The year 2024 has been marked by significant political events worldwide, reflecting shifts in leadership, policy directions, and public sentiment. Here are some of the most notable developments:
United States Presidential Election
In November, Donald Trump was elected President of the United States, defeating incumbent President Joe Biden. This election marked Trump’s return to the presidency, having previously served from 2017 to 2021.
United Kingdom General Election
On July 4, the United Kingdom held a general election resulting in a victory for the Labour Party. Keir Starmer became the Prime Minister, succeeding Rishi Sunak.
European Parliament Elections
The European Parliament elections in June saw significant gains for far-right parties across member states, leading to notable defeats for centrist leaders in countries like France and Germany.
South African General Election
In May, South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) lost its parliamentary majority for the first time since the end of apartheid. This historic shift indicates changing political dynamics within the country.
Mexican General Election
Claudia Sheinbaum made history in June by becoming the first woman elected as President of Mexico, signalling a significant milestone in the nation’s political landscape.
Global Election Trends
Throughout 2024, over 60 countries conducted national elections, making it one of the most active years for global democracy. A notable trend was the decline in support for incumbent parties, with many losing vote share or power, reflecting widespread public desire for change.
These events underscore a dynamic year in global politics, characterized by leadership changes and evolving political sentiments across various regions.