“The Voldemort of years. The annus horribilis. The year that must not be named.”
That’s how 2024 has been described when it comes to the global crises that are popping around the world.
Whether 2024 turns out to be as bad as the archenemy in the Harry Potter novels or the Latin phrase meaning “horrible year” is anyone’s guess. What’s clear is that what seemed certain a year ago is likely to be cast aside by fresh risks, new records broken, an unforeseen event that upends the world as we know it. Wars will rumble on. Geopolitical shifts will accelerate, or stall.
So it was in 2023 and so it’s likely to be in 2024. Though there are some things that appear more certain.
International news to watch in 2023:Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Climate catastrophe
Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide
“Three wars will dominate world affairs,” wrote analysts from the Eurasia Group think tank, who, in their annual forecast on global affairs, labeled 2024 the Voldemort of years.
“Russia vs. Ukraine, now in its third year; Israel vs. Hamas, now in its third month; and the United States vs. itself, ready to kick off at any moment.”
Here are some international stories, themes and wildcards to look out for in 2024.
Taiwan, Russia, Ukraine − it’s not just the U.S. facing important elections
An all-but-certain rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump is gripping the world in 2024. But with more…
