WORLD AGENDA
MAY 2026

May 1, U.S.: President Trump faces a deadline under the War Powers Resolution to end U.S. involvement in an unauthorised conflict within 60 days unless Congress approves its continuation. Presidents have sometimes bypassed the law, but doing so carries political risks

May 15, U.S.: The term of outgoing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell (above left) ends as the Senate considers President Trump’s nominee, Kevin Warsh (right). Democrats warn his appointment could weaken the Fed’s independence

May 31, Colombia: Voters cast their ballots for the first round of presidential elections to pick a successor to President Gustavo Petro amid a spate of violence across the country

May 1, Japan: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (left) plans to release national oil reserves equivalent to around 20 days’ worth of supply, as concern grows over energy shortages caused by the conflict engulfing its major suppliers in the Middle East

May 20, U.S.: Meta plans to cut 10% of its workforce – roughly 8,000 staff – as the tech giant spends
 more than ever on artificial intelligence (AI) projects

May 12-23, France: The 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival has barred films using generative AI from competing for the Palme d’Or, highlighting deep divisions in the industry. Festival president Iris Knobloch (left) has said: AI imitates very well, but it will never feel deep emotions

May 16, Austria: The Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is scheduled to take place in Vienna

May 26, U.S.: Jazz fans celebrate the centenary of the birth of musician Miles Davis (right)

Sources: NewsAhead, Emma Luck
Pictures: Getty Images
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