The stage is set for the 2025 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), taking place from January 20-24 in the scenic alpine town of Davos, Switzerland. With global attention on the event, here’s what’s on the agenda for this year’s high-stakes discussions.

This year’s gathering, themed “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” promises to be a pivotal moment for global leadership. As over 3,000 influential figures from more than 130 countries converge on the Swiss mountains, the focus will be on addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, including geo-economic instability, AI innovation, sustainable growth, and climate change.

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Despite the complex global climate of rising tensions and uncertainties, the Forum also brings an optimistic outlook, with breakthrough technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotech offering new avenues for progress.

What to Expect At Davos 2025

As ever, the diversity of participants will be a hallmark of this year’s event. With over 350 political leaders, including 60 heads of state, the meeting will feature voices from every corner of the globe.

According to the WEF, the forum’s approach underscores the importance of this diversity, ensuring that the world’s most critical issues are examined from a multitude of perspectives, fostering solutions that take into account a broad spectrum of industries, generations, and genders.

Key Political Figures At Davos 2025

Among the most high-profile figures attending are:

• Donald J. Trump, President-elect of the United States, will engage in an interactive discussion via live video link.
• Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission,
• Ding Xuexiang, Vice-Premier of the People’s Republic of China,
• Javier Milei, President of Argentina,
• Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of Germany,
• Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament,
• Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa,
• Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain.

Additionally, the summit will host several key global figures such as Karin Keller-Sutter, President of the Swiss Confederation 2025; Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia; and Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, among others.

The event will also feature prominent leaders from Israel, Ireland, Ukraine, and the Palestinian National Authority, including Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, who is set to address attendees amid the ongoing geopolitical challenges in his country.

Leaders of International Organizations

Not to be overlooked, key figures from international organizations will also attend, including:

• António Guterres, UN Secretary-General,
• Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization,
• Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF,
• Mark Rutte, Secretary-General of NATO.
• Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, and Achim Steiner, Administrator of the UN Development Programme, will also be present.

Business Leaders and Innovators

The private sector will be well-represented, with over 1,600 business leaders attending, including more than 900 top CEOs and chairs from the Forum’s members and partners. Expect a strong presence of Global Innovators, Tech Pioneers, and Unicorns who are revolutionizing industries. This year, over 120 of them will showcase their groundbreaking contributions to the world.

Moreover, over 170 civil society leaders from labor unions, NGOs, and religious and indigenous communities will be present, alongside experts and heads of top universities and think tanks. They will bring local innovations to the table, offering solutions to global issues.

With such a broad spectrum of participants, Davos 2025 promises to be an intense and action-packed meeting, where crucial decisions on the future of the global economy, technology, and sustainability will be made. The outcome of this year’s discussions could have far-reaching implications for global politics, economics, and societal progress.

The Power of Diversity in Action

The World Economic Forum in Davos has long been a space for collaboration and dialogue, and the diversity of its attendees ensures that no stone is left unturned in addressing the challenges we face. As the world continues to navigate uncertain waters, the decisions made here will shape the coming years. The question is: will leaders at Davos 2025 rise to the occasion, or will they become entangled in the complexities of a rapidly changing world? Only time will tell.

As TikTok faces increasing scrutiny over its ties to China, several countries are taking decisive action. While the US may be the first to enforce an outright ban, many other nations have already taken steps to restrict TikTok on government devices, citing national security concerns. These actions were prompted by fears that the app’s data collection practices could expose sensitive information, given its ownership by the Chinese tech giant ByteDance.

Why Is TikTok Under Scrutiny?

TikTok has consistently denied accusations that it collects more user data than other social media platforms, dismissing the bans as “basic misinformation.” The company insists it operates independently and does not share user data with the Chinese government. Despite these claims, many countries remain wary of TikTok’s connections to China, a nation with strict data privacy laws that affect foreign tech companies operating there.

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In fact, several Western companies, including Airbnb, Yahoo, and LinkedIn, have either scaled down or entirely pulled out of China in response to the country’s rigorous privacy regulations, which dictate how companies must handle user data.

