https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-in-global-development--5837438
In each episode, hosts Adva Saldinger, David Ainsworth, and Rumbi Chakamba break down major headlines and invite members of the Devex newsroom to share their expert analysis.

Get up-to-date on news regarding foreign aid, humanitarian crises, the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals, finance, philanthropy, climate, food systems, global health, and stay informed on the latest trends and policy changes shaping global development.

Episodes are published every Friday and can also be watched on YouTube.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel: 
https://www.youtube.com/@devex

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>enNewsCopyright Devexhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/71e7688b8237c333a8d8a3205a7a0671.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-in-global-development--5837438Wed, 29 Jul 2026 19:07:18 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentDevexeditorial@devex.comDive into the week's most critical global development news with the This Week in Global Development podcast.  In each episode, hosts Adva Saldinger, David Ainsworth, and Rumbi Chakamba break down major headlines and invite members of the Devex...
In each episode, hosts Adva Saldinger, David Ainsworth, and Rumbi Chakamba break down major headlines and invite members of the Devex newsroom to share their expert analysis.

Get up-to-date on news regarding foreign aid, humanitarian crises, the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals, finance, philanthropy, climate, food systems, global health, and stay informed on the latest trends and policy changes shaping global development.

Episodes are published every Friday and can also be watched on YouTube.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel: 
https://www.youtube.com/@devex

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tracking-the-real-world-impacts-of-us-foreign-aid-cuts--73230365This week, we discuss The Aid Report, a project supported by a media grant from the Gates Foundation to track the real-world impacts of U.S. foreign aid cuts. 

Over the past couple of months, the initiative has documented more than 1,000 verified impacts across multiple countries and sectors. 

We examine the major trends and surprises that emerged, discuss what lessons policymakers and donors can take away, and explore the questions that still remain unanswered.

To unpack these findings, Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Kelli Rogers and Rashad Nimr for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

The podcast is taking a short break next week. We'll be back with a new episode the following week.

Check out Perdure, a member of the Devex Podcast Network, via the link below:
https://open.spotify.com/show/7CMiGygkWqhtoYfXVLuOQM?si=a07177387e314420&nd=1&dlsi=8866940a467843b4]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73230365Wed, 29 Jul 2026 08:25:09 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we discuss https://www.theaidreport.us/, a project supported by a media grant from the https://www.devex.com/organizations/gates-foundation-44525 to track the real-world impacts of U.S. foreign aid cuts.  Over the past couple of months,...This week, we discuss The Aid Report, a project supported by a media grant from the Gates Foundation to track the real-world impacts of U.S. foreign aid cuts. 

Over the past couple of months, the initiative has documented more than 1,000 verified impacts across multiple countries and sectors. 

We examine the major trends and surprises that emerged, discuss what lessons policymakers and donors can take away, and explore the questions that still remain unanswered.

To unpack these findings, Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Kelli Rogers and Rashad Nimr for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

The podcast is taking a short break next week. We'll be back with a new episode the following week.

Check out Perdure, a member of the Devex Podcast Network, via the link below:
https://open.spotify.com/show/7CMiGygkWqhtoYfXVLuOQM?si=a07177387e314420&nd=1&dlsi=8866940a467843b4]]>2185aid,development,report,usafalse156fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-new-era-of-us-and-european-foreign-assistance--73103455This week we look back at the last 18 months of U.S. foreign assistance — a period defined by the dismantling of USAID and the absorption of foreign aid strategy into the State Department. We break down the types of initiatives the Trump administration is prioritizing and where the funding is flowing.

On the other side of the Atlantic, the European Union is currently in the process of negotiating the bloc’s next seven-year budget. The new financial framework could mark a turning point for European aid, formalizing a shift from development-first spending toward an approach that increasingly serves member states’ geopolitical and economic interests.

To dig into these stories and others, Adva Saldinger sits down with Michael Igoe and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Redeem your Devex Pro discount:
https://www.devex.com/upgrade/payment?package_short_name=PRO&payment_page_permalink=pro-discount-fortypercent&utm_medium=link&utm_source=newswire&utm_campaign=pro_week_2026]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73103455Wed, 22 Jul 2026 09:14:03 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we look back at the https://www.devex.com/news/the-state-department-and-aid-the-story-so-far-shorthand-112926 — a period defined by the dismantling of...This week we look back at the last 18 months of U.S. foreign assistance — a period defined by the dismantling of USAID and the absorption of foreign aid strategy into the State Department. We break down the types of initiatives the Trump administration is prioritizing and where the funding is flowing.

On the other side of the Atlantic, the European Union is currently in the process of negotiating the bloc’s next seven-year budget. The new financial framework could mark a turning point for European aid, formalizing a shift from development-first spending toward an approach that increasingly serves member states’ geopolitical and economic interests.

To dig into these stories and others, Adva Saldinger sits down with Michael Igoe and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Redeem your Devex Pro discount:
https://www.devex.com/upgrade/payment?package_short_name=PRO&payment_page_permalink=pro-discount-fortypercent&utm_medium=link&utm_source=newswire&utm_campaign=pro_week_2026]]>1821aid,development,eu,europe,usaidfalse155fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/turning-world-cup-hype-into-impact-and-governing-ai-for-good--73011415With the FIFA World Cup entering its final week, we explore how NGOs operating in participating nations can leverage the tournament’s spotlight to advance their work. While tournament hype is notoriously fleeting, we break down how NGOs can translate a short-term spike in curiosity into sustained long-term impact.

We also discuss our key takeaways from the United Nations’ Global Dialogue for AI Governance and the International Telecommunication Union’s AI for Good Summit, both of which we covered on the ground in Geneva, Switzerland. From the absence of major AI labs to how lower- and middle-income countries are demanding an equal voice in global tech regulation, we explore why the development sector must stop leaving AI’s future to technologists alone.

To dig into these stories and others, David Ainsworth sits down with Catherine Cheney and Thomas Cserep for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

In the sponsored segment of the podcast, hosted in partnership with The Pfizer Foundation, Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Freddy Nkosi, Senior Director of Global Programs for West and Central Africa & DRC Country Director at VillageReach. They explore how locally-led supply chains and data-informed approaches are helping countries, such as the DRC and Cameroon, address last-mile challenges, supporting efforts to ensure vaccines reach remote and underserved communities when and where they are needed.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73011415Thu, 16 Jul 2026 08:43:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith the FIFA World Cup entering its final week, we explore how NGOs operating in participating nations https://www.devex.com/news/devex-newswire-g-o-a-l-how-the-fifa-world-cup-scores-for-development-112936 to advance their work. While tournament hype...With the FIFA World Cup entering its final week, we explore how NGOs operating in participating nations can leverage the tournament’s spotlight to advance their work. While tournament hype is notoriously fleeting, we break down how NGOs can translate a short-term spike in curiosity into sustained long-term impact.

We also discuss our key takeaways from the United Nations’ Global Dialogue for AI Governance and the International Telecommunication Union’s AI for Good Summit, both of which we covered on the ground in Geneva, Switzerland. From the absence of major AI labs to how lower- and middle-income countries are demanding an equal voice in global tech regulation, we explore why the development sector must stop leaving AI’s future to technologists alone.

To dig into these stories and others, David Ainsworth sits down with Catherine Cheney and Thomas Cserep for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

In the sponsored segment of the podcast, hosted in partnership with The Pfizer Foundation, Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Freddy Nkosi, Senior Director of Global Programs for West and Central Africa & DRC Country Director at VillageReach. They explore how locally-led supply chains and data-informed approaches are helping countries, such as the DRC and Cameroon, address last-mile challenges, supporting efforts to ensure vaccines reach remote and underserved communities when and where they are needed.

]]>1921ai,development,football,soccer,technology,wc26false154fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/uncertainty-over-unaids-future-and-avoiding-sexual-abuse-in-ebola-response--72883116With uncertainty lingering over its future, we discuss a new UNAIDS interim report outlining potential pathways forward — including further downsizing the secretariat, turning it into a U.N.-hosted hub, or merging it with another health entity. During the conversation, we explore UNAIDS’ alternative suggestions, as well as how this imminent transition fits into the wider restructuring of the global health architecture.

As the Ebola emergency continues across eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, responders are facing a lack of community trust. During the 2018–2020 outbreak of the disease, aid workers subjected the locals to widespread sexual abuse and exploitation. We discuss whether the humanitarian sector is doing enough to prevent history from repeating itself.

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with senior reporters Jenny Lei Ravelo and Sara Jerving for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to Devex CheckUp here:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/devex-checkup]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72883116Thu, 09 Jul 2026 07:50:39 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith uncertainty lingering over its future, we discuss a https://www.devex.com/news/merger-hub-or-slimmer-secretariat-what-s-next-for-unaids-112840 — including further downsizing the secretariat, turning it into a U.N.-hosted hub, or merging it with...With uncertainty lingering over its future, we discuss a new UNAIDS interim report outlining potential pathways forward — including further downsizing the secretariat, turning it into a U.N.-hosted hub, or merging it with another health entity. During the conversation, we explore UNAIDS’ alternative suggestions, as well as how this imminent transition fits into the wider restructuring of the global health architecture.

As the Ebola emergency continues across eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, responders are facing a lack of community trust. During the 2018–2020 outbreak of the disease, aid workers subjected the locals to widespread sexual abuse and exploitation. We discuss whether the humanitarian sector is doing enough to prevent history from repeating itself.

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with senior reporters Jenny Lei Ravelo and Sara Jerving for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to Devex CheckUp here:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/devex-checkup]]>2028aid,development,ebola,health,unaidsfalse153fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/us-aid-leadership-changes-and-a-controversial-un-merger--72786907This week we discuss Jeremy Lewin’s departure from the U.S. State Department’s foreign aid bureau to the White House. His transition to the National Security Council ends a controversial leadership marked by the retreat of the U.S. from its long-held role as the world’s leading bilateral donor. He is expected to be replaced by Andrew Veprek, who has pushed immigration and refugee restrictions at the State Department. 

As the United Nations continues to face budgetary constraints, we also analyze the potential merger of two major U.N. development agencies: the U.N. Development Programme, or UNDP, and UNOPS. While Secretary-General António Guterres sees this ambitious development reform as a way to overcome a yawning funding gap, UNDP chief Alexander De Croo and UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva have butted heads over their vastly different visions for the future.

During the conversation we also discuss our key takeaways from the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, including a new initiative that is designed to tackle debt, trade, climate finance, and multilateral reform to help reset the terms of global cooperation.
To dig into these stories and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with U.N. correspondent Colum Lynch and reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

How can climate and nature investments move from ambition to action?

In the sponsored segment of the episode, recorded live at Devex Impact House during London Climate Action Week, Kate Warren, Executive Editor and Executive Vice President at Devex, speaks with Waqas Batley, Senior Director, Conservation and Climate Finance Policy at The Nature Conservancy.

Together, they explore how policy advocacy can help countries develop the plans, financial roadmaps, and regulatory systems needed to attract investment in nature and climate. The conversation looks at why nature should be understood as economic infrastructure, what finance ministries can do to send clearer signals to investors, and how approaches such as country platforms can help turn national climate and biodiversity priorities into investable pipelines.

Sign up to Devex Invested:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/invested
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72786907Thu, 02 Jul 2026 12:41:55 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we discuss https://www.devex.com/news/state-department-s-foreign-aid-chief-heads-to-the-white-house-112830 from the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-department-of-state-dos-23842’s foreign aid bureau to the White House. His...This week we discuss Jeremy Lewin’s departure from the U.S. State Department’s foreign aid bureau to the White House. His transition to the National Security Council ends a controversial leadership marked by the retreat of the U.S. from its long-held role as the world’s leading bilateral donor. He is expected to be replaced by Andrew Veprek, who has pushed immigration and refugee restrictions at the State Department. 

As the United Nations continues to face budgetary constraints, we also analyze the potential merger of two major U.N. development agencies: the U.N. Development Programme, or UNDP, and UNOPS. While Secretary-General António Guterres sees this ambitious development reform as a way to overcome a yawning funding gap, UNDP chief Alexander De Croo and UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva have butted heads over their vastly different visions for the future.

During the conversation we also discuss our key takeaways from the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, including a new initiative that is designed to tackle debt, trade, climate finance, and multilateral reform to help reset the terms of global cooperation.
To dig into these stories and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with U.N. correspondent Colum Lynch and reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

How can climate and nature investments move from ambition to action?

In the sponsored segment of the episode, recorded live at Devex Impact House during London Climate Action Week, Kate Warren, Executive Editor and Executive Vice President at Devex, speaks with Waqas Batley, Senior Director, Conservation and Climate Finance Policy at The Nature Conservancy.

Together, they explore how policy advocacy can help countries develop the plans, financial roadmaps, and regulatory systems needed to attract investment in nature and climate. The conversation looks at why nature should be understood as economic infrastructure, what finance ministries can do to send clearer signals to investors, and how approaches such as country platforms can help turn national climate and biodiversity priorities into investable pipelines.

Sign up to Devex Invested:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/invested
]]>2066aid,climate,development,hamburg,lewin,mergerfalse152fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-live-from-hamburg-can-governments-still-invest-in-the-future--72768314This special two-part edition of This Week in Global Development comes to you from the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, where leaders from across development, government, business and civil society gather to debate the big questions facing the global economy — from climate and debt to security, trade, and the future of international cooperation.

In part one, Devex Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie speaks with Achim Steiner, chair of the Hamburg Sustainability Conference and former administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, to explore a question at the heart of today’s geopolitical moment: Are governments preparing for the wrong kinds of threats? 

As defense budgets climb around the world, Steiner tells Ayenat that countries risk neglecting the investments that actually make societies more secure, from climate resilience and affordable clean energy to digital infrastructure. He also explains why sustainability should be seen not as a sacrifice, but as an opportunity to strengthen economies, lower costs, and build resilience.

In part two, Ayenat speaks with Sierra Leone Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who talks about “the politics of painful choices” — the difficult trade-offs governments face when debt burdens, aid cuts, and external shocks leave little room for long-term investment. He reflects on balancing immediate needs with climate action, why he believes countries need new tools to absorb global shocks, and what sustainability looks like from the perspective of a government under severe fiscal pressure.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72768314Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:31:47 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis special two-part edition of This Week in Global Development comes to you from the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, where leaders from across development, government, business and civil society gather to debate the big questions facing the...This special two-part edition of This Week in Global Development comes to you from the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, where leaders from across development, government, business and civil society gather to debate the big questions facing the global economy — from climate and debt to security, trade, and the future of international cooperation.

In part one, Devex Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie speaks with Achim Steiner, chair of the Hamburg Sustainability Conference and former administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, to explore a question at the heart of today’s geopolitical moment: Are governments preparing for the wrong kinds of threats? 

As defense budgets climb around the world, Steiner tells Ayenat that countries risk neglecting the investments that actually make societies more secure, from climate resilience and affordable clean energy to digital infrastructure. He also explains why sustainability should be seen not as a sacrifice, but as an opportunity to strengthen economies, lower costs, and build resilience.

In part two, Ayenat speaks with Sierra Leone Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who talks about “the politics of painful choices” — the difficult trade-offs governments face when debt burdens, aid cuts, and external shocks leave little room for long-term investment. He reflects on balancing immediate needs with climate action, why he believes countries need new tools to absorb global shocks, and what sustainability looks like from the perspective of a government under severe fiscal pressure.]]>4080climate,conference,development,hamburg,hsc26,sustainabilityfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-the-blueprint-for-better-lung-cancer-screening--72759015
After a decade of data, the results are clear: earlier diagnoses are being seen in Kentucky, and current efforts are seeking a similar impact in Mississippi and Nevada. But the real story is how these results were achieved. Rather than imposing top-down protocols, QUILS™ works by equipping local community programs with data-informed tools, continuous feedback, and practice support — helping local clinics serve as trusted access points for lung cancer screening in their communities.

The conversation tackles the hardest part of scaling any screening program: human behavior. Lung cancer carries a unique stigma rooted in decades of anti-smoking messaging, and that stigma remains a powerful barrier, discouraging eligible patients from coming forward. The QUILS™ response is to replace shame and fear with empathy and hope, building person-centered care directly into clinical workflows so the burden does not fall on patients alone.

For global health leaders, the implications are clear: The barriers Kentucky faced — rural isolation, underresourced systems, cultural mistrust — are not unique to one region. They exist everywhere. And the infrastructure built to overcome them may be exactly what the world needs.

Visit Strengthening Care Systems — a series raising awareness of the scale of the global lung cancer burden and the systems-level changes required to address it: https://pages.devex.com/strengtheningcaresystems.html]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72759015Tue, 30 Jun 2026 15:58:45 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special edition of the This Week in Global Development podcast, produced in partnership with the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation, Devex co-founder and Executive Vice President Alan Robbins sits down with three architects of Kentucky’s...
After a decade of data, the results are clear: earlier diagnoses are being seen in Kentucky, and current efforts are seeking a similar impact in Mississippi and Nevada. But the real story is how these results were achieved. Rather than imposing top-down protocols, QUILS™ works by equipping local community programs with data-informed tools, continuous feedback, and practice support — helping local clinics serve as trusted access points for lung cancer screening in their communities.

The conversation tackles the hardest part of scaling any screening program: human behavior. Lung cancer carries a unique stigma rooted in decades of anti-smoking messaging, and that stigma remains a powerful barrier, discouraging eligible patients from coming forward. The QUILS™ response is to replace shame and fear with empathy and hope, building person-centered care directly into clinical workflows so the burden does not fall on patients alone.

For global health leaders, the implications are clear: The barriers Kentucky faced — rural isolation, underresourced systems, cultural mistrust — are not unique to one region. They exist everywhere. And the infrastructure built to overcome them may be exactly what the world needs.

Visit Strengthening Care Systems — a series raising awareness of the scale of the global lung cancer burden and the systems-level changes required to address it: https://pages.devex.com/strengtheningcaresystems.html]]>1838falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/live-from-london-climate-action-week--72690090As London Climate Action Week gets into full swing, we break down the key talking points from the conference so far. With the city in the midst of a scorching heat wave, the discussion of climate change feels even more urgent than usual. 

We explore the transactional landscape that developing nations face, where much-needed capital is increasingly tied to the private sector.

Beyond the balance sheets, one of the current tensions is the collision between green ambitions and economic survival. From the push for rapid electrification to the rollout of Europe’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, African nations are being forced to thread a near-impossible needle: industrializing their economies while navigating low-carbon mandates.

Complicating matters is a growing communications crisis within the sector itself. To secure funding and dodge political blowback, many NGOs are camouflaging their climate work under the banners of health, food, or energy security. However, driving the climate conversation underground risks leaving the communities most vulnerable to extreme weather out of the spotlight when they need it most.

To bring you the latest from London Climate Action Week, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with global development reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters:
https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72690090Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:30:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs London Climate Action Week gets into full swing, we break down the key talking points from the conference so far. With the city in the midst of a scorching heat wave, the discussion of climate change feels even more urgent than usual.  We explore...As London Climate Action Week gets into full swing, we break down the key talking points from the conference so far. With the city in the midst of a scorching heat wave, the discussion of climate change feels even more urgent than usual. 

We explore the transactional landscape that developing nations face, where much-needed capital is increasingly tied to the private sector.

Beyond the balance sheets, one of the current tensions is the collision between green ambitions and economic survival. From the push for rapid electrification to the rollout of Europe’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, African nations are being forced to thread a near-impossible needle: industrializing their economies while navigating low-carbon mandates.

Complicating matters is a growing communications crisis within the sector itself. To secure funding and dodge political blowback, many NGOs are camouflaging their climate work under the banners of health, food, or energy security. However, driving the climate conversation underground risks leaving the communities most vulnerable to extreme weather out of the spotlight when they need it most.

To bring you the latest from London Climate Action Week, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with global development reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters:
https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>1741adaptation,climate,development,londonfalse151fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fact-checking-us-aid-claims-as-the-state-department-continues-to-hire--72575151In our landmark 150th episode, we discuss a common theme in global development over the past 18 months: the state of U.S. foreign aid. We’re seeing the State Department steadily replenish its workforce, with dozens of open roles across the agency’s global health, international aid, and disaster response bureaus.

On the topic of U.S. foreign assistance, last week Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed the U.S. remains the world's top aid provider "by far" despite the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development. While provisional figures from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development indicate that Germany has officially overtaken the U.S. for the top spot, we find that the reality is more complex as the validity of the claim hinges entirely on how "aid" is defined. We break down the data and the nuance behind the figures.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for episode number 150 of our weekly podcast series.

Register for Devex Impact House @ London Climate Action Week here:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-london-climate-action-week.html]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72575151Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:24:31 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn our landmark 150th episode, we discuss a common theme in global development over the past 18 months: the state of U.S. foreign aid. We’re seeing the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-department-of-state-dos-23842 steadily...In our landmark 150th episode, we discuss a common theme in global development over the past 18 months: the state of U.S. foreign aid. We’re seeing the State Department steadily replenish its workforce, with dozens of open roles across the agency’s global health, international aid, and disaster response bureaus.

On the topic of U.S. foreign assistance, last week Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed the U.S. remains the world's top aid provider "by far" despite the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development. While provisional figures from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development indicate that Germany has officially overtaken the U.S. for the top spot, we find that the reality is more complex as the validity of the claim hinges entirely on how "aid" is defined. We break down the data and the nuance behind the figures.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for episode number 150 of our weekly podcast series.

Register for Devex Impact House @ London Climate Action Week here:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-london-climate-action-week.html]]>1757aid,development,funding,rubio,usa,usaidfalse150fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/development-banks-pivot-strategies-as-global-volatility-deepens--72473404At this year’s annual meeting of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Riga, Latvia, discussions centered on a critical structural shift: what development finance should look like in an age of persistent volatility. Ukraine is increasingly shaping the answer, as the bank’s sustained financing during the war emerges as a potential blueprint for future conflicts.

We were also on the ground for the World Bank Fragility Forum, an event uniting global stakeholders to address the challenges of operating in areas experiencing fragility, conflict, and violence. The deteriorating situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo emerged as a central discussion point. Highlighting the complexity of aid delivery in active conflict zones, the governor of the DRC’s South Kivu province issued a stark call to withhold funding for development projects until baseline peace and stability are secured.

Examining the Trump administration’s “America First” foreign policy, we also contemplate how to ensure that domestic resource mobilization becomes an effective way to increase development finance.

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to Devex Invested, our free, semiweekly newsletter bringing you the insider brief on business, finance, and the SDGs:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/invested
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72473404Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:25:52 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAt this year’s annual meeting of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/european-bank-for-reconstruction-and-development-ebrd-20085 in Riga, Latvia, discussions...At this year’s annual meeting of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Riga, Latvia, discussions centered on a critical structural shift: what development finance should look like in an age of persistent volatility. Ukraine is increasingly shaping the answer, as the bank’s sustained financing during the war emerges as a potential blueprint for future conflicts.

We were also on the ground for the World Bank Fragility Forum, an event uniting global stakeholders to address the challenges of operating in areas experiencing fragility, conflict, and violence. The deteriorating situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo emerged as a central discussion point. Highlighting the complexity of aid delivery in active conflict zones, the governor of the DRC’s South Kivu province issued a stark call to withhold funding for development projects until baseline peace and stability are secured.

Examining the Trump administration’s “America First” foreign policy, we also contemplate how to ensure that domestic resource mobilization becomes an effective way to increase development finance.

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to Devex Invested, our free, semiweekly newsletter bringing you the insider brief on business, finance, and the SDGs:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/invested
]]>1804banks,conflict,development,drc,ebrd,finance,fragility,latvia,trump,ukrainefalse149fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-latest-on-the-ebola-outbreak-response--72339496This week, we unpack the latest on the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. With no approved vaccines or treatments for the Bundibugyo species driving the spread, we dive into the race to develop a vaccine and the critical funding shortfalls standing in the way. While pledges have been made, much of that support has yet to reach those affected on the ground.

We also discuss the congressional hearings on Trump’s fiscal year 2027 foreign affairs budget request, which featured a debate on the Ebola crisis. With this being the first outbreak since the dismantling of USAID, we break down the United States’ approach to the health emergency.

To dig into these stories and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporters Sara Jerving and Michael Igoe for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Check out Devex’s new podcast series Theory of Change:
https://www.devex.com/focus/theory_of_change]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72339496Thu, 04 Jun 2026 08:33:09 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we unpack https://www.devex.com/news/devex-checkup-who-is-funding-what-in-the-ebola-response-112624 in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. With no approved vaccines or treatments for the Bundibugyo species driving the spread, we...This week, we unpack the latest on the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. With no approved vaccines or treatments for the Bundibugyo species driving the spread, we dive into the race to develop a vaccine and the critical funding shortfalls standing in the way. While pledges have been made, much of that support has yet to reach those affected on the ground.

We also discuss the congressional hearings on Trump’s fiscal year 2027 foreign affairs budget request, which featured a debate on the Ebola crisis. With this being the first outbreak since the dismantling of USAID, we break down the United States’ approach to the health emergency.

To dig into these stories and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporters Sara Jerving and Michael Igoe for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Check out Devex’s new podcast series Theory of Change:
https://www.devex.com/focus/theory_of_change]]>1795development,ebola,health,rubio,usaidfalse148fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/can-domestic-resources-and-private-capital-fund-development--72203985In this episode, we look back at the conferences we reported from over the past few weeks, reflecting on how global development narratives are evolving across both the global north and the global south.

With traditional donors stepping back, the African Development Bank is using its annual meetings to urge governments to fix tax inefficiencies and better mobilize domestic resources to drive sustainable economic development.

We found similar themes at the OECD’s Future of Development Co-Operation conference in Paris and the Global Partnerships Conference in London, where unlocking private capital and prioritizing country-led development emerged as key talking points.

To analyze these trends, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to Devex Invested:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/invested]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72203985Thu, 28 May 2026 09:23:57 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this episode, we look back at the conferences we reported from over the past few weeks, reflecting on how global development narratives are evolving across both the global north and the global south. With traditional donors stepping back, the...In this episode, we look back at the conferences we reported from over the past few weeks, reflecting on how global development narratives are evolving across both the global north and the global south.

With traditional donors stepping back, the African Development Bank is using its annual meetings to urge governments to fix tax inefficiencies and better mobilize domestic resources to drive sustainable economic development.

We found similar themes at the OECD’s Future of Development Co-Operation conference in Paris and the Global Partnerships Conference in London, where unlocking private capital and prioritizing country-led development emerged as key talking points.

To analyze these trends, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to Devex Invested:
https://www.devex.com/newsletters/invested]]>2549africa,conferences,development,finance,fundingfalse147fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/live-from-the-world-health-assembly--72087345World Health Organization’s rare decision to proclaim a global health emergency over the latest Ebola outbreak, mounting fears regarding the virus tracking into dense urban centers, and how containment efforts are hindered by strict funding restrictions that leave the vast majority of voluntary budgets tied up.

The discussion also looks at the highly anticipated — yet heavily criticized — joint strategy to reform global health infrastructure, capturing the frustration of analysts who feel the plan avoids essential conversations about institutional mergers. The behind-the-scenes maneuvering for the next WHO director-general selection enters the conversation as well, along with the complex legislative hurdles facing the African Medicines Agency as it strives to secure pharmaceutical independence across the continent.

During the sponsored segment of the podcast, brought to you by PATH, Devex Executive Vice President and co-founder Alan Robbins sits down with Dr. Melanie Saville, PATH’s Chief Scientific Officer, to discuss why diagnostics must move from being viewed as a recurring cost to being funded as essential global health infrastructure.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72087345Wed, 20 May 2026 20:48:05 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFilmed live from Geneva, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly, this episode of This Week in Global Development delves into the critical debates unfolding on the ground in Geneva. That includes the tense atmosphere following the...World Health Organization’s rare decision to proclaim a global health emergency over the latest Ebola outbreak, mounting fears regarding the virus tracking into dense urban centers, and how containment efforts are hindered by strict funding restrictions that leave the vast majority of voluntary budgets tied up.

The discussion also looks at the highly anticipated — yet heavily criticized — joint strategy to reform global health infrastructure, capturing the frustration of analysts who feel the plan avoids essential conversations about institutional mergers. The behind-the-scenes maneuvering for the next WHO director-general selection enters the conversation as well, along with the complex legislative hurdles facing the African Medicines Agency as it strives to secure pharmaceutical independence across the continent.

During the sponsored segment of the podcast, brought to you by PATH, Devex Executive Vice President and co-founder Alan Robbins sits down with Dr. Melanie Saville, PATH’s Chief Scientific Officer, to discuss why diagnostics must move from being viewed as a recurring cost to being funded as essential global health infrastructure.]]>1362false146fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-early-detection-in-brazil-is-a-game-changer-for-lung-cancer-care--72058176 
As the most lethal form of cancer globally, lung cancer often goes undetected until its final stages, but Dr. Santos and the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (are working to change that narrative through a combination of mobile technology and local capacity building. By bringing advanced CT scanning units directly into high-risk, low-income communities, they are catching tumors when they are small and potentially curable, fundamentally shifting the odds for thousands of patients.
 
The conversation also touches on the logistical and cultural hurdles of delivering specialized oncology care to remote areas. Dr. Santos highlights the importance of “bringing the clinic to the patient,” utilizing mobile CT units and telemedicine to bridge the gap in healthcare access. Beyond the technology, the success of the program relies heavily on empowering local health workers and community members to recognize early cancer warning signs and overcome the stigma associated with a cancer diagnosis. This approach not only improves individual health outcomes but also strengthens the broader healthcare system, offering a scalable model for global health initiatives.
 
To learn more about sustainable improvements in cancer care and get a compelling look at how local solutions can drive global change, listen to this special edition of This Week in Global Development. For more international development news, visit: http://www.devex.com

Visit  Strengthening Care Systems — a series raising awareness of the scale of the global lung cancer burden and the systems-level changes required to address it: https://pages.devex.com/strengtheningcaresystems.html]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72058176Tue, 19 May 2026 13:27:33 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn a special edition of the This Week in Global Development podcast, Devex cofounder and Executive Vice President Alan Robbins sits down with Brazilian thoracic surgeon Dr. Ricardo Sales do Santos to discuss a revolutionary approach to tackling lung... 
As the most lethal form of cancer globally, lung cancer often goes undetected until its final stages, but Dr. Santos and the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (are working to change that narrative through a combination of mobile technology and local capacity building. By bringing advanced CT scanning units directly into high-risk, low-income communities, they are catching tumors when they are small and potentially curable, fundamentally shifting the odds for thousands of patients.
 
The conversation also touches on the logistical and cultural hurdles of delivering specialized oncology care to remote areas. Dr. Santos highlights the importance of “bringing the clinic to the patient,” utilizing mobile CT units and telemedicine to bridge the gap in healthcare access. Beyond the technology, the success of the program relies heavily on empowering local health workers and community members to recognize early cancer warning signs and overcome the stigma associated with a cancer diagnosis. This approach not only improves individual health outcomes but also strengthens the broader healthcare system, offering a scalable model for global health initiatives.
 
To learn more about sustainable improvements in cancer care and get a compelling look at how local solutions can drive global change, listen to this special edition of This Week in Global Development. For more international development news, visit: http://www.devex.com

Visit  Strengthening Care Systems — a series raising awareness of the scale of the global lung cancer burden and the systems-level changes required to address it: https://pages.devex.com/strengtheningcaresystems.html]]>1115falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-can-we-expect-from-the-79th-world-health-assembly--72002624This week, we look ahead to the key talking points at the 79th World Health Assembly, where the Devex team will be reporting from next week. As the World Health Organization continues to operate on a deficit, and with the U.S. withdrawal from the agency, we dig into what the future holds for WHO and how this shifting financial landscape will reshape the global health architecture.

With WHO facing funding constraints, we explore how this financial shortfall could impact the agency’s response to the new hantavirus outbreak and its ongoing fight against HIV.

During the episode, we also highlight the sessions we are most looking forward to at Devex Impact House, happening on the sidelines of WHA. Secure your spot by registering here:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-wha-79.html

To offer a preview of the 79th WHA, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Jenny Lei Ravelo and Andrew Green for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

You can now also request an in-person invite or register for on-demand content for our upcoming Devex Impact House @ London Climate Action Week here:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-london-climate-action-week.html]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72002624Thu, 14 May 2026 09:05:41 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we look ahead to the key talking points at the 79th World Health Assembly, where the Devex team will be reporting from next week. As the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-health-organization-who-30562 continues to operate on a...This week, we look ahead to the key talking points at the 79th World Health Assembly, where the Devex team will be reporting from next week. As the World Health Organization continues to operate on a deficit, and with the U.S. withdrawal from the agency, we dig into what the future holds for WHO and how this shifting financial landscape will reshape the global health architecture.

With WHO facing funding constraints, we explore how this financial shortfall could impact the agency’s response to the new hantavirus outbreak and its ongoing fight against HIV.

During the episode, we also highlight the sessions we are most looking forward to at Devex Impact House, happening on the sidelines of WHA. Secure your spot by registering here:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-wha-79.html

To offer a preview of the 79th WHA, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Jenny Lei Ravelo and Andrew Green for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

You can now also request an in-person invite or register for on-demand content for our upcoming Devex Impact House @ London Climate Action Week here:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-london-climate-action-week.html]]>1936development,health,wha,wha79,whofalse145fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-turning-sustainable-energy-into-a-viable-asset-class-in-africa--71958742Africa50, joins Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss a paradigm shift in African infrastructure investment. Africa50, a pan-African investor, is moving beyond one-off projects to aggregate large-scale, “institution-grade” sustainable energy assets. By shifting the narrative from a development imperative to a viable commercial opportunity, Ebobissé explains how his organization is attracting both global and African capital to bridge the continent’s massive energy gap, which currently leaves around 600 million people without basic electricity.

A centerpiece of the conversation is the critical role of private sector participation in electricity transmission, an area historically funded exclusively by governments. Ebobissé emphasizes that power generation is futile without the grid capacity to deliver electricity to end users and businesses, highlighting Africa50’s work on the continent's first independent private transmission projects.

Looking toward the next decade, he advocates for a balanced energy mix — including renewables and natural gas — and issues a call for a heightened sense of urgency among global institutions to prioritize results over perfection in order to close the energy gap at speed.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71958742Mon, 11 May 2026 15:57:01 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special episode of This Week in Global Development, Alain Ebobissé, CEO of https://www.devex.com/organizations/africa50-120252, joins Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss a paradigm shift in African infrastructure investment. Africa50,...Africa50, joins Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss a paradigm shift in African infrastructure investment. Africa50, a pan-African investor, is moving beyond one-off projects to aggregate large-scale, “institution-grade” sustainable energy assets. By shifting the narrative from a development imperative to a viable commercial opportunity, Ebobissé explains how his organization is attracting both global and African capital to bridge the continent’s massive energy gap, which currently leaves around 600 million people without basic electricity.

A centerpiece of the conversation is the critical role of private sector participation in electricity transmission, an area historically funded exclusively by governments. Ebobissé emphasizes that power generation is futile without the grid capacity to deliver electricity to end users and businesses, highlighting Africa50’s work on the continent's first independent private transmission projects.

Looking toward the next decade, he advocates for a balanced energy mix — including renewables and natural gas — and issues a call for a heightened sense of urgency among global institutions to prioritize results over perfection in order to close the energy gap at speed.]]>1247falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inside-the-corruption-scandal-that-tarnished-the-un--71904353This week, we take you inside a Devex exclusive: the $60 million fiasco at the United Nations, a complex story with an equally complex set of characters, including Vitaly Vanshelboim, whose rise and fall left a black mark on a key U.N. agency.

Once revered as a financial wizard, Vanshelboim was the man credited with pulling UNOPS back from the brink of bankruptcy. However, as our investigation reveals, behind the diplomatic prestige and profits lay a shadow world of secret side deals, luxury cars, and a $60 million trail of broken promises. 

Now, as the former U.N. assistant secretary-general faces a reckoning from a Spanish prison cell, we discuss the lingering question: For a system that prides itself on rigorous oversight, is this incident a one-off or emblematic of something deeper? 

To dig into this story and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Request an invitation to attend Devex Impact House @ WHA in Geneva:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-wha-79.html]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71904353Thu, 07 May 2026 09:46:24 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we take you inside a Devex exclusive: the $60 million fiasco at the United Nations, a complex story with an equally complex set of characters, including Vitaly Vanshelboim, whose rise and fall left a black mark on a key U.N. agency. Once...This week, we take you inside a Devex exclusive: the $60 million fiasco at the United Nations, a complex story with an equally complex set of characters, including Vitaly Vanshelboim, whose rise and fall left a black mark on a key U.N. agency.

Once revered as a financial wizard, Vanshelboim was the man credited with pulling UNOPS back from the brink of bankruptcy. However, as our investigation reveals, behind the diplomatic prestige and profits lay a shadow world of secret side deals, luxury cars, and a $60 million trail of broken promises. 

Now, as the former U.N. assistant secretary-general faces a reckoning from a Spanish prison cell, we discuss the lingering question: For a system that prides itself on rigorous oversight, is this incident a one-off or emblematic of something deeper? 

To dig into this story and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Request an invitation to attend Devex Impact House @ WHA in Geneva:
https://pages.devex.com/devex-at-wha-79.html]]>1923corruption,development,scandal,unfalse144fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reform-or-be-defunded-the-trump-administration-s-demands-for-the-un--71775831In an internal memo seen by Devex, the Trump administration has threatened to withhold hundreds of millions of dollars in funding to the United Nations unless it adopts a slate of nine “quick win” reforms. We break down the demands and what they reveal about the United States’ new road map for multilateral engagement.

We also received a recent congressional notification which reveals that USAID has up to $19.2 billion to close out terminated foreign assistance awards. We explore what that funding would be spent on.

To discuss these stories and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth speaks with reporters Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

During the sponsored segment of the This Week in Global Development podcast, brought to you by The Fred Hollows Foundation, Devex Executive Vice President Kate Warren sits down with Dr. Caroline Casey, president of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, to discuss why restoring sight is not just a health intervention, but a critical lever for unlocking women’s economic participation, reducing unpaid care burdens, and accelerating progress on gender equality.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71775831Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:23:35 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn https://www.devex.com/news/exclusive-us-threatens-to-halt-un-funding-unless-conditions-met-112382, the Trump administration has threatened to withhold hundreds of millions of dollars in funding to the...In an internal memo seen by Devex, the Trump administration has threatened to withhold hundreds of millions of dollars in funding to the United Nations unless it adopts a slate of nine “quick win” reforms. We break down the demands and what they reveal about the United States’ new road map for multilateral engagement.

We also received a recent congressional notification which reveals that USAID has up to $19.2 billion to close out terminated foreign assistance awards. We explore what that funding would be spent on.

To discuss these stories and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth speaks with reporters Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

During the sponsored segment of the This Week in Global Development podcast, brought to you by The Fred Hollows Foundation, Devex Executive Vice President Kate Warren sits down with Dr. Caroline Casey, president of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, to discuss why restoring sight is not just a health intervention, but a critical lever for unlocking women’s economic participation, reducing unpaid care burdens, and accelerating progress on gender equality.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2032aid,development,trump,un,usa,usaidfalse143fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-new-world-order-of-aid-inside-the-skoll-world-forum--71586052This week, we are on the ground in Oxford for the Skoll World Forum, an annual international convening of social entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and leaders across government and civil society. While the global development community faced significant headwinds from foreign aid cuts this time last year, the atmosphere at this year’s forum remains optimistic and focused on resilient solutions.

During the conversation, we explore why the forum remains a cornerstone for the global development community, as well as share what we are learning about how philanthropic organizations see their role evolve in the post-aid era.

To discuss the latest news from the Skoll World Forum, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Business Editor David Ainsworth for this edition of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71586052Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:15:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we are on the ground in Oxford for the Skoll World Forum, an annual international convening of social entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and leaders across government and civil society. While the global development community faced significant...This week, we are on the ground in Oxford for the Skoll World Forum, an annual international convening of social entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and leaders across government and civil society. While the global development community faced significant headwinds from foreign aid cuts this time last year, the atmosphere at this year’s forum remains optimistic and focused on resilient solutions.

During the conversation, we explore why the forum remains a cornerstone for the global development community, as well as share what we are learning about how philanthropic organizations see their role evolve in the post-aid era.

To discuss the latest news from the Skoll World Forum, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Business Editor David Ainsworth for this edition of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1657development,philanthropy,skollfalse142fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-visionomics-how-eyeglasses-drive-economic-growth--71524783RestoringVision, to explore the profound economic ripple effects of addressing near-vision loss, or presbyopia. 

While often dismissed as a mere "annoyance," age-related vision loss is a significant barrier to global health and economic development. RestoringVision has coined the term "visionomics" to describe the vital intersection of vision, health, and the economy. For millions in low- to middle-income countries, the inability to see clearly can lead to a devastating economic impact on households, communities, and countries.

The case for investing in vision is mathematically undeniable: For every $1 invested in vision services in these regions, there is a $28 return on investment. Despite this, eye health has historically lagged behind other global health priorities. However, the tide is turning with major new funding commitments and increased political mobilization leading up to the first-ever Global Summit for Eye Health in November 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda. By treating vision not just as a medical cost but as a catalytic investment, organizations can advance at least seven Sustainable Development Goals, proving that a simple pair of reading glasses can be one of the most cost-effective tools for reducing global poverty.

Listen to this episode of This Week in Global Development to hear the whole discussion. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71524783Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:07:23 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn a special edition of the This Week in Development podcast, Devex Executive Vice President Alan Robbins sits down with Ambassador Keisha McGuire, chief global affairs officer at https://www.devex.com/organizations/restoringvision-105646, to explore...RestoringVision, to explore the profound economic ripple effects of addressing near-vision loss, or presbyopia. 

While often dismissed as a mere "annoyance," age-related vision loss is a significant barrier to global health and economic development. RestoringVision has coined the term "visionomics" to describe the vital intersection of vision, health, and the economy. For millions in low- to middle-income countries, the inability to see clearly can lead to a devastating economic impact on households, communities, and countries.

The case for investing in vision is mathematically undeniable: For every $1 invested in vision services in these regions, there is a $28 return on investment. Despite this, eye health has historically lagged behind other global health priorities. However, the tide is turning with major new funding commitments and increased political mobilization leading up to the first-ever Global Summit for Eye Health in November 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda. By treating vision not just as a medical cost but as a catalytic investment, organizations can advance at least seven Sustainable Development Goals, proving that a simple pair of reading glasses can be one of the most cost-effective tools for reducing global poverty.

Listen to this episode of This Week in Global Development to hear the whole discussion. ]]>1340falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/global-progress-in-the-ai-era-the-future-of-ai-will-be-decided-by-small-choices-with-big-stakes--71509571
Taking part in the conversation hosted by Devex Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney were Amini founder and CEO Kate Kallot, as well as Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s minister of communications, innovation, and digital economy. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71509571Tue, 21 Apr 2026 03:01:47 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this episode of Global Progress in the AI Era, a government minister and tech entrepreneur argue that the future of AI will be determined by thousands of small choices.  Taking part in the conversation hosted by Devex Senior Editor for Special...
Taking part in the conversation hosted by Devex Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney were Amini founder and CEO Kate Kallot, as well as Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s minister of communications, innovation, and digital economy. ]]>1777falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inside-the-world-bank-spring-meetings--71399903Against the backdrop of the World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings, Devex reporters Adva Saldinger, Michael Igoe, and Ayenat Mersie dissect the stories they’ve been hearing on the ground this week. That includes the latest OECD figures showing a staggering 25% drop in official development assistance, the ripple effects of the conflict in the Middle East, and a newfound focus on rebuilding public consensus.

The discussion also looks at the World Bank’s bold new “sector-first” strategy, highlighted by the launch of Water Forward — an ambitious initiative aiming to provide one billion people with access to clean water through country-led compacts. The return of African trade corridors enters the discussion as well, along with the International Monetary Fund’s scramble for concessional funding. 

To dig into these stories, listen to this episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71399903Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:19:58 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAgainst the backdrop of the https://www.devex.com/focus/worldbank, Devex reporters Adva Saldinger, Michael Igoe, and Ayenat Mersie dissect the stories they’ve been hearing on the ground this week. That...Against the backdrop of the World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings, Devex reporters Adva Saldinger, Michael Igoe, and Ayenat Mersie dissect the stories they’ve been hearing on the ground this week. That includes the latest OECD figures showing a staggering 25% drop in official development assistance, the ripple effects of the conflict in the Middle East, and a newfound focus on rebuilding public consensus.

The discussion also looks at the World Bank’s bold new “sector-first” strategy, highlighted by the launch of Water Forward — an ambitious initiative aiming to provide one billion people with access to clean water through country-led compacts. The return of African trade corridors enters the discussion as well, along with the International Monetary Fund’s scramble for concessional funding. 

To dig into these stories, listen to this episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>1626development,finance,oecd,waterfalse141fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-every-crisis-is-political-redefining-humanitarian-response--71304548The international aid system has long operated on the ideal of "neutrality," but our latest episode of This Week in Global Development, sponsored by the Urgent Action Sister Funds, challenges this deeply embedded notion. 

Devex Executive Editor and Executive Vice President Kate Warren is joined by the Urgent Action Sister Funds’ Jean Kemitare and Johnny Tohme, as well as Lucy Martin of the Centre for Applied Human Rights at the University of York, for the conversation. Over the course of the episode, our guests discuss the idea that no crisis happens in a vacuum. Instead, crises are shaped by history, power dynamics, and the strategic allocation of resources. By pretending aid is neutral, the current system risks repeating the same patterns that leave communities vulnerable in the first place.

The centerpiece of the discussion is the Feminist Crisis Response Model, a flagship research initiative that highlights how grassroots feminist movements are uniquely equipped to navigate the entire "crisis continuum" — from prevention and survival to long-term transformation. Unlike traditional models that treat crises as isolated events to be managed, the feminist lens views them as visible ruptures of long-term structural issues such as patriarchy, colonialism, and economic injustice. This approach shifts the center of gravity from large external institutions to local partners who are already embedded in their communities and accountable to them. 

By recognizing that "every crisis is political," the model encourages donors to move beyond simple quantifiable metrics, such as the number of aid parcels delivered, and instead invest in intangible yet critical resources such as community care, solidarity, and structural systemic change. Listen to this episode of This Week in Global Development to hear the whole discussion. 

Explore the report that fully explicates the Feminist Crisis Response Model: “Resourcing Strategies in an Age of Permacrisis: Critical Lessons from Feminist Philanthropy" - https://feministcrisisresponse.org/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnBQe3qpHdPMB4gBlhz7ORmPBUBI61wUJR-pKhqEO7vQUJs36us-nFPvQpIZU_aem_oe4R1ClbuCTgE1cZHz5Geg.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71304548Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:09:39 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe international aid system has long operated on the ideal of "neutrality," but our latest episode of This Week in Global Development, sponsored by the Urgent Action Sister Funds, challenges this deeply embedded notion.  Devex Executive Editor and...The international aid system has long operated on the ideal of "neutrality," but our latest episode of This Week in Global Development, sponsored by the Urgent Action Sister Funds, challenges this deeply embedded notion. 

Devex Executive Editor and Executive Vice President Kate Warren is joined by the Urgent Action Sister Funds’ Jean Kemitare and Johnny Tohme, as well as Lucy Martin of the Centre for Applied Human Rights at the University of York, for the conversation. Over the course of the episode, our guests discuss the idea that no crisis happens in a vacuum. Instead, crises are shaped by history, power dynamics, and the strategic allocation of resources. By pretending aid is neutral, the current system risks repeating the same patterns that leave communities vulnerable in the first place.

The centerpiece of the discussion is the Feminist Crisis Response Model, a flagship research initiative that highlights how grassroots feminist movements are uniquely equipped to navigate the entire "crisis continuum" — from prevention and survival to long-term transformation. Unlike traditional models that treat crises as isolated events to be managed, the feminist lens views them as visible ruptures of long-term structural issues such as patriarchy, colonialism, and economic injustice. This approach shifts the center of gravity from large external institutions to local partners who are already embedded in their communities and accountable to them. 

By recognizing that "every crisis is political," the model encourages donors to move beyond simple quantifiable metrics, such as the number of aid parcels delivered, and instead invest in intangible yet critical resources such as community care, solidarity, and structural systemic change. Listen to this episode of This Week in Global Development to hear the whole discussion. 

Explore the report that fully explicates the Feminist Crisis Response Model: “Resourcing Strategies in an Age of Permacrisis: Critical Lessons from Feminist Philanthropy" - https://feministcrisisresponse.org/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnBQe3qpHdPMB4gBlhz7ORmPBUBI61wUJR-pKhqEO7vQUJs36us-nFPvQpIZU_aem_oe4R1ClbuCTgE1cZHz5Geg.
]]>2632falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-the-united-states-new-foreign-aid-strategy--71204115This week, we discuss the United States’ new highly targeted approach to humanitarian aid, showcased in a $2 billion agreement with the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA. 

Designed for rapid impact, the funds are strictly earmarked for direct, lifesaving assistance over a short six-month window across 18 crisis-affected countries. We explore the implications of this strategy, which signals a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid toward fast-tracked, tightly scoped interventions focused on immediate survival. 

During the conversation, we also take a look at the details of the Trump administration’s budget request, which calls for a 30% cut to foreign affairs spending and increased funding to rebuild and secure critical mineral supply chains. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Adva Saldinger and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

To find out more about how the U.S. budget works, check out our special explainer episode. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71204115Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:13:20 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we discuss the United States’ https://www.devex.com/news/inside-america-s-2-billion-humanitarian-bet-112198 to humanitarian aid, showcased in a $2 billion agreement with the...This week, we discuss the United States’ new highly targeted approach to humanitarian aid, showcased in a $2 billion agreement with the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA. 

Designed for rapid impact, the funds are strictly earmarked for direct, lifesaving assistance over a short six-month window across 18 crisis-affected countries. We explore the implications of this strategy, which signals a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid toward fast-tracked, tightly scoped interventions focused on immediate survival. 

During the conversation, we also take a look at the details of the Trump administration’s budget request, which calls for a 30% cut to foreign affairs spending and increased funding to rebuild and secure critical mineral supply chains. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Adva Saldinger and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

To find out more about how the U.S. budget works, check out our special explainer episode. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2001aid,development,finance,trumpfalse140fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-breast-cancer-as-a-global-development-challenge--71171243
Hosted in partnership with The Pfizer Foundation, Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Darren Back, Dr. Loice Sitienei, and Dr. Patrick Loehrer to explore why integrated breast cancer care strengthens both health systems and economic resilience, ultimately improving outcomes for women facing this disease.

The conversation underscores the systemic barriers to breast cancer care in LMICs, where limited infrastructure and high costs often lead to delays in diagnosis. The Pfizer Foundation's Action and Impact initiative, a philanthropic investment now totaling $25 million across five sub-Saharan African countries, aims to expand access to timely breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care. By supporting partners working with local and national governments to advance access to care, the initiative seeks to not only improve breast cancer outcomes but also strengthen overall health systems and long-term prosperity.

To hear more, listen to this on This Week in Global Development.

