The World Ahead 2024: five stories to watch out for

Summary

The video highlights major global events expected in 2024, focusing on key elections in the U.S. and Taiwan, which could influence geopolitical tensions with China. It also explores technological innovations like eVTOL air transport debuting at the Paris Olympics, and AI's role in decision-making, raising concerns over bias and regulation. Additionally, the year will see more focus on decarbonizing industry, the expansion of the BRICS alliance, and America's shifting global influence as other nations rise. The video concludes with discussions on how multipolar power structures will shape the future world order.

Takeaways

• 🗳️ 2024 will be the biggest election year in history, with over half of the world's population voting.
• 🌏 Taiwan's January 2024 election is crucial due to the threat of a Chinese invasion, with tensions high between Taiwan, China, and the US.
• 🇺🇸 The US election could influence global security, with a second Trump presidency potentially increasing unpredictability.
• 🛩️ Paris will debut eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft) during the 2024 Olympics, marking the start of commercial flights.
• 🔋 eVTOL technology represents a shift toward sustainable urban transport, with companies like Volocopter leading the charge.
• 🏭 In 2024, industrial emissions will be a key focus in combating climate change, as industry contributes 29% of global greenhouse gases.
• 🌍 The BRICS bloc will expand to include five new nations, challenging the Western-led world order and US economic dominance.
• 💻 AI regulation will be a hot topic in 2024, with concerns about bias, discrimination, and frontier models sparking debates.
• 🌡️ New technologies to decarbonize heavy industry, such as Coolbrook’s rotodynamic heater, will begin implementation in 2024.
• 💵 The expansion of the BRICS bloc reflects growing dissatisfaction with the US-led financial system, leading to alternatives like the BRICS’ currency swap lines.

Q & A

What is significant about the elections happening in 2024?

2024 will be the biggest election year in history, with more than half of the world's population living in countries holding national elections. Two particularly significant elections are in the United States and Taiwan, which could have major global repercussions.

Why is the Taiwanese election in January 2024 important?

The Taiwanese election is crucial because the island's future is uncertain due to China's potential plans for invasion by 2027. The election's outcome could either deter or hasten a conflict, potentially leading to war involving the United States.

How does the United States' election impact Taiwan's situation?

The US election will impact Taiwan because the US has promised military support in case of a Chinese invasion. A change in leadership, such as a second Trump presidency, could lead to unpredictability and increased risk for Taiwan and the global order.

What is eVTOL technology, and why is it relevant in 2024?

eVTOL stands for electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles, a new technology for sustainable, battery-powered urban air mobility. In 2024, the Paris Olympics will mark the start of commercial eVTOL flights, signaling a new era in public and private air transport.

What challenges do eVTOLs face in becoming mainstream?

eVTOLs face challenges such as regulatory approval, public acceptance, and safety concerns. Currently, regulators require piloted versions rather than fully autonomous eVTOLs, and there is a need for technology and public trust to advance.

What are the concerns regarding AI regulation in 2024?

There are debates on whether to impose strict regulations on AI now or risk future consequences. Concerns focus on immediate risks like bias and discrimination rather than theoretical, future dangers like 'killer robots.'

How are governments currently using AI, and what are the potential issues?

Governments use AI for decision-making, such as welfare fraud investigations, which can lead to discriminatory practices. Examples include the AI-related welfare scandals in the Netherlands and Australia's 'Robodebt' scandal.

Why is the industrial sector's decarbonization becoming a focus in 2024?

Industries are responsible for 29% of greenhouse gas emissions, yet have been overlooked compared to more visible polluters. In 2024, attention will turn to developing technologies like renewable energy-powered heating systems to reduce emissions from high-temperature industrial processes.

What is the significance of the BRICS expansion in 2024?

In 2024, BRICS will expand by adding five new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. This expansion challenges the American-led world order by creating an alternative bloc of non-Western nations with substantial economic and geopolitical influence.

How is America’s global influence expected to change in 2024?

America's global influence is expected to decline as the world becomes more multipolar. The rise of middle powers and blocs like the expanded BRICS indicates a shift away from American dominance in both economic and geopolitical arenas.