It may seem like there aren’t many reasons to remain optimistic in 2019, but this isn’t completely true. Our January Development press review casts a glance over the last months of 2018 and gives you a taste of what’s coming.
[OPINION] COP24 revealed what little time is left to curb climate change. But the way investments on clean energy are flourishing worldwide suggests that many people haven’t given up hope quite yet. Greentechs developed by Earth-conscious start-ups and research for alternative fuels are still happening in 2019.
“ Six reasons to be optimistic about Earth’s 2019 ” , Forbes, 24 December 2018
[ARTICLE] Leaks from fuel lobby groups aiming at avoiding increases of the EU’s 2030 climate and energy targets, a COP24 sponsored by coal companies… Recent events have brought to light how important it is to keep big polluters as far away from policy-makers as possible. Our survival is at stake.
“ COP24: vital to keep big polluters away from climate policy ” , EU Observer, 10 December 2018
The results of the presidential elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are finally known: Felix Tshisekedi won, over favored opponent Martin Fayulu. But the former president Joseph Kabila may actually be the real victor here, as several sources evoke a possible deal with Tshisekedi
“ Why Kabila may be real victor of DRC’s contested election ” , The Guardian, 11 January 2019
[ARTICLE] We are 17 years into the War on Terrorism declared by former US president George W Bush in retaliation to the 9/11 attacks. Now labelled the “Forgotten War”, it is still very much active despite the fall in terrorist activities identified in 2018. Here is an overview.
“ An Endless war on terrorism ” , Ahram, 7 January 2019
[ARTICLE] A new analysis found that the oceans are heating up 40% faster on average that a United Nations panel estimated five years ago, with disastrous consequences. “Oceans are the best thermometer we have for changes in the Earth”, states Zeke Hausfather, author of the study.
“ Ocean warming is accelerating faster than thought, new research finds ” , The New York Times, 10 January 2019
[REPORT] Early 2018 hopes are far gone now. The outlook for the global economy in 2019 has darkened. According to World Bank Chief Executive Officer, its lost speed could jeopardize “the world’s progress in reducing extreme poverty”.
“ Storm clouds are brewing for the global economy ” , The World Bank, 8 January 2019
[VIDÉO] The current American president would rather have the longest shutdown in his country’s history than negotiate with U.S.-Mexico wall opponents. As many debate the ethics and the usefulness of said wall, its effects on the fauna and flora shouldn’t be overlooked.
“ U.S.-Mexico Border Wall: Are Animals at Risk? ” , National Geographic, 12 December 2018
About this publication
Discover each month on ID4D the “Development News”, with a brief overview of a topical issue, and the “Press review”, with a selection of web articles, reflections and analyses.
