2025 has been an immensely tumultuous year marked by chaos, tragedy, and upheaval worldwide. It started with devastating New Year’s Day attacks that plunged nations into grief and was followed by airplane crashes that highlighted the fragile nature of travel in a volatile global environment. In January, wildfires ravaged Los Angeles, causing widespread destruction and foreshadowing a year dominated by continuous crises.
The tremors continued both literally and metaphorically. Massive earthquakes devastated communities, while political assassinations on the global stage caused increased divisions and unrest. Economies plummeted as tariffs and trade wars unsettled markets, leaving households in greater uncertainty.
Meanwhile, the Middle East became increasingly unstable, with mounting tensions risking wider regional conflict. In Asia, uprisings in Nepal demonstrated the strength of popular resistance against weak governments. At the same time, in Europe and North America, democracy encountered new challenges due to polarization and protests.
All of this happened amid a warming planet, with climate shocks and persistent inflation, making 2025 feel like one continuous aftershock.
This December, WNews will deliver the ultimate countdown of the 31 most influential stories that defined this remarkable year. Visit w.news and join us as we explore why 2025 will be remembered as The Year That Shook Us.
