UAE's Gift To The World: Mohammed Al Gergawi Advocates For Future Agility And Sustainability

The 2024 Annual Meeting of Global Future Councils (AMGFC24) commenced in Dubai, overseen by H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The event, hosted by the UAE Government in collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF), runs from 15-17 October. It gathers experts and leaders from 80 nations to influence the agenda for the 2025 WEF Annual Meeting in Davos.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Co-Chair of the Global Future Councils, emphasised adaptability in his opening speech. He stated: "The primary measure of success for countries, societies and individuals is their agility and ability to adapt. Governments and societies must be able to adapt to change and embrace new ideas." He urged a reevaluation of global convictions on economic, geopolitical, social, and environmental matters.

Al Gergawi highlighted both advancements and setbacks globally. Since the late 1980s, global economic output has nearly tripled, lifting around 1.5 billion people from extreme poverty. However, recent geopolitical tensions challenge the idea that prosperity ensures stability. He also noted technology's role in answering questions about space and science while transforming education, health, finance, and media.

Despite technological progress, Al Gergawi warned about digital exclusion affecting many worldwide. He remarked: "Recent years have proved that sustainability can be an engine for economic growth. More than 13 million jobs have been created by the renewable energy sector and the green economy is now valued at more than US$7 trillion, making it the second fastest growing sector after technology."

Professor Klaus Schwab also addressed attendees, urging optimism despite current global challenges. He noted a shift from a stable global order to a multipolar world filled with conflicts: "If people believe [the] future will not be better, then the basic narrative of humankind always to prepare for a better future is lost. This is one of the biggest dangers we have in the world."

Schwab underscored AMGFC24's significance: "The Global Future Councils have become a major global force, a systemic force integrating all dimensions of life to shape the future." He stressed designing a hopeful future requires addressing interconnected political, economic, social, environmental, and technological issues.

Shaping a Resilient Future

The WEF’s Global Future Councils serve as a key knowledge network aimed at fostering resilience and inclusivity worldwide. Members offer strategic insights and scientific evidence on pressing issues to promote transformative ideas for a sustainable future.

This gathering underscores the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders to navigate complex global challenges effectively while striving for progress across various sectors.

With inputs from WAM