As tensions continue to rise around TikTok’s presence, it’s clear that national security concerns are driving many governments to reconsider their approach to the app. Here’s a look at the countries that have taken action against TikTok, and the reasons behind their decisions.

United States

The United States has been at the center of the debate surrounding TikTok’s potential national security risks. The US Supreme Court recently upheld a law that mandates the app’s ban unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sells it. The core concerns stem from data privacy issues and the fear that TikTok could be used for espionage, given its links to China.

However, the situation has become more complicated with former President Donald Trump stepping in. He is attempting to reverse the proposed ban and bring TikTok back to the US. As the country prepares for a nationwide ban, it remains to be seen whether this move will proceed under President Joe Biden or be halted by Trump’s intervention as he returns for his second term. Despite these ongoing legal challenges, the US stands on the brink of becoming the first nation to impose a full ban on the platform.

Albania

Albania’s government issued a one-year ban on TikTok in 2024, citing concerns over rising violence and bullying among young people. Prime Minister Edi Rama blamed the platform for fueling negative behavior and announced the app would be blocked nationwide starting in 2025, despite no direct security concerns regarding China.

Australia

Australia banned TikTok from all government devices in April 2023 due to concerns over the app’s data collection practices and potential foreign interference. The government argued that the app posed risks from Chinese government influence through data access and espionage.

Estonia

Estonia imposed a ban on TikTok for public officials’ smartphones in March 2023. This ban followed concerns raised by the country’s intelligence services, though it only applied to government-issued devices. Estonia also looked into TikTok’s potential role in influencing elections within the EU.

United Kingdom

The UK government took a precautionary approach by banning TikTok from official government devices in March 2023. The decision came after the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre issued a report warning about potential risks to sensitive government data on platforms like TikTok.

European Union

Major EU institutions, including the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the EU Council, banned TikTok on staff devices in 2023. These measures were taken to protect sensitive data and prevent security breaches. The European Commission also launched an investigation into TikTok for potential violations of the Digital Services Act.

France

France prohibited the use of TikTok and other “recreational” apps like Netflix and Instagram on the work phones of civil servants in March 2023. The French government cited cybersecurity risks, stating that these apps posed threats to data protection within public administration.

The Netherlands

In March 2023, the Dutch government advised against using apps from countries with aggressive cyber programs, like China, on government-issued devices. While not specifically naming TikTok, this advisory reflected concerns about espionage and data protection.

Norway

Norway followed suit by banning TikTok from work phones in March 2023, citing risks of espionage, disinformation, and potential influence from foreign actors like Russia and China. The ban applied to government employees but allowed for limited use under strict conditions.

Belgium

In March 2023, Belgium imposed a six-month ban on TikTok for government employees due to concerns about data privacy and security risks. Belgium’s cybersecurity services warned that TikTok could manipulate algorithms to spread misinformation, leading to the suspension of the app from official devices.

Denmark

Denmark banned TikTok from government devices in March 2023 due to concerns over cybersecurity and espionage. The decision followed a report from the country’s foreign intelligence service, which deemed the app a security risk.

Canada

Canada’s federal government ordered TikTok to cease operations in the country in November 2023, citing concerns over foreign interference and privacy issues. The government also banned the app from government-issued devices, warning that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government.

New Zealand

New Zealand banned TikTok on the phones of government lawmakers in March 2023. However, this restriction did not apply to all government workers, affecting about 500 people in the parliamentary complex. The government has stated that it has no current plans for a nationwide ban.

India

India became one of the first major countries to ban TikTok in 2020, along with dozens of other Chinese apps. This decision came after a border clash between India and China, and the ban was made permanent in 2021. The government cited privacy and national security concerns as the main reasons.

Taiwan

Taiwan imposed a ban on TikTok and other Chinese apps for public sector devices in December 2022, following warnings from the FBI about national security risks. The ban is part of broader efforts to limit Chinese influence in Taiwan’s digital landscape.

