VOICES OF HOPE TO REBUILD TRUST - Annual Meeting, WEF'24

Disinformation and Misinformation Crisis?

"We must seek to de-risk than decouple" - Ursula von der Leyen , President, EU Commission.

As per the World Economic Forum's Global Risk Report, disinformation and misinformation are major societal threats. The European Union (EU) faces a pressing Disinformation and Misinformation Crisis, particularly in the context of geopolitical challenges such as Sustainable Financing for Ukraine and the capabilities needed to anticipate future attacks by Russia. The region grapples with the deliberate spread of false information, undermining trust in institutions and hampering informed decision-making. As the EU navigates these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope in initiatives like the Digital Services Act, which addresses online disinformation and enhances accountability for digital platforms. It emphasizes the need for transparent and responsible practices in the digital sphere. Amidst these efforts, there is a call to "derisk" rather than "decouple," signaling the importance of managing risks without severing essential connections. This multifaceted approach underscores the complexity of combating disinformation and misinformation while maintaining strategic relationships and fostering a resilient information environment within the EU.

"So let’s be clear: Rebuilding Trust is not a slogan or a PR campaign. It requires deep reforms to global governance to manage geopolitical tensions during a new era of multipolarity.” Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General, United Nations

Breaking Geopolitical Barriers to Create Unity

The current global discourse revolves around the pressing issues of climate change and artificial intelligence, yet a unified international strategy remains elusive due to geopolitical divides hindering collective action. Trust is eroding on multiple fronts, exacerbated by neglecting nuclear disarmament as countries invest heavily in nuclear development. The call for a new multipolar global order underscores the need for collaborative frameworks and trust-building, as managing complexity requires multilateral approaches and international governance. Companies often prioritize their interests over the common good, contributing to growing economic disparities. The stark contrast between the immense wealth accumulation of the five wealthiest individuals, doubling their fortunes at an astonishing rate, and the widespread poverty in 75 countries fosters resentment and anger. The precarious nature of global support systems underscores the fragility of trust, emphasizing the imperative for collective action to instill hope and address these multifaceted challenges.

" The single biggest difference between those who will use it successfully and those who will not, I believe our leaders educating themselves" - Julie Sweet , CEO 埃森哲 .

Human Intelligence Empowered by Artificial Intelligence?

Julie Sweet , the CEO of 埃森哲 , advocates for the empowering role of AI in the workforce rather than its replacement. Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, Sweet emphasizes the importance of upskilling and reskilling efforts to harness the capabilities of this technology. Instead of viewing AI as a threat to jobs, Sweet contends that it should be leveraged to augment human capabilities and enhance productivity. Referring to the concept of "Gen AI," she acknowledges the concerns about AI potentially reducing workforce development but asserts that historical data shows a consistent improvement in productivity by 10%. Sweet advocates for a shift in the narrative, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of AI's impact. She points out that while the advancements are powerful, they are only partially new, drawing attention to the continuous evolution of technology. Sweet emphasizes a sense of humility in approaching AI, acknowledging its potential while recognizing the ongoing need for human skills and adaptability. In 2019, Accenture invested in upskilling, impacting 500,000 people. Sweet emphasizes the continuing commitment to addressing the changing nature of work, focusing on empowerment and collaboration between humans and AI.

CALL TO ACTION

Amidst global challenges, a powerful call to action arises, fueled by the values of collaboration, empathy, and humility and fueled by a deep awareness of the transformative power of technology guided by selfless intentions. In the face of geopolitical divisions and economic disparities, the rallying cry for unity echoes through a shared commitment to transparency, responsibility, and strategic alliances. Whether within international organizations, governments, or companies, the urgent call is for individuals to embrace empathy and humility as the driving forces propelling collective action.?

This collective effort is geared toward shaping a vision of a more interconnected and resilient world.