanges between economic leaders, political figures, and social actors lead to real reforms, or do they merely serve to maintain the status quo without resolving the underlying structural issues?
In this study, we examine the actual role of the World Economic Forum in Davos in shaping global economic policies. What are the concrete impacts of its meetings on international economic decisions and cooperation between nations? How can Davos, despite its numerous exchanges, address the challenges of a constantly evolving global economy, marked by recurring crises and geopolitical tensions? This reflection will be structured around several key areas. First, we will explore the importance of international forums in the formulation of global economic policies. Next, we will analyze the origins and evolution of the World Economic Forum in Davos, as well as its specific contributions to the global economy. We will also highlight the key issues that will be addressed in the next edition of the forum. Finally, we will discuss the challenges Davos faces in implementing its recommendations while offering a perspective on its future role in a world in constant transformation.
1. The Importance of International Forums in Shaping Global Economic Policies
1.1. Coordination of Global Economic Policies in Times of Crisis
International forums serve as essential platforms for coordinating global economic policies, especially during major crises. Among these forums, the G20, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank have demonstrated their ability to unite nations in addressing global economic challenges.
- The 2008 Global Financial Crisis:
During the 2008 crisis, the G20 coordinated a swift response by mobilizing fiscal stimulus plans worth approximately $2 trillion globally, equivalent to about 2% of global GDP. These measures included tax cuts, massive public investments, and bailout programs for banks. As a result, the global economic contraction was limited to -0.1% in 2009, instead of the much more pessimistic initial forecasts.[1]
- Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic:
In 2020, the pandemic caused a 3.1% contraction in global GDP.[2] The G20 launched the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI) for low-income countries, deferring payments totaling over $12.9 billion for 46 beneficiary countries, allowing them to focus their resources on social spending and public health.[3] Simultaneously, the IMF mobilized its Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI), providing $150 billion to 87 countries, primarily in Africa and Latin America.
- Monetary and Financial Coordination:
International forums, such as the Financial Stability Board (FSB), played a crucial role in stabilizing financial markets and mitigating crisis impacts. For instance, in 2020, central banks from major economies coordinated interest rate cuts and asset purchase programs, injecting over $9 trillion into global markets to prevent a liquidity crisis.[4]
1.2. Promoting Sustainable Development and Structural Reforms
Beyond crisis management, international forums act as catalysts for implementing long-term goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), combating climate change, and reducing global inequalities.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
Adopted in 2015 by 193 countries, the SDGs aim to eradicate poverty and promote sustainable development by 2030. The United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) monitors these goals. However, financing remains a significant challenge. According to the UN, there is an annual funding gap of $2.5 trillion to achieve the SDGs in developing countries.[5]
- Paris Climate Agreement (2015):
This international forum saw 190 countries commit to limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Despite commitments, climate financing reached only $83.3 billion in 2020, falling short of the annual target of $100 billion.[6] For example, the European Union allocated a budget of €1.8 trillion under its Green Deal, aiming to reduce net emissions by 55% by 2030.[7]
- Structural Reforms for Inclusive Growth:
The World Economic Forum (WEF) serves as an incubator for structural reform ideas. At its 2023 Davos Summit, discussions focused on artificial intelligence, reducing inequalities, and the energy transition. For instance, the WEF has supported initiatives like the Reskilling Revolution Partnership, aiming to train 1 billion workers by 2030 for digital and green economies.[8]
- Initiatives for Low-Income Countries:
International forums do not limit their focus to major economies. The World Bank and the IMF provide specific programs to strengthen institutions in developing countries. In 2020, the WTO reported that over 14,000 officials from these nations benefited from training programs in international trade, enhancing their integration into global value chains.
