Issues that will Shape the World in 2016

[Commentary] Fast Company’s list of some of the most crucial topics facing the world in 2016 includes:

Global Internet Access: As more of the world's population gains access to the Internet—increasingly through inexpensive mobile devices rather than desktop computers—tech companies are exploring how best to serve (and exploit) a new customer base in developing nations. Facebook and Google are each working on projects to increase global Internet access, and Chinese electronics firm Xiaomi is bringing its cheap mobile devices into India, which will soon pass the US to become the world's second-largest smartphone market.

Data Security: In 2015 we learned that no institution is safe from hackers… not the US government, not health insurance companies—not even children's toys. In 2016, cybersecurity will be an increasingly critical problem for companies, governments, and individuals.

Black Lives Matter and Online Social Justice: With the ubiquity of social media and smartphone cameras, injustices that could once be concealed and ignored now receive mainstream attention. Thanks to viral hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter, online social justice will continue to be a major force inspiring real-life protests and legal progress in 2016.

Regulating the Sharing Economy: Sharing economy startups like Uber and Airbnb are expanding to more and more cities worldwide, and local laws are racing to catch up. Uber could soon be forced to classify its US drivers as employees—a move that would upend its business model—and Airbnb is facing legal issues related to taxes and safety.