2025 in Review

As the year draws to a close, 2025 stands out as a period of profound political shifts and persistent global conflicts, shaping the international agenda and testing the resilience of nations.

From the polling booths of Australia to the inauguration stage in Washington, from the cities of Ukraine to the streets of Gaza, the world has witnessed defining moments that will influence the years ahead.

Join Nexus APAC as we reflect on some of the events that made headlines in 2025.

Australia’s Federal Election: A Landslide for Labor

Australians went to the polls in 2025 in what many viewed as a referendum on the nation’s future amid economic uncertainty and global instability. The contest between major parties was fierce, but the result was emphatic: the Labor Party, led by Prime Minister the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, secured a landslide victory, winning a commanding majority in the House of Representatives.

Labor’s sweeping success reflected strong voter support for its platform of addressing the cost of living, improving housing affordability, and climate action. The Coalition was unable to counter the momentum behind Labor’s progressive agenda. Minor parties and independents also made notable gains, signalling a growing appetite for diversity in representation and policy debate.

Since taking office, the Government has moved quickly to outline its priorities. Accelerated investment in renewable energy has been placed at the forefront, alongside a renewed commitment to healthcare funding and measures to improve housing affordability. While the public response has been largely favourable, questions remain about the Government’s ability to deliver on ambitious promises amid global economic headwinds. The election has underscored Australia’s evolving political landscape and highlighted a demand for responsive, future-focused governance.

Donald Trump’s Inauguration: A New Chapter for US Politics

On 20 January 2025, Donald Trump was sworn in as President of the United States for a second term, marking one of the most consequential political comebacks in modern history. His inauguration followed a deeply polarised 2024 election and set the tone for a year of significant policy shifts and renewed debate over America’s role on the global stage.

Trump’s campaign emphasised themes of economic strength, border security and “restoring American greatness”, signalling a sharp pivot from the previous administration’s priorities. In the months since, executive actions have reshaped domestic and foreign policy. Climate and energy regulations have been rolled back, immigration controls tightened and trade and defence agreements reasserted with a focus on US sovereignty.

Internationally, Trump’s return has prompted mixed reactions from global leaders, with some expressing concern about potential unilateral approaches and the implications for multilateral cooperation. His election has underscored the enduring influence of US leadership and ushered in a period of adjustment in international relations.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: A War Without Resolution

The Ukraine-Russia conflict remains one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian and security challenges as 2025 draws to an end. Fighting has persisted along contested frontlines, with neither side achieving decisive gains. This year has seen intensified drone warfare, shifting control of strategic cities and attacks on critical infrastructure, deepening civilian suffering.

Western nations have continued military and economic support for Ukraine, while diplomatic efforts to broker peace have yielded limited progress to date. The conflict’s ripple effects have been global, fuelling energy market volatility, refugee flows and renewed debate over sanctions and international law.

Millions of Ukrainians remain displaced, with access to basic services hampered by ongoing hostilities. Aid agencies face mounting challenges in delivering relief, and the mental health toll on affected communities continues to rise. Despite current attempts at a negotiated end to the conflict, the prospect of a durable resolution appears distant as the year draws to a close.

Israel-Gaza Conflict: A Fragile Ceasefire

The Israel-Gaza conflict was a major flashpoint in 2025, marked by intense airstrikes, rocket attacks and ground operations that inflicted heavy casualties and widespread destruction. Ceasefires brokered by regional and international actors repeatedly collapsed until 9 October, when Israel and Hamas agreed to a truce negotiated by the United States, Qatar, Turkey and Egypt. The situation remains fragile, with the ceasefire holding but tensions unresolved.

Humanitarian conditions in Gaza worsened throughout the year, marked by shortages of food, medicine and fuel, alongside widespread infrastructure damage. These factors have led to a surge in displacement, prompting urgent international appeals for aid and renewed calls for a two-state solution.

The first phase of the ceasefire involved cessation of hostilities, boosting humanitarian aid, and an exchange of hostages and prisoners. Looking ahead, the implementation of the critical second phase, which will involve the establishment of a transitional government in Gaza, Hamas’ disarmament, and full Israeli withdrawal, will prove challenging.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As 2025 draws to a close, the events of this year underscore the volatility and interconnectedness of global politics. Australia’s election has highlighted the power of democratic engagement and the demand for responsive leadership, while Trump’s election has seen a realignment of US policy. Meanwhile, conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza have reminded the world of the enduring challenges of war, displacement and fragile peace.

The coming year will test the resolve of governments and communities alike to navigate uncertainty, strengthen institutions and advance prospects for stability and prosperity. The need for effective diplomacy and sustained humanitarian commitment has never been greater.