World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024
In the picturesque setting of the Swiss Alpine School in Davos, the Open Forum Davos is poised to take the spotlight from January 15 to 19, 2024, as part of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. Themed “From Life to Lab: Science in Action,” this public event is designed to ignite dialogue among thought leaders, dissecting critical global concerns through the lens of science.
Diverse Topics Under the Microscope
The program is a mosaic of scientific exploration, delving into a spectrum of topics. From discussions on the dynamics of openness and trust in science to addressing pressing global challenges like air pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change, the agenda is ambitious. Moreover, it will explore disruptive innovations in research and development, the intricacies of the science of aging, gender research in medicine, and the urgent need for cybersecurity preparedness.
Notable Sessions and Discussions
- A one-on-one with UN Messenger of Peace Jane Goodall on overcoming global crises.
- Discussions on collaboration between science and biodiversity.
- “Primer on AI” addressing the growth of artificial intelligence with an emphasis on inclusivity and ethical solutions.
- Panel discussion featuring will.i.am, Alexandra Reeve Givens, and student Alex Oster on ensuring AI benefits everyone.
- French Turkish artist Yaman Okur presenting a short film on the 1999 Türkiye earthquake, exploring the role of art in fostering resilience.
Insights on Arctic Collapse
A collaboration with Arctic Basecamp’s Gail Whiteman will bring forth a session titled “On Thin Ice,” addressing the irreversible collapse of Arctic summer sea ice. Panellists will engage in discussions on the far-reaching consequences of accelerated global warming and the increased incidence of extreme weather events in the northern hemisphere.
Digital Einstein: An Interactive Experience
At the entrance to the Open Forum, “Digital Einstein,” an interactive platform developed by researchers at ETH Zurich, will steal the limelight. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to engage with the Nobel Prize-winning scientist and immerse themselves in the captivating world of science.
Voices from Every Corner
Open Forum Davos is committed to inclusivity. Its panels embrace a diverse range of voices, spanning different ages, genders, and backgrounds. Traditional academic perspectives converge with indigenous voices, fostering a truly comprehensive and inclusive dialogue.
Program Schedule: A Week of Scientific Discourse
The week-long program is structured to cover a wide array of topics, ensuring a deep dive into the realms of science and its intersection with societal challenges.
- Monday 15 January: Liberating Science
- Tuesday 16 January: Take a Deep Breath with Technology, Medicine and Women, R&D Disrupted
- Wednesday 17 January: Speaking Truth to Power, Sustaining Life on Earth, A Primer on AI
- Thursday 18 January: Cracking the Code, On Thin Ice, Resilience in Motion
- Friday 19 January: Turning Back the Clock
About Open Forum Davos
Founded in 2003, the Open Forum Davos is rooted in a series of public sessions co-organized by the World Economic Forum and civil society groups, including churches, fair trade organizations, and the Swiss Red Cross. Over the years, it has evolved into a key platform facilitating societal discourse, where diverse voices converge to share thoughts and experiences on pressing and controversial issues. This collaborative effort continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the dialogue around the intersection of science and society.
