All The Monitor's View
Remodeling the Muslim response to terror attacksAs the Islamic State and other groups step up attacks in the Mideast and North Africa, the responses of each country matter even more 鈥� and reveal sharp differences. Which response will best lead to peace?
Mexico's high expectations of peaceAs killings drop in Mexico, a study measures the country's potential for peace. It finds attitudes and institutions in place that give Mexico a 'peace surplus.'
After a divisive election, Israel needs 'to heal'The March 17 election was a victory for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But the harsh campaign left too many rips in Israeli society and in ties with the US. Much mending will be needed.
Colombia's virtuous path to peaceIn talks to end six decades of civil war, the government and the rebel group FARC agree on minor humanitarian steps, such as demining, a truth commission, and rural development. These may create trust and empathy for making the hard compromises for reconciliation.
Human trafficking: bottom-up solutionsBoth the US and Britain are moving to stem sex and labor trafficking. But those involved in the problem say each community must rethink views of the victims and embrace them with aid and support.
A $5 billion downpayment on Ukraine's futureThe first IMF financial aid to Ukraine reflects an astounding turnaround in civic reform and national identity, despite Russia's threats and a deep legacy of corruption.
Brazil scores a big goal 鈥� for rule of lawWith a huge scandal at the state oil company, Brazil's high court approves a probe of top politicians, reflecting a rising popular demand for an end to impunity of the powerful and a greater respect for equality under rule of law.
The nonmilitary victories in Iraq's battle of TikritThe Iraqi Army's advance against Islamic State in the city of Tikrit reflects not only a military win but greater inclusion of Sunni and Shiite and, perhaps, a decline in Iraq's cycle of revenge killings.
German lessons for an Asia riven by historyDuring a trip to Tokyo, German leader Angela Merkel assisted Japan, China, and South Korea with insights on how postwar Germany and the rest of Europe reconciled. Will they listen?
How the oil price drop can lift a 'curse'Nations that misused oil wealth now find their mistakes being exposed with the plunge in petroleum prices. This is a blessing for other nations with newfound natural resources. The 'resource curse' could be avoided if they invest wisely.
Why more, not fewer, people prayDespite record declines in religious affiliation, more Americans pray than 30 years ago. Why? Researchers say those who pray find prayer brings spiritual meaning and understanding.
China's long march to innovationIts leaders, like those in other countries, worry about 'insufficient' innovation. Yet lately the Communist Party has heightened a climate of fear that only stifles free thought. The Chinese people, meanwhile, have steadily embraced values that drive modern entrepreneurship.
For ethics in banking, rules aren't enoughFed chief Janet Yellen worries about 'shortcomings' in values among bank workers, and the effects on the financial system. How can banks change from 'mere compliance' to 'good compliance'?
Mideast looks for a 'Switzerland'As Israel and Iran square off over nuclear talks and war rages in Iraq and Syria, some Middle East nations seek a role as an island of neutrality and peacemaking, with Switzerland as a model.
An ancient way to rally IraqisA reformed democracy has helped unite Iraqis to fight Islamic State. Yet just as important is their shared history as home to humanity's first civilizations, reflected in the reopening of the Iraq National Museum.
Why Russians march: to replace 'campaigns of hate'A huge rally in Moscow in memory of slain dissident Boris Nemtsov also focused on state-run media's vilification of critics of Putin's policies. Demonization, either in Russia or by the West, must end to help solve issues like Ukraine.
In praise of Africa's welcome matEven as refugee crises escalate in Africa, many of its nations keep borders open for those fleeing war, Ebola, terror, weather, repression. They deserve praise as much as aid for this compassion.
Why tolerance of religion is not enoughWith millions fleeing religious-related violence, protection of peaceful religious expression requires active, evenhanded work by judges and elected officials. Free countries must set a model of cool, calm balancing of freedom of religion and compelling public needs.聽
Behold Greeks bearing pledges of tax complianceEurope's future depends in large part on Greece's recovery, and in turn Greeks no longer avoiding taxes. A new government's pledge gives hope for a shift in civic virtue.
How to encircle Islamic StateActs of terror by Islamic State or related groups have evoked fear, flight, or fight. Some Muslims, Jews, and 海角大神s seek an alternative response.
