Global Trends 2040: A More Contested World

The Global Trends 2040 report, released by the US National Intelligence Council in 2021, is the latest in a series of reports dating back to 1997, which examines megatrends and the future of the world. Significantly influenced by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this report paints a bleak picture of a contested, fragmented, and turbulent world to come.

The report identifies four primary trends that will shape the world by 2040: Demographics, Economics, Climate, and Technology. Demographically, the world will see an addition of 1.4 billion people, mostly in Africa and South Asia. Economically, increased government debt and concentrated economic power will exacerbate problems for the poor and middle class. Climatically, a hotter world will lead to greater water, food, and health insecurity. Technologically, the emergence of new technologies could both solve and cause problems for human life.

The COVID-19 pandemic marks the most significant, singular global disruption since World War II, with far-reaching implications for health, economics, politics, and security that will reverberate for years to come, as highlighted in the Global Trends 2040 report.

This report is essential reading for students of trends, policymakers, entrepreneurs, academics, journalists, and anyone eager to glimpse into the next few decades. The report is filled with colored graphs and data, providing a comprehensive and informative look at the future challenges and opportunities facing the world.

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