Davos (26.01.2026): In a recent conversation with CNBC at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, seasoned journalist and economic analyst Pranjal Sharma shared his insights into the shifting dynamics of the global order.
Against the backdrop of the 56th Annual Meeting (January 19–23, 2026), held under the theme "A Spirit of Dialogue," Sharma highlighted the emerging influence of the Global South and the critical role of "bridge" nations like Türkiye.
The Role of Davos: Beyond the "Elite" Label
Addressing the common criticism that Davos is merely a playground for the global elite with few tangible outcomes, Sharma offered a pragmatic defense of the forum:
- Dialogue as the First Step: In a world fractured by new geopolitical tensions, simply bringing leaders from business, politics, and technology together is a victory.
- A Platform for Perspective: Conflict resolution begins with understanding. Sharma argues that Davos provides the essential starting point for dialogue that eventually leads to long-term solutions.
A Fractured West and the Rise of the Global South
Sharma noted that 2026 marks a historic turning point, characterized by visible "cracks" in the traditional Western alliance:
- US-Europe Friction: For the first time in decades, significant policy differences are emerging between the US and the EU.
- Double Standards Exposed: Sharma pointed out a growing awareness of "hypocrisies" in the global order—where international laws are applied inconsistently depending on the actors involved.
- The Trump Factor: With U.S. President Donald Trump attending the summit, the world is closely watching how his administration will navigate these strained alliances.
Spotlight on Türkiye: The Balancing Bridge
A significant portion of the discussion focused on Türkiye’s evolving role in the new economic landscape. Having visited various regions of the country, including Istanbul and Aintab (Gaziantep), Sharma observed a nation reinventing itself.
Türkiye has always been the bridge between Asia and Europe... It should now think of itself as a country that can play a more balancing role.
Key Strategic Insights:
- Non-Western Roots: While a member of NATO and a partner to Europe, Türkiye remains fundamentally rooted in Asia, allowing it to act as an intermediary.
- Growth vs. Legacy: Sharma categorizes the world into Legacy Economies (North America/Western Europe) and Growth Economies (Türkiye, India, China, and West Asia).
- New Alignments: He urged growth economies to collaborate more closely to ensure the benefits of the "New World Order" reach the billions of people who were overlooked by previous global structures.
Moving Forward
As the 2026 summit concludes, the message is clear: the era of a unipolar world is fading. The future belongs to those who can facilitate dialogue across these emerging economic and geopolitical divides
