2016 had its fair share of political earthquakes. Leaders with authoritarian tendencies rose and clung to power seemingly everywhere, defying trends of globalization and openness.
But even though this year may be remembered as the year of the fiery nationalist, there were many world leaders who remained cool, calm, and collected, leading with wisdom and grace.
Here are 7 leaders who rose above divisions, both domestic and international, to bring people together.
1/ Justin Trudeau
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is one of the most woke heads of state in the world. He speaks sincerely about the historical abuses faced by indigenous peoples. He is a staunch feminist. He embraces refugees. He's a leader on climate change. And he always reminds people to choose kindness over hate.
2/ Angela Merkel
German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the G8 in 2008.
President Angela Merkel wants Germany to be a beacon of hope and tolerance. Her commitment to helping and protecting refugees is unparalled, especially as her country undergoes its own reactionary shift.
3/ Pope Francis
When the world needs a voice of moral clarity, it usually turns to Pope Francis. He speaks passionately about protecting the environment, reducing inequality, helping refugees, helping the poor, and so many other issues that transcend religion.
Read More: 7 Times Pope Francis Proved to Be a True Global Citizen
4/ Aung San Suu Kyi
Aung San Suu Kyi became president of Myanmar at the end of 2015, after more than 15 years under house arrest for her human rights activism. Her commitment to justice has not waned since she gained power.
Read More: Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi's Party Takes Historic Control of Myanmar’s Parliament
5/ Barack Obama
Even though 2016 is his final year in office, Barack Obama did not sit back to wind down his days. He's been on a mission to protect the environment, ensure equal representation under the law, and protect women's rights. And he's done all this with the superhuman equanimity he's known for.
Read More: Obama on ‘Daily Show’: I Won’t Stay Quiet During Trump’s Presidency
6/ Ban Ki-moon
Leading the UN is not easy — you face an endless barrage of catastrophes and your power to do anything is often woefully restricted. But despite all these challenges, Ban Ki-moon has courageously defended the rights of the most vulnerable and has campaigned tirelessly for a better world.
Read More: António Guterres Is the New UN Secretary-General
7/ Juan Manuel Santos
The Colombian civil war went on for five decades, until president Juan Manuel Santos brokered peace.