19992006

1999–2006 refers to the span from the end of 1999 through 2006, encompassing the final years of the 1990s and the early years of the 2000s. The period was characterized by rapid technological change, evolving geopolitical dynamics, and expanding globalization.

Economic conditions included the burst of the dot-com bubble around 2000–2002 and a gradual global recovery. Major security and foreign-policy events included the September 11, 2001 attacks, the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, and the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The European Union enlarged in 2004, admitting ten new member states.

Technology and culture saw broadband adoption, mobile communications, and digital media becoming mainstream. In 2004, Facebook was launched, followed by YouTube in 2005, signaling the rise of user-generated online platforms. Consumer devices such as the iPod popularized portable digital media and changed media consumption.

The Kyoto Protocol entered into force in 2005 after sufficient ratifications, reinforcing international climate commitments. The period also witnessed growing attention to climate change, energy policy, and environmental science influencing both policy and public discourse.

Global sporting and media events included the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, and the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami prompted wide-ranging humanitarian and media responses and highlighted the increasing globalization of disaster relief.