In an inspiring demonstration of human adaptability and collective will, global cooperation is not just surviving but transforming itself to meet the challenges of our complex modern world. The World Economic Forum's latest Global Cooperation Barometer 2026 brings encouraging news: despite facing significant geopolitical headwinds, international collaboration remains resilient and is evolving in innovative ways.

Developed in partnership with McKinsey & Company, the comprehensive assessment examines 41 metrics across five crucial areas: trade and capital, innovation and technology, climate and natural capital, health and wellness, and peace and security. The findings paint a picture of a world that refuses to give up on working together, even when traditional pathways face obstacles.

"Amid one of the most volatile and uncertain periods in decades, cooperation has shown resilience," said Børge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum. His words capture the spirit of perseverance that defines our current era of international relations.

The most exciting developments are happening in climate action and technological innovation. Clean technology deployment reached record levels in mid-2025, demonstrating that when nations align environmental goals with their interests, remarkable progress follows. Solar, wind, and electric vehicle adoption are surging not just in developed nations but increasingly in developing economies as well. Regional groups like the European Union and ASEAN are successfully combining decarbonization efforts with energy security goals, proving that environmental cooperation can deliver multiple benefits.

The technology sector tells an equally uplifting story. International bandwidth has quadrupled since the COVID-19 pandemic, IT services continue to flow across borders, and talent exchange remains robust. New cooperation formats are emerging around artificial intelligence, 5G infrastructure, and other cutting-edge technologies, showing that innovation thrives on collaboration.

Bob Sternfels, Global Managing Partner at McKinsey & Company, observes that "Leaders are reimagining collaboration across borders. Cooperation may look different today, and involve different partners, but importantly, it continues to deliver on some critical shared priorities."

This reimagining is perhaps the most hopeful aspect of the report. Rather than abandoning cooperation when faced with obstacles, nations are creating flexible, nimble, and purpose-driven approaches. Smaller collaborative arrangements are flourishing, often within and between regions. Countries are forming innovative partnerships like the Future of Investment and Trade (FIT) Partnership, demonstrating that the spirit of cooperation adapts rather than disappears.

Health outcomes have remained resilient following the pandemic, showing that the global health infrastructure built through cooperation continues to deliver results. Trade in goods and services persists above 2019 levels, with services and capital flows showing particular momentum among partner nations.

The report's ultimate message is one of hope and possibility. Yes, we face challenges in peace and security, and yes, traditional multilateral approaches encounter difficulties. But human ingenuity and the fundamental recognition of our interconnectedness are driving the creation of new cooperative structures, from innovative trade agreements to standards alliances and public-private partnerships.

As we navigate this uncertain era, the Barometer reminds us that collaboration remains essential and achievable. By focusing on shared interests and maintaining open dialogue, nations are proving that working together isn't just idealistic—it's practical, effective, and absolutely vital for building a better future for all.