Pakistan

Pakistan has temporarily banned TikTok at least four times since 2020, citing concerns that the platform promotes immoral or inappropriate content. The government has often reversed these bans, but the platform remains subject to scrutiny.

Afghanistan

In 2022, Afghanistan’s Taliban government banned TikTok and the online game PUBG, claiming the platforms misled and distracted the youth. The ban reflects the Taliban’s control over digital spaces and their efforts to limit content deemed harmful to their regime.

TikTok’s global struggles continue to unfold, as governments weigh the balance between data security, foreign influence, and the platform’s cultural impact. The app’s ability to navigate these challenges will determine its future in many key markets around the world.

TikTok began restoring access for U.S. users on Sunday, following a pledge by President-elect Donald Trump to reinstate the platform’s operations as he prepared to take office. Speaking at a rally before his inauguration, Trump emphasized the importance of the app’s return, stating, “Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it.” He also hinted at plans for a joint venture to secure TikTok’s presence, a platform used by 170 million Americans.

Hours before the rally, TikTok informed its users about the positive developments, attributing the app’s revival to Trump’s efforts. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, TikTok is back for U.S. users,” read the company’s message. While some users regained access to limited services on the app, the full platform remained unavailable for download on app stores as of late Sunday.

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TikTok acknowledged ongoing efforts with service providers to restore operations fully. In a statement, the company expressed gratitude to Trump for ensuring clarity and protection for its service providers. This assurance, TikTok noted, was crucial in allowing its operations to continue without legal risks. The platform also highlighted its role in supporting over 7 million small businesses across the U.S.

Tensions Amid U.S.-China Relations

TikTok’s revival comes against the backdrop of strained ties between the U.S. and China. While Trump has indicated plans to impose tariffs on China, he also expressed interest in fostering direct communication with the Chinese leadership. Addressing the matter, China’s foreign ministry stated its hope for a fair and open business environment in the U.S. for international companies like TikTok.

TikTok had gone offline for U.S. users late Saturday following the implementation of a law banning its operations over national security concerns. Officials cited fears that user data could be accessed by ByteDance, the app’s Chinese parent company, and misused. In response, Trump announced plans to delay the enforcement of the law, creating an opportunity to negotiate a deal ensuring national security.

On his social platform, Truth Social, Trump suggested the U.S. take a 50% ownership stake in a joint venture overseeing TikTok’s U.S. operations. He also assured companies supporting the app’s continued availability that they would face no legal liabilities.

Divided Opinions On TikTok’s Return

Trump’s intervention marks a notable shift from his earlier stance during his first term in office when he sought to ban TikTok entirely over privacy concerns. In contrast, he now credits the app for helping him connect with young voters during the 2024 presidential election. However, not all members of Trump’s Republican Party agree with his actions. Senators Tom Cotton and Pete Ricketts have criticized the move, stating that only a complete severance of ties between ByteDance and the Chinese government would satisfy legal requirements.

The law passed by Congress grants the U.S. government the authority to ban or require divestitures of Chinese-owned apps, a move that has already affected other ByteDance properties like CapCut and Lemon8, which were also removed from U.S. app stores.

A “Hair On Fire” Moment For Businesses

The temporary shutdown of TikTok sent shockwaves across industries reliant on the platform. Marketing agencies scrambled to develop contingency plans, with one executive describing the situation as a “hair on fire” crisis. Meanwhile, U.S. users flocked to VPN searches, hoping to bypass restrictions, and e-commerce sellers worried about delayed transactions on TikTok Shop.

During the turmoil, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration and a rally, signalling the company’s support for the deal. Meanwhile, interest in TikTok’s U.S. operations is growing, with names like Elon Musk and former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt reportedly exploring acquisition opportunities. A U.S. tech startup, Perplexity AI, has also submitted a proposal to merge with TikTok’s U.S. branch and create a new entity involving other partners.

