The WEF summit is facing criticism that it is a gathering of the super-rich that fails to tackle growing global inequality.
The 2024 World Economic Forum in Davos, which will take place from 15 to 19 January, will this year focus on the theme 'Rebuilding Trust'. The event brings together more than 60 world leaders, hundreds of business leaders and campaigners in the Swiss ski resort of Davos. Economically, the world is facing a complex situation, including central bank policies and rising debt levels.
Attendees include prominent figures such as Argentine President Javier Milei, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. UN Secretary General António Guterres, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and French President Emmanuel Macron will also be present, as well as more than 150 technology pioneers and innovators.
An important agenda item is the closed meeting of the Financial Services Governors on January 17, where more than 100 chairmen and CEOs of banks, markets, insurance and asset management will be present. The meeting, coordinated by Barclays CEO C.S. Venkatakrishnan and Manulife CEO Roy Gori, will focus on navigating risk in a world of geopolitical tensions, macroeconomic uncertainty and technological disruption.
From January 15 to 19, 2024, the global elite will gather in the Swiss mountain village of Davos.
The Netherlands will also be represented by a cabinet delegation, including Prime Minister Rutte and Ministers Ollongren of Defense, Adriaansens of Economic Affairs and Climate, Van Gennip of Social Affairs and Employment, and Van Leeuwen of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation.
One of the most important themes this year is the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as a driving force for the economy and society. The WEF will focus on the regulations surrounding AI and how it can work together with other emerging technologies, with the aim of making AI safe and efficient for both businesses and individuals. This includes addressing the use of AI-generated deepfake images in contexts such as pornography, world conflict, and economic and social manipulation. The summit will also introduce the AI Governance Alliance, a multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at responsible, transparent and inclusive use of AI.
In the areas of climate, nature and energy, the forum will focus on long-term strategies to achieve the goals of carbon neutrality and a nature-positive world by 2050. This includes providing cost-effective, safe and inclusive access to essential resources such as food, water and energy. What is important here is collaboration between governments, companies and community organizations to work together innovatively and creatively.
