As 2016 is about to conclude, here are some of the international political events that have set the public discourse.The rise of the right in Europe, recurrent terror attacks across the world, referendums and the refugee crisis in West Asia, were some of the most prominent events in this year.
1. Brexit
It signified a watershed moment in the functioning structure of the European Union. The United Kingdom got separated from the European Union (EU) after people voted in the referendum.The Brexit referendum was dull, to say the least. The cold-blooded murder of Jo Cox, a Labour MP campaigning for Bremain. Nevertheless, the results reflected the nation’s mood against globalisation and the liberal immigration policy of the European Union. And to some extent, the disenchantment with the economic policy of EU. Many Brexit voters regretted later for falling into the trap of Brexit campaigners, but regrettably, the damage had been done. How Britain rejuvenates itself without the EU, is yet to be seen.
2. Trump
Seriously, even Trump was not serious about getting into the White House. A person who refers to climate change as a hoax, makes a bid to expand nuclear capabilities, threatens the outsourcing of jobs, calls for building a wall to stop the influx of refugees, became the most powerful person on the planet. Public mood once again represented an anger against globalisation, liberalisation and immigration. His vow to vehemently fight the ISIS also fetched him votes from people who fear terrorism expanding its roots in the West. Nonetheless, Trump’s presidency might have a silver lining if he abandons the policy of the USA and joins hands with Kremlin to fight ISIS. It could be a ray of hope for the millions stranded in the bloody fight in West Asia.
3. Columbia
The five-decade-old war in Columbia, led by FARC rebels, that left millions displaced and thousands killed, finally came to an end.The pro-activeness of Columbian president John Manuel Santos in inking the agreement with the rebels fetched him the Nobel Peace Prize. Though the people rejected the terms of agreement in a referendum held in early October, Santos did not concede defeat and continued to talk with the rebels for a better peace deal to soothe the public anger.
4. Turkey
Turkey was witness to a tumultuous political event this year, as a coup was attempted, which ended in failure. Uncertainty and suspense loomed over the night, but as the bright rays of sun started to fall on Turkey, news of the failure of the coup started to diffuse everywhere. Turkey also became a victim of many terrorist attacks, the most despicable being the attack at the Istanbul airport. The killing of a Russian by a security personnel was a diplomatic humiliation for the Turkish establishment.
5. South Korea
People went onto the streets demanding the resignation of Park Geun Hye, for her alleged financial corruption. An impeachment motion against her has been passed in the Parliament and is currently under the scrutiny of the country’s constitutional court. The public sentiment and outcry against Park waned down her popularity and has given a severe blow to her future political ambitions.
6. West Asia
Afganistan, Libya, Yemen, Syria and Iraq continue to be stranded between different global, regional and extremist powers seeking to establish their empire over the tumultuous region. The rebels have lost Aleppo and ISIS is on the verge of losing Mosul in Iraq. The world would be a very peaceful place without ISIS and one hopes that NATO and Russia would intensify their fight against ISIS.
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