The Pfizer Foundation is a charitable organization established by Pfizer Inc. and is a separate legal entity with distinct legal restrictions. To learn more about The Pfizer Foundation, click here.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71171243Wed, 08 Apr 2026 02:35:30 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special episode of This Week in Global Development, we explore breast cancer not just as a health challenge, but as a critical development challenge. In low- and middle-income countries, or LMICs, a breast cancer diagnosis can have a...
Hosted in partnership with The Pfizer Foundation, Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Darren Back, Dr. Loice Sitienei, and Dr. Patrick Loehrer to explore why integrated breast cancer care strengthens both health systems and economic resilience, ultimately improving outcomes for women facing this disease.

The conversation underscores the systemic barriers to breast cancer care in LMICs, where limited infrastructure and high costs often lead to delays in diagnosis. The Pfizer Foundation's Action and Impact initiative, a philanthropic investment now totaling $25 million across five sub-Saharan African countries, aims to expand access to timely breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care. By supporting partners working with local and national governments to advance access to care, the initiative seeks to not only improve breast cancer outcomes but also strengthen overall health systems and long-term prosperity.

To hear more, listen to this on This Week in Global Development.

The Pfizer Foundation is a charitable organization established by Pfizer Inc. and is a separate legal entity with distinct legal restrictions. To learn more about The Pfizer Foundation, click here.]]>1988falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unpacking-the-uk-s-new-aid-strategy-and-the-world-bank-s-approach-to-water--71080603We dig into the key findings of a report published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development on philanthropic funding. As traditional donors continue to slash their aid budgets, we examine where philanthropy can help plug the global development funding gap and provide resources for areas the private sector is not focusing on.

We also discuss the United Kingdom’s new aid strategy. As the country looks to cut official development assistance spending to 0.3% of its gross national income, the government plans to shift from a donor role to an investor role, while focusing its aid on fragile and conflict-affected states.

As we look ahead to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings this month, we explore the former’s new water strategy, which aims to shift away from a narrow focus on infrastructure toward a broader, more integrated approach.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Danielle Kaye for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71080603Fri, 03 Apr 2026 09:11:00 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWe dig intohttps://www.devex.com/news/philanthropy-in-aid-is-growing-and-it-s-billions-more-than-we-thought-112126 published by the https://www.devex.com/organizations/organisation-for-economic-co-operation-and-development-oecd-29872 on philanthropic...We dig into the key findings of a report published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development on philanthropic funding. As traditional donors continue to slash their aid budgets, we examine where philanthropy can help plug the global development funding gap and provide resources for areas the private sector is not focusing on.

We also discuss the United Kingdom’s new aid strategy. As the country looks to cut official development assistance spending to 0.3% of its gross national income, the government plans to shift from a donor role to an investor role, while focusing its aid on fragile and conflict-affected states.

As we look ahead to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings this month, we explore the former’s new water strategy, which aims to shift away from a narrow focus on infrastructure toward a broader, more integrated approach.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Danielle Kaye for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1564aid,philanthropy,uk,waterfalse139fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/global-progress-in-the-ai-era-why-investing-in-evidence-is-key-to-translating-ai-hype-into-impact--71004432https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71004432Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:13:19 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs governments and funders invest in AI for development, a critical question remains: what actually delivers impact? In this episode of Global Progress in the AI Era, experts explain that funding evidence — not just innovation — will determine whether...2554falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pepfar-global-fund-and-the-future-of-hiv-care--70901565U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR. Despite ongoing congressional support, a significant disconnect between allocated funds and State Department disbursements has left major implementing agencies such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention operating on less than half their usual budget. As bridge funding begins to dry up and transition plans for bilateral health deals stall, the real-world consequences are starting to emerge — from shuttered drop-in centers in Nairobi to drastic service cuts in Uganda — and are putting key populations at immediate risk.

When it comes to on-the-ground implementation, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is increasingly expected to fill the vacuum left by the dismantling of USAID projects. This shift toward using the Global Fund’s infrastructure for large-scale health transitions has been fraught with technical hurdles, however, including performance issues with the fund’s wambo.org procurement platform and the looming policy implications of the expanded global gag rule. 

To dig into these stories, Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex reporters Andrew Green and Jenny Lei Ravelo for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70901565Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:02:31 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this week’s edition of This Week in Global Development, we unpack the precarious state of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/u-s-president-s-emergency-plan-for-aids-relief-pepfar-48995, or PEPFAR. Despite ongoing congressional support, a...U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR. Despite ongoing congressional support, a significant disconnect between allocated funds and State Department disbursements has left major implementing agencies such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention operating on less than half their usual budget. As bridge funding begins to dry up and transition plans for bilateral health deals stall, the real-world consequences are starting to emerge — from shuttered drop-in centers in Nairobi to drastic service cuts in Uganda — and are putting key populations at immediate risk.

When it comes to on-the-ground implementation, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is increasingly expected to fill the vacuum left by the dismantling of USAID projects. This shift toward using the Global Fund’s infrastructure for large-scale health transitions has been fraught with technical hurdles, however, including performance issues with the fund’s wambo.org procurement platform and the looming policy implications of the expanded global gag rule. 

To dig into these stories, Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex reporters Andrew Green and Jenny Lei Ravelo for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.]]>1868false138fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/global-progress-in-the-ai-era-how-givedirectly-is-using-ai-to-deliver-cash-faster--70839176https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70839176Mon, 23 Mar 2026 21:56:11 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this episode of Global Progress in the AI Era, Nick Allardice explains how GiveDirectly is using AI to deliver faster, more direct aid — from anticipatory cash transfers in Bangladesh to near real-time responses in crisis zones. The conversation...2577falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-what-will-it-take-to-reverse-hiv-in-eastern-europe-and-central-asia--708324412.1 million people living with the virus. Alarmingly, about 20% are unaware of their status, and nearly half remain without treatment. Since 2010, EECA has become the only region globally where AIDS-related deaths have continued to rise, fueled by systemic challenges like stigma, restrictive laws, and the devastating impact of the war in Ukraine.

In this special episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast, sponsored by Gilead Sciences and Elton John AIDS Foundation, Devex Executive Editor and Executive Vice President Kate Warren speaks with Denys Denysenko, Eastern Europe and Central Asia portfolio lead at the Elton John AIDS Foundation, to explore how RADIAN, a transformative partnership between Gilead Sciences and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, is turning the tide. 

Denysenko discusses the power of community-led solutions — from mobile clinics and software that bridges language barriers for refugees to cutting-edge AI tools in Kazakhstan that monitor patient health and prevent treatment interruptions. Discover how these innovative, trust-based models are reaching the most vulnerable communities and offering a roadmap for global health leaders to reverse the trend in this overlooked region.

To hear more, listen to this conversation with Denysenko on This Week in Global Development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70832441Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:33:54 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWhile HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths are declining globally, the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region, or EECA, tells a different story. It is now home to one of the world’s fastest-growing HIV epidemics, with over...2.1 million people living with the virus. Alarmingly, about 20% are unaware of their status, and nearly half remain without treatment. Since 2010, EECA has become the only region globally where AIDS-related deaths have continued to rise, fueled by systemic challenges like stigma, restrictive laws, and the devastating impact of the war in Ukraine.

In this special episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast, sponsored by Gilead Sciences and Elton John AIDS Foundation, Devex Executive Editor and Executive Vice President Kate Warren speaks with Denys Denysenko, Eastern Europe and Central Asia portfolio lead at the Elton John AIDS Foundation, to explore how RADIAN, a transformative partnership between Gilead Sciences and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, is turning the tide. 

Denysenko discusses the power of community-led solutions — from mobile clinics and software that bridges language barriers for refugees to cutting-edge AI tools in Kazakhstan that monitor patient health and prevent treatment interruptions. Discover how these innovative, trust-based models are reaching the most vulnerable communities and offering a roadmap for global health leaders to reverse the trend in this overlooked region.

To hear more, listen to this conversation with Denysenko on This Week in Global Development.]]>1085falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/latin-america-and-africa-paths-diverge-amid-global-shocks--70767931
At the recent Inter-American Development Bank meetings, an atmosphere of intense optimism prevailed, fueled by the region's 63% renewable energy matrix and the attendance of over 1,600 private sector leaders. High-impact projects such as the 2,300-mile Bi-Oceanic Corridor, designed to slash trade routes to Asia by 17 days, and the Lac Minerals initiative for lithium processing, signal a robust new era of regional integration and industrial growth.

In stark contrast, many African nations face a deepening crisis as volatility in the Middle East has driven fuel prices up by as much as 77% in cities such as Mogadishu. These inflationary pressures are devastating for informal workers and humanitarian efforts, with the World Food Programme facing skyrocketing insurance costs and delayed shipping routes that bypass the Red Sea. 

With traditional aid from the West decreasing, both regions are increasingly looking toward south-south cooperation and Gulf investments to secure their economic futures.

To dig into these stories, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Devex reporters Jesse Chase-Lubitz and Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70767931Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:04:41 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentA tale of two continents is unfolding in the global development landscape as Latin America embraces a surge of private investment while Africa grapples with severe economic aftershocks from geopolitical conflict in the Middle East.  At the recent...
At the recent Inter-American Development Bank meetings, an atmosphere of intense optimism prevailed, fueled by the region's 63% renewable energy matrix and the attendance of over 1,600 private sector leaders. High-impact projects such as the 2,300-mile Bi-Oceanic Corridor, designed to slash trade routes to Asia by 17 days, and the Lac Minerals initiative for lithium processing, signal a robust new era of regional integration and industrial growth.

In stark contrast, many African nations face a deepening crisis as volatility in the Middle East has driven fuel prices up by as much as 77% in cities such as Mogadishu. These inflationary pressures are devastating for informal workers and humanitarian efforts, with the World Food Programme facing skyrocketing insurance costs and delayed shipping routes that bypass the Red Sea. 

With traditional aid from the West decreasing, both regions are increasingly looking toward south-south cooperation and Gulf investments to secure their economic futures.

To dig into these stories, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Devex reporters Jesse Chase-Lubitz and Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.]]>2129false137fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/global-progress-in-the-ai-era-what-happens-when-ai-labs-and-social-enterprises-build-together--70698883https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70698883Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:31:31 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs AI models scale globally, social enterprises are increasingly working with frontier AI labs to test, adapt, and improve the technology in local contexts. This episode explores how those partnerships could determine whether AI reinforces existing...3321falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inside-csw-what-is-at-stake-for-gender-equality--70607835This week, we are reporting from the Commission on the Status of Women — the world’s largest gathering on gender equality, which is taking place at the United Nations headquarters in New York. We discuss the key talking points at the conference, including what’s at stake amid a global regression in women’s rights, as well as the conversations taking place on the sidelines of the main summit.  

Staying on the topic of gender equality and the U.N., we also explore the potential merger of two agencies — UN Women and UNFPA — and explore the latest updates on the race for the next U.N. Secretary-General. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Adva Saldinger sits down with Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70607835Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:10:33 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we are https://www.devex.com/news/special-edition-drawing-the-battle-lines-on-women-girls-and-gender-at-the-un-111993 — the world’s largest gathering on gender equality, which is taking place at the...This week, we are reporting from the Commission on the Status of Women — the world’s largest gathering on gender equality, which is taking place at the United Nations headquarters in New York. We discuss the key talking points at the conference, including what’s at stake amid a global regression in women’s rights, as well as the conversations taking place on the sidelines of the main summit.  

Staying on the topic of gender equality and the U.N., we also explore the potential merger of two agencies — UN Women and UNFPA — and explore the latest updates on the race for the next U.N. Secretary-General. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Adva Saldinger sits down with Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2046csw70,gender,un,unfpa,womenfalse136fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/global-progress-in-the-ai-era-can-a-new-effort-scale-ai-for-good-to-reach-hundreds-of-millions--70551872Too many “AI for good” pilots fail before reaching the people who need them most.

To solve this scaling crisis, Kanika Bahl, the CEO of Evidence Action, is stepping down from the helm of the organization to lead a new effort called the AI Access Initiative. Operating as an “AI-native NGO,” the initiative will bridge the gap between frontier tech labs and global development actors. 

Rather than funding endless pilots, it is focusing on scaling proven “big bets,” including clinical decision support for overstretched health systems and AI weather forecasting for smallholder farmers.

Bahl warns that the development sector must abandon “business as usual” and aim for audacious goals — including reaching half of the world’s 3.5 billion people living in poverty — to prevent a rapidly widening digital divide.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70551872Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:15:18 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentToo many “AI for good” pilots fail before reaching the people who need them most. To solve this scaling crisis, Kanika Bahl, the CEO of Evidence Action, is stepping down from the helm of the organization to lead a new effort called the AI Access...Too many “AI for good” pilots fail before reaching the people who need them most.

To solve this scaling crisis, Kanika Bahl, the CEO of Evidence Action, is stepping down from the helm of the organization to lead a new effort called the AI Access Initiative. Operating as an “AI-native NGO,” the initiative will bridge the gap between frontier tech labs and global development actors. 

Rather than funding endless pilots, it is focusing on scaling proven “big bets,” including clinical decision support for overstretched health systems and AI weather forecasting for smallholder farmers.

Bahl warns that the development sector must abandon “business as usual” and aim for audacious goals — including reaching half of the world’s 3.5 billion people living in poverty — to prevent a rapidly widening digital divide.]]>2501ai,development,technologyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inside-eib-s-critical-meetings-and-usaid-s-controversial-shutdown--70477120This week, we are reporting from the European Investment Bank’s annual meetings in Luxembourg to better understand the direction in which the institution is heading. We dig into the agenda as Europe continues to balance defense and development spending.

EIB President Nadia Calviño says the bank is “carrying the flag of development.” This comes as the bank pledged $1 billion for electrification in Africa, strengthened its commitment to health and gender, and launched its third Gender Action Plan.

During the conversation, we also discuss the messy USAID closeout process. Despite hundreds of millions of dollars owed to former partners and a growing threat of litigation, sources say the Trump administration is stalling settlement payments and imposing unrealistic deadlines as it starves the agency’s legacy operations.

To explore these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Michael Igoe and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70477120Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:49:47 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we are reporting from the https://www.devex.com/news/devex-invested-at-eib-meetings-big-money-in-a-tiny-duchy-111983 to better understand the direction in which the institution is heading. We dig into the agenda as Europe continues to...This week, we are reporting from the European Investment Bank’s annual meetings in Luxembourg to better understand the direction in which the institution is heading. We dig into the agenda as Europe continues to balance defense and development spending.

EIB President Nadia Calviño says the bank is “carrying the flag of development.” This comes as the bank pledged $1 billion for electrification in Africa, strengthened its commitment to health and gender, and launched its third Gender Action Plan.

During the conversation, we also discuss the messy USAID closeout process. Despite hundreds of millions of dollars owed to former partners and a growing threat of litigation, sources say the Trump administration is stalling settlement payments and imposing unrealistic deadlines as it starves the agency’s legacy operations.

To explore these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Michael Igoe and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1489aid,development,eib,finance,usaidfalse135fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/global-progress-in-the-ai-era-how-the-global-south-can-finance-ai-infrastructure-on-its-own-terms--70397230
As the conversation around AI often centers on the massive "gigawatt factories" of the global north, our guests argue that the real bottleneck isn’t computing capability, but institutional capacity and the underlying financing architecture. We discuss the transition from short-term pilots to durable public infrastructure, examining how strategic investment in regulators and civil servants is just as vital as the tech itself. By focusing on a three-part financing model that secures data rights and long-term maintenance, this episode explores how countries can build systems they can actually govern — ensuring that AI moves humanity forward rather than just serving as a new frontier for extraction.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70397230Mon, 02 Mar 2026 21:36:17 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week on Devex’s Global Progress in the AI Era podcast, we are breaking down the critical shift from simply accessing artificial intelligence to owning the infrastructure it runs on, with a specific focus on how the global south can finance AI...
As the conversation around AI often centers on the massive "gigawatt factories" of the global north, our guests argue that the real bottleneck isn’t computing capability, but institutional capacity and the underlying financing architecture. We discuss the transition from short-term pilots to durable public infrastructure, examining how strategic investment in regulators and civil servants is just as vital as the tech itself. By focusing on a three-part financing model that secures data rights and long-term maintenance, this episode explores how countries can build systems they can actually govern — ensuring that AI moves humanity forward rather than just serving as a new frontier for extraction.]]>2706falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/key-takeaways-from-the-ai-impact-summit-and-philanthropy-under-scrutiny--70298983Last week, we were at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 to find out how this revolutionary technology can transform global development. From AI regulation to the push for democratized access, we’re breaking down our key takeaways from the summit and exploring how artificial intelligence can maximize impact in the sector.

On the topic of the AI Impact Summit, Bill Gates pulled out hours before delivering a keynote speech. As the ties between the billionaire philanthropist and Jeffrey Epstein continue to generate headlines, we discuss whether the scrutiny of their relationship will broaden into a larger conversation about the power structures underlying elite philanthropy.

To dig into these stories, and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney to discuss the top global development stories of the week. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70298983Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:02:54 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week, we were at the https://www.devex.com/news/special-edition-the-global-south-demands-a-voice-on-ai-at-india-summit-111931 to find out how this revolutionary technology can transform global development. From AI regulation to the push for...Last week, we were at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 to find out how this revolutionary technology can transform global development. From AI regulation to the push for democratized access, we’re breaking down our key takeaways from the summit and exploring how artificial intelligence can maximize impact in the sector.

On the topic of the AI Impact Summit, Bill Gates pulled out hours before delivering a keynote speech. As the ties between the billionaire philanthropist and Jeffrey Epstein continue to generate headlines, we discuss whether the scrutiny of their relationship will broaden into a larger conversation about the power structures underlying elite philanthropy.

To dig into these stories, and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney to discuss the top global development stories of the week. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1932ai,development,epstein,gates,philanthropyfalse134fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/global-progress-in-the-ai-era-governing-the-ai-moment--70246733Artificial intelligence is moving at breakneck speed, but can global governance keep up?

In this episode of our new podcast series, Global progress in the AI era, Devex’s Catherine Cheney sits down with Amandeep Singh Gill, the U.N. secretary-general’s envoy on technology.

Together, they unpack the fast-evolving — and often fragmented — architecture of AI regulation.The core question: Can today’s patchwork of initiatives be connected quickly enough to ensure low- and middle-income countries help shape how AI is built and used — rather than being shut out of the benefits and left as testing grounds for systems making high-stakes decisions about their future?]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70246733Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:32:12 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentArtificial intelligence is moving at breakneck speed, but can global governance keep up? In this episode of our new podcast series, Global progress in the AI era, Devex’s Catherine Cheney sits down with Amandeep Singh Gill, the U.N....Artificial intelligence is moving at breakneck speed, but can global governance keep up?

In this episode of our new podcast series, Global progress in the AI era, Devex’s Catherine Cheney sits down with Amandeep Singh Gill, the U.N. secretary-general’s envoy on technology.

Together, they unpack the fast-evolving — and often fragmented — architecture of AI regulation.The core question: Can today’s patchwork of initiatives be connected quickly enough to ensure low- and middle-income countries help shape how AI is built and used — rather than being shut out of the benefits and left as testing grounds for systems making high-stakes decisions about their future?]]>2511ai,development,impact,technologyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-did-we-learn-at-the-african-union-summit-and-the-munich-security-conference--70154224We examine the latest developments surrounding the African Continental Free Trade Area, or AfCFTA, which served as a focal point of the recent African Union Summit. The initiative continues its phased reduction of continental tariffs to bolster intra-African trade and industrialization.

The development of strategic resource corridors to anchor critical mineral supply chains was also a cornerstone of the discussions. The U.S. officials sought to reassure participants that corridor investments would not be exploitative and would deliver tangible benefits to local communities.

We also reflect on the Munich Security Conference, where we found that the global south was underrepresented. While traditional foreign aid was largely sidelined in favor of immediate security priorities, development finance emerged as a prominent topic of conversation. Throughout the summit, participants frequently championed the argument that strategic investment in development is a prerequisite for global security, rather than a byproduct of it.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70154224Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:35:12 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWe examine the latest developments surrounding the https://www.devex.com/organizations/african-continental-free-trade-area-afcfta-192471, or AfCFTA, which served as a focal point of...We examine the latest developments surrounding the African Continental Free Trade Area, or AfCFTA, which served as a focal point of the recent African Union Summit. The initiative continues its phased reduction of continental tariffs to bolster intra-African trade and industrialization.

The development of strategic resource corridors to anchor critical mineral supply chains was also a cornerstone of the discussions. The U.S. officials sought to reassure participants that corridor investments would not be exploitative and would deliver tangible benefits to local communities.

We also reflect on the Munich Security Conference, where we found that the global south was underrepresented. While traditional foreign aid was largely sidelined in favor of immediate security priorities, development finance emerged as a prominent topic of conversation. Throughout the summit, participants frequently championed the argument that strategic investment in development is a prerequisite for global security, rather than a byproduct of it.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1647au,defense,development,msc,msc26,security,tradefalse133fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-is-the-impact-of-aid-cuts-in-africa--70013669This week we take a look at a new report from the Center for Global Development, which found that aid cuts have largely failed to spark reform in sub-Saharan Africa. The caveat, though, is that the authors analyzed national budget data from June 2025 — shortly after the U.S. announced its drastic cuts, meaning the analysis doesn’t reflect efforts that have been taken since then. 

But still, it challenges the viability of current financing models and highlights growing risks to essential social spending in recipient countries.

On the topic of sub-Saharan Africa, we examine the situation in Malawi, which is struggling to sustain critical health, education, and development programs after abrupt cuts to U.S. foreign aid exposed the country’s heavy reliance on donor funding.

Foreign aid cuts by the United States and the United Kingdom have also impacted the fight against female genital mutilation, hindering progress toward its elimination.

To dig into these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Sara Jerving and Ayenat Mersie to discuss the top global development stories of the week. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70013669Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:14:32 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we take a look at a https://www.cgdev.org/blog/aid-cuts-are-not-leading-reforms-sub-saharan-africa, which found that aid cuts have largely failed to spark reform in sub-Saharan Africa. The caveat, though, is that the authors analyzed...This week we take a look at a new report from the Center for Global Development, which found that aid cuts have largely failed to spark reform in sub-Saharan Africa. The caveat, though, is that the authors analyzed national budget data from June 2025 — shortly after the U.S. announced its drastic cuts, meaning the analysis doesn’t reflect efforts that have been taken since then. 

But still, it challenges the viability of current financing models and highlights growing risks to essential social spending in recipient countries.

On the topic of sub-Saharan Africa, we examine the situation in Malawi, which is struggling to sustain critical health, education, and development programs after abrupt cuts to U.S. foreign aid exposed the country’s heavy reliance on donor funding.

Foreign aid cuts by the United States and the United Kingdom have also impacted the fight against female genital mutilation, hindering progress toward its elimination.

To dig into these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Sara Jerving and Ayenat Mersie to discuss the top global development stories of the week. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1615africa,aid,development,healthfalse132fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-new-power-players--69815072In this episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast, Business Editor David Ainsworth is joined by Managing Editor Anna Gowel and Deputy Managing Editor Fiona Zublin to discuss the launch of Devex’s Power 50 list. The conversation highlights how the development landscape is shifting away from traditional power structures toward influential "movers and shakers" behind the scenes, including tech entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and leaders from the global south. Key figures mentioned include Anna Makanju of OpenAI, representing the impact of artificial intelligence on development, and Benjamin Black of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, illustrating the growing importance of private sector investment in global aid. Our discussion then moves to resource sovereignty, particularly concerning critical minerals on the African continent. The editors explore how countries such as Botswana, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are implementing export bans and seeking more control over their natural resources to ensure local processing and economic benefits. To hear more, listen to this conversation on This Week in Global Development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69815072Thu, 05 Feb 2026 20:02:00 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast, Business Editor David Ainsworth is joined by Managing Editor Anna Gowel and Deputy Managing Editor Fiona Zublin to discuss the launch of Devex’s...In this episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast, Business Editor David Ainsworth is joined by Managing Editor Anna Gowel and Deputy Managing Editor Fiona Zublin to discuss the launch of Devex’s Power 50 list. The conversation highlights how the development landscape is shifting away from traditional power structures toward influential "movers and shakers" behind the scenes, including tech entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and leaders from the global south. Key figures mentioned include Anna Makanju of OpenAI, representing the impact of artificial intelligence on development, and Benjamin Black of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, illustrating the growing importance of private sector investment in global aid. Our discussion then moves to resource sovereignty, particularly concerning critical minerals on the African continent. The editors explore how countries such as Botswana, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are implementing export bans and seeking more control over their natural resources to ensure local processing and economic benefits. To hear more, listen to this conversation on This Week in Global Development.]]>1889false131fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-elevating-oral-health-on-the-global-agenda--69765898In this special edition of our podcast, This week in global development, we explore the critical yet often overlooked issue of oral health with guests Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, and Esha Gupta, Head of Public Health and Social Impact at Colgate-Palmolive.

Despite oral diseases affecting 3.7 billion people and being among the most common noncommunicable diseases, oral health has historically been siloed from systemic health discussions. This conversation highlights how oral health serves as a vital gateway to overall wellness — and makes the case for oral health as a key starting point for early health interventions.

Recorded during the World Economic Forum in Davos, the episode focuses on a landmark multiyear partnership between the WHO Foundation and Colgate-Palmolive to scale oral health education and policy globally. This collaboration aims to integrate oral care into primary health systems, particularly in countries with high disease burdens, by building on the legacy of the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures children’s oral health education program alongside the WHO’s normative guidance. By moving from a traditional aid model to a strategic investment approach, the partnership seeks to elevate oral health on the global public health agenda and advance healthier futures for all.

To hear more about this initiative and the case for investing in oral health, listen to this conversation with Anil Soni and Esha Gupta on the Devex podcast.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69765898Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:06:35 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special edition of our podcast, This week in global development, we explore the critical yet often overlooked issue of oral health with guests Anil Soni, CEO of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/who-foundation-164054, and Esha Gupta,...In this special edition of our podcast, This week in global development, we explore the critical yet often overlooked issue of oral health with guests Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, and Esha Gupta, Head of Public Health and Social Impact at Colgate-Palmolive.

Despite oral diseases affecting 3.7 billion people and being among the most common noncommunicable diseases, oral health has historically been siloed from systemic health discussions. This conversation highlights how oral health serves as a vital gateway to overall wellness — and makes the case for oral health as a key starting point for early health interventions.

Recorded during the World Economic Forum in Davos, the episode focuses on a landmark multiyear partnership between the WHO Foundation and Colgate-Palmolive to scale oral health education and policy globally. This collaboration aims to integrate oral care into primary health systems, particularly in countries with high disease burdens, by building on the legacy of the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures children’s oral health education program alongside the WHO’s normative guidance. By moving from a traditional aid model to a strategic investment approach, the partnership seeks to elevate oral health on the global public health agenda and advance healthier futures for all.

To hear more about this initiative and the case for investing in oral health, listen to this conversation with Anil Soni and Esha Gupta on the Devex podcast.]]>1277falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/us-amps-up-aid-restrictions-and-those-left-behind-in-era-of-self-interest--69667885This week we report on the U.S. State Department’s radical expansion of the Mexico City Policy, also known as the global gag rule, which blocks U.S. federal funding to international nongovernmental organizations that provide or inform about abortion. Beyond the traditional reproductive health restrictions, three sweeping new rules now tether all U.S. foreign assistance to strict prohibitions on “gender ideology” as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives.

During the conversation we also dig into the key findings of a report published by the European Network on Debt and Development, or Eurodad, which warns that modernized aid rules are focusing on the political and commercial priorities of wealthy donors while leaving the world's poorest countries buried in debt.

We also touch on the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank’s updated accountability and grievance mechanism, and our exclusive story which reveals through a set of leaked emails that the Beijing-based lender is sidestepping on-the-ground meetings with Indigenous communities over alleged human rights abuses at a tourism development project in Indonesia.

To explore these stories, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69667885Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:23:42 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we report on the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-department-of-state-dos-23842’s https://www.devex.com/news/new-us-funding-rules-tie-aid-to-abortion-gender-ideology-dei-bans-111763, also known as the global gag rule, which...This week we report on the U.S. State Department’s radical expansion of the Mexico City Policy, also known as the global gag rule, which blocks U.S. federal funding to international nongovernmental organizations that provide or inform about abortion. Beyond the traditional reproductive health restrictions, three sweeping new rules now tether all U.S. foreign assistance to strict prohibitions on “gender ideology” as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives.

During the conversation we also dig into the key findings of a report published by the European Network on Debt and Development, or Eurodad, which warns that modernized aid rules are focusing on the political and commercial priorities of wealthy donors while leaving the world's poorest countries buried in debt.

We also touch on the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank’s updated accountability and grievance mechanism, and our exclusive story which reveals through a set of leaked emails that the Beijing-based lender is sidestepping on-the-ground meetings with Indigenous communities over alleged human rights abuses at a tourism development project in Indonesia.

To explore these stories, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1650aiib,dei,development,diversity,eurodad,trumpfalse130fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-bcg-on-scaling-global-impact-in-an-era-of-constraints--69616513In this special edition of This Week in Global Development, recorded at Davos, we explore a fundamental shift in the development landscape: the move from funding gaps to impact-driven results. As global economic constraints and fragmented cooperation redefine the sector, the conversation is no longer just about how much money can be mobilized, but how leadership and innovation can scale impact in a complex world.

Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Jim Larson, managing director and senior partner at BCG, to discuss the “impact pivot” of 2026. Larson outlines how successful players are moving beyond traditional aid by integrating generative artificial intelligence as core infrastructure and restructuring their "capital stacks" through blended finance and private sector partnerships.

From the necessity of market-driven efficiency to the rise of inclusive, localized coalitions, Larson shares case studies on how technology and innovative finance are moving the needle on global health. They also examine the specific characteristics defining successful development leaders in this new era of market imperatives.To hear more about the evolution of the development toolkit, listen to this conversation with Jim Larson on This Week in Global Development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69616513Tue, 27 Jan 2026 08:37:21 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special edition of https://www.devex.com/news/this-week-in-global-development-106893, recorded at Davos, we explore a fundamental shift in the development landscape: the move from funding gaps to impact-driven results. As global economic...In this special edition of This Week in Global Development, recorded at Davos, we explore a fundamental shift in the development landscape: the move from funding gaps to impact-driven results. As global economic constraints and fragmented cooperation redefine the sector, the conversation is no longer just about how much money can be mobilized, but how leadership and innovation can scale impact in a complex world.

Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Jim Larson, managing director and senior partner at BCG, to discuss the “impact pivot” of 2026. Larson outlines how successful players are moving beyond traditional aid by integrating generative artificial intelligence as core infrastructure and restructuring their "capital stacks" through blended finance and private sector partnerships.

From the necessity of market-driven efficiency to the rise of inclusive, localized coalitions, Larson shares case studies on how technology and innovative finance are moving the needle on global health. They also examine the specific characteristics defining successful development leaders in this new era of market imperatives.To hear more about the evolution of the development toolkit, listen to this conversation with Jim Larson on This Week in Global Development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2057bcg,davos,development,finance,weffalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-latest-from-the-world-economic-forum-meeting-in-davos--69544109This week, we are tuning in from Davos as we report from the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum. With Trump’s attendance and foreign policy dominating the summit, we discuss the most important updates for the global development community, including the Gates Foundation and OpenAI’s $50 million commitment to support AI-infused health programs across Africa.

We examine the year’s defining narratives — specifically the shift toward sovereign, country-led initiatives — and explain why the global development community’s presence at Davos is vital to ensuring these voices shape the new international order.

To bring you the latest from Davos, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Catherine Cheney sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Naana Otoo-Oyortey, Executive Director at Forward UK, whose leadership brings visibility and sustainable change for women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69544109Thu, 22 Jan 2026 10:51:41 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we are tuning in from Davos as we report from the annual meeting of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-economic-forum-46616. With Trump’s attendance and foreign policy dominating the summit, we discuss the most important updates...This week, we are tuning in from Davos as we report from the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum. With Trump’s attendance and foreign policy dominating the summit, we discuss the most important updates for the global development community, including the Gates Foundation and OpenAI’s $50 million commitment to support AI-infused health programs across Africa.

We examine the year’s defining narratives — specifically the shift toward sovereign, country-led initiatives — and explain why the global development community’s presence at Davos is vital to ensuring these voices shape the new international order.

To bring you the latest from Davos, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Catherine Cheney sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Naana Otoo-Oyortey, Executive Director at Forward UK, whose leadership brings visibility and sustainable change for women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1624davos,development,health,trump,weffalse127fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inside-the-us-foreign-aid-breakthrough-and-2b-commitment-to-the-un--69453817This week, U.S. lawmakers reached a deal on a $50 billion compromise foreign assistance bill. Even though the agreement implements a 16% reduction from what was approved by Congress last year, it defies President Donald Trump’s requested 47.7% gutting of the budget. Beyond the numbers, the bill signals a fundamental overhaul of how foreign assistance accounts are managed and structured.

From its ripple effects across the global health sector to the critical implications for the African Growth and Opportunity Act extension, we analyze the bill’s core priorities and its long-term impact on the global development landscape.

Beyond the U.S. budget, we also dive into a deal between Washington and the United Nations.  A confidential memorandum of understanding secures $2 billion in U.S. commitment for U.N. humanitarian funding through 2026. We explore where that money is going and what it tells us about U.N. priorities.

To dig into these stories, and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with reporters Adva Saldinger and Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Kate Warren sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Tonya Adair, President & CEO at Alternative for Girls, whose leadership addresses the basic needs of women and girls so they can lead healthy lives. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series: 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69453817Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:53:31 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, U.S. lawmakers https://www.devex.com/news/us-lawmakers-strike-50b-foreign-assistance-deal-surpassing-trump-s-plan-111671. Even though the agreement implements a 16% reduction from what was approved by Congress last year, it defies President...This week, U.S. lawmakers reached a deal on a $50 billion compromise foreign assistance bill. Even though the agreement implements a 16% reduction from what was approved by Congress last year, it defies President Donald Trump’s requested 47.7% gutting of the budget. Beyond the numbers, the bill signals a fundamental overhaul of how foreign assistance accounts are managed and structured.

From its ripple effects across the global health sector to the critical implications for the African Growth and Opportunity Act extension, we analyze the bill’s core priorities and its long-term impact on the global development landscape.

Beyond the U.S. budget, we also dive into a deal between Washington and the United Nations.  A confidential memorandum of understanding secures $2 billion in U.S. commitment for U.N. humanitarian funding through 2026. We explore where that money is going and what it tells us about U.N. priorities.

To dig into these stories, and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with reporters Adva Saldinger and Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Kate Warren sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Tonya Adair, President & CEO at Alternative for Girls, whose leadership addresses the basic needs of women and girls so they can lead healthy lives. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series: 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2166aid,development,trump,un,usafalse128fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-does-2026-hold-for-global-development--69356918In the first episode of the year, we look ahead to what we expect to happen in 2026 in global development. From more foreign aid cuts by traditional Western donors to a more transactional approach to development, we discuss what trends are set to shape the future of the sector. 

We identify the key players driving this transition from aid to investment, as well as contemplate the conditions necessary for the private sector to step up and fill the gap left by shrinking official development assistance.

Will the world’s billionaires increase their giving? Will development finally be locally led?

To look ahead to what 2026 holds for global development, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Managing Editor Anna Gawel for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Kate Warren sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Sophie Jenkins, International Programs Director at ChildFund Australia, whose leadership brings tailored health approaches throughout individuals’ life stages. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69356918Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:20:26 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn the first episode of the year, we look ahead to what we expect to happen in 2026 in global development. From more foreign aid cuts by traditional Western donors to a more transactional approach to development, we discuss what trends are set to...In the first episode of the year, we look ahead to what we expect to happen in 2026 in global development. From more foreign aid cuts by traditional Western donors to a more transactional approach to development, we discuss what trends are set to shape the future of the sector. 

We identify the key players driving this transition from aid to investment, as well as contemplate the conditions necessary for the private sector to step up and fill the gap left by shrinking official development assistance.

Will the world’s billionaires increase their giving? Will development finally be locally led?

To look ahead to what 2026 holds for global development, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Managing Editor Anna Gawel for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Kate Warren sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Sophie Jenkins, International Programs Director at ChildFund Australia, whose leadership brings tailored health approaches throughout individuals’ life stages. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2785aid,development,humanitarian,investmentfalse127fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/forget-quiet-quitting-the-state-department-appears-to-be-quiet-hiring--69102567In our final episode of 2025, we discuss a tumultuous year in U.S. foreign assistance. It has not always been clear who is calling the shots in the new world of U.S. development funding, but we break down who we believe are the key players in this moment of uncertainty.

We are also seeing that the State Department is rebuilding its workforce, and across the world, positions are opening up to fill the gaps created by the obliteration of the U.S. Agency for International Development. It’s all part of a messy scramble to reassemble the staff needed to oversee billions in foreign aid — and the first visible sign of a system trying to piece itself back together. 

To piece together these emerging clues about the future, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporter Michael Igoe and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, Devex's Kate Warren speaks with Terre des Hommes Netherlands' Asia regional director about the organization's commitment to creating systemic change to address the root causes of child exploitation, as well as the importance of a multi-stakeholder protection ecosystem.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69102567Wed, 17 Dec 2025 19:10:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn our final episode of 2025, we discuss a tumultuous year in U.S. foreign assistance. It has not always been clear who is calling the shots in the new world of U.S. development funding, but we break down who we believe are...In our final episode of 2025, we discuss a tumultuous year in U.S. foreign assistance. It has not always been clear who is calling the shots in the new world of U.S. development funding, but we break down who we believe are the key players in this moment of uncertainty.

We are also seeing that the State Department is rebuilding its workforce, and across the world, positions are opening up to fill the gaps created by the obliteration of the U.S. Agency for International Development. It’s all part of a messy scramble to reassemble the staff needed to oversee billions in foreign aid — and the first visible sign of a system trying to piece itself back together. 

To piece together these emerging clues about the future, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporter Michael Igoe and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, Devex's Kate Warren speaks with Terre des Hommes Netherlands' Asia regional director about the organization's commitment to creating systemic change to address the root causes of child exploitation, as well as the importance of a multi-stakeholder protection ecosystem.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2149aid,development,trump,usa,usaidfalse126fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-kenya-s-new-deals-with-the-us-and-the-latest-on-food-aid-cuts--68980885The U.S. State Department has signed a bilateral agreement with Kenya, its first in its ongoing efforts to overhaul how it provides global health assistance. The United States said it will invest up to $1.6 billion over five years in the East African country, with the Kenyan government cofinancing the agreement with $850 million. We take a look at how this controversial new approach could play out in practice, and how it could shape other agreements between the U.S. and other African states.

On the topic of Kenya, we also dig into the Kenyan government’s debt-for-food swap deal with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, worth $1 billion. The innovative arrangement allows the country to reduce part of its external debt in exchange for redirecting the savings into food security programs.

The State Department has decided to cut funding to organizations implementing programs to build resilience in chronically food-insecure regions, which will affect the budget of the U.S. government’s Food for Peace initiative. We explore the move’s implications, including the impact on U.S. farmers. 

For a deep dive into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

To mark Human Rights Day, Amazon’s director of human rights and social impact talks about Amazon’s human rights work, the systemic challenges facing global supply chains, and the role of responsible innovation in addressing them in the sponsored segment of the discussion.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68980885Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:04:14 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe U.S. State Department has https://www.devex.com/news/the-us-signs-first-bilateral-health-deal-with-kenya-for-1-6-billion-111510, its first in its ongoing efforts to overhaul how it provides global health assistance. The United States said it will...The U.S. State Department has signed a bilateral agreement with Kenya, its first in its ongoing efforts to overhaul how it provides global health assistance. The United States said it will invest up to $1.6 billion over five years in the East African country, with the Kenyan government cofinancing the agreement with $850 million. We take a look at how this controversial new approach could play out in practice, and how it could shape other agreements between the U.S. and other African states.

On the topic of Kenya, we also dig into the Kenyan government’s debt-for-food swap deal with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, worth $1 billion. The innovative arrangement allows the country to reduce part of its external debt in exchange for redirecting the savings into food security programs.

The State Department has decided to cut funding to organizations implementing programs to build resilience in chronically food-insecure regions, which will affect the budget of the U.S. government’s Food for Peace initiative. We explore the move’s implications, including the impact on U.S. farmers. 

For a deep dive into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

To mark Human Rights Day, Amazon’s director of human rights and social impact talks about Amazon’s human rights work, the systemic challenges facing global supply chains, and the role of responsible innovation in addressing them in the sponsored segment of the discussion.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1860aid,development,food,health,kenya,usafalse125fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/impact-of-hiv-funding-cuts-and-the-rise-of-digital-public-infrastructure--68882218We dig into the details of a new report published by UNAIDS, which found that donor funding cuts to the HIV response could lead to an additional 3.9 million new infections over the next five years, even if treatment coverage is maintained. The report, published on World AIDS Day 2025, called on governments to uphold human rights and urged funders to dedicate more resources to HIV prevention, including the highly effective twice-yearly injectable, lenacapavir.

Last week, the U.S. State Department announced a grant of up to $150 million to drone company Zipline to expand health supply operations in five African countries. We highlight how this decision could signal the Trump administration’s new approach to global health aid.

We also unpack how digital public infrastructure, or DPI, is becoming a vital development tool, and contemplate whether it can offer a more collaborative, cost-effective approach, especially given the recent cuts to foreign assistance. 

To explore these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney and Senior Reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo to discuss the top global development stories of the week. 

During the sponsored segment of This week in global development, brought to you by Pivotal, Catherine sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Lisel Lifshitz Gudiño, who is also the executive director of Mujeres Aliadas. Her leadership champions the midwifery practice, ensuring the delivery of safe, dignified, and culturally sensitive health care. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68882218Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:24:15 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWe dig into the details of a new report published by https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-programme-on-hiv-aids-unaids-23691, which found that donor funding cuts to the HIV response could lead to...We dig into the details of a new report published by UNAIDS, which found that donor funding cuts to the HIV response could lead to an additional 3.9 million new infections over the next five years, even if treatment coverage is maintained. The report, published on World AIDS Day 2025, called on governments to uphold human rights and urged funders to dedicate more resources to HIV prevention, including the highly effective twice-yearly injectable, lenacapavir.

Last week, the U.S. State Department announced a grant of up to $150 million to drone company Zipline to expand health supply operations in five African countries. We highlight how this decision could signal the Trump administration’s new approach to global health aid.

We also unpack how digital public infrastructure, or DPI, is becoming a vital development tool, and contemplate whether it can offer a more collaborative, cost-effective approach, especially given the recent cuts to foreign assistance. 

To explore these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney and Senior Reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo to discuss the top global development stories of the week. 

During the sponsored segment of This week in global development, brought to you by Pivotal, Catherine sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantee Lisel Lifshitz Gudiño, who is also the executive director of Mujeres Aliadas. Her leadership champions the midwifery practice, ensuring the delivery of safe, dignified, and culturally sensitive health care. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1915development,dpi,health,hiv,unaidsfalse124fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/g20-politics-and-the-future-of-unhcr--68769274This week, we unpack the major storylines emerging from the G20 Summit — the first ever held on African soil — where South Africa used its presidency to spotlight debt, inequality, climate, and critical minerals, even as the United States chose not to attend. With global development at an inflection point, leaders leaned into questions of how multilateralism must evolve as the global south asserts greater influence.

With the humanitarian system stretched thin and displacement at record highs, we also examine the race to lead the UN Refugee Agency. A crowded field — largely European, with one notable African contender — is competing to guide the agency through a period of severe funding constraints and rising political pressures.

During the conversation, we dig into what South Africa’s G20 agenda signals for future global cooperation, what’s at stake in the UNHCR leadership contest, and how shifting power dynamics could reshape the development landscape in the years ahead.

To break down these stories and more, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with colleagues Elissa Miolene and Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68769274Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:00:14 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we unpack the major storylines emerging from the G20 Summit — the first ever held on African soil — where South Africa used its presidency to spotlight debt, inequality, climate, and critical minerals, even as the United States chose not to...This week, we unpack the major storylines emerging from the G20 Summit — the first ever held on African soil — where South Africa used its presidency to spotlight debt, inequality, climate, and critical minerals, even as the United States chose not to attend. With global development at an inflection point, leaders leaned into questions of how multilateralism must evolve as the global south asserts greater influence.

With the humanitarian system stretched thin and displacement at record highs, we also examine the race to lead the UN Refugee Agency. A crowded field — largely European, with one notable African contender — is competing to guide the agency through a period of severe funding constraints and rising political pressures.

During the conversation, we dig into what South Africa’s G20 agenda signals for future global cooperation, what’s at stake in the UNHCR leadership contest, and how shifting power dynamics could reshape the development landscape in the years ahead.

To break down these stories and more, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with colleagues Elissa Miolene and Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1935development,g20,unfalse123fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trump-s-approach-to-global-health-and-the-latest-from-cop30--68672388This week, we take a look at the details of the new template for bilateral agreements between the United States and partner governments, which sheds light on the ideas floating around the Trump administration on how it will engage with other countries when it comes to global health. However, experts are raising concerns around its implementation. 

In our update from COP30, we discuss the conference’s most important highlights, including the latest commitments and progress on scaling climate finance. We also investigate whether the meeting is living up to its designation as the “Implementation COP.”

To dig into these stories, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie, who is on the ground at COP30, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Kate Warren sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantees Sabine Zink Bolonhini and Adriana Mallet Toueg, co-founders of SAS Brasil, whose leadership brings equity in healthcare by leveraging innovative solutions in access and care delivery. Learn more about the awardees.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68672388Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:04:00 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we take a look at the details of the https://www.devex.com/news/us-template-for-bilateral-health-deals-bypasses-who-pandemic-negotiations-111285 for bilateral agreements between the United States and partner governments, which sheds light...This week, we take a look at the details of the new template for bilateral agreements between the United States and partner governments, which sheds light on the ideas floating around the Trump administration on how it will engage with other countries when it comes to global health. However, experts are raising concerns around its implementation. 

In our update from COP30, we discuss the conference’s most important highlights, including the latest commitments and progress on scaling climate finance. We also investigate whether the meeting is living up to its designation as the “Implementation COP.”

To dig into these stories, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie, who is on the ground at COP30, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

During the sponsored segment of This Week in Global Development, brought to you by Pivotal, Kate Warren sits down with Action for Women’s Health grantees Sabine Zink Bolonhini and Adriana Mallet Toueg, co-founders of SAS Brasil, whose leadership brings equity in healthcare by leveraging innovative solutions in access and care delivery. Learn more about the awardees.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1468climate,cop30,development,health,trumpfalse122fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-can-ai-safely-support-mental-health--68643312This Week in Global Development podcast, we dive into a fast-moving and timely question at the intersection of technology and health care: Can artificial intelligence safely support mental health? 

Hosted in partnership with PATH, Devex Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney speaks with Bilal Mateen, chief AI officer at PATH, Miranda Wolpert, director of mental health at Wellcome, and Christelna Reynecke, COO at the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, about the role AI can play in addressing the global mental health gap. 

Around the world, millions lack access to timely, quality mental health support, and AI tools could help extend care in ways previously out of reach. But the risks are real. We’ve already seen some unregulated tools cross into treatment claims, blur regulatory lines, and, in rare but tragic cases, cause harm. 

This episode explores both sides: The promise of AI to expand access and the safeguards, standards, and oversight required to make that promise real, without leaving patients to absorb the risk.
To hear more, listen to this conversation with Bilal Mateen, Christelna Reynecke, and Miranda Wolpert for the This Week in Global Development podcast.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68643312Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:24:11 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special episode of the https://www.devex.com/news/this-week-in-global-development-106893, we dive into a fast-moving and timely question at the intersection of technology and health care: Can https://www.devex.com/focus/artificialintelligence...This Week in Global Development podcast, we dive into a fast-moving and timely question at the intersection of technology and health care: Can artificial intelligence safely support mental health? 

Hosted in partnership with PATH, Devex Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney speaks with Bilal Mateen, chief AI officer at PATH, Miranda Wolpert, director of mental health at Wellcome, and Christelna Reynecke, COO at the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, about the role AI can play in addressing the global mental health gap. 

Around the world, millions lack access to timely, quality mental health support, and AI tools could help extend care in ways previously out of reach. But the risks are real. We’ve already seen some unregulated tools cross into treatment claims, blur regulatory lines, and, in rare but tragic cases, cause harm. 

This episode explores both sides: The promise of AI to expand access and the safeguards, standards, and oversight required to make that promise real, without leaving patients to absorb the risk.
To hear more, listen to this conversation with Bilal Mateen, Christelna Reynecke, and Miranda Wolpert for the This Week in Global Development podcast.]]>2090falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/on-the-ground-at-cop30-the-latest-on-climate-finance-and-deciphering-the-jargon--68563749This week we are on the ground at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP30, in Belém, Brazil, where the intense heat and daily thunderstorms offer an “immersive experience” of the climate crisis right at the conference’s doorstep. 

In this episode, hosted by Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren, reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz highlight the key talking points at the conference, including the latest on the loss and damage fund and how multilateral development banks are financing climate action. 

We also decipher the jargon around climate action for our global development audience, breaking down key acronyms such as NDCs and the controversial new investment fund, TFFF.

The sponsored segment of the conversation is brought to you by Pivotal and its Action for Women’s Health initiative to discuss innovations shaping the future of women’s health.
In this episode, Devex Senior Editor Catherine Cheney sits down with recently awarded grantee, Serah Joy Malaba, co-CEO of Tiko, whose leadership is deeply rooted in personal experience, fueling her commitment to ensure girls have the best chance for success. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series — starting at the 12:37 mark.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68563749Fri, 14 Nov 2025 10:28:54 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we are on the ground at the https://www.devex.com/focus/climatechange, or COP30, in Belém, Brazil, where the intense heat and daily thunderstorms offer an “immersive experience” of the climate crisis right at the conference’s doorstep.  In...This week we are on the ground at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP30, in Belém, Brazil, where the intense heat and daily thunderstorms offer an “immersive experience” of the climate crisis right at the conference’s doorstep. 

In this episode, hosted by Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren, reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz highlight the key talking points at the conference, including the latest on the loss and damage fund and how multilateral development banks are financing climate action. 

We also decipher the jargon around climate action for our global development audience, breaking down key acronyms such as NDCs and the controversial new investment fund, TFFF.

The sponsored segment of the conversation is brought to you by Pivotal and its Action for Women’s Health initiative to discuss innovations shaping the future of women’s health.
In this episode, Devex Senior Editor Catherine Cheney sits down with recently awarded grantee, Serah Joy Malaba, co-CEO of Tiko, whose leadership is deeply rooted in personal experience, fueling her commitment to ensure girls have the best chance for success. Learn more about the awardees and explore the content series — starting at the 12:37 mark.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2211belem,brazil,climate,cop30,developmentfalse121fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-innovation-in-action-scaling-climate-solutions-from-the-ground-up--68557352This week in global development podcast, filmed at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, and hosted in partnership with CropLife International, we explore the expanding role of agricultural innovation — including advances in plant science, crop protection, biotechnology, and digital and precision tools — in helping farmers adapt to climate stress and maintain productivity. 

