2024: World Politics-There was political unrest in many countries – Part 4 

Kazi Abul Monsur,Journalist#
In this revised edition, we’ll cover key political events, including Donald Trump’s influence in the 2024 US presidential election, Bashar al-Assad’s role in Middle Eastern geopolitics, and Sheikh Hasina’s escape to India amidst Bangladesh’s internal turmoil. These are pivotal moments shaping the political landscape across the world in 2024.

Donald Trump’s Political Resurgence and the 2024 US Elections
Donald Trump has once again taken center stage in US politics as the 2024 presidential race intensifies. After enduring legal battles and numerous controversies, Trump emerged as the frontrunner for the Republican Party nomination, securing his position despite challenges from both the Democratic and Republican camps. His resilience in the face of legal adversity has been a defining feature of his campaign, with many supporters viewing his legal troubles as part of a broader political persecution by the establishment.

In 2024, Trump’s political messaging has largely revolved around a platform of “America First,” emphasizing nationalism, economic protectionism, and skepticism towards international alliances. His return to the political spotlight has also brought attention to his stance on immigration, trade policies, and foreign interventions, which continue to be central themes in his rallies.

However, his candidacy has faced significant opposition from President Joe Biden, who is seeking re-election in 2024. While Biden has maintained a firm stance on climate action, healthcare, and international alliances like NATO, Trump’s rhetoric has resonated deeply with a sizable portion of the electorate, particularly in key swing states. In many ways, the 2024 race is a battle between Biden’s vision of a globalized world and Trump’s vision of America’s sovereignty.

As election day approaches, both Trump’s legal troubles and his ability to rally conservative voters are pivotal to the outcome. His campaign has stirred intense debates over issues like freedom of speech, election integrity, and America’s role in global geopolitics. How the courts, political institutions, and voters ultimately respond to his candidacy will likely set the tone for the future of American democracy.

Bashar al-Assad: A Return to the Global Stage
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has made a significant political return in 2024. After years of isolation and civil war, Assad has steadily regained control over much of Syria, with the support of Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah. His efforts to rebuild Syria’s shattered economy and infrastructure have seen mixed results, with significant humanitarian and reconstruction challenges still facing the country.

Internationally, Assad has sought to reintegrate Syria into the Arab League and other diplomatic forums, hoping to break free from years of sanctions and isolation. In 2024, Assad has had several high-profile meetings with leaders from both the Middle East and beyond, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, reinforcing his position as a key figure in regional geopolitics.

However, his return to prominence has been controversial. Western governments, particularly the United States, continue to view Assad as a dictator responsible for atrocities during the Syrian Civil War, including the use of chemical weapons and attacks on civilian populations. The EU has maintained sanctions on Assad’s regime, citing human rights abuses and the ongoing repression of political opposition.

Yet, despite international criticism, Assad’s relationships with countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Egypt have warmed, indicating a shift in the Middle East’s approach to his rule. In 2024, several Arab nations have reestablished diplomatic ties with Syria, signaling a potential re-alignment in regional politics.

One of the most significant diplomatic developments in 2024 was Syria’s participation in the BRICS summit, as it seeks to bolster economic ties with emerging economies, including China and India, and break away from Western hegemony.

Bangladesh: Political Crisis and PM Sheikh Hasina’s Escape to India
In Bangladesh, 2024 has seen a dramatic shift in the political environment, particularly with the forced exile of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Amid growing political violence and protests, Hasina fled to India in January 2024, seeking asylum after threats to her life and escalating unrest.

The political crisis in Bangladesh stems from allegations of electoral fraud, human rights violations, and suppression of the opposition. Hasina’s Awami League party has been accused of undermining democracy, while the opposition calls for fresh elections and a fair political process.

Hasina’s temporary departure to India has triggered a political vacuum in Bangladesh. Her absence has sparked debates about the future of Bangladesh’s democracy, with calls for free and fair elections. India, despite welcoming Hasina temporarily, has urged all political factions to engage in dialogue to restore stability and democratic governance in Bangladesh.

While in India, Hasina’s international influence has remained significant, as she seeks to ensure that her legacy of economic growth and regional cooperation is not overshadowed by the turmoil in her country.

 Global Political Tensions and Major Shifts in 2024
Beyond Trump and Assad, 2024 has seen a range of political developments that have shaped global diplomacy:

US-China Relations: As tensions continue over trade, technology, and Taiwan, the rivalry between the United States and China has become more pronounced. Both nations have engaged in diplomatic brinkmanship, with each side attempting to outmaneuver the other in global institutions.

Ukraine Crisis: The war in Ukraine remains at the forefront of European geopolitics. Russia has continued its military offensives, while Ukraine, bolstered by Western support, has pushed back. The European Union remains divided on how far it should go in supporting Ukraine, and the conflict has had significant implications for global energy markets and NATO’s role in Eastern Europe.

Middle East Diplomacy: The region has seen renewed diplomatic engagements, especially with Israel’s increasing normalization of relations with Arab countries. However, the Palestinian question and the Iran nuclear deal continue to create tension, with Israel and Iran locked in a tense geopolitical standoff.

Africa’s Political Landscape: Countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Chad have witnessed significant military coups in 2024, leading to instability and shifts in governance. The African Union and the international community have called for dialogue and democratic reforms to address the crisis.

Looking Ahead: Global Political Trends in 2024
The political trends of 2024 have created a fractured yet dynamic global environment. From Trump’s political resurgence in the United States to Bashar al-Assad’s return to prominence in Syria, political leaders are navigating a world shaped by populism, regional power struggles, and the shifting tides of international diplomacy. The situation in Bangladesh will continue to draw international attention, as the world watches closely to see whether Sheikh Hasina can return to power or whether a new chapter of governance will unfold.

As global powers assert their influence in an increasingly multipolar world, 2024 will set the stage for the future of global politics, with issues such as climate change, trade wars, and military conflicts continuing to dominate international discourse.#