#Global Development

[reasonsforhope]

The global number of children not attending school has declined by nearly 40% since 2000

Note: Some definitions, though this varies by country and there does not appear to be a universally agreed-upon definition. Primary school = roughly 5 to 10 years old = elementary school Lower-secondary = roughly 11 to 14 years old = middle school Upper-secondary = roughly 14 to 18 years old = high school

"The chart shows the global number of children and adolescents who are not in school across primary and secondary education.

According to the most recent UNESCO data, this number has fallen from 390 million in 2000 to 244 million in 2023. That’s nearly a 40% reduction. The global population of children has grown during this time, making the decrease in out-of-school children even more significant.

Many more children are getting an opportunity to learn now than 20 years ago, but progress has stagnated in the last five years. [Note: A significant amount of that no doubt due to the pandemic.]

Historically, more girls than boys were out of school, but this gap has nearly closed. Unfortunately, the global aggregate data split by gender has not been updated by UNESCO since 2019. This makes it hard to track recent progress between boys and girls."

-via Our World in Data, July 29, 2024

[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #22

June 7-14 2024

Vice-President Harris announced that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is moving to remove medical debt for people's credit score. This move will improve the credit rating of 15 million Americans. Millions of Americans struggling with debt from medical expenses can't get approved for a loan for a car, to start a small business or buy a home. The new rule will improve credit scores by an average of 20 points and lead to 22,000 additional mortgages being approved every year. This comes on top of efforts by the Biden Administration to buy up and forgive medical debt. Through money in the American Rescue Plan $7 billion dollars of medical debt will be forgiven by the end of 2026. To date state and local governments have used ARP funds to buy up and forgive the debt of 3 million Americans and counting.

The EPA, Department of Agriculture, and FDA announced a joint "National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics". The Strategy aimed to cut food waste by 50% by 2030. Currently 24% of municipal solid waste in landfills is food waste, and food waste accounts for 58% of methane emissions from landfills roughly the green house gas emissions of 60 coal-fired power plants every year. This connects to $200 million the EPA already has invested in recycling, the largest investment in recycling by the federal government in 30 years. The average American family loses $1,500 ever year in spoiled food, and the strategy through better labeling, packaging, and education hopes to save people money and reduce hunger as well as the environmental impact.

President Biden signed with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy a ten-year US-Ukraine Security Agreement. The Agreement is aimed at helping Ukraine win the war against Russia, as well as help Ukraine meet the standards it will have to be ready for EU and NATO memberships. President Biden also spearheaded efforts at the G7 meeting to secure $50 billion for Ukraine from the 7 top economic nations.

HHS announced $500 million for the development of new non-injection vaccines against Covid. The money is part of Project NextGen a $5 billion program to accelerate and streamline new Covid vaccines and treatments. The investment announced this week will support a clinical trial of 10,000 people testing a vaccine in pill form. It's also supporting two vaccines administered as nasal sprays that are in earlier stages of development. The government hopes that break throughs in non-needle based vaccines for Covid might be applied to other vaccinations thus making vaccines more widely available and more easily administered.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced $404 million in additional humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank and the region. This brings the total invested by the Biden administration in the Palestinians to $1.8 billion since taking office, over $600 million since the war started in October 2023. The money will focus on safe drinking water, health care, protection, education, shelter, and psychosocial support.

The Department of the Interior announced $142 million for drought resilience and boosting water supplies. The funding will provide about 40,000 acre-feet of annual recycled water, enough to support more than 160,000 people a year. It's funding water recycling programs in California, Hawaii, Kansas, Nevada and Texas. It's also supporting 4 water desalination projects in Southern California. Desalination is proving to be an important tool used by countries with limited freshwater.

President Biden took the lead at the G7 on the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment. The PGI is a global program to connect the developing world to investment in its infrastructure from the G7 nations. So far the US has invested $40 billion into the program with a goal of $200 billion by 2027. The G7 overall plans on $600 billion by 2027. There has been heavy investment in the Lobito Corridor, an economic zone that runs from Angola, through the Democratic Republic of Congo, to Zambia, the PGI has helped connect the 3 nations by rail allowing land locked Zambia and largely landlocked DRC access Angolan ports. The PGI also is investing in a $900 million solar farm in Angola. The PGI got a $5 billion dollar investment from Microsoft aimed at expanding digital access in Kenya, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The PGI's bold vision is to connect Africa and the Indian Ocean region economically through rail and transportation link as well as boost greener economic growth in the developing world and bring developing nations on-line.

[omegaphilosophia]

The Philosophy of Economic Development

Economic development refers to the process through which a country or region improves its economic, social, and political well-being. It goes beyond mere economic growth, focusing on broader improvements such as quality of life, equitable access to resources, and sustainability. The philosophy of economic development involves the exploration of values, principles, and strategies that guide efforts to elevate living standards, reduce inequality, and promote social justice.

Core Principles of Economic Development

Human Well-being and Quality of Life Economic development is not just about increasing wealth, but improving the overall quality of life. This involves not only economic metrics like income and employment but also health, education, access to basic services, and environmental sustainability.

