Skydance Agrees to Eliminate DEI at Paramount for $8 Billion Deal

Skydance Media Pledges to Eliminate DEI Policies as Part of Merger with Paramount Global

Skydance Media, a prominent entertainment company in the process of acquiring Paramount Global for approximately $8 billion, has made a formal commitment to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to remove all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies and practices from Paramount. This decision is part of an effort to gain approval for the merger under the Trump administration’s executive orders.

In a letter sent to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, a representative from Skydance stated that the company will dismantle existing DEI programs at Paramount. This move aligns with President Donald Trump's January executive order, which directs federal agencies to "enforce our long-standing civil-rights laws and to combat illegal private-sector DEI preferences, mandates, policies, programs, and activities."

This action comes after Paramount and its subsidiary, CBS News, had already begun discontinuing their DEI initiatives earlier this year. These steps followed the executive order and a major lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed by a former employee, claimed unlawful discrimination, alleging that they were repeatedly passed over for promotions in favor of less-experienced candidates from minority groups. Both Paramount and CBS News settled the case.

The FCC filing outlines the elimination of several DEI practices, including:

• Setting "aspirational goals related to hiring female employees and employees of color."
• Awarding annual bonuses based on "progress against DEI goals."
• Establishing minimum spend requirements for "diverse" suppliers and vendors.
• Maintaining an Office of Global Inclusion dedicated to promoting DEI within the company.

Stephanie Kyoko McKinnon, general counsel for Skydance, stated in the filing, "The company is committed to ensuring that its storytelling reflects the many audiences and communities it serves in a manner that complies with non-discrimination requirements and other applicable laws."

Broader Trend Among Corporations

This strategic shift by Skydance reflects a broader trend among major corporations responding to the Trump administration's policies. Earlier this year, T-Mobile announced it would "no longer have any individual roles or teams focused on DEI," and in May, Verizon also stated it was scrapping its DEI programs.

Beyond the elimination of DEI programs, Skydance has also pledged to promote "unbiased journalism" and a "diverse array of viewpoints on television" under the proposed merger. This commitment follows a $36 million payment from Paramount to President Donald Trump, settling a lawsuit in which the president alleged CBS manipulated a "60 Minutes" interview featuring former Vice President Kamala Harris prior to the 2024 election.

Addressing Concerns of Bias

To further address concerns of bias, Skydance has committed to establishing an ombudsman position for a minimum of two years. This ombudsman will be responsible for reviewing any complaints of bias related to CBS reporting.

"After consummation of the proposed transaction, New Paramount’s new management will ensure that the company’s array of news and entertainment programming embodies a diversity of viewpoints across the political and ideological spectrum, consistent with the varying perspectives of the viewing audience," McKinnon affirmed in the filing. The FCC's decision on the $8 billion merger is now pending.

Skydance's actions signal a significant shift in corporate policy and reflect the ongoing debate around DEI initiatives in the United States. As the merger moves forward, the impact on media representation and journalistic integrity remains a topic of intense discussion.

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Bong County Launches Fiscal Decentralization Training with MFDP and Partners

The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), with assistance from global partners, has officially initiated a three-day Fiscal Decentralization and Financial Management Training in Gbarnga, Bong County.

Gbarnga, Bong County, July 17, 2025: The event, themed "Empowerment of Local Government Officials Through Financial Management and Budget Disaggregation," has gathered more than 60 local government representatives from Bong, Nimba, Grand Bassa, and Margibi Counties. The session is a component of continuous national initiatives aimed at enhancing local capabilities for accountable governance and improved public service delivery.

The program emphasizes key domains such as Budget Breakdown, Budget Implementation and Documentation, Revenue Distribution Laws and Rules, and Application of the Local Government Act

These elements are crucial for improving how municipal authorities design, distribute, utilize, and disclose public finances. As Liberia moves towards a more decentralized administrative structure, these competencies will be important in maintaining openness, responsibility, and public confidence.

Mr. Anthony G. Myers, the Deputy Minister of Fiscal Affairs, gave the official opening speech, underlining the significance of the initiative in boosting local financial independence. He stressed that enabling counties with effective fiscal management is essential for long-term development.

"By enhancing the financial management skills of our local officials, we are laying the groundwork for more efficient and effective governance. Counties need to be capable of planning, implementing, and reporting on their budgets on their own while still adhering to national objectives," Myers said.

