Davos 2024: Navigating global challenges amidst changing priorities

livemint.com:

As the leading global policy makers and thought leaders gather in Davos for the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024, there is heightened anticipation about the scheduled discussions on critical global issues dealing with the economic, technological and environmental trajectory for the coming years. The WEF’s recent report on the ‘10 Global Risks’ provides a guide for the conversations that will take place at Davos this year. I can see a few key themes that will take centre stage in WEF 2024.

The rising dominance of artificial intelligence (AI) is of course on the top of the mind of all participants. The economic outlook and strategies for global growth and sustainability are two other issues that will be in the limelight. Increased private sector engagement may also be in the spotlight.

I also anticipate more nuanced discussions of geopolitical and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) issues. The past six months has seen the rise of AI dominating headlines across the world. It is therefore fitting that Davos is hosting an ‘AI House’ to recognize the increasing role of AI in shaping the global agenda.

Multiple sessions on the official WEF programme have been set aside to have focused discussions on understanding and managing AI’s impact on various sectors and also the dangers of misinformation. AI also dominates several of the private sessions by companies that have a stake in the disruptive technology. Fears of a global slowdown and a recession in some parts of the world have not yet receded.