Despite the upheaval, TikTok’s path forward may cement its place as a dominant social media platform in the U.S., backed by President Trump’s evolving approach to its operations and the broader landscape of U.S.-China tech relations.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has once again earned the title of the World’s Busiest International Airport with a total of 60.2 million seats in 2024. This follows its similar achievements in 2023 and 2019, underscoring the UAE’s strategic position in global aviation. DXB’s capacity saw a significant 7% year-on-year growth compared to 2023, as well as a 12% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

OAG’s report, which calculates the busiest airports based on international airline capacity, placed DXB in the lead, with Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) coming in second overall when including both domestic and international flights. The rankings highlight DXB’s role in shaping the global aviation sector, aided by the UAE’s efficient infrastructure and positioning as a key air traffic hub.

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Top 10 Busiest International Airports In 2024

Following DXB, London Heathrow Airport (LHR) secured the second spot with 48.4 million seats, marking a 4% increase in capacity from 2023. Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) made an impressive leap, moving up four places to claim third with 41.6 million seats, reflecting a 24% capacity growth compared to 2023.

Other notable airports in the top 10 include Singapore Changi (SIN) in fourth place with 41.5 million seats, and Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) in fifth with 40 million. Istanbul Airport (IST) showed the most substantial growth in capacity among the top 10, increasing by 20% to reach 38.6 million seats, securing sixth place.

Noteworthy Changes In Rankings

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) followed in seventh place with 38.5 million seats, while Frankfurt Airport (FRA) ranked eighth with 35.7 million. Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) had the most significant year-on-year capacity increase in the top 10, up by 40%, although still 23% behind 2019 levels. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) rounded out the top 10 with 32.5 million seats, experiencing a 13% increase from 2023.

Global Overview: Top 10 Busiest Airports In 2024 (Including Both Domestic And International Flights)

The busiest airport globally in 2024 was Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL), with 62.7 million seats. It maintained its top position from 2023 and 2019, although capacity was up just 2% year-on-year and slightly down from 2019 by 1%. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) secured third place with 55.2 million seats, a 5% increase from 2023.

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) moved into fifth place, surpassing its pre-pandemic capacity by 18%. Denver International (DEN) saw the highest growth among the top 10, with a remarkable 24% capacity increase, moving it to sixth position.

Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) saw a 29% increase in capacity compared to 2023, largely driven by China’s post-pandemic recovery in air travel, propelling PVG from 15th in 2023 to 9th in 2024.

The rankings of the busiest airports reveal the resilience of global aviation and the recovery of regions like China, while also underscoring the growing importance of airports in the Middle East and North America. With substantial growth expected to continue, these airports will play a pivotal role in the global recovery and expansion of air travel in the coming years.

Google Pay is preparing for its launch in Saudi Arabia in 2025, offering users a secure and convenient way to make payments in stores, apps, and online. This move follows the signing of an agreement between Google and the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), which will see Google Pay integrated into the national payment system, mada.

The partnership aligns with SAMA’s ongoing initiatives to strengthen the Kingdom’s digital payment ecosystem as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. This commitment aims to reduce the reliance on cash and promote the adoption of advanced digital payment solutions that adhere to international standards.

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AI Hub To Boost Saudi Arabia’s Tech Ecosystem

In addition to Google Pay, the tech giant revealed plans in October 2024 to establish an advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) hub in Saudi Arabia. This move is designed to contribute to the nation’s economic growth and technological advancement, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal to diversify the economy through technology.

The AI hub is expected to generate up to $71 billion for the Saudi economy. This figure highlights the significant potential of advanced AI applications in sectors like healthcare, retail, and finance, not only in Saudi Arabia but across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. According to Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Google and Alphabet, the hub will fast-track AI integration, particularly in Arabic, to meet the specific needs of the region.

Collaboration With Local Stakeholders To Drive Industry Innovation

The AI hub is the result of collaboration between Google and key stakeholders in Saudi Arabia’s technology and investment sectors. It will focus on developing AI-powered solutions tailored to industries such as oil and gas, finance, healthcare, and logistics, helping to optimize processes and enhance economic resilience.

