Futures

Future Risks Report 2024: Key Findings on Emerging Global Challenges, (from page 20241208.)

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Themes

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Summary

The Future Risks Report’s 11th edition emphasizes the growing complexity of emerging risks affecting daily life, based on a survey of 3,000 experts and 20,000 individuals. Climate change remains the foremost concern globally, with 77% of the public feeling vulnerable. Geopolitical instability has risen as a significant worry, linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Cybersecurity is highlighted as a major threat, dropping to third place but still a top concern for many, influenced by geopolitical tensions and advancements in AI. The report underscores the impact of crises on daily life, the dangers of misinformation for political institutions, and the critical role of insurers in mitigating emerging risks.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Growing Public Vulnerability to Climate Change Increased public awareness of vulnerability to climate change impacts. Shift from low awareness to higher public concern regarding climate change. In ten years, climate change may drive significant policy changes and lifestyle adaptations. Increased visibility of climate-related disasters and scientific communication. 5
Rising Geopolitical Instability Experts increasingly concerned about geopolitical instability affecting global security. Transition from moderate to high concern about global geopolitical tensions. In ten years, geopolitical instability could reshape global alliances and economic relationships. Ongoing conflicts and protectionist sentiments driving expert concerns. 4
Insecurity Due to Cyber Threats Cyber security concerns rising amidst geopolitical tensions and AI advancements. Moving from moderate to significant concern about cyber threats. In ten years, cyber security will be a critical aspect of national security and personal privacy. Advancements in AI and increased digital interdependencies. 4
Impact of Misinformation on Politics Growing recognition of misinformation’s damaging effects on political institutions. Shift from limited awareness to recognition of misinformation as a critical risk. In ten years, misinformation could lead to fundamental changes in political processes and trust. Increased digital communication and social media influence on public opinion. 4
Role of Insurers in Risk Management Insurers are increasingly seen as key players in managing emerging risks. Transition from traditional views of insurance to proactive risk management roles. In ten years, insurance models may evolve to address new global risks comprehensively. Growing need for protection against complex emerging risks and crises. 3

Concerns

name description relevancy
Climate Change Impact Growing public vulnerability to climate change effects, increasing its priority as a leading global risk. 5
Geopolitical Instability Rising tensions from global conflicts may exacerbate risks due to ongoing crises in specific regions. 4
Cyber Security Threats Increased threats to cybersecurity linked to geopolitical instability and advancements in artificial intelligence. 4
Misinformation Effects Misinformation jeopardizes political institutions and public trust, posing significant challenges to governance. 4
Complex Risk Management The increasing complexity in managing interconnected risks necessitates new strategies and decision-making frameworks. 3
Insurers’ Role The need for insurers to adapt and provide protection against a rising array of emerging risks. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Increased Public Awareness of Climate Change Growing recognition of climate change impacts leading to heightened vulnerability feelings among the public. 5
Rising Concerns over Geopolitical Instability Increasing anxiety among experts regarding geopolitical tensions and conflicts affecting global stability. 5
Heightened Awareness of Cyber Security Risks Growing recognition of cyber security as a significant threat linked to geopolitical instability and technological advances. 4
Impact of Misinformation on Political Institutions Recognition of misinformation as a serious threat to the functioning and integrity of political systems. 4
Role of Insurers in Risk Management Emphasis on the importance of insurers in mitigating emerging risks for individuals and society. 3

Technologies

description relevancy src
Innovative solutions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts. 5 caf29de5522a914887f9653f8edfd0a6
Advanced technologies and strategies to protect systems and networks from cyber threats, especially amid geopolitical tensions. 5 caf29de5522a914887f9653f8edfd0a6
AI-driven technologies designed to enhance cybersecurity measures and combat misinformation. 4 caf29de5522a914887f9653f8edfd0a6
Technologies developed to identify and counter misinformation in digital media and political discourse. 4 caf29de5522a914887f9653f8edfd0a6
Technological advancements in the insurance industry to better manage emerging risks and protect individuals. 4 caf29de5522a914887f9653f8edfd0a6

Issues

name description relevancy
Complexity of Risk Management The growing intricacy of managing interconnected risks across various domains due to rapid technological advances. 4
Climate Change Awareness Increasing public awareness and vulnerability towards climate change as a significant risk in daily life. 5
Geopolitical Instability Rising concerns regarding geopolitical tensions, particularly related to conflicts like those in the Middle East and Ukraine. 5
Cyber Security Threats Ongoing concerns about cyber security linked to geopolitical instability and advancements in artificial intelligence. 4
Impact of Misinformation The serious consequences of misinformation on political institutions and societal functioning. 4
Role of Insurers The evolving importance of insurers in mitigating emerging risks and protecting individuals. 3