The rise in global inflation has become a hot topic in various parts of the world, affecting many aspects of the economy. Inflation is a condition where the overall price of goods and services increases and people’s purchasing power decreases. This increase in inflation was triggered by various factors, such as surging energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and loose monetary policy during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the main causes of global inflation is the spike in energy prices. Since mid-2021, oil prices have experienced a drastic increase, triggered by increasing demand and post-pandemic economic recovery. The increase in oil prices not only impacts transportation costs, but also affects the prices of other merchandise because production costs increase. The increase in natural gas prices, especially in Europe, has also worsened inflation conditions. Furthermore, supply chain disruptions also contribute significantly to inflation. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in factory closures and delays in shipping goods worldwide. This creates a bottleneck in the supply of goods, increasing demand in the market without being matched by product availability. For example, rising semiconductor prices have affected the automotive and electronics industries, causing the prices of cars and electronic devices to soar. The monetary policies implemented by many central banks also play a role. In the face of the threat of recession, many central banks introduced low interest rates and massive asset purchase programs. Although this move was aimed at supporting liquidity, it was repeatedly criticized because it could lead to runaway inflation. The impact of global inflation is very diverse. First, people’s purchasing power has decreased, especially for low-income groups. Rising prices of basic goods, such as food and fuel, place significant financial pressure. This can trigger social discontent and protests, as has happened in many countries struggling to cope with inflation. Second, companies will experience an increase in production costs, which can result in cost cuts, including reducing the number of workers. In the long term, this could reduce economic growth and change the labor market landscape. Third, high inflation can trigger a policy response from the central bank. Raising interest rates is a common step taken to curb inflation. However, increasing interest rates can also slow economic growth, creating a dilemma for policymakers in various countries. Fourth, financial markets are also influenced by global inflation. Investors tend to look for more stable assets, such as gold and bonds which are considered safer, while shares can experience high volatility. This uncertainty can affect long-term investment and economic growth. Broken supply chains and rising energy prices pose additional challenges for developing countries that are predominantly dependent on energy imports. These countries risk facing more severe food and energy crises if inflation continues to soar. Finally, efforts to overcome global inflation require cross-country cooperation. World leaders must work together to create effective policies, share resources, and ensure that the economic recovery measures implemented do not lead to further inflationary impacts. Overall, rising global inflation and its impacts are complex, demanding careful responses from various stakeholders. A deep understanding of these factors and collaboration between countries will be key to overcoming the challenges facing the world economy today.
