2021 in numbers

First, the year-end review tackles the topic that has been dominating the media for nearly two years: the COVID-19 pandemic. The study covers various topics, such as case numbers, the different variants, and where the global vaccination campaign stands. Afterward, this report examines the economic downturn caused by the pandemic and the obstacles the economic recovery faces. Among others, we provide data on the disruptions in the supply chains, including the blockage of the Suez Canal, the global labor shortage, and the energy crises.

Political turbulence was seen already at the beginning of 2021 as the U.S. Capitol was attacked on January 6th. However, tensions were detected globally - EU member states disagreed on the rule of law, the U.S. struggled to evacuate Kabul, and potential conflict was perceived between the U.S. and China over Taiwan, to name a few.

On the other hand, 2021 also brought back a certain level of normality. Vaccinations made it possible to host large-scale social events, such as the European Football Championship and the Summer Olympics. Nonetheless, a lot of discussions took place about how "normality" can be preserved long-term, meaning how global warming can be slowed down. Once again, a new record was broken as July was the hottest month ever recorded.

Download our free report to look back on all the major events shaping 2021!

Want to look further back? Click on the following links to find older editions:

• 2020 in numbers
• 2019 in numbers