Misinformation Seen as Top Global Risk in Year of Pivotal Elections
In a world increasingly fraught with risks, leading near-term concerns are shifting to the dangers of technology and related problems like the spread of disinformation, and away from economic worries, according to an annual survey of policymakers, industry leaders and experts on risk conducted by the World Economic Forum. The survey of more than 1,400 experts and leaders, released on Wednesday ahead of the WEF annual meeting in Davos next week, points to a moderately risky global environment through 2026 that deteriorates significantly over the coming decade.
Half of the 10 top global risks foreseen through 2034—including the top four—are related to climate change and environmental degradation. Risks from large-scale armed conflict, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Israel’s battles with Palestinian militants, are also perceived as greatly increasing.
The survey, which was conducted in September and early October, was largely concluded before Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, prompting Israel’s large-scale incursion into the Gaza Strip.
The war has since spread into a regional conflict that now includes attacks on commercial shipping through the Suez Canal, with potential broader economic impact. “Underlying geopolitical tensions combined with the eruption of active hostilities in multiple regions is contributing to an unstable global order characterized by polarizing narratives, eroding trust and insecurity," said WEF Managing Director Saadia Zahidi in a preface to the report.
The survey is notable for the decline in concerns about immediate economic dangers such as inflation and a recession. Top concerns in last year’s survey—which was conducted in the immediate aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and
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