A worldwide credit crunch in 2009 almost paralyzed global economy and led to fall of a number of major financial institutions
Observers express concern that parliamentary elections in 2010 could be more costly and convoluted than presidential election
Landmark 'Lisbon Treaty' aims to increase EU clout on world stage, streamline decision-making
As US, NATO allies battle Taliban, Pakistani faces government own challenges
Transmission of virus so rapid that by mid-June WHO declared first flu pandemic over 40 years
One year after his inauguration, enthusiasm abroad for US president Barack Obama seems to be fading
Economy, war in Afghanistan and November's congressional elections may determine whether president is able to advance his agenda
Experts stress that even if US president's strategy proves itself, it will take several more years of international military assistance
Kim Jong Il consolidates power and bolsters nuclear arsenal
Sudan's North-South peace deal enters critical, final year
Kremlin raised controversy in 2009 with claims of certitude about glorious Russian past, threats of action against critics
On diplomatic front, sensitive nuclear issue still unresolved
Amid repression and violence, there were signs of hope
War raging along border with US, other areas where powerful drug cartels are fighting over turf and billions in narcotics profits
With most of agreed-to reforms lingering in task forces and official commissions, Kenya already looking forward to next national poll
Already President Obama has ended travel limits on Cuban-Americans and called for new talks between the nations
Israelis, Palestinians Look For New Approaches to Peace
"It walked upright, just as we do."
Obama urges banks to do more to aid economic recovery
It is a key issue facing Obama administration
Many analysts are calling fighting in Afghanistan, 'President Obama's War'; most agree Pakistan's role is essential
Officials welcome news but say they are not satisfied
Since 2003, Washington has been trying to persuade North Korea to eliminate nuclear weapons capabilities
Confrontation between President Mugabe and PM Tsvangirai, stalemate and mediation have characterized politics over past months
In months following disputed December 2007 elections, over 1,200 Kenyans killed, some 600,000 displaced
Many analysts predict Somalia in coming year will continue to be engulfed in violent power struggles
Woods sex scandal, Mickelson cancer fight are among year's highlights
Michael Jackson's untimely death in June, Susan Boyle's success after appearing on 'Britain's Got Talent' are among year's highlights
White House jazz clinic, death of guitar virtuoso are among year's highlights
Even though overall album sales dipped, Taylor Swift, Jason Aldean and Kenny Chesney didnt contribute to the slowdown
Roots-based style gets own Grammy category in time for annual awards, Dylan, Cash, Lovett release new CDs
Federer becomes first man to win 15 major tournaments; Clijsters becomes first mom to win major tournament since 1980
International Olympic Committee also awarded the Summer Olympics to Rio de Janeiro