Sustainability Sustainable economic development ensures that current growth does not come at the expense of future generations. This encompasses responsible resource management, environmental protection, and long-term social stability.

Equity and Inclusiveness Development should aim to reduce inequality, ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared equitably among all segments of society. This often includes addressing poverty, gender inequality, and regional disparities.

Freedom and Empowerment The philosophy of economic development values individuals’ freedom to choose their path in life. This involves creating an environment where people can access opportunities, make decisions, and have control over their economic futures.

Participation and Democracy Genuine development is participatory and involves empowering local communities. Democratic governance structures enable people to take part in the decisions that affect their lives, ensuring that development initiatives reflect local needs and aspirations.

Philosophical Approaches to Economic Development

Neoliberalism Neoliberal thinkers advocate for minimal state intervention in the economy, believing that market forces, competition, and private enterprise lead to more efficient allocation of resources. They argue that deregulation, privatization, and free trade stimulate economic growth and improve living standards.

Structuralism Structuralist approaches, rooted in the works of economists like Raul Prebisch, argue that development requires transforming the economic structure of a society. This may involve diversifying economies away from primary exports and fostering industrialization, technology, and education. Structuralism also advocates for addressing historical inequalities between developed and developing nations.

Dependency Theory Dependency theory critiques the global economic system, arguing that poorer nations remain economically dependent on wealthier ones. It asserts that economic development cannot occur without addressing global inequality and suggests that developing countries should resist exploitative international systems and focus on self-sufficiency.

Capabilities Approach Developed by philosophers like Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum, the capabilities approach focuses on expanding individuals' abilities to achieve their well-being. Development is seen not just as economic output but as the expansion of freedoms, opportunities, and capacities to lead a fulfilling life.

Human Development and Well-being Human development, as championed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), emphasizes improving people’s lives through access to health, education, and economic opportunities. It expands the concept of development beyond GDP growth, focusing on broader human development indicators.

Ethical Considerations in Economic Development

Justice and Fairness Economic development often raises ethical questions about fairness and justice. How do we ensure that the fruits of development reach the most marginalized? Are the benefits of growth distributed equitably?

Cultural Sensitivity Globalization and development may clash with local traditions and ways of life. How can development policies respect cultural diversity while promoting progress?

Environmental Responsibility The growth that drives economic development can often harm the environment. Ethical economic development seeks to balance economic success with ecological sustainability, protecting ecosystems and promoting green technology.

Rights-Based Development Some philosophies assert that economic development should be driven by respect for human rights, focusing on the right to work, access to education, the right to food, and social security. Rights-based frameworks aim to ensure that development benefits all people, particularly the most disadvantaged.

Challenges and Criticisms

Economic Inequality While economic development can lead to prosperity, it often exacerbates social inequality. The gap between the rich and poor, both within nations and globally, remains a persistent challenge in achieving truly inclusive development.

Sustainability Issues Rapid economic development can result in environmental degradation, depletion of natural resources, and long-term ecological damage. The challenge lies in balancing immediate economic gains with the need for environmental stewardship.

Cultural Imperialism Economic development often brings Western-style capitalism, technology, and values into non-Western societies, leading to criticisms of cultural imperialism. These critiques question whether true development is possible without compromising cultural identity.

Political Corruption and Mismanagement In many countries, political corruption, ineffective governance, and the lack of infrastructure can hinder the success of economic development initiatives. Ensuring transparent, accountable leadership is essential for sustainable progress.

Conclusion

The philosophy of economic development encompasses diverse theories and practices aimed at improving the well-being of individuals and societies. At its core, it recognizes that economic growth is not an end in itself but a means to greater human flourishing. By addressing the ethical, social, and environmental dimensions of development, philosophers and policymakers alike strive to create an equitable, just, and sustainable future for all.

[h1p3rn0v4]

La proporción del mundo sumida en conflictos ha crecido un 65% –equivalente a casi el doble del tamaño de la India– en los últimos tres años, según un nuevo informe.

Ucrania, Myanmar, Oriente Medio y un "corredor de conflictos" alrededor de la región africana del Sahel han visto cómo las guerras y los disturbios se extendían e intensificaban desde 2021, según el último Índice de Intensidad de Conflictos (CII) , publicado por los analistas de riesgos Verisk Maplecroft.

Si bien hubo una pausa en los niveles de conflicto a nivel mundial durante la pandemia de Covid-19, los expertos dicen que ha habido una tendencia creciente de violencia durante al menos una década, mientras que muchas crisis de larga data continúan sin cesar .

[pritivora26]

https://www.deepanshugahlaut.com/blog/setup-an-offshore-development-center-in-india/

Foreign companies choose India as their main operating base. Companies understand that India offers quality workforce capabilities alongside cost-effective services with sturdy facilities. The Indian government implements strategies to attract additional Western businesses within country borders with the goal to boost the GDP. Following our step-by-step guidelines in our blog will enable you to establish an ODC center which you can start working from right away. Read more.

[ansautism]

DSM-5-TR Criteria for Global Developmental Delay

"This diagnosis is reserved for individuals under the age of 5 years when the clinical severity cannot be reliably assessed during early childhood. This category is diagnosed when an individual fails to meet expected developmental milestones in several areas of intellectual functioning, including children who are too young to participate in standardized testing. This category requires reassessment after a period of time."

