As fireworks lit up the skies, starting with Sydney, the world waved goodbye to 2025 – a year marked by both celebration and deep reflection. Australia’s vibrant New Year’s Eve, traditionally a spectacle, carried a sombre note, with a moment of silence honouring victims of a recent mass shooting. This mixed emotion set the tone for a year that saw extreme weather, from scorching wildfires to devastating floods, reminding us of our planet’s fragility.
Globally, 2025 was a whirlwind. Political landscapes shifted with Donald Trump’s return to the White House, bringing tariffs and political divides into sharp focus. Geopolitical tensions persisted, with a fragile Gaza ceasefire and the ongoing war in Ukraine casting a shadow. Yet, there were moments of cultural uplift: the “Labubu doll” craze, BTS’s anticipated return, and a daring heist at the Louvre capturing imaginations. For many, however, economic uncertainty was a harsh reality, with people across the globe worrying about their livelihoods.
Looking ahead, 2026 promises a mix of exciting frontiers and pressing questions. Humanity sets its sights on the moon again with NASA’s Artemis II mission, while the booming world of Artificial Intelligence faces increasing scrutiny. Sports fans have much to anticipate, with the Winter Olympics in Italy and the biggest-ever FIFA World Cup across North America.
From difficult goodbyes to hopeful new beginnings, 2025 was a year of profound change. As the world turns the page, the hope for a brighter, more peaceful, and prosperous 2026 resonates across continents.