Yasir Al Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), emphasized that this partnership demonstrates the PIF’s commitment to building a tech-friendly ecosystem, investing in human capital, and equipping Saudi professionals with advanced tools for sustainable development.

Fostering Local Talent And Entrepreneurship

Central to this initiative is the focus on nurturing homegrown talent. The AI hub will offer training programs, research opportunities, and platforms for local developers, researchers, and startups, potentially benefiting millions of people. This ecosystem will not only drive innovation but also foster entrepreneurship, ensuring that economic benefits are felt throughout the Kingdom.

As global tech leaders shift their focus to localized solutions, Google’s initiative exemplifies a forward-looking approach that taps into regional strengths. With the AI hub’s potential to contribute billions to the economy and boost digital capabilities, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to become a regional leader in AI innovation.

As the New Year has already passed, many had eagerly anticipated a glass of bubbly to ring in the celebrations. However, this year, fewer bottles were available for toast, as production and exports of sparkling wine from the EU saw a sharp decline in 2023 due to the impact of extreme weather on vineyards.

According to the latest Eurostat data, the EU produced 1.496 billion litres of sparkling wine in 2023, a decrease of 8% compared to the previous year. Italy remained the leader in production, contributing 638 million litres, followed by France with 312 million litres and Germany with 263 million litres.

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In terms of exports, the EU shipped 600 million litres of sparkling wine to non-EU countries in 2023, marking another 8% drop. Italy’s Prosecco claimed the top spot in exports, representing nearly half of the total, while French Champagne followed at 15%, Spanish Cava at 10%, and sparkling wines from fresh grapes at 17%.

Climate Change’s Role In Production Decline

One of the key factors behind the production slump is the changing climate. Heavy rains, droughts, and storms, all exacerbated by climate change, are having a direct impact on vineyards, altering the taste of wine and, in some cases, threatening the very existence of certain varieties.

In Italy, extreme weather events and soil degradation have led to reduced grape yields, endangering Prosecco production, which is expected to decline by up to 20%. Similarly, Spain’s Cava is facing challenges from severe droughts, particularly in Catalonia, where many villages depend on water-intensive viticulture. Despite hopes that 2025 will bring more rainfall, major producers are urging the Spanish government to adopt irrigation solutions and other measures to address the growing threat of water shortages.

In response to the region’s chronic water shortages, Catalonia’s regional government has unveiled a €2.3 billion investment plan, set to span until 2040. The plan includes a €200 million seawater desalination plant on the Costa Brava, but financial backing from the Spanish government will be crucial for its success.

China’s economy grew by 5% in 2024, successfully meeting its official growth target of “around 5%” despite ongoing domestic and global hurdles. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, this growth was achieved following a series of stimulus measures introduced late last year, aimed at addressing both internal and external challenges.

A persistent property crisis, now in its fourth year, continues to weigh on the economy, with consumer spending remaining subdued as households prioritize saving amid economic uncertainties. On the global stage, China finds itself at odds with the US on issues ranging from advanced technologies to trade.

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The Chinese government’s efforts, including interest rate cuts, increased liquidity for banks, and a $1.4 trillion debt-swap program for local governments, began showing results in late 2024. Key sectors, such as industrial production, picked up pace as a result. In the final quarter of 2024, China’s GDP surged by 5.4%, exceeding expectations, with President Xi Jinping stressing the importance of hitting the country’s growth target.

Guo Shan, a partner at Hutong Research based in Shanghai, commented, “China’s Q4 data exceeded expectations, positioning the country to meet its annual growth goal.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Guo anticipates that China will aim for another 5% growth target, while Alicia Garcia Herrero, chief Asia Pacific economist at Natixis, notes that growth momentum might carry into the early part of the year. A strong export performance is expected as companies rush to ship goods abroad in anticipation of new tariffs under the incoming Trump administration.

