World Economic Forum

WHAT IS THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM (WEF)?

A Swiss nonprofit foundation that is “committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic, and other leaders of society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas”. It holds an annual meeting at Davos, a mountain resort in Switzerland, where world leaders gather to discuss pertinent political, social and economic issues.

WHO PARTICIPATES?

Top business leaders, politicians, economists, celebrities and journalists.

DAVOS 2018

The 48th WEF Annual Meeting was held from 23-26 January, centered around the theme of “Creating a Shared Future in a Fractured World”. In a period where countries must confront global threats such as terrorism and climate change, remaining united and harmonious becomes important in carving out the future. During the forum, a broad range of issues were covered, ranging from free trade to education to inclusivity.

HIGHLIGHTS

Donald Trump on American foreign policy: “But America first does not mean America alone. When the United States grows, so does the world. “

Narendra Modi on the challenges the world faces: “Climate change, terrorism and the backlash against globalization are the three most significant challenges to civilization as we know it”

Justin Trudeau on equality for women: “...I’d like to focus on a fundamental shift that every leader in this room can act on immediately...I’m talking about hiring, promoting, and retaining more women. And not just because it’s the right thing to do, or the nice thing to do, but because it’s the smart thing to do.”

HOW ABOUT SINGAPORE?

Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Minister in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Chan Chun Sing represented Singapore at Davos. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, in line with Singapore becoming ASEAN’s chair this year, they shared about Singapore’s priorities for ASEAN and participated in meetings on developing strategies for economic development in the future.

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