Devex Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Laurie Goodwin, vice president of public affairs and communications at CropLife International, about how innovation and open trade can work together to build climate-resilient food systems. 

The episode also introduces a new practical guide that compiles global examples of policy approaches that strengthen sustainable agricultural growth and support climate, productivity, and resilience goals. Across the discussion, the importance of collaboration among governments, the private sector, and farmers is emphasized as essential for delivering measurable on-the-ground outcomes — not only at COP30, but across the wider set of global forums connecting climate, trade, and food security agendas.

To hear more, listen to this conversation with Laurie Goodwin on this special podcast episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68557352Thu, 13 Nov 2025 20:03:53 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this week’s special episode of the https://www.devex.com/news/this-week-in-global-development-106893, filmed at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, and hosted in partnership with https://croplife.org/, we explore the expanding role of agricultural innovation —...This week in global development podcast, filmed at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, and hosted in partnership with CropLife International, we explore the expanding role of agricultural innovation — including advances in plant science, crop protection, biotechnology, and digital and precision tools — in helping farmers adapt to climate stress and maintain productivity. 

Devex Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Laurie Goodwin, vice president of public affairs and communications at CropLife International, about how innovation and open trade can work together to build climate-resilient food systems. 

The episode also introduces a new practical guide that compiles global examples of policy approaches that strengthen sustainable agricultural growth and support climate, productivity, and resilience goals. Across the discussion, the importance of collaboration among governments, the private sector, and farmers is emphasized as essential for delivering measurable on-the-ground outcomes — not only at COP30, but across the wider set of global forums connecting climate, trade, and food security agendas.

To hear more, listen to this conversation with Laurie Goodwin on this special podcast episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>999falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/after-2025-s-seismic-shock-what-s-next-for-development-and-aid--68458572On the sidelines of the World Economic Forum’s Humanitarian and Resilience Investing Initiative’s Frontier Markets Impact Meeting in Geneva, Devex teamed up with Radio Davos for a special podcast episode. The conversation was cohosted by Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Radio Davos host Robin Pomeroy.

Driven by shrinking government aid and escalating global needs, the global development sector is facing serious financing headwinds — a financial shock wave comparable to the 2008 crisis. 

These changes are fundamentally altering the global development architecture, forcing a pivot away from reliance on official development assistance. 

To maintain progress, the discussion highlighted the crucial need to mobilize private capital and build trust-based, sustainable financial systems.

To explore these critical shifts, they sat down with Carla Haddad Mardini, director of UNICEF's private fundraising and partnerships, and Julienne Oyler, CEO of Inkomoko.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68458572Fri, 07 Nov 2025 08:44:21 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentOn the sidelines of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-economic-forum-46616’s Humanitarian and Resilience Investing Initiative’s Frontier Markets Impact Meeting in Geneva, Devex teamed up with Radio Davos for a special podcast episode. The...On the sidelines of the World Economic Forum’s Humanitarian and Resilience Investing Initiative’s Frontier Markets Impact Meeting in Geneva, Devex teamed up with Radio Davos for a special podcast episode. The conversation was cohosted by Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Radio Davos host Robin Pomeroy.

Driven by shrinking government aid and escalating global needs, the global development sector is facing serious financing headwinds — a financial shock wave comparable to the 2008 crisis. 

These changes are fundamentally altering the global development architecture, forcing a pivot away from reliance on official development assistance. 

To maintain progress, the discussion highlighted the crucial need to mobilize private capital and build trust-based, sustainable financial systems.

To explore these critical shifts, they sat down with Carla Haddad Mardini, director of UNICEF's private fundraising and partnerships, and Julienne Oyler, CEO of Inkomoko.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2418aid,davos,development,finance,usaid,weffalse120fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-potential-exodus-of-ngos-from-the-us-and-the-rise-of-authoritarianism--68351064This week, we reported that U.S.-based international nonprofits are looking into registering sister organizations overseas as they face an increasingly unpredictable political environment at home. Law firms in Canada and the United Kingdom confirm this trend, telling Devex they’ve seen increased interest from U.S. entities seeking to set up international arms amid growing domestic instability.

With authoritarian practices on the rise and civic spaces closing, we reflect on the key takeaways from the Trust Conference in London, where the international community gathered to learn from each other’s lessons when it comes to fighting autocracy.

We also look ahead to the Second World Summit for Social Development 2025 and examine what its core themes and expected outcomes mean for the global development agenda.

To explore these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68351064Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:41:22 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we reported that U.S.-based international nonprofits are looking into https://www.devex.com/news/us-nonprofits-seek-refuge-abroad-111200 as they face an increasingly unpredictable political environment at home. Law firms in Canada and the...This week, we reported that U.S.-based international nonprofits are looking into registering sister organizations overseas as they face an increasingly unpredictable political environment at home. Law firms in Canada and the United Kingdom confirm this trend, telling Devex they’ve seen increased interest from U.S. entities seeking to set up international arms amid growing domestic instability.

With authoritarian practices on the rise and civic spaces closing, we reflect on the key takeaways from the Trust Conference in London, where the international community gathered to learn from each other’s lessons when it comes to fighting autocracy.

We also look ahead to the Second World Summit for Social Development 2025 and examine what its core themes and expected outcomes mean for the global development agenda.

To explore these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1919aid,authoritarianism,development,ngos,usafalse119fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-pivotal-ventures-on-funding-the-future-of-women-s-health--68316959
Women spend 25% more of their lives in poor health than men, due to underfunded research, diagnostic biases, and policies that fail to prioritize their needs. The result: Llimits on women’s ability to lead, work, and participate fully in society.

Hosted in partnership with Pivotal Ventures, Devex Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Haven Ley, chief strategy officer at Pivotal Ventures, and Cecilia Conrad, CEO of Lever for Change, about how reimagining women’s health care can reshape opportunity for entire communities.
Their conversation highlights Action for Women’s Health — a $250 million global open call launched by Pivotal Ventures and Lever for Change to identify and fund community-driven solutions that improve women’s mental and physical health. The initiative drew over 4,000 applications from 119 countries, surfacing innovations in areas from maternal and mental health to menopause and caregiving.

As global aid declines and funding for women’s health remains scarce, Ley and Conrad argue that this bottom-up, participatory funding model offers a more equitable way to center women’s voices and needs. Their message: the ideas and solutions already exist — what’s needed now is more capital and commitment to bring them to scale.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68316959Tue, 28 Oct 2025 20:19:43 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this week’s special edition of the This Week in Global Development podcast, we explore how investing in women’s health is not just a health issue — it’s about power, agency, and opportunity.  Women spend 25% more of their lives in poor health than...
Women spend 25% more of their lives in poor health than men, due to underfunded research, diagnostic biases, and policies that fail to prioritize their needs. The result: Llimits on women’s ability to lead, work, and participate fully in society.

Hosted in partnership with Pivotal Ventures, Devex Executive Editor Kate Warren speaks with Haven Ley, chief strategy officer at Pivotal Ventures, and Cecilia Conrad, CEO of Lever for Change, about how reimagining women’s health care can reshape opportunity for entire communities.
Their conversation highlights Action for Women’s Health — a $250 million global open call launched by Pivotal Ventures and Lever for Change to identify and fund community-driven solutions that improve women’s mental and physical health. The initiative drew over 4,000 applications from 119 countries, surfacing innovations in areas from maternal and mental health to menopause and caregiving.

As global aid declines and funding for women’s health remains scarce, Ley and Conrad argue that this bottom-up, participatory funding model offers a more equitable way to center women’s voices and needs. Their message: the ideas and solutions already exist — what’s needed now is more capital and commitment to bring them to scale.]]>1962falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-impact-of-aid-cuts-un-reform-and-the-role-of-philanthropy--68254180This week, we explore the ins and outs of UN80, the United Nations' reform plan to cut costs and boost efficiency. We outline what this initiative, drafted as a result of funding cuts to the institution, involves in practice.

On the topic of foreign aid cuts, we have also been following the calls for philanthropy to fill the void left by traditional donors, most notably the United States. We discuss that while some foundations, such as the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, are halting U.S. funding over policy uncertainty, we are also witnessing lifesaving programs continuing to operate thanks to philanthropy organizations stepping up their funding.

In order to dig into these stories, and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch and Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68254180Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:19:12 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we explore the ins and outs of UN80, https://www.devex.com/news/un80-and-the-incredible-shrinking-united-nations-110714 to cut costs and boost efficiency. We outline what this initiative, drafted as a result of...This week, we explore the ins and outs of UN80, the United Nations' reform plan to cut costs and boost efficiency. We outline what this initiative, drafted as a result of funding cuts to the institution, involves in practice.

On the topic of foreign aid cuts, we have also been following the calls for philanthropy to fill the void left by traditional donors, most notably the United States. We discuss that while some foundations, such as the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, are halting U.S. funding over policy uncertainty, we are also witnessing lifesaving programs continuing to operate thanks to philanthropy organizations stepping up their funding.

In order to dig into these stories, and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch and Senior Editor for Special Coverage Catherine Cheney for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1966aid,development,philanthropy,unfalse118fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/live-from-the-world-bank-annual-meetings-the-debates-dominating-washington--68167721This week, we are on the ground at the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings, closely following the conversations that will shape the global development sector.

As we note a reduced focus on climate change policy compared to previous years, we are tracking how the conversation is pivoting, with climate issues now being approached through an energy security angle.

In addition to examining the World Bank’s ongoing focus on global job creation, we highlight our exclusive on-the-sidelines interview at Devex Impact House with U.S. Rep. French Hill, a Republican from Arkansas, who shared insights on the Trump administration’s “America First” approach to foreign assistance, providing a Republican perspective on U.S. engagement in global development.

In order to discuss the key talking points at the annual meetings, Devex’s Adva Saldinger sits down with Michael Igoe and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our podcast series, recorded live at Devex Impact House on the sidelines of the main summit.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68167721Thu, 16 Oct 2025 17:26:15 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we are on the ground at the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382-https://www.devex.com/organizations/international-monetary-fund-imf-44300 annual meetings, closely following the conversations that will shape the global...This week, we are on the ground at the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings, closely following the conversations that will shape the global development sector.

As we note a reduced focus on climate change policy compared to previous years, we are tracking how the conversation is pivoting, with climate issues now being approached through an energy security angle.

In addition to examining the World Bank’s ongoing focus on global job creation, we highlight our exclusive on-the-sidelines interview at Devex Impact House with U.S. Rep. French Hill, a Republican from Arkansas, who shared insights on the Trump administration’s “America First” approach to foreign assistance, providing a Republican perspective on U.S. engagement in global development.

In order to discuss the key talking points at the annual meetings, Devex’s Adva Saldinger sits down with Michael Igoe and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our podcast series, recorded live at Devex Impact House on the sidelines of the main summit.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1476development,financefalse117fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-a-conversation-with-the-mines-advisory-group--68092320Mines Advisory Group, or MAG, recipient of the 2025 Hilton Humanitarian Prize — the world’s largest annual humanitarian award. MAG’s work clearing land mines and unexploded ordnance has saved lives and restored livelihoods in post-conflict communities for more than three decades.

In a special episode sponsored by the Hilton Foundation, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar speaks with MAG CEO Darren Cormack about what the $3 million unrestricted prize means for the organization, the growing risks civilians face from land mines in conflicts such as Ukraine, Syria, and Sudan, and how new technologies —from drones to artificial intelligence — are helping speed up mine clearance.

Cormack reflects on rising global conflict levels, threats to international humanitarian law, and why mine action remains both a moral and developmental imperative — enabling farmers to work safely, children to return to school, and displaced people to rebuild their lives.

To hear more, listen to this conversation with Darren Cormack on This Week in Global Development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68092320Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:44:42 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this week’s special edition of the This Week in Global Development podcast, we spotlight the https://www.devex.com/organizations/mines-advisory-group-mag-48260, or MAG, recipient of the 2025 Hilton Humanitarian Prize — the world’s largest annual...Mines Advisory Group, or MAG, recipient of the 2025 Hilton Humanitarian Prize — the world’s largest annual humanitarian award. MAG’s work clearing land mines and unexploded ordnance has saved lives and restored livelihoods in post-conflict communities for more than three decades.

In a special episode sponsored by the Hilton Foundation, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar speaks with MAG CEO Darren Cormack about what the $3 million unrestricted prize means for the organization, the growing risks civilians face from land mines in conflicts such as Ukraine, Syria, and Sudan, and how new technologies —from drones to artificial intelligence — are helping speed up mine clearance.

Cormack reflects on rising global conflict levels, threats to international humanitarian law, and why mine action remains both a moral and developmental imperative — enabling farmers to work safely, children to return to school, and displaced people to rebuild their lives.

To hear more, listen to this conversation with Darren Cormack on This Week in Global Development.]]>1454humanitarian,minesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-ahead-to-the-world-bank-and-imf-meetings--68083871This week on the podcast, we unpack what to watch during the World Bank and International Monetary Fund annual meetings in Washington, D.C. — from shifting global growth forecasts to reforms across multilateral development banks. As the fall meetings kick off, leaders in development finance are looking closely at how the World Bank is reshaping itself to mobilize more private capital and move faster on project approvals.

Amid ongoing reforms, attention is turning to how new tools such as securitizations and guarantee instruments can attract institutional investors while balancing the needs of borrowing countries. The conversation also explores the ways investors are seeking to value ecosystems alongside traditional climate assets, and how differences between U.S. and European markets are shaping approaches to ESG, or environmental, social, and governance, and climate investment.

To discuss these developments, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Elissa Miolene and J.P. Morgan’s Faheen Allibhoy for the latest episode of This Week in Global Development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68083871Thu, 09 Oct 2025 21:47:44 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week on the podcast, we unpack what to watch during the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 and https://www.devex.com/organizations/international-monetary-fund-imf-44300 annual meetings in Washington, D.C. — from shifting...This week on the podcast, we unpack what to watch during the World Bank and International Monetary Fund annual meetings in Washington, D.C. — from shifting global growth forecasts to reforms across multilateral development banks. As the fall meetings kick off, leaders in development finance are looking closely at how the World Bank is reshaping itself to mobilize more private capital and move faster on project approvals.

Amid ongoing reforms, attention is turning to how new tools such as securitizations and guarantee instruments can attract institutional investors while balancing the needs of borrowing countries. The conversation also explores the ways investors are seeking to value ecosystems alongside traditional climate assets, and how differences between U.S. and European markets are shaping approaches to ESG, or environmental, social, and governance, and climate investment.

To discuss these developments, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Elissa Miolene and J.P. Morgan’s Faheen Allibhoy for the latest episode of This Week in Global Development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1892false116fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/could-taxes-fix-the-global-health-funding-crisis--67985522This week, we discuss the details of the “Accra Reset,” an effort to declare an end to the era of development-as-usual and to push for the creation of new governance, business, and financing models. With traditional donors cutting foreign assistance, African nations and others are using the initiative to jointly invest, design, and create solutions with external partners.

With official development assistance plummeting, governments are under pressure to make up their global health funding shortfall through taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary beverages.  However, these levies may not be a financial panacea.

During the conversation, we also look back at how U.S. objections stalled the long-negotiated United Nations declaration on noncommunicable diseases, sending it to a full General Assembly vote this month, and look ahead to the World Health Summit.
To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and contributing reporter Andrew Green for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67985522Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:38:33 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we discuss https://www.devex.com/news/the-accra-reset-time-s-up-for-the-legacy-aid-system-110845 an effort to declare an end to the era of development-as-usual and to push for the creation of new governance, business, and financing models....This week, we discuss the details of the “Accra Reset,” an effort to declare an end to the era of development-as-usual and to push for the creation of new governance, business, and financing models. With traditional donors cutting foreign assistance, African nations and others are using the initiative to jointly invest, design, and create solutions with external partners.

With official development assistance plummeting, governments are under pressure to make up their global health funding shortfall through taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary beverages.  However, these levies may not be a financial panacea.

During the conversation, we also look back at how U.S. objections stalled the long-negotiated United Nations declaration on noncommunicable diseases, sending it to a full General Assembly vote this month, and look ahead to the World Health Summit.
To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and contributing reporter Andrew Green for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1412aid,development,health,taxes,ungafalse115fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unga-80-trump-climate-and-the-biggest-headlines-from-the-summit--67901152This week we are on the ground in New York to cover the 80th United Nations General Assembly and Climate Week. 

Our discussion breaks down President Donald Trump’s address at the summit, where he called climate change a hoax, denounced Europe’s energy policies, and focused on the urgent need to address uncontrolled migration.

The global drive for emissions reduction is moving forward despite the Trump administration's stance on climate action, with high emitters, including China, submitting their Nationally Determined Contributions, or their climate action plans to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

To dig into these stories and catch up on what’s happening at UNGA80, senior editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with senior global reporter Colum Lynch and global development reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Note on episode: David Lammy’s current title is deputy prime minister, not prime minister as mentioned in the episode.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67901152Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:17:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we are on the ground in New York to cover the 80th United Nations General Assembly and Climate Week.  Our discussion breaks down https://www.devex.com/news/special-edition-unga-pressure-from-trump-110896, where he called climate change a...This week we are on the ground in New York to cover the 80th United Nations General Assembly and Climate Week. 

Our discussion breaks down President Donald Trump’s address at the summit, where he called climate change a hoax, denounced Europe’s energy policies, and focused on the urgent need to address uncontrolled migration.

The global drive for emissions reduction is moving forward despite the Trump administration's stance on climate action, with high emitters, including China, submitting their Nationally Determined Contributions, or their climate action plans to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

To dig into these stories and catch up on what’s happening at UNGA80, senior editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with senior global reporter Colum Lynch and global development reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Note on episode: David Lammy’s current title is deputy prime minister, not prime minister as mentioned in the episode.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1265climate,development,trump,unga,unga80false114fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/live-from-unga80-what-s-at-stake-for-global-development--67854311This week, the Devex team is on the ground at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. On the sidelines of the high-level talks, we are hosting a series of events with some of the most influential voices in global development at our dedicated venue, Devex Impact House. 

From the future of foreign assistance to the latest plan to reform the U.N., we discuss the forces shaping the sector and defining a new era of global development. This comes amid President Donald Trump's plans to reshape the international system, with a clear focus on reducing foreign aid and challenging long-standing international norms.

With the U.S. appearing to retreat from the U.N., we explore who the contenders are to fill the gap left by the world’s largest economy. 

To explore the key conversations we are following at UNGA, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch, as well as Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar, for this special episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67854311Mon, 22 Sep 2025 18:30:23 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, the Devex team is on the ground at the 80th https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-un-41567 General Assembly in New York. On the sidelines of the high-level talks, we are hosting a series of events with some of the most...This week, the Devex team is on the ground at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. On the sidelines of the high-level talks, we are hosting a series of events with some of the most influential voices in global development at our dedicated venue, Devex Impact House. 

From the future of foreign assistance to the latest plan to reform the U.N., we discuss the forces shaping the sector and defining a new era of global development. This comes amid President Donald Trump's plans to reshape the international system, with a clear focus on reducing foreign aid and challenging long-standing international norms.

With the U.S. appearing to retreat from the U.N., we explore who the contenders are to fill the gap left by the world’s largest economy. 

To explore the key conversations we are following at UNGA, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch, as well as Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar, for this special episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1770development,trump,unga,unga80falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-ahead-to-the-high-level-meetings-of-80th-united-nations-general-assembly--67819182This week, we take a look at the key talking points ahead of the high-level meetings of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. From the Trump administration’s cutting of funding to international organizations to China’s desire to increase its influence at the U.N., we discuss the conversations that we will be following that are most relevant to the global development community.

During the discussion, we also explored some of the conversations that may not get the attention they deserve, including reforming the global debt architecture and securing the future of humanitarian funding. 

To look ahead to UNGA 80, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch and Allison Lombardo, former deputy assistant secretary at the State Department, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Together, they break down the diplomatic challenges and highlight negotiations that will shape this year’s discussions.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67819182Fri, 19 Sep 2025 08:26:47 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we take a look at the key talking points ahead of the high-level meetings of the 80th session of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-un-41567 General Assembly. From the Trump administration’s cutting of funding to...This week, we take a look at the key talking points ahead of the high-level meetings of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. From the Trump administration’s cutting of funding to international organizations to China’s desire to increase its influence at the U.N., we discuss the conversations that we will be following that are most relevant to the global development community.

During the discussion, we also explored some of the conversations that may not get the attention they deserve, including reforming the global debt architecture and securing the future of humanitarian funding. 

To look ahead to UNGA 80, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch and Allison Lombardo, former deputy assistant secretary at the State Department, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Together, they break down the diplomatic challenges and highlight negotiations that will shape this year’s discussions.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2163development,trump,un,unga,unga80false113fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-africa-climate-summit-and-a-new-legal-test-for-the-trump-administration--67704877This week, we were at the Africa Climate Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, closely following the stories that matter most to the global development community. From forging a unified voice ahead of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference to how carbon markets could transform climate action on the continent, we discuss the key takeaways from the conference.

In the United States, we continue to follow a key lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's foreign aid spending — or lack thereof. The case, which is a test of the executive branch's power over government spending, is now headed to the Supreme Court. The administration asked the highest court to intervene after a lower court compelled it to spend foreign assistance funds that Congress had already appropriated. We take a look at where the case stands and what might happen next. 

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up for Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67704877Thu, 11 Sep 2025 17:04:40 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we were at the Africa Climate Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, closely following the stories that matter most to the global development community. From forging a unified voice ahead of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference to...This week, we were at the Africa Climate Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, closely following the stories that matter most to the global development community. From forging a unified voice ahead of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference to how carbon markets could transform climate action on the continent, we discuss the key takeaways from the conference.

In the United States, we continue to follow a key lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's foreign aid spending — or lack thereof. The case, which is a test of the executive branch's power over government spending, is now headed to the Supreme Court. The administration asked the highest court to intervene after a lower court compelled it to spend foreign assistance funds that Congress had already appropriated. We take a look at where the case stands and what might happen next. 

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up for Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1730aid,climate,development,trumpfalse112fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-the-us-budget-deadlock-explained--67698714The negotiation and approval of the U.S. budget is a complex process, filled with political bargaining and high-stakes showdowns that can have a profound impact far beyond Washington. This process directly shapes funding for foreign aid, global health, and humanitarian crises around the world.

With the Trump administration proposing a “pocket rescission” package that would cut an additional $5 billion from foreign assistance, its approval would have a significant impact on the global development sector.

To gain insight into the complexities of the U.S. budget and its implications for the development sector, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporters Adva Saldinger and Michael Igoe for this special episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67698714Wed, 10 Sep 2025 09:11:00 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe negotiation and approval of the U.S. budget is a complex process, filled with political bargaining and high-stakes showdowns that can have a profound impact far beyond Washington. This process directly shapes funding for foreign aid, global...The negotiation and approval of the U.S. budget is a complex process, filled with political bargaining and high-stakes showdowns that can have a profound impact far beyond Washington. This process directly shapes funding for foreign aid, global health, and humanitarian crises around the world.

With the Trump administration proposing a “pocket rescission” package that would cut an additional $5 billion from foreign assistance, its approval would have a significant impact on the global development sector.

To gain insight into the complexities of the U.S. budget and its implications for the development sector, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporters Adva Saldinger and Michael Igoe for this special episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1869aid,budget,development,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-beyond-malaria-africa-s-shift-to-integrated-mosquito-management--67690229according to the World Health Organization.

Experts now argue it’s time to shift from disease-centric, indoor mosquito management to more robust integrated mosquito management strategies. That means taking a tiered approach, starting with reducing mosquito breeding sites, treating water sources with larvicides, and then targeting adult mosquitoes. “The tendency will probably be to think about controlling mosquitoes when they are flying only. But they are actually more vulnerable when they are not flying, usually when they are in the water,” explained Silas Majambere, EMEA Health Business Manager at Valent BioSciences.

This approach, known as larval source management, has proven both cost-effective and sustainable. "The conversation is shifting away from just talking about a disease and saying, how do we take those limited public health dollars and manage the mosquito so that we can manage multiple diseases for those dollars?" said Jason Clark, Managing Director for global public health and forest health at Valent BioSciences.Some countries are already moving in this direction.

In Benin, the government is framing mosquito control not just as a health issue but as an economic one. The government is focusing on tourism as one of the key pillars of growth for the country, and the presence of mosquito-borne diseases is a direct threat to that, explained Sinde Chekete, advisor to the President of Benin. “We believe that investing in mosquito control will ultimately bring resources, will bring revenue, because we'll be able to welcome more tourists… and reduce the overall cost of malaria,” he said.

Chekete, Majambere, and Clark joined Devex executive editor Kate Warren to discuss the shift toward integrated mosquito management in a special Devex podcast episode sponsored by Valent BioSciences.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67690229Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:17:16 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFor decades, Africa's malaria strategy has focused almost exclusively on disease control through indoor mosquito management and personal protection — bed nets, indoor spraying, and individual-level interventions. But this approach alone isn’t working....according to the World Health Organization.

Experts now argue it’s time to shift from disease-centric, indoor mosquito management to more robust integrated mosquito management strategies. That means taking a tiered approach, starting with reducing mosquito breeding sites, treating water sources with larvicides, and then targeting adult mosquitoes. “The tendency will probably be to think about controlling mosquitoes when they are flying only. But they are actually more vulnerable when they are not flying, usually when they are in the water,” explained Silas Majambere, EMEA Health Business Manager at Valent BioSciences.

This approach, known as larval source management, has proven both cost-effective and sustainable. "The conversation is shifting away from just talking about a disease and saying, how do we take those limited public health dollars and manage the mosquito so that we can manage multiple diseases for those dollars?" said Jason Clark, Managing Director for global public health and forest health at Valent BioSciences.Some countries are already moving in this direction.

In Benin, the government is framing mosquito control not just as a health issue but as an economic one. The government is focusing on tourism as one of the key pillars of growth for the country, and the presence of mosquito-borne diseases is a direct threat to that, explained Sinde Chekete, advisor to the President of Benin. “We believe that investing in mosquito control will ultimately bring resources, will bring revenue, because we'll be able to welcome more tourists… and reduce the overall cost of malaria,” he said.

Chekete, Majambere, and Clark joined Devex executive editor Kate Warren to discuss the shift toward integrated mosquito management in a special Devex podcast episode sponsored by Valent BioSciences.]]>2125falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-era-at-the-african-development-bank-and-trump-s-rescission-package--67642020This week, Akinwumi Adesina stepped down as the chief of the African Development Bank after a 10-year tenure. He was replaced by Sidi Ould Tah at the helm of the institution, who is promising reform, new partnerships, and a focus on jobs — even as the bank confronts tight budgets and a looming African Development Fund replenishment.

In the United States, the Trump administration proposed another $5 billion cut to foreign aid spending through a move known as a “pocket rescission.” This proposal builds on the cancellation of roughly $8 billion in foreign aid funding in July. We take a look at the controversial maneuver, which has not been used since 1977.

To dig into these stories, and others, David Ainsworth sits down with Michael Igoe and Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67642020Fri, 05 Sep 2025 08:29:58 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, Akinwumi Adesina https://www.devex.com/news/the-bow-tie-bows-out-adesina-s-10-years-at-afdb-110719#Echobox=1756730008 as the chief of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/african-development-bank-afdb-19838 after a 10-year tenure. He was...This week, Akinwumi Adesina stepped down as the chief of the African Development Bank after a 10-year tenure. He was replaced by Sidi Ould Tah at the helm of the institution, who is promising reform, new partnerships, and a focus on jobs — even as the bank confronts tight budgets and a looming African Development Fund replenishment.

In the United States, the Trump administration proposed another $5 billion cut to foreign aid spending through a move known as a “pocket rescission.” This proposal builds on the cancellation of roughly $8 billion in foreign aid funding in July. We take a look at the controversial maneuver, which has not been used since 1977.

To dig into these stories, and others, David Ainsworth sits down with Michael Igoe and Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1428africa,aid,development,finance,trumpfalse111fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-un80-and-how-emerging-donors-are-reshaping-the-aid-landscape--67551004This week, we take a look at the details of the latest United Nations reform, the UN80 Initiative, which is designed to make the organization more efficient. Unofficially, it’s also a move to convince the Trump administration not to cut U.N. funding even further. However, the initiative is unlikely to satisfy anyone. 

Meanwhile, China, the U.N.’s largest financial contributor, is pushing for a greater role at the organization, painting the U.S. as a threat to multilateralism. The country has been stepping up demands for more jobs at the institution for Chinese nationals.

We also discuss how emerging donors are reshaping the aid landscape, blending commercial aims with development goals in ways that look different from traditional partners. As Western aid recedes, their rise brings new resources, priorities, and trade-offs.

To analyze these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67551004Fri, 29 Aug 2025 08:24:32 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we https://www.devex.com/news/un80-and-the-incredible-shrinking-united-nations-110714 of the latest https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-un-41567reform, the UN80 Initiative, which is designed to make the organization more...This week, we take a look at the details of the latest United Nations reform, the UN80 Initiative, which is designed to make the organization more efficient. Unofficially, it’s also a move to convince the Trump administration not to cut U.N. funding even further. However, the initiative is unlikely to satisfy anyone. 

Meanwhile, China, the U.N.’s largest financial contributor, is pushing for a greater role at the organization, painting the U.S. as a threat to multilateralism. The country has been stepping up demands for more jobs at the institution for Chinese nationals.

We also discuss how emerging donors are reshaping the aid landscape, blending commercial aims with development goals in ways that look different from traditional partners. As Western aid recedes, their rise brings new resources, priorities, and trade-offs.

To analyze these stories, and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2128aid,china,development,donors,un80,unga80false110fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trump-s-plan-for-unga-and-the-impact-of-aid-cuts-on-refugees-in-malawi--67475960This week takes a look at an internal email seen by Devex, which outlines the U.S. Department of State’s priorities for the United Nations General Assembly. In addition to not mentioning the world “development,” the Trump administration is calling for a “fundamental rethink” of the international humanitarian system, and a decreased reliance on the country that was once the world’s largest donor.

We also discuss the dire humanitarian situation of refugees in Malawi, who are facing slashed food rations and shrinking health and protection services due to U.S. aid cuts. This crisis, particularly severe in the overcrowded Dzaleka refugee camp, is pushing a vulnerable population to the brink. With food assistance drastically reduced, many are resorting to desperate survival tactics, including sex work and child labor, to feed their families.

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67475960Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:13:26 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week takes a look at an internal email seen by Devex, which outlines the https://www.devex.com/organizations/23842’s priorities for the United Nations General Assembly. In addition to not mentioning the world “development,” the Trump...This week takes a look at an internal email seen by Devex, which outlines the U.S. Department of State’s priorities for the United Nations General Assembly. In addition to not mentioning the world “development,” the Trump administration is calling for a “fundamental rethink” of the international humanitarian system, and a decreased reliance on the country that was once the world’s largest donor.

We also discuss the dire humanitarian situation of refugees in Malawi, who are facing slashed food rations and shrinking health and protection services due to U.S. aid cuts. This crisis, particularly severe in the overcrowded Dzaleka refugee camp, is pushing a vulnerable population to the brink. With food assistance drastically reduced, many are resorting to desperate survival tactics, including sex work and child labor, to feed their families.

To dig into these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1637aid,development,malawi,refugees,trump,ungafalse109fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/state-department-faces-20b-spending-deadline-as-fiscal-year-end-looms--67376658U.S. Agency for International Development officially ceasing operations as the main U.S. foreign aid agency on July 1, the State Department now faces the daunting task of spending an estimated $20 billion before the fiscal year ends on Sept. 30 — without the 10,000 staff members who previously managed such distributions. The administration is legally required to spend money appropriated by Congress, or find legal justification for not spending it, as seen in earlier rescission efforts that returned $9 billion to the U.S. Treasury.

Meanwhile, USAID Deputy Administrator for Management and Resources Ken Jackson's recent tour of nine countries — including Belgium, Kenya, and the Philippines — to oversee mission closures, has drawn criticism from displaced staff who view the visits as poorly timed during their difficult transitions.

With many NGOs forced to restructure or face closure, some organizations are exploring mergers and partnerships to survive, with a new initiative led by Accountability Lab helping them pivot.

Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth discusses the latest developments in these stories with reporters Michael Igoe and Elissa Miolene.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67376658Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:51:34 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096 officially ceasing operations as the main U.S. foreign aid agency on July 1, the State Department now faces the daunting task of spending an...U.S. Agency for International Development officially ceasing operations as the main U.S. foreign aid agency on July 1, the State Department now faces the daunting task of spending an estimated $20 billion before the fiscal year ends on Sept. 30 — without the 10,000 staff members who previously managed such distributions. The administration is legally required to spend money appropriated by Congress, or find legal justification for not spending it, as seen in earlier rescission efforts that returned $9 billion to the U.S. Treasury.

Meanwhile, USAID Deputy Administrator for Management and Resources Ken Jackson's recent tour of nine countries — including Belgium, Kenya, and the Philippines — to oversee mission closures, has drawn criticism from displaced staff who view the visits as poorly timed during their difficult transitions.

With many NGOs forced to restructure or face closure, some organizations are exploring mergers and partnerships to survive, with a new initiative led by Accountability Lab helping them pivot.

Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth discusses the latest developments in these stories with reporters Michael Igoe and Elissa Miolene.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2532falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-the-trump-administration-s-plan-for-dfc--67212848This week, we're taking a deep dive into the Trump administration's vision for the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation. The White House’s proposal seeks to expand the number of countries DFC can work in, paving the way for it to invest in high-income countries — a shift from its initial remit to invest in lower-income countries. However, the U.S. Congress still needs to reauthorize the organization before the Oct. 6 deadline if any of these plans are to come to fruition.

On the other hand, the Millennium Challenge Corporation is set to face a different future. While the organization survived the Trump administration’s foreign assistance review, more than half of its programs are slated for cancellation.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67212848Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:40:03 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we're taking a deep dive into the Trump administration's https://www.devex.com/news/trump-has-big-plans-for-dfc-as-reauthorization-deadline-looms-110592 for the...This week, we're taking a deep dive into the Trump administration's vision for the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation. The White House’s proposal seeks to expand the number of countries DFC can work in, paving the way for it to invest in high-income countries — a shift from its initial remit to invest in lower-income countries. However, the U.S. Congress still needs to reauthorize the organization before the Oct. 6 deadline if any of these plans are to come to fruition.

On the other hand, the Millennium Challenge Corporation is set to face a different future. While the organization survived the Trump administration’s foreign assistance review, more than half of its programs are slated for cancellation.

To discuss these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2482aid,development,dfc,mcc,trump,usafalse107fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-next-steps-after-ffd4-and-how-un-programs-are-affected-by-aid-cuts--67108987This week, our conversation features Shari Spiegel, chief of the Financing for Sustainable Development Office at the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. She joins host Adva Saldinger and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch to reflect on the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, as well as dig into the legacy she hopes the summit will have. 

With the changing geopolitical landscape, we also discuss the role played by multilateral development banks and the private sector in achieving global development goals. 

This week we reported that the U.S. is clawing back more than $1 billion in funding to the United Nations. We take a look at how it will affect the organization’s initiatives, including peacekeeping operations and human rights promotion.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67108987Fri, 25 Jul 2025 08:36:13 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, our conversation features Shari Spiegel, chief of the Financing for Sustainable Development Office at the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-department-of-economic-and-social-affairs-undesa-27923. She joins host Adva...This week, our conversation features Shari Spiegel, chief of the Financing for Sustainable Development Office at the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. She joins host Adva Saldinger and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch to reflect on the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, as well as dig into the legacy she hopes the summit will have. 

With the changing geopolitical landscape, we also discuss the role played by multilateral development banks and the private sector in achieving global development goals. 

This week we reported that the U.S. is clawing back more than $1 billion in funding to the United Nations. We take a look at how it will affect the organization’s initiatives, including peacekeeping operations and human rights promotion.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2237aid,development,ffd4,unfalse106fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/us-aid-slashed-inside-the-8-billion-cut-to-foreign-assistance--67024943After an all-night marathon of amendments, the U.S. Senate voted to advance President Donald Trump’s $9 billion rescissions package this week. While the country’s flagship HIV/AIDS initiative PEPFAR was saved during the process, the package will still claw back nearly $8 billion in previously approved funding for foreign aid. 

To dig into this story, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Michael Igoe and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67024943Fri, 18 Jul 2025 09:08:58 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAfter an all-night marathon of amendments, the U.S. Senate voted to https://www.devex.com/news/how-the-senate-saved-pepfar-but-still-greenlit-billions-in-aid-cuts-110531 this week. While the country’s flagship HIV/AIDS initiative...After an all-night marathon of amendments, the U.S. Senate voted to advance President Donald Trump’s $9 billion rescissions package this week. While the country’s flagship HIV/AIDS initiative PEPFAR was saved during the process, the package will still claw back nearly $8 billion in previously approved funding for foreign aid. 

To dig into this story, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Michael Igoe and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1393aid,cuts,development,health,pepfar,trumpfalse105fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-reimagining-a-more-just-and-equitable-global-system--66971021U.S. Agency for International Development have upended the existing global development landscape and multilateral framework, they also represent an opportunity to reimagine a more just and equitable international system, said Open Society Foundations President Binaifer Nowrojee.

In a podcast recording with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar at Casa Devex during the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain, Nowrojee emphasized the shifting power dynamics that are emerging and the need to focus on building strong domestic institutions and national capacity. “What we have is national architecture that’s completely underused. National development banks could play a role and build a different set of economic opportunities inside countries,” Nowrojee said.

The conversation also emphasized the urgent need to mobilize domestic resources to close the development finance gap — including through better international tax cooperation to help counter the $200 billion lost annually through corporate tax avoidance — and a fairer approach to debt. Today, 3.3 billion people live in countries that spend more on debt repayments than on health or education. “The global north actually gives pennies in aid compared to the dollars flowing out of the global south,” Nowrojee said.

This special episode of This week in global development podcast was sponsored by the Open Society Foundations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66971021Mon, 14 Jul 2025 08:12:05 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWhile the abrupt cuts to official development assistance and closure of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096 have upended the existing global development landscape and multilateral...U.S. Agency for International Development have upended the existing global development landscape and multilateral framework, they also represent an opportunity to reimagine a more just and equitable international system, said Open Society Foundations President Binaifer Nowrojee.

In a podcast recording with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar at Casa Devex during the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain, Nowrojee emphasized the shifting power dynamics that are emerging and the need to focus on building strong domestic institutions and national capacity. “What we have is national architecture that’s completely underused. National development banks could play a role and build a different set of economic opportunities inside countries,” Nowrojee said.

The conversation also emphasized the urgent need to mobilize domestic resources to close the development finance gap — including through better international tax cooperation to help counter the $200 billion lost annually through corporate tax avoidance — and a fairer approach to debt. Today, 3.3 billion people live in countries that spend more on debt repayments than on health or education. “The global north actually gives pennies in aid compared to the dollars flowing out of the global south,” Nowrojee said.

This special episode of This week in global development podcast was sponsored by the Open Society Foundations.]]>1271falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/foreign-aid-at-a-crossroads-what-s-next-for-global-development--66941454With the U.S. Agency for International Development officially dismantled and its remnants folded into the State Department, the landscape of global aid is at a turning point. We delve into expert perspectives on what the future of foreign assistance might entail, exploring proposed transformations from widening the donor base beyond traditional Western nations to building new institutions and streamlining existing ones, such as the United Nations. This reimagining of aid aims to create a more effective and equitable system for a world grappling with evolving challenges and shifting geopolitical dynamics.

With France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States all cutting their aid budgets at the same time for the first time in decades, many low- and middle-income countries are facing steep declines in support. While African leaders have called the cuts “brutal,” they have also maintained that the slashing of foreign aid may act as the wake-up call needed to break their dependency on traditional donors. 

We also analyze President Trump's "big, beautiful bill" and its potential implications for the global development sector.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and global development expert Nasra Ismail for the latest episode of This Week in Global Development. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66941454Fri, 11 Jul 2025 07:38:18 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096 officially dismantled and its remnants folded into the State Department, the https://www.devex.com/news/how-do-we-fix-aid-110454. We delve into...With the U.S. Agency for International Development officially dismantled and its remnants folded into the State Department, the landscape of global aid is at a turning point. We delve into expert perspectives on what the future of foreign assistance might entail, exploring proposed transformations from widening the donor base beyond traditional Western nations to building new institutions and streamlining existing ones, such as the United Nations. This reimagining of aid aims to create a more effective and equitable system for a world grappling with evolving challenges and shifting geopolitical dynamics.

With France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States all cutting their aid budgets at the same time for the first time in decades, many low- and middle-income countries are facing steep declines in support. While African leaders have called the cuts “brutal,” they have also maintained that the slashing of foreign aid may act as the wake-up call needed to break their dependency on traditional donors. 

We also analyze President Trump's "big, beautiful bill" and its potential implications for the global development sector.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and global development expert Nasra Ismail for the latest episode of This Week in Global Development. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1981aid,development,finance,trumpfalse104fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-how-blockchain-is-powering-crisis-to-cash-infrastructure--66923560As development budgets tighten, donors, NGOs, and implementing partners alike are all grappling with an increasingly urgent question: How do you move money efficiently and securely to people who need it most — especially in complex or hard-to-reach environments, where traditional banking fails?

One technology that’s gaining traction in this space is blockchain. “The speed, the efficiency, the transparency, and the ability to pay people very directly … [blockchain] is this very powerful technology in a crisis area,” said Candace Kelly, chief legal and policy officer at Stellar Development Foundation, whose mission is to create equitable access to the global financial system.

Kelly joined Devex Executive Editor Kate Warren for a podcast recording at Casa Devex, Devex’s events hub during the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain.

This podcast episode is sponsored by Stellar Development Foundation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66923560Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:14:45 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs development budgets tighten, donors, NGOs, and implementing partners alike are all grappling with an increasingly urgent question: How do you move money efficiently and securely to people who need it most — especially in complex or hard-to-reach...As development budgets tighten, donors, NGOs, and implementing partners alike are all grappling with an increasingly urgent question: How do you move money efficiently and securely to people who need it most — especially in complex or hard-to-reach environments, where traditional banking fails?

One technology that’s gaining traction in this space is blockchain. “The speed, the efficiency, the transparency, and the ability to pay people very directly … [blockchain] is this very powerful technology in a crisis area,” said Candace Kelly, chief legal and policy officer at Stellar Development Foundation, whose mission is to create equitable access to the global financial system.

Kelly joined Devex Executive Editor Kate Warren for a podcast recording at Casa Devex, Devex’s events hub during the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain.

This podcast episode is sponsored by Stellar Development Foundation.]]>1438falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/did-sevilla-save-multilateralism-or-just-survive-the-heat--66852942As the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development wraps up, Devex reporters Jesse Chase-Lubitz and Elissa Miolene join Associate Editor Thomas Cserép for a podcast episode reflecting on what transpired this week in Sevilla — beyond the sweltering 115 degrees Celsius heat.

The big takeaway from FfD4 is the Compromiso de Sevilla, a document that participants view as both a commitment and a compromise. "Multilateralism lives" became the conference's unofficial motto as countries adapted to the United States’ absence. 

“It's more of a pickup moment after six months of global upheaval, and now moving forward and seeing what's next, and perhaps there'll be other actors that fill that gap, and maybe that might come from the global south itself,” Miolene said.

Key outcomes include establishing a borrowers' group to amplify the voices of low- and middle-income countries, and creating a global debt registry aimed at promoting transparency. While climate language was significantly watered down due to the United States’ proposed amendments prior to their withdrawal, tax reform gained momentum, with renewed calls for a U.N. convention on international tax cooperation.

However, civil society groups expressed frustration over access restrictions at the conference, while journalists faced rigorous checkpoints entering areas where negotiations were actually taking place. 

At the conference’s side events, private sector engagement was notably high, suggesting that despite falling aid budgets, there's a genuine appetite for partnerships — with the overall mood remaining cautiously optimistic about what comes next.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66852942Thu, 03 Jul 2025 18:02:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs the https://www.devex.com/focus/ffd wraps up, Devex reporters Jesse Chase-Lubitz and Elissa Miolene join Associate Editor Thomas Cserép for a podcast episode reflecting on what transpired this week in Sevilla — beyond the sweltering 115 degrees...As the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development wraps up, Devex reporters Jesse Chase-Lubitz and Elissa Miolene join Associate Editor Thomas Cserép for a podcast episode reflecting on what transpired this week in Sevilla — beyond the sweltering 115 degrees Celsius heat.

The big takeaway from FfD4 is the Compromiso de Sevilla, a document that participants view as both a commitment and a compromise. "Multilateralism lives" became the conference's unofficial motto as countries adapted to the United States’ absence. 

“It's more of a pickup moment after six months of global upheaval, and now moving forward and seeing what's next, and perhaps there'll be other actors that fill that gap, and maybe that might come from the global south itself,” Miolene said.

Key outcomes include establishing a borrowers' group to amplify the voices of low- and middle-income countries, and creating a global debt registry aimed at promoting transparency. While climate language was significantly watered down due to the United States’ proposed amendments prior to their withdrawal, tax reform gained momentum, with renewed calls for a U.N. convention on international tax cooperation.

However, civil society groups expressed frustration over access restrictions at the conference, while journalists faced rigorous checkpoints entering areas where negotiations were actually taking place. 

At the conference’s side events, private sector engagement was notably high, suggesting that despite falling aid budgets, there's a genuine appetite for partnerships — with the overall mood remaining cautiously optimistic about what comes next.]]>1136climate,cop,cop30,development,ff4d,finance,sevilla,sevillefalse103fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-can-health-survive-the-development-finance-revolution--66830175Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain, are urgently exploring innovative ways to fund global development. But as the spotlight shifts toward private capital, there’s a growing concern that essential interventions without immediate financial returns — such as health investments — could be overlooked.

“We’re very clear that the cheapest money — concessional money, grant financing, and very concessional loans — should be allocated to those investments that give you this massive societal return, but not necessarily a financial return,” said Kalpana Kochhar, director of development policy and finance at the Gates Foundation, in an onstage conversation with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, demonstrates how strategic health investments can pay off over time. “Gavi has graduated a number of countries who originally needed that subsidy to bring in vaccines and help purchase them at a lower price, but now [those countries] are doing it on their own,” Kumar said. However at the recent Gavi replenishment round, pledges fell short by about $2.9 billion of its total budget request.

The discussion also highlighted new opportunities to attract private investment in health manufacturing — from vaccine production to locally made bed nets — and reflected on the progress made since the last Financing for Development conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, about a decade ago.

This special episode of This week in global development was sponsored by the Gates Foundation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66830175Wed, 02 Jul 2025 08:44:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith aid budgets under pressure globally, delegates at the https://www.devex.com/focus/ffd in Sevilla, Spain, are urgently exploring innovative ways to fund global development. But as the spotlight shifts toward private capital, there’s a growing...Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain, are urgently exploring innovative ways to fund global development. But as the spotlight shifts toward private capital, there’s a growing concern that essential interventions without immediate financial returns — such as health investments — could be overlooked.

“We’re very clear that the cheapest money — concessional money, grant financing, and very concessional loans — should be allocated to those investments that give you this massive societal return, but not necessarily a financial return,” said Kalpana Kochhar, director of development policy and finance at the Gates Foundation, in an onstage conversation with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, demonstrates how strategic health investments can pay off over time. “Gavi has graduated a number of countries who originally needed that subsidy to bring in vaccines and help purchase them at a lower price, but now [those countries] are doing it on their own,” Kumar said. However at the recent Gavi replenishment round, pledges fell short by about $2.9 billion of its total budget request.

The discussion also highlighted new opportunities to attract private investment in health manufacturing — from vaccine production to locally made bed nets — and reflected on the progress made since the last Financing for Development conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, about a decade ago.

This special episode of This week in global development was sponsored by the Gates Foundation.]]>1447falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ffd4-kicks-off-as-aid-budgets-shrink-and-u-s-steps-back--66810078Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, or FfD4 — the first such gathering in a decade — as shrinking aid budgets and a U.S. retreat from multilateral commitments reshape the sector.

At the 2015 conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, official development assistance was at record levels amid ambitious “billions to trillions” rhetoric — the idea that limited public funds could catalyze massive private investment to tackle global challenges such as climate change.

Today’s backdrop includes the pandemic fallout, inflation, the war in Ukraine, and sweeping aid cuts. The U.S. participated in outcome document negotiations until the final stages, reportedly proposing 400 amendments to soften the language on climate and gender before withdrawing entirely, citing too many “red lines.”

In this special live podcast episode recorded at Casa Devex, Devex’s events hub for the next few days, reporters Elissa Miolene and Jesse Chase-Lubitz sit down with Executive Editor Kate Warren to discuss what’s at stake and why this “once-in-a-decade” forum has taken on heightened significance.


]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66810078Mon, 30 Jun 2025 18:04:44 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentDevelopment leaders have converged on Sevilla, Spain, for the https://www.devex.com/focus/ffd, or FfD4 — the first such gathering in a decade — as shrinking aid budgets and a U.S. retreat from multilateral commitments reshape the sector....Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, or FfD4 — the first such gathering in a decade — as shrinking aid budgets and a U.S. retreat from multilateral commitments reshape the sector.

At the 2015 conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, official development assistance was at record levels amid ambitious “billions to trillions” rhetoric — the idea that limited public funds could catalyze massive private investment to tackle global challenges such as climate change.

Today’s backdrop includes the pandemic fallout, inflation, the war in Ukraine, and sweeping aid cuts. The U.S. participated in outcome document negotiations until the final stages, reportedly proposing 400 amendments to soften the language on climate and gender before withdrawing entirely, citing too many “red lines.”

In this special live podcast episode recorded at Casa Devex, Devex’s events hub for the next few days, reporters Elissa Miolene and Jesse Chase-Lubitz sit down with Executive Editor Kate Warren to discuss what’s at stake and why this “once-in-a-decade” forum has taken on heightened significance.


]]>1369falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-cuts-to-gavi-reflect-us-disengagement-from-development--66768744This week, we have been closely following the Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance’s high-level replenishment event in Brussels. Gavi, the leading international organization that provides vaccines to lower-income countries, finalized its five-year investment round event with more than $9 billion in pledges — falling short of its total budget request of $11.9 billion. 

The United States decided to cut its support for the organization, with U.S. health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stating that the country will not fund Gavi until it works to “re-earn the public trust.”

On the topic of the U.S., our discussion also covers the Trump administration's decision to withdraw support for various U.N. Sustainable Development Goal commitments, alongside its absence from the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development.

To discuss these stories and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Sara Jerving and Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66768744Fri, 27 Jun 2025 07:52:41 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we have been closely following the https://www.devex.com/organizations/gavi-the-vaccine-alliance-44118’s high-level replenishment event in Brussels. Gavi, the leading international organization that provides vaccines to lower-income...This week, we have been closely following the Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance’s high-level replenishment event in Brussels. Gavi, the leading international organization that provides vaccines to lower-income countries, finalized its five-year investment round event with more than $9 billion in pledges — falling short of its total budget request of $11.9 billion. 

The United States decided to cut its support for the organization, with U.S. health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stating that the country will not fund Gavi until it works to “re-earn the public trust.”

