What to know about this week’s annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos

The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos is set to kick off this week, with nearly 3,000 high-level participants from business, government, and various other sectors expected to attend. This prestigious event, organized by a think tank based in Geneva, has been a focal point for discussions on a wide range of global issues since its inception in 1971.

The theme for this year’s forum is “A Spirit of Dialogue,” focusing on cooperation, growth, investment in people, innovation, and building prosperity. With over 200 sessions planned, the agenda will cover a diverse array of topics, from economic disparity to climate change to global cooperation.

Critics of the Davos forum argue that it often falls short in translating talk into action, particularly in addressing the widening wealth inequality seen globally. A recent report by Oxfam revealed that the wealth of billionaires surged in 2025, reaching a record $18.3 trillion, while one in four people worldwide experiences food insecurity.

The list of attendees for this year’s forum is impressive, with nearly 400 top political leaders, including more than 60 heads of state and government, and close to 850 chairs and chief executives of leading companies expected to be present. Notable figures such as U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will be among the key speakers.

The forum will also delve into pressing geopolitical issues, including America’s role in the world under Trump’s leadership and the implications of artificial intelligence on the economy and workforce. Technology leaders like Jensen Huang of Nvidia and Satya Nadella of Microsoft will be on hand to discuss the potential of AI to drive efficiency and innovation while addressing concerns about job displacement.

As the forum unfolds, the world will be watching closely to see if the discussions lead to tangible solutions for the pressing challenges facing our global community. Stay tuned for updates on this year’s Davos forum and the outcomes of the discussions taking place among some of the world’s most influential leaders and thinkers.