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The Global Competitiveness Report 2013–2014

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The Global Competitiveness Report 2013–2014

World Economic Forum,

15 min read
10 take-aways
Audio & text

What's inside?

How 148 economies around the world stack up on economic, social and environmental competitiveness.

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Editorial Rating

7

Qualities

  • Analytical
  • Scientific
  • Overview

Recommendation

The World Economic Forum presents the 2013 iteration of its annual compendium of statistics and analysis covering the factors that make economies soar or sink. Myriad variables drive competitiveness in any country, region or territory. The report examines more than 100 different elements, but they all link back to one critical factor: productivity. Increasing productivity invariably leads to growing prosperity and opportunity. This year, the World Economic Forum paid particular attention to measures of social and environmental sustainability, issues that are especially relevant in a time of growing political unrest and climate change. Switzerland has something to crow about – it tops the ranking for the fifth year running. getAbstract recommends this exhaustive and enlightening study of 148 economies around the world to global business executives and policy makers.

Summary

Changing Roles

The current global economic environment is very different from the one that existed before the 2008 financial crisis. The world’s advanced economies are now gradually but haltingly recovering, while the developing world has, for the most part, driven its economies forward. This role reversal upended expectations so much that the traditional classifications of “developing” and “developed” economies may require some redefining, at least in relation to competitiveness. Still, prospects for world economies are better than in 2012, though uncertainties remain. The United States, Japan and Canada will experience muted growth, while the euro zone’s progress remains in question. Emerging markets have formed mutual relationships and present good growth opportunities, though the “credit crunch” in China and political demonstrations in such places as Brazil and Turkey may affect growth prospects. Globally, “unemployment or the threat of it” is still a major issue in long-term sustainability. Joblessness stymies economic progress, so nations must educate and train people for changing labor markets to ensure competitiveness.

“The 12 Pillars of Competitiveness”

About the Author

Klaus Schwab is the founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum. Working through leaders in government, business and academia, the WEF is a global, independent and nonprofit entity “committed to improving the state of the world.”

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