Philenews

2026: The Year Geopolitics Becomes Everyday Life

Published December 31, 2025, 07:16
2026: The Year Geopolitics Becomes Everyday Life

2026 is expected to mark a shift in the global order, where geopolitics will dominate the economy, security, and strategic decisions. The globalization of rules will give way to competition, with increased state control and the use of geoeconomics as a tool of foreign policy. Five key trends will define the year: the acceleration of multipolarity, the geopolitics of resource scarcity, technology as a field of confrontation, the weakening of multilateral institutions, and the return of hard security. The global economy will become slower and more unstable, with political barriers to trade and inflationary pressures. High public debt will limit state intervention during times of crisis, creating a more expensive and nervous world. Artificial intelligence will gain particular importance, not only as a productivity technology but also as a force multiplier, leading to technological fragmentation. For Europe, and especially for Cyprus and Greece, these developments present both challenges and opportunities. Geopolitical instability increases the importance of regional security and shipping. The need to adapt to a more uncertain environment requires strategic thinking and cooperation. In summary, 2026 is shaping up to be a year full of challenges and changes, where geopolitics will shape everyday life and require adaptability and risk management from states and businesses.