Europe, more predominantly, Eastern Europe and Russia is the focus. If Europe came in the news in 2007, it was primarily due to one man, Vladimir Putin. If there were any visible signs of a Soviet revival, Vladimir Putin can usher in that revival. Russia's neighbours were plagued with deadlock in their politics. The Orange revolution in Ukraine seemed to be losing momentum, and it was just recently that a compromise solution was worked out. After months of haggling, a government is functioning in Ukraine.
Georgia was also plagued with protests regarding an arrest of a politician. The Rose revolution, which worked for President Mikhail Sakaashvilli proved to also be his undoing. Geo-Politics also dominated Central Europe, with the proposed plan of the United States to install a Missile Defense shield programme in the Czech Republic and other places. The US was setting up detterents against Iran, and so this contributed to tensions between the US and Russia. Poland witnessed a period of intense nationalism, with the Kwaczyneski twins running the show. Relations between Poland and Germany became strained, but with the coming to power of a new moderate Prime Minister, Poland is back on track.
The issues that will plague the EU and the others would be the factor of Immigration. People from Poland, the Baltics and Romania are moving west, and this will test the foundation on which the EU is expanding. This coming years may see more expansion, but it will also test the economic and social strength of the EU.
South America has been on the News Radar ever since the rise of Hugo Chavez. His election has bought in a rise of the Left wing in South America, from Evo Moraeles in Bolivia to another in Ecuador and Peru. This region continues to be in the news for economic, Anti-US feelings and some regional conflicts, most notably in Colombia. This year witnessed the strengthening of the Socialist doctrine in South America. Chavez and Castro are now the two most charismatic individuals in that part of the globe, and their appeal grows stronger every year.
Their appeal may be an Anathema to others. This year witnessed Venezuela souring its relations with Colombia and with the Spanish Monarch. But, at the same time, Chavez has helped in mediating certain situations regarding the FARC rebels and the Colombian government. It mostly dealt with hostages and prisoners taken on both the sides. But, while Chavez grows in Popularity, Fidel Castro may be at the end of it.
His ill health may see him relinquish power in Cuba, and this may set the precedent for a new political outlook in the region, although not drastic. While his brother, Raul continues to be a caretaker, many people feel that Castro might be on his way out. The region also saw the coronation of a woman president in Argentina. Nestor Kirschener's wife took over the powers of president, thus emulating the Peron regime. The continent may be the only one in the world which has two woman premiers, with Chile's Michelle Bachelet.
Natural disasters wrecked havoc in Central America, with Honduras and Nicaragua bearing the brunt. Nationalization of Natural Gas reserves in Bolivia, and the demand for Autonomy might shape its outlook in 2008. Peru is right now witnessing the trial of the former PM, Alberto Fujimori, who is believed to be guilty of human rights violation and corruption. South America might be something to look forward to in 2008, but unless the system in individual countries collapses because of unexpected threats, the region has a bright future. The best bet to preserve this could be Brazil, with its booming economy and also with the discovery of Oil in its coastline.
The Middle East and the Sub-continent will be looked at in the next post
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