Issue LXXXIV | January 2025

GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

ISSUE #84


Dear Global Citizen,


We're pleased to send you this latest issue of Global Development Update (GDU)--a monthly bulletin intended to keep you up to date with the policies, events, and people that affect our planet as a whole. The publication of GDU for the last 5 years has depended entirely on small and medium-size contributions from readers like you. We take no government or corporate funding. We need your support. We would greatly appreciate your clicking the DONATE button and making a small contribution that can help sustain the work we do. 


Best Regards -- The Global Citizens Initiative Team

www.thrglobalcitizensinitiative.org

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Global Development Update is a monthly bulletin that informs readers about the events, ideas, and people that are shaping an emerging world community. It is produced by The Global Citizens' Initiative- a non-profit working to help develop a sustainable world community for all. Click below to sign up for a free Global Development Update subscription.

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FEATURED STORY

Crisis, Resistance & Power Shifts—What 2024 Taught Us


Human Rights Watch


Governments wavered and conflicts escalated—but civil society pushed back. From mass protests to legal battles, 2024 proved that people, not just politicians, are shaping the future. Here’s what you need to know as we head into 2025. Read on.

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THE ENVIRONMENT

How the World is Adapting to Climate Change


Carbon Brief


Faced with extreme weather, communities worldwide are implementing climate adaptation strategies, from sea walls to drought-resistant crops. A global study of nearly 1,700 cases reveals where and how people adapt—but research gaps leave parts of the picture incomplete. Read on.

POVERTY REDUCTION & INCOME INEQUALITY

Why Is Humanitarian Aid Funding Declining?


Context


Despite growing crises, global humanitarian aid saw a record shortfall in 2024, with only 43% of needed funds raised. Conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, donor cuts from Germany and the UK, and fears of U.S. budget reductions are straining resources. Food aid and support for women and children remain the hardest hit. Read on.

Cash Transfers Cut Tuberculosis Rates in Brazil


NPR


A groundbreaking study finds that Brazil’s Bolsa Familia program—providing cash aid to low-income families—dramatically reduces tuberculosis cases and deaths. By improving nutrition, living conditions, and healthcare access, the program underscores how poverty alleviation is a powerful public health tool. Read on.

TECHNOLOGY & CONNECTIVITY

Meta Moves Right With Content Moderation Shift


Popular Infomation


Mark Zuckerberg’s latest policy changes at Meta appear tailored to Trump’s MAGA base—relocating moderation teams to Texas, scrapping fact-checkers, and loosening restrictions on hate speech. Critics argue these moves cater to political pressure while undermining platform integrity. Read on.

GLOBAL GOVERNANCE

Global Economic Outlook 2025: Stability Amid Uncertainty


The Brookings Institution


Despite global growth stabilizing in 2024, rising inequality, sovereign debt concerns, and geopolitical tensions pose risks for 2025. Experts warn that shifting world order dynamics and climate crises could challenge economic resilience in the year ahead. Read on.

Global Cooperation in 2025 Stalls Amid Rising Tensions


WEF


The latest Global Cooperation Barometer finds that while trade, innovation, and climate collaboration show resilience, global peace and security have sharply declined. With geopolitical divisions hardening, leaders must rethink cooperation strategies to address mounting global crises. Read on.

GLOBAL PEACE & JUSTICE

Sudan Gets Its Day at the Security Council


Global Dispatches


With Russia’s veto blocking a ceasefire resolution, the UN faces mounting pressure to act on Sudan’s worsening crisis. As diplomatic efforts stall, questions remain about why Sudan continues to be overlooked. Read on.

Legal Alternatives to War Gain Momentum


World Federalist Movement


A global campaign is pushing for more substantial international courts to resolve conflicts without violence. Experts highlight the growing role of the ICJ and ICC in addressing human rights violations while advocating for reforms to expand their reach and enforcement. Read on.

January 2025 Global Citizen Blog

This month, we talk about:


  • Jimmy Carter’s optimism and legacy as a global citizen. READ ON.
  • Donald Trump’s controversial vision for acquiring Panama, Canada, and Greenland. READ ON.
  • How middleware could give users more control over what they see online. READ ON.

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