Fri Jan 03 10:10:58 UTC 2025: ## Five Key Elections to Watch in 2025: A Global Outlook

**International Desk** – While 2024 saw a record number of elections globally, 2025 still holds several crucial votes with recurring themes of inflation, the rise of populism, and the ramifications of the ongoing wars in Europe and the Middle East. Experts from The Conversation highlight five key elections:

**Belarus (January 26): Lukashenko’s Expected Victory Amidst Repression**

Long-time authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko is poised to secure a seventh term in a widely criticized election. With no credible opposition participating and the suppression of dissent continuing, the vote is unlikely to be free or fair. The lack of polling stations abroad further restricts participation. This election solidifies Belarus’s role as a key ally of Russia, hosting nuclear weapons and potentially serving as a base for future military operations.

**Germany (February 23): Snap Election Amidst Economic Turmoil**

Following the collapse of its coalition government, Germany faces snap elections in February. Chancellor Olaf Scholz, facing low approval ratings and a struggling economy, is fighting for his political survival against a resurgent center-right CDU/CSU and a rising far-right AfD. The election will occur amidst a challenging global context, including the war in Ukraine, competition with China, and the potential threat of a US trade war. Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, is favored to become the next Chancellor.

**Philippines (May 12): Midterm Elections as Referendum on Marcos Jr.**

The Philippine midterm elections, typically a barometer of the president’s popularity, will see a strong showing by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s allies. The senatorial races are expected to significantly bolster his power amid ongoing tensions with Vice President Sara Duterte. A Marcos-dominated Senate would help secure his position and potentially impact the fate of Duterte, who faces impeachment proceedings.

**Canada (Before October 20): Trudeau’s Coalition Government Under Pressure**

A federal election in Canada is anticipated earlier than the October 2025 deadline. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s fragile coalition government is facing mounting pressure due to plummeting poll numbers, recent cabinet resignations, and challenges from US President-elect Donald Trump. The election presents a significant ideological clash between Trudeau’s left-leaning policies and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre’s populist platform focusing on economic growth and a shift toward fossil fuel reliance.

**Chile (November 16): Boric’s Successor Amidst Political Instability**

Chile’s presidential election, likely resulting in a December runoff, will see incumbent Gabriel Boric ineligible for reelection. The election comes after a period of social unrest, constitutional debates, and a recent upswing in crime rates. Polls suggest a likely victory for the right-wing opposition coalition led by Evelyn Matthei. However, the ruling coalition’s performance in recent local elections suggests the outcome is not certain.

These five elections offer a diverse snapshot of global political trends and challenges, highlighting the complex interplay between domestic politics and international relations. The outcomes will have significant consequences for the countries involved and the broader international landscape.

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