2. Historical Context of the World Economic Forum
2.1. Origins and Transformation of a European Initiative into a Global Platform
The World Economic Forum (WEF) was founded in 1971 by Klaus Schwab, a professor of business administration at the University of Geneva. Initially named the “European Management Forum,” its aim was to provide European business leaders with a platform to discuss management strategies and governance principles inspired by the American model. Schwab initiated this endeavor to address the management challenges faced by European companies in the context of post-World War II economic reconstruction and the rise of market economies. This paradigm shift led to the emergence of a new model of international collaboration among business leaders.[9]
Initially, discussions at Davos focused primarily on European economic and industrial issues. However, Schwab quickly expanded the forum’s scope to include global issues related to the world economic order. The collapse of the Bretton Woods system and the first oil crisis in the 1970s acted as catalysts, prompting the forum to incorporate discussions on global economic transitions. According to the World Economic Forum,[10] the 1970s marked a pivotal stage of diversification, as political leaders were invited for the first time, laying the foundation for the forum’s internationalization.
The forum’s name was changed to the World Economic Forum in 1987, marking a significant milestone in its transformation from a European initiative into a global platform. This shift was largely driven by the rise of globalization, which encouraged the forum to welcome leaders not only from Europe but also from the United States, Asia, and other regions. The name change coincided with the end of the Cold War and the opening of new spaces for dialogue between major economic powers. The forum thus played a leading role in facilitating international relations during a time of profound geopolitical changes. According to Slaughter,[11] Davos gradually evolved into a strategic crossroads for discussions not only on business but also on global political, geopolitical, and economic issues.
During the 1990s, the forum became a central venue for discussions on global economic regulation following the Asian financial crisis and financial market turbulence. This dynamic strengthened the forum’s global presence, making Davos an essential meeting place for governments, businesses, NGOs, and experts from various fields. Today, Davos remains a central platform for addressing major global challenges, including digital transformation, climate change, and social inequalities, as demonstrated by current forum initiatives such as the “Great Reset,” launched in 2020 by Schwab to restructure economic and social systems in response to global crises.[12]
2.2. Davos: A Space for Dialogue on Global Challenges
The World Economic Forum in Davos has become a key venue where political leaders, business executives, and experts converge to address major global challenges. Each year, discussions in Davos cover topics ranging from climate change to digital transformation and social inequality. This platform has evolved into one of the leading spaces for reflecting on the economic, social, and environmental future of the planet, attracting diverse voices to find collective solutions to global problems. In 2023, the World Economic Forum[13] published its Future of Jobs Report, highlighting the impact of digital transformation on global jobs, the need to adapt workers’ skills, and the upcoming changes in the labor market. This report fueled discussions in Davos on how governments and businesses can collaborate to address these challenges.
The role of Davos goes beyond being a forum for discussing economic issues. It is also a hub for initiatives on sustainability and social inclusion. For example, recent discussions have focused on climate change, with strong commitments to achieving carbon neutrality. The OECD (2022), in its report on the Global Outlook on Climate Finance, emphasized the importance of public and private sector engagement in financing projects that contribute to the transition toward a green economy. These discussions resonate with global initiatives such as COP21 or COP26, yet Davos remains a unique space where global decision-makers meet regularly to find innovative solutions.
One of the major challenges discussed at Davos has been sustainability and the central role of businesses in this transformation. In this context, Klaus Schwab launched the “Great Reset” initiative in 2020, which aims to reimagine the global economy to foster more inclusive and environmentally sustainable growth. In his book COVID-19: The Great Reset,[14] Schwab highlights the need to rethink economic models and promote stakeholder capitalism, which considers not only profits but also the social and environmental impacts of businesses. This vision is shared by many leaders attending Davos, who view the global health crisis as having exposed structural weaknesses in the global economy.
Additionally, experts like Jeffrey Sachs[15] in The Age of Sustainable Development emphasize that addressing global challenges requires integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into global economic policies. Davos serves as a privileged venue for discussing these SDGs and for designing collective strategies aimed at achieving ambitious goals related to reducing inequalities and protecting the environment.
Davos is not merely a forum for discussing global problems but an active space for dialogue where solutions can emerge through collaboration between the public and private sectors. As such, the forum represents a crucial pillar of global governance, hosting debates that shape the future of economic and social policies.
3. What is the main contribution of the World Economic Forum to the global economy?
3.1. Facilitation of Public-Private Dialogue:
The World Economic Forum in Davos is recognized as a vital platform for dialogue between governments, the private sector, international organizations, and civil society. This dialogue is especially relevant in addressing complex global challenges such as climate change, food security, and pandemics. For example, the Climate Action Partnership (2021), initiated at Davos, enabled governments and over 400 companies to coordinate actions aimed at reducing carbon emissions. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Risk Report,[16] 75% of leaders believe Davos provides a unique space for establishing public-private partnerships that can mitigate systemic risks.