However, Garcia Herrero also highlights the uncertainty surrounding China’s export outlook, which is complicated by rising geopolitical tensions. To further support the economy, the government may roll out additional fiscal stimulus, possibly allocating 1 trillion yuan ($137 billion) for social welfare initiatives and cash handouts to families with children, according to Hutong Research’s Guo.

He adds that Beijing is likely to announce a fiscal deficit target of around 4%, providing more funds for general public spending. “Whichever sector is lagging will likely receive additional support,” Guo says.

The global economy is projected to grow by 2.7% in 2025 and 2026, maintaining the same pace as in 2024, according to the latest report from the World Bank. This steady growth signals a phase of stabilization, with inflation and interest rates expected to gradually decrease.

For developing economies, growth is expected to remain resilient over the next two years, holding steady at around 4%. However, this growth is still constrained compared to pre-pandemic levels, raising concerns about the ongoing challenge of poverty reduction and broader development goals.

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The World Bank highlighted that developing economies, which account for 60% of global growth, are likely to conclude the first quarter of the 21st century with the weakest long-term growth prospects since 2000. The first decade of the century saw remarkable growth, but the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, along with other global challenges, has slowed down progress.

Economic integration has weakened, as foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows and GDP share in developing economies are now roughly half of what they were in the early 2000s. Meanwhile, global trade restrictions have surged in 2024, with new barriers reaching five times the average of the 2010-2019 period. As a result, global economic growth has diminished, dropping from 5.9% in the 2000s to 5.1% in the 2010s, and now to 3.5% in the 2020s.

In a statement, Indermit Gill, the World Bank’s chief economist, expressed concern over the future challenges facing developing economies: “The next 25 years will be tougher than the last 25. Most of the factors that once boosted their rise have faded. In their place, we now face tough headwinds: high debt, weak investment, slow productivity growth, and the escalating costs of climate change.”

The report also noted the potential impact of US President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to implement a 10% tariff across a wide range of imports. This could further hinder an already sluggish global economic recovery.

However, there is still hope for stronger-than-expected growth if the world’s largest economies, particularly the US and China, regain momentum.

The increasing importance of developing economies is evident in the shifting global economic landscape. Developing nations now represent 45% of global GDP, up from just 25% in 2000. This growth is largely driven by rapid urbanization, industrialization, and technology adoption in regions like Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Key factors fueling this expansion include the rise of the middle class, infrastructure development, and an expanding services sector. The World Bank reports that more than 40% of exports from developing economies now go to other developing nations, a significant increase from 20% in 2000. Additionally, these countries are becoming crucial sources of capital flows, remittances, and development aid to others.

M Ayhan Kose, the World Bank’s deputy chief economist, emphasized that developing economies must adopt bold, innovative policies to capitalize on new opportunities for cross-border cooperation amid a landscape shaped by policy uncertainty and escalating trade tensions.

The participation of young people in the global labour market is on a sharp decline, particularly in low-income countries, according to the latest report from the International Labour Organization (ILO). This worrying trend highlights a growing challenge: a generation increasingly disconnected from education, employment, and training.

Key Insights

• Rising NEET Generation: The number of young men classified as part of the NEET generation—neither in education, employment, nor training—has surged, particularly in low-income nations. The ILO reports a 4 percentage point increase in NEET rates among young men in these countries compared to pre-pandemic levels, leaving many vulnerable to economic instability.
  
• Gender Disparities Persist: Despite the challenges young men face, their labour market participation still outpaces that of young women. In low-income countries, over 20% of young men are not working or studying, but this figure climbs to a staggering 37% for young women.
  
• Global Employment Trends: On a broader scale, the global unemployment rate remains steady at 5%, similar to 2023 levels. However, youth unemployment far exceeds this, sitting at 12.6%—underscoring the disproportionate burden on younger generations.
  

Structural Challenges

The ILO report also emphasises a troubling return to pre-pandemic levels of informal employment and “in-work poverty.” These issues, combined with wage growth that has yet to fully offset the erosion of incomes due to inflation, signal persistent vulnerabilities for workers worldwide.

