World Economic Forum

World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging leaders from business, government, academia, and civil society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas. Founded in 1971 by Professor Klaus Schwab, the Forum is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and operates as a not-for-profit foundation.

Initially launched as the European Management Forum, WEF shifted its scope globally in the 1980s, becoming renowned for its annual meeting in Davos, where influential figures from across sectors converge to discuss pressing world challenges. Its mission is built on the belief that progress and sustainable development require the collaboration of public and private sectors in a spirit of global citizenship.

Beyond the flagship Davos summit, the World Economic Forum hosts a variety of meetings throughout the year, including regional forums and industry-specific gatherings, focusing on topics like climate change, technology, inclusive growth, and health. It also drives over 100 active initiatives and platforms aimed at fostering partnerships, research, and innovation around critical global issues.

The Forum places a strong emphasis on the "Stakeholder Theory," championed by Schwab, which posits that companies should serve all their stakeholders — including employees, customers, communities, and the environment — not just shareholders. WEF also leverages digital platforms, including the "Strategic Intelligence" tool and multiple virtual communities, to connect global leaders and disseminate thought leadership more broadly.

Neutral and independent, WEF collaborates closely with international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, and World Trade Organization, while maintaining its independence from political and commercial interests. Its projects range from sustainability and social justice to digital transformation and global trade, aiming to catalyze positive systemic change.

Today, the World Economic Forum is recognized not just as a meeting place for elites, but as a powerful engine for dialogue, collaboration, and action on the world's most urgent problems.