The Davos man. Can you picture him? He’s just arrived at the World Economic Forum’s 54th annual meeting and is taking a pair of snow boots out of his suitcase. He’s wearing an expensive puffer coat over a suit and tie and has his cashmere beanie in a pocket. He’s white. He’s rich. Can he really be a force for change to solve the world’s most pressing challenges?
Taking a pop at the trope of the Davos man is great fun and not without foundation. But clichés aside, the WEF annual meeting has worked hard to evolve into a forum which can meaningfully impact global development and be less “global north” about it.
While still very far from being inclusive, WEF organizers are now giving a greater voice to those who may not represent conventional big money but are from rapidly growing regions with burgeoning demand and young labor forces, who represent an increasing share of the world’s population. They’ve also been giving increasing focus to social issues.
About the authors
Kathryn Nwajiaku-Dahou
Kathryn Nwajiaku-Dahou is the director of politics and governance at ODI global affairs thinktank.
Helen Alderson
Helen Alderson is a trustee at ODI. Her previous roles include member of International Committee of the Red Cross’ executive board and CEO of the World Heart Federation.