3.2. Promotion of International Cooperation:
Davos plays a key role in promoting international cooperation by bringing together actors from different nations to address global issues. These are not merely theoretical discussions but also lead to concrete initiatives. A notable example is the push for the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015. While the agreement was finalized at COP21, preliminary discussions on financial mechanisms to support developing countries largely benefited from the meetings held at Davos.[17] Additionally, the Global Vaccine Alliance (GAVI), launched at the forum in 2000, is a prime example of the impact of Davos. This public-private partnership has vaccinated over 900 million children in developing countries, reducing child mortality from preventable diseases.[18]
3.3. Encouragement of Technological Innovation:
The World Economic Forum in Davos highlights technological innovation as a key lever for economic growth and societal transformation. The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, established in 2017, is a flagship example of this vision. This center promotes the responsible use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and biotechnology. Between 2017 and 2022, projects related to the Fourth Industrial Revolution mobilized approximately $2.5 billion in public and private investments.[19] Davos also helps raise awareness among policymakers about the importance of technology regulation. For example, discussions on cryptocurrencies at Davos 2022 influenced regulations in the European Union (MiCA) and the United States.
3.4. Promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
Davos has also made a significant contribution to integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the strategies of businesses and governments. In 2023, 85% of multinational companies present at the forum reported having revised their internal policies to align their objectives with the SDGs (UNDP, 2022). A concrete example is the 1t.org initiative (Trillion Trees Initiative), which aims to restore, protect, and plant one trillion trees by 2030 to combat climate change. Since its launch in 2020, this initiative has raised $10 billion and restored 59 million hectares of forests (Schwab, 2021). Furthermore, according to the World Economic Forum (2023), member companies that participated in Davos reduced their carbon emissions by an average of 18% between 2018 and 2022, thanks to the commitments made during the discussions.
3.5. Response to Global Crises
Finally, Davos plays a crucial role in international mobilization in response to global crises. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the WEF facilitated coordination between pharmaceutical companies, governments, and international organizations to accelerate vaccine distribution. The COVID Action Platform, initiated in 2020, helped raise over $7 billion to support the production and distribution of vaccines in developing countries.[20] In the face of the war in Ukraine in 2022, Davos served as a platform to discuss economic impacts and coordinate humanitarian responses. For instance, financial commitments exceeding $2 billion were announced during the special session dedicated to the Ukrainian crisis.[21]
4. Key Issues to be Addressed at the Davos Forum in 2025
4.1. Managing Geopolitical Shocks and Global Cooperation:
Geopolitical shocks profoundly impact the global economy, influencing trade flows, foreign investments, supply chains, and commodity prices. For example, the war in Ukraine disrupted global markets, driving up energy and food prices, destabilizing global supply chains, and exacerbating tensions in financial markets. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF, 2022), the conflict in Ukraine contributed to a 30% increase in global energy prices in 2022, destabilizing many economies, particularly in Europe, which depends heavily on Russian gas and oil supplies.
Moreover, trade tensions among major economic powers, particularly between the United States and China, have heightened global economic uncertainty, leading to a realignment of global value chains. The World Trade Organization[22] reports that global trade volumes decreased by 5.5% in 2023 due to rising protectionist policies and trade restrictions, primarily between the United States, China, and other developing countries.
In response to these geopolitical challenges, stronger global cooperation is essential to maintain economic stability and promote inclusive development. The World Economic Forum[23] emphasizes that the Ukraine crisis has underscored the need for enhanced international cooperation, not only to resolve military conflicts but also to find global solutions to the economic crises they generate.
The United Nations, for instance, has called for collective action to address the global food crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine, which disrupted grain and wheat exports. According to the World Food Programme (WFP),[24] nearly 345 million people worldwide faced hunger in 2023, a 25% increase compared to the previous year, largely due to the war in Ukraine and global trade tensions. The WFP has urged governments, international institutions, and the private sector to collaborate in addressing this crisis.
