The Global Risk Report: rating the dangerous...
Where are the greatest threats to the earth lurking? Every year we get an answer to this question from Davos after the World Economic Forum polls hundreds of experts from business, politics, science and civil society.
Increasing concern about extreme weather
In last year's report, the World Economic Forum experts warned first of all about Brexit and the unpredictable policies of newly-elected US President Donald Trump. This year extreme weather comes in first place based on what risks are the most likely to happen. Here: Hurricane Irma which hit the Caribbean and the United States last fall before finally dissipating.
Natural disasters take second place
Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, tsunamis, storms, floods and other natural disasters are the second largest risk. But cyber attacks and the misuse and theft of data pose considerable risks. In fifth place are dangers that could happen if we do not manage to mitigate climate change and adapt to changes due to climate change. Here: Flooding in Indonesia last February.
Blame nature and climate change
Climate and disaster-related risks are very dominant on the World Economic Forum's risk scale this year. And not just by looking at what threats are most likely to happen, but also by considering what dangers will have the biggest impact in the next ten years. Here: Rescuers helping victims after a massive landslide buried villages and roads in Bangladesh last June.
The potential for great destruction
When it comes to what risks could have the greatest impact over the next decade though, weapons of mass destruction are at the top of the list. The development of nuclear, chemical and biological technologies could cause international crises and considerable destruction, according to the report. Here: Anti-nuclear demonstrators in front of the American embassy in Berlin in September.
Man is not always to blame
When it comes to the risks that could have the greatest impact in the short term, extreme weather and natural disasters are in second and third place. If people do not mitigate climate change and take measures to adapt to the ramifications of climate change it could also have major consequences (fourth place). Here: Destruction after an earthquake in Kermanshah, Iran in November.
Shortages — the big thirst
The World Economic Forum experts also warned that water shortfalls may also have a big impact in the short and long-term. The ever-shrinking amount of available fresh water in some areas affects not only the health of people and animals, but also has a big impact on the global economy. Here: The aftermath of a water crisis near the Afghanistan border in Zabol, Iran.
A clear conscience for business
Like last year, there are no "economic risks" among the top-five. In the years following the 2008 financial crisis such risks were dominant, whether it was a collapse in the securities market, fiscal crisis or a slowdown in Chinese growth. But this should not hide the fact that these risks still exist — they are just not as dangerous as in recent years. Here: Begging on the streets of Athens.