1. Israel-Palestine Conflict: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine has seen a surge in violence and tensions, particularly in the Gaza Strip, resulting in widespread news coverage and global attention throughout the year.
2. Afghanistan Peace Process: The United States and NATO’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, along with negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban, has been a significant peace process that garnered international attention. However, the situation remains precarious, with increasing violence and uncertain outcomes.
3. Myanmar Coup and Protests: The military coup in Myanmar in February 2021 sparked widespread protests against military rule, leading to a brutal crackdown by the military junta. The ongoing civil unrest, including clashes and mass arrests, have been widely reported.
4. Ethiopia’s Tigray Conflict: The conflict between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) in the Tigray region has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with reports of ethnic violence, displacement, and atrocities. The global community has closely followed the escalating conflict and its repercussions.
5. Ukraine-Russia Conflict: The simmering conflict between Ukraine and Russia, particularly in the eastern Donbass region, continues to make headlines due to sporadic clashes, ceasefire violations, and tensions between the two countries.
6. Colombia Protests: Large-scale protests erupted in Colombia in April 2021, initially triggered by proposed tax reforms but expanding to broader anti-government sentiments and socioeconomic grievances. The protests have been marked by clashes with security forces, human rights concerns, and calls for systemic changes.
7. Nigeria Insecurity and Boko Haram: Nigeria has been grappling with multiple security challenges, including an Islamist insurgency by Boko Haram in the northeast, banditry, and communal conflicts. These issues have caused significant unrest and have received widespread media attention.
8. China-Hong Kong Tensions: Ongoing tensions between China and Hong Kong over issues of autonomy, democracy, and civil liberties have attracted international scrutiny, especially with the implementation of stringent national security laws and crackdowns on pro-democracy activists.
9. Kashmir Dispute: The long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan over the disputed territory of Kashmir remains a significant flashpoint. Ongoing clashes between security forces, militant groups, and civilian unrest have garnered consistent international attention.
10. Venezuela Crisis: The political and economic crisis in Venezuela has continued to make headlines as the country grapples with hyperinflation, food shortages, political repression, and migration challenges. The situation has had significant regional and global ramifications.