World Leaders Convene in Davos for 2026 Forum Amid Global Uncertainty
DAVOS, 21 January 2026 – The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum has commenced in the Alpine resort of Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, bringing together nearly 3,000 leaders from government, business and civil society. Under the theme ‘A Spirit of Dialogue’, the five-day gathering seeks to foster cooperation on critical global issues including economic growth, climate action and technological governance during a period of significant geopolitical tension.
A Gathering of Global Influence
The meeting, which runs from 19 to 23 January, represents one of the largest concentrations of global leadership outside the United Nations. Organisers report a record attendance of over 60 heads of state and government, alongside nearly 850 chairs and chief executives from the world’s leading corporations. The forum provides a neutral platform for dialogue at a time when traditional multilateral institutions face strain from increasing fragmentation and competition.
Notable attendees include U.S. President Donald J. Trump, who is scheduled to participate in a press conference on the Global Cooperation Barometer alongside WEF President Børge Brende and BlackRock CEO Laurence D. Fink. A significant UK delegation, led by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, is present to promote Britain as an investment destination following recent positive economic forecasts.
Key Themes and Agenda Focus
Discussions at this year’s forum are structured around five central pillars: fostering cooperation in a contested world, unlocking new sources of economic growth, investing in people and skills, deploying innovation responsibly, and building prosperity within planetary boundaries. The agenda reflects a world grappling with the dual challenges of technological disruption and environmental crisis.
Artificial intelligence remains a dominant topic, with sessions examining its economic potential, governance requirements, and impact on the workforce. Climate and nature continue to command significant attention, building on commitments from previous forums and the outcomes of recent COP meetings. The ‘Safeguarding the Planet’ theme emphasises the urgent need to accelerate the clean energy transition and mobilise finance for climate adaptation.
Notable Developments and Sessions
| Event/Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| The Davos Daily Show | The Financial Times is broadcasting live analysis from Davos from 20-22 January, featuring insights from senior journalists and guests including former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and OpenAI Chairman Bret Taylor. |
| Global Cooperation Barometer 2026 | Press conference scheduled for 2.30pm CET today (21 January) with Børge Brende, Laurence D. Fink and Donald J. Trump, presenting data on the state of international collaboration. |
| UK Government Presence | Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds are leading the most visible UK delegation in years, hosting events with global investors and CEOs to promote British business and stability. |
| Climate Finance Focus | Multiple sessions address the estimated $1.7 trillion annual investment needed for the clean energy transition in emerging economies, with a focus on mobilising private capital. |
Context and Criticism
The forum convenes against a complex backdrop of ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainty, and a critical year for global democracy with numerous national elections scheduled. While proponents argue Davos provides an essential space for discreet diplomacy and public-private partnership, critics consistently highlight the event’s perceived elitism, high costs, and the growing disconnect between the concentrated wealth in attendance and widening global inequality.
The departure of founder Klaus Schwab in 2025 and the appointment of interim co-chairs Laurence Fink and André Hoffmann marked a significant transition for the organisation, with this year’s meeting seen as a test of its evolving role and relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the World Economic Forum?
The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international non-governmental organisation founded in 1971 and headquartered in Geneva. It is best known for its annual meeting in Davos, which brings together political and business leaders to discuss global issues. The forum also conducts research and facilitates initiatives on topics including economic development, public health and environmental sustainability.
Who attends the Davos meeting?
Participants include heads of state and government, cabinet ministers, chief executives of major corporations, leaders from international organisations, academics, representatives from non-governmental organisations, and journalists. Attendance is by invitation only, with corporate partners paying substantial membership fees.
What are the main criticisms of the Davos forum?
Critics argue the meeting is emblematic of a disconnected global elite, citing its exclusivity, high security costs borne by the Swiss public, and a perceived lack of tangible outcomes. Concerns are also raised about corporate influence over global governance and the environmental impact of the event itself. Defenders counter that it provides a unique neutral space for dialogue that can lead to behind-the-scenes diplomacy and collaborative action.
How can the public follow the events?
While the core meeting is private, the World Economic Forum streams selected sessions live on its website and social media channels. Major news organisations, including the Financial Times with its ‘Davos Daily Show’, provide extensive coverage, analysis and commentary from the ground throughout the week.