Making the Headlines: 10 Things to Look out for in 2023

There was so much news in 2022 it was hard to keep up, so get ahead by looking at these ten things set to make headlines in 2023. 

1. Prince Harry’s Book (10^th January)

Millions across the globe tuned into their six-part Netflix series, but some of Harry and Meghan’s biggest bombshells have been held back for his autobiography, provocatively titled ‘Spare’. 

The publishers have promised “raw, unflinching honesty” as the prince gives his account of leaving the royal family and starting a new life in the US, something which is bound to cause fresh fireworks. Harry has also written about his upbringing and the death of his mother, Princess Diana. 

2. The First Year Anniversary of the Invasion of Ukraine (24^th February)

Following a freezing winter where much fighting has been put on hold, expect all-out war to return to Ukraine on the first anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion. Both Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky will want to mark the occasion militarily and with must-see public statements, the anniversary could be a key turning point in the war. 

3. The Budget (15^th March)

After the chaos of Liz Truss’ ‘mini-budget’ in the autumn, all eyes will be on Chancellor Jeremy Hunt as he delivers his spring budget. Expect to see a focus on spending cuts and tax rises as the government tries to reassure financial markets and balance its budget. 

One area to look out for is support for energy bills, which are set to rise again in April to historic highs. The Times is reporting energy support for businesses is set to halve, will the government do the same for consumers? 

4. The Coronation of King Charles III (6^th May)

TVs across the world will be tuned to the UK in May, as the first coronation in 70 years takes place. Despite the cost of living crisis, it’s expected there will be a full-scale ceremony rather than a slimmed down affair. 

The coronation takes place on a Saturday, but it’s worth pointing out Monday 8^th May is a bank holiday so expect celebrations to continue throughout the weekend. 

5. Eurovision in Liverpool (13^th May)

May is a busy month for Britain as the global spotlight stays on the nation as it hosts the biggest entertainment show in Europe for the first time in 25 years. The iconic city of Liverpool is hosting the competition on behalf of 2022’s winners Ukraine. 

6. The G7 Summit in Hiroshima Begins (19^th May)

A poignant moment for the international community as the most significant annual gathering of world leaders takes place in Hiroshima, the Japanese city which suffered an American nuclear attack in World War Two. 

There will be lots for leaders to discuss at the summit including the Russia-Ukraine war, China-Taiwan tensions, climate change, and ongoing protests in Iran.

7.  Elton John Closes Glastonbury (25^th June)

The iconic singer has chosen this as his final ever UK tour date, bringing to a close a six-decade long touring career with a performance of his greatest hits at Britain’s biggest festival. Also rumoured to be headlining Glastonbury are Harry Styles, Taylor Swift, and Guns N’ Roses. 

8. The FIFA Women’s World Cup Begins (20^th July)

This is undoubtedly the sporting event of the summer. Football fans should be prepared for some early starts as Australia and New Zealand host the tournament. Following their success at the Euros last summer, all eyes will be on the Lionesses to see if they can repeat their win on a global scale. 

9. The Rugby World Cup Begins (8^th September)

Just in case one World Cup isn’t enough, France will host the Rugby Union equivalent next autumn. England have a new head coach in Steve Borthwick, will he be able to drive the squad to victory where Eddie Jones couldn’t? 

They say the best things come in threes, so also look out for the Cricket World Cup taking place in India next October and November. England are the defending champions. 

10. COP 28 Begins in Dubai (30^th November)

The annual climate change conference brings together world leaders to discuss the most pressing issue of our time. However, the conference has come under growing criticism for ‘greenwashing’ and failing to achieve anything.