This year has been defined by profound challenges and transformative shifts across the globe. Intensifying conflicts, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the civil wars in Myanmar and Sudan and the Islamist insurgency in the Sahel, have left indelible marks. In Syria, November's fierce battles led to the collapse of Ba'athist rule, with Bashar al-Assad fleeing the country by December.
The Middle East experienced heightened turmoil, as the Israel-Hamas war spilled into neighboring regions. Israel’s invasion of Lebanon in October followed a strategic offensive against Hezbollah and the assassination of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, alongside a prior strike on Hamas’s Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Adding to regional instability, the Houthi movement disrupted Red Sea trade routes, triggering global economic concerns and widespread protests.
Politically, 2024 was a year of dramatic change. Elections in nearly 80 nations witnessed historic shifts, with incumbent parties losing ground in democracies such as Japan, Botswana and South Africa. Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye made history with a first-round presidential victory, while Sri Lanka saw a sweeping win for the National People's Power party.
In a historic comeback, Donald Trump regained the US presidency, becoming the first leader in 132 years to serve a non-consecutive second term. European Parliament elections and votes in many populous nations highlighted a global trend: declining support for established ruling parties.
As we approach the year’s end, we invite you to join us on Friday, December 27th, at 10:00 GMT for a reflective discussion on the events that have shaped 2024. Thank you for your ongoing support and contributions to a year filled with meaningful conversations and insights. Together, we step boldly into 2025, ready to turn challenges into opportunities and shape a brighter future.