On the topic of the U.S., our discussion also covers the Trump administration's decision to withdraw support for various U.N. Sustainable Development Goal commitments, alongside its absence from the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development.

To discuss these stories and others, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Sara Jerving and Colum Lynch for the latest episode of our podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1578aid,development,gavi,health,trumpfalse102fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bonn-climate-talk-updates-and-how-aid-cuts-are-affecting-us-farmers--66628191This week, we are at the Bonn Climate Change Conference. From climate financing to the absence of the United States, we take a look at the major talking points at the summit and contemplate whether the talks will translate into actionable policies. 

We also look at how the Trump administration’s plans to cut foreign aid funding could create unexpected domestic repercussions for American agricultural producers.

This policy shift carries severe consequences, potentially undermining the economic stability of U.S. farmers involved in aid supply chains and degrading crucial international mechanisms for disease and pest surveillance that transcend national borders.

In order to dig into these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Global Development Reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66628191Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:44:56 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we are at the https://www.devex.com/news/special-edition-before-cop30-takes-the-spotlight-bonn-sets-the-stage-110283. From climate financing to the absence of the United States, we take a look at the major talking points at the summit and...This week, we are at the Bonn Climate Change Conference. From climate financing to the absence of the United States, we take a look at the major talking points at the summit and contemplate whether the talks will translate into actionable policies. 

We also look at how the Trump administration’s plans to cut foreign aid funding could create unexpected domestic repercussions for American agricultural producers.

This policy shift carries severe consequences, potentially undermining the economic stability of U.S. farmers involved in aid supply chains and degrading crucial international mechanisms for disease and pest surveillance that transcend national borders.

In order to dig into these stories, and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Global Development Reporters Ayenat Mersie and Jesse Chase-Lubitz for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1384agriculture,aid,bonn,climate,cop,farming,finance,usaidfalse101fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-100-what-happened-in-global-development-over-the-past-2-years--66544530In celebration of our 100th podcast episode, we’re revisiting the most impactful global development stories from the past two years, covering the period since our very first recording.

From the evolving aid landscape to the critical discussions around localization, we explore some of the key themes in global development that we have been covering. We examine the growing burden of debt in low-income countries and the urgent need for climate finance.

During this episode, we also look back at the key takeaways from the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, where Devex was a media partner. 

For this week’s edition, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to mark this special occasion.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66544530Fri, 13 Jun 2025 07:53:14 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn celebration of our 100th podcast episode, we’re revisiting the most impactful global development stories from the past two years, covering the period since our very first recording. From the evolving aid landscape to the critical discussions...In celebration of our 100th podcast episode, we’re revisiting the most impactful global development stories from the past two years, covering the period since our very first recording.

From the evolving aid landscape to the critical discussions around localization, we explore some of the key themes in global development that we have been covering. We examine the growing burden of debt in low-income countries and the urgent need for climate finance.

During this episode, we also look back at the key takeaways from the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, where Devex was a media partner. 

For this week’s edition, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to mark this special occasion.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2173development,finance,localization,trump,ukraine,usaidfalse100fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trump-budget-targets-us-aid-plus-what-we-heard-at-afdb-meetings--66417192elimination of funding for major global health initiatives such as Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

The administration has also submitted a $9.4 billion rescission proposal to the U.S. Congress, seeking to formally cancel previously approved funds, much of it earmarked for foreign assistance. If approved, the move would codify into law cuts already made by the Department of Government Efficiency. The upcoming congressional response will be a critical test of foreign aid advocacy.

We also discuss what happened at last week’s African Development Bank meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where delegates discussed the need to diversify funding sources in the wake of U.S. aid cuts and focus on more reliable partnerships. The meetings also marked a leadership transition, with Mauritania’s Sidi Ould Tah appointed as the AfDB’s new president, vowing to mobilize private sector investment and deepen partnerships with the Gulf states.

To discuss these stories, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba is joined by reporters Michael Igoe and Ayenat Mersie for this episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66417192Fri, 06 Jun 2025 08:30:50 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentOn this week’s podcast episode, we unpack U.S. President Donald Trump’s 2026 budget request, which proposes sweeping cuts to foreign aid and includes the...elimination of funding for major global health initiatives such as Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

The administration has also submitted a $9.4 billion rescission proposal to the U.S. Congress, seeking to formally cancel previously approved funds, much of it earmarked for foreign assistance. If approved, the move would codify into law cuts already made by the Department of Government Efficiency. The upcoming congressional response will be a critical test of foreign aid advocacy.

We also discuss what happened at last week’s African Development Bank meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where delegates discussed the need to diversify funding sources in the wake of U.S. aid cuts and focus on more reliable partnerships. The meetings also marked a leadership transition, with Mauritania’s Sidi Ould Tah appointed as the AfDB’s new president, vowing to mobilize private sector investment and deepen partnerships with the Gulf states.

To discuss these stories, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba is joined by reporters Michael Igoe and Ayenat Mersie for this episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>2295false99fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/key-takeaways-from-wha78-and-gaza-humanitarian-foundation-s-fallout--66326309This week we reflect on the 78th World Health Assembly, which Devex covered on the ground in Geneva. From the historic agreement of the Pandemic Treaty to the World Health Organization's strategies for addressing its persistent funding gap, we analyze the key takeaways from the conference. 

We also discuss the U.S.- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s aid delivery mechanism, which is facing internal collapse and accusations of violating humanitarian norms. The organization’s now-former executive director, Jake Wood, resigned on Sunday, just one day before the private humanitarian organization’s food aid distribution plan for Gaza launched, saying that it was “not possible” to implement the initiative “while also strictly adhering to humanitarian principles.”

This week’s episode also looks ahead to the topics we will be following at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development starting next month in Seville, Spain. 
Digging into these stories and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba and Global Development Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz to bring you This Week in Global Development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66326309Thu, 29 May 2025 12:49:32 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we reflect on the https://www.devex.com/news/wha78-special-edition-wha-is-over-but-there-s-more-work-to-be-done-110149, which Devex covered on the ground in Geneva. From the historic agreement of the Pandemic Treaty to the...This week we reflect on the 78th World Health Assembly, which Devex covered on the ground in Geneva. From the historic agreement of the Pandemic Treaty to the World Health Organization's strategies for addressing its persistent funding gap, we analyze the key takeaways from the conference. 

We also discuss the U.S.- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s aid delivery mechanism, which is facing internal collapse and accusations of violating humanitarian norms. The organization’s now-former executive director, Jake Wood, resigned on Sunday, just one day before the private humanitarian organization’s food aid distribution plan for Gaza launched, saying that it was “not possible” to implement the initiative “while also strictly adhering to humanitarian principles.”

This week’s episode also looks ahead to the topics we will be following at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development starting next month in Seville, Spain. 
Digging into these stories and others, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba and Global Development Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz to bring you This Week in Global Development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1919gaza,health,sevilla,usa,wha,whofalse98fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-leadership-small-business-economic-growth-in-a-changing-landscape--66292542Explosive growth in the middle class, rapid urbanization, digitization and automation, the energy transition, and evolving geopolitics — these all present unique challenges for today’s businesses, said Jonathan Fantini-Porter, senior vice president of social impact in the Americas at Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

It’s against this backdrop that public and private sector leaders are grappling with questions of longevity, opportunity, and continued growth. With this in mind, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth and Devex convened over 400 practitioners from the fields of tech, policy, and finance last month in Washington, D.C., for the Global Inclusive Growth Summit. The sessions and conversation centered on what it takes to create and lead economic growth, how to future-proof an organization’s mission, and the role of innovative leadership in shaping a better future.  

“The key is the shared urgency around how we future-proof inclusive growth … and the importance of cross-sector collaboration at scale,” said Fantini-Porter. “Siloed solutions just aren't enough in this context that we're living through at this point.”

Taking that conversation beyond the summit, Fantini-Porter talks to Raj Kumar, Devex’s president and editor-in-chief, in a special podcast episode about how businesses — especially small businesses in rural areas — can create resilience in their communities and support economic opportunities for all. 

This special episode of This week in Global Development was sponsored by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

This episode by sponsored by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66292542Tue, 27 May 2025 12:30:43 +0000Devex | Global Developmenthttps://hbr.org/sponsored/2025/04/how-financial-inclusion-and-health-can-move-more-people-into-the-middle-class, rapid urbanization, digitization and automation, the energy transition, and evolving geopolitics — these all present unique challenges for...Explosive growth in the middle class, rapid urbanization, digitization and automation, the energy transition, and evolving geopolitics — these all present unique challenges for today’s businesses, said Jonathan Fantini-Porter, senior vice president of social impact in the Americas at Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

It’s against this backdrop that public and private sector leaders are grappling with questions of longevity, opportunity, and continued growth. With this in mind, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth and Devex convened over 400 practitioners from the fields of tech, policy, and finance last month in Washington, D.C., for the Global Inclusive Growth Summit. The sessions and conversation centered on what it takes to create and lead economic growth, how to future-proof an organization’s mission, and the role of innovative leadership in shaping a better future.  

“The key is the shared urgency around how we future-proof inclusive growth … and the importance of cross-sector collaboration at scale,” said Fantini-Porter. “Siloed solutions just aren't enough in this context that we're living through at this point.”

Taking that conversation beyond the summit, Fantini-Porter talks to Raj Kumar, Devex’s president and editor-in-chief, in a special podcast episode about how businesses — especially small businesses in rural areas — can create resilience in their communities and support economic opportunities for all. 

This special episode of This week in Global Development was sponsored by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

This episode by sponsored by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.]]>1634development,finance,gigs,growthfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/live-from-wha78-a-look-at-the-pandemic-agreement--66199232With the 78th World Health Assembly in full swing, we dig into the main talking point of the conference: the Pandemic Agreement. 

The landmark treaty was adopted during this year’s edition of the annual summit. The agreement is designed to create a world better prepared for pandemics, ensuring a more equitable distribution of lifesaving medical interventions — a key challenge highlighted by the COVID-19 response. We delve into what this means for pandemic preparedness and chart the essential next steps.

During the conversation, we also discuss the funding challenges faced by the World Health Organization and possible solutions that are being explored to ensure its sustainable future.


For this special episode of our podcast series recorded live on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Helen Clark, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Dr. Ngashi Ngongo, the principal adviser to the director-general on program management and the continental incident manager for mpox at the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66199232Thu, 22 May 2025 09:53:11 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith the https://www.devex.com/focus/wha in full swing, we dig into the main talking point of the conference: the Pandemic Agreement.  The landmark treaty was...With the 78th World Health Assembly in full swing, we dig into the main talking point of the conference: the Pandemic Agreement. 

The landmark treaty was adopted during this year’s edition of the annual summit. The agreement is designed to create a world better prepared for pandemics, ensuring a more equitable distribution of lifesaving medical interventions — a key challenge highlighted by the COVID-19 response. We delve into what this means for pandemic preparedness and chart the essential next steps.

During the conversation, we also discuss the funding challenges faced by the World Health Organization and possible solutions that are being explored to ensure its sustainable future.


For this special episode of our podcast series recorded live on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Helen Clark, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Dr. Ngashi Ngongo, the principal adviser to the director-general on program management and the continental incident manager for mpox at the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1795development,health,pandemic,wha,whofalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/previewing-the-world-health-assembly-and-trump-s-big-beautiful-bill--66102949Next week, the global health community will convene in Geneva for the World Health Organization's annual decision-making summit, the World Health Assembly. We preview the pivotal discussions expected to shape the coming year, including the implications of recent leadership changes and cost-saving initiatives at WHO, as well as the evolving role of philanthropic organizations in funding global health.

We also discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s self-described “big, beautiful bill,” which made its way through a key congressional tax-writing committee on Wednesday. The 389-page plan would increase taxes on private foundations, place a 5% tax on remittances for non-U.S. citizens, and allow the government to revoke the tax-exempt status of organizations it says support terrorists.

To analyze these stories, and others, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and senior global health reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo for the latest episode of our podcast series.

Join our global health reporting team in person or online in Geneva from May 19 to 22 as we host a series of events and roundtables on the sidelines of the 78th World Health Assembly. This journalist-led summit will bring sector leaders to discuss and explore solutions to some of the most pressing issues in global health. Check out the lineup of programs and register here.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66102949Thu, 15 May 2025 16:13:32 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentNext week, the global health community will convene in Geneva for the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-health-organization-who-30562's annual decision-making summit, the World Health Assembly. We preview the pivotal discussions expected to...Next week, the global health community will convene in Geneva for the World Health Organization's annual decision-making summit, the World Health Assembly. We preview the pivotal discussions expected to shape the coming year, including the implications of recent leadership changes and cost-saving initiatives at WHO, as well as the evolving role of philanthropic organizations in funding global health.

We also discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s self-described “big, beautiful bill,” which made its way through a key congressional tax-writing committee on Wednesday. The 389-page plan would increase taxes on private foundations, place a 5% tax on remittances for non-U.S. citizens, and allow the government to revoke the tax-exempt status of organizations it says support terrorists.

To analyze these stories, and others, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and senior global health reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo for the latest episode of our podcast series.

Join our global health reporting team in person or online in Geneva from May 19 to 22 as we host a series of events and roundtables on the sidelines of the 78th World Health Assembly. This journalist-led summit will bring sector leaders to discuss and explore solutions to some of the most pressing issues in global health. Check out the lineup of programs and register here.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1658development,health,trump,wha,whofalse97fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bill-gates-big-announcement-and-trump-s-budget-proposal--66085615This week, we learned that billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates will commit most of his fortune to the Gates Foundation, which will close in 2045. Before this date, the foundation will double its philanthropy, spending $200 billion over the next two decades. The announcement comes as the organization, which has given away $100 billion since 2000, marks its 25th anniversary.

Meanwhile, at the end of last week, U.S. President Donald Trump’s budget proposed an unprecedented slashing of U.S. foreign assistance, making huge cuts to global health, humanitarian aid, and core economic and development work. We discuss the details of Trump’s budget proposal for fiscal year 2026, and its potential impact on the global development sector. 

As the future of foreign aid remains in limbo, 400,000 boxes of food for malnourished children remain stuck in the United States.

To explore these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Sara Jerving and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66085615Wed, 14 May 2025 14:38:14 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we learned that billionaire philanthropist https://www.devex.com/news/bill-gates-commits-most-of-his-fortune-to-gates-foundation-closing-2045-110021, which will close in 2045. Before this date, the foundation will double its philanthropy,...This week, we learned that billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates will commit most of his fortune to the Gates Foundation, which will close in 2045. Before this date, the foundation will double its philanthropy, spending $200 billion over the next two decades. The announcement comes as the organization, which has given away $100 billion since 2000, marks its 25th anniversary.

Meanwhile, at the end of last week, U.S. President Donald Trump’s budget proposed an unprecedented slashing of U.S. foreign assistance, making huge cuts to global health, humanitarian aid, and core economic and development work. We discuss the details of Trump’s budget proposal for fiscal year 2026, and its potential impact on the global development sector. 

As the future of foreign aid remains in limbo, 400,000 boxes of food for malnourished children remain stuck in the United States.

To explore these stories and others, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Sara Jerving and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1683development,gates,philanthropy,trumpfalse96fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/exclusive-interview-undp-s-achim-steiner-on-the-chronic-erosion-of-development--66082342For this special episode of our weekly podcast series, we sit down with outgoing UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner. He reflects on his two terms, navigating the agency through transitions and current disruptions. Steiner candidly discusses the significant impact of Trump administration program cuts, detailing how they disrupted vital partnerships and supply chains in crisis-hit countries. Hear his take on these impactful cancellations within the larger context of UNDP's work.

Steiner also addresses the concerning trend of declining development finance for much of the developing world, despite overall ODA figures. He confronts the growing skepticism around multilateral institutions and the critical need for internal reflection. Looking ahead, Steiner highlights UNDP's adaptation through new partnerships and financing, urging a global shift towards innovative funding solutions, especially for the most vulnerable nations. Tune in for this crucial discussion on the changing face of development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66082342Wed, 14 May 2025 09:04:47 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFor this special episode of our weekly podcast series, we sit down with outgoing UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner. He reflects on his two terms, navigating the agency through transitions and current disruptions. Steiner candidly discusses the...For this special episode of our weekly podcast series, we sit down with outgoing UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner. He reflects on his two terms, navigating the agency through transitions and current disruptions. Steiner candidly discusses the significant impact of Trump administration program cuts, detailing how they disrupted vital partnerships and supply chains in crisis-hit countries. Hear his take on these impactful cancellations within the larger context of UNDP's work.

Steiner also addresses the concerning trend of declining development finance for much of the developing world, despite overall ODA figures. He confronts the growing skepticism around multilateral institutions and the critical need for internal reflection. Looking ahead, Steiner highlights UNDP's adaptation through new partnerships and financing, urging a global shift towards innovative funding solutions, especially for the most vulnerable nations. Tune in for this crucial discussion on the changing face of development.]]>2451aid,development,finance,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-the-first-100-days-of-trump-s-presidency-impacted-global-development--65827292This week marked the first 100 days of the second Trump presidency. From the cutting of foreign aid programs to the laying off of government staff, we reflect on the second Trump administration's impact on the global development sector. 

On the topic of the U.S. government, the Department of Government Efficiency is also planning to shut down the Millennium Challenge Corporation. However, efforts are underway to try and save the agency, which has enjoyed bipartisan support and is seen as a key tool to countering China's geopolitical influence.

We also look back at the key takeaways from the Global Inclusive Growth Summit hosted by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, where Devex was a media partner. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65827292Thu, 01 May 2025 16:02:04 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week marked the first 100 days of the second Trump presidency. From the cutting of foreign aid programs to the laying off of government staff, we reflect on the second Trump...This week marked the first 100 days of the second Trump presidency. From the cutting of foreign aid programs to the laying off of government staff, we reflect on the second Trump administration's impact on the global development sector. 

On the topic of the U.S. government, the Department of Government Efficiency is also planning to shut down the Millennium Challenge Corporation. However, efforts are underway to try and save the agency, which has enjoyed bipartisan support and is seen as a key tool to countering China's geopolitical influence.

We also look back at the key takeaways from the Global Inclusive Growth Summit hosted by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, where Devex was a media partner. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2276development,doge,finance,gigs,mcc,trumpfalse95fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-what-s-at-stake-in-the-race-for-critical-raw-materials--65777833
“All the world is talking about going from fossil fuels to decarbonization, and how we should do the green transition …  But all of this will need the relevant equipment, and this relevant equipment demands critical raw materials,” said Olena Pavlenko, President and co-founder of DiXi Group, a Ukrainian think tank focused on the energy sector.

One key challenge for the development sector is ensuring the equitable distribution of critical raw materials, especially to resource-rich nations that often miss out on their benefits. 
“A lot of countries in the African continent contain many of these materials, but aren't necessarily the beneficiaries of a lot of the value that's extracted from them,” said Brian Kagoro, the managing director of programs at Open Society Foundations.

Pavlenko and Kagoro were joined by Devex Executive Vice President Kate Warren on the sidelines of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, DC, for a special podcast sponsored by the Open Society Foundations.

Sponsored by Open Society Foundations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65777833Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:41:10 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentConversations about critical raw materials — the natural resources that power  everything from clean energy to smart phones, electric vehicles, and even AI systems  — are not ones you hear about in every development circle, but this is starting to...
“All the world is talking about going from fossil fuels to decarbonization, and how we should do the green transition …  But all of this will need the relevant equipment, and this relevant equipment demands critical raw materials,” said Olena Pavlenko, President and co-founder of DiXi Group, a Ukrainian think tank focused on the energy sector.

One key challenge for the development sector is ensuring the equitable distribution of critical raw materials, especially to resource-rich nations that often miss out on their benefits. 
“A lot of countries in the African continent contain many of these materials, but aren't necessarily the beneficiaries of a lot of the value that's extracted from them,” said Brian Kagoro, the managing director of programs at Open Society Foundations.

Pavlenko and Kagoro were joined by Devex Executive Vice President Kate Warren on the sidelines of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, DC, for a special podcast sponsored by the Open Society Foundations.

Sponsored by Open Society Foundations.]]>2164falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/live-from-the-world-bank-meetings-an-inside-look-at-the-targeting-of-mcc--65706104With the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings in full swing, we are recording live from the conference. From the United States’ approach to the institutions to how to create more jobs in the global workforce, we take a look at the key discussion points at the summit. 

On the topic of the U.S., we chew over the possibility that the uncertainty surrounding potential tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration may be more damaging than the tariffs themselves, drying up liquidity and forcing painful choices on indebted nations. 

During the conversation, we also get into our scoop on the Department of Government Efficiency’s targeting of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. In the coming weeks, the agency is expected to face a reduction in both staff and programming. 

To explore these stories, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with reporters Adva Saldinger and Jesse Chase-Lubitz, who are covering the Spring Meetings this week, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65706104Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:33:37 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 and https://www.devex.com/organizations/international-monetary-fund-imf-44300 Spring Meetings in full swing, we are recording live from the conference. From the United States’...With the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings in full swing, we are recording live from the conference. From the United States’ approach to the institutions to how to create more jobs in the global workforce, we take a look at the key discussion points at the summit. 

On the topic of the U.S., we chew over the possibility that the uncertainty surrounding potential tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration may be more damaging than the tariffs themselves, drying up liquidity and forcing painful choices on indebted nations. 

During the conversation, we also get into our scoop on the Department of Government Efficiency’s targeting of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. In the coming weeks, the agency is expected to face a reduction in both staff and programming. 

To explore these stories, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with reporters Adva Saldinger and Jesse Chase-Lubitz, who are covering the Spring Meetings this week, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2051development,doge,finance,imf,mcc,philanthropy,trumpfalse94fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-can-we-expect-from-the-world-bank-spring-meetings--65621632This week we published a story in which we spoke with 14 former and current World Central Kitchen staff members and contractors to find out what lay behind the deaths of seven of the nonprofit’s staff members in Gaza. The interviewees described a workplace plagued by risk, inadequate training, and a “build-the-plane-while-flying-it” mentality.

With the Spring Meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund coming up next week, we discuss what the gathering will mean for the global development sector. It’s the first World Bank meeting since U.S. President Donald Trump’s election in January, and all eyes will be on how the United States will approach the talks and its relationship with the institution. 

We also take a look at the key takeaways from our event with U.S. Rep. French Hill, a Republican from Arkansas and chair of the House Financial Services Committee, who argued that the World Bank is disproportionately focused on climate change and it needs to be pushed “back on course.” 

To unpack what happened to the World Central Kitchen staffers in Gaza and to look ahead to the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Adva Saldinger and Elissa Miolene, as well as Clemence Landers, vice president and senior policy fellow at the Center For Global Development. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65621632Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:29:37 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we published a story in which we spoke with 14 former and current World Central Kitchen staff members and contractors to find out https://www.devex.com/news/what-lay-behind-the-deaths-of-7-world-central-kitchen-staff-in-gaza-108866. The...This week we published a story in which we spoke with 14 former and current World Central Kitchen staff members and contractors to find out what lay behind the deaths of seven of the nonprofit’s staff members in Gaza. The interviewees described a workplace plagued by risk, inadequate training, and a “build-the-plane-while-flying-it” mentality.

With the Spring Meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund coming up next week, we discuss what the gathering will mean for the global development sector. It’s the first World Bank meeting since U.S. President Donald Trump’s election in January, and all eyes will be on how the United States will approach the talks and its relationship with the institution. 

We also take a look at the key takeaways from our event with U.S. Rep. French Hill, a Republican from Arkansas and chair of the House Financial Services Committee, who argued that the World Bank is disproportionately focused on climate change and it needs to be pushed “back on course.” 

To unpack what happened to the World Central Kitchen staffers in Gaza and to look ahead to the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with reporters Adva Saldinger and Elissa Miolene, as well as Clemence Landers, vice president and senior policy fellow at the Center For Global Development. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2440development,finance,gaza,imf,wckfalse93fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-5-billion-people-lack-access-to-surgery-here-s-what-needs-to-change--65604681
Despite carrying 25% of the global surgical disease burden, Africa is served by just 2% of the world’s surgical workforce. The reasons for this disparity are complex — from underresourced medical education systems to the migration of trained professionals seeking better pay and working conditions abroad.

In this podcast episode, Operation Smile’s chief medical officer, Dr. Billy Magee, and University of Rwanda’s Professor Faustin Ntirenganya join Devex’s Kate Warren to discuss some of the strategies that have emerged as the most promising for enhancing surgical care access, and learnings from Operation Smile in Rwanda. They also discuss progress made at the inaugural Pan-African Surgical Conference, which took place in late February in Kigali, and was organized by Operation Smile in partnership with the Rwanda Ministry of Health, Rwanda Surgical Society, and the University of Rwanda. 

This episode is sponsored by Operation Smile.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65604681Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:50:43 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAround 5 billion people — about two-thirds of the world’s population — globally lack access to safe, affordable surgical care.  Despite carrying 25% of the global surgical disease burden, Africa is served by just 2% of the world’s surgical workforce....
Despite carrying 25% of the global surgical disease burden, Africa is served by just 2% of the world’s surgical workforce. The reasons for this disparity are complex — from underresourced medical education systems to the migration of trained professionals seeking better pay and working conditions abroad.

In this podcast episode, Operation Smile’s chief medical officer, Dr. Billy Magee, and University of Rwanda’s Professor Faustin Ntirenganya join Devex’s Kate Warren to discuss some of the strategies that have emerged as the most promising for enhancing surgical care access, and learnings from Operation Smile in Rwanda. They also discuss progress made at the inaugural Pan-African Surgical Conference, which took place in late February in Kigali, and was organized by Operation Smile in partnership with the Rwanda Ministry of Health, Rwanda Surgical Society, and the University of Rwanda. 

This episode is sponsored by Operation Smile.]]>2040falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/confusion-deepens-over-usaid-cuts-as-data-errors-and-reversals-pile-up--65528985
We also look at how European governments are quietly debating whether to fill the gaps left by U.S. cuts, and what U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent podcast appearance reveals about the administration’s shifting aid priorities. 

To unpack these developments, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger is joined by Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene and Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters 

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Global Development Headlines
00:58 USAID Program Terminations and Confusion
09:06 Congressional Role and Future of Foreign Aid
12:24 PEPFAR and Bipartisan Support 
16:57 European Foreign Aid Dynamics
25:20 Marco Rubio's Perspective on Foreign Aid]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65528985Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:34:44 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentConfusion surrounding U.S. foreign assistance deepened this week as USAID reversed several program terminations—including life-saving food aid—just days after announcing them. The World Food Programme called the initial cuts a “death sentence for...
We also look at how European governments are quietly debating whether to fill the gaps left by U.S. cuts, and what U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent podcast appearance reveals about the administration’s shifting aid priorities. 

To unpack these developments, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger is joined by Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene and Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters 

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Global Development Headlines
00:58 USAID Program Terminations and Confusion
09:06 Congressional Role and Future of Foreign Aid
12:24 PEPFAR and Bipartisan Support 
16:57 European Foreign Aid Dynamics
25:20 Marco Rubio's Perspective on Foreign Aid]]>1808aid,development,pepfar,rubio,trump,usaidfalse92fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trump-s-usaid-abolition-plan-what-does-it-mean-for-global-development--65344991The Trump administration formally informed Congress of its proposal to abolish USAID, merging key aspects of its operations into the State Department. This plan involves the complete shutdown of the agency and subsequent staff layoffs. Despite this, the U.S. government intends to preserve vital programs concerning humanitarian assistance, food security, and global health, potentially leading to the rehiring of some former USAID employees under the State Department. 

This week we are also in Oxford, United Kingdom, at Skoll World Forum — the annual gathering for social entrepreneurs. We take a look at the key takeaways from the conference, where leaders from some of the world’s biggest foundations are calling philanthropists to step up and do more to help the nonprofit sector.

To explore these stories, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65344991Fri, 04 Apr 2025 07:38:50 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe Trump administration formally informed Congress of itshttps://www.devex.com/news/trump-administration-reveals-its-plans-to-congress-to-abolish-usaid-109753, merging key aspects of its operations into...The Trump administration formally informed Congress of its proposal to abolish USAID, merging key aspects of its operations into the State Department. This plan involves the complete shutdown of the agency and subsequent staff layoffs. Despite this, the U.S. government intends to preserve vital programs concerning humanitarian assistance, food security, and global health, potentially leading to the rehiring of some former USAID employees under the State Department. 

This week we are also in Oxford, United Kingdom, at Skoll World Forum — the annual gathering for social entrepreneurs. We take a look at the key takeaways from the conference, where leaders from some of the world’s biggest foundations are calling philanthropists to step up and do more to help the nonprofit sector.

To explore these stories, Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2175aid,development,trump,usaidfalse91fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/which-programs-were-hit-hardest-by-the-trump-administration-s-aid-cuts--65178003This week, the Trump administration released a detailed inventory of 5,341 discontinued USAID programs, alongside the 898 projects that are still active. We dig into the ins and outs of the data to assess the true scope of the government's policy changes, as well as reveal which programs have been most affected. 

During the conversation, we also discussed how the Trump administration’s foreign policy is affecting U.N. agencies and their funding. 

On the topic of the United Nations, the U.N. Arab Group, which represents the U.N.’s 22 Arab countries, has formally nominated Palestinian diplomat Riyad Mansour for the U.N. General Assembly presidency, setting the stage for a clash with the U.S. and Israel.

For the latest podcast episode, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch to discuss these stories and others.

NOTE ON THIS EPISODE: This podcast was recorded before the White House withdrew Rep. Elise Stefanik’s nomination to be the U.S. ambassador to the U.N. U.S. President Donald Trump posted on the social media platform Truth Social Thursday that he has asked her to step aside so Republicans could keep the majority in the House of Representatives and not risk giving up her seat.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65178003Fri, 28 Mar 2025 08:02:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, the Trump administration released a detailed https://www.devex.com/news/the-usaid-awards-the-trump-administration-killed-and-kept-109732, alongside the 898 projects that are still active. We dig into the ins and outs of the data to assess...This week, the Trump administration released a detailed inventory of 5,341 discontinued USAID programs, alongside the 898 projects that are still active. We dig into the ins and outs of the data to assess the true scope of the government's policy changes, as well as reveal which programs have been most affected. 

During the conversation, we also discussed how the Trump administration’s foreign policy is affecting U.N. agencies and their funding. 

On the topic of the United Nations, the U.N. Arab Group, which represents the U.N.’s 22 Arab countries, has formally nominated Palestinian diplomat Riyad Mansour for the U.N. General Assembly presidency, setting the stage for a clash with the U.S. and Israel.

For the latest podcast episode, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger and Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch to discuss these stories and others.

NOTE ON THIS EPISODE: This podcast was recorded before the White House withdrew Rep. Elise Stefanik’s nomination to be the U.S. ambassador to the U.N. U.S. President Donald Trump posted on the social media platform Truth Social Thursday that he has asked her to step aside so Republicans could keep the majority in the House of Representatives and not risk giving up her seat.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2166aid,development,trump,un,usaidfalse90fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-how-research-helps-tackle-climate-driven-violence-against-women-workers--65131420world of work and the cutting-edge research that’s not only mapping its impacts but also improving our understanding of potential solutions.

Hear directly from Kathy Baughman McLeod, the founder and CEO of Climate Resilience for All, a global NGO dedicated to strengthening women's health and livelihoods in the face of climate-driven extreme heat, and Shikha Silliman Bhattacharjee, the head of research, policy, and innovation at human and labor rights organization Equidem, as they discuss how their research is helping to fill an increasingly urgent gap. In conversation with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar, they also discuss how research can help document climate-driven GBVH in the world of work in a way that centers the lived experience of women workers.

This episode is sponsored by Funders Organized for Right in the Global Economy (FORGE).

Visit Women Rising — a new narrative series spotlighting the intersection of gender-based violence and harassment and climate change in the world of work.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65131420Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:54:40 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special episode of This Week in Global Development, Devex dives deeper into how climate change is driving increased gender-based violence and harassment in the...world of work and the cutting-edge research that’s not only mapping its impacts but also improving our understanding of potential solutions.

Hear directly from Kathy Baughman McLeod, the founder and CEO of Climate Resilience for All, a global NGO dedicated to strengthening women's health and livelihoods in the face of climate-driven extreme heat, and Shikha Silliman Bhattacharjee, the head of research, policy, and innovation at human and labor rights organization Equidem, as they discuss how their research is helping to fill an increasingly urgent gap. In conversation with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar, they also discuss how research can help document climate-driven GBVH in the world of work in a way that centers the lived experience of women workers.

This episode is sponsored by Funders Organized for Right in the Global Economy (FORGE).

Visit Women Rising — a new narrative series spotlighting the intersection of gender-based violence and harassment and climate change in the world of work.
]]>2335climate,womenfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unpacking-proposals-to-overhaul-us-foreign-aid--65010550This week we dig into the different proposals on how the Trump administration could reform foreign assistance. According to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s post on the social media platform X, 1,000 programs will be retained, with plans to potentially fold USAID into the State Department. 

We also learned that Peter Marocco, who acted as deputy administrator of USAID for 6 weeks, has officially left USAID but remains at the State Department. However, given that the two government bodies may be interlinked in the not-so-distant future, he may still play a role in the shaping of U.S. foreign aid.
 
With programs being canceled, reinstated, and canceled again, a great deal of uncertainty remains on what programs will be kept at the end of the process. 

The Department of Government Efficiency has also taken over the U.S. Institute of Peace, which appears to be the first nonprofit Elon Musk’s agency attempted to breach.

What will become of USAID? Which foreign aid programs will be kept?

To unpack these stories, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65010550Fri, 21 Mar 2025 08:35:20 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we dig into the different proposals on how the Trump administration could reform foreign assistance. According to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s post on the social media platform X,...This week we dig into the different proposals on how the Trump administration could reform foreign assistance. According to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s post on the social media platform X, 1,000 programs will be retained, with plans to potentially fold USAID into the State Department. 

We also learned that Peter Marocco, who acted as deputy administrator of USAID for 6 weeks, has officially left USAID but remains at the State Department. However, given that the two government bodies may be interlinked in the not-so-distant future, he may still play a role in the shaping of U.S. foreign aid.
 
With programs being canceled, reinstated, and canceled again, a great deal of uncertainty remains on what programs will be kept at the end of the process. 

The Department of Government Efficiency has also taken over the U.S. Institute of Peace, which appears to be the first nonprofit Elon Musk’s agency attempted to breach.

What will become of USAID? Which foreign aid programs will be kept?

To unpack these stories, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1653aid,development,doge,marocco,usaidfalse89fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-does-the-latest-federal-ruling-mean-for-us-foreign-assistance--64876625This week a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to pay USAID partners for billions of dollars in foreign aid work completed before Feb. 13. The ruling also stated that the president does not have “unbounded power” in the realm of foreign affairs. This means that the U.S. government must spend the money that’s already been appropriated by Congress. We discuss whether this ruling will hold and what it will mean for U.S. foreign assistance. 

We also analyze the potential effects of evolving U.S. foreign aid policies on the World Food Programme's fight against global hunger and contemplate whether philanthropy will fill the gap left by governments. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex’s David Ainsworth sits down with Anna Gawel and Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64876625Fri, 14 Mar 2025 08:11:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week a federal judge https://www.devex.com/news/judge-orders-trump-to-pay-usaid-partners-rejects-unbounded-power-109614 for billions of dollars in foreign aid work completed before Feb. 13. The ruling also stated that the president does not have...This week a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to pay USAID partners for billions of dollars in foreign aid work completed before Feb. 13. The ruling also stated that the president does not have “unbounded power” in the realm of foreign affairs. This means that the U.S. government must spend the money that’s already been appropriated by Congress. We discuss whether this ruling will hold and what it will mean for U.S. foreign assistance. 

We also analyze the potential effects of evolving U.S. foreign aid policies on the World Food Programme's fight against global hunger and contemplate whether philanthropy will fill the gap left by governments. 

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex’s David Ainsworth sits down with Anna Gawel and Ayenat Mersie for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1993aid,development,philanthropy,usa,usaidfalse88fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-battle-for-usaid-s-future-and-shock-cuts-to-uk-foreign-assistance--64743744This week the U.S. Supreme Court has rejected the Trump administration’s attempt to not pay billions of dollars in foreign aid to USAID and State Department partners — lifting a temporary reprieve granted by Chief Justice John Roberts. 

On the topic of USAID, the U.S. African Development Foundation mounted a direct challenge to the Trump administration. Wednesday saw USADF staff physically prevent Department of Government Efficiency officials from entering their offices.

Across the pond, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the shifting of billions in aid spending to fund a larger military. This means that the U.K.’s aid budget will be cut to just 0.3% of gross national income by 2027, despite a manifesto promise to increase this figure from 0.5% back to 0.7%. 

To explore these stories and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Deputy Managing Editor Fiona Zublin and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64743744Fri, 07 Mar 2025 08:12:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week the U.S. Supreme Court has https://www.devex.com/news/supreme-court-hands-usaid-partners-a-win-109540 the Trump administration’s attempt to not pay billions of dollars in foreign aid to...This week the U.S. Supreme Court has rejected the Trump administration’s attempt to not pay billions of dollars in foreign aid to USAID and State Department partners — lifting a temporary reprieve granted by Chief Justice John Roberts. 

On the topic of USAID, the U.S. African Development Foundation mounted a direct challenge to the Trump administration. Wednesday saw USADF staff physically prevent Department of Government Efficiency officials from entering their offices.

Across the pond, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the shifting of billions in aid spending to fund a larger military. This means that the U.K.’s aid budget will be cut to just 0.3% of gross national income by 2027, despite a manifesto promise to increase this figure from 0.5% back to 0.7%. 

To explore these stories and others, Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Deputy Managing Editor Fiona Zublin and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1390aid,trump,uk,usiadfalse87fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-latest-on-the-dismantling-of-usaid--64608269This week we closely followed the latest developments on the U.S. government’s attempt at dismantling USAID.

We learned that the Trump administration has decided to cut 1,600 USAID personnel based in the United States, while also placing nearly all direct hires worldwide on administrative leave by midnight Sunday.

Simultaneously, the Trump administration terminated nearly 10,000 foreign aid awards under USAID and the U.S. State Department, including those delivering critical humanitarian aid.

And following a contentious legal battle in the lower courts, the U.S. Supreme Court paused a judge’s order forcing the government to pay $2 billion in frozen foreign aid, giving the Trump administration a temporary reprieve from the directive issued by a U.S. District Court.

What’s next for USAID and U.S. foreign assistance?

To take a look at the situation, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64608269Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:50:44 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we closely followed the latest developments on the U.S. government’s attempt at dismantling https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096. We learned that the Trump administration has...This week we closely followed the latest developments on the U.S. government’s attempt at dismantling USAID.

We learned that the Trump administration has decided to cut 1,600 USAID personnel based in the United States, while also placing nearly all direct hires worldwide on administrative leave by midnight Sunday.

Simultaneously, the Trump administration terminated nearly 10,000 foreign aid awards under USAID and the U.S. State Department, including those delivering critical humanitarian aid.

And following a contentious legal battle in the lower courts, the U.S. Supreme Court paused a judge’s order forcing the government to pay $2 billion in frozen foreign aid, giving the Trump administration a temporary reprieve from the directive issued by a U.S. District Court.

What’s next for USAID and U.S. foreign assistance?

To take a look at the situation, Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2096aid,development,usa,usaidfalse86fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/in-legal-limbo-inside-the-lawsuits-against-trump-s-aid-freeze--64490014This week we were closely following the lawsuits filed against the Trump administration for freezing U.S. foreign assistance. One of the lawsuits targets Elon Musk, stating that the billionaire has decimated the U.S. Agency for International Development without the authority to do so. However, the government appears to be determined to fight back against those who are ready to challenge its decisions. 

We also look back at the Munich Security Conference, where we were media partners. From conversations on food security to the attendance of U.S. Vice President JD Vance, we discuss the key takeaways from the event. 

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar, and Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel, to dig into these stories and more. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64490014Fri, 21 Feb 2025 08:10:18 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we were closely following the lawsuits filed against the Trump administration for freezing U.S. foreign assistance.https://www.devex.com/news/anonymous-usaid-employees-contractors-sue-musk-doge-109410, stating that the billionaire has...This week we were closely following the lawsuits filed against the Trump administration for freezing U.S. foreign assistance. One of the lawsuits targets Elon Musk, stating that the billionaire has decimated the U.S. Agency for International Development without the authority to do so. However, the government appears to be determined to fight back against those who are ready to challenge its decisions. 

We also look back at the Munich Security Conference, where we were media partners. From conversations on food security to the attendance of U.S. Vice President JD Vance, we discuss the key takeaways from the event. 

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar, and Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel, to dig into these stories and more. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2040aid,development,msc25,musk,trump,usaidfalse85fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fighting-back-can-lawsuits-save-us-foreign-aid--64372949This week we were closely tracking the legal battles surrounding USAID's closure, with lawsuits filed by both former contractors and NGO partners as the fallout from the agency's shutdown continues to reverberate across the global development community.

USAID is not the only institution in the sector being affected by the new U.S. administration. We also reported that the U.N.’s International Organization for Migration has edited out any references to sexual reproductive rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion in an apparent effort to prevent the Trump administration from making severe budget cuts to their programs.

What will be the outcome of the lawsuits? How will other U.N. agencies react to Trump’s presidency?

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Anna Gawel and Colum Lynch to break down these stories, and others. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64372949Fri, 14 Feb 2025 08:22:09 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we were closely tracking the legal battles surrounding https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096's closure, with lawsuits filed by both...This week we were closely tracking the legal battles surrounding USAID's closure, with lawsuits filed by both former contractors and NGO partners as the fallout from the agency's shutdown continues to reverberate across the global development community.

USAID is not the only institution in the sector being affected by the new U.S. administration. We also reported that the U.N.’s International Organization for Migration has edited out any references to sexual reproductive rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion in an apparent effort to prevent the Trump administration from making severe budget cuts to their programs.

What will be the outcome of the lawsuits? How will other U.N. agencies react to Trump’s presidency?

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Anna Gawel and Colum Lynch to break down these stories, and others. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1882aid,development,migration,un,usaidfalse84fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/us-foreign-aid-goes-dark-usaid-s-final-hours--64242748This week our entire newsroom has been on the story of how the Trump administration has dismantled the U.S. Agency for International Development. 

The administrative leave of much of USAID's workforce, including senior executives and almost all international staff, coupled with the layoff of thousands of contractors, has cast a long shadow over the future of U.S. foreign aid as we know it and raised concerns across the development sector about the continuity of critical programs.

On Feb. 5, our team was on the ground as thousands rallied outside the U.S. Capitol, protesting the gutting of USAID.

What will happen next? 

To make sense of the situation, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Devex Reporters Sara Jerving and Elissa Miolene for the latest edition of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64242748Fri, 07 Feb 2025 08:28:09 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week our entire newsroom has been on the story of how the Trump administration has https://www.devex.com/news/usaid-may-be-reorganized-absorbed-by-the-state-department-rubio-says-109271the...This week our entire newsroom has been on the story of how the Trump administration has dismantled the U.S. Agency for International Development. 

The administrative leave of much of USAID's workforce, including senior executives and almost all international staff, coupled with the layoff of thousands of contractors, has cast a long shadow over the future of U.S. foreign aid as we know it and raised concerns across the development sector about the continuity of critical programs.

On Feb. 5, our team was on the ground as thousands rallied outside the U.S. Capitol, protesting the gutting of USAID.

What will happen next? 

To make sense of the situation, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Devex Reporters Sara Jerving and Elissa Miolene for the latest edition of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1524development,trump,usa,usaidfalse83fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-finland-s-development-minister-on-the-impact-of-far-right-parties-on-aid--64227992
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64227992Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:32:40 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentVille Tavio, Finland’s minister for foreign trade and development and a member of the right-wing Finns Party, which he described as "somewhat like a Finland First party,” addressed misconceptions about conservative hostility toward international...
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1261falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fallout-from-the-us-foreign-aid-freeze--64077185
The U.S. State Department issued a waiver Wednesday for “life-saving humanitarian assistance,” but ambiguity remains over which programs qualify. It is still unclear what this specifically applies to and whether it includes initiatives such as PEPFAR, which provides lifesaving antiretrovirals for millions of people living with HIV/AIDS.

In this episode of the This week in global development podcast, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth is joined by Devex Senior Reporters Adva Saldinger and Sara Jerving for the latest updates on this rapidly evolving situation and to discuss what the long-term implications for U.S. foreign aid infrastructure could be.


Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64077185Fri, 31 Jan 2025 10:14:03 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWidespread confusion and uncertainty continue to ripple through the development sector following the U.S. government’s stop-work order on foreign aid programs. The directive has already resulted in mass layoffs this week, particularly among...
The U.S. State Department issued a waiver Wednesday for “life-saving humanitarian assistance,” but ambiguity remains over which programs qualify. It is still unclear what this specifically applies to and whether it includes initiatives such as PEPFAR, which provides lifesaving antiretrovirals for millions of people living with HIV/AIDS.

In this episode of the This week in global development podcast, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth is joined by Devex Senior Reporters Adva Saldinger and Sara Jerving for the latest updates on this rapidly evolving situation and to discuss what the long-term implications for U.S. foreign aid infrastructure could be.


Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. 
]]>2080false82fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-gavi-ceo-outlines-leap-into-6-0-strategy-putting-countries-first--63928376
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63928376Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:06:05 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentSania Nishtar, the CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, sees the organization’s new five-year strategy, dubbed “Gavi 6.0,” as an opportunity for a reset. She provided Devex with an exclusive preview. https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters to the...
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1576falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-creating-a-more-inclusive-world-for-people-with-intellectual-disabilities--63860759
This episode is sponsored by Special Olympics.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63860759Fri, 24 Jan 2025 09:18:04 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentSpecial Olympics' Chief of Global Youth & Education, Jackie Jodl, joins Raj Kumar for a podcast episode looking at how sports and education can drive societal change, the state of social inclusion for people with intellectual and learning...
This episode is sponsored by Special Olympics.]]>2437falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-does-trump-s-first-week-in-office-mean-for-global-development--63851070In his first week in office, U.S. President Donald Trump has implemented several executive orders, including a 90-day freeze on U.S. foreign assistance funding. The executive order states that the “foreign aid industry and bureaucracy are not aligned with American interests” and the Trump administration plans to review aid programs to decide what should stay and what should go.

Trump also ordered the nation’s exit from the World Health Organization, citing the agency’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises as one of the main reasons for his decision. 

Reporting live from Davos this week, this week’s episode of This week in global development podcast also brings you reactions to the start of Trump’s second term from the World Economic Forum annual meeting.

Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to discuss Trump’s presidency and provide an update from the WEF annual meeting in Davos. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63851070Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:20:15 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn his first week in office, U.S. President Donald Trump has implemented several executive orders, https://www.devex.com/news/trump-s-foreign-assistance-freeze-generates-uncertainty-and-confusion-109123. The executive order states that the “foreign...In his first week in office, U.S. President Donald Trump has implemented several executive orders, including a 90-day freeze on U.S. foreign assistance funding. The executive order states that the “foreign aid industry and bureaucracy are not aligned with American interests” and the Trump administration plans to review aid programs to decide what should stay and what should go.

Trump also ordered the nation’s exit from the World Health Organization, citing the agency’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises as one of the main reasons for his decision. 

Reporting live from Davos this week, this week’s episode of This week in global development podcast also brings you reactions to the start of Trump’s second term from the World Economic Forum annual meeting.

Devex Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to discuss Trump’s presidency and provide an update from the WEF annual meeting in Davos. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1739davos,development,health,trump,twigd,weffalse81fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-people-may-die-if-us-cuts-foreign-aid-says-unaids-chief--63840217On a special special episode of This Week in Global Development, Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, warned of major consequences for people with HIV if U.S. under President Trump cuts funding to programs such as PEPFAR and the Global Fund.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63840217Thu, 23 Jan 2025 09:59:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentOn a special special episode of This Week in Global Development, Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, warned of major consequences for people with HIV if U.S. under President Trump cuts funding to programs such as PEPFAR and the Global Fund....On a special special episode of This Week in Global Development, Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, warned of major consequences for people with HIV if U.S. under President Trump cuts funding to programs such as PEPFAR and the Global Fund.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1338davos,development,health,trump,twigd,unaids,weffalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-iom-chief-talks-about-the-realities-of-migration-and-deportation--63798500Migration is surging worldwide — as is the backlash to it. Perhaps nowhere is this backlash more evident at the moment than in the United States, where newly minted President Donald Trump has said he will deport all of the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the country.

Amy Pope doesn’t think that is practical, or productive.

Pope, director-general of the International Organization for Migration, which falls under the United Nations, told Devex that such a mass deportation would have a range of repercussions, assuming it’s even feasible.

“In the United States where you’re talking over 11 million people who’ve been living and working there, frankly — and I know this because I worked at a time when more than 400,000 people were removed in a year under President Obama — the system cannot bear removing 11 million people. The logistical capacity does not exist,” she told Devex Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar during a special episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

While the logistical capacity may not exist, the economic toll certainly does, Pope said.
“It is clear that American industry has been relying on migrants — high-skilled, low-skilled, irregular, regular — across the board. So if you start to pull out that workforce, if you do not have another workforce ready to go in, you’re going to see the impact across the board,” she said, citing industries such as agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and food processing.

Moreover, irregular migration strengthens smugglers and traffickers while weakening trust in governments.

“It undermines confidence in government. Because if the government cannot manage its border and if there’s a perception that everybody can come to the border and cross and you don’t have to wait in a line … it undermines public confidence,” she said.

Rather, governments need to set up a system where migration is legal and orderly.
“If you’ve been living in a country, if you have been holding a job, paying your taxes, not committing crimes, kids are in school, whatever … you offer people a way to regularize their status,” she said. “Let’s give them status — make sure they’re paid fairly, make sure that their entry into the workforce is being done in a regular way.”

To hear more of Pope’s thoughts — including why people migrate and what aid agencies can do in a time of ever-tightening budgets — check out the podcast.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63798500Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:46:06 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentMigration is surging worldwide — as is the backlash to it. Perhaps nowhere is this backlash more evident at the moment than in the United States, where newly minted President Donald Trump has said he will deport all of the estimated 11 million...Migration is surging worldwide — as is the backlash to it. Perhaps nowhere is this backlash more evident at the moment than in the United States, where newly minted President Donald Trump has said he will deport all of the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the country.

Amy Pope doesn’t think that is practical, or productive.

Pope, director-general of the International Organization for Migration, which falls under the United Nations, told Devex that such a mass deportation would have a range of repercussions, assuming it’s even feasible.

“In the United States where you’re talking over 11 million people who’ve been living and working there, frankly — and I know this because I worked at a time when more than 400,000 people were removed in a year under President Obama — the system cannot bear removing 11 million people. The logistical capacity does not exist,” she told Devex Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar during a special episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

While the logistical capacity may not exist, the economic toll certainly does, Pope said.
“It is clear that American industry has been relying on migrants — high-skilled, low-skilled, irregular, regular — across the board. So if you start to pull out that workforce, if you do not have another workforce ready to go in, you’re going to see the impact across the board,” she said, citing industries such as agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and food processing.

