World Economic Forum's "Collaboration in the Intelligent Age" theme highlights growing tensions between cooperation and competition in technology and climate action.

The 55th World Economic Forum in Davos concluded with stark warnings about the state of global climate action alongside unprecedented discussions about artificial intelligence competitiveness. Under the theme "Collaboration in the Intelligent Age," nearly 3,000 leaders from over 130 countries gathered to address mounting challenges in technology governance, climate response, and international cooperation.

Climate experts delivered sobering assessments, with 2024 confirmed as the hottest year on record and current national commitments placing the world on track for 2.6-3.1°C warming by 2100. Research from the WEF's Potsdam Institute revealed that only 10% of corporations demonstrate tangible climate action, with just 1% performing at the highest levels.

The forum took place amid heightened technological competition, particularly following the announcement of Stargate, a $500 billion US artificial intelligence infrastructure initiative. World leaders recognized this as a clear signal that global AI competition is intensifying, prompting calls for Europe and the UK to accelerate their own technological development programs.

The International Monetary Fund projected global growth to remain steady at 3.3% in 2025-2026, below the historical 3.7% average, emphasizing the need for innovation-driven economic strategies. The digital economy, already accounting for over 15.5% of global GDP, is expected to generate 70% of new economic value over the next decade through digitally-enabled platforms.

Workforce transformation emerged as a critical concern, with the Forum's Future of Jobs report estimating that 39% of existing skills will become transformed or outdated within five years . Leaders emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reskilling programs to address technological displacement while leveraging AI to support employee transition and empowerment.

Despite the collaborative theme, political realities demonstrated a preference for competition over cooperation in international affairs, creating obstacles for coordinated global responses to climate change and technological governance challenges.

Source: techUK, World Economic Forum, BNP Paribas, January 2025

SINOVA GROUP provides strategic consulting for technology competitiveness assessments and climate transition planning. We offer AI governance advisory services and workforce transformation consulting to help organizations navigate the evolving landscape of technological competition while maintaining sustainable business practices.