Davos opens under strain as leaders confront a more fragmented world order

The 2026 World Economic Forum meeting in Davos is opening against a backdrop of deepening geopolitical rivalry and weakening faith in multilateral problem-solving. Reuters describes the atmosphere as a “new era,” where the assumptions that underpinned decades of global economic integration are being challenged by more confrontational national strategies. A major theme is the impact of U.S. policy under President Donald Trump on alliances, trade and global cooperation. Reuters notes that disputes over tariffs, security commitments, and energy priorities are feeding uncertainty for governments and companies trying to plan investments and supply chains. Another focus is how fast-moving technology—especially AI—could reshape labor markets and national security. Executives and policymakers are also expected to debate energy security and the pace of the transition, with fossil-fuel and renewables strategies colliding amid political polarization. Davos is still a convening point for high-level dialogue, but the reporting suggests its influence is being tested by a world that is less willing to compromise. The meeting’s challenge is to convert “dialogue” into practical coordination at a time when incentives increasingly favor competition over cooperation.

13.01.2026

https://www.reuters.com/business/davos/davos-begins-new-era-grappling-with-global-order-shaken-by-trump-2026-01-13/