He also encouraged attendees to treat the training with due seriousness, emphasizing that the effectiveness of Liberia's decentralization strategy largely relies on the preparedness and expertise of local stakeholders.

Additionally, Prof. Alaric Tokpah, Acting Chairman of the Governance Commission, addressed the event, commending the MFDP and its collaborators for their prompt action. He emphasized once more that decentralization is not just an option in policy but a constitutional requirement that facilitates public involvement in decision-making and the distribution of resources.

"It is essential to keep fostering cooperation between national and local government bodies. Without teamwork and mutual accountability, the vision of successful decentralization will stay out of reach," emphasized Prof. Tokpah.

Officials from major development partners such as the European Union (EU), Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also participated in the meeting. Each organization emphasized their firm dedication to Liberia's decentralization and governance transformation initiatives.

Robust, responsible, and effective local governments are crucial for Liberia's sustained development objectives," said a representative from one of the partners. "We are honored to be involved in this program aimed at strengthening capabilities, enabling local leaders to assist their communities more effectively.

Offering a detailed summary of the training, Dr. Rome D.N. Gbartea, Director of Fiscal Decentralization at MFDP, stated that the sessions are practical and focused on finding solutions. He mentioned that the objective is to enable participants to implement the tools and knowledge directly within their respective counties.

"This is more than just academic information. We offer practical tools and hands-on skills that attendees can use right away and bring back with them. Our aim is to minimize waste, increase responsibility, and boost the efficiency of services at the community level," Dr. Gbartea highlighted.

Modules are designed to tackle typical issues encountered by county officials, including insufficient knowledge of national financial frameworks, late allocation of funds, and inadequate reporting mechanisms.

Individuals from all four countries received the training positively, considering it both relevant and impactful. They highlighted that the sessions tackle critical issues related to financial planning, implementation, and adherence to regulations.

One participant from Grand Bassa County stated, 'This training will assist us in gaining a clearer understanding of how to handle and report on our budgets, as well as how to interact with citizens in a more open and accountable manner.'

Some highlighted the need to expand this training across the country to maintain consistent capabilities in every local government.

The program is a component of the government's larger initiatives to enforce the Local Government Act of 2018, which requires the progressive shift of power, control, and financial duties from the national administration to local authorities. Although some advancements have been achieved, complete execution of the Act is still in development, facing obstacles due to insufficient capabilities and operational difficulties.

This effort seeks to bridge those gaps by offering hands-on resources and recommendations for local officials. Attendees are encouraged to create action strategies that match their specific county requirements, detailing how to implement the acquired knowledge in practical situations.

The introduction of this Fiscal Decentralization and Financial Management Training represents another significant step in Liberia's path toward establishing a more responsive and inclusive governance structure. With ongoing assistance from development partners and firm political dedication from the central government, the chances for local development, service provision, and democratic involvement are steadily increasing.

As the workshop continues, participants stay optimistic that the training will result in better-informed, responsible, and stronger local government bodies, which are essential for national stability and long-term development. -Edited by Othello B. Garblah.

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India's 2036 Olympics Medal Plan Unveiled at Khelo Bharat Conclave

New Delhi [India], July 17 (ANI): Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports,Mansukh Mandaviya, on Thursday, detailed India's plan to emerge as the leading nation in terms of medal count at the 2036 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.

At the Khelo Bharat Conclave, participants included representatives from the National Sports Federations, the Paralympic Committee of India, the Indian Olympic Association, various institutions, leading corporate entities, and prominent figures in Indian sports administration. They engaged in a full-day discussion focused on positioning India as a global sporting power by 2047, as stated by the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

The dynamic gathering addressed multiple core areas outlined in theKhelo Bharat Niti2025 (sports policy). Discussions focused on the significance of effective governance and the forthcoming Bill set to be introduced during the Monsoon session of Parliament beginning on July 21.

While competitors continue to be the central focus of theKhelo Bharat Niti, the government has emphasized the part that National Sports Federations, state governments, and corporate entities must take to enable India to rank within the top 10 countries in the 2036 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.

Mandaviya stated, "Sports is a collective effort. We can establish objectives and attain them only through collaboration. Our Prime Minister, Modiji, consistently emphasizes unity in sports, and we must set aside our egos, concentrate on thorough planning, and transform those plans into meaningful results."

