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A look ahead to 2026

December 29, 2025

Following a year that brought massive disruptions to global politics and commerce, as well as conflicts worldwide and threats to the environment, what will 2026 hold?

Fireworks over Brandenburg Gate during New Year in Berlin, Germany, January 1, 2026
Image: Axel Schmidt/REUTERS

DW presents a selection of projections for the year 2026 from across its regions and departments.
Skip next section Reports & Analysis

Reports & Analysis

US-led talks on Russia's war in Ukraine continue into 2026

With no sign of the fighting slowing down, is peace anywhere near? DW takes a closer look at the sticking points.
ConflictsDecember 31, 202505:27 min

Six ways the 2026 World Cup will be different

The US, Canada and Mexico will host the 2026 World Cup. DW fills you in on why this tournament will be different.
SoccerDecember 31, 2025

What challenges does the world economy face in 2026?

From trade tensions to fears of an AI bubble, the global economy will face an array of risks in the new year.
BusinessDecember 30, 2025

The world rang in 2026 with fireworks and fanfare

From the Pacific to the Middle East to the Americas, lavish fireworks displays welcomed 2026.
SocietyJanuary 1, 202602:05 min

Bulgaria becomes eurozone's 21st member

The switch comes at a difficult time, amid deep political divisions and fears over rising prices.
PoliticsJanuary 1, 202602:22 min

Why plastic bans aren't working and what needs to change

Four years after Europe banned single use plastics, why are things like plastic bags and straws still around?
Nature and EnvironmentJanuary 2, 2026

What to look forward to in the world of sports in 2026

2026 looks like a banner year for sports fans, with the highlight for most being the men's World Cup in June and July.
SportsDecember 30, 202513 images

Conscription, pensions and AfD on Germany's 2026 agenda

Pensions, migration, conscription and the far-right AfD will dominate domestic politics in Germany this year.
PoliticsJanuary 1, 2026

A German tip for your New Year's resolutions

Starting off the year with plans to become a better person is a widespread Western tradition. What about the Germans?
CultureDecember 31, 2025

What to know about 2026 European Capitals of Culture

Oulu, Finland, and Trencin, Slovakia, will become Europe's cultural flagships for the next 12 months.
CultureJanuary 1, 2026

New Year's Eve: How to make resolutions for 2026

Every January, we plan great feats for the year — and often fail. Here's how to make your resolutions work out.
ScienceDecember 29, 2025

Germany: Merz says 2026 can be a 'year of new beginnings'

The chancellor discussed a host of challenges in his New Year's speech: Ukraine, the economy, migration and more.
PoliticsDecember 31, 2025
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Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Iran war: US fighter jets downed by friendly fire in Kuwait

The US military says Kuwait's air defenses mistakenly shot down the F-15 jets. Follow our live updates.
ConflictsMarch 2, 2026

Iran war: Germany's chancellor strikes a cautious tone

PoliticsMarch 2, 2026

Will Gulf states enter the Iran war?

ConflictsMarch 1, 2026

Will Iran war send oil prices above $100 a barrel?

BusinessMarch 2, 2026
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