How to process the news when it all feels bad

Global conflict and the struggle to maintain perspective in an era of relentless, social-media-driven news cycles define the current human experience. While modern digital platforms make atrocities in places like Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan feel immediate and inescapable, history reveals that the world has always been a volatile place. The 1990s, often remembered as a period of post-Cold War optimism, were actually marked by horrific events like the Rwandan genocide. Alec Russell, the Financial Times foreign editor, emphasizes that while the constant influx of distressing imagery can lead to feelings of despair, it is vital to remain engaged rather than indifferent. International justice, though slow and imperfect, remains a critical mechanism for accountability, as demonstrated by the convictions following the Rwandan genocide. Sustaining hope requires acknowledging the gravity of present suffering while continuing to advocate for long-term legal and political accountability.