Switzerland has four official languages, but regular visitors to Davos have mastered a fifth: a form of English that is rich in possibility, ambition and occasional wisdom. Although this Davos dialect is initially even harder on the ears than Swiss German, it can become second nature, given enough practice and self-delusion. We are pleased to provide the following guide, in order to aid cross-cultural dialogue, and prevent embarrassing misunderstandings: Davosian English The need for an impartial platform for dialogue has never been greater We will always find an excuse to do Davos Davos is in the heart of Europe Davos is in the middle of nowhere The theme of this year’s gathering is A Spirit of Dialogue The idiots are in charge, so we have to speak to them It’s great to be here! I just spent two hours on a minibus and slipped over on the pavement Is this your first Davos? Are you too unimportant to talk to? Our excitement about the energy transition does not mean that we reject ...
