Top eight global issues that shaped 2024

The year 2024 has unfolded as one of profound upheaval and global tension, with major political, social, and humanitarian crises dominating headlines across the globe. From the corridors of power in Washington to the embattled streets of Kyiv, the world finds itself at a pivotal crossroads.

The US Elections

In the United States, the race for the presidency captured international attention, with fierce debates over democracy, economic inequality, and climate policy.

In a decisive victory, Arizona swung red in the final count of the U.S. presidential election, awarding President-elect Donald Trump 11 electoral votes and bringing his total to 312, well above the 270 threshold needed to win.

Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump’s main rival, trailed with 226 electoral votes, according to U.S. networks.

Trump’s win in Arizona marked the completion of a sweep across all seven key swing states, securing another crucial state that had supported Joe Biden in 2020.

The election is shaping up to be one of the most polarizing in recent history, with candidates offering starkly different visions for the nation’s future.

Allegations of misinformation campaigns and election interference have only added fuel to an already incendiary political landscape.

Iran-Israel Conflict

The Middle East has once again become the epicenter of global unrest as tensions between Iran and Israel escalate into open conflict.

The war has drawn condemnation and concern from nations worldwide, with fears of a broader regional conflict looming large. Civilians on both sides are bearing the brunt, with humanitarian organizations struggling to provide aid amidst the chaos.

Plane crashes

A spate of tragic plane crashes has renewed scrutiny over aviation safety in 2024. South Korea Plane Crash (December 28, 2024): A Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air crashed at Muan Airport in South Korea, killing 179 people.

Azerbaijan Plane Crash (December 25, 2024): An Azerbaijan Airlines plane crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 39 people and leaving 29 survivors.

Brazil VoePass Plane Crash (August 11, 2024): An ATR-72 operated by VoePass crashed in Vinhedo, Brazil, killing all 62 people on board.

Nepal Small Plane Crash (July 24, 2024): A CRJ-200 operated by Saurya Airlines crashed in Kathmandu, Nepal, killing 19 people and leaving 1 survivor.

Russia-Ukraine War: No End in Sight

The protracted war between Russia and Ukraine continues to exact a devastating toll, with no resolution in sight.

Despite international sanctions and diplomatic efforts, the conflict has intensified, displacing millions and destabilising Eastern Europe.

Both nations remain locked in a deadly stalemate, with global economic repercussions rippling outward.

Kenya Protests

In Kenya, widespread protests against government corruption, inflation, and unemployment have gripped the nation. Demonstrators, led by youth movements and civil society groups, have faced violent crackdowns by security forces.

There, demonstrations by led by the so-called Gen Z, a name given to the cohort of young people between the ages of 13 and 27, compelled President William Ruto to dismiss his entire cabinet and revoke an unpopular tax hike bill. This also inspired neighboring Uganda to hold a brief protest.

ALSO READ: Kano deputy gov commends AKCILS on new degree programme

World Inflation: A Shared Struggle

Soaring inflation continues to plague economies worldwide, exacerbating inequality and eroding purchasing power.

From food prices in developing nations to energy costs in Europe, inflation has become a universal concern.

Central banks are grappling with balancing interest rate hikes to curb inflation while avoiding economic recessions, leaving millions in financial uncertainty.

According to recent UN statements, the organization is expressing concern about the ongoing global inflation crisis, calling for more “pragmatic” policies from central banks to tackle it, particularly highlighting the need for coordinated international action to address supply chain disruptions and commodity price volatility, which are major contributors to rising inflation worldwide.

The Climate Crisis: A Silent Emergency

Overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, the climate crisis continues to wreak havoc. Record-breaking heatwaves, catastrophic floods, and raging wildfires have underlined the urgency of global action. Yet, meaningful progress remains elusive as nations grapple with competing priorities.

READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE