Global Shapers Impact Report 2025

Overview of methodology The Global Shapers Impact Report is the World Economic Forum’s flagship publication for the advancement of the issues that matter most to young people. It demonstrates that when young people are empowered through meaningful opportunities to learn, lead and innovate, they serve as a transformative force, driving profound and lasting change locally and globally. This report makes a powerful argument: that youth engagement isn’t just valuable – it’s essential for driving the transformative progress that communities and the world urgently need. This year’s report draws on unique insights from 3,989 young leaders and experts from 459 diverse locations, including capital cities, rural areas, remote islands and refugee camps, spanning 142 countries and territories. This breadth of perspectives makes it one of the most diverse data sets available on the global youth agenda. Participant insights were collected through a global survey, which was open from 1 June to 31 July 2024. Insights from 3,989 young leaders through a global survey highlight the critical role of empowered youth in advancing social change. This year’s report draws on unique insights from: 3,989 young leaders and experts 142 countries and territories459 diverse locations Capital cities Rural areas Remote islands Refugee camps This report makes a powerful argument: that youth engagement isn’t just valuable – it’s essential for driving the transformative progress that communities and the world urgently need. In addition to the data gathered from the Global Shapers Community, the report incorporates research from leading youth-focused publications across academia, business, government, international organizations and civil society, offering a comprehensive view of young people’s concerns and aspirations worldwide. The report evaluates the impact of youth-led social change initiatives, addressing critical questions such as the following: –What issues do young people prioritize? –What social change strategies and tactics do they deploy? –Who is impacted by their efforts, and what are the lasting outcomes? This report, in collaboration with the Youth and Innovation Project at the University of Waterloo, also advances a framework for youth-led social change, providing data on the frequency and effectiveness of various approaches. It offers practical lessons for young leaders, organizations and decision-makers, illustrating how youth-led action can be scaled and supported globally. Global Shapers Impact Report 5