The 34th Economic Forum in Karpacz brought together around six thousand participants — politicians, business leaders, experts, authors and public figures from around the world. For its founder and long-time organiser, Zygmunt Berdykhovsky, this scale is not just a number, but proof that the platform is alive, developing and fulfilling its main mission: creating space for dialogue in times of global instability.
‘The most important thing is people. Sections where they exchange experiences, build partnerships, and discuss without scandal or drama. I am pleased that the forum went smoothly and professionally. But we will see the real results later — in real consequences,’ Berdychowski notes.
What will the 35th forum be like: challenges shaping Europe
According to its founder, the programme of the next, 35th Economic Forum will be shaped by what is happening right now. The world is entering a phase of profound transformation — and Europe cannot stand aside.
Key topics for the future include energy security, green energy, military challenges and the competitiveness of the European economy. Berdykhovsky believes that changes in the United States will have a particular impact.
‘Donald Trump’s presidency has already brought fundamental changes in climate, energy and deregulation policy in its first weeks. This will directly affect Europe. We must ensure that European companies do not lose their competitiveness,’ he explains.
Ukraine — among the key topics of the forum
Russia’s war against Ukraine remains one of the central topics of the Economic Forum. Berdykhovsky admits that he cannot predict the future, but sincerely wishes Ukraine a speedy end to the war.
‘There are many topics related to Ukraine at this forum. And the results of the discussions, as well as the events of March, April and May, will show us the main challenges for next year,’ he says.
About women, leadership and the right to be evaluated on equal terms
A separate, fundamental topic is the role of women in business, politics and diplomacy. A person through whom tens of thousands of leaders from different countries have passed over the decades, Berdykhovsky formulates his wishes simply and very personally.
“First, let the war end — so that women don’t have to wait and worry about their husbands. Second, let everything they do in business be successful. And third, let them be evaluated in the same way as men. In business, politics, government structures, hospitals, local government. And one more thing — may they never be lonely.”
These words are not a compliment, but the position of a person who has seen how true leadership is formed.
A forum that was born without a plan — and became a European institution
The idea for the Economic Forum emerged in 1991 — without any long-term strategies or clear scenarios.
“I never thought that we would create an institution that would bring together business and politics for over 30 years and influence global challenges,” admits Berdykhovsky.
His goal was simple, but complex at the same time: to get people to talk to each other, not to think in stereotypes, and to seek out the arguments of the other side.
“It was spontaneous. Without ambitions or plans for ten years ahead. But that’s what made the forum come alive,” he adds.
Poland and Ukraine: there is no alternative to cooperation
Speaking about Ukraine’s future, Berdykhovsky emphasises that there is no alternative to Polish-Ukrainian cooperation.
‘Poles and Ukrainians must have a lot of patience with each other. They should not look for topics that divide them or hurt each other unnecessarily. After the war, it will be necessary to find the right dialogue,’ he believes.
According to him, Poland will become one of the key ‘gateways’ for Ukraine on its path to reconstruction and integration into Europe.
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Photo: from the Business Woman archive