It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the amount of negative news out there. It can seem like the world is getting worse every day – with climate change, injustice, and political upheaval seemingly everywhere you look. But there are also positive changes happening all over the world, that often don’t get the attention they deserve.
From increased educational opportunities to improved global health and a growing shift towards sustainability, here are the top ways the world is changing for the better.
Educational Opportunities on the Rise
The world is becoming increasingly educated. According to UNESCO, the global youth literacy rate has risen significantly over the past two decades, increasing from 83 percent in 2000 to 91 percent in 2017. Additionally, the number of students pursuing higher education continues to grow.
The increased educational opportunities aren’t just helping individuals – they are also benefiting society as a whole. A number of studies have found that the more educated a society is, the more socially progressive and economically advanced the country tends to be.
Improving Health Outcomes
The world is becoming a healthier place. Global life expectancy at birth has steadily been increasing since 1994, meaning people are living longer, healthier lives.
This is thanks in part to increasing access to health care services. Many countries around the world have seen an increase in the number of people with health insurance. This has contributed to reducing global poverty and bettering the lives of millions of people.
At the same time, rates of major diseases such as childhood mortality, maternal mortality, and malaria have seen a significant decrease as well. Widespread immunization, improved access to health care, and increased investment from major organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) have all contributed to the betterment of global health.
Protecting the Environment
The world is also getting better at protecting the environment. In recent years, more and more countries have committed to reducing their carbon emissions and investing in renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and geothermal.
Additionally, businesses, organizations, and individuals have made pledges to become more sustainable and reduce their reliance on plastics and other non-renewable materials. This shift towards sustainable living is key in preserving Earth’s natural resources, protecting our environment, and reducing the damage being done to the planet.
Making Human Rights a Priority
Though there is still a long way to go, the world is gradually making human rights a priority. In the past few decades, more and more countries have signed and ratified international human rights conventions, ensuring that all citizens – regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or religion – are afforded the same basic rights and freedoms.
Additionally, many countries around the world have made strides towards abolishing the death penalty, which has always been a controversial issue. Countries like Canada, France, and the Netherlands have abolished the death penalty, citing it as a cruel and inhumane punishment that does not deter crime.
More Financial Equity
The world is also becoming more financially equitable. Studies have found that the gap between the wealthy and the poor has been decreasing for some time now. This is largely due to a variety of factors – from increased investment in public services to improved access to education.
Though there is still a long way to go, these initiatives are making a major difference in the lives of countless people around the world.
From educational opportunities to improved health outcomes and more sustainable lifestyles, the world is on its way to making big changes for the better. One thing is certain, if we continue to make progress in all of these areas, it will lead to a more just, sustainable, and equitable world for everyone.
