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UAE Emerges As One Of The Most Trusting Nations In 2025

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 21, 2025

The UAE continues to be one of the most trusted countries in the world, according to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer. While many nations struggle with declining trust due to misinformation and economic instability, the UAE remains a beacon of confidence, achieving high trust levels in both government and business institutions.

Global Trust Rankings

The report highlights a stark divide in trust levels across the world. Five of the ten largest global economies rank among the least trusting nations, with Japan at 37%, Germany at 41%, the UK at 43%, the U.S. at 47%, and France at 48%. Meanwhile, countries like China (77%), Indonesia (76%), India (75%), and the UAE (72%) continue to lead the Trust Index.

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The UAE was first included in the Edelman Trust Barometer in 2010 and has consistently ranked among the top nations. Citizens view the country’s leadership and institutions as both competent and ethical, reinforcing its stability.

UAE Government: A Global Trust Leader

With 82% trust among respondents, the UAE government is the most trusted institution in the country and one of the highest-ranked globally. This far exceeds the global average of 52%.

Trust in business is also strong, with 76% of UAE respondents believing that businesses act responsibly, compared to the global average of 62%. Additionally, societal trust remains high, with teachers (85%) and citizens (79%) viewed as highly trustworthy.

Trust And Optimism In The UAE

The report links high trust levels to optimism about the future. In the UAE, 60% of respondents believe the next generation will be better off, significantly higher than the global average of 36%.

“The UAE has demonstrated that when institutions act with integrity and competence, trust flourishes. Where trust thrives, optimism overcomes uncertainty, paving the way for a brighter future,” said Omar Qirem, CEO of Edelman Middle East.

Global Trust Crisis And UAE’s Stability

While trust remains strong in the UAE, the global landscape presents a different picture. Widespread concerns over misinformation, inequality, and economic instability have led to declining trust worldwide. According to the report, 63% of individuals find it increasingly difficult to distinguish between credible sources and deceptive information. Additionally, two-thirds believe the wealthy do not contribute their fair share in taxes.

Despite these global challenges, the UAE stands out as a nation where trust in institutions and optimism for the future remain resilient, reinforcing its position as a leader in global stability and confidence.

EU Unveils Energy Plan To Cut Costs And Reduce Gas Dependence

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 21, 2025

The European Union is accelerating efforts to secure energy independence and shield industries from volatile energy prices. Its latest strategy focuses on fast-tracking renewable energy development, reshaping the gas market, and cutting reliance on Russian energy imports.

Key Initiatives: Breaking Free From Russian Gas

The EU remains focused on diversifying its energy supply, particularly in reducing reliance on Russian gas. Although pipeline imports have plummeted in recent years, liquefied Russian gas (LNG) shipments to the bloc actually increased in 2024. Brussels aims to eliminate all Russian energy imports by 2027.

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Next week, the European Commission will unveil a sweeping industrial support package, including plans to strengthen ties with LNG suppliers and expand infrastructure for exporting LNG. Strict market regulations will also be introduced to curb speculative trading that leads to price spikes.

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“Instead of using taxpayers’ money to pay for Russian gas while the proceeds go directly to Vladimir Putin’s coffers, the EU should do everything possible to start producing its own energy. However, there is still a need for gas, and we will have to find sources other than Russia. This could also mean more imports from the US,” said EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen.

Europe’s New Energy Model

The US has become the EU’s primary LNG supplier, especially after the 2022 war in Ukraine drastically cut Russian gas flows. The European Commission does not purchase gas directly but is working on new strategies to secure stable, long-term LNG contracts modeled after Japan’s approach—where Tokyo finances export infrastructure to lock in favorable agreements.

Under EU law, existing gas contracts must end by 2049 to meet the bloc’s 2050 net-zero emissions goal. While renewable energy adoption is expanding, electricity prices remain linked to the cost of gas. The Commission is now preparing a demand-pooling mechanism, allowing European companies to negotiate collective LNG supply deals to hedge against market volatility.

The final version of the energy package will be officially released on February 26, with potential revisions before publication.

Navigating Tensions With The US

The EU’s energy transition is further complicated by geopolitical tensions with Washington. President Donald Trump has warned of trade tariffs if Europe does not increase oil and gas imports from the US. With EU-US trade reaching a record $1.29 trillion in 2021, any disruptions could have widespread economic consequences.

Trump’s administration is also ramping up tariffs on key European exports, including steel, aluminum, cars, and pharmaceuticals. Expected retaliatory measures from the EU could escalate tensions, further challenging Europe’s efforts to balance energy security with trade relations.