4.2. Reactivating Global Economic Growth:
Global economic growth has been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, causing a global recession in 2020 and a sharp decline in global GDP. According to the International Monetary Fund,[25] global GDP contracted by 3.5% in 2020, a deeper decline than during the 2008 financial crisis. While recovery began in 2021, global growth in 2022 remained modest, with GDP growth projected at only 3.2% for 2023, well below pre-pandemic levels.
Geopolitical conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, and rising commodity prices, particularly for energy and food, have compounded the situation. In 2023, the United Nations estimated that 60% of global economies experienced low growth or stagnation due to geopolitical tensions and disrupted supply chains.
In 2023, the World Bank Group estimated that global infrastructure investment needs amounted to approximately $15 trillion to support global economies, enhance resilience to climate shocks, and meet the needs of growing populations. At Davos, discussions will focus on mobilizing public and private financing to invest in sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
The energy transition is another crucial lever for sustainable global growth. The International Renewable Energy Agency[26] estimates that to meet global climate goals, renewable energy investments need to double by 2030, reaching $4 trillion annually. The growth of green energy sectors, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen technologies, will be critical to reactivating the economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
4.3. A Just and Inclusive Energy Transition:
The energy transition is a critical topic in the World Economic Forum’s 2025 discussions. The global emission reduction targets outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement remain a top priority for world leaders. However, this transition must go beyond technological or industrial transformation to ensure inclusivity and equity. While renewable energies are essential to combating climate change, their adoption could widen disparities between countries and within societies. The World Economic Forum[27] notes that while the energy transition is vital for environmental sustainability, it must be implemented to avoid exacerbating economic gaps between developed and developing nations or across different social groups.
A major challenge in the global energy transition is access to green technologies and the funding needed to support renewable energy infrastructure in developing countries. The UNDP (2022)[28] highlights that despite commitments made during COP26 to support vulnerable nations, financial flows for the energy transition remain inadequate. In 2023, global renewable energy investments reached $495 billion, but less than 2% of these funds were allocated to low-income countries, further widening the gap in access to sustainable technologies (World Economic Forum, 2023).
The UNDP (2022) reports that while global funding mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund, established during COP15, have been created, they have not yet met their targets. In 2023, the Green Climate Fund allocated only $30 billion to developing countries, far short of the initial goal of $100 billion annually. This insufficient funding is a significant obstacle for low-income countries that lack the resources to deploy sustainable energy solutions despite the growing demand for renewable energy.
Public-private partnerships are often presented as a solution to bridge this gap. According to the World Economic Forum (2023), collaboration between governments and the private sector could be a vital lever for boosting investments in green infrastructure. Financing from private markets, particularly green funds and climate bonds, could stimulate a more equitable transition, but these mechanisms require a stable political and economic environment and appropriate incentives to attract investors.
4.4. Adoption and Regulation of Emerging Technologies:
Emerging technologies hold considerable potential for economic growth. According to a report by the McKinsey Global Institute,[29] AI could contribute $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030, representing approximately 1.2% annual global GDP growth. This growth would be driven by productivity gains across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. For instance, the use of AI in manufacturing could improve supply chain efficiency by 20–30%, according to the World Economic Forum (2023).
The adoption of technologies such as blockchain could also transform the global economy by providing transparent and secure solutions for various transactions. The global blockchain technology market is projected to reach $23.3 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 67%.[30]
However, the rapid deployment of these technologies poses significant challenges, particularly in emerging economies with less developed infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. The UNCTAD[31] notes that while developing countries are beginning to adopt AI and blockchain technologies, only 10% have implemented national strategies for their regulation.
The regulation of emerging technologies remains a significant challenge for governments and global regulators. Technologies like AI and blockchain, for instance, have potentially disruptive impacts on employment, privacy, and security. According to the OECD,[32] AI could lead to the elimination of 14 million jobs in developed countries by 2030, but it could also create up to 18 million new jobs in high-tech sectors. This dual impact on employment requires careful regulation to maximize benefits while minimizing social and economic risks.
