Let’s face it: the world is more complex, interrelated and interdependent than ever before. The challenges faced by the next generation of leaders are daunting and intractable and cannot be mastered with the current set of strategies, institutions, standards and attitudes.

To address these challenges in a meaningful and sustainable way requires fresh thinking, multistakeholder engagement and dynamic new ways of collaborating to develop innovative solutions that are truly global. Recognizing this need, in 2004 I created the foremost platform for young leaders to engage in global affairs to shape a more positive, peaceful and prosperous society.

The Forum of Young Global Leaders is a unique community formed by the most exceptional leaders from every region of the world and every stakeholder in society. These Young Global Leaders (YGLs) have committed their energy and knowledge to the most critical issues facing humankind.

Already successful and accomplished in their own fields, they join and co-create a community of insight and action that is truly committed to improving the state of the world. The Forum of Young Global Leaders is the voice of an optimistic future and an energetic catalyst for change. 

As you will see from the stories collected here, being part of the YGL community is also a transformational experience. YGLs engage with leaders outside their community, serving as sounding boards and advisers to international organizations, governments and private institutions. They initiate new dialogues and platforms for action to address global challenges such as climate change, disease prevention, improving education and eradicating poverty. They develop authentic relationships with global peers far outside their traditional professional networks, giving them unique perspectives into world affairs and resulting in personal friendships that allow them to bring about positive change.

The legitimacy of the community stems from its integrity and impact. YGLs are nominated and selected through a rigorous process to create a truly diverse and representative body, while accepting only the very best leaders who have already demonstrated their commitment to serving society at large.

Whether you are a young leader who has been honoured, a member of the World Economic Forum global community or the media, or a global citizen, we invite you to help us foster the next generation of world leaders. We integrate YGLs into processes that allow them to have a real impact on global affairs and to make sure that global decision-making preserves the interests of the next generation.

Klaus Schwab

Executive Chairman, World Economic Forum &
Founder of the Forum of Young Global Leaders