Global Leaders Converge in Davos: Trump to Lead Record US Delegation, Former PM Trudeau to Address Soft Power Summit

Davos Prepares for High-Profile Delegations

The picturesque town of Davos, Switzerland, is once again the focal point for global leaders as it hosts the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Annual Meeting from January 19 to 23, 2026. This year's gathering is anticipated to be particularly notable with the attendance of several prominent international figures, including U.S. President Donald Trump and former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

President Trump to Head Largest-Ever US Contingent

U.S. President Donald Trump is slated to lead what is described as the largest-ever American delegation to the World Economic Forum. The delegation is expected to include five Cabinet secretaries and other senior officials, such as Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff. This significant presence underscores the United States' engagement with the forum's agenda, which aims to foster dialogue on critical global challenges.

The WEF's 2026 meeting, themed 'A Spirit of Dialogue,' is set to bring together approximately 2,500 heads of state and government, business CEOs, civil society leaders, and media representatives from around the world. Discussions are expected to cover a broad range of topics, including geopolitical stability, economic resilience, climate change, artificial intelligence governance, and inclusive economic growth.

Former PM Trudeau to Speak at Global Soft Power Summit

Alongside the main WEF events, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to make a significant appearance at the annual Global Soft Power Summit. This related event, organized by the U.K.-based brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance, will take place on Tuesday, January 21, in Davos. Mr. Trudeau is slated to deliver the keynote address, followed by a fireside discussion with David Haigh, Brand Finance's chairman and CEO.

The theme for the 2026 Global Soft Power Summit is 'Soft Power in a Hard Power World: Investing in Economic Resilience in an Era of Global Conflicts.' While Mr. Trudeau will be participating in this co-located summit, Canada's current Prime Minister, Mark Carney, is also scheduled to speak at the World Economic Forum itself.

The World Economic Forum's Enduring Role

The World Economic Forum, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is an international not-for-profit organization established in 1971. Its mission is to 'improve the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic, and other leaders of society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas.' The annual meeting in Davos serves as a crucial platform for decision-makers across public and private sectors to discuss major issues and explore solutions to global challenges.