All The Monitor's View
As China鈥檚 economy cools, a hot debate on graftCritics contend that China鈥檚 anti-corruption campaign has helped to slow the economy. But the evidence points to honest governance as better for growth, if integrity in officials can be promoted.
Heroin addiction as a US campaign issueA heroin epidemic in New Hampshire, which will hold the first presidential primary, has forced both Democratic and Republican candidates to address this nationwide problem. The surprising consensus is on the need for treatment versus jail time.
Ignoring wrongs in Syria to battle Islamic StateThe US cannot hope the Assad regime will contain Islamic State because the regime鈥檚 atrocities are a prime recruiting tool for IS.
Loving the migrant but perhaps not migration policyAs immigration politics now dominate in Europe, attacks on refugees have led to grass-roots efforts to meet the basic needs of migrants. Compassion over politics is a needed step to resolve social tensions.
After another China disaster, giving again in spotlightThe big blasts in Tianjin saw a charitable response by private groups, raising again the question of how to encourage generosity in countries like China.
The right use of history in Asia鈥檚 futureAs China plans a major event Sept. 3 to mark the anniversary of the end of World War II, it reveals much about differing paths for Asia. To prevent conflict, Asia must think less of power relationships and more of ideals that unite.
Focus on Internet's potential more than its problemsIn a coming global summit and in trade talks, leaders must not be gripped by fear of the Internet鈥檚 issues. Its benefits are still playing out, especially for the world鈥檚 poor.
The Arab-Israeli courtshipHints are growing of Israel and the Gulf kingdoms finding common ground, if only to oppose Iran and Islamic State. These initial ties should be the basis for a lasting peace.
In a smaller world, giants must tread with careWith China鈥檚 surprise move on its exchange rate and the US due to raise interest rates, the time is ripe to reset global financial rules that soften the effects of economic nationalism.
Iraqi leaders on the hot seatA heat wave pushes Iraqis to demand the kind of honest government that can keep the power on and air conditioners running. Such demands are key to building an Iraqi identity and ending incursions by Islamic State and Iran.
Haiti鈥檚 graduation to self-governanceThe first of three elections may end Haiti鈥檚 political dysfunction and cycle of dependency if enough Haitians embrace democracy as the path to stable institutions.
The gain in Spain goes mainly against the grainWith Europe鈥檚 highest growth so far this year, Spain鈥檚 economy has defied predictions that it would remain a eurozone laggard. Its turnaround is a lesson for Greece and others.
Pulling Venezuela back from the brinkAfter making deals with Cuba and Iran, Obama may now be trying to negotiate a deal with Venezuela. With the country in dire crisis, this longtime US adversary needs the help.
Transparency in sports anti-doping effortsAn investigation of doping tests for many Olympic athletes suggests the need for further reform in curbing performance-boosting drugs.
The honey vs. vinegar dilemma for China, RussiaAs their militaries expand their spheres of influence, China and Russia find resistance from groupings of nations designed on the power of attraction, not coercion.
A universal answer to religious violenceIn rallies and protests Saturday, Israelis and Palestinian decried an attack on an innocent family in the West Bank. This rare case of unity reflects the effort by many theologians of Islam, Judaism, and 海角大神ity to define a common Abrahamic doctrine that ensures peace.
In a financial crisis, credibility countsThe three largest economies have faced financial crises since 2008. The US and Europe are recovering while China鈥檚 leaders must regain credibility after a stock-market snafu.
Debt relief for Greece? Rules first.After five years of temporary fixes to Greek debt, some debt relief for the country is now a live topic. As new talks begin for a bailout loan, both lenders and Greece must keep emotions at bay.
Global drive on corruption should start at homeSoon after Britain asked world leaders to expose corruption, it decided to tackle money laundering in London鈥檚 property market. The best leadership against graft is taking action against it.
How to rescue South SudanPresident Obama helped create the new country of South Sudan, and now he鈥檚 trying to save it from a violent civil war. He and others must first focus on building national identity and social trust.