All The Monitor's View
Africans go all in on civic participationRich or poor, rural or urban, citizens in many African countries are engaging at the ballot box 鈥� and with each other. Sustained joint action is deepening democracy鈥檚 roots across the continent.
Ukraine鈥檚 big powers at big-power talksThe purpose of the Trump-Putin summit has shifted as Ukraine shows how small countries can learn to play to their strengths.
Albanians cheer corruption cleanupWith popular support 鈥� and help from European neighbors 鈥� Albania鈥檚 leaders are making inroads against transnational crime and government graft, and deepening democratic roots.
When the going gets tough, the tough giveAn era of budget cuts and tax changes is a test for American generosity. Yet the spirit of giving finds its way.
For Eurasian foes, peace over reprisalAn accord between Armenia and Azerbaijan can help a conflict-ridden region move beyond a history of ethnic hostility and toward economic progress.
Atoning for France鈥檚 imperial pastFrom planning to recognize a Palestinian state to making amends toward former colonies, the French president brings a measure of humility in looking hard at atrocities.
Mexico鈥檚 smart moves for safetyAmid new agreements with the U.S., President Claudia Sheinbaum is balancing domestic and international challenges while combating crime and corruption.
An inclusive Lebanon, one fewer gun at a timeFor the first time, the country鈥檚 leaders discuss a timetable for disarmament with Hezbollah, giving the militant group an opening to focus on a democratic path.
A 鈥榯ruce鈥� over free speech in Iran?Following a public outcry, the president has pulled back an internet censorship bill. Can this move help repair Iranians鈥� trust in government?聽
An Arab light on a Hamas-free GazaMuch of the Muslim world has asked Hamas to end its governance, perhaps initiating聽freedom for聽a people who already embrace their individual sovereignty and right to self-governance.
Stand-ups won鈥檛 sit down in ChinaWhile overtly political comedy can spell trouble, stand-up comics 鈥� including an increasing number of women 鈥� are finding creative ways to question restrictive norms.
Heart-to-heart change in AfghanistanA tragedy of mass deportation has triggered mass charity among Afghans, opening doors for dialogue with the Taliban.
Social media self-control among studentsStudents are seeking to better manage their engagement with cellphone and social media use, with practical strategies and shared reflection.
Upturns and U-turns in UkraineA rising civic maturity, forged by war, has driven young people to protest a law weakening safeguards against corruption. A shift in values has put the president on the spot.
Glimmers of civil compromise in CongressAmid political divides and posturing, a group of representatives are pursuing compromise on hot-button immigration issues. And others are seeking to make bipartisanship the norm rather than the exception.
For Gaza and Israel, a push for 鈥榮piritual diplomacy鈥�When world clergy meet in September, they will bring the power of prayer and interfaith harmony to conflicts like the one in Gaza.
A youthful force for peaceWars weigh heavily on young people. Yet more youth activists are addressing conflict and its causes in their communities 鈥� framing conversations around what peace would look like.
China鈥檚 mental shift on deflationFalling prices for electric cars and other signs of deflation have led China鈥檚 ruling party to challenge an economic mindset, which has led to the distorting market effects of subsidies.
Why cities are safer: Caring and consequencesCollaboration among local government, police, and community groups has helped cut violent crime in many US cities. One essential: care that persuades individuals to care about their community.
Ukraine鈥檚 tools for voteless democracyAs Russia squeezes its citizens into submission, Ukrainians rely on a spirit of equality and respect to maintain legitimate governance. One tool: e-petitions to the president鈥檚 inbox.
