The World Economic Forum opens in Davos as government leaders and business chiefs gather in the Swiss Alps amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Critics say the theme 'A Spirit of Dialogue' is at odds with President Trump's trade realignments and strained relationships with allies.
Although some observers argue the WEF no longer dictates the global agenda, it remains an important forum for elite networking, private diplomacy and dealmaking.
Government leaders and top executives will descend on the Swiss Alps starting Monday for the annual World Economic Forum in Davos, a gathering long seen as a symbol of globalization that is now under strain amid a shifting geopolitical landscape.
The forum's theme this year, 'A Spirit of Dialogue', has attracted skepticism. The Guardian described it as 'a heroic stretch' in light of President Donald Trump's reordering of global trade, his expansionist posture and mounting tensions with traditional allies.
Trump will remain a central focus as he leads a large US delegation to Davos. His presence and policy shifts are expected to shape discussions and media coverage throughout the week.
As Semafor's Liz Hoffman notes, the so-called 'Davos consensus' no longer reliably sets the global agenda.
Still, the WEF matters: former attendees and observers say the forum continues to provide powerful leaders and executives with a high-value space for private talks, networking and dealmaking, even if its influence over public policy has waned.
What To Watch: whether leaders can translate talk into concrete cooperation despite deep disagreements on trade and security, and whether Davos produces substantive accords or mainly symbolic gestures.
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