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Economic And Social Risks

The ILO warns that while central banks have managed to reduce inflation without triggering severe contractions in labour markets, further fiscal tightening could lead to significant social unrest. Declining wages and stalled progress on worker protections only exacerbate these risks.

ILO Recommendations

To combat the exclusion of young people from the labour market and address broader workforce challenges, the ILO suggests:

1. Investing in Education and Training: Expanding access to vocational education and upskilling opportunities to bridge the gap between education and employment.
2. Boosting Social Protections: Enhancing safety nets in low-income countries to provide a buffer against economic shocks.
3. Leveraging Diaspora Resources: Mobilising remittances and diaspora funding to spur local development.
4. Developing Infrastructure: Creating job opportunities by investing in infrastructure projects, particularly in underdeveloped regions.

Looking Ahead

As youth unemployment and labour market exclusion continue to rise, the stakes are high for governments, organisations, and international institutions. The ILO’s call to action underscores the urgency of addressing these issues to secure a more inclusive and sustainable economic future.

Meta has announced it will dismantle its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, marking a significant retreat from these programs under increasing scrutiny from conservative critics and public pushback.

In a memo sent to employees worldwide, Janelle Gale, Meta’s vice president of human resources, revealed the company’s plans to dissolve its DEI team, discontinue equity-driven hiring and supplier diversity programs, and reorient its approach to workplace inclusion. CNN obtained the memo, the contents of which were later confirmed by a Meta spokesperson.

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“The legal and policy environment around DEI initiatives in the U.S. is evolving,” Gale wrote. “Recent Supreme Court rulings signal a shift in how courts view these efforts, reinforcing principles that discrimination based on inherent traits must neither be tolerated nor encouraged.”

The memo also acknowledged that the term “DEI” has grown increasingly polarizing, with some critics equating it to preferential treatment for certain groups.

As part of this shift, Maxine Williams, Meta’s chief diversity officer, will transition to a new role centred on “accessibility and engagement.” The company is also scrapping its requirement for managers to source candidates from underrepresented groups and discontinuing initiatives to hire minority-owned vendors and suppliers.

“We’re committed to building exceptional teams by attracting the most talented individuals,” Gale explained. “That means considering diverse candidate pools without basing hiring decisions on protected characteristics such as race or gender.” Instead, the company plans to adopt programs that prioritise unbiased and equitable practices for all employees, regardless of background.

A Broader Strategic Repositioning

Meta’s decision to dismantle DEI programs coincides with other controversial shifts at the company that some interpret as aligning with right-leaning ideologies. Earlier this week, Meta announced the end of its third-party fact-checking operations in the U.S. and changes to its policies on hateful content, enabling users to post previously restricted material.

The timing of these moves raised eyebrows as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently met with President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. While Meta declined to comment on the meeting, Zuckerberg elaborated on his evolving perspective during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience.

Zuckerberg reflected on Meta’s trajectory, explaining how his views on free speech have transformed over the past decade. “The essence of social media is empowering people to share what they want,” he stated. “Our mission has always been to connect the world through open expression.”

However, he admitted that external pressures—ranging from the fallout of Donald Trump’s 2016 election victory to demands from the Biden administration during the pandemic—have shaped Meta’s policies.

“In the aftermath of 2016, I think we gave too much weight to voices in the media claiming misinformation was the only reason Trump won,” Zuckerberg said. “That perspective led us down a path where content moderation eroded trust in the platform.”

He also alleged that Meta faced intense pressure from the Biden administration to suppress content it deemed as misinformation during the pandemic, including memes questioning vaccine safety.

Navigating A Shifting Landscape

Meta’s move to step away from DEI reflects a broader cultural reckoning within corporate America, as companies grapple with polarising views on diversity and free speech. Whether this approach will help rebuild trust in the platform or spark further criticism remains to be seen. For now, Meta appears determined to redefine its role in shaping workplace culture and the digital public square.