The truth about moving the World Economic Forum from Davos: Official response and details for 2026
André Hoffmann, co-chair of the World Economic Forum, put an end to recent speculation about the future of the world's premier annual gathering, categorically denying reports that the event might be moved from its historic venue in the Swiss resort of Davos. This confirmation effectively closes the door on rumors that had sparked considerable debate in economic and political circles in recent days.
The controversy was sparked by comments made last week by Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, who suggested the forum needed to adopt a more open approach to exploring new ideas, hinting at the possibility of seeking alternative venues for the meeting. The Financial Times fueled these speculations with a report that Fink had discussed, informally, options for rotating the annual meeting among different global capitals and cities instead of holding it permanently in Switzerland.
A historical relationship and deep roots
To understand the significance of this denial, one must consider the historical context of the forum, founded by Klaus Schwab in 1971. The small ski resort in the Swiss Alps has become a symbol of globalization and international cooperation, with the term "Davos Man" now synonymous with the global economic elite. For over five decades, the forum has only left its headquarters once, in 2002, when it convened in New York in solidarity with the United States following the September 11 attacks. This underscores that the connection between the forum and its location transcends mere geography, reflecting a deeply ingrained institutional identity.
Strategic and logistical importance
The insistence on Davos stems not only from nostalgia but also from complex logistical and security considerations. The Swiss government provides a robust security umbrella that is difficult to replicate with the same efficiency and impartiality elsewhere, in addition to infrastructure that has been adapted over decades to accommodate thousands of leaders and journalists in a compact geographical area, thus fostering opportunities for direct interaction. Furthermore, keeping the forum in Switzerland guarantees the political neutrality necessary to bring opposing sides together at one table, a neutrality that could be jeopardized if the meeting were rotated among countries with divergent political agendas.
Agenda for the Future: Davos 2026
In preparation for the future, the date for the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (Davos 2026) has been confirmed, scheduled to take place from January 19 to 23, 2026. This edition is expected to feature in-depth discussions centered on five vital strategic themes, including strengthening international cooperation amid geopolitical tensions, stimulating new sources of economic growth, investing intensively in human capital, ensuring the responsible deployment of technological innovations, and striving to build global prosperity while respecting the environmental limits of the planet.