Moreover, irregular migration strengthens smugglers and traffickers while weakening trust in governments.

“It undermines confidence in government. Because if the government cannot manage its border and if there’s a perception that everybody can come to the border and cross and you don’t have to wait in a line … it undermines public confidence,” she said.

Rather, governments need to set up a system where migration is legal and orderly.
“If you’ve been living in a country, if you have been holding a job, paying your taxes, not committing crimes, kids are in school, whatever … you offer people a way to regularize their status,” she said. “Let’s give them status — make sure they’re paid fairly, make sure that their entry into the workforce is being done in a regular way.”

To hear more of Pope’s thoughts — including why people migrate and what aid agencies can do in a time of ever-tightening budgets — check out the podcast.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1375development,iom,migration,pope,trumpfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-are-the-key-global-development-trends-to-watch-in-2025--63723458As we kickstart 2025, we speak to Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar about the trends he believes will shape global development this coming year. We examine how significant shifts, including reduced government funding in traditionally generous countries and the evolving role of philanthropy, will impact the sector.

We also revisit our exclusive interview with USAID chief Samantha Power and highlight key takeaways from the agency's latest report on localization.

What does the incoming Trump administration mean for The World Bank? What can we expect from Davos?
 
To dig into these topics and others Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to dissect for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, with a look ahead to the World Economic Forum.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63723458Fri, 17 Jan 2025 08:37:19 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs we kickstart 2025, we speak to Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar about the trends he believes will https://www.devex.com/news/in-2025-global-development-s-new-era-begins-109022. We examine how significant shifts, including reduced...As we kickstart 2025, we speak to Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar about the trends he believes will shape global development this coming year. We examine how significant shifts, including reduced government funding in traditionally generous countries and the evolving role of philanthropy, will impact the sector.

We also revisit our exclusive interview with USAID chief Samantha Power and highlight key takeaways from the agency's latest report on localization.

What does the incoming Trump administration mean for The World Bank? What can we expect from Davos?
 
To dig into these topics and others Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to dissect for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, with a look ahead to the World Economic Forum.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1629davos,development,finance,localization,twigd,usaidfalse80fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-samantha-power-performed-a-delicate-balancing-act-as-usaid-chief--63684623In one of her last interviews before leaving office, Samantha Power spoke with Devex for a special edition of its This Week in Global Development podcast about navigating that push-and-pull, and how she expects the Trump administration’s USAID to face similar challenges.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63684623Tue, 14 Jan 2025 09:49:50 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn one of her last interviews before leaving office, Samantha Power spoke with Devex for a special edition of its This Week in Global Development podcast about navigating that push-and-pull, and how she expects the Trump administration’s USAID to face...In one of her last interviews before leaving office, Samantha Power spoke with Devex for a special edition of its This Week in Global Development podcast about navigating that push-and-pull, and how she expects the Trump administration’s USAID to face similar challenges.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2847development,exclusive,power,usaidfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-will-the-trump-presidency-mean-for-the-united-nations--63634922As the world gets ready for a second Trump presidency, significant uncertainty surrounds the United Nations as the organization prepares to implement substantial funding cuts. With the new administration predicted to prioritize national security over humanitarian and human rights principles, China may seek to fill the void left by the United States. 

Faced with domestic economic pressures and competing priorities, European countries across the continent continued to make cuts to their aid budgets in 2024, including the European Commission. The trend is raising questions regarding the continent's commitment to addressing global challenges.

How will Trump’s approach to the U.N. be different to that of Biden’s? Will European countries continue to cut their foreign aid funding in 2025?

To discuss these questions, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Tom Hart, the president and CEO of InterAction, as well as Devex Global Development Reporter Colum Lynch, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63634922Fri, 10 Jan 2025 08:17:44 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs the world gets ready for a second Trump presidency, significant https://www.devex.com/news/the-year-of-uncertainty-108998 as the organization prepares to implement substantial funding cuts. With the new administration predicted to prioritize...As the world gets ready for a second Trump presidency, significant uncertainty surrounds the United Nations as the organization prepares to implement substantial funding cuts. With the new administration predicted to prioritize national security over humanitarian and human rights principles, China may seek to fill the void left by the United States. 

Faced with domestic economic pressures and competing priorities, European countries across the continent continued to make cuts to their aid budgets in 2024, including the European Commission. The trend is raising questions regarding the continent's commitment to addressing global challenges.

How will Trump’s approach to the U.N. be different to that of Biden’s? Will European countries continue to cut their foreign aid funding in 2025?

To discuss these questions, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Tom Hart, the president and CEO of InterAction, as well as Devex Global Development Reporter Colum Lynch, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1790europe,trump,uk,un,usafalse79fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jimmy-carter-s-legacy-on-global-health--63549663legacy of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday. Following his four-year presidency, Carter devoted four decades to humanitarian efforts, founding The Carter Center in 1982 to promote peace and improve global health. One of his most significant contributions was his campaign to eradicate Guinea worm disease, which has now been eliminated in 17 countries.

The team also delves into a new plan to establish an African-led response to the HIV epidemic, as well as a report from Publish What You Fund, which highlights gaps in donor nations’ localization targets.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549663Fri, 03 Jan 2025 09:47:46 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week’s podcast kicks off with a look at the https://www.devex.com/news/devex-newswire-america-s-humanitarian-in-chief-passes-on-108989 of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday. Following his four-year...legacy of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday. Following his four-year presidency, Carter devoted four decades to humanitarian efforts, founding The Carter Center in 1982 to promote peace and improve global health. One of his most significant contributions was his campaign to eradicate Guinea worm disease, which has now been eliminated in 17 countries.

The team also delves into a new plan to establish an African-led response to the HIV epidemic, as well as a report from Publish What You Fund, which highlights gaps in donor nations’ localization targets.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1756false78fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-were-trends-that-shaped-global-development-in-2024--63396867key trends that have shaped the global development landscape. From the impact of declining aid budgets in high-income countries to Donald Trump’s reelection, we examine how these forces are influencing the sector and consider their implications for the year ahead.

We also explore the potential of cash transfers to revolutionize the aid sector and challenge the traditional global financial architecture.

In the United States, a landmark bill is poised to significantly expand the reach of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, potentially enabling the agency to operate in middle-income countries for the first time.

To look back at 2024 and to dig into these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Yolande Wright, vice president of partnerships at GiveDirectly, and Devex Senior Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.


Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63396867Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:29:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we delve into the https://www.devex.com/news/the-trends-that-shaped-global-development-in-2024-108944. From the impact of declining aid budgets in high-income countries to Donald Trump’s reelection, we examine how these forces are...key trends that have shaped the global development landscape. From the impact of declining aid budgets in high-income countries to Donald Trump’s reelection, we examine how these forces are influencing the sector and consider their implications for the year ahead.

We also explore the potential of cash transfers to revolutionize the aid sector and challenge the traditional global financial architecture.

In the United States, a landmark bill is poised to significantly expand the reach of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, potentially enabling the agency to operate in middle-income countries for the first time.

To look back at 2024 and to dig into these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Yolande Wright, vice president of partnerships at GiveDirectly, and Devex Senior Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.


Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2115false77fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-world-bank-initiative-and-an-infrastructure-project-in-africa--63298895This week, we take a look at the Civil Society and Social Innovation Alliance, known as CIVIC, a new, forthcoming World Bank Group initiative designed to support civil society organizations and social economy players. This venture seeks to foster more collaboration in line with the bank’s localization agenda, enabling civil society to play a crucial role in addressing global challenges.

On the topic of the World Bank, the financial institution announced $23.7 billion in contributions to the International Development Association, or IDA, the bank’s fund for providing grants and low-interest loans to 78 low-income countries. This is a 0.8% increase from the last replenishment of $23.5 billion in 2022 but falls short of the $27 billion that some advocates had hoped for.

We also discuss the Lobito corridor, which will connect Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo via a rail that runs to the Lobito port in Angola. With many seeing it as a key initiative in the U.S.' efforts to counter China's growing influence, we discuss the chances of it continuing under the Trump administration.

To dig into these stories, Devex’s Michael Igoe sits down with Aly Rahim, program manager of the Global Partnership for Social Accountability at the World Bank, and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63298895Fri, 13 Dec 2024 09:51:31 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we take a look at the Civil Society and Social Innovation Alliance, known as CIVIC, a new, forthcoming https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 initiative designed to support civil society organizations and social economy...This week, we take a look at the Civil Society and Social Innovation Alliance, known as CIVIC, a new, forthcoming World Bank Group initiative designed to support civil society organizations and social economy players. This venture seeks to foster more collaboration in line with the bank’s localization agenda, enabling civil society to play a crucial role in addressing global challenges.

On the topic of the World Bank, the financial institution announced $23.7 billion in contributions to the International Development Association, or IDA, the bank’s fund for providing grants and low-interest loans to 78 low-income countries. This is a 0.8% increase from the last replenishment of $23.5 billion in 2022 but falls short of the $27 billion that some advocates had hoped for.

We also discuss the Lobito corridor, which will connect Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo via a rail that runs to the Lobito port in Angola. With many seeing it as a key initiative in the U.S.' efforts to counter China's growing influence, we discuss the chances of it continuing under the Trump administration.

To dig into these stories, Devex’s Michael Igoe sits down with Aly Rahim, program manager of the Global Partnership for Social Accountability at the World Bank, and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2472africa,development,finance,usafalse76fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-do-trump-s-cabinet-picks-mean-for-u-s-foreign-aid--63176766yet-to-be-announced choice to lead the U.S. Agency for International Development — a decision poised to shape the future of U.S. global engagement.

In this episode of our weekly podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger and Nasra Ismail, founder and CEO of Generative Connections, to discuss the wide range of possibilities under a Trump presidency.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63176766Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:34:19 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs key appointments in the Trump administration come into focus, what will they mean for U.S. foreign aid? With high-profile picks such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for health secretary and Marco Rubio for secretary of state in the spotlight, all eyes in...yet-to-be-announced choice to lead the U.S. Agency for International Development — a decision poised to shape the future of U.S. global engagement.

In this episode of our weekly podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger and Nasra Ismail, founder and CEO of Generative Connections, to discuss the wide range of possibilities under a Trump presidency.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2043false75fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/did-cop29-deliver--63003084This week we reflect on the United Nations COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, which wrapped up over the weekend. We take a closer look at the outcomes, analyzing nations’ commitment to a new $300 billion annual global climate finance target and exploring whether it’s sufficient to support the needs of the lower-income countries most impacted by climate change.

While some steps have been taken to assist these states, significant doubts remain about the sufficiency of what nations agreed at COP29. 

Is the global community truly committed to addressing the climate crisis? Did COP29 deliver? What will be the next step in the climate negotiations?

For the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Clare Shakya, global managing director of climate at The Nature Conservancy, and Climate Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz, to look back at COP 29.
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63003084Tue, 26 Nov 2024 13:10:32 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we reflect on the United Nations COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, which wrapped up over the weekend. We https://www.devex.com/news/reporter-s-notebook-behind-the-scenes-at-cop29-108741 analyzing nations’ commitment to a new $300...This week we reflect on the United Nations COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, which wrapped up over the weekend. We take a closer look at the outcomes, analyzing nations’ commitment to a new $300 billion annual global climate finance target and exploring whether it’s sufficient to support the needs of the lower-income countries most impacted by climate change.

While some steps have been taken to assist these states, significant doubts remain about the sufficiency of what nations agreed at COP29. 

Is the global community truly committed to addressing the climate crisis? Did COP29 deliver? What will be the next step in the climate negotiations?

For the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Clare Shakya, global managing director of climate at The Nature Conservancy, and Climate Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz, to look back at COP 29.
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1957climate,cop29,developmentfalse74fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-latest-from-cop29-and-key-takeaways-from-the-g20-summit--62964056As COP29 comes to a close, we take a look at what negotiators are still racing to resolve in the final hours of the ambitious two-week conference. From building carbon markets to establishing private sector partnerships to meet the funding gap, we also contemplate whether the discussions will lead to meaningful action and address the issues posed by climate change.

This week, we were also on the ground in Brazil, closely following the conversations taking place at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. We dive into some of the global development issues on the agenda during the discussions, including slashing world hunger, reforming multilateral development banks, and taxing the superrich. 

To look back at these two crucial events on the global development calendar, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with James Mwangi, founder and CEO of Africa Climate Ventures, as well as Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62964056Fri, 22 Nov 2024 08:25:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs COP29 comes to a close, we take a look at what negotiators are still racing to resolve in the final hours of the ambitious two-week conference. From building carbon markets to establishing private sector partnerships to meet the funding gap, we...As COP29 comes to a close, we take a look at what negotiators are still racing to resolve in the final hours of the ambitious two-week conference. From building carbon markets to establishing private sector partnerships to meet the funding gap, we also contemplate whether the discussions will lead to meaningful action and address the issues posed by climate change.

This week, we were also on the ground in Brazil, closely following the conversations taking place at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. We dive into some of the global development issues on the agenda during the discussions, including slashing world hunger, reforming multilateral development banks, and taxing the superrich. 

To look back at these two crucial events on the global development calendar, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with James Mwangi, founder and CEO of Africa Climate Ventures, as well as Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2129climate,cop29,g20false73fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-role-can-the-private-sector-play-at-the-finance-cop--62953284https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62953284Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:59:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFor this special episode of our weekly podcast series, Devex EVP and Executive Editor Kate Warren sits down with leaders from Bayer and Mars who discuss the challenges and opportunities for the private sector in addressing climate change. 2601falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leaders-push-for-climate-adaptation-funding-in-the-face-of-escalating-risks--62755530https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62755530Sat, 16 Nov 2024 08:00:07 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFor this special episode of our weekly podcast series recorded at COP29, Devex climate reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz sits down with Kulthoum Omari-Motsumi from the Africa Adaptation Initiative, Patrick Verkooijen of the Global Center on Adaptation, and...2102falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-agricultural-innovation-and-science-can-help-tackle-climate-change--6275323711% of global greenhouse gas emissions coming from direct on farm emissions, and a potential game changer in mitigating it, if carried out sustainably. Yet currently agriculture receives only 4.3% of total mitigation and adaptation finance, making it an underutilized part of the solution to climate change.

“Maybe an important conversation to have in Baku is to say, of the finances that we have available, are we all focussing on the sectors where we can see true, tangible, and implementable solutions,” said CropLife International’s Vice President for public affairs and communications Laurie Goodwin, the global association that advocates on behalf of plant science innovation.

In a conversation with Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren, Goodwin and CropLife International’s President and CEO Emily Rees discussed advancements in plant science and the role of innovation, such as the use of digital tools — otherwise known as precision agriculture — in building resilience in global food systems. “It’s a real digital revolution, a farming revolution, that we’re seeing,” said Rees. “I think it’s really important to keep in mind what the benefits are of this from a biodiversity perspective, from a conservation perspective, from a land degradation perspective.”

Listen to their conversation to hear how innovative technologies are helping improve crop resilience and yields, and what more is needed to ensure these solutions reach smallholder farmers.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62753237Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:18:23 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAgriculture is both a driver of climate change, with around https://www.oecd.org/en/topics/sub-issues/climate-change-agriculture-and-food-systems.html coming from direct on farm emissions, and a potential game changer in mitigating it, if carried out...11% of global greenhouse gas emissions coming from direct on farm emissions, and a potential game changer in mitigating it, if carried out sustainably. Yet currently agriculture receives only 4.3% of total mitigation and adaptation finance, making it an underutilized part of the solution to climate change.

“Maybe an important conversation to have in Baku is to say, of the finances that we have available, are we all focussing on the sectors where we can see true, tangible, and implementable solutions,” said CropLife International’s Vice President for public affairs and communications Laurie Goodwin, the global association that advocates on behalf of plant science innovation.

In a conversation with Devex Executive Vice President and Executive Editor Kate Warren, Goodwin and CropLife International’s President and CEO Emily Rees discussed advancements in plant science and the role of innovation, such as the use of digital tools — otherwise known as precision agriculture — in building resilience in global food systems. “It’s a real digital revolution, a farming revolution, that we’re seeing,” said Rees. “I think it’s really important to keep in mind what the benefits are of this from a biodiversity perspective, from a conservation perspective, from a land degradation perspective.”

Listen to their conversation to hear how innovative technologies are helping improve crop resilience and yields, and what more is needed to ensure these solutions reach smallholder farmers.]]>2325falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/paving-the-way-how-africa50-is-driving-infrastructure-development-forward--62690991
In the latest episode of This Week in Global Development, Devex Executive Vice President Kate Warren speaks with Alain Ebobissé, CEO of Africa50, during the 2024 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group in Washington, D.C. Since its launch seven years ago, Africa50 has emerged as a key player in bridging the infrastructure gap across the continent, focusing on project development to create a pipeline of bankable projects.

Listen to the podcast episode for the full interview, where Warren and Ebobissé discuss the future of infrastructure in Africa, the importance of climate being built into infrastructure projects, and innovative strategies being employed to create lasting impact across the continent.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62690991Mon, 11 Nov 2024 13:41:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWhile the African continent has seen significant economic growth in recent years, it continues to grapple with critical infrastructure challenges that hamper business expansion, service delivery, trade, investment, as well as sustainable development. ...
In the latest episode of This Week in Global Development, Devex Executive Vice President Kate Warren speaks with Alain Ebobissé, CEO of Africa50, during the 2024 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group in Washington, D.C. Since its launch seven years ago, Africa50 has emerged as a key player in bridging the infrastructure gap across the continent, focusing on project development to create a pipeline of bankable projects.

Listen to the podcast episode for the full interview, where Warren and Ebobissé discuss the future of infrastructure in Africa, the importance of climate being built into infrastructure projects, and innovative strategies being employed to create lasting impact across the continent.]]>1505falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-are-we-watching-at-cop29--62689657
Labeled as the “finance COP,” one of the expected outcomes of the summit is a new financial goal for high-income countries to deliver to lower-income countries to address the challenges induced by climate change.

With Trump’s recent reelection and implications for development, as well as Europe’s ongoing cuts to development funding, serious questions remain over whether ambitious financial and political commitments will be made, and if the discussions will translate into meaningful action.

What are we expecting from COP29? Which are the conversations that we will be following?Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Devex reporters Jesse Chase-Lubitz and Ayenat Mersie for this special episode of our weekly podcast series ahead of COP 29.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62689657Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:36:47 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs the COP 29 U.N. climate conference kicks off in Baku, Azerbaijan, we look ahead to the potential implications of the discussions on the global development sector. Labeled as the “finance COP,” one of the expected outcomes of the summit is a new...
Labeled as the “finance COP,” one of the expected outcomes of the summit is a new financial goal for high-income countries to deliver to lower-income countries to address the challenges induced by climate change.

With Trump’s recent reelection and implications for development, as well as Europe’s ongoing cuts to development funding, serious questions remain over whether ambitious financial and political commitments will be made, and if the discussions will translate into meaningful action.

What are we expecting from COP29? Which are the conversations that we will be following?Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Devex reporters Jesse Chase-Lubitz and Ayenat Mersie for this special episode of our weekly podcast series ahead of COP 29.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1261falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-does-trump-s-election-mean-for-global-development--62662725This week, former President Donald Trump was elected for a second term at the White House. His reelection marks a radical shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities for a sweeping range of issues, not least abortion, climate, global health, and LGBTQI rights. 

The global development community is closely watching how things are unfolding in Washington, D.C. Major reforms to the international financial system are expected, as well as cuts in funding to the U.S. Agency for International Development and the United Nations.

How will Trump approach foreign policy? Will China capitalize on the U.S.’s withdrawal from the international scene? What does the result mean for international climate finance?

To dig into these questions and discuss what the outcome of the U.S. elections means for global development,  Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with reporters Colum Lynch and Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62662725Fri, 08 Nov 2024 08:32:40 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, former President Donald Trump was elected for a second term at the White House. His reelection marks a radical shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities for a sweeping range of issues, not least...This week, former President Donald Trump was elected for a second term at the White House. His reelection marks a radical shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities for a sweeping range of issues, not least abortion, climate, global health, and LGBTQI rights. 

The global development community is closely watching how things are unfolding in Washington, D.C. Major reforms to the international financial system are expected, as well as cuts in funding to the U.S. Agency for International Development and the United Nations.

How will Trump approach foreign policy? Will China capitalize on the U.S.’s withdrawal from the international scene? What does the result mean for international climate finance?

To dig into these questions and discuss what the outcome of the U.S. elections means for global development,  Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with reporters Colum Lynch and Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2415development,election,harris,politics,trump,usafalse72fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reflections-on-devex-world-from-politics-to-sales-pitches--62572492Devex World 2024, our flagship event that took place in Washington, D.C., alongside the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings. From discussions with philanthropist Howard Buffett, who called for increased aid to Ukraine, to a conversation with former executive director of the World Food Programme David Beasley, who believes the U.S. can once again lead on foreign aid, the event brought together key figures in global development.

We also sat down with Republicans and Democrats to dig into what the U.S. election means for global development and discuss the direction that a Kamala Harris presidency or a Donald Trump presidency would take U.S. foreign policy.

For the latest edition of our weekly podcast series, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to look back at the highlights from Devex World 2024.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62572492Fri, 01 Nov 2024 09:56:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we discuss the key takeaways from https://www.devex.com/focus/devex_world, our flagship event that took place in Washington, D.C., alongside the World Bank-International Monetary Fund...Devex World 2024, our flagship event that took place in Washington, D.C., alongside the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings. From discussions with philanthropist Howard Buffett, who called for increased aid to Ukraine, to a conversation with former executive director of the World Food Programme David Beasley, who believes the U.S. can once again lead on foreign aid, the event brought together key figures in global development.

We also sat down with Republicans and Democrats to dig into what the U.S. election means for global development and discuss the direction that a Kamala Harris presidency or a Donald Trump presidency would take U.S. foreign policy.

For the latest edition of our weekly podcast series, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to look back at the highlights from Devex World 2024.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1843false71fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-how-multilateral-development-banks-can-better-address-climate-change--62527188With the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings wrapped up, all eyes are now turning to the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP29, to be held next month in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

So how do multilateral development banks stack up? Are their policies and programs enough to address climate shocks? Can and should they take on more risk? And is the money that MDBs have promised actually getting to where it needs to go?  

To explore these questions and more, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger speaks to Pepukaye Bardouille, director of the Bridgetown Initiative and special adviser on climate change to Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley; and Warren Evans, who has a long history of working on climate issues at multilateral development banks. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62527188Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:11:25 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith thehttps://www.devex.com/news/search?page%5Bnumber%5D=1&query%5B%5D=%22World%20Bank%20annual%20meetings%202024%22 wrapped up, all eyes are now turning to the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP29, to be held next month in...With the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings wrapped up, all eyes are now turning to the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP29, to be held next month in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

So how do multilateral development banks stack up? Are their policies and programs enough to address climate shocks? Can and should they take on more risk? And is the money that MDBs have promised actually getting to where it needs to go?  

To explore these questions and more, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger speaks to Pepukaye Bardouille, director of the Bridgetown Initiative and special adviser on climate change to Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley; and Warren Evans, who has a long history of working on climate issues at multilateral development banks. ]]>1814climate,development,financefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/live-from-devex-world-scaling-up-climate-finance--62499127On Thursday, Devex hosted its biannual Devex World summit in Washington, D.C. Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar was on hand to interview global development heavy hitters on stage — and also sat down with Climate Investment Funds CEO Tariye Gbadegesin. CIF, founded in 2008, is a $12 billion multilateral climate finance fund.

While all brains were focused on the World Bank annual meetings, they looked ahead to the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP29, in Baku, Azerbaijan. “One of the key objectives of the Baku COP is to deliver a [new collective quantified goal, or NCQG], which are basically national quantified goals for how we're going to deliver on climate finance,” Gbadegesin said. “The reality is that there are going to be challenges with raising these large sums of money because budgets are stretched for multiple reasons. Some of it is political, some of it is economic, some of it is security challenges.” The implications for climate funding, she said, are that every dollar has to go further — which is already the mission of CIF’s concessional finance model. 

Another key factor, she said, will be bringing in the private sector.

“What we need to do is figure out how to create that capital stack of funding where we are able to get 10-15% from the private sector to come alongside [multilateral development bank] funding, underpinned by concessional finance,” she said. “It's not hard to do on paper or in a financial model, but it's really hard.” Still, it’s possible, she explained — in past years, CIF was brought in to help finance solar and wind projects, she said, but now that’s no longer necessary for those technologies, and she believes that can happen for other new technologies.  

 Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62499127Fri, 25 Oct 2024 09:53:28 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentOn Thursday, Devex hosted its biannual Devex World summit in Washington, D.C. Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar was on hand to interview global development heavy hitters on stage — and also sat down with...On Thursday, Devex hosted its biannual Devex World summit in Washington, D.C. Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar was on hand to interview global development heavy hitters on stage — and also sat down with Climate Investment Funds CEO Tariye Gbadegesin. CIF, founded in 2008, is a $12 billion multilateral climate finance fund.

While all brains were focused on the World Bank annual meetings, they looked ahead to the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP29, in Baku, Azerbaijan. “One of the key objectives of the Baku COP is to deliver a [new collective quantified goal, or NCQG], which are basically national quantified goals for how we're going to deliver on climate finance,” Gbadegesin said. “The reality is that there are going to be challenges with raising these large sums of money because budgets are stretched for multiple reasons. Some of it is political, some of it is economic, some of it is security challenges.” The implications for climate funding, she said, are that every dollar has to go further — which is already the mission of CIF’s concessional finance model. 

Another key factor, she said, will be bringing in the private sector.

“What we need to do is figure out how to create that capital stack of funding where we are able to get 10-15% from the private sector to come alongside [multilateral development bank] funding, underpinned by concessional finance,” she said. “It's not hard to do on paper or in a financial model, but it's really hard.” Still, it’s possible, she explained — in past years, CIF was brought in to help finance solar and wind projects, she said, but now that’s no longer necessary for those technologies, and she believes that can happen for other new technologies.  

 Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1144climate,development,financefalse70fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-the-world-bank-s-new-gender-strategy--62476366World Bank Group released its new Gender Strategy earlier this year with three key aims: ending gender-based violence, expanding economic opportunities, and engaging more women as leaders.

But how will the bank achieve these lofty aims? Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with the bank’s Global Director for Gender Hana Brixi for our latest podcast to learn about how this new plan will be implemented and what exactly is changing. And Mary Borrowman, a policy fellow in the Gender Equality and Inclusion program at the Center for Global Development, shares her concerns about data, accountability, funding and a lack of country-level targets.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62476366Wed, 23 Oct 2024 17:58:39 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 released its https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/gender/brief/gender-strategy-update-2024-30-accelerating-equality-and-empowerment-for-all earlier this year with three key aims: ending...World Bank Group released its new Gender Strategy earlier this year with three key aims: ending gender-based violence, expanding economic opportunities, and engaging more women as leaders.

But how will the bank achieve these lofty aims? Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with the bank’s Global Director for Gender Hana Brixi for our latest podcast to learn about how this new plan will be implemented and what exactly is changing. And Mary Borrowman, a policy fellow in the Gender Equality and Inclusion program at the Center for Global Development, shares her concerns about data, accountability, funding and a lack of country-level targets.]]>2360development,finance,genderfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-reforming-the-international-financial-system-and-the-ida-replenishment--62440705
Devex senior reporter Adva Saldinger speaks to Lord Mark Malloch Brown, who's co-leading an initiative aimed at assessing and providing recommendations for these Bretton Woods institutions, and Gates Foundation's president of global advocacy, Gargee Ghosh, about the challenges facing the IDA replenishment in December.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62440705Mon, 21 Oct 2024 18:06:48 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis is the first of a series of three special episodes of This Week in Global Development tied to the World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings in Washington, D.C. Devex senior reporter Adva Saldinger speaks to Lord Mark Malloch Brown,...
Devex senior reporter Adva Saldinger speaks to Lord Mark Malloch Brown, who's co-leading an initiative aimed at assessing and providing recommendations for these Bretton Woods institutions, and Gates Foundation's president of global advocacy, Gargee Ghosh, about the challenges facing the IDA replenishment in December.]]>2097falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-ahead-to-the-world-bank-annual-meetings--62408188As we look ahead to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund annual meetings, we discuss what to expect from the summit, including whether the decisions made will have a meaningful impact and help overcome some of the biggest challenges in global development. 

With the looming U.S. elections just around the corner, we consider the potential implications for the World Bank's strategy and the influence the vote may exert on this year’s annual meetings. While the rhetoric around this summit is based on the idea of “getting things done,” we contemplate how the global political landscape will influence outcomes. 

What next for the International Development Association replenishment? What will be the big announcements?

To discuss these questions and look ahead to the event, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Senior Reporters Adva Saldinger and Michael Igoe for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62408188Fri, 18 Oct 2024 08:03:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs we look ahead to the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 and the https://www.devex.com/organizations/international-monetary-fund-imf-44300 annual meetings, we discuss what to expect from the summit, including whether the...As we look ahead to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund annual meetings, we discuss what to expect from the summit, including whether the decisions made will have a meaningful impact and help overcome some of the biggest challenges in global development. 

With the looming U.S. elections just around the corner, we consider the potential implications for the World Bank's strategy and the influence the vote may exert on this year’s annual meetings. While the rhetoric around this summit is based on the idea of “getting things done,” we contemplate how the global political landscape will influence outcomes. 

What next for the International Development Association replenishment? What will be the big announcements?

To discuss these questions and look ahead to the event, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Senior Reporters Adva Saldinger and Michael Igoe for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1987development,finance,imffalse69fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sudan-s-forgotten-crisis-and-how-eu-foreign-aid-helps-big-business--62329123This week we published an exclusive interview with Nicholas Kristof, an award-winning New York Times columnist. He spoke about what he saw in Sudan and the global community’s failure to respond to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises — as the conflict in Gaza overshadows other crises around the world. As public attention wanes in the face of new crises, we question whether crisis fatigue is hindering humanitarian aid from reaching those in dire need.

We also discussed a study that revealed European companies — including Siemens, BioNTech SE, Möller Group, and SUEZ — are benefiting from investments in over 60% of the EU Global Gateway projects examined. We dig into the study’s details and whether Europe is doing enough to channel funds to the Global South and meet the needs of local communities. 

Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, it appears as though the Department for International Development — which was merged with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 2020 — will not be restored anytime soon. We learned that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer rejected top-level advice that he could restore a separate U.K. aid department with “negligible” cost and disruption, according to a new book by former senior development officials.

For the latest edition of our podcast series, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with reporters Elissa Miolene and Rob Merrick to discuss our top stories from the past week. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62329123Fri, 11 Oct 2024 08:12:54 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we published https://www.devex.com/news/the-world-as-a-whole-has-dropped-the-ball-on-sudan-108470, an award-winning New York Times columnist. He spoke about what he saw in Sudan and the global community’s failure to respond to one of the...This week we published an exclusive interview with Nicholas Kristof, an award-winning New York Times columnist. He spoke about what he saw in Sudan and the global community’s failure to respond to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises — as the conflict in Gaza overshadows other crises around the world. As public attention wanes in the face of new crises, we question whether crisis fatigue is hindering humanitarian aid from reaching those in dire need.

We also discussed a study that revealed European companies — including Siemens, BioNTech SE, Möller Group, and SUEZ — are benefiting from investments in over 60% of the EU Global Gateway projects examined. We dig into the study’s details and whether Europe is doing enough to channel funds to the Global South and meet the needs of local communities. 

Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, it appears as though the Department for International Development — which was merged with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 2020 — will not be restored anytime soon. We learned that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer rejected top-level advice that he could restore a separate U.K. aid department with “negligible” cost and disruption, according to a new book by former senior development officials.

For the latest edition of our podcast series, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with reporters Elissa Miolene and Rob Merrick to discuss our top stories from the past week. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1678aid,development,eu,europe,sudan,ukfalse68fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-the-foreign-aid-cuts-across-europe--62196396Last week, we published an exclusive article on the European Union’s plan to cut its development spending by €2 billion (around $2.2 billion) over the next three years. This will account for a 35% reduction in the amount of money it gives to the world’s lowest-income countries as the bloc aims to focus on other priorities, including supporting Ukraine and stopping migration to Europe.

The European Union is not the only entity in Europe reducing its aid budget. The French government also announced a €1 billion reduction in foreign aid — the third cut in the last two years — while the new U.K. development minister Anneliese Dodds suggested that the government will continue to direct the country’s aid spending on hosting refugees. 

Why are European countries slashing their aid budgets? What are the implications of these cuts?

To answer these questions and dig into the issue, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Deputy Managing Editor Fiona Zublin and Senior Reporter Vince Chadwick for the latest episode of our podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62196396Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:17:13 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week, we published an exclusive article on the European Union’s plan https://www.devex.com/news/scoop-the-eu-aid-cuts-revealed-108390 (around $2.2 billion) over the next three years. This will account for a 35% reduction in the amount of money it...Last week, we published an exclusive article on the European Union’s plan to cut its development spending by €2 billion (around $2.2 billion) over the next three years. This will account for a 35% reduction in the amount of money it gives to the world’s lowest-income countries as the bloc aims to focus on other priorities, including supporting Ukraine and stopping migration to Europe.

The European Union is not the only entity in Europe reducing its aid budget. The French government also announced a €1 billion reduction in foreign aid — the third cut in the last two years — while the new U.K. development minister Anneliese Dodds suggested that the government will continue to direct the country’s aid spending on hosting refugees. 

Why are European countries slashing their aid budgets? What are the implications of these cuts?

To answer these questions and dig into the issue, Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth sits down with Deputy Managing Editor Fiona Zublin and Senior Reporter Vince Chadwick for the latest episode of our podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1430aid,cuts,eu,europe,france,ukfalse67fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-unga-79-mdbs-want-to-cooperate-more-closely-what-progress-have-they-made--62161856In April, a group of multilateral development banks signed an agreement to work more closely together, known as a viewpoint note, which set a series of goals, including scaling up their financing capacity, and delivering more on climate. 

Earlier this week, at the U.N. General Assembly, the heads of MDBs sat down with U.N. leaders to identify how they could make more progress to deliver those goals. Devex heard from Ilan Goldfajn, president of the Inter-American Development Bank, about the steps taken so far.

Goldfajn said there had been considerable progress in unifying the goals of the MDBs with the Group of 20 major economies and with U.N. agencies.

MDBs have increased lending capacity by $400 billion over the next 10 years, mostly through reforms but partly due to closer working, Goldfajn explained. He added that last year, the banks had lent a quarter more on climate and doubled the amount of finance mobilized, compared to 2022.

He also highlighted several projects where IDB had worked together with the World Bank and the EIB.

Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sat down with Goldfajn for a special episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62161856Mon, 30 Sep 2024 08:04:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn April, a group of multilateral development banks signed an agreement to work more closely together, known as a https://www.iadb.org/en/news/multilateral-development-banks-deepen-collaboration-deliver-system, which set a series of goals, including...In April, a group of multilateral development banks signed an agreement to work more closely together, known as a viewpoint note, which set a series of goals, including scaling up their financing capacity, and delivering more on climate. 

Earlier this week, at the U.N. General Assembly, the heads of MDBs sat down with U.N. leaders to identify how they could make more progress to deliver those goals. Devex heard from Ilan Goldfajn, president of the Inter-American Development Bank, about the steps taken so far.

Goldfajn said there had been considerable progress in unifying the goals of the MDBs with the Group of 20 major economies and with U.N. agencies.

MDBs have increased lending capacity by $400 billion over the next 10 years, mostly through reforms but partly due to closer working, Goldfajn explained. He added that last year, the banks had lent a quarter more on climate and doubled the amount of finance mobilized, compared to 2022.

He also highlighted several projects where IDB had worked together with the World Bank and the EIB.

Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sat down with Goldfajn for a special episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1722development,finance,ungafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-unga-79-why-boots-on-the-ground-are-key-to-food-aid-according-to-jose-andres--62125697
For Andrés, having a set system for food aid doesn’t work. This explains WCK's unique approach. Rather than shipping in prepackaged food aid to various humanitarian situations, WCK partners with local communities and restaurants to provide culturally relevant, cost-effective meals.
This model, while seemingly obvious, is not the norm in the humanitarian sector. Andrés believes that the tendency to overcomplicate solutions often prevents effective action. "Sometimes big problems, they have very simple solutions, but [it] seems humans, we’re very good at overcomplicating the problems," he said. 

"We don't respond [in] every place in the same way," he explained, citing examples of serving fresh fish in Gaza to avoid it going to waste, and bringing in food from European countries to support Ukraine's collapsed distribution systems despite the quantity of grain available.

Andrés emphasized the importance of adapting to local conditions and empowering communities to be part of the solution. “The most important, is having boots on the ground,” he said. For Andrés, there is “nobody better than the local community to help you respond.”

The risks faced by humanitarian workers are a sobering reality for Andrés, who has lost employees in Gaza and Ukraine. He expressed a deep sense of responsibility, noting that “if we were not there, this wouldn't be happening.” However, he believes that the potential to save lives outweighs the dangers, stating, “If not, those people on their own will be alone, forgotten and anyway, dying.”

Andrés sees both the promise and peril of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. While AI has the potential to revolutionize food production, distribution, and waste reduction, he also cautions against its misuse, calling for robust regulations and safeguards to prevent AI from being weaponized against civilians or humanitarian workers.

Looking ahead, Andrés shares his skepticism about the world's ability to achieve the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals within the limited time frame to 2030, citing a lack of accountability and the disillusionment of young people with leadership. He emphasized the need for more support for youth to become agents of change and for real, tangible progress to be made, not just empty promises.

“Doing good and promising good is not good enough. We must do a smart good,” he said.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62125697Fri, 27 Sep 2024 08:38:00 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn a special edition of the This Week in Global Development podcast recorded on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, chef and entrepreneur José Andrés spoke with Devex’s Kate Warren to discuss his humanitarian work with World...
For Andrés, having a set system for food aid doesn’t work. This explains WCK's unique approach. Rather than shipping in prepackaged food aid to various humanitarian situations, WCK partners with local communities and restaurants to provide culturally relevant, cost-effective meals.
This model, while seemingly obvious, is not the norm in the humanitarian sector. Andrés believes that the tendency to overcomplicate solutions often prevents effective action. "Sometimes big problems, they have very simple solutions, but [it] seems humans, we’re very good at overcomplicating the problems," he said. 

"We don't respond [in] every place in the same way," he explained, citing examples of serving fresh fish in Gaza to avoid it going to waste, and bringing in food from European countries to support Ukraine's collapsed distribution systems despite the quantity of grain available.

Andrés emphasized the importance of adapting to local conditions and empowering communities to be part of the solution. “The most important, is having boots on the ground,” he said. For Andrés, there is “nobody better than the local community to help you respond.”

The risks faced by humanitarian workers are a sobering reality for Andrés, who has lost employees in Gaza and Ukraine. He expressed a deep sense of responsibility, noting that “if we were not there, this wouldn't be happening.” However, he believes that the potential to save lives outweighs the dangers, stating, “If not, those people on their own will be alone, forgotten and anyway, dying.”

Andrés sees both the promise and peril of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. While AI has the potential to revolutionize food production, distribution, and waste reduction, he also cautions against its misuse, calling for robust regulations and safeguards to prevent AI from being weaponized against civilians or humanitarian workers.

Looking ahead, Andrés shares his skepticism about the world's ability to achieve the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals within the limited time frame to 2030, citing a lack of accountability and the disillusionment of young people with leadership. He emphasized the need for more support for youth to become agents of change and for real, tangible progress to be made, not just empty promises.

“Doing good and promising good is not good enough. We must do a smart good,” he said.
]]>1384development,food,ungafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-s-happened-so-far-at-the-79th-united-nations-general-assembly--62125381This week Devex is in New York covering the 79th United Nations General Assembly as well as the Summit of the Future. In addition to hosting our very own summit on the sidelines of these events, we are also closely following the conversations happening at the U.N. and around the rest of Manhattan that are most important to the global development community. 

From reforming the international financial architecture to addressing geopolitical issues — we explore whether the discussions taking place will lead to meaningful change and help achieve the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. 

What does the Pact for the Future mean for the world? And is the legitimacy of the U.N. on the line?

For the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar discusses with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch the most important updates from the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
 
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62125381Fri, 27 Sep 2024 07:59:51 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week Devex is in New York covering the https://www.devex.com/focus/unga as well as the Summit of the Future. In addition to hosting our very own summit on the sidelines of these events, we are also closely following the conversations happening at...This week Devex is in New York covering the 79th United Nations General Assembly as well as the Summit of the Future. In addition to hosting our very own summit on the sidelines of these events, we are also closely following the conversations happening at the U.N. and around the rest of Manhattan that are most important to the global development community. 

From reforming the international financial architecture to addressing geopolitical issues — we explore whether the discussions taking place will lead to meaningful change and help achieve the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. 

What does the Pact for the Future mean for the world? And is the legitimacy of the U.N. on the line?

For the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar discusses with Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch the most important updates from the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
 
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2016development,podcastfalse66fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-unga-79-what-it-would-take-to-move-the-needle-on-locally-led-development--62115965It’s no secret that promises to deliver more humanitarian and development funding to local and national organizations have not been fulfilled. 

During the high-level week of the 79th U.N. General Assembly, Devex caught up with Degan Ali, who heads the Kenya-based NGO Adeso. Ali is a leading voice in the aid decolonization movement, which seeks to decenter the voices of Western decision-makers and shift more power to local leaders in the global south. 

Ali discussed the lack of trust and credibility given to local NGOs compared to international organizations, challenges in meeting the 2016 “Grand Bargain” target of 25% funding to local organizations, and how bureaucracy and risk aversion in organizations like the U.S. Agency for International Development is hindering localization efforts.  

And while she gave USAID Administrator Samantha Power credit for elevating the localization agenda, Ali called the effort to get bilateral organizations to shift to locally led development an “impossible, impossible uphill battle.” 

“But where I do feel like there's hope and there's opportunity, is for the [international] NGOs to change and philanthropy to change, and those are the spaces where we need to put a lot of pressure,” she said. “And that's what we're trying to do at Adeso with the Pledge for Change with the INGOs, and the decolonizing philanthropy work that we're doing.” 

Devex Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene sat down with Ali for a special episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62115965Thu, 26 Sep 2024 13:42:46 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIt’s no secret that promises to deliver more humanitarian and development funding to local and national organizations have not been fulfilled.  During the high-level week of the https://www.devex.com/focus/unga, Devex caught up with Degan Ali, who...It’s no secret that promises to deliver more humanitarian and development funding to local and national organizations have not been fulfilled. 

During the high-level week of the 79th U.N. General Assembly, Devex caught up with Degan Ali, who heads the Kenya-based NGO Adeso. Ali is a leading voice in the aid decolonization movement, which seeks to decenter the voices of Western decision-makers and shift more power to local leaders in the global south. 

Ali discussed the lack of trust and credibility given to local NGOs compared to international organizations, challenges in meeting the 2016 “Grand Bargain” target of 25% funding to local organizations, and how bureaucracy and risk aversion in organizations like the U.S. Agency for International Development is hindering localization efforts.  

And while she gave USAID Administrator Samantha Power credit for elevating the localization agenda, Ali called the effort to get bilateral organizations to shift to locally led development an “impossible, impossible uphill battle.” 

“But where I do feel like there's hope and there's opportunity, is for the [international] NGOs to change and philanthropy to change, and those are the spaces where we need to put a lot of pressure,” she said. “And that's what we're trying to do at Adeso with the Pledge for Change with the INGOs, and the decolonizing philanthropy work that we're doing.” 

Devex Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene sat down with Ali for a special episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series.]]>1588development,localization,ungafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-unga-79-how-a-quantum-leap-is-needed-to-bring-energy-to-300-million-africans--62093391Among the major development initiatives under discussion at the United Nations this week in New York is an ambitious goal set out by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, which aims to get electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.

During the high-level week of the U.N. General Assembly, Devex caught up with Andrew Herscowitz, CEO of the M300 Accelerator, which aims to make these ambitions into reality.
M300 is based at the Rockefeller Foundation and supported by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet, or GEAPP, and Sustainable Energy for All, two international organizations focused on bringing clean energy to everyone.

Herscowitz is the former head of Power Africa, a previous energy initiative that, in its first decade, helped deliver new or improved electricity to nearly 200 million people in Africa. But he said the latest project was even more ambitious. In fact, he said, it was “probably the biggest thing that's happening in international development right now.”

It needs “quantum leaps in a couple of different areas” for the accelerator to succeed in its goals, he said. But he told Devex that he was confident that he and his allies had the resources to make those leaps happen.

Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Herscowitz to discuss more about M330 for a special episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62093391Tue, 24 Sep 2024 16:39:22 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAmong the major development initiatives under discussion at the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-un-41567 this week in New York is an ambitious goal set out by the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 and the...Among the major development initiatives under discussion at the United Nations this week in New York is an ambitious goal set out by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, which aims to get electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.

During the high-level week of the U.N. General Assembly, Devex caught up with Andrew Herscowitz, CEO of the M300 Accelerator, which aims to make these ambitions into reality.
M300 is based at the Rockefeller Foundation and supported by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet, or GEAPP, and Sustainable Energy for All, two international organizations focused on bringing clean energy to everyone.

Herscowitz is the former head of Power Africa, a previous energy initiative that, in its first decade, helped deliver new or improved electricity to nearly 200 million people in Africa. But he said the latest project was even more ambitious. In fact, he said, it was “probably the biggest thing that's happening in international development right now.”

It needs “quantum leaps in a couple of different areas” for the accelerator to succeed in its goals, he said. But he told Devex that he was confident that he and his allies had the resources to make those leaps happen.

Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Herscowitz to discuss more about M330 for a special episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2172development,ungafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-can-we-expect-from-unga-79-and-the-summit-of-the-future--62030049As world leaders get ready to meet in New York for the 79th United Nations General Assembly, we explore what we can expect from the event and whether big ideas can translate into meaningful action. The U.N.’s Summit of the Future is also set to take place early next week. With so many questions surrounding the conference, we contemplate whether the world is ready to solve the problems of tomorrow if we can’t solve the problems of today. 

Meanwhile, from filling the gap regarding inadequate levels of local manufacturing to overcoming overuse and misuse, we dive into a report that outlines the African continent’s priority list for tackling antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, ahead of this month's high-level meeting on the issue at UNGA 79. 

On the topic of global health, we also take a look at the challenge of vaccinating Gaza’s children against polio amid the conflict in the region. 

To explore these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with reporters Colum Lynch and Sara Jerving for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62030049Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:49:28 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs world leaders get ready to meet in New York for the https://www.devex.com/focus/unga, we explore what we can expect from the event and whether big ideas can translate into meaningful action. The U.N.’s Summit of the Future is also set to take place...As world leaders get ready to meet in New York for the 79th United Nations General Assembly, we explore what we can expect from the event and whether big ideas can translate into meaningful action. The U.N.’s Summit of the Future is also set to take place early next week. With so many questions surrounding the conference, we contemplate whether the world is ready to solve the problems of tomorrow if we can’t solve the problems of today. 

Meanwhile, from filling the gap regarding inadequate levels of local manufacturing to overcoming overuse and misuse, we dive into a report that outlines the African continent’s priority list for tackling antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, ahead of this month's high-level meeting on the issue at UNGA 79. 

On the topic of global health, we also take a look at the challenge of vaccinating Gaza’s children against polio amid the conflict in the region. 

To explore these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with reporters Colum Lynch and Sara Jerving for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2254development,gaza,health,polio,ungafalse65fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/aid-cuts-across-europe-and-china-s-big-investment-pledge-in-africa--61418509After severe cuts to its 2024 budgets for development and humanitarian aid, we found that the German government is planning to slash funds again in 2025. A recently released draft budget spells out nearly €1 billion in cuts to the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, or BMZ, from €11.22 billion ($12.36 billion) this year to €10.28 billion in 2025.

Germany is not the only European country planning to reduce its aid budget. In the United Kingdom, the aid budget in 2024 is forecast to be only 0.36% of gross national income — once sums diverted to hosting asylum-seekers are removed — piling pressure on the new Labour government to rethink its plans. The fresh spending squeeze comes despite the new Labour government promising a “reset” of development policy it condemned as “degraded” under the Conservatives.

We also discuss the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation that took place in Beijing. It was attended by 50 African heads of state and China pledged to invest nearly $51 billion in the continent on more favorable terms than Western countries.

In order to dive into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with David Ainsworth and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61418509Fri, 13 Sep 2024 08:47:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAfter severe cuts to its 2024 budgets for development and humanitarian aid, we found that https://www.devex.com/news/germany-plans-billions-in-cuts-to-development-humanitarian-aid-108259. A recently released draft budget spells out nearly €1 billion...After severe cuts to its 2024 budgets for development and humanitarian aid, we found that the German government is planning to slash funds again in 2025. A recently released draft budget spells out nearly €1 billion in cuts to the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, or BMZ, from €11.22 billion ($12.36 billion) this year to €10.28 billion in 2025.

Germany is not the only European country planning to reduce its aid budget. In the United Kingdom, the aid budget in 2024 is forecast to be only 0.36% of gross national income — once sums diverted to hosting asylum-seekers are removed — piling pressure on the new Labour government to rethink its plans. The fresh spending squeeze comes despite the new Labour government promising a “reset” of development policy it condemned as “degraded” under the Conservatives.

We also discuss the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation that took place in Beijing. It was attended by 50 African heads of state and China pledged to invest nearly $51 billion in the continent on more favorable terms than Western countries.

In order to dive into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with David Ainsworth and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2191africa,china,development,europe,germany,uk,usaidfalse64fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-mcc-and-burnout-in-global-development--61280901As the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation marks its 20th anniversary, we discuss our latest article on the agency. While MCC has invested $17 billion in 47 countries since its founding, we contemplate whether the agency has lived up to its founders’ lofty aims of holding countries accountable for good governance and rooting out corruption.

Meanwhile, one of the biggest threats to aid workers isn't just war or disaster — it's workplace stress. From oppressive workloads to toxic cultures, we explore how humanitarian organizations are unintentionally burning out their own staff members and whether the sector has a staff retention problem. 

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to discuss these stories and others. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61280901Fri, 06 Sep 2024 07:46:39 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs the https://www.devex.com/organizations/millennium-challenge-corporation-mcc-united-states-44601 marks its 20th anniversary, we discuss our https://www.devex.com/news/20-years-of-mcc-how-big-dreams-faced-tough-realities-108162. While MCC has...As the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation marks its 20th anniversary, we discuss our latest article on the agency. While MCC has invested $17 billion in 47 countries since its founding, we contemplate whether the agency has lived up to its founders’ lofty aims of holding countries accountable for good governance and rooting out corruption.

Meanwhile, one of the biggest threats to aid workers isn't just war or disaster — it's workplace stress. From oppressive workloads to toxic cultures, we explore how humanitarian organizations are unintentionally burning out their own staff members and whether the sector has a staff retention problem. 

