In 2024, Donald Trump returned to global leadership amid escalating wars and emerging conflicts. Meanwhile, sports and cinema brought unity. These events significantly impacted global politics and future dynamics. Let’s explore the key events that shaped global politics.
Regional Blocs Gain Momentum
The year began with BRICS expanding its membership, adding Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Ethiopia. The bloc’s summit in Kazan emphasized financial independence and its growing influence in global geopolitics.
Putin’s Opposition Silenced
Alexei Navalny, Russia’s prominent critic, died under suspicious circumstances in a Siberian penal colony. His death marked a blow to opposition voices and highlighted Russia’s suppression of dissent.
NATO Expands
Sweden joined NATO, abandoning its neutrality, marking a significant shift in the region’s security dynamics amid ongoing tensions with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.
South Korea’s Political Shift
South Korea witnessed a political upheaval as the Democratic Alliance won parliamentary elections. President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, and Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok assumed the role of acting president.
Iranian President Dies in Crash
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi died in a helicopter crash, leading to reformist Masoud Pezeshkian winning the subsequent election. However, decision-making power remains with Iran’s Supreme Leader.
Tragedy During Hajj
Over 1,300 pilgrims died during the annual Hajj in Saudi Arabia due to extreme heat and inadequate facilities, prompting criticism of the event’s management.
Julian Assange Returns to Australia
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange ended his legal saga, returning to Australia after pleading guilty to disclosing classified U.S. documents, receiving a warm welcome from supporters.
NASA’s Starliner Setback
NASA’s Starliner mission faced delays after technical issues during a test flight. Astronauts aboard the ISS will remain there until February 2025, returning via a SpaceX capsule.
Major Prisoner Exchange
In the largest prisoner swap since the Cold War, Russia and the West exchanged 24 prisoners, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, highlighting tense international relations.
France’s Political Crisis
French Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government collapsed after a no-confidence vote, plunging the country into political turmoil as President Macron searches for a new leader.
Assad’s Regime Falls
Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad’s regime crumbled after 14 years of civil war, ending the Assad family’s 54-year rule and leaving the nation in uncertainty.
India’s Chess Prodigy Triumphs
India’s Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion at 18, defeating Ding Liren and solidifying India’s prominence in the chess world.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As 2024 concludes, its pivotal moments—from political upheavals to personal triumphs—set the stage for an uncertain yet hopeful future.
