From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the azure shores of the Pacific, billions around the world are converging on the ballot box in 2024. The world stands at a precipice, awaiting the collective will of its people.
2024 emerges as a year of unprecedented significance. With elections looming in over 64 countries around the globe, the world holds its breath in anticipation of the seismic shifts these elections will bring.
“Democracy is the heartbeat of humanity. With democracy comes freedom and half of the world is voting this year. We are standing at a milestone,” said South African resident Narendra Khesav.
What makes 2024 different?
At least 64 countries, representing nearly half of the world’s population, are poised to conduct national elections this year. The results of these elections hold the potential to affect generations to come.
“There are always those moments in time that can come to define who we are. This is one of those moments,” said Indian resident Dhansukhlal Rama.
In addition, the geopolitical stakes have never been higher. From simmering tensions in the Taiwan Strait to the enduring humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the outcomes of these elections have real and relevant implications both at home and abroad.
“It feels like everywhere you turn, there’s this heavy, lingering presence of violence and conflict. These elections will determine how long we can sit back and tolerate these injustices,” said American resident Shali Reader.
In many ways, the choices made by voters in 2024 have the potential to reshape alliances, redraw borders, and redefine the balance of power in the international theater.
What elections to keep an eye on?
The eyes of the world are fixed on the American electorate, as the decisions made in the polling booths this year reverberate far beyond the nation’s shores. From international trade to global climate efforts, the outcome of this electoral showdown will cause shockwaves in the modern geopolitical landscape.
“Similarly, the US isn’t just another player; it’s like the captain of the team. Its decisions ripple out across the world,” said Rama.
In the parliamentary corridors of Brussels, the European Union stands at a crossroads as well. As voters across the continent cast their ballots, the composition of the EU Parliament takes center stage.
“It is all so unpredictable. We will have to see how each country in the EU votes,” said UK resident Prashil Sukla.
Against the backdrop of tension with Beijing, the choice of Taiwan’s next leader carries profound implications. Ruling party Lai Ching-te’s recent victory has been met with stark resistance as China views him as a dangerous separatist.
“Tension between Taiwan and China is not new. But, the upcoming election cycle could either calm the storm or ignite a wildfire,” said Ativ Asarawala (‘24).
Across the English Channel, the United Kingdom grapples with its own political turbulence as it heads to the polls amidst increasing distaste for the current Conservative leadership.
“Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party are losing ground. After years in power, we can feel a hunger for change. This year may see a complete change in leadership,” said Sukla.
Elections in Africa, Asia, South America, and elsewhere hold immense significance for global policy-making as well. The outcomes of such elections (particularly those in the developing world) often shape regional international cooperation efforts and will serve as a telling tale of what the future entails.
Why should we care about elections?
Politics is the thread that weaves through every aspect of our existence, shaping the fabric of our societies. Moreover, these elections hold the power to chart the course not just for individual nations, but for the entire globe.
“2024 is shaping up to be one heck of a year. It’s one for the history books,” said Reader.
Beyond borders, these electoral outcomes will cast a profound shadow on the global stage. From international relations to trade pacts and diplomatic ties, the decisions made by voters will reverberate across continents. In an interconnected world, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
“The future of my children, my grandchildren, my great-grandchildren — in many ways, this election is going to impact them all,” said Khesav.
2024 marks a pivotal moment in history, where the choices made by citizens will carve the path forward for their nations and beyond. It’s imperative for voters to approach this juncture with a keen sense of duty, awareness, and thoughtful decision-making as we venture into a new era.
