2025 has barely begin, and we are already embroiled in a highly divided world. On the one hand, we have the the foremost superpower of the world putting self-protection above its reputation as the protector of the world order. On the other, we see the tech giants of the world pushing the boundaries of machine intelligence without any brakes.

The question arises—are human values eroding, or were they always an idealistic construct? Trust, empathy, fairness, and morality have long been considered fundamental pillars of a functioning society. However, recent global events suggest a shift, forcing us to re-evaluate the relevance and resilience of these values in the modern world.

Trust and Diplomacy: A Fading Virtue?

Diplomacy has traditionally been a mechanism for peace and cooperation, yet recent conflicts highlight its fragility. The Ukraine crisis is a prime example, rooted in the violation of the Budapest Memorandum—a 1994 agreement in which Ukraine gave up its nuclear arsenal in exchange for security assurances from the U.S., U.K., and Russia. However, Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the full-scale invasion in 2022 shattered the premise of diplomatic trust. The breach raises a pressing concern: if international agreements are not honored, what does this mean for global stability? The erosion of trust in diplomatic processes not only escalates conflicts but also diminishes hope in international cooperation as a means of conflict resolution.

Abuse and the Bystander Effect: Apathy Over Action?

Human values are most tested in the face of injustice. The worldwide crisis of human trafficking is a stark reminder of how abuse thrives under society’s passive watch. The Megan Khung case, among many others, underscores the devastating impact of systemic failures and societal indifference. The bystander effect—the tendency of individuals to avoid intervention when others are present—exacerbates such issues. Despite growing awareness, human trafficking continues at an alarming rate, often enabled by weak enforcement, corruption, and public disengagement. The question lingers: are we genuinely losing our moral compass, or have we always been selectively empathetic?

Economic Disparity: A State-Endorsed Reality?

While economic growth is often cited as a marker of national progress, its distribution tells a different story. Singapore’s budget surplus, coupled with discussions on social spending, has sparked debates about wealth allocation and economic disparity. Governments, acting as commercial enterprises, sometimes prioritize economic gains over equitable distribution. Rule-breaking in business, whether through regulatory loopholes or monopolistic practices, often benefits a select few while increasing financial strain on the average citizen. The rising cost of living and economic inequalities fuel frustration, leading to widespread discontent. Are economic policies designed to uplift societies, or are they increasingly skewed toward self-sustaining elite structures?

Technology and AI: A Boon or a Threat to Humanity?

Technology and AI have revolutionized industries, but at what cost? While they promise efficiency and progress, their role in replacing human labor raises ethical concerns. Automation has displaced millions of jobs, leading to growing fears about economic security. The fundamental question remains—if AI is designed to assist humanity, why does it often end up marginalizing workers instead? The ethical considerations of AI-driven decision-making, biases in algorithms, and loss of human touch in essential services further challenge the notion of technology as a force for good. Have we miscalculated AI’s purpose, or is it merely a tool that reflects existing human priorities?

Conclusion: A Crossroads for Human Values

While it is easy to argue that human values are eroding, history suggests that they have always been tested by shifting power dynamics, economic structures, and technological revolutions. The real question is not whether values are disappearing, but whether societies are willing to uphold them in the face of adversity. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it becomes imperative to reassert the importance of trust, empathy, fairness, and ethical progress—before they become relics of the past.