diminish the tremendous actual and potential progress for humankind stemming from biotech. The time to act is now - is consensus possible in a fragmenting world? Deepening divisions and increasing fragmentation are reshaping international relations and calling into question whether existing structures are equipped to tackle the challenges collectively confronting us. Levels of global cooperation across many areas of geopolitics and humanitarian issues, economic relations, and environmental, societal and technological challenges may reach new lows in the coming years. Key countries appear to be turning inward, focusing on mounting domestic economic or societal concerns, just when they should be seeking to strengthen multilateral ties to confront shared challenges. When asked about the characteristics of the global political outlook over the next decade, 64% of GRPS respondents believe that we will face a Multipolar or fragmented order, in which middle and great powers contest, set and enforce regional rules and norms (Figure F). Perceptions in response to this question have changed little compared to last year. The Western-led global order is expected to continue its decline over the next decade but will nonetheless remain an importance locus of power. Alternative power centres are likely to strengthen, not just led by China, but also by key emerging powers, including India and the Gulf states. The decade ahead will be pivotal as leaders will be confronted with increasingly complex global risks. But to prevent a downward spiral in which citizens worldwide will be worse off than before, ultimately there is no option other than to find avenues for dialogue and collaboration.4 Global political outlook FIGURE F Source World Economic Forum Global Risks Perception Survey 2024-202519% Bipolar or bifurcated order shaped by strategic competition between two superpowers 8% Continuation or reinvigoration of the US-led, rules-based international order 64% Multipolar or fragmented order in which middle and great powers contest, set, and enforce regional rules and norms 9% Realignment towards a new international order led by an alternative superpower“Which of the following best characterizes the global political environment for cooperation on global risks in 10 years?” Global Risks Report 2025 11