All The Monitor's View
Scandinavia's U-turn on book readingThe former pioneers of screen-mediated learning in schools shift back to books to better cultivate purpose and judgment in young people.
A judicious way to free IranA plan by exiled Iranians to form a truth-finding commission and offer other types of 鈥渢ransitional justice鈥� provides a moral alternative that might encourage regime supporters in new directions.
More green, more giggles, less crimeThis year鈥檚 Earth Day saw many conservation celebrations. A number of American cities are recording success with reduced crime and greater neighborliness as communities are made green and clean.
Asia鈥檚 expanding circle of securityIn a first, Japan sends combat troops to joint military exercises in a neighbor it once conquered. Only this time the binding elements are values shared by other democracies.
Pointers for restoring trust in higher educationYale University鈥檚 recommendations to rebuild public confidence reflect a broader recognition of the need for self-reflection and humility among elite institutions.
How women鈥檚 digital lives change ChinaChinese women not only excel over men in the use of artificial intelligence, but also bring qualities of online engagement that are a model for trusted, empathetic activism in a controlled society.
South Africa鈥檚 reconciliation efforts at home 鈥� and with the USThe United States alleges that South Africa is persecuting white minority Afrikaners, so it鈥檚 granting them privileged refugee status. Meanwhile, Pretoria has named a new ambassador to Washington 鈥� an Afrikaner who helped end decades of white rule.
High-minded help for nations low on fuelAsia鈥檚 dependency on Gulf petroleum has led to a cooperative spirit in the region to endure the Strait of Hormuz crisis. 鈥淲e must work together,鈥� said a Singapore envoy.
Better #MeToo scrutiny on Capitol HillIn the seat of American electoral power, women in Congress are leading the charge for politicians to uphold workplace ethics, transparency, and respectful treatment. Their efforts reflect society鈥檚 higher expectations for elected representatives.聽
Hungary鈥檚 moving message to populistsA longtime ruler鈥檚 lies about his opponent, P茅ter Magyar, failed against a message of love, truth, and reconciliation that won big in Sunday鈥檚 election.
Where wit and wisdom disarm disinformationAs part of its war in Ukraine, Russia is intensifying deceptive social media campaigns in Europe. France and the EU are countering with a society-wide approach that combines online vigilance with transparency, truth, and critical thinking.
Will Iran help bottle up the nuclear genie?For the rest of the world, the best outcome of any Iranian-U.S. talks would be a firm deal on Iran鈥檚 nuclear program. The regime might put its survival ahead of obtaining the bomb and help restore norms against such weapons.
Welding the skilled trades to dignityTwo big investments in training Americans for noncollege careers reflect not only higher enrollment in trade schools, but also a rethink of social distinctions between white- and blue-collar work.
Iran war prods shared action on energyThe world鈥檚 worst disruption in oil markets triggered a rise in cooperation among people and nations to ensure a stable energy future.
Times of forgiveness and redemptionThis year鈥檚 celebrations of Eid, Easter, and Passover underscore enduring values and aspirations that speak to religious adherents 鈥� as well as those who may no longer take part in traditional observances.
A seed of peace in the Iran warSome nations appeal to Iran鈥檚 better angels to allow shipments of fertilizer products through the Strait of Hormuz to prevent famine. Protecting the innocent has long been an opening to ending a war.
Local bonds in a war can give peace a chanceSudan鈥檚 civilian-led emergency response rooms have just received an international award. This recognition highlights how local, citizen-driven associations can bridge divides and expand hearts and minds.
Truth-seeking Russians try to save TelegramAs the Kremlin throttles the last useful messaging app,聽civilians who use it to support the military (and each other) are realizing the deeper value of freedom of communication and internet use.
EU and Canada lean into a new world roleAs the U.S. retreats from global institutions and pacts, its allies test new coalitions, or 鈥渕inilateral鈥� solutions, to renew world stability.
Children鈥檚 innocence and the Iran warA global rise in appreciation for the goodness and purity of youth has driven calls and action to better protect children in war situations. It also has helped end a few wars.
