True. Certain things changed and improved but many remained the same. Having corrupt politicians doesn't help at all. We're caught in-between bigger players and we're just following along. As the OP stated, many countries are suffering from consequences of the actions by some "great powers".

It's true, but things are not as bad as 2015. Just not as good as 2007. In general things seem to be going in the right direction, cost of living excluded.