"There doesn't seem to be much that I would describe as progressive. ... in past, failed states, such as USSR, or East Germany."

I think certainly former communists were often unaware (or willfully ignored) the many repressive aspects of former Socialist States. However I am surprised I think that you see no progressive features in them.

Surely aid to third world liberation organisations, high quality education (especially in the sciences), a decline in religious superstition are all progressive?