Participants at the six-hour Khelo Bharat conference all agreed that the government's policy was ambitious and a genuine effort to reach international sports standards. Each presentation was followed by interactive discussions, during which various stakeholders provided recommendations that were noted down by senior ministry officials.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports,Raksha Nikhil Khadse, said the Khelo Bharat Nitiwas developed following an analysis of the "real-world conditions" and "obstacles" encountered in Indian sports. The government spent over a year creating the document, which underwent multiple revisions after extended consultations with important parties.

"Now we have a chance to leverage sports and through the implementation of this comprehensive strategy, India can excel in the entertainment sector, create employment opportunities, and truly guide the youth of India," stated Khadse.

Mandaviya has placed the responsibility on the National Sports Federations to take charge and initiate the process of effective governance with urgency. "We need to immediately evaluate our current status and where we aim to be. Initially, I request the NSFs to submit a five-year policy by August, after which we can create a 10-year strategy. With the Asian Games scheduled for 2026, we require a comprehensive approach since our goal is not only to secure medals at the Olympics but also to transform sports into a commercial asset, inviting the world to compete in India and promoting sports tourism in Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir."

Although the importance of effective governance was highlighted, there were intense debates on creating quality coaches, training competent sports administrators, promoting the sports goods industry, and addressing the issue of doping. The sports ministry's "nation-first" strategy has called for a strong commitment from national sports federations and encouraged sports organizations to outline "three good governance initiatives" by August 29, theNational Sports Day.

The achievement of putting into practice theKhelo Bharat NitiIt depends on the effectiveness of our implementation of the initiatives. We are pleased to offer full support to National Sports Federations, but moving forward, we will consider performance-based funding. This approach will ensure that we remain focused and committed to our planning and management of the sport," said Mandaviya.

The ministry requested NSFs to maintain a proper schedule of events to ensure athletes avoid logistical problems.

Towards a Viksit BharatThe sports ministry is concentrating on a three-tiered integrated talent development pyramid, beginning with schools and culminating in the planned Olympic Training Centres. The government has already presented a five-year strategy (2026-27 to 2030-31), which will start with residential sports schools engaging over 16,500 students. These students will have the chance to advance to the intermediate level (over 6,500) and eventually move to the elite category, which will support more than 1,300 aspiring international medal contenders.

Mandaviya has highlighted the importance of states in the process of nation-building. Considering the vast challenge of transforming India's vision into a leading force in global sports, the government has proposed entering into agreements with states, schools, and corporations as needed to achieve sustainable outcomes. (ANI)

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

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From Slogan to Action: Mahama's Revived Drive for Progress

By Constance Gbedzo

In my earlier article, which was featured in the B&FT on Thursday, 18th April 2024, titled 'The Cost of Following Poor Corporate Governance Practices for the People of Ghana', I aimed to bring to the attention of Ghanaian leaders Section 36 (1) within the Directive Principles of State Policy and Economic Objectives, which states that 'the State must take all necessary measures to ensure that the national economy is managed in a way that maximizes economic growth and ensures the greatest possible well-being, freedom, and happiness for every individual in Ghana, while also providing sufficient means of subsistence, suitable employment, and public support for those in need'.

It was clear at that time that 'the state has truly let its people down.' 'Leadership, over the years, has promised the youth hope but delivered despair instead.' 'It seems that Ghana is functioning without a clear objective, which is why we continually lose direction in bringing about social and economic progress for the people.' 'Those responsible for managing the Ghanaian economy have made the issues more complicated than they need to be.' There was a strong appeal that 'they must simplify Ghana's development programs to focus on the productive parts of the economy and make more careful decisions.' 'Clearly, we need to establish our nation's purpose. This purpose determines the level of our shared commitment to accomplish something, living with a plan, aiming for a goal, and striving to achieve that plan.'

Nevertheless, it is becoming evident that in a political environment frequently marked by grand promises and broken commitments, His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama seems resolved to change the story.

Having recently assumed office for a non-consecutive second term in January 2025, Mahama has quickly begun transforming his campaign promises into tangible initiatives, showcasing a fresh dedication to tackling Ghana's significant economic and social issues. The belief that "the leader truly matters" is strongly reinforced by the initial steps taken by President Mahama.

His rapid shift from campaign pledges to concrete policy execution, especially regarding the 24-Hour Economy, highlights a forward-thinking and outcome-focused strategy that could greatly influence Ghana's socio-economic development.

In numerous ways, the President's early actions demonstrate the significance of strong leadership.

