The biggest risks in 2025: an overview

What are the risks that pose the greatest threat to humanity in 2025? An in-depth analysis of the Global Risks Report 2025 provides valuable insights. The report is based on a survey of over 900 experts from business, government, academia and civil society worldwide and identifies the most pressing global risks.

The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2025 describes the general situation now and in the 2–10-year forecast as ‘gloomy’. The risk experts surveyed identify armed conflict between states as the greatest risk, with 23 per cent of respondents considering this threat to be the most serious. This underlines the current instability in the geopolitical situation. But other risks are also significant:

Top risks in 2025

1. Armed conflicts between states: 23 per cent
2. Extreme weather events: A significant proportion of experts consider extreme weather events to be a serious threat, with these events becoming increasingly frequent and intense.
3. Geo-economic conflicts: These conflicts, which illustrate the economic tensions between nations, are also rated highly.

The geopolitical situation thus dominates the top three risks, indicating growing global insecurity.

Other significant risks

In addition to the three main threats that will be particularly threatening in 2025, there are a number of other risks that should not be neglected:

• Misinformation and disinformation: 7 per cent of respondents see this as a significant threat. In an increasingly digital world where information is spread rapidly, disinformation can lead to significant social upheaval.
• Social polarisation: This risk further divides society, which can lead to instability and unrest.
• Economic downturn: Another significant risk factor that could threaten economic stability and growth.
• Changes to the ecosystem: Critical changes to the ecosystem could have long-term consequences for the environment and for people.
• Rising unemployment: This represents an economic and social challenge.
• Erosion of human rights: Human rights violations and their possible increase are also worrying trends.
• Inequality: The growing gap between rich and poor can lead to significant social tensions.

The Global Risks Report: a valuable tool

The Global Risks Report, published by the World Economic Forum (WEF), is produced by the Global Risks Initiative at the Centre for the New Economy and Society. Now in its 20th edition, the report provides comprehensive insights into current and long-term threats. Its aim is to give leaders the foresight they need to proactively address emerging challenges.

Diverse and menacing risks

The risks for the year 2025 are diverse and menacing. From geopolitical conflict and extreme climate events to economic and social challenges, each of these threats requires attention and decisive action. The findings of the Global Risk Report provide an indispensable basis for developing strategic measures to effectively counter these risks.

Binci Heeb

Read also: Focusing on future risks: From data to Action – Understanding and Managing the Risks of Tomorrow