In various elections held around the world this year, dissatisfied voters have shown their disapproval towards long-ruling governments on both the right and left. From India to South Africa to Britain, established parties faced challenges as global power dynamics shift and political certainties crumble.
Forty-plus countries have already held elections in 2024, with many more still to come. Major upcoming elections include the U.S. presidential election in November, which was jolted by an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
Factors like the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic struggles, and rising prices for essentials have left voters yearning for change. Issues like inflation and unemployment have played significant roles in recent elections, as seen in India where Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party lost its parliamentary majority and in South Africa where the African National Congress faced a significant loss of support after decades of governance.
Tensions between global powers were also evident in elections, such as in Taiwan, where the Democratic Progressive Party won amid increased military pressure from China. In Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured a fourth term in an election criticized by some for lacking credibility.
Political dynasties also had their share of influence in some countries, with family ties helping to maintain power structures. In Indonesia, former Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto secured the presidency amid allegations of fraud and nepotism.
The rise of far-right parties in Europe, unstable democracies facing challenges, and the uncertainty surrounding important upcoming elections, such as in Venezuela and South Sudan, reflect the shifting landscape of global politics and power dynamics.
The world is witnessing a transition marked by an anti-globalization sentiment, a resurgence of nationalism, and a push against multilateralism according to experts like Neil Melvin, Director of International Security at the Royal United Services Institute.
This year’s elections have provided a glimpse into the evolving international order, where traditional political norms are being challenged, and new realities are emerging across the globe.