• Translating Vision into Action:The 24-Hour Economy played a key role in his election platform. The official launch occurring only a few months into his presidency, along with comprehensive policy papers and an advisory panel, indicates a strong determination to go beyond mere talk. This swift action demonstrates a leader who is resolute and dedicated to fulfilling his pledges.
• Strategic Economic Overhaul:President Mahama highlighted that the 24-Hour Economy is not merely about increasing working hours, but rather a broad strategy aimed at boosting productivity, creating more opportunities, and speeding up exports through carefully planned and inclusive measures, making it a multi-dimensional approach. It involves tax breaks, reduced electricity rates, expedited regulatory approvals, and better access to financing for businesses that operate continuously. This holistic method, intended to enhance productivity, exports, and employment, reflects thoughtful planning and an awareness of the interrelated nature of economic elements. The initiative seeks to drive economic expansion, generate high-income jobs, and increase Ghana's competitiveness globally. It is expected to influence several sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and public entities with significant customer volumes like ports and harbors.
• Addressing Core Economic Challenges:Mahama's emphasis on sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and export diversification tackles Ghana's prolonged dependence on unprocessed commodity exports. The creation of anAccelerated Export Development Advisory Panel, led by the President personally, highlights this dedication, with an objective to increase Ghana's non-traditional export revenues from $3.5 billion per year to a minimum of $10 billion by 2030. Clearly, President Mahama is establishing challenging yet quantifiable goals that, if met, could significantly reshape Ghana's economic and social environment.
• Financial Accountability and Tax Policy Changes:The removal of unliked taxes such as the E-Levy, betting tax, and emissions tax, as mentioned in his administration's 2025 budget, offers real support to individuals and companies. Although this poses a difficulty for generating income, it also shows an openness to public opinion and a desire to reduce the pressure on regular Ghanaians. The implementation of new financial guidelines, such as an Independent Fiscal Council and a limit on debt, further demonstrates a dedication to prudent economic management.
• Prioritizing Social Welfare:In addition to economic renewal, Mahama's government is showing a forward-thinking approach towards social welfare and leadership. The swift focus on older adults, such as initiatives to enhance the pension system and improve the National Health Insurance Scheme, reflects a leader who values social support systems and the respect due to the elderly. Bringing back free sanitary products for female students and increasing access to education also show this dedication.
• Future Goals and Organizational Development:President Mahama has assigned the newly established 8th National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) the responsibility of merging current long-term development strategies into a single, consistent plan that goes beyond political terms. This initiative mirrors Ghana's first President Kwame Nkrumah's idea for sustained national progress, seeking to decrease dependence on raw materials and promote lasting growth. The goal is to ensure stability and consistency in national development, regardless of shifts in leadership, showcasing a sophisticated and progressive approach.
• International Engagement:In keeping with his longstanding dedication to social justice, President Mahama has also been a strong voice on the global stage. In February 2025, during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly, he urged unified efforts regarding reparations for historical wrongs experienced by Africans and people of African heritage, in line with the AU’s Agenda 2063. This highlights a wider perspective that goes beyond national boundaries, establishing Ghana as a leader in tackling regional challenges. His clear readiness to support pan-African causes enhances Ghana's standing internationally.

Although Ghana continues to face major challenges such as ongoing economic difficulties and the necessity for debt restructuring, President Mahama's first few months in power show a strong commitment to moving past empty promises. His government's emphasis on practical execution, forming strategic alliances, and adopting a comprehensive strategy for national progress indicates a genuine attempt to meet the expectations of Ghanaians. The shift "from slogan to action" demands firm political resolve, effective team formation, and a well-defined plan, all of which appear to be characteristics of the President's current strategy. The upcoming months will certainly assess the success of these efforts, but the initial signs point to a leader dedicated to tangible actions rather than just empty words.

At heart, President John Mahama's initial steps in his second term reveal a leader who is not only clear in his vision but also deeply involved in the complex aspects of putting policies into action. Although the ultimate effectiveness of these efforts is yet to be determined, the early showing of leadership in turning pledges into real strategies is a strong sign that the leader does make a difference.

As a business development specialist and social entrepreneur, my recommendation to Ghanaians is that President John Mahama's efforts, especially the 24-Hour Economy, offer a major chance for us to enhance our economic situation and support national growth. To make the most of these policies, individuals, business owners, and companies should be active and plan wisely.

