2024: The year in images

The past year has been fraught with uncertainty and disruption. AI is rapidly transforming our world, pushing creative boundaries while raising important questions about responsible development and deployment. Amid this technological shift, we’re also grappling with a challenging talent landscape, geopolitical tensions, and the ongoing evolution of the energy transition. Strong leadership will be crucial in navigating these complex challenges and harnessing the opportunities that lie ahead.

To understand where we’re going, we must reflect on where we’ve been. Our designers have curated a collection of images capturing some of the defining themes of 2024—a visual tapestry of disruption and uncertainty interwoven with threads of hope and resilience. These images serve as a powerful reminder of the progress we’ve made and the challenges we still face.

Navigating uncertain terrain calls for collaborative effort, adaptability, and strategic thinking. While the future may rely heavily on emerging technologies, the human element remains indispensable. AI can be a powerful tool, but it cannot replace human leadership and ingenuity. Our success will depend on how effectively we partner with AI and with each other.

Join us for a look back at McKinsey Global Publishing’s visual take on 2024.