All The Monitor's View
- An Internet army of truth-tellers
Despite Russia's attempts to control the Internet and manipulate opinion, especially over events in Ukraine, the truth seeps out. Social-media activists help ensure the free flow of ideas and facts.
- How to defang Russia, China
In Obama's coming visit to Japan, and Biden's to Ukraine, the US can counter the territorial aggression of Russia and China by affirming the power of alliances based on universal ideals.
- Why Ukraine forces must act differently
The start of operations against protesters in eastern Ukraine will be a test of the country's new commitment to democratic rights, such as peaceful assembly. Soldiers must now show restraint against unarmed demonstrators, less so against armed ones. This will influence Russia's actions.
- How to prevent a Boston-type bombing
On the first anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombings, one focus should be on how Muslims can prevent fellow believers from drifting toward radical ideology. What if the Tsarnaev brothers had been given such help?
- Be glad for Greeks bearing gifts
Greece's welcome return to financial markets after years of austerity shows Europe's economy is on the mend. Belt-tightening in the most-troubled euro nations is leading to growth.
- A year later, lessons from the Boston Marathon bombings
Long after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, the city felt a surprising social cohesion, the kind that helps bring hope and healing. Many cities try to boost 'social resilience' to act as a community shock absorber and as a building stone after a tragedy.
- In a year of many elections, Muslim ones stand out
Elections in Indonesia, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Tunisia could further redefine Islam's role in Muslim countries still learning the ways of democracy.
- Tallying up social progress
Trying to measure social progress with a global index that compares countries can be as fraught as the reliance on GDP statistics. Yet it points to new ways to view progress.
- Stepping up the innovation ladder
Protests in Taiwan against a trade pact with China illustrate the difficulties that countries can have in staying innovative enough to compete with low-wage nations. Innovation often requires a culture shift.
- India election: a pivot to Hindu nationalism?
The India election that begins this week could catapult a Hindu nationalist, Narendra Modi, to power. How he defines the national interest will determine India's place in the world as a peaceful player.
- What to celebrate in Rwanda's genocide anniversary
The 20th anniversary of the Rwanda genocide should focus as much on how the African nation worked toward reconciliation through forgiveness as on the mass slaughter itself.
- Why a Supreme Court ruling may help curb corruption
A Supreme Court ruling that further lifts curbs on money in politics is a reminder of why global efforts against corruption must be grass roots.
- The US-Russia 'great game' over Ukraine
The US-Russia talks over Ukraine's future left out the Ukrainian people, treating them like pawns on a chessboard. In the age of democracy and the Internet, big powers cannot go over the heads of individuals and their aspirations.
- Afghanistan election: a feat to behold
Despite Taliban threats against voters, Afghans are eager to cast ballots in Saturday's pivotal presidential election. The world must support their desire to consolidate their triumphs since 2001.
- Obama's taxing proposal on giving
Even as he enlists private charity to help young men of color, President Obama again proposes a new cap on the charitable tax deduction. There need be no clash between private giving and paying taxes.
- What Obama should ask of Saudi Arabia
President Obama's trip to Saudi Arabia comes as a Middle East struggle over 'political Islam' reaches a boiling point. The president can ask his royal hosts what is the best form of government for the world's Muslims.
- The Obama challenge to Putin's lawlessness
From Crimea to China to Egypt, authoritarian regimes are defying international norms. In a speech in Europe, President Obama wisely stands up for rule of law derived through democratic procedures, citing Putin's Crimea grab as Exhibit A for what not to do.
- All bets are off in NCAA Tournament 2014
Betting on the brackets during March Madness has turned an amateur college sport based on talent and teamwork into an idol of luck. Gambling on the NCAA Tournament may also turn out to be a fun-killer and an illusion of self-control.
- A rush to restore global order after Crimea
Russia's taking of Crimea has spurred a drive to save international norms, reflected in its expulsion from the G-8. This shows the deep desire to maintain a world order, not only to avoid conflicts but for further progress.
- To safeguard Asia, Obama must first deal with a test of penitence
Obama wisely brings together the leaders of South Korea and Japan, a necessary step to reconcile them over their history and allow them to cooperate in defending Asia's security.