It is essential to remain updated, take part in national discussions, build connections and work together, adopt digital changes, and maintain financial responsibility. By actively involving themselves and gaining a clear understanding of President Mahama's programs, Ghanaians can place themselves in a position to gain personal advantages while also making a substantial contribution to the country's economic renewal and development.

The author is an expert in Risk and Enterprise Development.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).

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GTYA Praises Ghana's Informal Sector Revenue Plan; Calls for Economic Reforms

The head of Green Tax Youth Africa (GTYA), Mr. Nii Addo, has praised the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for their courageous and well-planned initiatives in tackling Ghana's persistent revenue collection challenge within the informal sector.

If implemented effectively and with adequate backing, the new policies have the potential to significantly enhance Ghana's financial capacity and direction of growth, given that more than 80% of the nation's revenue prospects are linked to this area.

Mr. Nii Addo characterized the action as "well-timed and forward-thinking," highlighting that it demonstrates a robust governmental reaction to persistent demands from interested parties to introduce innovations and expand the tax base for more fair and inclusive domestic resource generation, which should ultimately reduce the pressure on the formal sector.

This policy approach represents a positive move forward. The informal sector continues to be the foundation of Ghana's economy and its potential for generating revenue. Enhancing tax adherence within this area can greatly reduce the budget shortfall and promote equitable growth, said Mr. Addo.

Nevertheless, GTYA calls on the government to support these initiatives with essential macroeconomic reforms aimed at protecting low-income individuals, especially young people and women, from increasing inequality. Mr. Addo highlighted recent increases in utility bills and rising fuel prices, which place a heavier burden on essential consumers and weaken household stability.

Key Economic Strategy Suggestions from GTYA

1. GTYA urges the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the government to update the quarterly electricity increase system, which has widened the inequality gap and impacted essential consumers, particularly in low-income areas.
2. Increasing fuel costs, resulting from high taxes and charges, have widespread impacts on transportation, goods, and service provision. GTYA suggests limiting all fuel-related taxes and charges to GH¢1.50 at the pump, as currently being done, to offer financial support and enable citizens to benefit from Ghana's oil resources.
3. GTYA urges the government to reclaim every cedi that was improperly obtained by individuals with political influence and public officials, whose unaccounted wealth implies the improper use of state assets. These resources should be channeled towards initiatives focused on public development.
4. Ghana suffers significant financial losses each year due to corporate tax avoidance, manipulation of transfer pricing, and other illegal capital movements. The government needs to enhance regulatory and tax management frameworks, improve transparency regarding beneficial ownership, and enforce severe consequences for multinational tax exploitation.
5. GTYA cautions that too many tax breaks and exemptions, particularly for foreign companies, are depleting government funds. These measures should be reviewed and connected to specific socio-economic performance metrics, such as job generation, knowledge sharing, and involvement of local resources.

6. Ghana holds the position of the 12th most costly nation in Africa, meaning the government needs to act quickly

   respond to the high cost of utilities, rent, food, and transportation, which continue to be essential but expensive

   unaffordable for many.

7. GTYA supports progressive tax measures aimed at wealthy individuals, such as taxes on private jet users, those traveling in first class, and cargo shipping companies, in line with suggestions from the Financing for Development Conference held in Seville, Spain, on June 30th, 2025.
8. These "environmental levies" can support climate resilience and technological advancement efforts while promoting financial fairness.

Call to Action

Mr. Addo ended by calling on civil society organizations, academic institutions, private sector leaders, and international development partners to assist the government in creating a fairer and stronger financial system, based on fairness, effectiveness, and long-term viability.

"The real test of effective economic policy lies in its effect on the everyday lives of regular people. If citizens don't experience relief within six months of being put into action, we need to go back and adjust our approaches. Ghana needs to meet this challenge," Mr. Addo said.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

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Path to a Brighter Future

Today, I will concentrate on the necessity of increased financial transfers from the wealthy North to the South - especially during a period when President Trump and the United States, along with numerous other Western nations, are cutting back on aid. I will contend that these transfers need to increase and take various forms, with multinational corporations and the broader private sector actively involved - for social, health, climate change, and other reasons, as well as to support overall growth and a more equitable distribution of wealth in developing countries. There is still much to be done, albeit late, since the end of the Colonial era, and since the United Nations' and the West's efforts to establish a New International Economic Order (NIEO) in the 1970s. The initiative was managed by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), founded in 1964, but despite good intentions, the effort did not succeed; the Geneva-based organization remains, albeit quietly; its significant goals and work should be reinvigorated. Last week, however, it hosted the '4th International Conference on Financing for Development' (FFD4) in Seville, Spain, where a comprehensive plan for a better world was adopted.