5. What are the challenges faced by the Davos forum and how to activate its results every year?
5.1. The challenges faced by the Davos forum:
The World Economic Forum in Davos, while being one of the most influential platforms for discussions on global issues, faces several structural and organizational challenges that complicate the implementation of its decisions. One of the main obstacles is moving from debate to concrete action. A 2023 study by McKinsey & Company revealed that only 40% of the initiatives launched at Davos showed significant results in the medium term, indicating that many commitments made are not followed by tangible outcomes. This challenge arises from the slow decision-making processes, the complexity of bureaucratic structures, and the lack of rigorous monitoring mechanisms. The recommendations from Davos often require deep reforms, but they encounter divergent interests among key stakeholders, particularly between developed and developing countries.
Another major challenge lies in the diversity of stakeholders present at Davos. The Forum brings together heads of state, business leaders, NGO representatives, and experts from various disciplines. However, their priorities are sometimes incompatible. Developing countries often prioritize issues such as poverty reduction and access to resources, while developed countries focus on sustainability and climate change. This divergence of interests has delayed several key commitments, including those related to the energy transition. According to the UN,[33] only 50% of the climate commitments made at Davos 2021 were met in the following years, largely due to geopolitical and economic divergences between nations.
5.2. How to activate its results every year:
For the discussions at Davos to have a lasting impact, it is essential to effectively activate the results and commitments made during the event. One of the most effective ways to activate results is by establishing transparent monitoring and governance mechanisms.[34] The decisions made at Davos should be accompanied by rigorous monitoring structures to measure progress over time. A good practice in this area is the Global Infrastructure Facility initiative launched at Davos in 2015, which allowed the monitoring and funding of infrastructure projects in developing countries. Regular monitoring and evaluation of these projects helped increase funding and ensure their success.
At the same time, it is crucial to align the priorities of public and private actors to facilitate the implementation of decisions. For example, businesses should be encouraged to invest in long-term projects that address global challenges such as climate change, while benefiting from tax incentives and a stable legal framework.[35] Financing is another pillar of result activation. The commitments made at Davos cannot be implemented without adequate financial resources. In 2023, the Global Green Bond Market[36] showed that with a record $500 billion in green bonds, it is possible to raise funds for large-scale sustainable projects. However, this financing remains insufficient compared to global needs, and efforts must be intensified to mobilize more resources.
Moreover, strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors is crucial. The Forum should encourage stronger and more inclusive partnerships, particularly by promoting the participation of young people, NGOs, and civil society representatives. This would not only diversify perspectives but also better address citizens’ concerns. Finally, to ensure that the results of Davos are realized each year, a collaborative and inclusive governance approach is essential. Such governance would facilitate the rapid adoption of initiatives and ensure their ongoing monitoring.
6. Analytical Vision of the Future of the World Economic Forum in Davos in a World Filled With Challenges
The World Economic Forum in Davos is a key event where political leaders, business executives, experts, and intellectuals gather to discuss major global economic, social, and environmental issues. In a context where economic, social, and environmental crises are multiplying, the vision for the future of the Forum must evolve to address contemporary challenges.
6.1. Adapting to a complex global economic environment
Since its creation in 1971, the World Economic Forum in Davos has always been a privileged platform for addressing major global economic issues. However, in light of the rapid evolution of the geopolitical landscape and global economic dynamics, its role is now being redefined. Indeed, according to a study by the IMF,[37] global economic growth is facing a range of interconnected risks, from growing trade tensions between major economic powers to the devastating effects of climate change, not to mention the significant impact of disruptive technologies, which are redefining professions and disrupting traditional labor markets. In this context, the Forum must adapt by focusing on multilateral cooperation to address these global challenges, as well as seeking solutions to the economic imbalances that fuel social and geopolitical tensions. Particular attention must be given to the increasing economic inequalities, which today constitute a major source of instability at the global level. As Joseph E. Stiglitz[38] highlights, these growing inequalities, particularly between developed and developing countries, but also within nations themselves, are not only a barrier to sustainable economic growth but also exacerbate social and political tensions. In 2022, Oxfam’s report revealed that the top 1% of the wealthiest individuals now hold nearly 40% of global wealth, a concentration of wealth that threatens social cohesion and long-term economic stability. This wealth concentration dynamic could, according to the organization, lead to increased polarization of societies and rising tensions, thereby undermining social peace and global economic balance. In this context, the World Economic Forum in Davos must play a key role in implementing inclusive policies aimed at reducing these inequalities and promoting more equitable and sustainable growth for the entire global population.
