The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 will begin on January 19, 2026, in Davos, Switzerland. The five-day summit will bring together nearly 3,000 global leaders to discuss solutions to economic slowdown, geopolitical tensions, climate risks and technological disruption. The meeting comes at a time of rising global uncertainty and shifting power dynamics.
Why in News?
The World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 is in news as it starts on January 19 in Davos. This year’s summit is among the largest-ever gatherings, with leaders from over 130 countries participating.
What Is Davos and the World Economic Forum?
- The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international organization headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
- For over 50 years, it has brought together leaders from governments, businesses, international organizations and civil society.
- Its most prominent event is the annual Davos meeting, where global challenges are discussed through public private cooperation.
- The forum focuses on improving the state of the world by encouraging dialogue, collaboration and policy innovation across borders and sectors.
Davos 2026: Dates, Location and Theme
- The WEF Annual Meeting 2026 will be held in Davos, Switzerland, from January 19 to January 23, 2026.
- The official theme for this year is “A Spirit of Dialogue”, highlighting the need for cooperation in a divided and contested world.
- Discussions will focus on rebuilding trust, managing geopolitical tensions, promoting innovation-led growth and ensuring inclusive development amid economic fragmentation and rapid technological change.
Participants at Davos 2026
- According to WEF, nearly 3,000 leaders from more than 130 countries will attend Davos 2026.
- This includes around 400 senior political leaders, nearly 65 heads of state or government, and leaders from G7 countries.
- Prominent attendees include Donald Trump, who will lead the US delegation.
- Heads of global institutions such as the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, and World Health Organization will also participate.
Role of Business and Technology Leaders
- Davos 2026 will see participation from nearly 850 top CEOs and business leaders from global corporations.
- Technology leaders such as Satya Nadella and Jensen Huang are expected to attend.
- Discussions will focus on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, energy transition, supply chains and innovation led growth, reflecting the growing influence of the private sector in shaping global economic outcomes.
India at Davos 2026
- India will be represented by a high-level political and business delegation, highlighting its growing global economic and strategic importance.
- Senior Union Ministers handling portfolios like commerce, energy, digital infrastructure and external affairs are expected to attend.
- Several state chief ministers, including those from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala, will also participate.
- Indian corporate leaders from groups like Tata, Infosys, Mahindra and JSW will anchor India’s presence at Davos.
What India and States Aim to Showcase
- Indian states will use Davos 2026 to attract foreign investment and showcase development models.
- Kerala will promote its responsible investment and ESG focused approach, while Jharkhand will present its energy transition model based on renewable energy and inclusive growth.
- Andhra Pradesh will highlight investment opportunities in infrastructure and industry.
- These engagements aim to position India as a reliable global growth partner.
Why Davos 2026 Is Important Globally
- Davos 2026 is significant as it takes place amid geopolitical conflicts, economic slowdown, climate stress and rapid technological change.
- The forum serves as a neutral platform for dialogue at a time when multilateral cooperation is under strain.
- Leaders are expected to outline strategies for sustainable growth, climate action, AI governance and global cooperation, making the summit highly relevant for future global policymaking.
About World Economic Forum
| Aspect | Details |
| Established In | - 1971 (as European Management Forum)
- Renamed World Economic Forum in 1987
|
| Founder | - Klaus Schwab, German economist
- Propounded the concept of Stakeholder Capitalism
|
| Headquarters | |
| Aim / Objectives | - Improve the state of the world
- Promote public–private cooperation
- Address global economic, social, and environmental challenges
- Encourage collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society
|
Key Summary at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
| Why in News? | WEF Annual Meeting 2026 begins on January 19 |
| Event | Davos World Economic Forum 2026 |
| Theme | “A Spirit of Dialogue” |
| Dates | January 19–23, 2026 |
| Participants | 3,000 leaders from 130+ countries |
| India’s Role | High-level political and business delegation |
| Focus Areas | Economy, geopolitics, AI, climate, growth |
Question
Q. What is the theme of Davos 2026?
A. Global Reset
B. Inclusive Growth
C. A Spirit of Dialogue
D. Sustainable Future