We should expect a sharpening of great power rivalries and an increase in geopolitical tensions in 2022. If 2021 provides any indications, the world is likely to remain turbulent in the absence of credible mechanisms and effective cooperation to resolve global challenges. As geopolitical tensions grow, the arms race may deepen, particularly in outer space. The test of a hypersonic glide vehicle and anti-satellite (ASAT) test by Russia which created over a thousand pieces of debris is an indication. Hybrid wars, cyber attacks are likely to intensify in the near fixture.

About 5.8 million people reportedly died globally due to covid[1]. The unreported number is much higher. The world struggled to come out with a comprehensive, coordinated, effective response to the Covid pandemic crisis. The invention of vaccines was a major achievement. The vaccines have helped to mitigate the pandemic's impact but there is considerable uncertainty about their efficacy against potential new variants of the virus.