20 reasons for more optimism
Don’t be fooled by the misery in the news: amidst all the headlines about war, energy shortages and oppression there are a number of encouraging developments.
Published: 24.12.2022, 20:56
uprising against autocrats
Fight for freedom: Thousands make their way to the cemetery in Saqez on October 16, where 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in custody, is buried.
Photo: AFP, UGC Image
Despite all the negative news this year, one thing gave us great hope: the courage of the people to rebel against oppression and violence. Whether in Ukraine, Iran or China – people are fighting for freedom and human rights at great risk, sometimes risking their lives. Hardly anyone in the West believed that Ukraine could hold its own against an attack by Russia, which was supposedly overpowered. The country was even recommended to surrender. But the Ukrainians showed how much energy is released when you fight for an idea, for independence and self-determination.