According to the report, confrontation driven by economic instruments such as sanctions, trade restrictions and strategic industrial policy now tops the list of immediate global risks most likely to trigger a crisis in 2026. This form of geo-economic competition has overtaken traditional armed conflict as the most pressing short-term concern, reflecting increasing rivalry and fragmentation in international relations.

Experts contributing to the report expect the global landscape to be turbulent in the coming years. Almost half of the respondents express pessimism about global stability over the next two years. Looking further ahead to 2036, environmental risks dominate the long-term outlook. Extreme weather events, biodiversity loss and ecosystem disruption are projected to have the most severe impacts, reinforcing the urgent need for sustained climate action and adaptation.

Artificial intelligence features prominently throughout the report as both an opportunity and a risk factor. AI technologies have the potential to drive productivity, support scientific breakthroughs and contribute to solutions in areas such as healthcare, energy and climate resilience. At the same time, the report warns that insufficient governance and international coordination could exacerbate risks related to misinformation, cyber insecurity, societal disruption and military use. Responsible development, transparency and global cooperation are therefore seen as essential conditions for ensuring that AI strengthens, rather than undermines, societal resilience.

The findings illustrate how geopolitical tensions, environmental challenges and technological change are increasingly interconnected. Addressing these complex risks requires long-term thinking and collaboration across disciplines, sectors and borders, with a strong role for research institutions and innovation ecosystems.

The Global Risks Report 2026 strongly resonates with the ambitions of the Amsterdam AI ecosystem. Through close collaboration between academia, healthcare, industry and public authorities, Amsterdam is well positioned to contribute to the responsible and human-centred development of AI.

The involvement of the UvA in the Global Risks Report, through ACBI’s partnership with the World Economic Forum, highlights the international relevance of Amsterdam-based expertise in strategy, innovation and risk analysis. Within this ecosystem, research, applied innovation and policy development come together to translate global insights into local and regional impact.

In line with the report’s call to action, Amsterdam AI continues to focus on ethical AI, interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world application. By leveraging its strong knowledge base and collaborative networks, the Amsterdam ecosystem contributes to building resilience and ensuring that technological progress supports a sustainable, inclusive and secure future.