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Enron Mail |
To the attention of:
Dr Kenneth L. Lay Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Enron Dear Dr Lay, 2001 was an extraordinary year! As it draws to a close, I would like to share some of my thoughts with you. First of all, I wanted to thank our members and constituents for their active engagement during the last 12 months, which helped us to move forward in our efforts to serve as a framework and catalyst for business and society to improve the state of the world. In 2001 we implemented "Forum Plus" strategy, designed to advance critical issues on the global agenda through the creation of task forces and initiatives that integrate business, governments, international organizations, civil society, academics and technical experts. Today, 11 task forces are already in place. To provide an intellectual and strategic base for these activities, we have developed and computerized - with the help of our members and constituents - a comprehensive system for monitoring some 200 specific items on the global agenda. This tracking process provides a foundation for action on these ongoing challenges. To make our foundation a true multi-stakeholder platform we have created a number of consultative councils (e.g. with NGOs, world religious leaders, academies of science, etc.) and have, at the same time, strengthened the role of the business community inside our organization. It is worth noting that despite the negative trends in the global economy, 2001 was a successful year for all of our activities. This shows that even in difficult times there is a great demand for increased interaction among global decision-makers, and for top-level community building. The most difficult decision the Forum had to take this year was to move our Annual Meeting from Davos to New York in the aftermath of the tragic events of 11 September. From 31 January to 4 February 2002, leaders from business, governments, academia, religions, the media and civil society will have a first opportunity to develop an integrated response to these new circumstances. The Annual Meeting 2002 is organized around six major challenges we are facing as a global community: 1. Restoring Sustained Growth 2. Achieving Security, Addressing Vulnerabilities 3. Redefining Business Challenges 4. Reducing Poverty and Achieving Equity 5. Sharing Values and Respecting Differences 6. Re-evaluating Leadership and Governance The Annual Meeting in New York will be characterized by a workshop-style approach where all participants will have an opportunity to engage in shared learning and to have a collective impact. The programme is designed to stimulate discussion and provide insights that will help us better cope with the fragility of our times. The response to our invitations has been overwhelming: All the key personalities will be present. Please note that this year, instead of sending Christmas cards, we have made a donation to the Nelson Mandela Foundation to help build schools for needy children. My 150 colleagues and I look forward to joining forces with you in the New Year, in the spirit of entrepreneurship in the global public interest, to "improve the state of the world." My very best wishes accompany you in your contemplation at the end of the year and particularly for a healthy and successful 2002. Klaus Schwab Founder and President World Economic Forum
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