For over three decades, Nik Gowing has been a witness to the transformation of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. From its humble beginnings to becoming a pivotal gathering for world leaders, the event has evolved beyond just a ski resort meet-up to a global stage for high-level political, economic, and business discussions.
In this 3-minute journey back to 2013, Gowing offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on the dramatic shifts that have shaped the WEF. What was once a quiet Alpine retreat has transformed into an annual hotspot for debates that drive global decisions, particularly on leadership, sustainability, and climate action.
Gowing reflects on the profound impact the WEF has had, from welcoming key political figures, including controversial leaders like Donald Trump, to its role in shaping crucial dialogues around climate change and sustainability.
With the 2025 edition of Davos on the horizon, this article gives a glimpse of how the event’s role in global leadership continues to evolve, setting the stage for future conversations on the world’s most pressing issues.
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