10 unexpected bright spots that emerged from a tough political year
A fresh look at positive developments that happened during this challenging year despite widespread negativity. From peaceful power transitions to economic wins these silver-linings deserve attention
In this years thanksgiving season finding reasons for gratitude needs some extra thought-process. Global issues like middle-east problems and ukraine situation dont make it easier‚ but there are still good things to notice
The recent US election showed an un-expected side: despite Donald Trump winning no-one tried to reverse the outcome. Democrats accepted results without any post-election mess which is quite rare these days (considering what happened in past elections)
The democratic party is going through big changes: Joe Biden‚ Nancy Pelosi and other long-time leaders are moving aside. Their work brought some good results but its time for new people with fresh ideas to step in; especially in foreign policy where old approaches didnt work well
The economy showed surprising strength thanks to Janet Yellen and Jerome Powell who managed to create a soft-landing after covid times. Even though many experts said it wasnt possible they proved everyone wrong – sadly voters didnt notice this achievement
- Seven states passed pro-choice laws
- Key races went to reproductive rights supporters
- Even trump-voting areas showed support
The world stayed safe from mass-destruction weapons this year which is good news: but some politicians are starting to talk about using them more often which isnt great. The ICC showed its teeth by issuing arrest warrants for both sides in middle-east conflict – a rare sign that international justice still works
Civil servants deserve special mention: these under-paid workers keep everything running despite all problems. Some like Josh Paul even quit their jobs to protest wrong policies which shows real courage
This years books brought lots of good stuff. Writers like Natasha Wheatley and Nick Harkaway made reading fun and useful at same time
Even Trumps new team shows some positive signs: their over-the-top plans might actually help people see whats wrong faster than expected. Maybe this will lead to positive changes sooner rather than later
Personal thanks go to Viennaʼs Institute for Human Sciences for being great hosts this fall season
