post1990

Post-1990 is a broad historical descriptor for the period after the year 1990. It denotes changes in politics, economy, technology, and culture that followed the end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The term is used across disciplines to mark a transition to the 21st century.

In international relations, the era saw a move from bipolar to a more multipolar order. The expansion of the European Union and the integration of former communist states into global institutions shaped early post‑Cold War diplomacy; later security challenges emerged, including terrorism and cyber threats.

Economically, globalization accelerated through trade liberalization, outsourcing, and rapid growth in new markets. The period experienced major events such as the Asian financial crisis (1997) and the global financial crisis (2008). The information and later knowledge economy became central to economic development.

Technological and cultural change was driven by the spread of the internet, mobile communications, and later social media. Digital platforms transformed work, education, media, and consumer behavior, while issues of privacy, data security, and online governance gained prominence.

Social structures and the environment also evolved. Aging populations in developed countries, increased urbanization, and migration reshaped societies, while awareness of climate change intensified and international efforts moved toward sustainable development.