All The Monitor's View
The harsh light on Iran鈥檚 Islamic RevolutionThe celebration of the revolution鈥檚 40th anniversary was not focused on its weakest link: arbitrary rule by an unelected cleric. Iranians prefer other models, based on equality and freedom.
A princess upends Thailand's old guardIn an election bid, the daughter of the late king sheds her royal rights and sends a signal about equality and individual sovereignty.
Measuring victory over Islamic StatePresident Trump鈥檚 plan to declare victory over the militant group鈥檚 last stronghold rests on only one type of victory needed to end the roots of terrorism.
A contest of butter vs. guns in VenezuelaThe military鈥檚 blockage of foreign aid should not be countered by outside force. Democracy鈥檚 future there depends on peaceful means to win over the armed forces.
Exit or grace for Virginia's governor?The case of Gov. Ralph Northam and his past racist acts should compel the political parties to explore ways of justice that bring healing for victims, society, and the perpetrator.
Why the pope was in Islam's heartlandHis trip is part of a larger attempt by 海角大神, Muslim, and Jewish leaders since 9/11 to define the common theological threads that can repel violence and protect religious minorities.
The best 鈥榳all鈥� against Central American migrationPresidential candidates who vow to curb corruption, like Nayib Bukele in El Salvador鈥檚 contest, reflect a rising citizen demand for clean government.
A leadership style that unites VenezuelaThe swift rise of a young and unknown politician, Juan Guaid贸, as interim president was as much a result of his own humility as of political forces. His style has united a splintered opposition.
Super Bowl鈥檚 halftime controversySome want to send a political message. Others just want to enjoy the sporting event and its entertainment. Civility on race issues can only help civil rights.
When anti-corruption protests succeedThe latest ranking of nations by corruption levels shows a link to levels of democracy. Popular demands for leaders with integrity are also demands for accountability and transparency.
A plank for peace in AfghanistanEven a tentative agreement on two points between the US and the Taliban can allow for more trust-building and for new ideas to emerge and help end a 17-year war.
A name change that changes EuropeGreece agrees that its neighbor can use the name Macedonia, ending a long dispute and adding to the peace growing in the Balkans.
A plug for the purpose-driven workerGillette鈥檚 recent ad about masculinity reflects a wider corporate desire to stand up for a cause as a way to earn the trust of workers demanding purpose in life.
Forgiveness as a peace tool in VenezuelaMass protests may not be enough to bring down an illegitimate regime. Offers of mercy to the military, however, might turn the conscience of soldiers.
Dousing the fires of corruptionAfter a mass tragedy for gasoline thieves in Mexico, a new president offers a different way to deal with the evil of corruption.
A bolt of integrity in a big African electionIn a surprise, the African Union intervenes in Congo to ensure a transparent vote count. The bloc could not ignore a rigged election 鈥� or the demand of young Africans for accountable governance.
For Europe, a push against the violence of hateThe Continent can learn from Poland鈥檚 reaction to the killing of a mayor and the many ways to counter a rise in hate speech.
In Indonesia, honesty has been a good catchA president鈥檚 success in tackling one major theft of public resources 鈥� illegal fishing 鈥� is a model for his campaign against corruption and for a global fight against fish poaching.
Justice served on internet gamblingA legal opinion by the Justice Department reinstates a long-held interpretation of a 1961 law against gambling by electronic means. States moving toward online gaming should take note.
When big nations need a little t锚te-脿-t锚teFrance鈥檚 president, besieged by protests, initiates a national dialogue to gather ideas and form a new 鈥榗ontract.鈥� Has listening become key to political leadership?
