The World Economic Forum Shifts Annual Meeting to Lucerne, Switzerland: Embracing Digital Transformation
This week, the World Economic Forum (WEF) announced a significant change to its traditional schedule and venue for the Annual Meeting 2021, moving from the iconic ski resort town of Davos to Lucerne-Burgenstock, Switzerland. This change was driven by the ongoing challenges posed by the global pandemic. Let's explore the details and implications of this shift.
Announcement and New Details
On Wednesday, the WEF officially announced that the Annual Meeting 2021 would be held in Lucerne-Burgenstock from May 18 to 21. This venue is a scenic location that offers a different setting from the more traditional winter sports backdrop of Davos. The WEF stressed that the meeting would only take place if all conditions were met to ensure the health and safety of participants and the host community. This decision aligns with the organization's commitment to global safety and well-being.
The Digital Prelude: Davos Dialogues
In addition to the main meeting, the WEF has also announced that the Annual Meeting 2021 will be preceded by 'Davos Dialogues,' a series of high-level virtual sessions taking place during the week of January 25. These dialogues will feature key global leaders sharing their perspectives on the state of the world in 2021. This digital format will allow more extensive participation and emphasize the ongoing need for connectivity and dialogue.
The 2021 Theme: 'The Great Reset'
At the heart of the Annual Meeting 2021 will be the theme 'The Great Reset.' This theme encapsulates the need for comprehensive solutions to address the world's most pressing challenges. Global leaders will come together to design a recovery path for the post-COVID-19 era, focusing on creating a more cohesive and sustainable society. The meeting will combine both in-person and digital elements, ensuring a robust and inclusive dialogue.
Global Connectivity and Open Dialogue
The Annual Meeting 2021 in Lucerne-Burgenstock will feature a virtual network of 400 hubs around the world. These hubs will connect participants in Lucerne with influencers and leaders globally, providing a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange. Additionally, the meeting will include interactions with the WEF's young Global Shapers, ensuring a diverse and inclusive approach to addressing global challenges. This format aims to foster a broad and collaborative response to the myriad issues facing the world today.
Traditional and Evolving Formats
Traditionally, the WEF has held its annual summit in the picturesque ski resort town of Davos. However, the event's global importance and the need for flexibility have led to a shift in approach. In June, the WEF announced that it would adopt a new twin-summit format for its next annual meeting, integrating in-person and virtual dialogues. This format allowed for a wider participation and engagement, particularly in view of the global pandemic.
Background: The 50th Annual Meeting
The 50th WEF Annual Meeting, held from January 21-24, 2020, was among the last major gatherings before the coronavirus pandemic significantly impacted global activity. This event marked a critical moment where leaders and stakeholders came together to address pressing global issues. The subsequent shift to a hybrid model reflects the organization's adaptability and commitment to ensuring continued dialogue and collaboration despite unprecedented challenges.
In conclusion, the World Economic Forum's decision to shift its Annual Meeting 2021 to Lucerne-Burgenstock, alongside the adoption of a multi-format approach, demonstrates the organization's commitment to global engagement and digital transformation. As we navigate the complexities of the post-pandemic world, such adaptability is crucial for fostering global cooperation and innovation.