Political leaders will shape the future of the world in the next decade as numerous challenges and changes arise. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, French President Emmanuel Macron, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, China’s President Xi Jinping, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and US President Donald Trump are 10 political leaders to watch in the next decade. Their policies, leadership styles, and challenges will have a significant impact on their respective countries and the world. It remains to be seen who will rise to the occasion and who will falter under the weight of the challenges ahead.
10 Political Leaders to Watch in the Next Decade
As we head into the next decade, the world is facing numerous challenges and changes. Political leaders around the world will play a significant role in shaping the course of history over the next decade. Here are 10 political leaders to watch in the next decade:
1. Jacinda Ardern
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has gained international recognition for her empathetic leadership in the aftermath of the Christchurch mosque shootings. She has set ambitious climate change goals for the country and is committed to tackling child poverty. Ardern’s leadership style has made her a role model for young people around the world.
2. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a rising star in the Democratic Party. She has championed progressive policies such as the Green New Deal and Medicare-for-all. AOC’s social media-savvy and passionate speeches have made her a household name among young progressives in the United States.
3. Emmanuel Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron has positioned himself as a champion of progressive values in Europe. He has taken a strong stance against nationalism and is committed to strengthening the European Union. Macron’s leadership will be critical as Europe faces ongoing challenges such as Brexit and the rise of far-right parties.
4. Narendra Modi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has solidified his position as one of India’s most popular leaders. He has implemented economic reforms and brought the country closer to becoming a major global power. Modi’s leadership will be critical as tensions with neighboring Pakistan continue to escalate.
5. Angela Merkel
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has been a steady hand in Europe for over a decade. She has led Germany through multiple crises such as the Greek debt crisis and the refugee crisis. With Merkel set to retire in 2021, her successor will have big shoes to fill.
6. Xi Jinping
China’s President Xi Jinping has consolidated power over the past decade and is now poised to lead China through a new era of global competition. He has ambitious plans for China’s economy, technology, and military. However, his human rights record and authoritarian policies have drawn criticism from the international community.
7. Justin Trudeau
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rose to power on a message of hope and change. He has championed progressive policies such as marijuana legalization and gender equality. However, recent scandals have hurt Trudeau’s popularity and his leadership will be tested in the upcoming Canadian federal election.
8. Ursula von der Leyen
Ursula von der Leyen made history when she became the first woman to serve as the President of the European Commission. She has ambitious plans to tackle climate change, promote digital innovation, and strengthen the EU’s role in the world. However, she faces numerous challenges such as Brexit and the rise of far-right parties in Europe.
9. Mohammed bin Salman
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has made headlines for his ambitious plans to modernize Saudi Arabia’s economy and society. However, human rights abuses and his role in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi have drawn international criticism. Bin Salman’s leadership will be critical as Saudi Arabia navigates ongoing tensions with Iran and the global energy transition.
10. Donald Trump
Love him or hate him, US President Donald Trump has had a significant impact on global politics over the past few years. He has pursued policies such as tax reform and deregulation that have helped boost the US economy. However, his confrontational approach to foreign policy has created new sources of tension around the world. Trump’s leadership will continue to be closely watched as he seeks re-election in 2020.
Conclusion
These 10 political leaders represent a mix of styles, ideologies, and challenges. Whether they are leading major global powers or rising stars in their respective countries, they will have a significant impact on the course of history in the next decade. It remains to be seen who will rise to the occasion and who will falter under the weight of the challenges ahead.