Business leaders, politicians, and campaigners convened in Davos, Switzerland, for the annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting amid concerns about strained U.S./European relations. The gathering, a yearly fixture in the Swiss ski resort, brings together global figures to discuss pressing issues.

The WEF has faced criticism for being perceived as a playground for the elite, disconnected from everyday realities and overly focused on global dialogue. However, the current geopolitical climate, characterized by threats to the established rules-based order, has underscored the meeting's significance, according to attendees.

One attendee, reflecting on 16 years of participation, noted an unprecedented crisis in U.S./European relations. This sentiment echoes broader anxieties about transatlantic partnerships in an era of shifting global power dynamics.

The forum has historically served as a stage for clashes and debates. In 2011, JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon criticized government regulations, only to be publicly rebuked by then-French President Nicolas Sarkozy. Such exchanges highlight the WEF's role as a platform for diverse viewpoints and sometimes contentious discussions.

The WEF's relevance is often amplified during times of crisis. Following the 2008 financial crash, the forum became a focal point for discussions on the future of Western capitalism, with prominent banking leaders engaging in debates with political figures. The current concerns about U.S./European relations suggest a similar sense of urgency and a need for dialogue among global leaders.