Intense global electoral cycle
2024 has been a year marked by an unprecedented electoral cycle, with more than 70 countries holding elections involving more than 4 billion people. This phenomenon has tested democratic systems around the world, revealing both the resilience and fragility of political institutions.
In terms of its impact, it has redefined the global political landscape, influencing international relations and decision-making on crucial issues such as climate change and international security.
Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
In 2024, generative AI stood out as a transformative technology, revolutionizing sectors such as healthcare, design and manufacturing, while driving innovation with fast and efficient solutions. However, it also raised ethical and security challenges, such as the use of deepfakes in disinformation, highlighting the need for global regulation and proper training. In addition, it showed great potential for sustainability, optimizing resources and addressing climate challenges. Its future impact will depend on balancing innovation, ethics and regulation.
Climate change and its effects on Quality of Life
Climate change in 2024 severely impacted the quality of life by intensifying phenomena such as droughts, floods and heat waves that affected millions of households around the world. This year showed how vulnerable communities suffer the most, facing economic losses, health problems and forced displacement. We also learned that climate action is key to ensuring a sustainable and sustainable future. Advances in clean energy and green technologies showed that change is possible, but require greater political will and global cooperation to protect our collective well-being.
Proliferation of armed conflicts
In 2024, the world faced the largest number of active conflicts since World War II, with wars in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan and Yemen intensifying global instability. These crises exacerbated humanitarian emergencies, displacing millions and exposing the limitations of international institutions to manage conflicts and maintain peace. This year underscored the urgency of strengthening global cooperation, prioritizing preventive diplomacy and ensuring an effective humanitarian response to avoid the collapse of international security and stability.
Persistent human rights and health challenges
In Afghanistan, the situation of women's and girls' rights has worsened significantly under the Taliban regime, with severe restrictions on access to education and healthcare. In many countries, marginalized communities continue to face barriers in accessing adequate health services. This includes LGBTI people, ethnic minorities and people with disabilities. Inequalities persist in global access to vaccines and treatments, which has led to calls for a more equitable distribution of medical resources.
On the rights of older adults, the UN Open-ended Working Group on Ageing adopted a landmark decision at its 14th session, May 2024, pointing out gaps in the protection of the rights of older persons and recommending a new international instrument. This could lead to the realization of a UN convention on the rights of older persons, which is crucial to adequately protect their access to health care and other fundamental rights.