Inflation, extreme weather and wars identified as top global risks
Global stability is most threatened by rising food and energy costs, climate-related disasters and the risk of further military conflict, according to 1,200 experts canvassed by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
This content was published on
1 minute
swissinfo.ch/mga
Português
pt
Inflação, clima extremo e guerras identificadas como de alto risco global
The WEF Global Risks Report 2023 reflects the concerns of political and business leaders around the world.
The soaring cost of living has been tagged as the most pressing concern within the next two years, followed by natural disasters and ‘Geoeconomic confrontation’ – or warfare.
The list of short-term risks has changed from the last report, issued in January 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the impact this has had on energy and food prices.
On a ten-year horizon, environmental threats dominate the top four positions, topped by ‘Failure to mitigate climate change’.
Experts who contributed to the report are also concerned by the growing threat of cybercrime in both the short-term and long run.
“The short-term risk landscape is dominated by energy, food, debt and disasters,” said WEF Managing Director Saadia Zahidi in the 18th Global Risks Report. “In this already toxic mix of known and rising global risks, a new shock event, from a new military conflict to a new virus, could become unmanageable.”
More
More
Looking ahead: Switzerland’s economic outlook for 2023
This content was published on
Our economic journalists outline the major developments awaiting the Swiss economy.
Swiss foreign minister backs Berset at Council of Europe
This content was published on
Cassis described Berset as the "ideal candidate" to help the Council realise its aim of ensuring security and peace in Europe.
Gay conversion therapy banned in Swiss canton of Valais
This content was published on
On Thursday, the canton approved a new Health Act which includes a ban on therapies aimed at changing sexual orientation or gender identity.
This content was published on
Some aspects of pro-Palestine sit-ins have gone too far, but the right to protest and debate must be upheld, the student association has said.
Swiss LGTBIQ helpline: attacks more than doubled in 2023
This content was published on
Three organisations jointly operating a helpline have called for more awareness, action and funding to address discrimination.
This content was published on
Switzerland's economy grew slightly at the start of 2024, with growth in the service sector contrasting with weak growth in industry.
Swiss employment rate rises in first quarter of 2024
This content was published on
The number of women and foreign nationals in employment increased particularly strongly, the Federal Statistical Office said on Thursday.
This content was published on
Growth forecasts for Switzerland have been revised downwards for the current year and 2023 by the KOF Swiss Economic Institute.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.