The World Economic Forum (WEF) held its annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, from January 21 to 24, 2024, bringing together leaders from government, business, civil society, and academia to discuss the most pressing issues facing the world today. The theme of this year’s meeting was “A New Vision for Global Cooperation”, reflecting the need for a renewed commitment to multilateralism and collaboration in the face of unprecedented challenges such as climate change, pandemics, inequality, and geopolitical tensions.

The World Chamber of Commerce Platform (WCHAM), as a global network of chambers of commerce and industry that aims to foster trade, investment, and cooperation among businesses of all sizes and sectors, participated in several sessions and events at Davos 2024, highlighting the role and contribution of the private sector in advancing the global agenda.

Some of the key takeaways from Davos 2024 include:

– The need for a new social contract that ensures that everyone benefits from economic growth and technological innovation, and that no one is left behind. This requires a more inclusive and human-centered approach to governance, education, health, social protection, and digital transformation.
– The urgency of addressing the climate crisis and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy. This requires a more ambitious and coordinated action from all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, investors, and consumers. It also requires a more innovative and collaborative approach to financing, technology transfer, and adaptation.
– The importance of strengthening global cooperation and multilateral institutions in order to tackle complex and interconnected challenges that transcend national borders. This requires a more constructive and respectful dialogue among different actors, as well as a more effective and accountable leadership that builds trust and confidence among the international community.

WCHAM is committed to supporting the outcomes and recommendations of Davos 2024, and to working with its members and partners to promote international trade and investment as a driver of inclusive and sustainable growth. WCHAM believes that by connecting businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors worldwide, it can create an environment that facilitates trade, commerce, and investment across international borders, while also promoting social and cultural exchange between countries.

WCHAM invites you to join its network, participate in its events, and benefit from its services. Together, we can build a more prosperous and peaceful world through international trade and investment.