Three key themes on the agenda at Davos 2016

A general view shows the Swiss mountain resort of Davos

A general view shows the Swiss mountain resort of Davos Image: REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann

Rebecca Ivey
Head of Global Collaboration Village, World Economic Forum

For 46 years, the World Economic Forum has brought together leaders and leading thinkers in Davos, Switzerland, to exchange ideas and seek answers to the fundamental economic questions of the times. In recent years, the focus has been on economic crises, the stability of the financial system, climate change, unemployment and inequality, among other global challenges. Technology has rippled through all these topics, offering both promise and peril.

This year, the technology wave has finally crested. Under the theme of “Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution”, leaders from all walks of life will consider a future of disruptive change as assumptions about growth models are overturned, the international balance of power continues to fray, and scientific and technological breakthroughs are poised to transform economies and societies.

Three key themes will shape the 2016 agenda:

1. Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution - The Fourth Industrial Revolution is distinct in the speed, scale and force at which it transforms entire systems of production, distribution and consumption. How is technology changing our lives and that of future generations, and reshaping the economic, social, ecological and cultural contexts in which we live?

Follow the below sessions live on webcast:

20 January

21 January

22 January

23 January

2. Addressing Global Security Issues - The humanitarian tragedy of the unfolding refugee crisis and reverberations from terrorist attacks are reminders of how geostrategic competition, renewed regionalism and new antagonists are eroding global solidarity. How can public- and private-sector leaders prepare for a rapidly changing security landscape in which emerging technologies also play a key role?

20 January

21 January

22 January

3. Solving Problems of the Global Commons - Geosecurity tensions exacerbate the challenges of governing at a global level even as the urgency increases to pursue environmental and social sustainability, financial system reform and openness of the internet. How can problems of the global commons, from climate change to the future of the Internet, be tackled through new models of public-private cooperation and the application of breakthrough science and technology solutions?

20 January

21 January

22 January

You can also follow in-depth debates on what the future holds for regions and the economy:

A range of top public figures will share first-hand insight on pertinent topics on the international stage:

More than 40 Cultural Leaders are joining the Annual Meeting to contribute to shaping the global agenda, providing context and inspiration on topics ranging from migration to sustainable development and freedom of speech, with a special focus on cultural heritage.

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