Davos Evolves into Western Geopolitical Forum as China Expands Global Influence
The recently concluded World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos has sparked significant debate about its evolving nature and global relevance. What was once celebrated as a premier platform for international economic dialogue appears to be transforming into a forum dominated by Western geopolitical tensions, while China quietly expands its influence through alternative channels.
High-Profile Attendance Masks Shifting Dynamics
The 2026 Davos gathering featured an impressive roster of global leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Argentine President Javier Milei, and notably, US President Donald Trump. Despite this star-studded lineup, the meeting's substance revealed troubling trends about its direction and purpose.
Transatlantic Tensions Dominate Discourse
The shadow of President Trump's policies loomed large over the entire event, with discussions frequently veering into geopolitical conflicts rather than economic cooperation. Key topics included tariffs, US-EU trade relations, NATO commitments, the Ukraine situation, and even the status of Greenland. These subjects highlighted growing tensions between traditional Western allies, particularly between Europe and the United States.
European leaders expressed clear frustration with American policies. Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for Europe to develop greater independence in response to what she termed "geopolitical shocks" caused by Trump's approach. She warned that deteriorating transatlantic relations would benefit adversaries both sides aim to counter.
President Macron, speaking while wearing dark glasses due to an eye infection, delivered pointed criticism without directly naming Trump: "We do prefer respect to bullies. And we do prefer rule of law to brutality." He committed to building a stronger, more autonomous Europe in response to current challenges.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed what he described as the breakdown of international order, stating: "If we are not at the table, we are on the menu." He called for middle powers to unite against economic coercion and warned of a new reality where great power geopolitics faces few constraints.
Trump's Unapologetic Response
President Trump responded forcefully to his critics during a blistering hour-long speech. He defended his positions on Greenland, NATO, and tariffs with characteristic directness. Unlike European leaders who avoided naming him directly, Trump employed personal jabs against his counterparts.
Regarding Macron's sunglasses, Trump quipped: "I watched him with those beautiful sunglasses. What the hell happened?" To Carney, he bluntly stated: "Canada lives because of the United States. Remember that, Mark, the next time you make your statements."
On the Greenland issue, Trump referenced World War II history, suggesting the United States was "stupid to give it back to Denmark" after defending it from Nazi forces. He also criticized NATO allies for what he perceived as insufficient contributions, lamenting: "We give so much, and we get so little in return."
Geopolitical Theater Overshadows Economic Agenda
The Davos meeting increasingly resembled a platform for Western strategic conflicts rather than its stated economic purpose. Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared to capitalize on these divisions by supporting Trump's position on Greenland, possibly hoping to divert European attention from Ukraine. Putin reminded Denmark of its 1917 sale of the Virgin Islands to the United States, subtly suggesting similar arrangements might be possible for Greenland.
China's Quiet Ascent in Global Forum Space
While Western powers engaged in public disputes at Davos, China has been steadily expanding its influence through alternative international forums. Events like the Boao Forum for Asia (often called "Asian Davos") and the Annual Meeting of the New Champions ("Summer Davos") are attracting growing participation from Global South nations.
As Davos becomes increasingly irrelevant for many developing countries, more are turning to Chinese-led forums that offer focused discussions on practical economic, trade, and development issues. These platforms provide what Davos increasingly lacks: substantive dialogue about shared economic challenges without being overshadowed by Western geopolitical conflicts.
Limited Takeaways for the Global Majority
One of the most conspicuous aspects of this year's Davos meeting was its limited relevance for much of the world. Even panel discussions featuring CEOs, executives, and public intellectuals were overwhelmingly dominated by Western companies and perspectives. This imbalance raises serious questions about the forum's ability to address global economic challenges in an inclusive manner.
The transformation of Davos from a World Economic Forum to what increasingly resembles a Western Geopolitical Forum summit represents a significant shift in global dialogue platforms. As Borge Brende and his team consider the future of the World Economic Forum, they must address whether the organization can reclaim its original economic mission or will continue evolving into a stage for Western political conflicts.
Meanwhile, China's growing influence through alternative forums suggests that the global economic conversation is diversifying, with developing nations seeking platforms that better address their specific needs and priorities. This trend may fundamentally reshape how international economic cooperation is discussed and negotiated in the coming years.
