Global events are significant global changes that have a broad impact on people and places around the world. These events can cause economic, environmental and social disruptions. They can also spark international political crises and influence the development of international relations.
The speed of communication in the 21st century enables us to have instant access to global news and developments. The ubiquity of mobile phones and social media can amplify the impact of global events, but it can also contribute to misinformation.
Global events often prompt shifts in foreign policy, influencing everything from trade agreements to military commitments. The repercussions of these events can also vary between nations based on their economic status, political ideologies and social structures.
A global event could be an economic crisis, a climate catastrophe or even a war. Whether it is an outbreak of disease or a conflict between countries, the effects of these events are felt by everyone, including local communities.
For example, the global event of climate change is causing droughts across Europe and record heat waves in Pakistan. It has weakened the economies of many countries, as they struggle to balance their budgets and provide economic help to those affected.
Similarly, a global event such as a volcanic eruption can affect all parts of the world. The Laki eruption of 1783 caused an atmospheric haze and ‘dry sulphurous fog’ that was seen in Europe, Asia and Russia. However, not all places were impacted by the eruption, suggesting that the blanket statement ‘globalisation and global events impact all places’ is largely untrue.