Every January, the World Economic Forum gathers the globe’s top business and political figures in Davos, Switzerland for a week of panels and networking. The 2026 gathering launches in a few days, but a scandal that marred last year’s summit still looms, and skeptics question whether the forum can stay relevant in a rapidly shifting economic climate.

FT correspondent Mercedes Ruehl outlines the challenges the WEF faces, from accusations of elite capture to criticism over its handling of controversial figures such as Donald Trump. Recent reports note that Microsoft and McKinsey each pledged up to $1 million to support a Trump‑linked Davos hub, fueling debate over the forum’s political neutrality.

Founder Klaus Schwab has defended the summit’s mission, arguing that dialogue among leaders remains essential for addressing climate, technology and inequality. Observers will watch whether the agenda shifts toward concrete policy proposals or stays in the realm of high‑level talk, a test that could determine the forum’s future credibility.