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to discuss these stories and others. ]]>2029burnout,development,mccfalse63fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-uneven-localization-landscape-and-an-investigation-at-usaid--61207686This week we take an in-depth look at USAID’s localization report. While in certain countries the agency has already significantly surpassed its localization target, in others it is struggling to get close to it. We discuss why that might be and contemplate how USAID can get closer to channeling 25% of its eligible dollars to local levels by 2025.

On the topic of USAID, we also dive into the findings of an investigation by the USAID Office of Inspector General that show the agency did not consistently use the proper mechanisms to oversee awards to the United Nations, the World Bank, and other multilateral agencies.

We also explore how Humanity United is working to refine its approach to participatory grantmaking by aiming to provide money in a way that is more aligned with the priorities of grassroots organizations.

To discuss these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with David Ainsworth and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61207686Fri, 30 Aug 2024 08:34:35 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we take an https://www.devex.com/news/why-is-localization-surging-in-some-countries-and-stalling-in-others-108111. While in certain countries the agency has already significantly surpassed its localization target, in others it is struggling...This week we take an in-depth look at USAID’s localization report. While in certain countries the agency has already significantly surpassed its localization target, in others it is struggling to get close to it. We discuss why that might be and contemplate how USAID can get closer to channeling 25% of its eligible dollars to local levels by 2025.

On the topic of USAID, we also dive into the findings of an investigation by the USAID Office of Inspector General that show the agency did not consistently use the proper mechanisms to oversee awards to the United Nations, the World Bank, and other multilateral agencies.

We also explore how Humanity United is working to refine its approach to participatory grantmaking by aiming to provide money in a way that is more aligned with the priorities of grassroots organizations.

To discuss these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with David Ainsworth and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2666development,localization,usaidfalse62fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-s-happening-at-the-dnc-and-women-s-leadership-in-development--61123451This week we are at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. We delve into what we are hearing on the sidelines of the event, particularly how U.S. vice president and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris would approach foreign policy and assistance. 

In this week’s episode we also discussed our exit interview with outgoing British International Investment chief Nick O'Donohoe, who highlighted that his successor will have to find the balance between focusing on the lowest-income countries, as well as positioning BII as a climate finance leader.

From the challenges of parenthood to entrenched traditional systems, we also elaborate on an article that digs into the challenges women face as they climb the global development career ladder.

How would a Harris presidency be different from a Biden one? How can we elevate women leadership in global development? 

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to dig into this week’s headlines in global development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61123451Fri, 23 Aug 2024 08:06:27 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we are at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. We delve into what we are hearing on the sidelines of the event, particularly how U.S. vice president and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris would approach foreign policy...This week we are at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. We delve into what we are hearing on the sidelines of the event, particularly how U.S. vice president and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris would approach foreign policy and assistance. 

In this week’s episode we also discussed our exit interview with outgoing British International Investment chief Nick O'Donohoe, who highlighted that his successor will have to find the balance between focusing on the lowest-income countries, as well as positioning BII as a climate finance leader.

From the challenges of parenthood to entrenched traditional systems, we also elaborate on an article that digs into the challenges women face as they climb the global development career ladder.

How would a Harris presidency be different from a Biden one? How can we elevate women leadership in global development? 

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to dig into this week’s headlines in global development.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2101development,dnc,leadership,womenfalse61fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-putting-the-human-back-in-humanitarianism--61077768
Founded in 2015 to commemorate the Armenian Genocide, the Aurora Prize awards $1 million annually to an individual whose actions have made a significant impact in preserving human life in the face of adversity.

In this special episode sponsored by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, Raj Kumar is joined by Aurora co-founder Noubar Afeyan, Memory Matters' Alice Greenwald, and Yazidi activist and Aurora laureate Mirza Dinnayi.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61077768Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:47:42 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn a world of growing humanitarian needs, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is shining a light on those who risk their own lives to save others. Founded in 2015 to commemorate the Armenian Genocide, the Aurora Prize awards $1 million annually to an...
Founded in 2015 to commemorate the Armenian Genocide, the Aurora Prize awards $1 million annually to an individual whose actions have made a significant impact in preserving human life in the face of adversity.

In this special episode sponsored by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, Raj Kumar is joined by Aurora co-founder Noubar Afeyan, Memory Matters' Alice Greenwald, and Yazidi activist and Aurora laureate Mirza Dinnayi.]]>2283falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/public-health-emergency-in-africa-and-staffing-crises-at-ngos--61049789This week the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization both declared mpox as a public health emergency. This is the first time the Africa CDC declared a public health emergency as it aims to increase its autonomy. There have been more than 17,000 suspected cases across the African continent, more than the total number of cases reported in 2023.

In the United Kingdom, the International Rescue Committee is set to shed 1 in 9 staff as it faces a funding crisis. We explore the wider issue of reduced funding in global development despite rising humanitarian needs. 

To discuss these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of the podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61049789Fri, 16 Aug 2024 07:58:41 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week the https://www.devex.com/organizations/centres-for-disease-control-and-prevention-africa-cdc-120577 and the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-health-organization-who-30562 both...This week the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization both declared mpox as a public health emergency. This is the first time the Africa CDC declared a public health emergency as it aims to increase its autonomy. There have been more than 17,000 suspected cases across the African continent, more than the total number of cases reported in 2023.

In the United Kingdom, the International Rescue Committee is set to shed 1 in 9 staff as it faces a funding crisis. We explore the wider issue of reduced funding in global development despite rising humanitarian needs. 

To discuss these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of the podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. 
]]>1953africa,development,health,mpox,ukfalse60fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kamala-harris-approach-to-foreign-policy-and-challenges-to-localization--60895476After U.S. President Joe Biden opted not to run for reelection, his vice president, Kamala Harris, seems poised to become the official nominee of the Democratic Party. We explore how she would approach U.S. foreign policy, as well as provide an update on Project 2025. 

We also discuss our exclusive story in which we reported that the Biden administration is to resume food aid delivery in Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, even as it exchanges fire with the Iranian-backed rebel movement. 

As USAID continues to make progress on its localization agenda, we dig into what the biggest barriers, opportunities, and avenues are to make meaningful progress and help support local communities. Even though localization is a hot topic in global development, it appears as though some countries continue to mostly fund their own NGOs due to inflexible rules and regulations.

To dig into these stories, Adva Saldinger sits down with Devex reporters Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60895476Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:12:55 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAfter U.S. President Joe Biden opted not to run for reelection, his vice president, Kamala Harris, seems poised to become the official nominee of the Democratic Party. We explore how she would approach U.S. foreign policy, as well as provide an update...After U.S. President Joe Biden opted not to run for reelection, his vice president, Kamala Harris, seems poised to become the official nominee of the Democratic Party. We explore how she would approach U.S. foreign policy, as well as provide an update on Project 2025. 

We also discuss our exclusive story in which we reported that the Biden administration is to resume food aid delivery in Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, even as it exchanges fire with the Iranian-backed rebel movement. 

As USAID continues to make progress on its localization agenda, we dig into what the biggest barriers, opportunities, and avenues are to make meaningful progress and help support local communities. Even though localization is a hot topic in global development, it appears as though some countries continue to mostly fund their own NGOs due to inflexible rules and regulations.

To dig into these stories, Adva Saldinger sits down with Devex reporters Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2103biden,elections,localization,usaid,yemenfalse59fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-role-of-ingos-in-localization-and-the-future-of-pepfar--60811516As localization continues to be a hot topic in global development, nearly every international nongovernmental organization seems to be rethinking their role in the aid sector, and debating how, when, and if they should continue showing up. We discuss how INGOs are aiming to rebalance the equation between INGOs and local groups, and whether the reforms will help empower and give voice to local communities. 

This week we also published an interview with PEPFAR chief John Nkengasong, who warned that if the world fails to eliminate HIV as a public health threat by 2030, political leaders will lose interest in fighting the disease paving the way for its resurgence.

Are INGOs working themselves out of a job? What is the future of PEPFAR, the U.S. global AIDS initiative?

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60811516Fri, 26 Jul 2024 07:40:34 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs localization continues to be a hot topic in global development, nearly every international nongovernmental organization seems to be rethinking their role in the aid sector, and debating how, when, and if they should continue showing up. We discuss...As localization continues to be a hot topic in global development, nearly every international nongovernmental organization seems to be rethinking their role in the aid sector, and debating how, when, and if they should continue showing up. We discuss how INGOs are aiming to rebalance the equation between INGOs and local groups, and whether the reforms will help empower and give voice to local communities. 

This week we also published an interview with PEPFAR chief John Nkengasong, who warned that if the world fails to eliminate HIV as a public health threat by 2030, political leaders will lose interest in fighting the disease paving the way for its resurgence.

Are INGOs working themselves out of a job? What is the future of PEPFAR, the U.S. global AIDS initiative?

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Business Editor David Ainsworth and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2158aids,ingo,localization,pepfarfalse58fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/humanitarian-cowboys-untied-aid-and-the-future-of-dutch-aid--60730712wrote a piece analyzing what’s become of this common aid worker stereotype — often a charismatic, risk-taking white male who moves from one disaster or conflict zone to the next — and whether, in the era of localization, there’s still room for them in the humanitarian space.
 
As part of Devex Pro week — a week of in-depth analyses and conversations for our Pro members — Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth is looking into the concept of “tied aid,” and the extent to which countries still principally fund their own NGOs. While some countries, like the United Kingdom, have made tied aid illegal, in many cases there are rules and regulations that continue to make it prohibitively difficult for global south organizations to access funding directly.

The Netherlands has a new far-right minister for foreign trade and development cooperation, Reinette Klever, who is charged with overseeing aid cuts worth billions of euros in the next few years. Many worry this is part of a growing trend among global north countries as right-wing parties and rhetoric make their way into mainstream politics.

Tune into the latest episode of our weekly podcast to hear David Ainsworth along with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Nasra Ismail, U.S enterprise executive director at Alight, discuss these stories and more.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60730712Fri, 19 Jul 2024 08:38:55 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIs the era of the “humanitarian cowboy” over? This week, Devex contributor Lauren Evans https://www.devex.com/news/hold-your-horses-are-humanitarian-cowboys-a-relic-of-the-past-107957 analyzing what’s become of this common aid worker...wrote a piece analyzing what’s become of this common aid worker stereotype — often a charismatic, risk-taking white male who moves from one disaster or conflict zone to the next — and whether, in the era of localization, there’s still room for them in the humanitarian space.
 
As part of Devex Pro week — a week of in-depth analyses and conversations for our Pro members — Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth is looking into the concept of “tied aid,” and the extent to which countries still principally fund their own NGOs. While some countries, like the United Kingdom, have made tied aid illegal, in many cases there are rules and regulations that continue to make it prohibitively difficult for global south organizations to access funding directly.

The Netherlands has a new far-right minister for foreign trade and development cooperation, Reinette Klever, who is charged with overseeing aid cuts worth billions of euros in the next few years. Many worry this is part of a growing trend among global north countries as right-wing parties and rhetoric make their way into mainstream politics.

Tune into the latest episode of our weekly podcast to hear David Ainsworth along with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Nasra Ismail, U.S enterprise executive director at Alight, discuss these stories and more.]]>2193false57fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trump-s-approach-to-foreign-aid-and-the-uk-s-new-development-minister--60667237The Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives has proposed drastic cuts to foreign aid and United Nations funding in a 2025 budget bill that it passed last week, including ending funding to Ukraine. While the bill is unlikely to make it through the Democratic-led Senate, the House bill is something of a blueprint for the months ahead and how a new Donald Trump administration would approach foreign policy. 

On the topic of Republicans, we reported that Trump is distancing himself from the conservative Heritage Foundation's Project 2025. He has proposed a new platform — titled “America First: A Return to Common Sense” — that was approved during a vote of the Republican National Committee on Monday. While there was no mention of foreign aid, we ponder what his leadership would mean for it. 

Across the pond, Anneliese Dodds was appointed as the United Kingdom’s minister of state for development, as well as minister of state for women and equalities, following Labour’s victory in the United Kingdom general election. Her appointment raises a lot of questions about the future of U.K. aid as confusion remains over her job share.

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to discuss these stories, and others, from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60667237Thu, 11 Jul 2024 20:36:37 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives has proposed https://www.devex.com/news/billions-slashed-in-house-s-meat-cleaver-approach-to-foreign-affairs-107903 and https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-un-41567 funding in a 2025...The Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives has proposed drastic cuts to foreign aid and United Nations funding in a 2025 budget bill that it passed last week, including ending funding to Ukraine. While the bill is unlikely to make it through the Democratic-led Senate, the House bill is something of a blueprint for the months ahead and how a new Donald Trump administration would approach foreign policy. 

On the topic of Republicans, we reported that Trump is distancing himself from the conservative Heritage Foundation's Project 2025. He has proposed a new platform — titled “America First: A Return to Common Sense” — that was approved during a vote of the Republican National Committee on Monday. While there was no mention of foreign aid, we ponder what his leadership would mean for it. 

Across the pond, Anneliese Dodds was appointed as the United Kingdom’s minister of state for development, as well as minister of state for women and equalities, following Labour’s victory in the United Kingdom general election. Her appointment raises a lot of questions about the future of U.K. aid as confusion remains over her job share.

For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Development Reporter Elissa Miolene to discuss these stories, and others, from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2036development,elections,trump,uk,usafalse56fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-do-the-elections-across-europe-mean-for-global-development--60607078This week British voters head to the polls to elect the country’s new prime minister, with the Labour Party set to end 14 years of Conservative rule. While Keir Starmer’s government is not planning to immediately restore development spending to 0.7% of gross national income, nor reestablish The Department for International Development, we discuss whether a change in leadership will affect the country’s aid and migration policy.

The United Kingdom is not the only country cutting its aid budget. During the European elections we saw citizens across the continent elect right-wing leaders, who are opting to prioritize European interests. We also take a look at what we expect from the European Commission's development policy, which is set to emphasize an increased focus on lending and private capital mobilization.

For the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, Devex’s Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with U.K. Correspondent Rob Merrick to discuss what elections across Europe mean for the global development sector. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60607078Fri, 05 Jul 2024 07:43:30 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week British voters head to the polls to elect the country’s new prime minister, with the Labour Party set to end 14 years of Conservative rule. While Keir Starmer’s government...This week British voters head to the polls to elect the country’s new prime minister, with the Labour Party set to end 14 years of Conservative rule. While Keir Starmer’s government is not planning to immediately restore development spending to 0.7% of gross national income, nor reestablish The Department for International Development, we discuss whether a change in leadership will affect the country’s aid and migration policy.

The United Kingdom is not the only country cutting its aid budget. During the European elections we saw citizens across the continent elect right-wing leaders, who are opting to prioritize European interests. We also take a look at what we expect from the European Commission's development policy, which is set to emphasize an increased focus on lending and private capital mobilization.

For the latest episode of our weekly podcast series, Devex’s Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with U.K. Correspondent Rob Merrick to discuss what elections across Europe mean for the global development sector. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1355development,elections,europe,france,ukfalse55fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-who-foundation-s-work-and-gavi-s-new-replenishment-target--60532680This week we look back at an article we wrote earlier this month on the WHO Foundation, which has funneled $24 million to the World Health Organization since its launch in 2020. We examine the foundation’s strategy, including its plans to ensure that donor funding to WHO is seamless and aligned with its priorities. 

Also on the topic of global health, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance launched its $9 billion replenishment target. We examine the key takeaways from the organization’s next five-year strategy and highlight the pledges made so far.

We also reflected on the main talking points from last week’s Forecasting Healthy Futures summit, which took place in Baku, Azerbaijan. With the city also set to host the United Nations Climate Conference, COP 29, later this year, the event was an opportunity to bring global health to the forefront of discussions around climate change.

For the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast,, Devex President & Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, and Senior Reporter Sara Jerving, to dig into these stories and others. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60532680Thu, 27 Jun 2024 22:12:24 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we look back at an article we wrote earlier this month on the https://www.devex.com/organizations/who-foundation-164054, which has https://www.devex.com/news/the-foundation-bringing-in-private-sector-finance-to-who-107580 to the...This week we look back at an article we wrote earlier this month on the WHO Foundation, which has funneled $24 million to the World Health Organization since its launch in 2020. We examine the foundation’s strategy, including its plans to ensure that donor funding to WHO is seamless and aligned with its priorities. 

Also on the topic of global health, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance launched its $9 billion replenishment target. We examine the key takeaways from the organization’s next five-year strategy and highlight the pledges made so far.

We also reflected on the main talking points from last week’s Forecasting Healthy Futures summit, which took place in Baku, Azerbaijan. With the city also set to host the United Nations Climate Conference, COP 29, later this year, the event was an opportunity to bring global health to the forefront of discussions around climate change.

For the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast,, Devex President & Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, and Senior Reporter Sara Jerving, to dig into these stories and others. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2111gavi,health,whofalse54fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-a-trump-presidency-would-mean-for-u-s-foreign-aid--60454573This week we take a look at Republicans’ approach to foreign policy if Donald Trump were to win in the upcoming U.S. presidential elections in November. From implementing cuts to changing the United States’ foreign aid priorities, we dig into what a second Trump presidency would mean for the global development sector. 

We also reported on new data from USAID which shows that just 9.6% of the agency’s eligible dollars were channeled toward local groups last year — rather than major international development contractors — down from 10.2% the year prior. With one year left before USAID’s ambitious 2025 deadline to channel 25% of its funding to local organizations, it seems very unlikely that the agency will hit its goal. 

On the topic of USAID, we also discuss an opinion piece by the agency’s chief, Samantha Power, in which she outlines how USAID is planning to meet its localization targets.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of the podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60454573Thu, 20 Jun 2024 20:47:39 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we take a look at https://www.devex.com/news/the-republican-plan-to-rightsize-us-foreign-aid-in-a-trump-presidency-107403 in the upcoming U.S. presidential elections in November. From implementing cuts to changing the United States’ foreign...This week we take a look at Republicans’ approach to foreign policy if Donald Trump were to win in the upcoming U.S. presidential elections in November. From implementing cuts to changing the United States’ foreign aid priorities, we dig into what a second Trump presidency would mean for the global development sector. 

We also reported on new data from USAID which shows that just 9.6% of the agency’s eligible dollars were channeled toward local groups last year — rather than major international development contractors — down from 10.2% the year prior. With one year left before USAID’s ambitious 2025 deadline to channel 25% of its funding to local organizations, it seems very unlikely that the agency will hit its goal. 

On the topic of USAID, we also discuss an opinion piece by the agency’s chief, Samantha Power, in which she outlines how USAID is planning to meet its localization targets.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Reporter Elissa Miolene for the latest episode of the podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2106elections,localization,usa,usaidfalse53fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-the-humanitarian-crisis-in-haiti-and-addressing-malnutrition--60382192This week we take a look at the humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where 578,000 have been displaced, mostly due to violence. We explore what is being done to address the hardships faced by the affected population, including bringing essential food supplies, as well as discuss what life is like on the ground. 

On the topic of food insecurity, we also dig into a UNICEF report, which found that 181 million children under age 5 worldwide are experiencing severe food poverty — which can have lifelong consequences for their health and development. We stress the importance of having programs that prioritize the providing of a balanced diet to malnourished children.

On a more positive note, we also report on how CRISPR gene-editing technology could change the way we eat by making crops tastier, more nutritious, and more resilient to climate change. Nonetheless, questions remain on the extent to which the technology will be available to farmers who need them the most. 

For the latest edition of the podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Jean-Martin Bauer, country director of the World Food Programme in Haiti, and Devex Global Reporter Elissa Miolene to discuss these stories and others. 

Sign up to Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60382192Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:49:05 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we take a look at the humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where 578,000 have been displaced, mostly due to violence. We explore what is being done to address the hardships faced by the affected population, including bringing essential food...This week we take a look at the humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where 578,000 have been displaced, mostly due to violence. We explore what is being done to address the hardships faced by the affected population, including bringing essential food supplies, as well as discuss what life is like on the ground. 

On the topic of food insecurity, we also dig into a UNICEF report, which found that 181 million children under age 5 worldwide are experiencing severe food poverty — which can have lifelong consequences for their health and development. We stress the importance of having programs that prioritize the providing of a balanced diet to malnourished children.

On a more positive note, we also report on how CRISPR gene-editing technology could change the way we eat by making crops tastier, more nutritious, and more resilient to climate change. Nonetheless, questions remain on the extent to which the technology will be available to farmers who need them the most. 

For the latest edition of the podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Jean-Martin Bauer, country director of the World Food Programme in Haiti, and Devex Global Reporter Elissa Miolene to discuss these stories and others. 

Sign up to Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2172food,haiti,healthfalse52fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/u-s-lawmakers-spar-over-foreign-aid-and-debt-relief-for-small-island-states--60301975This week we reported on a House foreign affairs subcommittee hearing in which Republicans tried to paint the U.S. government’s entire approach to foreign assistance as wasteful and counterproductive — but they faced pushback from Democrats who argued that human rights grants are critical in the global contest between democracy and autocracy. 

The hearing took place against the backdrop of a proposed House of Representatives budget bill that would impose an 11% cut across U.S. foreign affairs spending, which would be 19% less than what President Joe Biden requested. The proposed funding bill cuts “wasteful spending” and “continues reestablishing American leadership” where the Biden administration has been lacking. 

We also look back at an event that took place in Washington D.C., during which U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan discussed tackling humanitarian crises, adapting to the rise of artificial intelligence, and partnering with other nations to drive development through debt relief and infrastructure "corridors" connecting regions.

Meanwhile, during the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States, or SIDS, concerned countries called for debt relief and more concessional funding to deliver on a 10-year strategy to achieve Sustainable Development Goals and build resilient economies. We highlight how a lack of support could decimate local livelihoods and lead to climate-induced migration.

For the latest episode of the podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Liz Hume, executive director at the Alliance for Peacebuilding, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel, to discuss this week’s top global development stories. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60301975Thu, 06 Jun 2024 17:55:22 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we reported on https://www.devex.com/news/us-lawmakers-spar-over-international-human-rights-funding-transparency-107736 in which Republicans tried to paint the U.S. government’s entire approach to foreign assistance as wasteful and...This week we reported on a House foreign affairs subcommittee hearing in which Republicans tried to paint the U.S. government’s entire approach to foreign assistance as wasteful and counterproductive — but they faced pushback from Democrats who argued that human rights grants are critical in the global contest between democracy and autocracy. 

The hearing took place against the backdrop of a proposed House of Representatives budget bill that would impose an 11% cut across U.S. foreign affairs spending, which would be 19% less than what President Joe Biden requested. The proposed funding bill cuts “wasteful spending” and “continues reestablishing American leadership” where the Biden administration has been lacking. 

We also look back at an event that took place in Washington D.C., during which U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan discussed tackling humanitarian crises, adapting to the rise of artificial intelligence, and partnering with other nations to drive development through debt relief and infrastructure "corridors" connecting regions.

Meanwhile, during the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States, or SIDS, concerned countries called for debt relief and more concessional funding to deliver on a 10-year strategy to achieve Sustainable Development Goals and build resilient economies. We highlight how a lack of support could decimate local livelihoods and lead to climate-induced migration.

For the latest episode of the podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Liz Hume, executive director at the Alliance for Peacebuilding, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel, to discuss this week’s top global development stories. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2054development,usafalse51fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-health-assembly-who-s-progress-in-addressing-sexual-misconduct-cases--60232881In 2020, media reports and an independent investigation revealed one of the largest sexual misconduct scandals in U.N. history, in which more than 50 women accused ebola aid workers — including World Health Organization staffers — of sexual exploitation and abuse during the 10th Ebola outbreak in the Democratic of Congo.  
At last year’s World Health Assembly, WHO’s Dr. Gaya Gamhewage spoke at length about the organization's new policies for addressing sexual misconduct allegations. Gamhewage was appointed to lead a new unit investigating such claims in 2021.
In the final podcast episode from WHA77, Devex Associate Editor Rumbi Chakamba is joined by Dr. Gamhewage to discuss the progress her department is making, the challenges faced, and the lessons other agencies and NGOs can learn from WHO.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60232881Fri, 31 May 2024 09:30:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn 2020, https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/2020/09/29/exclusive-more-50-women-accuse-aid-workers-sex-abuse-congo-ebola-crisis and an independent investigation revealed one of the largest sexual misconduct scandals in U.N. history, in which more than...In 2020, media reports and an independent investigation revealed one of the largest sexual misconduct scandals in U.N. history, in which more than 50 women accused ebola aid workers — including World Health Organization staffers — of sexual exploitation and abuse during the 10th Ebola outbreak in the Democratic of Congo.  
At last year’s World Health Assembly, WHO’s Dr. Gaya Gamhewage spoke at length about the organization's new policies for addressing sexual misconduct allegations. Gamhewage was appointed to lead a new unit investigating such claims in 2021.
In the final podcast episode from WHA77, Devex Associate Editor Rumbi Chakamba is joined by Dr. Gamhewage to discuss the progress her department is making, the challenges faced, and the lessons other agencies and NGOs can learn from WHO.]]>1396falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-update-from-the-77th-world-health-assembly--60227263This week Devex’s editorial team was on the ground in Geneva, Switzerland, closely following the conversations taking place at the 77th World Health Assembly. As well as attending the summit itself, we also hosted Devex CheckUp @ WHA 77, our very own event happening on the sidelines of the main event.

From following the pandemic treaty negotiations to addressing global health issues, we provide an update from the conference that brings together health leaders from around the world. 

We also discuss the World Health Organization’s announcement of a November fundraising event to usher in this finance. This is a new approach for the world’s leading public health agency as it hopes to raise $11.1 billion to fund its work over the next four years. 

To look at the key stories from WHA 77, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Fatema Sumar, executive director of the Center for International Development at Harvard University, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo for the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60227263Thu, 30 May 2024 21:09:40 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week Devex’s editorial team was on the ground in Geneva, Switzerland, closely following the conversations taking place at the 77th World Health Assembly. As well as attending the summit itself, we also hosted...This week Devex’s editorial team was on the ground in Geneva, Switzerland, closely following the conversations taking place at the 77th World Health Assembly. As well as attending the summit itself, we also hosted Devex CheckUp @ WHA 77, our very own event happening on the sidelines of the main event.

From following the pandemic treaty negotiations to addressing global health issues, we provide an update from the conference that brings together health leaders from around the world. 

We also discuss the World Health Organization’s announcement of a November fundraising event to usher in this finance. This is a new approach for the world’s leading public health agency as it hopes to raise $11.1 billion to fund its work over the next four years. 

To look at the key stories from WHA 77, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Fatema Sumar, executive director of the Center for International Development at Harvard University, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo for the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1703health,pandemic,wha,whofalse50fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-health-assembly-strengthening-africa-s-health-security--60200210During the COVID-19 pandemic, the health of populations across Africa were put at risk because of dysfunctional global health systems. For example, African nations were at the back of the queue for medical countermeasures, including vaccines. In the wake of the pandemic, leaders across the continent have worked to build stronger health systems — but there are still barriers at the international level standing in the way. 

At this week’s World Health Assembly in Geneva, health leaders from across the continent are calling for changes to global health systems. These include more equitable access to health innovations and financing that aligns with country priorities. “Those who can do more should agree to give in order for us to meet each other at a level where everyone will feel safe,” said Dr. Magda Robalo, President and co-founder of The Institute for Global Health and Development.

In this podcast episode, Devex global health reporter Sara Jerving speaks with Dr. Robalo and Dr. Githinji Gitahi, chief executive officer of Amref Health Africa, about changes needed at the international level.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60200210Tue, 28 May 2024 17:04:02 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, the health of populations across Africa were put at risk because of dysfunctional global health systems. For example, African nations were at the back of the queue for medical countermeasures, including vaccines. In the...During the COVID-19 pandemic, the health of populations across Africa were put at risk because of dysfunctional global health systems. For example, African nations were at the back of the queue for medical countermeasures, including vaccines. In the wake of the pandemic, leaders across the continent have worked to build stronger health systems — but there are still barriers at the international level standing in the way. 

At this week’s World Health Assembly in Geneva, health leaders from across the continent are calling for changes to global health systems. These include more equitable access to health innovations and financing that aligns with country priorities. “Those who can do more should agree to give in order for us to meet each other at a level where everyone will feel safe,” said Dr. Magda Robalo, President and co-founder of The Institute for Global Health and Development.

In this podcast episode, Devex global health reporter Sara Jerving speaks with Dr. Robalo and Dr. Githinji Gitahi, chief executive officer of Amref Health Africa, about changes needed at the international level.]]>983falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-health-assembly-can-the-pandemic-treaty-deliver-on-equity--60163082without reaching a consensus, as countries remained divided on numerous provisions, including technology transfer and equitable access to medical products. This week, health officials at the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, will need to determine the next steps.

Before Friday’s decision, Devex Senior Reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo spoke with K.M. Gopakumar, legal adviser for the Third World Network, an independent international nonprofit network that advocates for the needs of people from the global south, about the contentious issues in the negotiations and how opposition to the pandemic treaty in some countries impacted the process.

For front-line and behind-the-scenes reporting on global health, sign up to the Devex CheckUp newsletter: https://www.devex.com/newsletters/devex-checkup]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60163082Mon, 27 May 2024 12:49:28 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentA two-year negotiation process for a pandemic treaty concluded on Friday https://www.devex.com/news/5-issues-to-watch-at-the-77th-world-health-assembly-107665, as countries remained divided on numerous provisions, including technology transfer and...without reaching a consensus, as countries remained divided on numerous provisions, including technology transfer and equitable access to medical products. This week, health officials at the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, will need to determine the next steps.

Before Friday’s decision, Devex Senior Reporter Jenny Lei Ravelo spoke with K.M. Gopakumar, legal adviser for the Third World Network, an independent international nonprofit network that advocates for the needs of people from the global south, about the contentious issues in the negotiations and how opposition to the pandemic treaty in some countries impacted the process.

For front-line and behind-the-scenes reporting on global health, sign up to the Devex CheckUp newsletter: https://www.devex.com/newsletters/devex-checkup]]>1046falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-historic-visit-to-washington-d-c-and-the-reauthorization-of-the-farm-bill--60152282This week we report on Kenyan President William Ruto’s visit to Washington, D.C., the first by an African leader since 2008. We dig into what the occasion means for the relationship between Kenya and the wider African continent, including whether it will lead to closer economic ties between the United States and Africa as a whole. During the conversation, we also look back at our interview with Sen. Chris Coons about the visit, in which we discussed the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, and the U.S. Africa policy.

We are also keeping a close eye on the farm bill — a $1.5 trillion piece of legislation that shapes food assistance both within the United States and abroad. While the legislation largely focuses on domestic policy, it also governs the operations of Food for Peace, a flagship food assistance program that distributes American-grown commodities across the globe. 

However, it has been proposed that at least 50% of funds should go toward U.S.-grown commodities and ocean freight. As the reauthorization negotiations continue, we explore the importance of these funds for communities in the global south and contemplate what the potential outcomes of the discussions could be. 

On the topic of food systems, we also look at a story that explores how Vanuatu is stepping up its efforts to enhance food security by combining traditional practices with modern technology.

For the latest episode of the podcast series, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with David Barth from Save the Children and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to discuss these stories and others.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60152282Thu, 23 May 2024 16:44:28 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we report on https://www.devex.com/news/us-sen-chris-coons-on-kenyan-president-s-visit-africa-policy-and-trade-107643, the first by an African leader since 2008. We dig into what the occasion means for the relationship between Kenya and the...This week we report on Kenyan President William Ruto’s visit to Washington, D.C., the first by an African leader since 2008. We dig into what the occasion means for the relationship between Kenya and the wider African continent, including whether it will lead to closer economic ties between the United States and Africa as a whole. During the conversation, we also look back at our interview with Sen. Chris Coons about the visit, in which we discussed the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, and the U.S. Africa policy.

We are also keeping a close eye on the farm bill — a $1.5 trillion piece of legislation that shapes food assistance both within the United States and abroad. While the legislation largely focuses on domestic policy, it also governs the operations of Food for Peace, a flagship food assistance program that distributes American-grown commodities across the globe. 

However, it has been proposed that at least 50% of funds should go toward U.S.-grown commodities and ocean freight. As the reauthorization negotiations continue, we explore the importance of these funds for communities in the global south and contemplate what the potential outcomes of the discussions could be. 

On the topic of food systems, we also look at a story that explores how Vanuatu is stepping up its efforts to enhance food security by combining traditional practices with modern technology.

For the latest episode of the podcast series, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with David Barth from Save the Children and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to discuss these stories and others.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2106africa,development,kenya,usa,vanuatufalse49fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/melinda-french-gates-next-chapter-and-a-new-platform-to-increase-aid-transparency--60068288This week marked a significant development in the philanthropic world with Melinda French Gates resigning from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to focus on the "next chapter" of her philanthropy. As part of the separation agreement with her former husband Bill Gates, French Gates will receive an additional $12.5 billion for her work on behalf of women and families, an area which she has been pushing to get involved with. 

On the topic of philanthropy, we also took a look at where MacKenzie Scott has been spending her money. Known for her unorthodox attitude to philanthropy, she has already given away $17.3 billion since 2020, mostly as unconditional grants. While many have praised her approach to philanthropic giving, it appears as though few have followed suit when it comes to allowing recipients to decide how they would like to spend the funds they receive. 

We also reported on Unlock Aid’s plans to launch a platform dubbed the “Glassdoor for Primes'' in the coming months. The tool would allow local organizations to publicly review major international NGOs, contractors, and agencies on their accountability and treatment of subgrantees.

In order to discuss these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Sasha Fisher from Spark Microgrants and Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60068288Fri, 17 May 2024 07:54:27 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week marked a significant development in the philanthropic world with https://www.devex.com/news/melinda-french-gates-resigns-from-bill-melinda-gates-foundation-107623 from the...This week marked a significant development in the philanthropic world with Melinda French Gates resigning from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to focus on the "next chapter" of her philanthropy. As part of the separation agreement with her former husband Bill Gates, French Gates will receive an additional $12.5 billion for her work on behalf of women and families, an area which she has been pushing to get involved with. 

On the topic of philanthropy, we also took a look at where MacKenzie Scott has been spending her money. Known for her unorthodox attitude to philanthropy, she has already given away $17.3 billion since 2020, mostly as unconditional grants. While many have praised her approach to philanthropic giving, it appears as though few have followed suit when it comes to allowing recipients to decide how they would like to spend the funds they receive. 

We also reported on Unlock Aid’s plans to launch a platform dubbed the “Glassdoor for Primes'' in the coming months. The tool would allow local organizations to publicly review major international NGOs, contractors, and agencies on their accountability and treatment of subgrantees.

In order to discuss these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Sasha Fisher from Spark Microgrants and Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2428aid,development,philanthropyfalse48fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-we-expect-from-the-eu-elections-and-allegations-against-the-africa-cdc--59960684The European Parliamentary elections will take place next month, and with anti-aid and anti-migrant parties poised to make big gains, there are fears for the future of the world's second-largest development budget. 

According to one senior Brussels politician, the controversial swiping of €2 billion from the development pot to fund a crackdown on illegal migration could just be the start of the European Union’s reduced focus on supporting global development initiatives. We explore how Europe’s political landscape is changing, as well as what it could mean to the EU’s approach to foreign assistance.

In South Africa, we found that the country’s politics is preventing NGOs from effectively delivering health services to refugees and migrants. Aid groups and civil society organizations are trying to untangle the snarled problem of how to guarantee access to health services for all people who are far from home — whether that home is in another country or somewhere else in South Africa — without creating disparities in health care services that enrage local communities.

On the topic of the continent, Devex obtained a copy of an African Union audit that examined accusations against Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention's Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya. The audit, which was finalized in March, analyzed over a dozen allegations in a February whistleblower email. We dig into the claims, including allegations of misusing funds, flouting rules, and exhibiting favoritism, among others. 
For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Sara Jerving to discuss these stories and others. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59960684Fri, 10 May 2024 07:57:59 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe European Parliamentary elections will take place next month, and with https://www.devex.com/news/dangerous-moment-for-aid-policy-as-eu-braces-for-far-right-surge-107459, there are fears for the future of the world's second-largest development...The European Parliamentary elections will take place next month, and with anti-aid and anti-migrant parties poised to make big gains, there are fears for the future of the world's second-largest development budget. 

According to one senior Brussels politician, the controversial swiping of €2 billion from the development pot to fund a crackdown on illegal migration could just be the start of the European Union’s reduced focus on supporting global development initiatives. We explore how Europe’s political landscape is changing, as well as what it could mean to the EU’s approach to foreign assistance.

In South Africa, we found that the country’s politics is preventing NGOs from effectively delivering health services to refugees and migrants. Aid groups and civil society organizations are trying to untangle the snarled problem of how to guarantee access to health services for all people who are far from home — whether that home is in another country or somewhere else in South Africa — without creating disparities in health care services that enrage local communities.

On the topic of the continent, Devex obtained a copy of an African Union audit that examined accusations against Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention's Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya. The audit, which was finalized in March, analyzed over a dozen allegations in a February whistleblower email. We dig into the claims, including allegations of misusing funds, flouting rules, and exhibiting favoritism, among others. 
For the latest episode of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Sara Jerving to discuss these stories and others. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2140africa,controversy,elections,eufalse47fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-africa-club-europe-s-development-agenda-and-usaid-s-struggles--59784483This week we discuss the establishment of the Africa Club by the African Union, an initiative that the continent’s leaders hope will drive reform of the global financial architecture. With African states currently spending more on debt repayments than they are on health care or climate action, the goal is for the alliance to leverage more funding for global development efforts. 

On the topic of Africa, we also reported on a gathering of African leaders who outlined their funding priorities for the International Development Association, the World Bank's fund for the lowest-income countries. From building climate resilience to greater energy and digital access, we examine why IDA is such an important tool for countries in the global south.

We also break down leaked documents from the European Commission that outline its development vision for the next five years. To almost nobody’s surprise, it appears as though the EU is planning to pursue a foreign aid agenda based on its own economic interests rather than prioritizing issues linked to poverty and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. And like the U.S. Agency for International Development, which is struggling to meet its localization objectives, the EU also faces issues around staffing that affect its ability to carry out effective aid delivery. 

To analyze these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Bidjan Nashat, managing director of Aequitas Human Capital, and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for this week’s edition of our podcast series. 


Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59784483Thu, 02 May 2024 20:16:54 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we discuss the establishment of the Africa Club by the African Union, an initiative that the continent’s leaders hope will https://www.devex.com/news/can-a-new-africa-union-alliance-hasten-global-financial-reforms-107174. With African states...This week we discuss the establishment of the Africa Club by the African Union, an initiative that the continent’s leaders hope will drive reform of the global financial architecture. With African states currently spending more on debt repayments than they are on health care or climate action, the goal is for the alliance to leverage more funding for global development efforts. 

On the topic of Africa, we also reported on a gathering of African leaders who outlined their funding priorities for the International Development Association, the World Bank's fund for the lowest-income countries. From building climate resilience to greater energy and digital access, we examine why IDA is such an important tool for countries in the global south.

We also break down leaked documents from the European Commission that outline its development vision for the next five years. To almost nobody’s surprise, it appears as though the EU is planning to pursue a foreign aid agenda based on its own economic interests rather than prioritizing issues linked to poverty and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. And like the U.S. Agency for International Development, which is struggling to meet its localization objectives, the EU also faces issues around staffing that affect its ability to carry out effective aid delivery. 

To analyze these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Bidjan Nashat, managing director of Aequitas Human Capital, and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for this week’s edition of our podcast series. 


Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1954africa,development,europe,financefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-what-s-at-stake-in-the-world-bank-s-ida-replenishment--59694542

In this episode, we speak to Dirk Reinnerman, the Director of the IDA Resource Mobilization and IBRD Corporate Finance at the World Bank, about his pitch to donors in the IDA replenishment, and how it ties to broader bank reforms.

We also hear from Garghee Ghosh, the president of global advocacy and policy at the Gates Foundation about what makes IDA unique, and Serah Makka, the Africa Executive director at the ONE Campaign.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59694542Mon, 29 Apr 2024 08:39:13 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIDA, or International Development Association is the world bank’s fund for the poorest countries. IDA provides grants and low-cost loans that countries can use for a variety of needs from health to education to infrastructure. This year it's up for...

In this episode, we speak to Dirk Reinnerman, the Director of the IDA Resource Mobilization and IBRD Corporate Finance at the World Bank, about his pitch to donors in the IDA replenishment, and how it ties to broader bank reforms.

We also hear from Garghee Ghosh, the president of global advocacy and policy at the Gates Foundation about what makes IDA unique, and Serah Makka, the Africa Executive director at the ONE Campaign.]]>1502falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-value-of-cash-transfers-and-usaid-s-budget-boost--59663391Last week we were the media partner at the Global Inclusive Growth Summit hosted by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. The conference focused on how access to financial services are key to helping drive global development in low- and middle-income countries. 


During one of the events, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley stressed the importance of debt restructuring in order to help low- and middle-income countries overcome health and climate change challenges. We discuss the value of cash transfers for building resilience to crises by providing money to those in need quickly and efficiently, as well as how they can help increase financial inclusion globally.
 
We also published a story on Grant Assistant, an AI tool supporting its users in the writing grant applications. From speeding up the process of navigating the paperwork to helping local and smaller organizations access USAID grants, we discuss the tool’s potential impact on the global development sector. 

This week, the U.S. Congress passed a bill, which would unlock around $9.2 billion in humanitarian aid. We contemplate what this means for USAID and where the money could go. 

To dig into these stories, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with Yolande Wright, vice president of partnerships at GiveDirectly, and Devex Senior Reporter Michael Igoe for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59663391Fri, 26 Apr 2024 07:39:13 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week we were the media partner at the Global Inclusive Growth Summit hosted by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. The conference focused on how access to financial services are key to helping drive global development in low- and...Last week we were the media partner at the Global Inclusive Growth Summit hosted by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. The conference focused on how access to financial services are key to helping drive global development in low- and middle-income countries. 


During one of the events, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley stressed the importance of debt restructuring in order to help low- and middle-income countries overcome health and climate change challenges. We discuss the value of cash transfers for building resilience to crises by providing money to those in need quickly and efficiently, as well as how they can help increase financial inclusion globally.
 
We also published a story on Grant Assistant, an AI tool supporting its users in the writing grant applications. From speeding up the process of navigating the paperwork to helping local and smaller organizations access USAID grants, we discuss the tool’s potential impact on the global development sector. 

This week, the U.S. Congress passed a bill, which would unlock around $9.2 billion in humanitarian aid. We contemplate what this means for USAID and where the money could go. 

To dig into these stories, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with Yolande Wright, vice president of partnerships at GiveDirectly, and Devex Senior Reporter Michael Igoe for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2129ai,cash,development,technology,usaidfalse45fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-undp-s-achim-steiner-on-outcomes-from-the-g20-meetings--59649286
In an exclusive conversation with Achim Steiner, the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), key insights emerged regarding the discussions surrounding coordination, the global financial architecture, and pressing challenges facing developing economies.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59649286Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:04:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs finance ministers and central bank governors from the G20 nations concluded their recent meetings, concerns over the pace and stability of global economic recovery took center stage. In an exclusive conversation with Achim Steiner, the...
In an exclusive conversation with Achim Steiner, the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), key insights emerged regarding the discussions surrounding coordination, the global financial architecture, and pressing challenges facing developing economies.]]>1404falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-spring-meetings-takeaways--59613462World Bank and International Monetary Fund are trying to evolve and prove they are fit for purpose, but the jury is out on just how far that evolution process has gone. 

While numerous announcements were made at the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings last week in Washington D.C., the pace of reform is too slow, according to several experts.

“The rhetoric in terms of the important pronouncements that have been made are saying the right things, but they're not giving you the next three things that could get done in the next month, in the next three months, in the next six months, in the next 12 months,” Afsaneh Beschloss, founder and CEO of investment firm RockCreek, told Devex.  

“And so what I would urge the shareholders to do is really get serious, put pressure on the World Bank to start getting things done, not to look at the negativity, but look at the need,” she said, adding that “so much can get done today as we speak.”

This gap between rhetoric and reality, between policy making at 10,000 feet and the impact on the real ground-level economy, was evident in the meetings, experts tell Devex in this podcast episode.

"The world is in a very, very difficult place. There is progress, but not enough. Reforms need to broaden and deepen to address the grave situation," Rachel Kyte, professor of practice in climate policy at the University of Oxford, told Devex.

We also speak with John Denton, the secretary general of the International Chamber of Commerce.Want to understand what played out at the meetings and what’s next? This podcast episode will give you the rundown.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59613462Tue, 23 Apr 2024 10:57:42 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 and https://www.devex.com/organizations/international-monetary-fund-imf-44300 are trying to evolve and prove they are fit for purpose, but the jury is out on just how far that evolution...World Bank and International Monetary Fund are trying to evolve and prove they are fit for purpose, but the jury is out on just how far that evolution process has gone. 

While numerous announcements were made at the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings last week in Washington D.C., the pace of reform is too slow, according to several experts.

“The rhetoric in terms of the important pronouncements that have been made are saying the right things, but they're not giving you the next three things that could get done in the next month, in the next three months, in the next six months, in the next 12 months,” Afsaneh Beschloss, founder and CEO of investment firm RockCreek, told Devex.  

“And so what I would urge the shareholders to do is really get serious, put pressure on the World Bank to start getting things done, not to look at the negativity, but look at the need,” she said, adding that “so much can get done today as we speak.”

This gap between rhetoric and reality, between policy making at 10,000 feet and the impact on the real ground-level economy, was evident in the meetings, experts tell Devex in this podcast episode.

"The world is in a very, very difficult place. There is progress, but not enough. Reforms need to broaden and deepen to address the grave situation," Rachel Kyte, professor of practice in climate policy at the University of Oxford, told Devex.

We also speak with John Denton, the secretary general of the International Chamber of Commerce.Want to understand what played out at the meetings and what’s next? This podcast episode will give you the rundown.]]>1680falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-the-skinny-on-world-bank-plans-to-harness-private-capital--59579914How can the World Bank play a role in attracting more private capital to address development and climate needs?

That is a challenge that World Bank President Ajay Banga has prioritized and was a key discussion in Washington, D.C., last week at the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings.

From a Private Sector Investment Lab charged with helping the bank identify and scale what already works to a new loan guarantee platform and plans to bundle and sell some International Finance Corporation investments to private investors, changes are afoot. 
But there are questions about how far existing proposals go, if they will succeed, and how exactly private sector mobilization will be measured. 

In this podcast episode we hear from experts about how those efforts stack up and what more can be done to attract private money to these markets. 

We dive into what the Private Sector Investment Lab has prioritized, why mobilization efforts have been stymied, and the importance of data transparency in these discussions. 

Gavin Wilson, who leads DAI Capital; Nancy Lee, director for Sustainable Development Finance at the Center for Global Development; Ben Weisman, executive director of capital mobilization and public policy at the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero; and Gary Forster, CEO of Publish What You Fund share their insights. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59579914Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:56:58 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentHow can the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 play a role in attracting more private capital to address development and climate needs? That is a challenge that World Bank President Ajay Banga has prioritized and was a key...How can the World Bank play a role in attracting more private capital to address development and climate needs?

That is a challenge that World Bank President Ajay Banga has prioritized and was a key discussion in Washington, D.C., last week at the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings.

From a Private Sector Investment Lab charged with helping the bank identify and scale what already works to a new loan guarantee platform and plans to bundle and sell some International Finance Corporation investments to private investors, changes are afoot. 
But there are questions about how far existing proposals go, if they will succeed, and how exactly private sector mobilization will be measured. 

In this podcast episode we hear from experts about how those efforts stack up and what more can be done to attract private money to these markets. 

We dive into what the Private Sector Investment Lab has prioritized, why mobilization efforts have been stymied, and the importance of data transparency in these discussions. 

Gavin Wilson, who leads DAI Capital; Nancy Lee, director for Sustainable Development Finance at the Center for Global Development; Ben Weisman, executive director of capital mobilization and public policy at the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero; and Gary Forster, CEO of Publish What You Fund share their insights. ]]>1669falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-can-the-world-bank-be-a-better-partner-in-global-development--59547158This week we are closely following the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings taking place in  Washington, D.C. From having a capital increase to provide funding for the world's low-income countries to how the financial institution can support the fight against climate change, we dig into the key conversations we’re following at the conference. 


In addition to increasing risk appetite to encourage private capital mobilization, we argue that multilateral development banks, as well as organizations under the World Bank Group umbrella should be collaborating better in order to maximize impact. 

To discuss how the bank can be reformed for it to be a better partner in global development, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with World Resources Institute CEO Ani Dasgupta and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59547158Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:54:19 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we are closely following the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 and https://www.devex.com/organizations/international-monetary-fund-imf-44300Spring Meetings taking place in  Washington, D.C. From having a capital...This week we are closely following the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings taking place in  Washington, D.C. From having a capital increase to provide funding for the world's low-income countries to how the financial institution can support the fight against climate change, we dig into the key conversations we’re following at the conference. 


In addition to increasing risk appetite to encourage private capital mobilization, we argue that multilateral development banks, as well as organizations under the World Bank Group umbrella should be collaborating better in order to maximize impact. 

To discuss how the bank can be reformed for it to be a better partner in global development, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with World Resources Institute CEO Ani Dasgupta and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2588development,financefalse44fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-world-bank-imf-unpacking-world-bank-reforms-progress-and-path-forward--59468197World Bank is about 18 months into its efforts to reform the institution in response to shareholder demands and changing global needs. From stretching its existing funding to attracting more private capital, the bank has laid a laundry list of proposals on the table.

So what has been accomplished thus far and what more is needed? That’s what we tackle in the first episode of a special edition podcast during this year’s World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings, which take place in Washington D.C. this week. The bank has a new capital adequacy framework to get more out of its own money, a new mission statement making climate change part of its core ambition, and of course a new leader in Ajay Banga.

Listen in to hear Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger in conversation with Clemence Landers, a senior policy fellow at the Center for Global Development, Kevin Gallagher, director of the Global Development Policy Center at Boston University, Stephanie von Friedeburg, managing director of banking and capital markets advisory at Citi, and Rep. French Hill, a Republican from Arkansas, who is vice chair of the House Financial Services Committee.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59468197Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:47:00 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 is about 18 months into its efforts to reform the institution in response to shareholder demands and changing global needs. From stretching its existing funding to attracting more private...World Bank is about 18 months into its efforts to reform the institution in response to shareholder demands and changing global needs. From stretching its existing funding to attracting more private capital, the bank has laid a laundry list of proposals on the table.

So what has been accomplished thus far and what more is needed? That’s what we tackle in the first episode of a special edition podcast during this year’s World Bank and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings, which take place in Washington D.C. this week. The bank has a new capital adequacy framework to get more out of its own money, a new mission statement making climate change part of its core ambition, and of course a new leader in Ajay Banga.

Listen in to hear Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger in conversation with Clemence Landers, a senior policy fellow at the Center for Global Development, Kevin Gallagher, director of the Global Development Policy Center at Boston University, Stephanie von Friedeburg, managing director of banking and capital markets advisory at Citi, and Rep. French Hill, a Republican from Arkansas, who is vice chair of the House Financial Services Committee.]]>1527falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/israel-s-attempt-to-dismantle-unrwa-and-usaid-s-localization-spending--59421962As the war in Gaza stretches past the six-month mark, this week we had an exclusive story on Israel’s efforts to disrupt and dismantle UNRWA, the United Nations agency leading the humanitarian response for Palestinians. The agency — caught in a political war — was forced to ground its fleet of trucks, cars, and security specialists used by other U.N. agencies delivering support to those affected by the conflict. 

