Looking Back - 2024

Today we are marking the last days of 2024 of the Gregorian calendar.  The year has seen the continuation of major armed conflicts, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Isreal-Palestinian war, the Myanmar civil war, the Sudanese civil war, and the Islamist insurgency in the Sahel. In November, heavy fighting resumed in the Syrian civil war, leading to the toppling of Ba'athist Syria, with Bashar al-Assad fleeing Syria in December.

The ongoing Israel–Hamas war has led to spillover into numerous countries, most notably Lebanon, who Israel invaded in October. This followed an intensification of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. In the preceding month, Israel escalated an offensive against the group, including an attack using explosives-laden communication devices, and carrying out a bombing of its headquarters which resulted in the killing of the Secretary-General, Hassan Nasrallah. Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, had already been assassinated in the Iranian capital Tehran in July. The year also saw a rise in activity by the Houthi movement which has contributed to a crisis in the Red Sea that has impacted global shipping. The ongoing conflict has sparked widespread protests against the war.

Approximately 80 countries, representing around four billion people, conducted national elections throughout the course of the year, including eight out of ten of the world's most populous countries (Bangladesh, Brazil, Pakistan, Russia, India, Mexico, Indonesia, and the United States) as well as France, the United Kingdom, and Japan. The European Parliament also held elections.  Among democracies, over 80 percent saw the incumbent party lose support compared to the last election. Many of these incumbent losses were historic, some leaders who were ruling with their iron feats were forced to abduct their powers and fled the countries.

Let’s reflect on the key events of 2024—both joyous and challenging—that made this year memorable. Here’s a broad overview of what 2024 could be remembered for:

Happy Memories of 2024:

Scientific Advancements: Breakthroughs in AI applications in healthcare, such as real-time diagnostic tools and more personalized treatments. Progress in space exploration, with key missions such as the continued Mars rover advancements or lunar exploration efforts.

Global Celebrations: Major sporting events like the Paris Summer Olympics 2024, where athletes from all over the world came together to inspire unity. Cultural festivals and global holidays celebrated with more inclusivity and innovation.

Environmental Progress: Renewed global cooperation on climate initiatives, with several countries making strides in renewable energy adoption. Reforestation campaigns and biodiversity preservation efforts gaining momentum worldwide.

Technological Innovation: Growth in sustainable technology, including advancements in green energy vehicles and smart cities. The rise of Web3 and blockchain applications enhancing transparency in governance and businesses.

Personal Victories: Millions worldwide achieved personal milestones like graduations, marriages, career advancements, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Sad Memories of 2024:

Global Conflicts and Challenges: Ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in certain regions, highlighting the need for peace and diplomacy. The war between Israel and Palestinians, Russia-Ukraine, Upheaval in Bangladesh and Syria, Burma uprising and armed conflicts left 100 of thousands death and wounded.

Economic struggles in various parts of the world, including inflation and housing affordability issues.

Natural Disasters:  The year 2024 has indeed been a year marked by extreme natural disasters that underscored the urgency of addressing climate change and enhancing global disaster preparedness. Here's a closer look at the key events that caused havoc around the world:

Floods

South Asia: Monsoon rains brought devastating floods to parts of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, displacing millions and destroying infrastructure.

Europe: Unseasonal torrential rains caused flooding in Italy, Germany, and France, impacting historic cities and agricultural lands.

United States: Severe flooding in regions like California and the Midwest, caused by atmospheric rivers and heavy snowfall melting too quickly.

Fires

Canada: One of the worst wildfire seasons in history, with fires spreading across vast forests, forcing evacuations, and creating dangerous air quality across North America.

Australia: Bushfires reignited fears of 2019-like devastation, with massive wildlife loss and damage to ecosystems.

Mediterranean: Greece, Turkey, and Spain battled wildfires fueled by scorching heatwaves, severely affecting tourism and livelihoods.

Earthquakes

Turkey and Syria: Aftershocks of earlier earthquakes caused further destruction in regions still struggling to recover.

Asia-Pacific: Major tremors in Indonesia and the Philippines displaced thousands and caused widespread infrastructure damage.

Central America: Countries like Guatemala and Mexico experienced earthquakes that brought homes and schools crumbling down.

Temperature Rise and Heatwaves

Global Heatwaves: Record-breaking temperatures swept across Europe, North America, and Asia, leading to heatstroke cases, wildfires, and even deaths.

Polar Regions: Melting ice caps in Antarctica and Greenland contributed to rising sea levels, accelerating the risk of coastal flooding worldwide.

Ocean Temperatures: Marine heatwaves led to coral bleaching and devastated marine ecosystems, with ripple effects on fisheries and coastal communities.

Global Impact

Economic Losses: Trillions of dollars in damages due to destroyed infrastructure, lost agricultural output, and recovery costs.

Humanitarian Crises: Millions displaced, leaving them homeless and vulnerable, with limited access to food, water, and healthcare.

Environmental Stress: Accelerated loss of biodiversity, with ecosystems struggling to recover from recurring disasters.

Call to Action: Increased global pressure on governments and organizations to adopt aggressive climate policies and invest in renewable energy.

Loss of Iconic Figures:

The passing of influential leaders, artists, and public figures who left behind rich legacies but whose absence left the world mourning. Some of them include,

Manmohan Singh, India's 13th Prime Minister, passed away at 92 due to heart disease on December 26. He was a renowned economist and statesman who left an enduring impact on India's economic landscape. He began his career as an economist, serving in various roles, including as Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and Finance Minister. As Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, Singh oversaw a period of rapid economic growth, implemented key reforms, and strengthened India's global relationships.  Despite facing challenges and criticisms during his tenure, Singh remains respected for his integrity, humility, and dedication to public service. As a scholar, economist, and statesman, Manmohan Singh's contributions to India's growth and development will be remembered for generations to come.

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, died on December 29 at the age of 100.  He left an indelible mark on American history. As President from 1977 to 1981, Carter championed human rights, brokered the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and navigated the country through a period of high inflation and energy crisis.

Carter's legacy extends far beyond his presidency. After leaving office, he founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting democracy, human rights, and global health. Through his tireless work, Carter has become a respected voice on issues such as election monitoring, conflict resolution, and disease eradication. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his decades of commitment to peace and human rights. Carter's humility, compassion, and dedication to public service have inspired generations of Americans and people around the world, cementing his place as one of the most revered and beloved figures in American history.

Health Crises:

Continued struggles with public health challenges, including outbreaks or the long-term effects of past pandemics.

Technological Misuse:

Growing concerns over the misuse of AI and cybersecurity threats that challenged individuals' privacy and security.

Despite the challenges and sadness of 2024, the year has also been a powerful reminder of humanity's resilience and capacity for change. As we move into 2025, there is renewed hope for a healthier and more peaceful world. Communities worldwide are coming together to rebuild, innovate, and prioritize sustainability. Global efforts to combat climate change are gaining momentum, scientific advancements are improving lives, and the spirit of unity and compassion continues to inspire progress. With lessons learned and determination strengthened, 2025 holds the promise of brighter days ahead for our planet and all who call it home.

Happy New Year 2025 to you all!!