What about the lightning network? Can this properly cover the need of "VISA tier" transaction volume while being decentralized enough to stay safe from global attackers, governments, triple letter agencies etc?

As far as other alternatives, from what I've seen the most interesting thing is the DAG one (byteball) but I haven't bought yet since I dont see it clear enough.

Also what are the chances that we ever see a global government? It's something I can't fathom, since there will always be some countries that don't agree. For example I see tax havens/privacy-friendly countries becoming bitcoin friendly and profit from it by doing so.