The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international non-governmental and not-for-profit organization based in Geneva, Switzerland, operating under Swiss law. Founded in 1971 by German economist and engineer Klaus Schwab, it originated as the European Management Forum and has evolved into a global entity. The WEF serves as a platform for public-private cooperation and multistakeholder governance, convening political, business, academic, and civil society leaders to shape global, regional, and industry agendas. It is best known for its annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, which attracts thousands of participants, including heads of state and CEOs, to address pressing issues such as economic inequality, climate change, technological disruption, and geopolitical tensions. The organization engages in activities worldwide, including regional summits in locations like China, Africa, and Latin America. Through initiatives like the Global Risks Report, various centers for strategic insights, and partnerships with over 1,000 member companies, governments, and NGOs, it aims to foster dialogue and partnerships to improve the state of the world. The WEF has been involved in efforts such as the COVID-19 response and the Great Reset concept, and it maintains affiliations with international bodies like the United Nations and alumni networks like the Young Global Leaders program. It has faced criticism for perceived elitism and allegations of promoting the interests of multinational corporations and wealthy nations, as well as undue influence on global policy and ties to pharmaceutical and tech giants, though the organization emphasizes transparency in its operations and funding, which comes primarily from corporate memberships.