The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2025 identifies armed conflict and climate change as principal risks to the global economy, according to a survey of over 900 experts. Significant pessimism is noted regarding the outlook over the next two years, highlighting the increasing urgency for global cooperation to mitigate these challenges.
According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2025, released on Wednesday, armed conflict and climate change are the foremost threats to the global economy. The report indicates that military conflicts and extreme weather events significantly undermine economic confidence, highlighting the intricate link between these issues and economic stability. This report serves as a precursor to the WEF’s annual meeting, which will take place in Davos on January 20.
The survey results showed that 23 percent of experts believe state-based armed conflict is likely to lead to a material crisis on a global scale, while an additional 14 percent identify extreme weather caused by climate change as a formidable risk. Conducted with over 900 global risk authorities, the survey defines global risks as conditions detrimental to significant portions of the world’s gross domestic product or population.
Misinformation and disinformation continue to rank as the most critical global risks in the following two years, echoing the assessment of the previous year. Extreme weather events and state-based armed conflict are also high on the list. Over the coming decade, the main concerns include extreme weather, biodiversity loss, critical changes in Earth’s systems, and resource shortages.
The survey revealed a concerning global outlook, with 52 percent of respondents expecting an unsettled situation and 31 percent anticipating turbulence. Only 5 percent foresee a stormy outlook. This data indicates an increasing sense of pessimism compared to last year, suggesting deeper divides and escalating risks in the world.
Mirek Dusek, Managing Director of WEF, emphasizes the importance of global leaders fostering collaboration to mitigate instability. He remarked, “The stakes have never been higher.” The current crises, including the humanitarian situation in Syria, Gaza, and the Middle East, will be significant discussion points at the forthcoming meeting, as stated by WEF President Borge Brende.
The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report provides crucial insights into the perceived threats facing the global economy, especially in light of current geopolitical tensions and climate crises. By surveying over 900 experts, the report seeks to inform leaders about potential risks that could disrupt global stability and economic growth, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to address these challenges effectively.
The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2025 highlights armed conflict and climate change as critical threats to global economic stability. With a notable rise in pessimism regarding the future, there is an urgent call for action from global leaders. The escalating risks require collaboration and resilience to prevent further instability in an increasingly turbulent world.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
