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The biggest risks facing the world in 2026
2026-02-01 14:29:40 / BOTA
From rapid advances in AI to changes in the economic order after World War II, many forces are reshaping the global system.
As these changes accelerate, they bring increasing risks. Not only do they raise questions about competitiveness and national security, but they are also expected to disproportionately hit labor markets.
This article shows the main global risks in 2026, based on data from the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2026.
A closer look at the main global risks
For this analysis, the World Economic Forum surveyed more than 1,300 experts on the most pressing global risks in 2026.
Respondents were asked to answer the question:
“Please select a risk that you think is most likely to present a material crisis on a global scale in 2026.”
The surveys were conducted between August 12 and September 22, 2025.
List of top global risks for 2026 (by percentage of selection)
Geoeconomic confrontation – 18%
Armed conflict between states – 14%
Extreme climate events – 8%
Social polarization – 7%
Misinformation and disinformation – 7%
Economic downturn – 5%
Erosion of human rights and/or civil liberties – 4%
Negative consequences of AI technologies – 4%
Cybersecurity – 3%
Inequality – 3%
Geoeconomic confrontation ranks as the biggest global risk for 2026, selected by 18% of respondents.
Compared to last year, it has climbed two places in the ranking, due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Recently, US pressure over Greenland, as well as the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, have further increased tensions.
At the same time, according to experts, President Trump's perceived indifference to Taiwan's defense could create a "perfect storm" for China's "reunification" efforts.
Armed conflict between states ranks second in the WEF report, selected by 14% of respondents.
There are currently 59 active conflicts between states around the world, the highest number since World War II.
The top three spots on the list are filled by extreme climate events, selected by 8% of respondents.
From massive fires to droughts, extreme events are significantly contributing to rising food prices, population displacement, and rising insurance costs.
With the continued rise in global temperatures, these consequences are expected to intensify in both frequency and severity. /Visual Capitalist
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