Musk makes surprise Davos debut after years of blasting global elite forum
Davos – Elon Musk’s appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos marks a notable shift for one of the world’s most outspoken critics of the annual gathering, as the billionaire attends the event for the first time after years of publicly ridiculing it. His presence has drawn global attention, given his repeated attacks on Davos as an elitist space detached from the realities faced by ordinary people.
Musk is scheduled to appear on a high-profile panel alongside BlackRock chief executive Larry Fink, placing him at the centre of discussions among political leaders, policymakers and corporate executives. The decision to attend signals a change in tone from a figure who has frequently dismissed the forum as unaccountable and unnecessary, even as its influence on global economic and political debates has continued to grow.
For years, Musk used his social media platform to mock the Davos meeting, describing it as boring and portraying the forum as an unelected authority that wields influence without public consent. These comments resonated with critics of globalisation who see such gatherings as symbols of concentrated power and privilege. His arrival in Davos therefore represents a striking contrast to his earlier stance.
The timing of Musk’s appearance is significant, as he now holds expanded influence across technology, defence, artificial intelligence and global communications. His companies operate at the intersection of business and geopolitics, making him a key figure in debates that are central to the agenda in Davos this year. From satellite connectivity to artificial intelligence governance, his views carry weight well beyond the corporate sphere.
SpaceX, one of Musk’s flagship ventures, has become an important partner for governments through its satellite and launch services. Its Starlink internet network is used in conflict zones and remote regions, raising questions about the role of private companies in critical global infrastructure. These issues are expected to feature prominently in discussions involving Musk during the forum.
Musk’s artificial intelligence company xAI has also placed him at the centre of debates around the risks and responsibilities of emerging technologies. Recent controversy surrounding content generated by its chatbot has intensified scrutiny of how AI systems are developed and regulated. As governments explore new frameworks for oversight, Musk’s perspectives are closely watched by both supporters and critics.
His political influence has also grown, particularly through his close alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump. This relationship has elevated Musk’s role in policy conversations related to technology, defence spending and digital platforms. At Davos, where political and economic agendas often intersect, this connection adds another layer of significance to his participation.
Observers note that Musk’s attendance does not necessarily mean an endorsement of the forum’s values, but rather reflects a pragmatic recognition of its reach. Davos remains a place where decisions are shaped, alliances are formed and narratives are influenced. By stepping onto this stage, Musk positions himself not as an outsider commenting from afar, but as a participant engaging directly with global power brokers.
Reactions to Musk’s appearance have been mixed. Supporters argue that his presence brings a disruptive voice into a setting often criticised for groupthink, while detractors see it as a contradiction of his earlier rhetoric. Either way, his participation has ensured heightened attention on the forum and its discussions this year.
As debates unfold, Musk’s Davos debut underscores a broader trend of influential tech leaders moving from critique to engagement with global institutions. Whether this marks a lasting shift in his approach or a one-off appearance driven by strategic interests remains to be seen, but it has already reshaped the narrative around his relationship with the world’s most prominent economic forum.
