Global Risks Report 2024: Misinformation, conflict, and environmental perils at the forefront

The Global Risks Report 2024 underscores the risks posed by AI-driven misinformation and disinformation, which are closely linked with societal polarization. (Representative Image)

The Global Risks Report 2024, released on January 10 by the World Economic Forum, delves into some of the most serious threats that the world may see in the coming years, considering the impact of technological advancements, economic instability, climate change, and armed conflict.

Worries about an enduring cost-of-living crisis and the threats posed by AI-driven misinformation, disinformation, and societal polarization took center stage.

The key findings from the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Perception Survey, which collected opinions from approximately 1,500 specialists worldwide in industry, government, academia, and civil society, are outlined below.

Misinformation and societal polarization

The report underscores the risks posed by AI-driven misinformation and disinformation, which are closely linked with societal polarization. As major economies gear up for elections in the next two years, the nexus between falsified information and potential societal unrest takes center stage.

Interstate armed conflict

Immediate concerns center around the risk of interstate armed conflict. The report notes that ongoing conflicts, coupled with underlying geopolitical tensions pose the risk of conflict contagion.

Economic uncertainty

The report anticipates persistent economic uncertainty and widening economic and technological gaps in the coming years. Over the longer term, a significant portion of the population may face challenges accessing economic opportunities, potentially leading to societal issues. The report says countries with a history of conflict or vulnerability to climate change may face growing isolation from investment, technologies, and job opportunities. In the absence of secure livelihood options, individuals may be prone to crime, militarization, or radicalization.

Cost of living crisis

A persistent cost-of-living crisis, as per the report, may lead to uncertainties in the global economic stability. Inflation and economic downturn have emerged as noteworthy additions to the top risks.

Environmental risks

The report emphasizes the continued dominance of environmental risks on the global stage. Extreme weather events, critical shifts in Earth systems, biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse, natural resource shortages, and pollution emerge as severe risks over the next decade.

WEF's Davos Summit 2024 scheduled for January 15-19

The 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum is set to take place from January 15 to 19 in Davos.

Participants from more than 100 countries, prominent international organizations, 1000 Forum Partners, leaders from civil society, academics, youth representatives, social entrepreneurs, and members of the media are anticipated to be present at this Annual Meeting.

The theme for this year's Davos Annual Meeting is 'From Lab to Life: Science in Action'.