The Open Forum Davos 2025, part of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, will be held from January 20-24, 2025, at the Swiss Alpine School in Davos. This public event will convene thought leaders and the public under the theme “Justice for All: A World without Barriers.” It aims to foster critical dialogue on global issues, with a particular focus on social justice, equity, and inclusivity.
Key Themes and Discussions
1. Geopolitical Landscape and Global Challenges
Sessions will delve into the current geopolitical climate. They will examine its impact on global stability. These sessions will highlight the need for international cooperation. This is crucial to address complex issues like security, trade, and diplomacy.
2. Environmental Justice and Equity in Energy Access
Another key theme will address environmental justice, specifically equity in energy access. The forum will explore ways to guarantee that clean, affordable energy reaches marginalized communities, fostering sustainable development worldwide.
3. Gender Justice
Gender justice will take center stage, with discussions about achieving equal rights and opportunities for all genders. The sessions will explore ways to dismantle gender-based barriers and create a fair future for women and girls globally.
4. The Role of the Arts in Society
The arts’ potential to catalyze social change will also be explored. The forum will discuss how art can elevate voices that have been historically silenced. It will also consider how art promotes inclusion through the lens of justice, creativity, and expression.
5. The Legal Status of Nature
In a groundbreaking session, the forum will consider whether nature should be granted legal rights. This will spark debate on how legal systems can evolve to recognize the intrinsic value of the natural world.
HIGHLIGHT SESSIONS AND SPEAKERS
1. Gary Tyler: Art as Redemption
Gary Tyler, an artist and activist, will share his remarkable journey. Wrongfully convicted at the age of 16, Tyler spent 42 years in prison. Art helped him reclaim his identity and express emotions suppressed by confinement. His one-on-one session will delve into his path to healing and the power of art as a means of redemption.
2. The Rising Threats to LGBTQI+ Rights
A critical panel will examine the growing global threats to the safety and rights of LGBTQI+ individuals. Experts will discuss the role of governments, civil society, and businesses in creating safe, inclusive environments that protect LGBTQI+ lives worldwide.
3. Water Access and Sanitation
With 3.5 billion people lacking safe sanitation, a vital session will address the pressing need for equitable solutions. These solutions aim to improve both water access and sanitation. Experts will highlight innovative approaches to ensuring clean water for all. They will also address the connection between water access and public health.
INCLUSIVE VOICES AND PERSPECTIVES
Open Forum Davos prides itself on being an inclusive platform, embracing diverse voices from all walks of life. Panels will feature perspectives from individuals of varying ages, genders, and backgrounds, including indigenous voices, academic leaders, and activists. These diverse viewpoints will ensure that the dialogue is rich and comprehensive.
NOTABLE PANELLISTS
This year’s Open Forum Davos will feature prominent figures from various sectors:
- Islam Alijaj, Member of the Swiss Parliament
- Misty Copeland, Founder of Misty Copeland Foundation and Principal Ballerina at ABT
- Gary Tyler, Artist and Activist
- Fatou Jeng, Climate Adviser to the UN Secretary-General
- Rosmarie Wydler-Wälti, Die Klimaseniorinnen
- Jin Xing, Choreographer and Founder of Jin Xing Dance Theatre Shanghai
- Anges Callamard, Secretary-General, Amnesty International
- Mindahi Bastida, Earth Elders
- Katherine Garret-Cox, CEO of Asset Management, Gulf International Bank
- Amitabh Behar, Executive Director, Oxfam International
- Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director, UN-Habitat
Looking Ahead: Annual Meeting 2025
The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025 will follow the Open Forum, from January 20-24, 2025, in Davos-Klosters. Under the theme “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” the event will focus on the role of technology in shaping a sustainable, inclusive future.