6.2. Transitioning to sustainable development
One of the biggest trends shaping the future of the Davos forum is the emphasis on sustainable development and the energy transition. While climate change remains a major challenge for the global community, the Davos forum, as a meeting point for political, economic, and industrial leaders, will be a central platform for developing innovative and sustainable solutions. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2022,[39] 40% of the experts surveyed consider climate change to be the most important global risk for the next decade, highlighting the urgency of collective action on a global scale. By 2030, the energy transition and the fight against environmental degradation will require colossal investments in green infrastructure, clean technologies, and greenhouse gas emissions reduction. According to the International Energy Agency,[40] billions of dollars will need to be allocated each year to achieve global climate goals, requiring a major reorientation of global economic policies towards more sustainable and resilient models. The Davos forum will therefore be called upon to play a central role in setting international standards and global strategies to promote inclusive and environmentally respectful economic growth. This will include supporting green innovation, sustainable finance, and promoting the climate resilience of economic sectors. Through public-private partnerships and collaboration between key economic actors, the Forum will be able to foster the implementation of long-term sustainable solutions that address global challenges while stimulating economic prosperity.
6.3. The evolution of global governance and public-private partnerships
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the World Economic Forum will need to evolve to become not only a platform for dialogue but also a forum for global governance. Global challenges can no longer be solved by governments or businesses alone; strong and sustainable public-private partnerships will be necessary to tackle the major issues. The Davos forum, as a meeting point for diverse global actors, is uniquely positioned to foster these partnerships. The issue of global governance, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, will be a major theme. According to a Brookings Institution study,[41] global governance mechanisms must evolve to meet new geopolitical realities, emphasizing transparency, international cooperation, and coordination between major economic powers.
6.4. The role of technologies and innovation in economic recovery
Digital transformation and innovation will also be determining factors in the future of the World Economic Forum. The Forum will need to address crucial questions about the impact of technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and industry digitization on global economies. A PwC study[42] predicts that digitization could add $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. However, this digital transition also presents major challenges, including automation, which could cause a massive disruption in the labor market. Therefore, the World Economic Forum will need to promote solutions for an inclusive digital transition that fosters education, innovation, and job creation in an increasingly automated environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the World Economic Forum in Davos, although a key venue for discussions and exchanges between global leaders, businesses, and civil society, does not always succeed in translating its debates into concrete and sustainable actions. While this forum remains a crucial space for addressing global challenges and fostering multilateral cooperation, its actual effectiveness in shaping global economic policies remains limited. The decisions made in Davos do not always translate into tangible economic reforms, and global challenges often remain underlying statements with no direct impact.
Thus, while Davos plays an undeniable role in highlighting global economic issues and promoting international cooperation, it sometimes seems to remain a more symbolic platform than a truly transformative one. There must be a stronger will to implement the recommendations and overcome geopolitical tensions and the divergent interests of global actors if this forum is to have a more direct impact on global economic policies. In this context, Davos could play a more effective role if it managed to turn its discussions into concrete actions, involving political and economic decision-makers more actively in implementing the proposed solutions.
References
BIS (2021). Central Bank Interventions During COVID-19: Lessons Learned.
Brookings Institution, “Global Governance in the 21st Century,” 2021.
European Commission (2021) Delivering the European Green Deal.
Global Green Bond Market Report (2023), Financing the Green Transition. Bloomberg.
IMF (2022). Global Economic Prospects and Risks: Insights from Davos.
International Energy Agency (IEA) (2021), World Energy Investment 2021.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) (2022), World Economic Outlook 2021.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) (2009), World Economic Outlook: Sustaining the Recovery, Washington, D.C.: International Monetary Fund
International Monetary Fund (IMF) (2023), World Economic Outlook: Growth Slowdown, Precarious Recovery. IMF.
McKinsey Global Institute (2023), The economic impact of artificial intelligence.
OECD (2022), Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work.
OECD (2022), Global Outlook on Climate Finance.
