Progress Amidst Challenges: The Best of 2025

Even amidst the roughest of backdrops, progress continues. This year brought the world several high-profile setbacks—from democratic backsliding in the United States to war in the Middle East—but also marked significant medical breakthroughs, conservation wins, and landmark events. Here are 10 of the best things that happened in 2025 that moved the world forward.

1. Unprecedented Murder Drop

2025 is shaping up to be one of the most nonviolent years in recent memory. According to crime analyst Jeff Asher, early statistics suggest the murder rate in the United States may be the lowest recorded since reliable data began in 1960. The decline has been so dramatic that it could also set the record for the largest one-year drop. As communities strive for better safety and law enforcement practices, this trend offers a glimmer of hope.

2. Marine Conservation Victories

Marine conservationists celebrated significant wins this year. After decades of being labeled endangered, the green sea turtle was reclassified as a “species of least concern,” due to a 30% increase in population since the 1970s, thanks to international protection efforts. Additionally, the world ratified its first treaty for high seas protection, which will become legally binding in January 2026, creating a robust framework for biodiversity preservation.

3. A New Cancer Vaccine Era

This year marked a pivotal advance in cancer prevention with trials beginning for the first preventative lung cancer vaccine. Promising early results were also noted in trials for an mRNA vaccine aimed at preventing pancreatic cancer recurrence. Remarkably, studies suggested that patients administered the COVID-19 vaccine showed nearly double the survival rates compared to those who received no vaccine. These advances signal hope for a future where cancer might be tackled more effectively.

4. Gene Therapy Miracles

In an inspiring case, a baby named KJ Muldoon, born with a life-threatening liver condition, received a customized CRISPR-based therapy that stabilized his condition—a groundbreaking first. This advancement, alongside successful trials slowing the progression of Huntington’s disease, illustrates the transformative potential of gene therapy. Adjustments by the FDA to fast-track such treatments mean that more patients might benefit from personalized, life-saving interventions.

5. Renewables Are King

For the first time in history, renewable energy surpassed coal as the world’s leading source of electricity in the first half of 2025. Solar power, in particular, has seen explosive growth, even in regions previously lagging behind in renewable energy adoption. Furthermore, China made its first commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 7-10% by 2035, with hopeful implications for global climate agreements.

6. Europe Revisits Its Rape Laws

France, Poland, and Norway shifted toward consent-based definitions of rape, moving beyond coercion-based laws that often necessitated violence for an assault to be classified as rape. This change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of consent and has paved the way for over 20 European countries to adopt similar laws, promoting safer environments for victims.

7. HIV Prevention Shot Breaks Records

The FDA approved lenacapavir, an injectable treatment that provides nearly perfect protection against HIV. Eswatini and Zambia received their first doses within months of its approval, marking a significant milestone for HIV prevention efforts in Africa. A deal ensuring its availability for just $40 in low- and middle-income countries is crucial for wider access, offering hope for future HIV eradication.

8. Moving Toward Democratic Stability

Despite widespread conflict, some countries made strides towards democratic stability in 2025. South Koreans successfully impeached their president for attempting to impose martial law, safeguarding their democracy. In Brazil, former president Jair Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years for a coup attempt, marking a significant moment against autocratic power. Meanwhile, Syrians celebrated the first anniversary of ousting dictator Bashar al-Assad, marking a tentative step toward stabilizing governance.

9. Prediction Progress

Artificial intelligence began transforming weather forecasting this year. AI-assisted hurricane predictions helped forecasters accurately warn communities several days in advance, providing critical time for evacuation. In Japan, a revolutionary earthquake detection system has improved warning times significantly, adding valuable seconds to alerts, ultimately helping save lives.

10. No Cell Phones in Schools

A growing trend saw countries like South Korea and Sweden banning cell phone use in schools, with over 40% of educational systems worldwide adopting or contemplating similar measures. In the U.S., 35 states introduced restrictions on cell phone use in schools, aiming to curb distractions and improve focus among students.

These remarkable strides highlight humanity’s capacity for progress, even when faced with significant challenges. As 2025 unfolds, these achievements offer a glimmer of hope for a more prosperous and equitable future.