Davos 2026 and the end of the rules-based order

Azeem Azhar's Davos dispatches from the World Economic Forum 2026 highlight geopolitical fragmentation and AI adoption. The old rules-based world order is fracturing, with nations re-evaluating interdependencies and sovereignty, as evidenced by speeches from Mark Carney and European leaders. Despite interconnectedness, countries are taking tangible steps towards more regionalized trade. Simultaneously, organizations are grappling with the practical implications of AI, moving beyond theoretical fears to address real-world challenges in employment, education, and business performance. While AI adoption remains in early stages, some companies are developing impressive AI tools for core functions, and startups like Hippocratic AI are broadening access to healthcare using open-source AI models.