In 2024, the United States presidential election between Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump dominated global headlines. Trump emerged victorious in a decisive victory, leading to speculation about his upcoming second term. However, the past year also witnessed critical developments worldwide. From Israel’s bombardment of Gaza to the war in Sudan and the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, significant events shaped the global political landscape.
In the Americas region, 2024 was marked by changing political landscapes, dissent crackdowns, deadly violence, and the worsening impact of the climate crisis. Seven stories have stood out in the region, including Venezuela’s disputed election, Haiti’s surge in gang violence, and accusations against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The violence in Sinaloa, Mexico, following the arrest of cartel boss Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia, added to the challenges faced by new president Claudia Sheinbaum.
Ecuador and Cuba grappled with energy crises exacerbated by climate change, while Canada accused Indian agents of involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The simmering diplomatic row between Canada and India escalated, leading to the expulsion of diplomatic staff from both countries. Meanwhile, Argentina saw a surge in poverty under far-right President Javier Milei’s libertarian economic policies, leading to widespread protests against austerity measures.
The situation in Venezuela was marred by mass protests after President Nicolas Maduro won a disputed third term. The opposition accused Maduro of fraud in the election, leading to a violent government crackdown on protesters. The unrest resulted in numerous deaths, arrests, and a heightened state of repression. Despite promises to release full voting tallies, Maduro has failed to do so, further exacerbating tensions in the country.
Haiti experienced a deepening crisis due to escalating gang violence and political infighting following the ouster of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. The formation of a transitional council aimed to lead Haiti through a period of political transition, but ongoing violence and insecurity forced many Haitians to flee their homes. The deployment of a UN-backed police mission has been ineffective in curbing the power of armed gangs, which now control a significant portion of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
In Brazil, former President Jair Bolsonaro faced allegations of involvement in a coup attempt to overturn his narrow defeat in the 2022 election. Bolsonaro and several others were accused of planning a violent overthrow of the government to prevent his rival, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, from assuming power. Bolsonaro denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the accusations as a political witch hunt. The allegations added to the political turmoil in Brazil, raising concerns about the country’s democratic future under the shadow of authoritarian tendencies.
