Review and debate building into a picture of the world of business, politics and policy in 2025

The Politics of 2025

Our annual programme reviews and debates the political and policy landscape, featuring insights from our expert team and leading external commentators. From escalating geopolitical tension to a new political landscape amid turning-point elections, and technology-driven change in a rapidly evolving world, The Politics of 2025 builds into a picture of the world of business, politics and policy.
Our clients have adapted to a high degree of uncertainty in global politics and policymaking. As ever, the challenge in 2025 remains knowing what we know and do not – yet – know. Taking stock of some of the most important forces shaping those outcomes is a good place to start.

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Insights from our experts

The view for business

Stephen Adams, Senior Director examines the key themes facing global businesses heading into 2025 and beyond, and how this uncertainty can make doing business more challenging.

UK politics and policy

Lilah Howson-Smith, Practice Director for UK Politics and Policy, speaks about the fragmentation of climate policy and the need for companies to tailor their strategies to local economic priorities. 

Financial services

Matthew Conway, Practice Director for Financial Services, unpacks the rapidly evolving global regulatory landscape for the digital assets sector, and his two key themes for 2025.

Health and life sciences

Emma Eatwell, Practice Director for Health and Life Sciences explores the key challenges and opportunities shaping the industry in 2025 - including the future of US health policy under the Trump administration.

Middle East and North Africa

Ahmed Helal, MENA Director, explores the Gulf states' strategic balancing act and MENA's biggest challenges in 2025, alongside how the region will navigate the future of AI, access to chips, and more.

Tech, media and telecoms

Conan D'Arcy, Senior Practice Director for Tech, media and telecoms highlights the Trump administration’s aggressive tech stance, clashing with Europe over regulations, and signalling shifts in content moderation.

The view from our global offices

The view from London

Alex Dawson explores the challenges facing Keir Starmer's government in 2025, as it grapples with tight budgets, tough spending decisions, and international pressures amid high expectations for change. Starmer’s cautious start and focus on fiscal discipline may clash with Labour’s traditional priorities, while geopolitical realities and domestic political rivals heighten the stakes for his administration’s success.

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The view from Washington, DC

Erin Caddell outlines the challenges facing Trump’s second term, including a record-high federal deficit and a slim House majority. Despite ambitious reform plans, Trump may lean on the private sector and public-private partnerships to navigate fiscal and legislative hurdles. Businesses must also navigate trade risks and rapid policy shifts. With Trump’s media-driven approach, separating noise from lasting change will be key for investors and corporates.

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The view from Brussels

Tom White outlines Europe’s evolving policy landscape, emphasizing a shift toward pro-business deregulation, defence coordination, and a more assertive trade stance. However, political fragmentation in France, Germany, and the EU Parliament threatens implementation. Key tests include forging consensus on financial integration, securing majorities for market-friendly climate policies, and navigating unpredictable geopolitical shocks.

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The view from Doha

Ahmed Helal highlights the Middle East’s turbulent 2024 but notes that Gulf economies remain resilient, doubling down on diversification and deepening ties with Asia. As the US pulls back militarily, Gulf states are pivoting towards China for investment, trade, and technology—fuelling both economic transformation and geopolitical tension with Washington.

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The view from Berlin

Mohamed Hamzé warns that Germany faces a perfect storm of economic strain, political gridlock, and strained EU ties ahead of the 2025 elections. With rising far-right influence, fragile coalitions, and urgent fiscal challenges, governance will be tough. To stay competitive and influential, Germany must overhaul its outdated political and economic playbook—fast.

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