As the 56th World Economic Forum opens in Davos this week, global attention focuses on high-stakes diplomacy and conspicuous absences shaping 2026's geopolitical landscape. With 60 world leaders and 3,000 delegates from 130 countries attending, the Alpine forum becomes a barometer for international cooperation amid escalating conflicts.
The Chinese delegation, led by Vice Premier He Lifeng, arrives as Asia's most watched contingent. His Tuesday morning address is anticipated to outline China's economic vision following recent market reforms. The US delegation, headed by President Donald Trump, brings heightened anticipation after tariff threats against European allies over Greenland disputes.
Notable European attendees include European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and France's Emmanuel Macron, while Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepares for critical sideline talks with US officials. Russia's representation comes through special envoy Kirill Dmitriev rather than President Vladimir Putin.
The forum's absentees tell their own story: Iran's canceled participation follows domestic unrest, while Denmark's withdrawal reflects escalating Greenland tensions. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez canceled after a tragic rail accident claimed 39 lives.
Beyond political leaders, the gathering hosts influential figures from global finance and tech, including WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. Their closed-door discussions may prove pivotal for 2026's economic trajectory as markets navigate energy transitions and AI governance challenges.
