All The Monitor's View
- Why the pope was in Islam's heartland
His trip is part of a larger attempt by Christian, Muslim, and Jewish leaders since 9/11 to define the common theological threads that can repel violence and protect religious minorities.
- The best ‘wall’ against Central American migration
Presidential candidates who vow to curb corruption, like Nayib Bukele in El Salvador’s contest, reflect a rising citizen demand for clean government.
- A leadership style that unites Venezuela
The swift rise of a young and unknown politician, Juan Guaidó, 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’s halftime controversy
Some 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 succeed
The 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 Afghanistan
Even 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 Europe
Greece 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 worker
Gillette’s 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 Venezuela
Mass 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 corruption
After 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 election
In a surprise, the African Union intervenes in Congo to ensure a transparent vote count. The bloc could not ignore a rigged election – or the demand of young Africans for accountable governance.
- For Europe, a push against the violence of hate
The Continent can learn from Poland’s 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 catch
A president’s success in tackling one major theft of public resources – illegal fishing – is a model for his campaign against corruption and for a global fight against fish poaching.
- Justice served on internet gambling
A 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 tête-à-tête
France’s president, besieged by protests, initiates a national dialogue to gather ideas and form a new ‘contract.’ Has listening become key to political leadership?
- Behold Greeks giving thanks
Instead of reviling Germany’s leader for imposed austerity during a visit, Greece showed some gratitude. That has helped bilateral ties become based on trust and partnership.
- Renewing German-French vows for Europe
With the EU splintering on its edges, the original founders plan to better integrate their two peoples as a model of friendship for the rest of Europe.
- Breaking Latin America’s migration driver
The region needs fresh attempts at curbing gang violence, as Brazil’s new leader is learning. The promise, as he says, is that ‘good will beat evil.’
- A light of moral legitimacy in Congo, Venezuela
Leaders in both countries face postelection challenges by citizens and institutions who rely on social norms to determine power.
- In immigration standoff, a little tenderness, please
Federal workers are the latest victims in a national debate that requires all those who suffer from failed immigration policies to see the mutual misery. Such empathy can lead to a solution.