Today (2017 C.E. - 2025 C.E.)

Mogadishu, Somalia

Somalis vote in the first one-person, one-vote local election since 1969

By / / Good News For Humankind

In a historic stride toward democracy, citizens in Mogadishu have cast direct ballots in local elections for the first time in over five decades. This one-person-one-vote process marks a major departure from the traditional clan-based system, restoring the fundamental right of individuals to choose their representatives. The peaceful turnout, particularly among women and youth, demonstrates a powerful resilience and a demand for accountable governance. This milestone in the capital is seen as a vital precursor to future national elections, signaling a new era of stability and civic engagement for Somalia.

Arizona flag

Arizona cancels more than $200 million in medical debt for almost half-a-million residents

By / / Good News For Humankind

Arizona has achieved a major victory for financial security by cancelling medical debt for nearly half a million residents. Governor Katie Hobbs announced the state has erased more than $200 million in this latest round, bringing the total debt forgiven to $642 million. Utilizing federal funds and partnering with the non-profit Undue Medical Debt, the program targets low-income households without requiring any application. This decisive action restores credit scores, relieves mental stress, and boosts the local economy by freeing up household income for essentials.

Mountain landscape with blue sky in background

More than 325,000 acres of Chilean Patagonia now protected after “remarkable” local fundraising

By / / Good News For Humankind

In a monumental victory for grassroots conservation, a local coalition has successfully raised 78 million dollars to purchase and protect approximately 328,000 acres of pristine wilderness in Chilean Patagonia. This massive area, known as Hacienda Pucheguin, is home to ancient alerce forests, glaciers, and endangered wildlife like the huemul deer. The initiative, led by the NGO Puelo Patagonia, prevents industrial development and establishes a new model for private conservation that integrates sustainable ecotourism and community stewardship.

Infant in NICU

Colorado becomes first state in the U.S. to offer paid neonatal care leave

By / / Good News For Humankind

Colorado has made history as the first state in the U.S. to implement paid neonatal care leave, providing critical support for families with infants requiring extended hospitalization. This pioneering policy allows eligible parents to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave specifically for neonatal care, in addition to standard bonding leave. This ensures parents can remain by their baby’s side during NICU stays without financial fear.

Hens outside

England outlaws hen cages and pig crates in historic animal welfare reform

By / / Good News For Humankind

This landmark legislation will phase out restrictive confinement systems, ensuring millions of animals can express natural behaviors and live free from extreme restraint. The move, supported by a phased transition plan and funding for farmers, aligns English agriculture with strong public demand for ethical food. It cements England’s position as a global leader in high-welfare, sustainable farming standards.

Marshall Islands flag

Marshall Islands launches national universal basic income

By / / Good News For Humankind

The Republic of the Marshall Islands has pioneered a new economic model with the launch of the Sovereign (SOV). This national digital currency funds a Universal Basic Income, providing citizens with quarterly payments of roughly $200 USD. Operating a dual-currency system, the scheme allows residents to receive these automatic dividends in digital SOV or instantly convert them to US dollars for daily needs. This innovative approach provides a stable financial safety net while promoting long-term economic independence.

Oil refinery

Canada sets new rules to lower oil and gas methane emissions 

By / / Good News For Humankind

The Canadian government has finalized a landmark set of regulations designed to slash methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by at least 75% by 2035. This decisive policy bans routine venting and flaring while mandating advanced leak detection technologies across the industry. By targeting this potent greenhouse gas, Canada is taking one of the fastest, most cost-effective steps available to slow near-term global warming and improve air quality for local communities.

Mexican pesos

Mexico to boost minimum wage 13% in 2026

By / / Good News For Humankind

The Mexican government has announced a 13% increase in the daily minimum wage for 2026, raising it to 315.04 pesos. This marks the eighth consecutive year of substantial hikes, a policy that has successfully doubled the real value of the wage since 2018. This sustained commitment is lifting millions out of poverty and strengthening the domestic economy by boosting consumer purchasing power.

Foxes

Poland bans fur farming

By / / Good News For Humankind

In a monumental victory for animal welfare, Poland has officially banned fur farming. President Karol Nawrocki signed the legislation, which prohibits new farms immediately and mandates the closure of all existing operations by 2033. As the European Union’s largest fur producer, this decision will spare over 3.5 million animals annually from confinement and slaughter. The law includes compensation for farmers, reflecting a strong national consensus to transition toward a more ethical and sustainable economy.

Indian women

Indian states sending cash transfers to 118 million women for unpaid household work

By / / Good News For Humankind

Several Indian states have launched schemes to provide unconditional monthly financial compensation to homemakers. These programs are now delivering direct cash transfers to over 118 million women nationwide. This policy innovation recognizes the immense value of unpaid domestic labor, empowering women with financial independence to support their families’ health and education. It sets a powerful global precedent for validating care work as essential to the economy.