News of the World, 2008
2008 news of the world from Afghanistan to
Zimbabwe
by Beth Rowen and Liz Olson
For the first half of 2008, much of the world was focused on
global warming, the urgent need for alternate sources of energy, and the global food crisis. These issues took a backseat in the fall, however, as the U.S. financial
crisis quickly spread, wreaking havoc in all corners of the world. Indeed,
Iceland went bankrupt, Pakistan was forced to borrow $7.6 billion from the
International Monetary Fund, and China announced a $586 billion stimulus
package. In addition to the economic woes, dozens of countries confronted
protracted civil wars, wars on new fronts, and ongoing internal turmoil.
Here's a look at some of the world's hotspots in 2008.
Conditions Deteriorate in Afghanistan
The U.S. plans to deploy additional troops to Afghanistan as violence there intensifies
India Rocked By a Wave of Terrorist Attacks
India experienced a series of deadly terrorist attacks in 2008
Iraq on the Path Toward Effective Leadership
In 2008, the Iraqi government made progress on both legislative and security fronts
Hopes Are Dashed for Peace Between Israelis and Palestinians Under the Bush Administration
Internal problems squander Bush's hope for a peace agreement under his administration
Kosovo Declares Independence
In February 2008, Kosovo became the world's 195th country
North Korea Continues Roller Coaster Diplomacy
North Korea maintained its unpredictable diplomatic course in 2008
Changing of the Guard in Pakistan
A new government took over after the resignation of President Pervez Musharraf
Putin Retains Power
Although Russian president Vladimir Putin stepped down in 2008, he refused to relinquish power
Russian-Georgian Conflict
The war between Russia and Georgia heightened tensions between Russia and the West
Turmoil Within South Africa's Ruling Party
A new political party challenges the leadership of the ANC
Elections Fail to Bring Change or Hope to Zimbabwe
The quality of life deteriorated further in Zimbabwe in 2008
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