-DSM 5 TR, Global Developmental Delay, under the category of Neurodevelopmental Disorders

[reasonsforhope]

"A net-zero power system is closer than we think.

New research, published by RMI, indicates that an exponential surge in renewable energy deployment is outpacing the International Energy Agency’s most ambitious net-zero predictions for 2030. 

That’s right: Surging solar, wind, and battery capacity is now in-line with net-zero scenarios. 

“For the first time, we can, with hand on heart, say that we are potentially on the path to net zero,” Kingsmill Bond, Senior Principal at RMI, said. “We need to make sure that we continue to drive change, but there is a path and we are on it.”

And that’s really good news.

Exponential growth in renewable energy has put the global electricity system at a tipping point. What was once seen as a wildly daunting task — transitioning away from fossil fuels — is now happening at a faster pace every year. 

Based on this new research, conducted in partnership with the Bezos Earth Fund, RMI projects that solar and wind will supply over a third of all global electricity by 2030, up from about 12% today, which would surpass recent calls for a tripling of total renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade. 

Global progress in the renewable energy sector

China and Europe have been leading the way in clean energy generation, but the deployment of renewable energy has also been widely distributed across the Middle East and Africa. 

Research from Systems Change Lab shows that eight countries (Uruguay, Denmark, Lithuania, Namibia, Netherlands, Palestine, Jordan, and Chile) have already grown solar and wind power faster than what is needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C, proving that a swift switch to renewable energy is not only feasible — it’s entirely achievable. 

In order to make that switch, globally, wind and solar need to grow from 12% to 41% by 2030. Denmark, Uruguay, and Lithuania have already achieved that increase in the span of eight years.

Meanwhile, Namibia, the Netherlands, Palestine, Jordan, and Chile have grown solar and wind energy at sufficient rates for five years...

The economic impact of climate progress

Not only is this an exciting and unprecedented development for the health of the environment, but this rapid transition to clean energy includes widespread benefits, like jobs growth, more secure supply chains, and reductions in energy price inflation. 

This progress spans both developing and developed countries, all driven to accelerate renewables for a number of different reasons: adopting smart and effective policies, maintaining political commitments, lowering the costs of renewable energy, and improving energy security. 

And with exponential growth of clean energy means sharp declines in prices. This puts fossil fuels at a higher, uncompetitive cost — both financially and figuratively. 

RMI suggests that solar energy is already the cheapest form of electricity in history — and will likely halve in price by 2030, falling as low as $20/MWh in the coming years. This follows previous trends: solar and battery costs have declined 80% between 2012 and 2022, and offshore wind costs are down 73%."

-via Good Good Good, July 12, 2023

Let me repeat that:

For the first time in history, we are on an actual, provably achievable path to net zero emissions

[tomatisaustralia]

Understanding Global Developmental Delays in Australian Children

Introduction

Every child develops at their own pace, reaching milestones in motor skills, communication, and cognition at different times. While slight variations in development are normal, some children experience delays across multiple areas, which may indicate a condition known as global developmental delay (GDD). Identifying and addressing GDD early can help children develop essential skills and improve their quality of life.

Delays in Global Development Among Australian Children

Even though children typically progress through developmental stages at a similar rate, one child may reach a milestone earlier than another. A global developmental delay (GDD) occurs when a child faces difficulties across multiple developmental domains. This term broadly refers to any delay in a child’s development from birth to age 18.

Children with GDD often experience challenges in several key areas, including motor skills, speech and language, cognitive abilities, social interactions, and leisure activities.

As a result, they may appear younger or less developed than their peers. Various factors, such as cerebral palsy, genetic disorders, complications during pregnancy, learning difficulties, and intellectual disabilities, can contribute to long-term developmental delays.

Summary

Global developmental delay affects children in multiple areas of growth, making early detection and intervention essential. Understanding its causes and impact can help parents seek appropriate support for their child’s needs.

If you are looking for treatment for global developmental delay, visit Tomatis® Method Australia to explore effective therapeutic solutions.

[alyfoxxxen]

The global growth rate for mobile internet subscribers has stalled - Rest of World

[h1p3rn0v4]

Tras cuatro años en la “escuela”, Martínez cuenta que se vio obligada a convertirse en auxiliar numeraria , es decir, en empleadas domésticas del Opus Dei que tenían que dedicarse a cocinar y limpiar para los mayores y los sacerdotes, mientras vivían en celibato.

A pesar de querer estudiar psicología, dice que le dijeron que: “No había otra opción para mí, que era demasiado pobre, que no tenía hombre con quien casarme; que si no me unía, mi familia estaría condenada al infierno”.

[jasminewilson143]

Bill Gates’ Remarks on India as a "Laboratory" Spark Debate

Bill Gates’ Remarks on India as a “Laboratory” Spark Debate Bill Gates, the billionaire philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft, has found himself at the center of a controversy after a recent comment he made during a podcast with Reid Hoffman. Gates referred to India as a “kind of laboratory to try things,” a remark that quickly went viral and triggered outrage on social media platforms,…