A Worldwide Overview of Elections from India to the USA
The year 2024 promises to be an exciting one as far as political turmoil is concerned. With over forty countries going for elections, the lineup is busier than usual. Beginning with Taiwan in January and reaching to US Presidential elections slated for November, 2024 promises to be a consequential year, to say the least as it will chart the course for democracy. Counties heading for elections next year include Mexico, geopolitical hotspots Pakistan and Taiwan, Indonesia, Venezuela, besides European allies including Belgium and Austria.
India
Prime Minister Modi’s popularity would surely suffice in propelling him towards third consecutive term in the year 2024. This is because of the credible, systematic changes in the country and India’s shining status on the global stage. Although the opposition parties have come together in the form of INDIA alliance, they lack a strong leader who can give a tough fight to Modi. The cross-country support that PM Modi commands is laudable. The G20 presidency was a showcase to show India’s digital prowess and reiterated the fact that the country is in the right hands with Prime Minister Modi.
Taiwan
Taiwan’s Presidential elections could have a major impact on US-China relations in the coming years, more so, if the current Vice President Lai Ching-te wins.
Indonesia
Indonesia will have elections in the month of February, with Prabowo Subianto leading in the race. African National Congress, the South African ruling party could lose its majority this year. The country would probably be governed by coalition of other parties. However, Indonesia maintains a balanced relation with other countries and will not be impacted much, even under a new leader.
European Union
Elections in the 27 European Union countries will influence the position of Europe with respect to other countries. Broadly speaking, EU enlargement will take centre stage and the balance between the left and right will be an important issue. With war raging in the backdrop, the turnout of elections in Russia will impact Kremlin and its invasion on Ukraine.
UK
The British electorate is struggling with a faltering economy and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak trying to reverse a 20-point polling gap against the opposition. Labour party looks like winning in the 2024 elections but nothing can be said for sure.
Russia
The cost, conduct and outcome of the war with Ukraine will remain the epicentre of Russian elections. Vladimir Putin would ideally like to conclude the war before the elections. If he is reelected, he would definitely be harder to replace in future.
USA
58% of the country believe that the US economy is deteriorating in the past two years. 73% of the people feel that President Joe Biden is too old to govern the country. Inspite of legal challenges, Trump continues to maintain a lead in national surveys.
In 2024, 40 countries making up for almost 50% of the global GDP will go for elections that will impact the geopolitial and democratic environment worldwide. These elections will cover approximately 2.3 billion population and thus, the results will set the stage for the coming years.
