1. COVID-19 Vaccines Arrive, but Challenges Persist

The COVID-19 vaccines developed in record time were widely distributed, saving millions of lives. However, vaccine hesitancy, unequal access, and new variants like Delta and Omicron posed significant challenges. By year-end, over 5 million people globally and 800,000 Americans had died from COVID-19.

2. Countries Fail the Climate Change Challenge—Again

Despite dire warnings, including a UN report calling for drastic action, countries failed to make significant progress in reducing emissions. Extreme weather events like droughts, floods, and wildfires dominated the news. President Biden rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement, but concrete actions remained elusive.

3. Joe Biden Becomes President, Shifts US Foreign Policy

Joe Biden’s presidency marks a tone shift in US foreign policy, reentering the Paris Climate Agreement and World Health Organization. However, his unilateral actions, such as the Afghanistan withdrawal and AUKUS pact, raised concerns among allies.

4. Global Democratic Erosion Continues

The global decline of democratic governance persist, with the US, India, and Brazil experiencing significant challenges. The US was labeled a “backsliding democracy” after the January 6 insurrection, while India’s and Brazil’s leaders faced criticism for authoritarian tendencies.

5. Ethiopia’s Civil War Worsens

Ethiopia’s conflict escalates, displacing over 2 million people and threatening regional stability. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government clashed with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, committing war crimes and sparking humanitarian crises.

6. The Taliban Returns to Power in Afghanistan

The Taliban seizes control of Afghanistan following the US withdrawal, prompting widespread concern over human rights and regional security. The US spent over $2.3 trillion and lost 2,500 service members in the 20-year conflict.

7. Supply Chains Falter

COVID-19 exposed supply chain vulnerabilities, leading to shortages and inflation. Disruptions in shipping, manufacturing, and labor markets affected various industries, from computer chips to food and fuel.

8. Iran’s Nuclear Program Advances

Iran’s nuclear program progressed, with the country enriching uranium to near-weapons grade. Negotiations stalled, and the US faced increasing pressure to address the issue.

9. Migration Crises Test Rich Countries

Migration surges at the US-Mexico border and in Europe strained resources and tested governments’ resolve. The humanitarian crisis in Belarus and tensions between France and the UK highlighted the need for cooperative solutions.

10. The AUKUS Security Pact Emerges

The AUKUS security pact, forged by the US, Australia, and the UK, aimed to counter Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific. The deal included the US providing Australia with nuclear-powered submarine technology, sparking controversy and Chinese condemnation.