Gretta - Time's Person of the Year ..., page-12

It's probably worth remembering that the criteria for being selected Person of the Year isn't being the best, or brightest or anything. It's the person who had the most influence. This is why Hitler and Stalin were selected, and computers (1982), Ghandi (1930) and Wallis Simpson (1936).

Essentially, the thing is for "Who was newsworthy this year?"

Love her or hate her, Greta Thunberg has certainly been an influence this year!