We have also been closely following the conversations around localization. A few months ago, a rural Sierra Leone-based nonprofit leader was unable to get a visa to a conference in Denmark — which led to an open letter demanding change in how convening spaces on locally led development should be organized. Four months later, it appears that some foundations, international organizations, and networks have committed to listening, including the U.S. Agency for International Development. We explore how localization can be more effectively carried out, including the need to move the headquarters of institutions closer to the communities they aim to serve, as well as having greater representation from the developing world in academia. 

Also on the topic of localization, we dug into the analysis of how much of USAID’s money went to local grantees in 2023. We found that the agency allocated around $1.3 billion to local partners via grants and cooperative agreements in 2023, which is the same amount as the previous fiscal year. 

To discuss these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Aude Darnal of the Stimson Center and Devex’s U.N. correspondent Colum Lynch for this week’s episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59421962Thu, 11 Apr 2024 16:55:50 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs the war in Gaza stretches past the six-month mark, this week we had an exclusive story on https://www.devex.com/news/exclusive-unrwa-restrictions-hamper-gaza-relief-by-broader-un-107419, the United Nations agency leading the humanitarian response...As the war in Gaza stretches past the six-month mark, this week we had an exclusive story on Israel’s efforts to disrupt and dismantle UNRWA, the United Nations agency leading the humanitarian response for Palestinians. The agency — caught in a political war — was forced to ground its fleet of trucks, cars, and security specialists used by other U.N. agencies delivering support to those affected by the conflict. 

We have also been closely following the conversations around localization. A few months ago, a rural Sierra Leone-based nonprofit leader was unable to get a visa to a conference in Denmark — which led to an open letter demanding change in how convening spaces on locally led development should be organized. Four months later, it appears that some foundations, international organizations, and networks have committed to listening, including the U.S. Agency for International Development. We explore how localization can be more effectively carried out, including the need to move the headquarters of institutions closer to the communities they aim to serve, as well as having greater representation from the developing world in academia. 

Also on the topic of localization, we dug into the analysis of how much of USAID’s money went to local grantees in 2023. We found that the agency allocated around $1.3 billion to local partners via grants and cooperative agreements in 2023, which is the same amount as the previous fiscal year. 

To discuss these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Aude Darnal of the Stimson Center and Devex’s U.N. correspondent Colum Lynch for this week’s episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2182gaza,israel,localization,palestine,unrwa,usaidfalse43fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/usaid-s-spending-plan-and-reforming-the-inter-american-development-bank--59294950Last week, we launched Roots of Change, a Devex series on locally led development, which explores how the localization agenda can be elevated from rhetoric to reality. We have been following the discussions around localization for the past couple of years and the progress made toward empowering local communities in shaping global development initiatives. As part of the series, we published an article that outlines five key takeaways we learned about the current state of the debate based on our coverage. We highlight that while progress is slow, change is inevitable. 

At the Inter-American Development Bank, major developments are underway. From changing how they operate to identifying new metrics of success, we dig into how the financial institution plans to become a better partner in development as it urges other MDBs to undergo reform as well.

We also touch upon an interactive article we published on the U.S. Agency for International Development’s spending plan for the upcoming months. Find out how the agency is planning to distribute $25.6 billion, including the sectors and countries targeted. 

In the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Nasra Ismail, U.S. enterprise executive director at Alight, and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to discuss the global development stories above.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59294950Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:55:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week, we launched https://pages.devex.com/roots-of-change, a Devex series on locally led development, which explores how the localization agenda can be elevated from rhetoric to reality. We have been following the discussions around localization...Last week, we launched Roots of Change, a Devex series on locally led development, which explores how the localization agenda can be elevated from rhetoric to reality. We have been following the discussions around localization for the past couple of years and the progress made toward empowering local communities in shaping global development initiatives. As part of the series, we published an article that outlines five key takeaways we learned about the current state of the debate based on our coverage. We highlight that while progress is slow, change is inevitable. 

At the Inter-American Development Bank, major developments are underway. From changing how they operate to identifying new metrics of success, we dig into how the financial institution plans to become a better partner in development as it urges other MDBs to undergo reform as well.

We also touch upon an interactive article we published on the U.S. Agency for International Development’s spending plan for the upcoming months. Find out how the agency is planning to distribute $25.6 billion, including the sectors and countries targeted. 

In the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Nasra Ismail, U.S. enterprise executive director at Alight, and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to discuss the global development stories above.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. 
]]>1919america,finance,localization,usa,usaidfalse42fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-localization-legislation-and-the-severe-risk-to-uk-aid--59209816This week, we reported that at the Employees at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems — a 37-year-old pro-democracy organization based outside Washington, D.C. — employees formed a new staff union to confront their organization’s president and CEO over labor rights. The issue is entangled within the wider debates of localization. While employees most certainly want to provide technical support to local partners, they do not believe that the process should undervalue the employees who provide it. 

At the end of last week, The Locally Led Development and Humanitarian Response Act was passed by the House Foreign Affairs Committee, legislation that would ease complexities in USAID's grantmaking process. While the bill still needs to clear the U.S. Senate, most seem hopeful it will do so. It is believed that the legislation would help USAID reach its localization targets, especially if it is passed before the U.S. general election in November. 

On the other side of the pond, a spending watchdog found that the creation of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has undermined the United Kingdom’s ability to carry out aid work. The report also raises the alarm that "staff have experienced change fatigue and are unhappy that key issues such as terms and conditions and career pathways have yet to be resolved.”

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with George Ingram and Fiona Zublin for the latest episode of the podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59209816Thu, 28 Mar 2024 16:51:32 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week, we reported that at the Employees at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems — a 37-year-old pro-democracy organization based outside Washington, D.C. — employees formed a new staff union...This week, we reported that at the Employees at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems — a 37-year-old pro-democracy organization based outside Washington, D.C. — employees formed a new staff union to confront their organization’s president and CEO over labor rights. The issue is entangled within the wider debates of localization. While employees most certainly want to provide technical support to local partners, they do not believe that the process should undervalue the employees who provide it. 

At the end of last week, The Locally Led Development and Humanitarian Response Act was passed by the House Foreign Affairs Committee, legislation that would ease complexities in USAID's grantmaking process. While the bill still needs to clear the U.S. Senate, most seem hopeful it will do so. It is believed that the legislation would help USAID reach its localization targets, especially if it is passed before the U.S. general election in November. 

On the other side of the pond, a spending watchdog found that the creation of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has undermined the United Kingdom’s ability to carry out aid work. The report also raises the alarm that "staff have experienced change fatigue and are unhappy that key issues such as terms and conditions and career pathways have yet to be resolved.”

To dig into these stories, and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with George Ingram and Fiona Zublin for the latest episode of the podcast series. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2063gaza,uk,usa,usaidfalse41fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-it-business-as-usual-as-usaid-issues-its-latest-5-billion-contract--59141218unveiled its latest $5 billion global health supply contract, part of its NextGen suite of contracts. Worth $17 billion in total, it’s the largest suite of foreign aid contracts ever issued, to be delivered over the course of 10 years. But despite all the talk around localization, it’s highly likely the contracts will end up going to the usual industry players.

“Most of the low- or middle-income countries, they can do without those USAID-funded contractors coming to do things for them,” said Olusoji Adeyi, president of Resilient Health Systems and a staunch advocate for the decolonization of the sector. 

The previous iteration of USAID’s global health supply contract, worth $9.5 billion and delivered solely through Chemonics, failed to live up to expectations after running into multiple delays and performance problems. “USAID has refused to learn, and they are throwing $17 billion of taxpayer money after a failed business model,” said Adeyi.

Listen to the latest episode of This Week in Global Development to hear Adeyi discuss this topic and the other big stories from the week with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Managing Editor Anna Gawel.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59141218Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:52:29 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week, USAID https://www.devex.com/news/usaid-s-largest-nextgen-contract-unveiled-who-will-get-5-billion-107253, part of its NextGen suite of contracts. Worth $17 billion in total, it’s the largest suite of foreign aid contracts ever issued, to be...unveiled its latest $5 billion global health supply contract, part of its NextGen suite of contracts. Worth $17 billion in total, it’s the largest suite of foreign aid contracts ever issued, to be delivered over the course of 10 years. But despite all the talk around localization, it’s highly likely the contracts will end up going to the usual industry players.

“Most of the low- or middle-income countries, they can do without those USAID-funded contractors coming to do things for them,” said Olusoji Adeyi, president of Resilient Health Systems and a staunch advocate for the decolonization of the sector. 

The previous iteration of USAID’s global health supply contract, worth $9.5 billion and delivered solely through Chemonics, failed to live up to expectations after running into multiple delays and performance problems. “USAID has refused to learn, and they are throwing $17 billion of taxpayer money after a failed business model,” said Adeyi.

Listen to the latest episode of This Week in Global Development to hear Adeyi discuss this topic and the other big stories from the week with Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Managing Editor Anna Gawel.]]>2396false40fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-sxsw-these-doctors-turned-entrepreneurs-are-using-tech-to-transform-health--59124202Last week, Aya Contigo, its digital companion for abortion and contraception support that launched in Venezuela and has since expanded to the United States, was a winner of South by Southwest’s Innovation Showcase.

Dr. Roopan Gill, co-founder and CEO of Vitala Global Foundation, was in Austin, Texas, to talk about the role technology can play in providing more accessible reproductive health resources, especially amidst growing restrictions on reproductive rights.

“It's not just an app providing passive information,” she said. “We're really trying to see how it acts as a glue, as an ecosystem integrator, especially in this day and age where we have so much complexity around abortion access.”

Gill spoke with Devex for Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.

The episode also featured Jarone Lee, co-founder of Health Tech Without Borders, a nonprofit organization working on digital health solutions, including telemedicine and chatbots, in the context of humanitarian disasters.

Listen to the podcast to hear how these two doctors turned social entrepreneurs are leveraging technology to improve health care access in some of the most challenging settings to deliver care. 

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59124202Thu, 21 Mar 2024 19:32:10 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentVitala Global Foundation is a nonprofit organization that works with girls and women to develop digital solutions for stigmatized sexual and reproductive health issues, including abortions. Last week, Aya Contigo, its digital companion for abortion...Last week, Aya Contigo, its digital companion for abortion and contraception support that launched in Venezuela and has since expanded to the United States, was a winner of South by Southwest’s Innovation Showcase.

Dr. Roopan Gill, co-founder and CEO of Vitala Global Foundation, was in Austin, Texas, to talk about the role technology can play in providing more accessible reproductive health resources, especially amidst growing restrictions on reproductive rights.

“It's not just an app providing passive information,” she said. “We're really trying to see how it acts as a glue, as an ecosystem integrator, especially in this day and age where we have so much complexity around abortion access.”

Gill spoke with Devex for Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.

The episode also featured Jarone Lee, co-founder of Health Tech Without Borders, a nonprofit organization working on digital health solutions, including telemedicine and chatbots, in the context of humanitarian disasters.

Listen to the podcast to hear how these two doctors turned social entrepreneurs are leveraging technology to improve health care access in some of the most challenging settings to deliver care. 

]]>1501falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-sxsw-technology-s-role-in-the-future-of-food-systems--59105310
“I think the question is, how's it going to be used in our food system in a way that actually promotes all of the objectives that we want?” said Roy Steiner, senior vice president for the Food Initiative at The Rockefeller Foundation. “Technology tends to be a fairly neutral tool. It multiplies whatever is underneath it. So if we have a completely inequitable system, it will multiply the inequity.”
 
Steiner spoke with Devex on the sidelines of South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, where conversations focused on the ways technology will transform every aspect of society, including the way the world grows, produces, distributes, supplies, and consumes food.
The current food system is detrimental environmentally, socially, and nutritionally, Steiner said, adding that he’s hopeful that technological advancements can help the world transition to a more regenerative and equitable system.

Listen to the episode to hear more about the future of food systems on Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.

The podcast also features Paul Newnham, executive director of the SDG2 Advocacy Hub, which coordinates global advocacy in support of food system transformation, and Joke Aerts, open chain lead at Tony’s Chocolonely, a company on a mission to end modern slavery and illegal child labor in cocoa. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59105310Tue, 19 Mar 2024 21:31:15 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThere’s no question that artificial intelligence will have a massive impact on the future of food systems, but it remains to be seen whether it will address or perpetuate inequities. “I think the question is, how's it going to be used in our food...
“I think the question is, how's it going to be used in our food system in a way that actually promotes all of the objectives that we want?” said Roy Steiner, senior vice president for the Food Initiative at The Rockefeller Foundation. “Technology tends to be a fairly neutral tool. It multiplies whatever is underneath it. So if we have a completely inequitable system, it will multiply the inequity.”
 
Steiner spoke with Devex on the sidelines of South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, where conversations focused on the ways technology will transform every aspect of society, including the way the world grows, produces, distributes, supplies, and consumes food.
The current food system is detrimental environmentally, socially, and nutritionally, Steiner said, adding that he’s hopeful that technological advancements can help the world transition to a more regenerative and equitable system.

Listen to the episode to hear more about the future of food systems on Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.

The podcast also features Paul Newnham, executive director of the SDG2 Advocacy Hub, which coordinates global advocacy in support of food system transformation, and Joke Aerts, open chain lead at Tony’s Chocolonely, a company on a mission to end modern slavery and illegal child labor in cocoa. ]]>2434falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-sxsw-how-3-organizations-are-leveraging-technology-for-a-more-equitable-future--59092824
“We’re either going to find this money somewhere under the cushions … or we’re going to make it cheaper,” said Hala Hanna, executive director of Solve, an initiative of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology that launches open calls and backs innovators working to solve global problems. “So we really believe that innovation and finding new voices and new ideas is one key part of doing that.” 

Devex spoke with Hanna at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. She drew on some of the same themes as Najada Kumbuli, head of investments at the Visa Foundation, and Nazanin Ash, CEO of Welcome.US.

Each of them discussed the ways their organizations leverage innovation, technology, and investment to support new solutions for the SDGs that won’t come from traditional models. 
Listen to the episode to hear more on their strategies to build a more equitable future on Devex @SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59092824Tue, 19 Mar 2024 10:15:31 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe world needs new approaches, not just more funding, as it faces a financing gap of an estimated $4 trillion annually to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs. “We’re either going to find this money somewhere under the cushions … or...
“We’re either going to find this money somewhere under the cushions … or we’re going to make it cheaper,” said Hala Hanna, executive director of Solve, an initiative of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology that launches open calls and backs innovators working to solve global problems. “So we really believe that innovation and finding new voices and new ideas is one key part of doing that.” 

Devex spoke with Hanna at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. She drew on some of the same themes as Najada Kumbuli, head of investments at the Visa Foundation, and Nazanin Ash, CEO of Welcome.US.

Each of them discussed the ways their organizations leverage innovation, technology, and investment to support new solutions for the SDGs that won’t come from traditional models. 
Listen to the episode to hear more on their strategies to build a more equitable future on Devex @SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.]]>2281falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-sxsw-how-emerson-collective-prioritizes-causes-and-partners--59049210
Devex's Kate Warren spoke with Burgoyne about Emerson Collective’s unique approach, its growing work on climate through the Waverley Street Foundation, and how Emerson Collective looks at the role of artificial intelligence in social change. 

Listen to the episode to hear more from Burgoyne on Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59049210Thu, 14 Mar 2024 20:08:30 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIt’s no surprise that Anne Marie Burgoyne, managing director of Emerson Collective, had a long line of people forming to meet with her following her session at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas Wednesday. Burgoyne leads philanthropy for this social...
Devex's Kate Warren spoke with Burgoyne about Emerson Collective’s unique approach, its growing work on climate through the Waverley Street Foundation, and how Emerson Collective looks at the role of artificial intelligence in social change. 

Listen to the episode to hear more from Burgoyne on Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of our This Week in Global Development podcast.]]>1570falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/innovation-at-sxsw-and-food-as-a-weapon-of-war--59047532
We've also got Food Systems for the Future's Ertharin Cousin, who weighed in on our recent piece on the weaponizaton of food, accusations that USAID meddled in Zimbabwe's democratic process, and the utlity of the Pandemic Fund. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59047532Thu, 14 Mar 2024 18:21:33 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentOn this week's episode, we go behind the scenes at SXSW with Devex Executive Editor Kate Warren, who brings us the latest on the innovations in food and agriculture being discussed at the wide-ranging conference and festival.  We've also got Food...
We've also got Food Systems for the Future's Ertharin Cousin, who weighed in on our recent piece on the weaponizaton of food, accusations that USAID meddled in Zimbabwe's democratic process, and the utlity of the Pandemic Fund. 

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2210agriculture,food,pandemic,sxsw,usaidfalse39fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devex-sxsw-comfort-ero-on-the-world-s-conflicts-and-the-trends-driving-them--59020598
Comfort Ero, president and CEO of Crisis Group, says the organization was “made for this moment,” as crises continue to unfold from Gaza to Haiti to Ukraine. 

She spoke with Devex on the sidelines of South by Southwest, an annual conference in Austin, Texas, about America's role in the world, ahead of a high stakes U.S. presidential election, as well as the war in Gaza, and how the climate crisis and the rise of AI are shaping the future of conflict. 

“Our job is to find the political will, and to create ideas beyond the headlines, to get away from the noise, and to quietly try to thread the needle in a very complex and very dangerous world,” Ero said. 

Listen to the episode to hear more from Ero on Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of This Week in Global Development. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59020598Tue, 12 Mar 2024 19:08:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentNext year marks 30 years since the start of the International Crisis Group, which conducts research and analysis to prevent and resolve global conflict.  Comfort Ero, president and CEO of Crisis Group, says the organization was “made for this...
Comfort Ero, president and CEO of Crisis Group, says the organization was “made for this moment,” as crises continue to unfold from Gaza to Haiti to Ukraine. 

She spoke with Devex on the sidelines of South by Southwest, an annual conference in Austin, Texas, about America's role in the world, ahead of a high stakes U.S. presidential election, as well as the war in Gaza, and how the climate crisis and the rise of AI are shaping the future of conflict. 

“Our job is to find the political will, and to create ideas beyond the headlines, to get away from the noise, and to quietly try to thread the needle in a very complex and very dangerous world,” Ero said. 

Listen to the episode to hear more from Ero on Devex @ SXSW, a special edition of This Week in Global Development. ]]>1861development,gaza,sxswfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-at-usaid-s-spending-and-the-africa-cdc-s-wishlist--58968502This week we published an article on how USAID spent its money last year. We noted that the agency spent $38.1 billion through its assistance and acquisition mechanism in the fiscal year that ended in September 2023. From the data it is evident that USAID has increased its spending for humanitarian crises, including the war in Ukraine.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention released their wishlist for the pandemic treaty. However, with countries in the global north — including the United Kingdom, Germany, and France — slashing their aid budgets, questions are being raised about whether there is an appetite for another pandemic financing mechanism, which is among one of the agency’s asks.

On the topic of the Africa CDC, its acting deputy director-general, Dr. Ahmed Ogwell Ouma, is resigning from the organization this month as he wasn't allowed to apply for the deputy director-general position due to country quotas. Dr. Raji Tajudeen will become the acting deputy director-general until a formal appointment is made.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Patrick Fine from Brookings and Devex Associate Editor Rumbi Chakamba for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58968502Fri, 08 Mar 2024 09:12:14 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we published an article on how https://www.devex.com/news/interactive-how-usaid-spent-its-money-in-2023-107087. We noted that the agency spent $38.1 billion through its assistance and acquisition mechanism in the fiscal year that ended in...This week we published an article on how USAID spent its money last year. We noted that the agency spent $38.1 billion through its assistance and acquisition mechanism in the fiscal year that ended in September 2023. From the data it is evident that USAID has increased its spending for humanitarian crises, including the war in Ukraine.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention released their wishlist for the pandemic treaty. However, with countries in the global north — including the United Kingdom, Germany, and France — slashing their aid budgets, questions are being raised about whether there is an appetite for another pandemic financing mechanism, which is among one of the agency’s asks.

On the topic of the Africa CDC, its acting deputy director-general, Dr. Ahmed Ogwell Ouma, is resigning from the organization this month as he wasn't allowed to apply for the deputy director-general position due to country quotas. Dr. Raji Tajudeen will become the acting deputy director-general until a formal appointment is made.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Patrick Fine from Brookings and Devex Associate Editor Rumbi Chakamba for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2256africa,bangladesh,development,health,usaidfalse38fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leaked-trade-agreements-and-the-development-organizations-to-watch--58886850This week Devex published an exclusive story on how Ghana-based NGO Youth Opportunity & Transformation in Africa, or YOTA, is embroiled in a dispute with CARE Ghana over a decision to raise staff salaries during an economic crisis where inflation was spiraling and staffers found it difficult to make ends meet. YOTA, which is one of two implementing partners, is accusing grant holder CARE Ghana of “bullying.” The story highlights some of the challenges that global development organizations are facing as they continue to try to localize.

In Asia, a series of leaked trade agreement drafts highlight growing divisions within India’s flourishing pharmaceutical industry, with the leaked documents sparking concerns over access to generic medicines.

We also elaborate on the reasoning behind what made it onto our list of 24 global development organizations to watch in 2024, which we published this week.

What’s next for global pharmaceutical manufacturing? Which organizations are missing from our list?

For the latest episode of the podcast series, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Dr. Jen Kates — senior vice president and director of global health and HIV policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation devex — as well as Devex Senior Reporter Sara Jerving to discuss the stories above, and more.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58886850Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:48:09 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week Devex published an exclusive story on how Ghana-based NGO Youth Opportunity & Transformation in Africa, or YOTA, is embroiled in a dispute with CARE Ghana over...This week Devex published an exclusive story on how Ghana-based NGO Youth Opportunity & Transformation in Africa, or YOTA, is embroiled in a dispute with CARE Ghana over a decision to raise staff salaries during an economic crisis where inflation was spiraling and staffers found it difficult to make ends meet. YOTA, which is one of two implementing partners, is accusing grant holder CARE Ghana of “bullying.” The story highlights some of the challenges that global development organizations are facing as they continue to try to localize.

In Asia, a series of leaked trade agreement drafts highlight growing divisions within India’s flourishing pharmaceutical industry, with the leaked documents sparking concerns over access to generic medicines.

We also elaborate on the reasoning behind what made it onto our list of 24 global development organizations to watch in 2024, which we published this week.

What’s next for global pharmaceutical manufacturing? Which organizations are missing from our list?

For the latest episode of the podcast series, Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger sits down with Dr. Jen Kates — senior vice president and director of global health and HIV policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation devex — as well as Devex Senior Reporter Sara Jerving to discuss the stories above, and more.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1739development,ghana,health,india,localizationfalse37fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/recapping-the-munich-security-conference-and-us-un-clash-over-unrwa--58786525Last weekend we attended the Munich Security Conference, a summit which is not as solely centered around security as its name suggests. We look back at the highlights and lowlights of the conference, which touched upon many issues linked to global development, including food security and climate change.

We also have an update on the future of UNRWA, the United Nations Palestinian relief agency, which is facing calls to be disbanded. The United States is pushing other U.N. relief agencies to take over some of its functions. However, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced concern that weakening UNRWA amid a massive humanitarian crisis would worsen the suffering of Palestinian civilians — as he believes it is the only organization with the capability to deliver assistance to the 2.2 million people with urgent needs.

On the topic of U.N. agencies, we also published an exclusive story revealing that the U.N. Population Fund is planning to move a quarter of its New York staff positions to Nairobi in 2025 to be closer to the people it serves. However, not everyone is convinced that the move is the right one, and some staff are stressed about the relocation.

In order to dig into these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with U.K. Correspondent Rob Merrick and Managing Editor Anna Gawel for the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58786525Thu, 22 Feb 2024 19:32:07 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast weekend we attended the Munich Security Conference, a summit which is not as solely centered around security as its name suggests. We look back at the...Last weekend we attended the Munich Security Conference, a summit which is not as solely centered around security as its name suggests. We look back at the highlights and lowlights of the conference, which touched upon many issues linked to global development, including food security and climate change.

We also have an update on the future of UNRWA, the United Nations Palestinian relief agency, which is facing calls to be disbanded. The United States is pushing other U.N. relief agencies to take over some of its functions. However, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced concern that weakening UNRWA amid a massive humanitarian crisis would worsen the suffering of Palestinian civilians — as he believes it is the only organization with the capability to deliver assistance to the 2.2 million people with urgent needs.

On the topic of U.N. agencies, we also published an exclusive story revealing that the U.N. Population Fund is planning to move a quarter of its New York staff positions to Nairobi in 2025 to be closer to the people it serves. However, not everyone is convinced that the move is the right one, and some staff are stressed about the relocation.

In order to dig into these stories, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with U.K. Correspondent Rob Merrick and Managing Editor Anna Gawel for the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1954gaza,msc,un,unrwafalse36fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-ensuring-a-just-energy-transition-in-africa--58704558more than 110 countries committed to triple renewable energy capacity worldwide by 2030. Africa, in particular, is a key source of critical minerals such as copper, lithium, nickel, and cobalt, which are needed to power clean technologies ranging from electric vehicles to wind turbines. But without proper safeguards in place, there is a risk that the mining of minerals for the green energy transition could end up exacerbating existing inequalities.

“One key element is social equity; prioritizing vulnerable communities to ensure that they benefit from the transition, including job creation, access to affordable clean energy, and protection from adverse impacts,” said professor Youba Sokona, former vice-chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Professor Sokona was joined by Yamide Dagnet, former director of climate justice at Open Society Foundations, and Devex’s Raj Kumar for a special episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58704558Fri, 16 Feb 2024 09:59:35 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentDuring the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai, https://www.france24.com/en/environment/20231202-more-than-110-countries-join-cop28-deal-to-triple-renewable-energy-by-2030 to triple renewable energy capacity worldwide by 2030....more than 110 countries committed to triple renewable energy capacity worldwide by 2030. Africa, in particular, is a key source of critical minerals such as copper, lithium, nickel, and cobalt, which are needed to power clean technologies ranging from electric vehicles to wind turbines. But without proper safeguards in place, there is a risk that the mining of minerals for the green energy transition could end up exacerbating existing inequalities.

“One key element is social equity; prioritizing vulnerable communities to ensure that they benefit from the transition, including job creation, access to affordable clean energy, and protection from adverse impacts,” said professor Youba Sokona, former vice-chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Professor Sokona was joined by Yamide Dagnet, former director of climate justice at Open Society Foundations, and Devex’s Raj Kumar for a special episode of This Week in Global Development.]]>2527falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-community-leaders-think-of-usaid-s-localization-plans--58700202Recently, the U.S. Agency for International Development published 14 "good practices" to define what a locally led program looks like as part of its push for half its projects to be locally led by 2030.

We spoke to local community leaders to find out what they think. While many are optimistic, some have argued that they haven’t seen much change just yet and expressed concern about whether these indicators will translate into action. For one thing, USAID’s localization guidelines do not specify whether local people can voice whether they believe a program is locally led or not.

On the topic of involving local communities in development initiatives, we also published an opinion piece outlining how decolonization must be applied to organizational design, the distribution of money, and how skill sets are valued.

Additionally, this week, the U.S. Senate passed a $95 billion emergency funding bill. While much of it is military spending, it includes about $10 billion in humanitarian aid. It now heads to the House of Representatives.

Advocates are pushing the House to approve it, though its future is uncertain as political tensions continue.

For this week’s episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Nicole Goldin, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center, as well as Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth to discuss these stories.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58700202Thu, 15 Feb 2024 21:19:39 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentRecently, the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096 published 14 "good practices" to define what a locally led program looks like as part of its push for half its projects to be locally led...Recently, the U.S. Agency for International Development published 14 "good practices" to define what a locally led program looks like as part of its push for half its projects to be locally led by 2030.

We spoke to local community leaders to find out what they think. While many are optimistic, some have argued that they haven’t seen much change just yet and expressed concern about whether these indicators will translate into action. For one thing, USAID’s localization guidelines do not specify whether local people can voice whether they believe a program is locally led or not.

On the topic of involving local communities in development initiatives, we also published an opinion piece outlining how decolonization must be applied to organizational design, the distribution of money, and how skill sets are valued.

Additionally, this week, the U.S. Senate passed a $95 billion emergency funding bill. While much of it is military spending, it includes about $10 billion in humanitarian aid. It now heads to the House of Representatives.

Advocates are pushing the House to approve it, though its future is uncertain as political tensions continue.

For this week’s episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Nicole Goldin, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center, as well as Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth to discuss these stories.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1952development,localization,usaidfalse35fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-development-finance-issues-to-watch-and-reforming-the-world-bank--58620662This week we published an article on the development finance issues to watch in 2024. From fresh climate finance targets to the role that private capital mobilization can play in overcoming global development challenges, we discuss what we expect from the upcoming year and whether the ideas proposed will lead to tangible change in low-income countries.

On the topic of capital increase, at an event on Monday, World Bank President Ajay Banga discussed his plans to reform the way the institution runs, including speeding up project approvals and streamlining the International Development Association ahead of its replenishment this year. It is hoped that the reforms will help increase the capital needed to overcome development challenges.

Are the proposed reforms to the development finance architecture achievable? What is missing from the agenda?

To answer these questions and dig into these stories, as well as others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Global Nation co-founder Jonathan Glennie, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58620662Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:19:22 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we published an article on the https://www.devex.com/news/development-finance-issues-to-watch-in-2024-106966. From fresh climate finance targets to the role that private capital mobilization can play in overcoming global development...This week we published an article on the development finance issues to watch in 2024. From fresh climate finance targets to the role that private capital mobilization can play in overcoming global development challenges, we discuss what we expect from the upcoming year and whether the ideas proposed will lead to tangible change in low-income countries.

On the topic of capital increase, at an event on Monday, World Bank President Ajay Banga discussed his plans to reform the way the institution runs, including speeding up project approvals and streamlining the International Development Association ahead of its replenishment this year. It is hoped that the reforms will help increase the capital needed to overcome development challenges.

Are the proposed reforms to the development finance architecture achievable? What is missing from the agenda?

To answer these questions and dig into these stories, as well as others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Global Nation co-founder Jonathan Glennie, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger, for the latest episode of our weekly podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2562development,financefalse34fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unrwa-engulfed-in-controversy-and-usaid-s-localization-efforts--58540986As we approach the U.S. presidential election in November, we take a look at how the Biden administration set out to change the U.S. government’s foreign aid system. With less than a year left in his term, we consider whether the targets set can be realistically achieved this year.

As USAID continues its effort to localize — or shift power to local organizations — we also dig into a report on the topic based on the feedback of 300 local organizations, international agencies, and USAID staff. The report outlined what needs to change for the agency to reach its localization goals.

Meanwhile in the Middle East, U.N. relief workers are being accused of having participated in the Hamas massacre that took place on Oct 7. The U.S. and other major donors have said they’ll cut funding to the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, or UNRWA, stripping people affected by the conflict in Gaza from vital funding.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with reporters Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest edition of the podcast series.
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58540986Fri, 02 Feb 2024 08:24:26 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentAs we approach the U.S. presidential election in November, we take a look at how the Biden administration set out to change the https://www.devex.com/news/can-biden-cement-a-foreign-aid-reform-legacy-106875. With less than a year left in his term, we...As we approach the U.S. presidential election in November, we take a look at how the Biden administration set out to change the U.S. government’s foreign aid system. With less than a year left in his term, we consider whether the targets set can be realistically achieved this year.

As USAID continues its effort to localize — or shift power to local organizations — we also dig into a report on the topic based on the feedback of 300 local organizations, international agencies, and USAID staff. The report outlined what needs to change for the agency to reach its localization goals.

Meanwhile in the Middle East, U.N. relief workers are being accused of having participated in the Hamas massacre that took place on Oct 7. The U.S. and other major donors have said they’ll cut funding to the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, or UNRWA, stripping people affected by the conflict in Gaza from vital funding.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with reporters Colum Lynch and Elissa Miolene for the latest edition of the podcast series.
Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1714biden,development,gaza,hamas,un,unrwa,usaidfalse33fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-facing-a-climate-breakdown-leaders-act-while-we-learn--58453725World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

Devex’s Raj Kumar sat down with several leaders to discuss how the climate crisis intersects with their work: Peter Sands, the executive director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Sophie Atiende, CEO of the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery; and Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity.

Together, they explore the interconnections between climate change and the issues they are focused on, as well as the urgency for action.

Sands describes a visit to northern Nigeria with Muhammad Ali Pate, the country’s minister of health and social welfare, where they saw “a shocking number” of children who were malnourished and severely ill with malaria.

“It’s a good example of how the climate change interaction is sort of multifactorial,” he said, explaining how climate change is harming agricultural productivity, leading to malnutrition, and changing the epidemiology of malaria.

“The combined impact of that is more severely ill children and more deaths of small children,” Sands said. “That's the kind of thing we're still trying to understand. But my view is we need to act while we learn. We can't wait for a perfect answer; we need to be doing more in anticipation of how we see this unfolding.”

Listen to the episode to hear more from Sands, Atiende, and Reckord, who joined Kumar for the Davos Dispatch podcast, recorded from WEF in Davos, Switzerland.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58453725Fri, 26 Jan 2024 09:20:11 +0000Devex | Global Development2023 was the hottest year on record. So it’s no surprise that the climate emergency was a big focus of last week’s https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-economic-forum-46616 annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland. Devex’s Raj Kumar sat down with...World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

Devex’s Raj Kumar sat down with several leaders to discuss how the climate crisis intersects with their work: Peter Sands, the executive director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Sophie Atiende, CEO of the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery; and Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity.

Together, they explore the interconnections between climate change and the issues they are focused on, as well as the urgency for action.

Sands describes a visit to northern Nigeria with Muhammad Ali Pate, the country’s minister of health and social welfare, where they saw “a shocking number” of children who were malnourished and severely ill with malaria.

“It’s a good example of how the climate change interaction is sort of multifactorial,” he said, explaining how climate change is harming agricultural productivity, leading to malnutrition, and changing the epidemiology of malaria.

“The combined impact of that is more severely ill children and more deaths of small children,” Sands said. “That's the kind of thing we're still trying to understand. But my view is we need to act while we learn. We can't wait for a perfect answer; we need to be doing more in anticipation of how we see this unfolding.”

Listen to the episode to hear more from Sands, Atiende, and Reckord, who joined Kumar for the Davos Dispatch podcast, recorded from WEF in Davos, Switzerland.]]>1538climate,davos,weffalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/preparing-for-future-pandemics-and-a-landmark-moment-in-global-health--58450574A new report reveals serious gaps in the clinical pipeline for diseases with pandemic potential, and limited investments in their research and development over the years. While research and development funding for COVID-19 reached over $14 billion from 2020 to 2022, the combined research funding for the other nine priority pathogens with pandemic potential identified by the World Health Organization total just $1.7 billion. We dig into the report — which comes from the International Pandemic Preparedness Secretariat — as well as how we could improve our preparedness for the next pandemic.

Despite the concerns about global pandemic preparedness, we have seen a landmark moment in the fight against malaria, with Cameroon becoming the first African country to roll out WHO's first recommended malaria vaccine into its routine immunization program.


This week also marked the 20th anniversary of the creation of the Millenium Challenge Corporation, or MCC, a U.S. aid agency which set out to help the lowest-income countries clinch large grants if they could turn their economic and social policies around and demonstrate good governance. However, concerns remain over where they can operate in the future based on their unique model.

For the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series, Devex President & Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sat down with Ayoade Alakija from AVDA/ACT-Accelerator and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to dig into these key stories.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58450574Thu, 25 Jan 2024 21:58:39 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentA https://www.devex.com/news/the-pipeline-for-pandemic-products-is-bare-here-s-why-it-matters-106948 serious gaps in the clinical pipeline for diseases with pandemic potential, and limited investments in their research and development over the years....A new report reveals serious gaps in the clinical pipeline for diseases with pandemic potential, and limited investments in their research and development over the years. While research and development funding for COVID-19 reached over $14 billion from 2020 to 2022, the combined research funding for the other nine priority pathogens with pandemic potential identified by the World Health Organization total just $1.7 billion. We dig into the report — which comes from the International Pandemic Preparedness Secretariat — as well as how we could improve our preparedness for the next pandemic.

Despite the concerns about global pandemic preparedness, we have seen a landmark moment in the fight against malaria, with Cameroon becoming the first African country to roll out WHO's first recommended malaria vaccine into its routine immunization program.


This week also marked the 20th anniversary of the creation of the Millenium Challenge Corporation, or MCC, a U.S. aid agency which set out to help the lowest-income countries clinch large grants if they could turn their economic and social policies around and demonstrate good governance. However, concerns remain over where they can operate in the future based on their unique model.

For the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast series, Devex President & Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sat down with Ayoade Alakija from AVDA/ACT-Accelerator and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to dig into these key stories.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2354aid,cameroon,covid19,davos,development,funding,grants,health,malaria,pandemic,whofalse32fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-financing-tech-solutions-in-africa--58419785
At the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024, Devex’s Raj Kumar sat down with three social entrepreneurs: Temie Giwa-Tubosun, CEO of LifeBank, a healthcare technology and logistics company delivering critical medical supplies, Gerald Abila, founder of BarefootLaw, a non-profit in Uganda providing access to justice through technology, and Mayur Patel, chief commercial officer at M-Kopa, an asset financing platform in Africa.

Their conversations point to several ways social entrepreneurs are using technology to address social challenges, as well as the crucial role financing must play in scaling their impact.
"The big barriers for growth are not demand,” Patel said. “They're not the scalability of the platform, or the opportunity. The big barriers to growth are figuring out how you solve the working capital cycle.”

Listen to the episode to hear more from Giwa-Tubosun, Abila, and Patel, who joined Kumar for the Davos Dispatch podcast, recorded from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58419785Tue, 23 Jan 2024 17:53:04 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThere are a growing number of social entrepreneurs using technology to address a range of development challenges in Africa, from agriculture healthcare to education. But many of them say that financing is the greatest barrier to scale. At the World...
At the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024, Devex’s Raj Kumar sat down with three social entrepreneurs: Temie Giwa-Tubosun, CEO of LifeBank, a healthcare technology and logistics company delivering critical medical supplies, Gerald Abila, founder of BarefootLaw, a non-profit in Uganda providing access to justice through technology, and Mayur Patel, chief commercial officer at M-Kopa, an asset financing platform in Africa.

Their conversations point to several ways social entrepreneurs are using technology to address social challenges, as well as the crucial role financing must play in scaling their impact.
"The big barriers for growth are not demand,” Patel said. “They're not the scalability of the platform, or the opportunity. The big barriers to growth are figuring out how you solve the working capital cycle.”

Listen to the episode to hear more from Giwa-Tubosun, Abila, and Patel, who joined Kumar for the Davos Dispatch podcast, recorded from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.]]>1503africa,davos,finance,weffalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-what-s-next-for-the-green-climate-fund--58403532United Nations Green Climate Fund. Its funding levels hit a record high following the climate conference COP 28, with several countries adding contributions to its second replenishment that sent the fund’s total soaring past its $10 billion goal to $12.8 billion.

GCF’s Executive Director Mafalda Duarte oversaw the replenishment after assuming the role only three months prior, having departed her previous job as the head of the Climate Investment Funds in June. Somewhere in there, she was also at the Africa Climate Summit, the U.N. General Assembly, and multiple other global engagements.

“Quite intense,” she acknowledged to Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar in Davos, Switzerland, the latest stop on her whirlwind travel agenda.But if Duarte has been busy, it’s because she’s making huge strides at an organization that was in a notably rocky place a few years ago. On this episode of Davos Dispatch, a series housed under our regular weekly podcast, This Week in Global Development, Duarte gives us the scoop on what’s next for GCF and its role in climate change mitigation and adaptation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58403532Mon, 22 Jan 2024 11:47:21 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIt’s a big moment for the https://www.devex.com/organizations/the-green-climate-fund-gcf-53335. Its funding levels hit a record high following the climate conference COP 28, with several countries adding contributions to its second replenishment that...United Nations Green Climate Fund. Its funding levels hit a record high following the climate conference COP 28, with several countries adding contributions to its second replenishment that sent the fund’s total soaring past its $10 billion goal to $12.8 billion.

GCF’s Executive Director Mafalda Duarte oversaw the replenishment after assuming the role only three months prior, having departed her previous job as the head of the Climate Investment Funds in June. Somewhere in there, she was also at the Africa Climate Summit, the U.N. General Assembly, and multiple other global engagements.

“Quite intense,” she acknowledged to Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar in Davos, Switzerland, the latest stop on her whirlwind travel agenda.But if Duarte has been busy, it’s because she’s making huge strides at an organization that was in a notably rocky place a few years ago. On this episode of Davos Dispatch, a series housed under our regular weekly podcast, This Week in Global Development, Duarte gives us the scoop on what’s next for GCF and its role in climate change mitigation and adaptation.]]>2046falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-update-from-the-world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-in-davos--58357418This week we are in Davos closely following the conversations taking place at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum. This year’s discussions have focused heavily on artificial intelligence and its potential impact on the humanitarian and development sectors. We also dig into our key takeaways from the conference, along with the question of whether we have reached a turning point when it comes to giving a voice to the global south.

In addition to AI, climate change also took center stage at the summit, and we contemplate whether this is an indication that leaders are recognizing the gravity of the situation and its link to issues around global health.

Will AI transform global development? And what impact will blockchain technology have on the sector?

For the latest edition of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sat down with Hedera Chief Policy Officer Nilmini Rubin and BRAC Executive Director Asif Saleh to discuss the top global development stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58357418Thu, 18 Jan 2024 22:32:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we are in Davos closely following the conversations taking place at the annual meeting of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-economic-forum-46616. This year’s discussions have focused heavily on artificial intelligence and its...This week we are in Davos closely following the conversations taking place at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum. This year’s discussions have focused heavily on artificial intelligence and its potential impact on the humanitarian and development sectors. We also dig into our key takeaways from the conference, along with the question of whether we have reached a turning point when it comes to giving a voice to the global south.

In addition to AI, climate change also took center stage at the summit, and we contemplate whether this is an indication that leaders are recognizing the gravity of the situation and its link to issues around global health.

Will AI transform global development? And what impact will blockchain technology have on the sector?

For the latest edition of our podcast series, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sat down with Hedera Chief Policy Officer Nilmini Rubin and BRAC Executive Director Asif Saleh to discuss the top global development stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1604ai,climate,davos,development,technology,weffalse31fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/davos-dispatch-making-billions-to-trillions-a-reality--58331973nearly a decade now. And yet there’s still an annual $4 trillion gap in financing for energy, water, and other critical development objectives.

Speaking to Devex’s Raj Kumar, Samaila Zubairu, CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation shared how his organization is leveraging public-private partnerships in “risky” countries such as Gabon and Djibouti, and what larger multilateral development banks should be doing to be more effective.

“What is most important is for us to introduce more urgency in our approach to work. We need to really start to focus on outcomes,” Zubairu said. “We should all be accountable. We should be looking at what's the baseline at a certain period of time, and what are we doing to cause improvements to happen.”

Zubairu joined Kumar for the Davos Dispatch podcast, recorded from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58331973Wed, 17 Jan 2024 16:10:20 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe “billions to trillions” narrative — the idea that a relatively small amount of public financing can be used to crowd in trillions of dollars in private capital to solve climate and other development challenges — has been discussed in development...nearly a decade now. And yet there’s still an annual $4 trillion gap in financing for energy, water, and other critical development objectives.

Speaking to Devex’s Raj Kumar, Samaila Zubairu, CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation shared how his organization is leveraging public-private partnerships in “risky” countries such as Gabon and Djibouti, and what larger multilateral development banks should be doing to be more effective.

“What is most important is for us to introduce more urgency in our approach to work. We need to really start to focus on outcomes,” Zubairu said. “We should all be accountable. We should be looking at what's the baseline at a certain period of time, and what are we doing to cause improvements to happen.”

Zubairu joined Kumar for the Davos Dispatch podcast, recorded from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.]]>1408davos,weffalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-insider-perspective-on-the-humanitarian-crisis-in-gaza--58269508
They reveal the obstacles they face — such as the lack of fuel and inability to keep in touch with staff — and how they try to meet the needs of those affected by the war.

What is the situation like on the ground? What are the misconceptions in the media?

To find out, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Managing Editor Anna Gawel sit down with Arnaud Quemin, Middle East-North Africa/Europe regional director for Mercy Corps, as well as Anera Regional Development Lead Saddam Sayyaleh for the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58269508Thu, 11 Jan 2024 22:14:47 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWhile a new year for many heralds a fresh start, the war that broke out in Gaza in October 2023 continues to rage, with the death toll numbering in the thousands. We take a look at the conflict from a global development and humanitarian lens by...
They reveal the obstacles they face — such as the lack of fuel and inability to keep in touch with staff — and how they try to meet the needs of those affected by the war.

What is the situation like on the ground? What are the misconceptions in the media?

To find out, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Managing Editor Anna Gawel sit down with Arnaud Quemin, Middle East-North Africa/Europe regional director for Mercy Corps, as well as Anera Regional Development Lead Saddam Sayyaleh for the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1823conflict,crisis,development,gaza,humanitarian,israel,palestine,warfalse30fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-to-expect-from-development-in-2024--58201041This Week in Global Development is back for its first episode of the New Year, and this week, we took a look ahead at what we can expect to come down the pike in 2024.

It’s an election year in the U.S., and bipartisanship is in short supply. Many of the legislative challenges of 2023—including those around foreign aid— are carrying into the new year, adding more pressure to a dam that’s already quite full. Republican presidential hopefuls are even going so far as to call for the defunding of the United Nations.

Luckily, not everything comes down to funding—we also discussed the U.S. Agency for International Development’s new Locally Led Programs indicator, which sets a standard for determining whether a given program can be considered, well, locally led.

Joining Devex’s President and Editor-in-Chief to break down these topics is Stefan Dercon, the former chief economist at the U.K. Department of International Development and current Professor of Economic Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel.

Welcome to 2024, and thanks for tuning in!

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58201041Thu, 04 Jan 2024 21:59:03 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis Week in Global Development is back for its first episode of the New Year, and this week, we took a look ahead at what we can expect to come down the pike in 2024. It’s an election year in the U.S., and bipartisanship is in short supply. Many of...This Week in Global Development is back for its first episode of the New Year, and this week, we took a look ahead at what we can expect to come down the pike in 2024.

It’s an election year in the U.S., and bipartisanship is in short supply. Many of the legislative challenges of 2023—including those around foreign aid— are carrying into the new year, adding more pressure to a dam that’s already quite full. Republican presidential hopefuls are even going so far as to call for the defunding of the United Nations.

Luckily, not everything comes down to funding—we also discussed the U.S. Agency for International Development’s new Locally Led Programs indicator, which sets a standard for determining whether a given program can be considered, well, locally led.

Joining Devex’s President and Editor-in-Chief to break down these topics is Stefan Dercon, the former chief economist at the U.K. Department of International Development and current Professor of Economic Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel.

Welcome to 2024, and thanks for tuning in!

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2013development,foreignaid,localization,usaidfalse29fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/key-takeaways-from-cop-28-and-usaid-s-localization-announcement--58016954Last week we traveled to Dubai to attend the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP 28, where apart from hosting our event on the sidelines of the main conference, we also reported on the negotiations taking place. We look back at the main takeaways from COP 28, including the pledges made by philanthropic organizations, and contemplate whether the commitments made by countries will be followed through.

While it is recognized that issues related to health, food, and energy are interconnected and linked to climate change, this understanding needs to be included within policies and future development strategies, experts tell us.

Following USAID’s announcement of the 14 measures it will use to track its target of having half of its projects be locally led by 2030, we debate whether it will successfully drive meaningful change, or just lead to tokenistic box-check efforts to localize. We also reported on the ongoing leadership crisis World Food Programme chief Cindy McCain is facing over the conflict in Gaza.

To dig into these stories and key takeaways from COP 28, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Larry Cooley, the president emeritus and senior adviser at Management Systems International, as well as GiveDirectly Vice President of Partnerships Yolande Wright, for the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast.

This is the final episode of the year. We will resume the podcast series in January. Thanks for listening!

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58016954Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:00:26 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week we traveled to Dubai to attend the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP 28, where apart from hosting our https://www.devex.com/news/getting-from-pledges-to-action-lessons-from-devex-s-cop-28-summit-106784, we also reported...Last week we traveled to Dubai to attend the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP 28, where apart from hosting our event on the sidelines of the main conference, we also reported on the negotiations taking place. We look back at the main takeaways from COP 28, including the pledges made by philanthropic organizations, and contemplate whether the commitments made by countries will be followed through.

While it is recognized that issues related to health, food, and energy are interconnected and linked to climate change, this understanding needs to be included within policies and future development strategies, experts tell us.

Following USAID’s announcement of the 14 measures it will use to track its target of having half of its projects be locally led by 2030, we debate whether it will successfully drive meaningful change, or just lead to tokenistic box-check efforts to localize. We also reported on the ongoing leadership crisis World Food Programme chief Cindy McCain is facing over the conflict in Gaza.

To dig into these stories and key takeaways from COP 28, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Larry Cooley, the president emeritus and senior adviser at Management Systems International, as well as GiveDirectly Vice President of Partnerships Yolande Wright, for the latest episode of our This Week in Global Development podcast.

This is the final episode of the year. We will resume the podcast series in January. Thanks for listening!

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2236climate,cop,cop28,development,gaza,usaidfalse28fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-update-from-cop-28-and-renewable-energy-in-the-developing-world--57938226This week we traveled to Dubai to follow the discussions at COP 28, the U.N. climate summit, and to find out what the outcomes of the negotiations could mean for the global development sector.

The first day saw the creation of a loss and damage fund designed to compensate the lowest-income nations most heavily affected by the negative impact of climate change. While the move is a step in the right direction, activists hope that the wealthiest and most-polluting nations will follow through on their pledges.

For countries such as Somalia — which is trying to bring in climate funding as it continues to battle drought and food insecurity — the fund could be a much-needed lifeline. With the country experiencing heavy rains and flooding that has affected some 1.7 million people and displaced nearly 700,000 from their homes, Somalia is relying more than ever on external support to face the crisis.

We also dug into the climate and health nexus. Recognizing the negative health impacts of climate change, this is the first year that a day has been dedicated to health on the COP agenda. Around $2.7 billion was also pledged to health initiatives linked to climate change. However, questions remain on how much of this is actually new funding.

During the discussion, we also identified the summit as an opportunity to encourage renewable energy investment in low- and middle-income countries, leapfrogging fossil fuels when bringing power to communities in the global south for the first time.

