The world population on January 1, 2003, was estimated to be 6.272 billion people and increased to 6.353 billion … See more

There were 29 armed conflicts affecting 22 countries in 2003. This was a net decrease from 31 conflicts in 2002. The deadliest conflicts were in Iraq, Kashmir, Liberia, Nepal, and Sudan.
The … See more

The highest-grossing films globally in 2003 were The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Finding Nemo, and The Matrix Reloaded. The highest-grossing non-English film was Bayside Shakedown 2 (Japanese)… See more

The global economy improved in the second half of 2003 as it recovered from the early 2000s recession, brought about by low interest rates and expansionary fiscal policy. The United States led the recovery, while Chin… See more

2003 tied with 2002 as the second hottest year on record, behind only 1998. The year began during an El Niño period that continued until April. A major heatwave occurred in Europe during the summer, causing ap… See more

The World Health Organization set "shaping the future" as its health focus for 2003, seeking to improve health systems and primary health care for the poor. See more