December 2013
From Halbeeg, the open encyclopedia · Af-Soomaali
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December 2013 was the twelfth and final month of 2013 according to the Gregorian calendar. It contained 31 days. During this period, significant global political events occurred, particularly the death of South African leader Nelson Mandela and the outbreak of armed conflict in South Sudan.
The month also encompassed the Christian festival season (Christmas, 25 December) and New Year preparations. International media covered the month with retrospectives on the year 2013.
Death of Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first democratically elected president, died on 5 December 2013 at the age of 95. Commemorative and funeral proceedings lasted several weeks and were attended by numerous world leaders. A major state funeral was held on 10 December at the FNB stadium in Johannesburg.
South Sudan
At the end of December 2013, armed conflict erupted in South Sudan between forces supporting President Salva Kiir and those supporting former Vice-President Riek Machar. The fighting spread rapidly to other regions and caused significant displacement. This conflict would continue for years.
Other events
During the month there were global developments related to peace efforts in central Africa, and discussions concerning Iran's nuclear programme following the interim agreement of November 2013. Financial markets focused on decisions by the U.S. Federal Reserve regarding the reduction of monetary stimulus.