World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Risks Report Highlights Mounting Concerns Over Geopolitics, Environmental Issues, and Technological Risks
Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum (WEF), shared key insights from the 2025 Global Risks Report, emphasizing the mounting sense of urgency in addressing environmental and geopolitical risks, as well as the evolving challenges presented by technological advancements.
Zahidi highlighted that this year’s Global Risks Perception Survey shows a growing alarm over immediate-term threats, particularly environmental problems such as extreme weather events and pollution. “These are not distant issues – they are present, and solutions need to be implemented urgently,” Zahidi stressed.
Geopolitical Risks Remain High
A significant portion of the report focuses on geopolitical tensions, with fears of escalating armed conflicts and economic confrontations topping the list of global concerns. Zahidi pointed out that the perception of worsening or spreading conflicts is a dominant short-term worry, citing volatile regions such as Ukraine, the Middle East, and Sudan. The inability of multilateral institutions to effectively mediate or resolve these conflicts adds to the global uncertainty.
“Fear and uncertainty cloud the outlook in various parts of the world,” Zahidi remarked, referring to the heightened tensions in conflict zones. The report also emphasizes the importance of multilateral efforts to resolve such issues, which continue to challenge global stability.
Societal Risks: Polarization and Misinformation
Another critical concern is societal risks, particularly the growing inequality within countries and the deepening polarization in societies. These divisions are affecting policy-making processes and exacerbating misinformation, which continues to top the list of short- to medium-term global risks. Zahidi warned that the rise of generative AI has intensified the spread of false or misleading content, creating significant challenges in combating misinformation.
“With the rapid scale at which AI-generated disinformation can be created and disseminated, the challenge of addressing it is becoming more formidable,” Zahidi noted.
Technological and Economic Risks
While economic risks, such as inflation and the threat of an economic downturn, have receded from immediate concerns, Zahidi cautioned that the global economic landscape remains fragile. She warned that escalating trade wars and trade restrictions could significantly impact global markets, especially given the current elevated asset valuations.
Looking further ahead, technological risks are rising on the long-term horizon, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and biotechnology. These advancements, while offering immense potential, could pose serious risks if not managed responsibly.
A Call for Collective Action
Zahidi concluded by reflecting on the changing nature of global risks over the past two decades. While many risks have been successfully mitigated through collective action, the report stresses the need for continued collaboration among global leaders. Zahidi called on all stakeholders – from government leaders to business executives, civil society, and academia – to engage in open, constructive dialogue and take urgent action to mitigate future risks.
“Foresight based on informed, expert views remains critical for better planning and preparation,” Zahidi said, underscoring the need for visionary leadership in addressing the complex challenges ahead. The 2025 Global Risks Report reinforces that the only viable solution to the world’s most pressing risks lies in multilateral collaboration and sustained efforts to build resilient economies and societies.
The report, based on insights from over 900 global leaders across various sectors and supported by experts from the Global Risks Report Advisory Board, continues to provide valuable foresight on the complex and sometimes alarming trajectory of global risks. As the world faces an unpredictable future, the call for collective responsibility and action has never been more urgent.