OECD (2022), Climate Finance Provided and Mobilised by Developed Countries in 2016-2020.
Oxfam (2023), Time to Care: Unpaid and Underpaid Care Work and the Global Inequality Crisis.
PwC, “The Digital Transformation of Business,” 2021.
Sachs, J. (2022), The Age of Sustainable Development.
Schwab, K. (2020), COVID-19: The Great Reset.
Slaughter, A.-M. (2017), The Chessboard and the Web: Strategies of Connection in a Networked World, Yale University Press
Statista (2023), Blockchain Market Size and Growth.
[1] International Monetary Fund (IMF) (2009), World Economic Outlook: Sustaining the Recovery, Washington, D.C.: International Monetary Fund
[2] International Monetary Fund (IMF) (2022), World Economic Outlook 2021.
[3] World Bank (2022), Debt Service Suspension Initiative: Updates and Progress.
[4] BIS (2021), Central Bank Interventions During COVID-19: Lessons Learned.
[5] UNDP (2021), Financing Sustainable Development Goals in Developing Countries.
[6] OECD (2022), Climate Finance Provided and Mobilised by Developed Countries in 2016-2020.
[7] European Commission (2021), Delivering the European Green Deal.
[8] WEF (2023), Reskilling Revolution Initiative.
[9] Schwab, K. (2020), COVID-19: The Great Reset.
[10] World Economic Forum (2023), Future of Jobs Report.
[11] Slaughter, A.-M. (2017), The Chessboard and the Web: Strategies of Connection in a Networked World, Yale University Press
[12] Schwab, K. (2020); OECD (2022), Global Outlook on Climate Finance.
[13] World Economic Forum (2023), Annual Report 2023.
[14] Schwab, K. (2020), COVID-19: The Great Reset. World Economic Forum.
[15] Sachs, J. (2022), The Age of Sustainable Development.
[16] World Economic Forum (2023), The Global Risks Report 2023. 18th Edition. Geneva, Switzerland: World Economic Forum.
[17] World Economic Forum (2023), Annual Report 2023.
[18] UNDP (2022), Impact of Davos Initiatives on Sustainable Development Goals.
[19] World Economic Forum (2023), The Global Risks Report 2023. 18th Edition. Geneva, Switzerland: World Economic Forum
[20] IMF (2022), Global Economic Prospects and Risks: Insights from Davos.
[21] Oxfam (2023), Time to Care: Unpaid and Underpaid Care Work and the Global Inequality Crisis.
[22]World Trade Statistical Review 2023, Geneva: WTO Publications, 2023.
[23] World Economic Forum (2023), Annual Report 2023.
[24] World Food Programme, Global Hunger Report 2023, Rome: World Food Programme, 2023
[25] IMF (2022), Global Economic Prospects and Risks: Insights from Davos.
[26] World Food Programme (2023), Global hunger report 2023. World Food Programme.
[27] World Economic Forum (2023), Annual Report 2023.
[28] UNDP (2022), Impact of Davos Initiatives on Sustainable Development Goals.
[29] McKinsey Global Institute (2023), The economic impact of artificial intelligence.
[30] Statista (2023), Blockchain Market Size and Growth.
[31]UNCTAD (2022), Digital Economy Report: Technology, Trade, and Development.
[32] OECD (2022), Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work.
[33] United Nations (2022), Global Climate Action and the Role of Davos.
[34] World Economic Forum (2021), “Global Governance and Stakeholder Engagement.
[35] World Economic Forum (2022), The Future of Global Cooperation: Key Outcomes from Davos 2022. WEF Reports.
[36] Global Green Bond Market Report (2023), Financing the Green Transition, Bloomberg.
[37] International Monetary Fund (IMF) (2023), World Economic Outlook: Growth Slowdown, Precarious Recovery, IMF.
[38] Stiglitz, J. E. (2012), The Price of Inequality: How Today’s Divided Society Endangers Our Future, W.W. Norton & Company.
[39] World Economic Forum (2022), Global Risks Report, 2022.
[40] International Energy Agency (IEA) (2021), World Energy Investment 2021.
[41] Brookings Institution, “Global Governance in the 21st Century,” 2021.
[42] PwC, “The Digital Transformation of Business,” 2021.