The United Arab Emirates continues to solidify its position as a global leader in forward-thinking governance and strategic planning. Recently, in partnership with the World Economic Forum, the nation launched the “Global Strategic Foresight Program” during the Forum’s 56th Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. This initiative marks a significant step towards empowering governments and organizations to proactively navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, and to make informed decisions based on anticipated future trends. The program’s unveiling underscores the UAE’s commitment to innovation and its dedication to shaping a more resilient and prepared future for all.
ما هو البرنامج العالمي للذكاء الاستراتيجي؟ (What is the Global Strategic Foresight Program?)
The Global Strategic Foresight Program isn’t simply another policy initiative; it’s a paradigm shift in how governments approach planning and decision-making. Traditionally, governments have often reacted to events as they unfold. This program aims to move beyond reactive measures and embrace a proactive stance, utilizing strategic foresight to anticipate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. It’s about building a future-ready mindset, equipped to handle disruptions and accelerate progress. The core principle revolves around leveraging artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technologies to analyze data, identify patterns, and ultimately, predict future scenarios.
شراكة استراتيجية بين الإمارات والمنتدى الاقتصادي العالمي (A Strategic Partnership Between the UAE and the World Economic Forum)
The launch of the program was formalized with the signing of a cooperation agreement between the UAE and the World Economic Forum. Key figures present at the signing included Her Excellency Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and His Excellency Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and a member of the World Economic Forum’s Board of Trustees. Also in attendance were Borg Brende, CEO of the World Economic Forum, and Larry Fink, Chairman of BlackRock and Interim Co-Chair of the World Economic Forum’s Board of Trustees.
The agreement was signed by Hoda Al Hashimi, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs, and Maroun Khoury, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum. This collaboration highlights the shared vision of both entities in fostering international cooperation and promoting innovative governance models. The UAE’s proactive approach to future-proofing, combined with the World Economic Forum’s global reach and expertise, creates a powerful synergy for driving impactful change. This partnership is a testament to the UAE’s growing influence on the global stage and its commitment to addressing shared challenges.
أهداف البرنامج الرئيسية (Key Program Objectives)
The program’s objectives are multifaceted and ambitious. They include:
- Establishing Strategic Foresight as a Core Competency: The program seeks to embed strategic foresight as a fundamental skill within government institutions worldwide.
- Leveraging AI and Technology: Utilizing the power of artificial intelligence and other technological solutions to enhance predictive capabilities.
- Creating a Global Network: Building a collaborative network of governments, organizations, and experts dedicated to strategic foresight.
- Developing Future Leaders: Cultivating a new generation of leaders equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate future complexities.
مبادرات البرنامج العالمية (Global Program Initiatives)
The Global Strategic Foresight Program will be implemented through a series of key initiatives designed to accelerate its impact. These include:
- Global Strategic Foresight Forum in the UAE: Hosting a dedicated forum in the UAE to bring together global leaders and experts to discuss emerging trends and best practices in strategic foresight.
- Global Strategic Foresight Alliance: Establishing the first global alliance focused on fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing in the field.
- Strategic Foresight Accelerators: Launching accelerators to support the development and implementation of strategic foresight initiatives within governments and organizations.
- Strategic Foresight Academy: Creating an academy to provide training and education in strategic foresight methodologies and tools. This will be crucial for building capacity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the program.
رؤية الإمارات الاستباقية (UAE’s Proactive Vision)
Hoda Al Hashimi emphasized that the launch of the program represents a qualitative addition that strengthens international cooperation and accelerates the transition to an advanced, anticipatory approach. She highlighted the UAE’s active and influential presence in international forums, and its commitment to empowering governments worldwide to develop advanced future models. The ability to proactively read global shifts, transform data into actionable insights, and make swift, informed decisions is paramount in today’s volatile environment.
The UAE’s commitment to innovation extends beyond technology; it encompasses a fundamental shift in mindset. The nation recognizes that anticipating the future is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for sustainable development and global competitiveness. This program, therefore, is a natural extension of the UAE’s long-term vision and its dedication to building a brighter future for generations to come. The focus on future readiness is a key element of the UAE’s national strategy.
تعزيز الحوكمة العالمية (Enhancing Global Governance)
Stephan Margeth, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum, underscored the importance of integrating strategic foresight into the core of governmental decision-making processes. He expressed the Forum’s commitment to deepening the partnership with the UAE, and to developing a global program that supports policymakers in navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and strengthening governance.
Ultimately, the Global Strategic Foresight Program aims to create a more resilient and proactive global community, capable of addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century. By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and empowering leaders, the program promises to be a catalyst for positive change on a global scale. The success of this initiative will depend on continued commitment from all stakeholders and a willingness to embrace new ways of thinking about the future.