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A Glimpse of Optimism at WEF in Davos
By Victor Perton
Surprised by the damaging pessimism and negativity of the "Global Risk Report" by the World Economic Forum (WEF), it was good to encounter a small dose of optimism from WF publications.
Lea Weibel of the WEF, in her piece "It's not all doom and gloom: 8 experts on their reasons to be optimistic in 2024," brings this to light. She wrote, "In the face of critical challenges facing humanity, it's essential to recognize that there is hope and reason for optimism."
Amy M. Brachio, EY Global Vice Chair, Sustainability, and a member of the GFC on the Future of Economics of Equitable Transition, remarks on her pragmatic relationship with optimism, demonstrating a realistic yet hopeful approach to global challenges.
Badr Jafar, CEO of Crescent Enterprises, contributes to this outlook, particularly regarding the private sector's role in the global climate action agenda. He states, "As we look to 2024, I am optimistic about the increased engagement from the private sector on the global climate action agenda."
In a press comment, South African finance minister Godongwana has also expressed optimism about securing impactful investments in Davos, adding to an economic development narrative of positivity and potential at the forum.
Despite these rays of optimism, there remains a need for more positive focus at Davos.
In my article yesterday, "Davos and WEF's Avalanche of Pessimism," I highlighted the overwhelming negative sentiments. Instead of unleashing an avalanche of pessimists on Davos, WEF could focus on getting out into the alpine sunshine of Davos and the world of positive opportunities.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, echoed this sentiment this week, saying, "The coming year will be a test for humanity; a test of whether we give into division, suspicion and narrow nationalism, or whether we can rise above our differences and seek the common good. Despite the many challenges we face, I remain an optimist."
Gordon Young, editor-in-chief of The Drum, also recognizes the need for positivity at Davos. He writes, "The Drum is doing its bit to accentuate the positive in Davos" and notes their efforts to highlight the opportunities AI offers.
With balanced risk analysis and fostering optimism, we can build a brighter future together, where challenges are met with innovation, hope, and resilience. Davos has the potential to be a beacon of positivity once again, guiding us towards a world of possibilities and shared prosperity.
Victor Perton is the CEO of The Centre for Optimism
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