What do we make of COP 28? For this week’s episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Africa Climate Ventures Co-Founder and CEO James Mwangi, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Sara Jerving to discuss the conference and more.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57938226Thu, 07 Dec 2023 11:47:41 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we traveled to Dubai to follow the discussions at COP 28, the U.N. climate summit, and to find out what the outcomes of the negotiations could mean for the global development sector. The first day saw the creation of a loss and damage fund...This week we traveled to Dubai to follow the discussions at COP 28, the U.N. climate summit, and to find out what the outcomes of the negotiations could mean for the global development sector.

The first day saw the creation of a loss and damage fund designed to compensate the lowest-income nations most heavily affected by the negative impact of climate change. While the move is a step in the right direction, activists hope that the wealthiest and most-polluting nations will follow through on their pledges.

For countries such as Somalia — which is trying to bring in climate funding as it continues to battle drought and food insecurity — the fund could be a much-needed lifeline. With the country experiencing heavy rains and flooding that has affected some 1.7 million people and displaced nearly 700,000 from their homes, Somalia is relying more than ever on external support to face the crisis.

We also dug into the climate and health nexus. Recognizing the negative health impacts of climate change, this is the first year that a day has been dedicated to health on the COP agenda. Around $2.7 billion was also pledged to health initiatives linked to climate change. However, questions remain on how much of this is actually new funding.

During the discussion, we also identified the summit as an opportunity to encourage renewable energy investment in low- and middle-income countries, leapfrogging fossil fuels when bringing power to communities in the global south for the first time.

What do we make of COP 28? For this week’s episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Africa Climate Ventures Co-Founder and CEO James Mwangi, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Sara Jerving to discuss the conference and more.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1713climate,cop28,food,health,somaliafalse27fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/looking-ahead-to-cop-28--57866771The 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP 28, kicked off this Thursday. As with the summits in previous years, we arrive with the usual set of questions: Will pledges be met? Are the biggest polluters going to commit to support the most in need? Will the conference lead to meaningful change?

The first day saw an agreement reached over a loss and damage fund, with countries already making initial pledges, including the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Germany. However, many say that the amount committed is not enough given the size of the economies of these nations.

According to the U.N. Environment Programme, it is estimated that 80% of people displaced by climate change will be women. With a heavy focus on financial pledges, we contemplate whether the summit will deliver to meet the needs of women affected by the climate crisis.

We also discuss an article published this week on MacKenzie Scott's unconventional style of giving large, unrestricted gifts to nonprofits, which was criticized due to concerns over the ability of smaller, newer, and grassroots nonprofits being able to absorb such large amounts of funds.

To dig into these topics, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Daughters for Earth and Women for Women co-founder Zainab Salbi, who tunes in live from Dubai, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Michael Igoe, to discuss the top global development stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57866771Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:55:07 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe 2023 https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-un-41567 Climate Change Conference, or COP 28, kicked off this Thursday. As with the summits in previous years, we arrive with the usual set of questions: Will pledges be met? Are the biggest...The 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP 28, kicked off this Thursday. As with the summits in previous years, we arrive with the usual set of questions: Will pledges be met? Are the biggest polluters going to commit to support the most in need? Will the conference lead to meaningful change?

The first day saw an agreement reached over a loss and damage fund, with countries already making initial pledges, including the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Germany. However, many say that the amount committed is not enough given the size of the economies of these nations.

According to the U.N. Environment Programme, it is estimated that 80% of people displaced by climate change will be women. With a heavy focus on financial pledges, we contemplate whether the summit will deliver to meet the needs of women affected by the climate crisis.

We also discuss an article published this week on MacKenzie Scott's unconventional style of giving large, unrestricted gifts to nonprofits, which was criticized due to concerns over the ability of smaller, newer, and grassroots nonprofits being able to absorb such large amounts of funds.

To dig into these topics, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Daughters for Earth and Women for Women co-founder Zainab Salbi, who tunes in live from Dubai, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Michael Igoe, to discuss the top global development stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2375climate,cop,cop28,development,philanthropyfalse26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/views-from-the-ground-from-unpaid-workers-to-youtube-influencers--57676391
Sara Jerving’s exclusive story offers an object lesson on the importance of coordination and collaboration in large, sprawling development endeavors with multiple stakeholders. She reports on the Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative, which involved the Mastercard Foundation, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, and several other players such as implementers, government agencies, and auditors.

The result? Confusion about how workers in Nigeria — who were not given formal contracts when they were recruited — should be paid, leading to months’ worth of unpaid labor for some.
“This highlights a bigger program in our development space and that is, it shows that process is more important than people,” said George Ingram, senior fellow at the Brookings Center for Global Development. “It’s the green-eyeshade people who are important to ensure there’s not a lot of corruption, but they too often rule and interfere with having effective development, and donors and everybody needs to be willing to take a little more risk in order to get the development impact we’re looking for.”

Ingram joined Devex Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and me for a discussion that touched on other stories of the week, including the successes and challenges of cash transfers, the Green Climate Fund’s flagging efforts to simplify its application process, and the controversial efforts of YouTube sensation MrBeast to build water wells in Africa, which generated some blowback.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57676391Fri, 17 Nov 2023 09:38:12 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe latest edition of This Week in Development takes both a ground-level and 30,000-foot view of localization and the latest issues in development, ranging from unpaid workers in Nigeria to a YouTube influencer-turned-do-gooder to a climate fund...
Sara Jerving’s exclusive story offers an object lesson on the importance of coordination and collaboration in large, sprawling development endeavors with multiple stakeholders. She reports on the Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative, which involved the Mastercard Foundation, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, and several other players such as implementers, government agencies, and auditors.

The result? Confusion about how workers in Nigeria — who were not given formal contracts when they were recruited — should be paid, leading to months’ worth of unpaid labor for some.
“This highlights a bigger program in our development space and that is, it shows that process is more important than people,” said George Ingram, senior fellow at the Brookings Center for Global Development. “It’s the green-eyeshade people who are important to ensure there’s not a lot of corruption, but they too often rule and interfere with having effective development, and donors and everybody needs to be willing to take a little more risk in order to get the development impact we’re looking for.”

Ingram joined Devex Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and me for a discussion that touched on other stories of the week, including the successes and challenges of cash transfers, the Green Climate Fund’s flagging efforts to simplify its application process, and the controversial efforts of YouTube sensation MrBeast to build water wells in Africa, which generated some blowback.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2281false25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-hiccups-in-usaid-s-largest-ever-project-and-the-nuances-of-migration--57583644Ten years ago, the U.S. Agency for International Development unveiled the largest project in its history, hoping it would revolutionize health supply chains around the world to such an extent that it would be the last such contract of its kind. Devex Senior Reporter Michael Igoe details how these hopes were dashed in an investigative report that was the subject of the latest edition of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Speaking to Devex Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Fatema Sumar of Harvard’s Center for International Development, Igoe pulls back the curtain on the $9.5 billion contract, which was led by U.S.-based behemoth Chemonics International. His report — done in conjunction with the Bureau of Investigative Journalism — chronicles the early failings of the supply chain project, including a low point when a dismal 7% of shipments arrived at their destinations on time, forcing multiple countries to scramble as they ran short of lifesaving health products ranging from HIV/AIDS drugs to mosquito nets.

The three speakers also discussed the nuances of aid spending to curb migration and the progress — or lack thereof, depending on your perspective — of the hotly debated loss and damage fund to compensate vulnerable countries for the effects of climate change.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57583644Fri, 10 Nov 2023 09:22:11 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentTen years ago, the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096 unveiled the largest project in its history, hoping it would revolutionize health supply chains around the world to such an extent...Ten years ago, the U.S. Agency for International Development unveiled the largest project in its history, hoping it would revolutionize health supply chains around the world to such an extent that it would be the last such contract of its kind. Devex Senior Reporter Michael Igoe details how these hopes were dashed in an investigative report that was the subject of the latest edition of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Speaking to Devex Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar and Fatema Sumar of Harvard’s Center for International Development, Igoe pulls back the curtain on the $9.5 billion contract, which was led by U.S.-based behemoth Chemonics International. His report — done in conjunction with the Bureau of Investigative Journalism — chronicles the early failings of the supply chain project, including a low point when a dismal 7% of shipments arrived at their destinations on time, forcing multiple countries to scramble as they ran short of lifesaving health products ranging from HIV/AIDS drugs to mosquito nets.

The three speakers also discussed the nuances of aid spending to curb migration and the progress — or lack thereof, depending on your perspective — of the hotly debated loss and damage fund to compensate vulnerable countries for the effects of climate change.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2587aid,chemonics,climate,development,pepfar,usaidfalse24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/uncertainty-over-pepfar-s-future-and-controversy-around-unrwa--57486419The future of PEPFAR, the flagship United States global HIV/AIDS program credited with saving millions of lives over the past couple of decades, hangs in the balance due to an ongoing political stalemate and accusations that it funds abortion. This week we looked into what the uncertainty over its reauthorization means for organizations dependent on its funding.

The growing mistrust between the global north and global south is evident in a report on the world’s preparedness for the next pandemic from the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board. We also followed a panel discussion at the European Union’s Global Gateway Forum, which found that a patchwork of local regulations are the main obstacle to the EU's promises to shift health manufacturing to African countries.

Meanwhile, as the tragic conflict continues in Gaza, provide an update on the work and future of UNRWA, the agency which has emerged as the main source of aid to Palestinian civilians, sheltering more than 690,000 people who have been forced from their homes.

For the latest episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Jen Kates, senior vice president and director of global health and HIV policy at KFF, as well as Devex Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch, to discuss the top stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57486419Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:49:30 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe future of https://www.devex.com/organizations/u-s-president-s-emergency-plan-for-aids-relief-pepfar-48995, the flagship United States global HIV/AIDS program credited with saving millions of lives over the past couple of decades, hangs in the...The future of PEPFAR, the flagship United States global HIV/AIDS program credited with saving millions of lives over the past couple of decades, hangs in the balance due to an ongoing political stalemate and accusations that it funds abortion. This week we looked into what the uncertainty over its reauthorization means for organizations dependent on its funding.

The growing mistrust between the global north and global south is evident in a report on the world’s preparedness for the next pandemic from the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board. We also followed a panel discussion at the European Union’s Global Gateway Forum, which found that a patchwork of local regulations are the main obstacle to the EU's promises to shift health manufacturing to African countries.

Meanwhile, as the tragic conflict continues in Gaza, provide an update on the work and future of UNRWA, the agency which has emerged as the main source of aid to Palestinian civilians, sheltering more than 690,000 people who have been forced from their homes.

For the latest episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Jen Kates, senior vice president and director of global health and HIV policy at KFF, as well as Devex Senior Global Reporter Colum Lynch, to discuss the top stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1935africa,development,eu,gaza,health,israel,palestine,pepfar,usafalse23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-update-on-the-eu-s-global-gateway-project-and-osf-s-reorganization--57405073This week we attended SOCAP23 in San Francisco — a conference bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, and social impact leaders to discuss how progress can be accelerated against the world’s toughest challenges through market-based solutions — and have some key takeaways for the global development community.

In addition to taking a look at the International Finance Corporation’s push to invest in the creative industries and providing an update on OSF’s reorganization, we also released an exclusive story on the European Union’s “Global Gateway” project. Critics say the initiative is focused on Europe’s own interest in securing supplies of renewable energy and critical raw materials, as well as on preventing China from laying claim to the world’s digital infrastructure.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57405073Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:58:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we attended SOCAP23 in San Francisco — a conference bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, and social impact leaders to discuss how progress can be accelerated against the world’s toughest challenges through market-based solutions — and...This week we attended SOCAP23 in San Francisco — a conference bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, and social impact leaders to discuss how progress can be accelerated against the world’s toughest challenges through market-based solutions — and have some key takeaways for the global development community.

In addition to taking a look at the International Finance Corporation’s push to invest in the creative industries and providing an update on OSF’s reorganization, we also released an exclusive story on the European Union’s “Global Gateway” project. Critics say the initiative is focused on Europe’s own interest in securing supplies of renewable energy and critical raw materials, as well as on preventing China from laying claim to the world’s digital infrastructure.

To dig into these stories and others, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger for the latest episode of the podcast series.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1914africa,china,development,eu,finance,osf,socap23false22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-debt-crisis-in-the-mena-region--57352233data shows four MENA economies — Egypt, Tunisia, Bahrain, Jordan — are among the emerging markets most vulnerable to a debt crisis.

In a special podcast episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Niranjan Sarangi, a senior economic affairs officer in the shared economic prosperity cluster at the U.N. Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, and Sarah Saadoun, a senior researcher working on poverty and inequality at Human Rights Watch, for an in-depth discussion on the politics of economic reform in the MENA region.

Speaking on the sidelines of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund annual meetings in Marrakech, Morocco, they discuss what’s behind the current debt situation, how it’s affecting ordinary people’s lives, the impact of IFI programs on the expansion of social protection systems, and the region’s evolving climate finance needs.

This episode of This Week in Global Development is sponsored by Open Society Foundations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57352233Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:59:58 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentPublic debt across the Middle East and North Africa — or MENA — region is soaring. While debt vulnerability is a global phenomenon, recent https://twitter.com/ZiadMDaoud/status/1701172983635517730 shows four MENA economies — Egypt, Tunisia, Bahrain,...data shows four MENA economies — Egypt, Tunisia, Bahrain, Jordan — are among the emerging markets most vulnerable to a debt crisis.

In a special podcast episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Niranjan Sarangi, a senior economic affairs officer in the shared economic prosperity cluster at the U.N. Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, and Sarah Saadoun, a senior researcher working on poverty and inequality at Human Rights Watch, for an in-depth discussion on the politics of economic reform in the MENA region.

Speaking on the sidelines of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund annual meetings in Marrakech, Morocco, they discuss what’s behind the current debt situation, how it’s affecting ordinary people’s lives, the impact of IFI programs on the expansion of social protection systems, and the region’s evolving climate finance needs.

This episode of This Week in Global Development is sponsored by Open Society Foundations.]]>2923debt,development,imf,menafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-comes-after-the-world-bank-summit-and-eu-countries-overreport-aid--57317102In the latest episode of Devex’s podcast, we reflect on the World Bank annual meetings that took place in Marrakech, Morocco last week, and what reforms need to be made if the institution is to drive meaningful transformation in global development.

We discuss our exclusive story on the United States’ decision to freeze the delivery of thousands of metric tons of wheat to hungry Yemenis in order to pressure Houthi rebels to ensure the neediest get fed. We also dig into a study by AidWatch, which found that more than 22% of official development assistance declared by European Union countries last year was not real aid spent abroad, with spending going to hosting foreign students and Ukrainian refugees.

We also reported that the pharmaceutical industry is unhappy with the latest pandemic treaty draft due to the inclusion of intellectual property waivers in the text. Meanwhile, access advocates say the language around equity and intellectual property remains vague and weak on enforcement.

For this week’s episode, Devex President & Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Nation co-founder Jonathan Glennie to discuss the top stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57317102Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:04:20 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn the latest episode of Devex’s podcast, we reflect on the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 https://www.devex.com/news/devex-newswire-world-bank-meetings-go-out-with-an-inconclusive-bang-106397 that took place in Marrakech,...In the latest episode of Devex’s podcast, we reflect on the World Bank annual meetings that took place in Marrakech, Morocco last week, and what reforms need to be made if the institution is to drive meaningful transformation in global development.

We discuss our exclusive story on the United States’ decision to freeze the delivery of thousands of metric tons of wheat to hungry Yemenis in order to pressure Houthi rebels to ensure the neediest get fed. We also dig into a study by AidWatch, which found that more than 22% of official development assistance declared by European Union countries last year was not real aid spent abroad, with spending going to hosting foreign students and Ukrainian refugees.

We also reported that the pharmaceutical industry is unhappy with the latest pandemic treaty draft due to the inclusion of intellectual property waivers in the text. Meanwhile, access advocates say the language around equity and intellectual property remains vague and weak on enforcement.

For this week’s episode, Devex President & Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel and Global Nation co-founder Jonathan Glennie to discuss the top stories from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>2051finance,health,humanitarian,pandemic,pharmaceuticals,usa,yemenfalse21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/key-takeaways-from-the-world-bank-annual-meetings--57220206This week Devex reporters traveled to Marrakech, Morocco, to report on the highly anticipated World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings.

Ajay Banga, the World Bank’s new president, used the gathering as an opportunity to outline his priorities for the institution, which includes reforming the bank so that it can lend more efficiently and making it more impact-focused so that it will be in a better shape to request a capital increase.

While Banga called for increased collaboration between multilateral development banks and vowed to increase the financial institution’s lending capacity, civil society groups have been calling for it to release free money to countries already struggling with debt repayments.

For the latest episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel, who’s in Marrakech, to discuss what we learned from the annual meetings and what it means for the global development sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57220206Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:47:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week Devex reporters traveled to Marrakech, Morocco, to report on the highly anticipated World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings. Ajay Banga, the World Bank’s new president, used the gathering as an opportunity to...This week Devex reporters traveled to Marrakech, Morocco, to report on the highly anticipated World Bank-International Monetary Fund annual meetings.

Ajay Banga, the World Bank’s new president, used the gathering as an opportunity to outline his priorities for the institution, which includes reforming the bank so that it can lend more efficiently and making it more impact-focused so that it will be in a better shape to request a capital increase.

While Banga called for increased collaboration between multilateral development banks and vowed to increase the financial institution’s lending capacity, civil society groups have been calling for it to release free money to countries already struggling with debt repayments.

For the latest episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Managing Editor Anna Gawel, who’s in Marrakech, to discuss what we learned from the annual meetings and what it means for the global development sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters. ]]>1742banga,bank,development,financefalse20fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-us-government-avoids-a-shutdown-and-the-world-bank-s-big-plan--57097258Even though the U.S. government avoided a shutdown this week, serious concerns remain over whether lawmakers will be able to hammer out a federal budget for fiscal 2024 within the next 45 days, leaving the future funding of several development programs up in the air.

This week we also had an exclusive story on the $1.5 billion Saving Lives and Livelihoods Initiative, which was temporarily halted amid an audit due to several issues, including the failure to pay workers in Nigeria for months worth of work and missing contracts and receipts. The three-year program, launched by the Mastercard Foundation and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in 2021, is the largest public health partnership between a global philanthropic organization and an African institution and has employed more than 22,000 people.

Ahead of the World Bank annual meetings in Marrakech, Morocco, next week, we reported that the institution’s president, Ajay Banga, hopes to make available up to $125 billion additional lending over the next 10 years through reforms.

To dig into these stories, as well as to gain an update on PEPFAR’s potential reauthorization, tune in to the latest episode of the podcast. Devex President & EiC Raj Kumar sits down with Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger, as well as Olusoji Adeyi, the president of Resilient Health Systems and senior associate at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, to discuss the most important news this week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57097258Fri, 06 Oct 2023 08:01:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentEven though the U.S. government https://www.devex.com/news/devex-newswire-america-stays-open-to-development-s-relief-106306this week, serious concerns remain over whether lawmakers will be able to hammer out a federal budget for fiscal 2024 within the...Even though the U.S. government avoided a shutdown this week, serious concerns remain over whether lawmakers will be able to hammer out a federal budget for fiscal 2024 within the next 45 days, leaving the future funding of several development programs up in the air.

This week we also had an exclusive story on the $1.5 billion Saving Lives and Livelihoods Initiative, which was temporarily halted amid an audit due to several issues, including the failure to pay workers in Nigeria for months worth of work and missing contracts and receipts. The three-year program, launched by the Mastercard Foundation and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in 2021, is the largest public health partnership between a global philanthropic organization and an African institution and has employed more than 22,000 people.

Ahead of the World Bank annual meetings in Marrakech, Morocco, next week, we reported that the institution’s president, Ajay Banga, hopes to make available up to $125 billion additional lending over the next 10 years through reforms.

To dig into these stories, as well as to gain an update on PEPFAR’s potential reauthorization, tune in to the latest episode of the podcast. Devex President & EiC Raj Kumar sits down with Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger, as well as Olusoji Adeyi, the president of Resilient Health Systems and senior associate at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, to discuss the most important news this week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.
]]>2252africa,covid,development,finance,health,nigeria,pepfar,shutdown,usafalse19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-the-white-savior-complex-impacts-global-development--56982224Following the release of “White Savior,” a new HBO documentary series following Renee Bach, a white missionary who tasked herself with managing a clinic in Uganda with no medical training, we reflect on the idea of of white savior complex and its implications for the global development sector.

As well as discussing how to make localization initiatives more effective, we also delve into a Devex article that examines how the U.S. Agency for International Development can reach its localization goal of giving 25% of eligible funds to local partners by 2025.

For this episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by global strategy and development leader Nasra Ismail to dig into these stories and how they are intertwined when we consider how global development professionals can make meaningful change in lower-income countries.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56982224Thu, 28 Sep 2023 20:41:50 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFollowing the release of “White Savior,” a new HBO documentary series following https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2023/sep/25/white-savior-complex-documentary-tv-show-hbo-renee-bach, a white missionary who tasked herself with managing a clinic...Following the release of “White Savior,” a new HBO documentary series following Renee Bach, a white missionary who tasked herself with managing a clinic in Uganda with no medical training, we reflect on the idea of of white savior complex and its implications for the global development sector.

As well as discussing how to make localization initiatives more effective, we also delve into a Devex article that examines how the U.S. Agency for International Development can reach its localization goal of giving 25% of eligible funds to local partners by 2025.

For this episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by global strategy and development leader Nasra Ismail to dig into these stories and how they are intertwined when we consider how global development professionals can make meaningful change in lower-income countries.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2020development,documentary,hbo,uganda,usaidfalse18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-did-we-learn-at-the-78th-un-general-assembly--56938247Last week saw the annual gathering of heads of state, thought leaders, civil society members, development professionals, and other industry personalities in New York City for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

In addition to our very own Devex @ UNGA 78 summit that happened on the sidelines of the main event, we reported on the most important news affecting the drive to reach the Sustainable Development Goals as well as the United States push to reduce the U.N.’s role in the reform of the international financial system.

For this special episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with our resident U.N. expert Colum Lynch to discuss what we learned at UNGA 78, including the most surprising moments and the key outcomes from the summit.

You can also check out our special UNGA 78 roundup newsletter.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56938247Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:45:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week saw the annual gathering of heads of state, thought leaders, civil society members, development professionals, and other industry personalities in New York City for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. In addition to...Last week saw the annual gathering of heads of state, thought leaders, civil society members, development professionals, and other industry personalities in New York City for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

In addition to our very own Devex @ UNGA 78 summit that happened on the sidelines of the main event, we reported on the most important news affecting the drive to reach the Sustainable Development Goals as well as the United States push to reduce the U.N.’s role in the reform of the international financial system.

For this special episode of the podcast, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with our resident U.N. expert Colum Lynch to discuss what we learned at UNGA 78, including the most surprising moments and the key outcomes from the summit.

You can also check out our special UNGA 78 roundup newsletter.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1681development,un,unga,usafalse17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-episode-rebuilding-trust-in-the-un-system--56839497Open Society Foundations, and Richard Gowan, U.N. Director at Crisis Group, to discuss to what’s likely to come out of this year’s United Nations General Assembly, the trust deficit facing the multilateral system, and whether this global gathering is even fit for purpose anymore.

They also delve into the results of Open Society Foundations’ new poll on global public opinion towards human rights and democracy.

This episode of This Week in Global Development is sponsored by Open Society Foundations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56839497Mon, 18 Sep 2023 10:33:42 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentIn this special sponsored episode of This Week in Global Development, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar sits down with Natalie Samarasinghe, head of global advocacy at https://www.devex.com/organizations/open-society-foundations-osf-45109,...Open Society Foundations, and Richard Gowan, U.N. Director at Crisis Group, to discuss to what’s likely to come out of this year’s United Nations General Assembly, the trust deficit facing the multilateral system, and whether this global gathering is even fit for purpose anymore.

They also delve into the results of Open Society Foundations’ new poll on global public opinion towards human rights and democracy.

This episode of This Week in Global Development is sponsored by Open Society Foundations.]]>2354osf,un,ungafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/key-issues-to-watch-at-the-78th-un-general-assembly--56808838With the high-level general debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly taking place next week, leaders from around the world will be gathering in New York City to talk through some of the biggest issues facing societies around the world, including how we can best meet the Sustainable Development Goals and tackle the climate crisis.

For this week we have a special episode of the podcast, in which Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with our Global Reporter Colum Lynch.

From whether Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit will overshadow other global issues to increasing poverty rates around the world, they discuss the key talking points ahead of the summit.

Sign up to Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.

You can also register to attend in person or online Devex @ UNGA 78, our very own summit taking place on the sidelines of the most important discussions.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56808838Fri, 15 Sep 2023 08:07:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWith the high-level general debate of the 78th session of the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-nations-un-41567 General Assembly taking place next week, leaders from around the world will be gathering in New York City to talk through some of...With the high-level general debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly taking place next week, leaders from around the world will be gathering in New York City to talk through some of the biggest issues facing societies around the world, including how we can best meet the Sustainable Development Goals and tackle the climate crisis.

For this week we have a special episode of the podcast, in which Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with our Global Reporter Colum Lynch.

From whether Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit will overshadow other global issues to increasing poverty rates around the world, they discuss the key talking points ahead of the summit.

Sign up to Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.

You can also register to attend in person or online Devex @ UNGA 78, our very own summit taking place on the sidelines of the most important discussions.]]>1745development,sdgs,ukraine,un,unga,usafalse16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-end-fund-s-new-board-chair-and-the-uk-s-potential-oda-increase--56732684This week The END Fund announced Tsitsi Masiyiwa as the organization’s new board chair, with the aim of ushering in more African voices into discussions about increasing funding for neglected tropical diseases. During our conversation, we explored the role played by boards in influencing the work of philanthropic organizations.

In the United Kingdom, we reported that up to £2.68 billion ($3.37 billion) could be diverted back to aid programs overseas after the U.K. tightened its laws on refugees, which means it can no longer claim spending on asylum seekers as official development assistance.

To dig into these stories and others, I sat down with Anera President and CEO Sean Carroll, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel, for the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56732684Fri, 08 Sep 2023 07:51:33 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week The END Fund announced https://www.devex.com/news/tsitsi-masiyiwa-brings-local-approach-to-end-fund-as-new-board-chair-106109, with the aim of ushering in more African voices into discussions about increasing funding for neglected tropical...This week The END Fund announced Tsitsi Masiyiwa as the organization’s new board chair, with the aim of ushering in more African voices into discussions about increasing funding for neglected tropical diseases. During our conversation, we explored the role played by boards in influencing the work of philanthropic organizations.

In the United Kingdom, we reported that up to £2.68 billion ($3.37 billion) could be diverted back to aid programs overseas after the U.K. tightened its laws on refugees, which means it can no longer claim spending on asylum seekers as official development assistance.

To dig into these stories and others, I sat down with Anera President and CEO Sean Carroll, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel, for the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1708aid,development,philanthropy,refugees,ukfalse15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/usaid-s-staffing-shortages-and-country-owned-strategies-in-development--56658139This week Devex Climate Correspondent William Worley sat down with Meike van Ginneken, the Netherlands’ special envoy for water, who argued that we should be prioritizing investment to help overcome issues related to water shortages in the face of climate change rather than subsidizing fossil fuels.

In addition to looking back at our Devex Pro event with former senior USAID official Chuck Pope and digging into the agency’s localization targets, we also discussed an opinion piece written by former deputy assistant secretary at the U.S. Treasury Department Nancy Lee, who outlines why country-owned strategies will be key to achieving development goals.

To find out more about these stories, make sure to check out the latest episode of the podcast, where I sit down with Larry Cooley, president emeritus and senior adviser at Management Systems International, to discuss the past week's top stories from the global development sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56658139Fri, 01 Sep 2023 07:54:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week Devex Climate Correspondent William Worley sat down with Meike van Ginneken, the Netherlands’ special envoy for water, who argued that we should be...This week Devex Climate Correspondent William Worley sat down with Meike van Ginneken, the Netherlands’ special envoy for water, who argued that we should be prioritizing investment to help overcome issues related to water shortages in the face of climate change rather than subsidizing fossil fuels.

In addition to looking back at our Devex Pro event with former senior USAID official Chuck Pope and digging into the agency’s localization targets, we also discussed an opinion piece written by former deputy assistant secretary at the U.S. Treasury Department Nancy Lee, who outlines why country-owned strategies will be key to achieving development goals.

To find out more about these stories, make sure to check out the latest episode of the podcast, where I sit down with Larry Cooley, president emeritus and senior adviser at Management Systems International, to discuss the past week's top stories from the global development sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1908climate,development,localization,usa,waterfalse14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/open-society-foundations-reorganization-and-world-water-week--56587623For the latest episode of the podcast, I am joined by global strategy and development leader Nasra Ismail and Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth to discuss the top stories in global development, including insights into Open Society Foundations’ reorganization.

This week we learned that USAID’s NextGen global health supply chain contracts, which collectively are worth $16.8 billion over 10 years, are being delayed. We discuss the possible reasoning behind this, as well as its potential impact.

We are also joined by Devex Climate Correspondent Will Worley live from Stockholm, who provided an update on the World Water Week conference happening in the Swedish capital.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56587623Fri, 25 Aug 2023 08:53:48 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFor the latest episode of the podcast, I am joined by global strategy and development leader Nasra Ismail and Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth to discuss the top stories in global development, including insights...For the latest episode of the podcast, I am joined by global strategy and development leader Nasra Ismail and Devex Business Editor David Ainsworth to discuss the top stories in global development, including insights into Open Society Foundations’ reorganization.

This week we learned that USAID’s NextGen global health supply chain contracts, which collectively are worth $16.8 billion over 10 years, are being delayed. We discuss the possible reasoning behind this, as well as its potential impact.

We are also joined by Devex Climate Correspondent Will Worley live from Stockholm, who provided an update on the World Water Week conference happening in the Swedish capital.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2088development,osf,stockholm,usaid,waterfalse13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/u-s-and-allies-block-key-un-agreement-and-germany-s-aid-cuts--56437270This week we broke an exclusive story on the United States, the United Kingdom, and a handful of allied powers blocking an agreement on a draft declaration that advocates the need to accelerate progress on a set of critical development goals, throwing a spanner into high-level negotiations ahead of the United Nations General Assembly taking place next month.

In the United Kingdom, an inquiry has been told that development assistance rules are denying “vulnerable” small island developing states, or SIDS, the help they need to combat the climate emergency as they are classified as “too rich” to receive funding. The U.K. government also received strong criticism for its aid being used to fund the training of soccer referees and coaches across China, even as spending reductions are predicted to lead to thousands of deaths this year across Africa and Yemen.

However, the U.K. is not the only country planning aid cuts. Germany’s ruling coalition has proposed to reduce its aid budget by proposing a 5% cut for 2024, setting off alarm bells in development circles.

For the latest episode of the podcast, I was joined by University of Oxford professor Stefan Dercon and Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss the past week’s important stories from global development.

Please note that we will not be recording an episode next week due to the Devex Summer Break. We will be back in two weeks’ time to continue bringing you the top stories from the sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56437270Fri, 11 Aug 2023 07:46:19 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we brokehttps://www.devex.com/news/exclusive-us-allies-block-major-un-development-declaration-106006 on the United States, the United Kingdom, and a handful of allied powers blocking an agreement on a draft declaration that advocates the...This week we broke an exclusive story on the United States, the United Kingdom, and a handful of allied powers blocking an agreement on a draft declaration that advocates the need to accelerate progress on a set of critical development goals, throwing a spanner into high-level negotiations ahead of the United Nations General Assembly taking place next month.

In the United Kingdom, an inquiry has been told that development assistance rules are denying “vulnerable” small island developing states, or SIDS, the help they need to combat the climate emergency as they are classified as “too rich” to receive funding. The U.K. government also received strong criticism for its aid being used to fund the training of soccer referees and coaches across China, even as spending reductions are predicted to lead to thousands of deaths this year across Africa and Yemen.

However, the U.K. is not the only country planning aid cuts. Germany’s ruling coalition has proposed to reduce its aid budget by proposing a 5% cut for 2024, setting off alarm bells in development circles.

For the latest episode of the podcast, I was joined by University of Oxford professor Stefan Dercon and Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss the past week’s important stories from global development.

Please note that we will not be recording an episode next week due to the Devex Summer Break. We will be back in two weeks’ time to continue bringing you the top stories from the sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.
]]>2021china,development,germany,soccer,ukfalse12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/usaid-s-record-breaking-localization-push-and-the-impact-of-uk-aid-cuts--56366355This week Devex reported that the U.S. Agency for International Development saw a record-breaking obligation to local contractors in 2022, up 169.8% in real terms from the previous year. While this is promising, it will be vital to ensure that initiatives are not tokenistic and that localization efforts are indeed meeting the needs of the communities they are aiming to serve rather than ticking development boxes.

In the United Kingdom, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office admitted that thousands of people “in acute humanitarian need” will die unnecessarily from hunger, poor health care, and during pregnancy because of ongoing aid cuts.

At the World Bank, Ajay Banga received some backlash from employees as he announced that while he would like to maintain a flexible workplace, he wants staff in the office more than three days a week. The institution’s staff association argued that the announcement was rushed, with no guidance on how to apply this new “flexibility” and that managers were not consulted.

Are localization efforts heading in the right direction? Will having staff back at the office benefit the World Bank? To answer these questions and others from the past week, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by George Ingram, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, as well as Spark MicroGrants CEO and co-founder Sasha Fisher for the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Sign up to Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56366355Fri, 04 Aug 2023 07:49:37 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week Devex reported that the https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096 saw a record-breaking obligation to local contractors in 2022,...This week Devex reported that the U.S. Agency for International Development saw a record-breaking obligation to local contractors in 2022, up 169.8% in real terms from the previous year. While this is promising, it will be vital to ensure that initiatives are not tokenistic and that localization efforts are indeed meeting the needs of the communities they are aiming to serve rather than ticking development boxes.

In the United Kingdom, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office admitted that thousands of people “in acute humanitarian need” will die unnecessarily from hunger, poor health care, and during pregnancy because of ongoing aid cuts.

At the World Bank, Ajay Banga received some backlash from employees as he announced that while he would like to maintain a flexible workplace, he wants staff in the office more than three days a week. The institution’s staff association argued that the announcement was rushed, with no guidance on how to apply this new “flexibility” and that managers were not consulted.

Are localization efforts heading in the right direction? Will having staff back at the office benefit the World Bank? To answer these questions and others from the past week, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by George Ingram, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, as well as Spark MicroGrants CEO and co-founder Sasha Fisher for the latest episode of the This Week in Global Development podcast.

Sign up to Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2145development,localization,uk,usaidfalse11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-uk-s-refugee-bill-and-a-call-to-fight-hiv-and-aids--56259266While we usually expect the summer months to be slower than usual, it has certainly not been the case over the past week. In an exclusive Devex story, we found out that the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development will most likely declare that the United Kingdom cannot legally spend its overseas development assistance on domestic refugee costs because of a new law cracking down on arrivals.

In 2022 the country spent £3.7 billion — 29% of its ODA budget — domestically, exploiting OECD rules that allow the allocation of refugees’ hotel and other bills as ODA for 12 months.

On the other side of the pond, the United States’ bipartisan foreign affairs budget is set to be tangled up in debates around the country’s domestic cultural wars and its competition abroad with China.

To make sense of these stories, as well as UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director Angeli Achrekar’s call to keep the fight against HIV and AIDS on the political agenda, I sat down with Global Nation co-founder Jonathan Glennie and Harvard Center for International Development Executive Director Fatema Sumar for this week’s podcast episode.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56259266Fri, 28 Jul 2023 07:59:48 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWhile we usually expect the summer months to be slower than usual, it has certainly not been the case over the past week. In https://www.devex.com/news/exclusive-uk-to-be-stopped-from-spending-aid-budget-on-arriving-refugees-105973, we found out that...While we usually expect the summer months to be slower than usual, it has certainly not been the case over the past week. In an exclusive Devex story, we found out that the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development will most likely declare that the United Kingdom cannot legally spend its overseas development assistance on domestic refugee costs because of a new law cracking down on arrivals.

In 2022 the country spent £3.7 billion — 29% of its ODA budget — domestically, exploiting OECD rules that allow the allocation of refugees’ hotel and other bills as ODA for 12 months.

On the other side of the pond, the United States’ bipartisan foreign affairs budget is set to be tangled up in debates around the country’s domestic cultural wars and its competition abroad with China.

To make sense of these stories, as well as UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director Angeli Achrekar’s call to keep the fight against HIV and AIDS on the political agenda, I sat down with Global Nation co-founder Jonathan Glennie and Harvard Center for International Development Executive Director Fatema Sumar for this week’s podcast episode.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2138aids,china,development,hiv,refugees,uk,usafalse10fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-latest-from-women-deliver-who-rotation-and-brac-localization--56174382This week we’re closely following the conversations that took place at the Women Deliver conference in Kigali, Rwanda, which brought together thousands of people from diverse fields to help elevate women’s voices and accelerate the drive toward achieving gender equality.

We also delve into whether hosting conferences and headquartering development organizations in the global south is an effective tool to drive the localization agenda, and we touch on the World Health Organization’s postponement of its plan to require staff to rotate to different duty stations every several years.

To dig into these topics and get the latest on our coverage of Women Deliver, for episode nine of the This Week in Global Development podcast series I talk to Devex Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Larry Cooley, president emeritus and senior adviser at Management Systems International.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56174382Fri, 21 Jul 2023 07:29:52 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week we’re closely following the conversations that took place at the Women Deliver conference in Kigali, Rwanda, which brought together thousands of people from diverse fields to help elevate women’s voices and accelerate the drive toward...This week we’re closely following the conversations that took place at the Women Deliver conference in Kigali, Rwanda, which brought together thousands of people from diverse fields to help elevate women’s voices and accelerate the drive toward achieving gender equality.

We also delve into whether hosting conferences and headquartering development organizations in the global south is an effective tool to drive the localization agenda, and we touch on the World Health Organization’s postponement of its plan to require staff to rotate to different duty stations every several years.

To dig into these topics and get the latest on our coverage of Women Deliver, for episode nine of the This Week in Global Development podcast series I talk to Devex Senior Reporter Sara Jerving and Larry Cooley, president emeritus and senior adviser at Management Systems International.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1916brac,development,localization,who,womenfalse9fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ai-adoption-s-risk-and-rewards-and-a-us-aid-agency-returns-to-office--56099128This year is seeing the proliferation of AI technology in our lives, which is having a big effect on the way many of us carry out our daily tasks in the workplace. From improving disaster response to helping address environmental challenges, the new technology has a huge potential to have a positive impact on global development. During our conversation, we discuss the risks and opportunities that lie in adopting AI.

Following the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s decision to bring back staff to their offices, we also delve into the topic of remote work and the potential direction the sector may head in, especially when taking into account that humanitarian missions are often in distant places far away from an organization’s headquarters.

For episode eight of the This Week in Global Development podcast series, I sat down with Anera President and CEO Sean C. Carroll, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss the top stories from the sector from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56099128Fri, 14 Jul 2023 07:53:04 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis year is seeing the proliferation of AI technology in our lives, which is having a big effect on the way many of us carry out our daily tasks in the workplace. From improving disaster response to helping address environmental challenges, the new...This year is seeing the proliferation of AI technology in our lives, which is having a big effect on the way many of us carry out our daily tasks in the workplace. From improving disaster response to helping address environmental challenges, the new technology has a huge potential to have a positive impact on global development. During our conversation, we discuss the risks and opportunities that lie in adopting AI.

Following the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s decision to bring back staff to their offices, we also delve into the topic of remote work and the potential direction the sector may head in, especially when taking into account that humanitarian missions are often in distant places far away from an organization’s headquarters.

For episode eight of the This Week in Global Development podcast series, I sat down with Anera President and CEO Sean C. Carroll, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss the top stories from the sector from the past week.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2257ai,development,technologyfalse8fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/who-s-updated-malnutrition-guidance-and-china-s-plan-to-cut-un-funding--56023773World Health Organization released its long-awaited updated guidance on the prevention and management of malnutrition in children, which aims to reduce child mortality through starvation by widening access to treatment worldwide.

For this episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Matthias Berninger, the senior vice president for public affairs and sustainability at Bayer, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Teresa Welsh to discuss the recommendations.

They also dig into how Russia’s war in Ukraine is negatively affecting food supplies in low- and middle-income countries and discuss China’s decision to cut funding to the United Nations.


Don’t forget to follow Food Secured, our series that explores innovative ideas for a more sustainable and resilient food and agriculture sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56023773Fri, 07 Jul 2023 07:52:21 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentLast week, the https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-health-organization-who-30562 released its long-awaited updated guidance on the https://www.devex.com/news/who-releases-updated-malnutrition-treatment-guidelines-105817 in children, which aims...World Health Organization released its long-awaited updated guidance on the prevention and management of malnutrition in children, which aims to reduce child mortality through starvation by widening access to treatment worldwide.

For this episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Matthias Berninger, the senior vice president for public affairs and sustainability at Bayer, as well as Devex Senior Reporter Teresa Welsh to discuss the recommendations.

They also dig into how Russia’s war in Ukraine is negatively affecting food supplies in low- and middle-income countries and discuss China’s decision to cut funding to the United Nations.


Don’t forget to follow Food Secured, our series that explores innovative ideas for a more sustainable and resilient food and agriculture sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1679china,development,food,russia,un,whofalse7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/financial-inclusion-takes-a-hit-amid-rising-debt-and-high-interest-rates--55575503High interest rates are threatening the gains made in financial inclusion over the past decade, with investors backing off riskier investments especially in inclusive fintech, as reported by Devex’s Shabtai Gold this week. While some regions have achieved robust progress — such as India, where nearly 80% of adults now have a bank account — others are lagging behind. Over half the population of sub-Saharan Africa, or about 530 million people, are still unbanked.

Meanwhile French President Emmanuel Macron’s global financing summit, which aimed to address rising debt burdens and high interest rates, wrapped up at the end of last week with mixed outcomes, as covered by Devex Brussels Correspondent Vince Chadwick. The summit ended with a number of strong interventions from leaders in Africa and Latin America who challenged Western governments on inequitable global governance structures and called for a transformation of the financial system.

This week, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Reuben Abraham, the CEO at Artha Global, and Nasra Ismail, a policy adviser and ICAP Aspen fellow, to discuss these stories and more.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/55575503Fri, 30 Jun 2023 08:37:41 +0000Devex | Global Developmenthttps://www.devex.com/news/how-high-interest-rates-threaten-reversal-on-financial-inclusion-gains-105784 in financial inclusion over the past decade, with investors backing off riskier investments especially in inclusive fintech, as reported by...High interest rates are threatening the gains made in financial inclusion over the past decade, with investors backing off riskier investments especially in inclusive fintech, as reported by Devex’s Shabtai Gold this week. While some regions have achieved robust progress — such as India, where nearly 80% of adults now have a bank account — others are lagging behind. Over half the population of sub-Saharan Africa, or about 530 million people, are still unbanked.

Meanwhile French President Emmanuel Macron’s global financing summit, which aimed to address rising debt burdens and high interest rates, wrapped up at the end of last week with mixed outcomes, as covered by Devex Brussels Correspondent Vince Chadwick. The summit ended with a number of strong interventions from leaders in Africa and Latin America who challenged Western governments on inequitable global governance structures and called for a transformation of the financial system.

This week, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Reuben Abraham, the CEO at Artha Global, and Nasra Ismail, a policy adviser and ICAP Aspen fellow, to discuss these stories and more.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>2072false6fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-insider-look-at-macron-s-global-financing-summit--54835094French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting the Summit for a New Global Financial Pact in Paris this week, which aims to strike a new post-World War II pact between high-income nations and those most at risk from climate change and crippling debt.

However, with key players not attending, including U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, U.S. President Joe Biden, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serious doubts remain over whether the decisions made during the summit will translate into meaningful action. There are also major disagreements between French organizers and participants over reforming international institutions, including multilateral development banks.

For this special episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar talks to Brussels correspondent Vince Chadwick, connecting from the French capital, to get an insider perspective on the discussions happening at the summit.

The conversation also touches on Vince’s interview with Peter Sands, the head of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, who argues that innovative financial instruments and private sector mobilization should not be a “proxy” for giving money to help the world’s poorest.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54835094Fri, 23 Jun 2023 08:48:24 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentFrench President Emmanuel Macron is hosting the Summit for a New Global Financial Pact in Paris this week, which aims to strike a new post-World War II pact between high-income nations and those most at risk from climate change and crippling debt....French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting the Summit for a New Global Financial Pact in Paris this week, which aims to strike a new post-World War II pact between high-income nations and those most at risk from climate change and crippling debt.

However, with key players not attending, including U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, U.S. President Joe Biden, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serious doubts remain over whether the decisions made during the summit will translate into meaningful action. There are also major disagreements between French organizers and participants over reforming international institutions, including multilateral development banks.

For this special episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar talks to Brussels correspondent Vince Chadwick, connecting from the French capital, to get an insider perspective on the discussions happening at the summit.

The conversation also touches on Vince’s interview with Peter Sands, the head of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, who argues that innovative financial instruments and private sector mobilization should not be a “proxy” for giving money to help the world’s poorest.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>1435false5fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/usaid-s-localization-update-and-controversy-over-uk-aid--54456213USAID released its long-awaited localization update. Despite the progress made, not least due to the success of the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, the agency is yet to come close to reaching its target of spending 25% of funding on local organizations by 2025.

From the U.K. government reclaiming official development assistance via taxes to India’s renewable energy push threatening the country’s food security, the past week has been filled with controversies that have the potential to hinder the drive toward meaningful change.

Tune in to the latest episode of This Week in Development to hear our take on the issues.
For this episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Dr. Jen Kates, senior vice president and director of global health & HIV policy at KFF, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss the most important news from the past week in the global development sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54456213Fri, 16 Jun 2023 08:33:20 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThis week https://www.devex.com/organizations/united-states-agency-for-international-development-usaid-45096 released its https://www.devex.com/news/usaid-s-localization-push-has-a-long-way-to-go-agency-s-report-says-105716. Despite the progress made,...USAID released its long-awaited localization update. Despite the progress made, not least due to the success of the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, the agency is yet to come close to reaching its target of spending 25% of funding on local organizations by 2025.

From the U.K. government reclaiming official development assistance via taxes to India’s renewable energy push threatening the country’s food security, the past week has been filled with controversies that have the potential to hinder the drive toward meaningful change.

Tune in to the latest episode of This Week in Development to hear our take on the issues.
For this episode, Devex President and Editor-in-Chief Raj Kumar is joined by Dr. Jen Kates, senior vice president and director of global health & HIV policy at KFF, as well as Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel to discuss the most important news from the past week in the global development sector.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters.]]>1675false4fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-unexpected-struggle-to-reauthorize-pepfar-and-a-new-world-bank-era--54147956struggle to reauthorize PEPFAR continues and we mark the beginning of a new era at the World Bank with Ajay Banga’s presidency, the start of the month has most definitely been eventful.

From discussing what to expect from Banga’s presidency to a deep dive into a two-month investigation concerning the Africa CDC president Dr Jean Kaseya, we review the week’s top stories in the latest episode of This Week in Global Development.

For this episode, Devex president and editor-in-chief, Raj Kumar, is joined by Devex managing editor Anna Gawel, as well as George Ingram, senior fellow at the The Brookings Institution.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters:
https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54147956Fri, 09 Jun 2023 08:47:08 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentWhile usually during the summer period news is expected to slow down, it was certainly not the case for the first couple of days of June. As the unexpected...struggle to reauthorize PEPFAR continues and we mark the beginning of a new era at the World Bank with Ajay Banga’s presidency, the start of the month has most definitely been eventful.

From discussing what to expect from Banga’s presidency to a deep dive into a two-month investigation concerning the Africa CDC president Dr Jean Kaseya, we review the week’s top stories in the latest episode of This Week in Global Development.

For this episode, Devex president and editor-in-chief, Raj Kumar, is joined by Devex managing editor Anna Gawel, as well as George Ingram, senior fellow at the The Brookings Institution.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters:
https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>1709false3fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-future-of-localization-and-the-humanitarian-development-nexus--53699156Although it was initially a good idea to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, this framework has struggled to deliver amidst the increasing number of humanitarian disasters and prolonged crises. Recently, Devex's Teresa Welsh discussed the cracks surfacing in the "humanitarian-development nexus."

This week, another global development topic made headlines when USAID Administrator Samantha Power informed the U.S. Congress that the agency would find it difficult to achieve its localization targets, as reported by Adva Saldinger on Devex.

To make sense of these and other significant news stories of the week, tune in to This Week in Global Development.

This weekly podcast analyzes the major headlines in global development and invites top experts to help us understand them. In this week's episode, Raj Kumar, devex president and editor-in-chief, is joined by Nasra Ismail, policy adviser and ICAP Aspen fellow, and Anna Gawel, Devex managing editor.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53699156Sun, 30 Apr 2023 19:29:49 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentSeven years ago, the United Nations' World Humanitarian Summit proposed the "humanitarian-development nexus" to improve collaboration between the two ends of the aid sector. Although it was initially a good idea to enhance efficiency and reduce...Although it was initially a good idea to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, this framework has struggled to deliver amidst the increasing number of humanitarian disasters and prolonged crises. Recently, Devex's Teresa Welsh discussed the cracks surfacing in the "humanitarian-development nexus."

This week, another global development topic made headlines when USAID Administrator Samantha Power informed the U.S. Congress that the agency would find it difficult to achieve its localization targets, as reported by Adva Saldinger on Devex.

To make sense of these and other significant news stories of the week, tune in to This Week in Global Development.

This weekly podcast analyzes the major headlines in global development and invites top experts to help us understand them. In this week's episode, Raj Kumar, devex president and editor-in-chief, is joined by Nasra Ismail, policy adviser and ICAP Aspen fellow, and Anna Gawel, Devex managing editor.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>1847false2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-to-make-of-this-year-s-world-bank-spring-meetings--53557124World Bank and International Monetary Fund’s Spring Meetings have come to an end this weekend. A great sense of change was anticipated for this year’s event, as Devex wrote last week.

But what do we make of the talks now that they are over? That’s the question we asked our guests in the first episode of “This Week in Global Development,” a weekly podcast where we break down the big headlines in global development and bring in top experts to help us do it.

For this episode, Devex president and editor-in-chief, Raj Kumar, is joined by Rachel Kyte, the dean at The Fletcher School at Tufts University, and Jeremy Hillman, senior vice president of external engagement at the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53557124Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:45:38 +0000Devex | Global DevelopmentThe https://www.devex.com/organizations/world-bank-group-38382 and https://www.devex.com/organizations/international-monetary-fund-imf-44300’s Spring Meetings have come to an end this weekend. A great sense of change was anticipated for this year’s...World Bank and International Monetary Fund’s Spring Meetings have come to an end this weekend. A great sense of change was anticipated for this year’s event, as Devex wrote last week.

But what do we make of the talks now that they are over? That’s the question we asked our guests in the first episode of “This Week in Global Development,” a weekly podcast where we break down the big headlines in global development and bring in top experts to help us do it.

For this episode, Devex president and editor-in-chief, Raj Kumar, is joined by Rachel Kyte, the dean at The Fletcher School at Tufts University, and Jeremy Hillman, senior vice president of external engagement at the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters]]>1856false1full