WEF Report 2025: Top Global Risks and a Call for Action

Maryam Pervez -

The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 20th edition of the Global Risks Report reveals an increasingly fragmented global landscape. Geopolitical tensions, environmental crises, and technological risks dominate the short- and long-term outlook, while economic risks remain deeply intertwined with societal and geopolitical challenges.

Key Risks in 2025

1. Immediate Concerns

  • State-based armed conflict is the most pressing global risk for 2025, cited by nearly 25% of respondents.
  • Misinformation and disinformation continue to threaten societal cohesion for the second consecutive year, eroding trust and governance.

2. Long-Term Challenges

  • Environmental risks like extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem collapse top the list for the next decade.
  • Pollution emerges as a critical concern, with harmful impacts on health and ecosystems.

3. Technological Risks

  • Misinformation, disinformation, and the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) are flagged as major risks, with AI’s misuse expected to amplify challenges in the years ahead.

A Fractured Global Order

The report highlights the growing strain on international cooperation and governance, with 64% of experts anticipating a fragmented global order by 2035. Key drivers include:

  • Rising societal polarization and inequality.
  • Concerns over illicit economic activities, mounting debt, and resource concentration.

Urgent Need for Cooperation

The WEF calls for decisive global collaboration to address interconnected risks and rebuild trust. Mirek Dušek, Managing Director at WEF, stated:

“In a world marked by deepening divides, leaders must prioritize cooperation and resilience to prevent compounding instability.”

Mark Elsner, head of WEF’s Global Risks Initiative, echoed the sentiment:

“There is no silver bullet, but inaction could lead to catastrophic consequences for future generations.”

As divisions deepen and risks escalate, the report underscores the responsibility of global leaders to foster dialogue, strengthen ties, and prioritize sustainability. The choices made today will shape the global landscape for decades to come, making this a pivotal decade for action.

For more details, visit WEF Global Risks Report.

News Source: Gulf Business