Disinformation and misinformation campaigns driven by China are influencing Taiwan's presidential election and could impact regional stability.
The upcoming European Parliament elections are expected to show a shift towards populism on the right and may prioritize issues such as immigration concerns and the costs of the net-zero transition.
Deep dives
Taiwan Presidential Election
On January 13, Taiwan will hold its presidential election. The contest is primarily between the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the pro-China Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwanese People's Party. The outcome is significant due to Taiwan's status and the geopolitical tensions in the region. Disinformation and misinformation campaigns, potentially driven by China, are influencing the election, which could impact the stability of the area.
European Parliament Elections
In June, all 27 member states of the European Union will hold elections for the European Parliament. These elections will serve as a mid-term referendum on national governments' performance. The outcome is expected to show a shift towards populism on the right, with center parties and Greens losing ground. Immigration concerns and reevaluating the costs of the net-zero transition may become prominent issues in European politics.
American Presidential Election
The upcoming American presidential election has significant global implications. While some believe that Donald Trump's unsuitability for office makes his re-election unlikely, there is a real possibility he may win due to the Republican Party's likely nomination and the chance presented by a Democratic president. If Trump were to win, it would have serious consequences for the Western alliance and affect global relationships.
It's the start of a huge political year, and Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer are planning big speeches to try and frame the coming general election.
Should the Conservatives 'let Sunak be Sunak', does Dominic Cummings have the answers, and is Labour's plan to borrow £28bn a gift to the Tories?
Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt to discuss the choices facing the leaders, and to look at some of the other big elections taking place around the world in 2024.
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