From US to Davos

On January 20, Donald Trump officially assumed office as the 47th President of the United States, marking the beginning of a new political era for the United States and beyond. The inauguration was characterized by the traditional speech, in which Trump made it clear that his administration would focus on breaking from the past. “America First” is the slogan: the priority is to protect national interests and reduce the influence of global institutions on the United States.

This approach was confirmed a few days later at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where Trump addressed the gathering through a video message. In his speech, Trump reiterated his vision of a world where nations are free to pursue their own economic interests without the burden of international regulations that, in his view, disadvantage stronger countries. He emphasized policies such as tax cuts for businesses, reductions in overall taxation, and domestic fiscal reforms as central to his economic agenda, aiming to attract foreign investment and reinvigorate the American economy while favoring those with the means to invest. Despite his hardline positions on trade and immigration, his speech at Davos sought to present an image of capitalism thriving when each country is free to pursue its internal policies.

Davos, traditionally a forum for debating major global challenges, once again hosted a clash of differing economic visions this year. While Trump highlighted his “America First” economic policy, many other participants opposed this vision, calling for greater commitment to international cooperation. The forum also focused on pressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and the growing threat of digital misinformation.

The event featured numerous critical voices highlighting the rising economic polarization and widening gap between the rich and the poor. While business leaders discussed technological innovations, sustainability, and digitalization, growing concerns emerged regarding protectionist policies and the trade war between the United States and China. Trump’s stance effectively sparked a global discussion on the need to balance protectionism with multilateral cooperation, particularly to avoid a return to economic stagnation or geopolitical conflicts.

As the world sought solutions to global challenges, Trump reaffirmed his vision of capitalism centered on national interests while maintaining some openness to foreign investments. The discussions in Davos underscored tensions between opposing views on globalization and economic sovereignty, with many emphasizing the need for greater inclusivity and solidarity in the global economic model.