A Year In Evaluation

The past year was tumultuous, not just nationally but also internationally. Donald Trump officially became the 47th President of the United States, starting his second term in January 2025. Globally, there were political disruptions and trade wars due to his administration. When it comes to foreign policies, the Trump presidency made headlines last year and will continue to do so in 2026, as seen in Venezuela. Sadly, as it is said, “It is Trump’s world, we are just living in it.” Meanwhile, closer to home in Nepal, there were political ramifications that led to the September Gen Z protests. 

Looking back to the past year, there were certainly both good and bad times, as is the way of life on earth. Each year brings with it promises of accomplishments, joys and positivity only to be thwarted with broken dreams and hopes. But there are still glimmers of optimism. Nepal saw multiple protests as the September protest by Gen Z led the nation into upheaval. Its consequence was an interim government and new parties and solidarities with elections due this March. 

Nepal might have been left in shreds but slowly and steadily it is gaining ground as the nation looks ahead in 2026. On the other hand, young generations continue to shift abroad for work or study. According to statistics, over 1.52 million Nepalis left the nation for foreign shores in 2025. As the US tightened its visa programmes, Nepali youths had to look for alternative countries. The grass certainly seems greener on the other side, although the reality leaves the youthful aspirations reeling.

For the coming days, one can only hope for better things while preparing for the worst. The repercussions of the US tariffs have led to a trade war that will continue to unfold in the future. In Europe, the Russia-Ukraine war continues. In the Middle East, Gaza continues to deteriorate in humanitarian crisis. Likewise, in nations worldwide, there is civil unrest and political instability. Living costs keep rising while AI (Artificial Intelligence) takes most of the entry-level jobs, leaving recent graduates high and dry. 

2025 was the year of raging wildfires, flash floods and multiple natural disasters that took countless lives and displaced others. Green energy, unfortunately, took a backseat due to Trump's policies that sent ripples throughout the world. Social media become a source for fake news, disinformation and misinformation, especially with widespread AI slops. AI became a rabid consumer of water sources, leaving concerns over the future of energy and the consequences of the AI escalation as Silicon Valley bet heavily on it. While the rich got even richer, the poor kept on getting poorer. It felt like the world was in shambles.

Given all this, it is natural to feel doomed. But the allure of a new year is another chance at betterment, which applies not just on a personal level but also on a global level. Humanity has to prevail. Voices have to be heard and acknowledged. Rights have to be assured. Pledges have to be delivered. Moreover, there has to be peace-peace of mind, soul and the entire collective humanity. Let’s take a moment to bid adieu to the past year while praying, hoping and working for a peaceful, joyful and more fulfilling 2026.