Since the 2020s, the world has once again fallen into a frenzy of war. The Taliban
seized power in Afghanistan in 2021, the Russia-Ukraine War began in 2022, the
Israel-Hamas War erupted in 2023, and the Israel-Hezbollah War followed in 2024. While
conflicts have always existed, it is unprecedented for major wars to break out every year.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 was particularly shocking, as it was an
outright invasion by one sovereign state against another. The war not only resulted in
numerous military casualties but also severely impacted the global economy, causing
inflation and economic downturns. In total, there are approximately 56 active conflicts
worldwide, marking the highest number since World War II. These conflicts have become
increasingly international, with 92 countries involved in some capacity.
Humanity has historically evolved and developed through warfare for thousands of
years. By competing with one another, societies advanced weaponry, governance, and
infrastructure, ultimately improving the quality of life, science, and logic. However, war has always been driven by the pursuit of power and greed. In the late 20th century, the rise of human rights movements and globalization, particularly through the Internet, contributed to a significant decline in warfare.
From the 1970s onward, official wars became less frequent, ushering in a period of relative peace. This trend continued after the Cold War ended in 1991. Even in the 21st century, aside from sporadic terrorist attacks, civil wars, and coups—primarily in the Middle East and Africa —the world remained largely at peace. However, in 2019, the trade war between the United States and China intensified, and the COVID-19 pandemic devastated global economies, worsening living conditions. Amidst this chaos, the world once again found itself descending into conflict.
Despite significant efforts toward global peace, wars and conflicts persist worldwide. Ongoing conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, highlight the dangers of territorial disputes and geopolitical rivalries. Similarly, violent conflicts in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia often stem from ethnic tensions, religious divides, and political instability. Internal conflicts reflect the struggles of fragile states grappling with authoritarian regimes and resource scarcity.
Looking ahead, several concerning trends may shape the future of global conflict. Geopolitical tensions between major powers like the United States, China, and Russia could escalate into proxy wars or even direct confrontations. The growing fight for resources, exacerbated by climate change, has the potential to spark new conflicts over water, food, and energy supplies. Additionally, technological advancements have introduced new forms of warfare, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic coercion, all of which can destabilize nations without traditional military interventions. In many countries, rising authoritarianism and political polarization increase the risk of internal instability, while persistent ethnic and sectarian tensions threaten to escalate into widespread violence.
While the risks of future wars are undeniable, there is still hope for a more peaceful world. International organizations, diplomacy, and peacekeeping efforts remain crucial in resolving disputes and preventing violence. Increased awareness of interconnected global challenges, such as climate change and global health crises, may encourage greater international collaboration. The world’s growing interdependence through trade, technology, and communication also has the potential to foster unity and understanding. Despite the ever-present potential for conflict, humanity’s ability to address shared challenges and prioritize peace may ultimately pave the way for a more stable and harmonious future.
By. Jungwoo Choe