World Governments Summit 2025: At a Glance

Reflecting on the past 25 years, Al Gergawi described this moment as a pivotal turning point in human civilisation. He challenged the world leaders with thought-provoking questions: What if humanity had chosen peace over war? What if economic growth wasn't the sole measure of progress? What if governments prioritised human values and sustainable development? He urged nations to allocate just 1% of their GDP to addressing global challenges, stressing that trust among governments is key to meaningful change.

Currently, the global trust index in governments stands at just 52%, while 680 million people still live below the poverty line. Addressing these issues requires a collective commitment, he stressed, noting that the UAE allocates 1.5% of its GDP to international relief efforts.

 Al Gergawi also said that governments that study the past are best equipped to shape the future. He recalled how, on December 31, 1999, fears of a technological collapse proved unfounded, yet the true digital era challenges emerged post-9/11. Over the past 25 years, the world has seen rapid transformations—global population growth from 6 billion to 8.2 billion, an economic expansion that doubled in size, and international trade soaring to USD 13 trillion in 2024. The shift from traditional industries to technology-driven economies has reshaped global dynamics.

Al Gergawi’s message was that the future does not require miracles—only a steadfast commitment to trust, values and forward-thinking governance. Looking forward, he said the global population will reach 10 billion by 2050. By then, more than 20% of the population will be over 60- double the percentage in 2000.

In the backdrop of global population increased from six billion in 2000 to 8.2 billion today, while the global economy has tripled to USD 33 trillion, he clarified that this century, the world went from domination by traditional industrial giants driven by oil, heavy manufacturing and financial services to one dominated by technology. Conflict and natural disasters have cost millions of lives and displaced millions more.

The disintegrating public trust in governments had led to a rise in populism, and he warned of further unrest and that since 2000, everyone have witnessed a decline and the level of trust in governments in many countries, and a rise of populist movements and protests around the world.

Tech giants Elon Musk took centre stage at the summit, offering insights on artificial intelligence, governance and global innovation. Musk, a regular at WGS, discussed the impact of disruptive technologies on policymaking and introduced his new role in the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk remarked that the U.S. should focus on its own affairs, proposed a USD 1 trillion government spending cut to curb inflation, and reiterated concerns over AI governance. As AI and innovation reshape the global landscape, WGS 2025 underlined the urgency of adapting policies to harness technology for the future.

Chief Adviser of interim government of Bangladesh Prof. Muhammad Yunus shared his insights and engaged in a candid discussion with CNN’s Becky Anderson about the nation’s political landscape and the pressing need to restore stability.

His immediate priority, Dr. Yunus explained, is to restore law and order and ensure free and fair elections, scheduled for late 2025 or early 2026. Beyond stabilising the political and economic landscape, Yunus argued on the need for national reconciliation and justice. 

Looking beyond immediate challenges, Yunus reiterated his vision for an economic system that prioritises human well-being over profit maximisation. He emphasised once again that a world without poverty, unemployment, or environmental degradation is achievable through social business—a model he has championed for decades. Dr. Yunus also plead for an unprecedented global cooperation with bold and collective action to navigate the challenges of our time.

On the other hand, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake highlighted his nation’s rich history, progressive aspirations and politically aware citizenry, stressing their deep empathy for global events and proudly noted Sri Lanka’s distinction as the world’s leading country in eye donations. He also recalled the importance of collective action over self-centred approaches, 

reminding that today’s isolated crises inevitably become tomorrow’s global concerns. He called for enhanced governance, accountability and social justice, advocating for an updated universal declaration of human rights to address emerging digital and environmental rights. Dissanayake warned of mounting global economic risks, with 60% of the world’s poorest nations facing debt crises. He urged financial reforms to create a fairer system, highlighting the urgent need for climate action as developing nations disproportionately bear the brunt of environmental degradation. Discussing the impact of technological advancements, he acknowledged both their benefits and potential threats, particularly cyber risks.  

At this key Summit, Al Gergawi’s call for governments to learn from the past and embrace forward-thinking solutions was the best take away. His call for collaboration and values-driven policies in addressing challenges like poverty, climate change, and instability is also inevitable in the current context. The insights from leaders like Musk, Yunus and Dissanayake also needs to be paid more attention in taking forward good and safeguarding humanity’s interests. WGS 2025, both now and in the future, should be more than just a platform for discussing innovations, wars and being self-centred; it is about laying the groundwork for collective action that leads to a more sustainable and peaceful future, with practical lessons to carry forward. Can the global village do it? Yes.

The writer is the Deputy Editor of Ceylon Today, a Colombo-based English daily.