Navigating the Global Risk Landscape: Insights from the Global Risks Report 2025

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As the world faces unprecedented challenges, the Global Risks Report 2025 from the World Economic Forum highlights pressing issues that will shape the global landscape in the years ahead. Drawing insights from the Global Risks Perception Survey (2024-2025), the report provides a sobering look at short-term and long-term risks, from geopolitical tensions to environmental threats. Here’s what we can learn from the findings.

The Decline in Optimism

The survey reveals a growing pessimism about the global outlook. Nearly two-thirds of respondents foresee a turbulent or stormy global landscape by 2035, with only 1% expecting calm conditions in the short term (2 years). This sentiment underscores the challenges governments, businesses, and individuals face in an increasingly uncertain world.

Top Risks for 2025

The report identifies state-based armed conflict as the most critical global risk for 2025, with nearly one-quarter of respondents ranking it as their top concern. This reflects escalating geopolitical tensions and the potential for conflict to disrupt global stability.

Other notable short-term risks include:

1. Extreme weather events – Environmental crises continue to dominate, with natural disasters growing in frequency and severity.

2. Geoeconomic confrontation – Trade wars and economic rivalries threaten international collaboration.

3. Misinformation and disinformation – For the second consecutive year, this societal issue ranks as the most significant short-term risk, reflecting the challenges of managing trust and information in the digital age.

4. Societal polarisation – Deepening divisions within and between societies pose significant challenges for cohesion and progress.

The Long-Term View: Environmental Risks Dominate

Looking 10 years ahead, the focus shifts to environmental concerns. The top-ranked risks include:

1. Extreme weather events

2. Biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse

3. Natural resource shortages

4. Critical changes to Earth’s systems

These findings highlight the urgent need for coordinated action on climate change and sustainable development. Failure to address these risks could lead to catastrophic consequences for the planet and its inhabitants.

A Fragmented Global Political Environment

The report paints a concerning picture of the future of international relations. By 2035, 64% of respondents anticipate a multipolar or fragmented order in which middle and great powers contest and enforce regional rules. Only a small minority (8%) foresee a continuation or reinvigoration of the US-led, rules-based international order.

This fragmentation raises doubts about the global community’s ability to tackle shared challenges such as climate change, cyber threats, and economic inequality. Deepening divisions may hinder the collaboration needed to address these issues effectively.

The Role of Technology in Emerging Risks

The increasing prevalence of cyber risks, such as cyber espionage and warfare, highlights the vulnerabilities of digital infrastructure. As technology continues to evolve, managing these risks will require robust security measures and international cooperation.

Key Takeaways

The Global Risks Report 2025 provides a stark reminder of the complex challenges facing humanity. To navigate this turbulent future:

• Governments and organisations must act now to address short-term risks such as geopolitical tensions and misinformation.

• Long-term environmental sustainability must remain a priority, with investment in renewable energy, biodiversity preservation, and disaster resilience.

• International collaboration must be strengthened, even in a fragmented world, to tackle shared challenges effectively.

The findings are a call to action for leaders across sectors to embrace innovation, collaboration, and resilience in the face of uncertainty.

What Organisations Should Do From a Risk Management Perspective

To effectively navigate the risks outlined in the report, organisations must adopt a proactive and strategic approach to risk management. This begins with embedding resilience into core business operations by conducting regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and emerging threats. Organisations should prioritise diversifying supply chains, investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, and implementing sustainable practices to mitigate environmental risks. Furthermore, fostering a culture of agility and collaboration—both internally and across industries—will enable quicker responses to crises. Leveraging advanced data analytics and AI-driven tools can also enhance risk forecasting, helping organisations stay ahead of geopolitical, technological, and societal disruptions. Ultimately, aligning risk management strategies with broader organisational goals will ensure preparedness while driving long-term value.

For a deeper dive into these pressing issues, access the full report at wef.ch/risks25.