Since the inception of NATO(initially, the League of Nations) and the UN, how many world wars have we had? How many nations once completely destitute and backwards have seen the bulk of their populations thrust into the emerging middle class? The global institutions have not been perfect, but they are a start to the eventual globalization of earth's populace. I am of the opinion that we shouldn't even need a passport for traveling.....now you need a passport to go to Canada. Unbelievable.
Russia? There are a few of the mega-rich, and the rest of the population are dirt-poor. Russia suffers from catastrophic below birth replacement rates. Swilling down ridiculous amounts of vodka have reduced lifespans to a mere 50 years. Meanwhile, you have Putin cavorting around due to his Napoleonic Complex while the knowing population simply shake their heads in shame and embarrassment...but not in the open, however: Russia is mob-ruled, fanatically loyal to Putin, who will murder journalists or anyone who dares speak out against fearless leader. Some progress, and some leader he is.