One world, one year: Pictures that defined 2024

Step into the story of 2024 through 18 powerful images that span continents and emotions. This photo feature takes you through the defining moments of the year—from the electric energy of political rallies and breathtaking sporting victories to the heartbreak of natural disasters and the courage of human struggles. Each image captures a slice of life from 18 countries, revealing the challenges, triumphs, and spirit of people around the globe. Together, they weave a vivid and unforgettable portrait of a transformative year.

RALLYING FOR MODI

Supporters of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi wear masks of his face at a bustling election rally in Meerut, India, reflecting the fervour of the world’s largest democracy. This year, India held the world’s largest election, an exercise that spanned seven phases of voting over the course of a month and a half. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance returning to power with PM Narendra Modi taking oath as Prime Minister for the third straight term.

STRANGE ALLIANCES: TRUMP AND MUSK

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk made a dramatic entrance by jumping onto the stage to join former US President and current Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The event held significant historical weight as it took place at the site of a previous assassination attempt on Trump. Musk’s appearance added a surprising twist to an already charged political gathering, drawing attention from both supporters and critics.

FLOODS AND SURVIVAL IN BOSNIA

Serif Hakalovic walks past the ruins of a house destroyed by devastating floods and landslides in the village of Buturovic Polje, located in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The area was severely affected by the natural disaster, leaving homes and infrastructure in ruins and displacing numerous residents.

MOMENTS OF NORMALCY AMID CONFLICT

Amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, Israeli soldiers took a moment to play football near their tanks and armoured personnel carriers (APCs). The scene unfolded on 2 June 2024, close to the Israel-Gaza border—a region that has seen relentless fighting. The image of soldiers kicking a ball around next to tanks and APCs captured the surreal contrast of war—where moments of levity coexist with the looming threat of violence.

PENSION PROTESTS IN ARGENTINA

Outside the National Congress in Buenos Aires, a woman was seen reacting emotionally next to members of the Argentine Naval Prefecture during a protest. Demonstrators had gathered to express their opposition to President Javier Milei’s decision to veto a proposed pension reform. The reform, which had aimed to improve retirement benefits for vulnerable groups, had been widely anticipated and supported by sections of the public. The veto drew criticism, reflecting growing concerns over the economic policies of Milei’s administration.

The protest, which started on 11 September 2024, highlighted the tensions surrounding social welfare and economic reforms in Argentina, where such policies significantly impact large portions of the population.

IRANIAN REVERENCE

The 45th anniversary of the United States’ expulsion from Iran marks a significant moment in the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. This occasion serves as a platform for Iran to reaffirm its ideological stance and alliances, including its strong ties with Lebanon’s Hezbollah, led by Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, a prominent figure in the region’s geopolitical dynamics.

RAINS AND SURVIVAL IN YEMEN

In Sanaa, Yemen, protesters braved torrential rain to stand in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, merging determination with activism. This demonstration was part of a broader wave of protests across the Middle East and beyond, sparked by escalating violence in Gaza. Despite Yemen’s own challenges, including a prolonged civil war and a dire humanitarian crisis, people in the capital have repeatedly shown unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.

CHILDHOOD AMID HUNGER IN AFGHANISTAN

Afghanistan has faced years of conflict, economic hardship, and political instability, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis. The Taliban’s return to power in 2021 led to the withdrawal of international aid and sanctions, pushing the economy into further decline. Today, over two-thirds of the population relies on aid, with children among the hardest hit. Many must work or scavenge to help their families, while malnutrition and limited access to education, especially for girls, remain critical issues. Organisations like the World Food Programme provide essential assistance, but challenges such as funding shortages and security concerns limit their efforts. The image of children near a scrap shop by a food distribution centre reflects the difficult realities faced by many in Afghanistan.

CELEBRATIONS IN BANGLADESH

Sheikh Hasina’s resignation marked a turning point in Bangladeshi politics, ending her long tenure as prime minister. While credited with economic growth, her leadership faced criticism for alleged authoritarianism and curbing opposition. Rising public frustration over inflation, unemployment, and claims of electoral manipulation led to widespread protests demanding her resignation. The decision reflected growing pressure for political change, with celebrations in Dhaka symbolising public hope for a more democratic future.

FIRES OF THE PANTANAL

The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland, known for its rich biodiversity and unique wildlife, such as jaguars and capybaras. It spans Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay and plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

However, the region faces growing threats. Fires often started to clear land for agriculture and cattle grazing, have become more frequent and severe, especially during droughts made worse by climate change. These fires devastate wildlife and destroy the delicate wetland ecosystem.

FLYING HIGH IN SLOVENIA

At the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup in Planica, Slovenia, Austria’s Daniel Tschofenig demonstrated his skill during the men’s individual event. Planica, a renowned venue for ski jumping, provided the perfect backdrop as Tschofenig soared through the air, reflecting the dedication and precision the sport demands.

STRIKES IN KARACHI

In Pakistan, shutter-down strikes are a common way for people to protest against government policies. In this case, Aslam Bhai, 52, sits outside closed shops in Karachi during a strike against rising taxes and soaring power bills. These strikes, often organised by traders’ associations or civil groups, reflect the growing frustration of small business owners and ordinary citizens over the financial strain caused by inflation and increasing utility costs in the country.

PAPAL VISIT TO LUXEMBOURG

Pope Francis’s one-day visit to Luxembourg, which included a meeting with the country’s royal family, was both a spiritual and diplomatic gesture. Luxembourg, a small but influential nation in Europe, has deep Catholic roots and is a founding member of the European Union. The visit highlighted shared values like unity, social responsibility, and care for the vulnerable—issues the Pope often emphasises.

GRIEVING MIGRATION IN GUATEMALA

The tragic story of Widman Alexander Tax Chinic and his partner, Rossanna Azucena Coche Navichoc, served as a poignant reminder of the perilous journey many undertake in pursuit of a better life. Widman, a 26-year-old Guatemalan native, dreamed of reaching the United States to escape the economic struggles and limited opportunities in his hometown of Yepocapa. Together with Rossanna, 25, he embarked on a dangerous trek northward, driven by hopes of providing a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones.

HONOURING THE DEAD IN CROATIA

Mirogoj Cemetery in Zagreb, Croatia, is a well-known landmark and a peaceful resting place for people from all walks of life, reflecting the country’s multicultural history. On All Saints’ Day, observed every year on 1st November, Croatians visit cemeteries to remember their loved ones who have passed away.

The day is marked by quiet reflection as families light candles and leave flowers at gravesides, filling places like Mirogoj with a serene, solemn atmosphere.

ASHURA IN BAHRAIN

Ashura is one of the holiest days for Shia Muslims, observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram. It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. For Shia Muslims, it is a day of mourning and reflection on his sacrifice, which symbolises the struggle against injustice and oppression.

WOMEN’S DAY IN COSTA RICA

The march in San José, Costa Rica, on International Women’s Day highlighted the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s rights. Despite progress in areas like education and legal protection, issues such as gender-based violence, wage disparities, and limited political representation persist, sparking widespread concern. Participants in the march used the occasion to demand systemic changes and draw attention to these challenges, underscoring the urgent need for action to achieve true equality.

HEALTH BATTLES IN CONGO

Furaha Elisabeth applies medication to her child’s Mpox rash in Munigi, DRC, highlighting ongoing health challenges in vulnerable communities. Endemic to regions like the DRC, Mpox spreads through close contact and causes symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. While generally less severe than smallpox, its impact in areas with limited healthcare access underscores the need for increased awareness and medical support.