The Norwegian Minister for Development Cooperation, Åsmund Aukrust, was a prominent speaker at the conference held in Sevilla. He stated, "The world has never been wealthier - so why does poverty still exist?" In an article co-authored with Lisetta Trebbi, the Acting Director General of NORAD, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, published in 'Panorama Nyheter' in Oslo on 03.07.25, additional details and topics were discussed. The article highlights that in a world marked by conflict, climate change, and rising costs, it's easy to believe we can't afford more spending. However, the authors argue the opposite, citing data from the 'Global Wealth Report,' which indicates that global savings now exceed USD 500,000 billion—enough to eliminate extreme poverty multiple times over. "There are resources available, but they are being diverted away from developing nations," Aukrust and Trebbi write.

The difference between what is required to achieve the UN's sustainable development goals and the actual funding being provided is greater than ever. Each year, there is a shortfall of USD 4-5 trillion—equal to one percent of global private savings. Meanwhile, wealthy nations are reducing their development aid budgets. What explains this situation? The key contradiction lies in the use of tax havens, secret fund transfers, and the growing accumulation of wealth, according to Aukrust and Trebbi.

In the concluding declaration of the meeting, titled 'Compromiso de Sevilla', four key actions were outlined as part of a plan aimed at creating a fairer world for the poorest nations. First, there is a need to boost development assistance. Second, efforts should be made to enhance tax collection capabilities and systems in developing countries, with support from donor nations. Third, the private sector should contribute more positively to the development of these countries, rather than acting against their interests. At times, private enterprises require more stability for future activities, which might necessitate assurances from donor countries. Fourth, new mechanisms must be established to manage the substantial debts of developing countries, including debt cancellation. Several nations allocate more funds to debt repayment than they do to their own education and healthcare budgets.

Aukrust and Trebbi mention in their article that the Sevilla summit offers renewed optimism regarding development funding. 192 UN member nations continue to back these initiatives, despite the USA withdrawing from the process a few weeks ago. 'The Sevilla declaration sends a strong message: A different world is still achievable. Now, it's time for words to translate into action, and Norway will remain at the forefront,' the two Norwegian officials in charge of development aid state. Norway played a crucial role during the twelve-month preparatory phase for the conference, alongside Mexico, Nepal, and Zambia, with input from the remaining UN member states, NGOs, and the private sector.

I hold a more skeptical view regarding the implementation compared to Aukrust and Trebbi, and there isn't much novel in the pledges either—similar to UNCTAD's proposals for a New International Economic Order in the 1970s. Well, perhaps the increased involvement of the private sector is somewhat new. However, there is minimal specific information from Sevilla regarding what donor nations will actually do and how they plan to deliver aid, including the scale and methods of improving collaboration with developing countries. I am convinced that significant changes are necessary; otherwise, only limited progress will be observed—and just as in my younger days, when we had high hopes for UNCTAD and the NIEO, this will end up being merely a 'Sevilla dream.'

There is a need for a historical analysis alongside a future projection, highlighting the errors made by wealthy nations but also explaining how they, too, will gain from establishing a more equitable global order, among other things, regarding migration and the development of vibrant and optimistic local environments for everyone. This certainly implies improved, less corrupt, and genuinely democratic governance within developing countries. In many instances, new institutions must be established in these countries to manage the increased international transfers, involving governments, NGOs, and both local and international private sectors, including major multinational corporations. A new structure with shared local and international leadership is essential to build trust among people in both the North and the South in the new system and its implementation.

In relation to a Conference of the Parties (COP) summit several years back, a new framework for significant financial transfers aimed at addressing climate change and environmental crises was introduced, which also included compensation for past exploitation of developing nations by developed ones. A key element was that wealthy nations should take responsibility for rectifying past and ongoing errors. This is commendable, yet it appears that very little has been accomplished in terms of achieving these objectives, including the establishment of a substantial fund. At the most recent conference, COP29, held in Azerbaijan in November last year, both participation and media attention were reduced compared to previous gatherings. Despite the promising Sevilla concepts, their outcome might mirror that of the COP initiatives, similar to how the UNCTAD and NIEO ideas of the 1970s ultimately failed. I could be mistaken about the future of COP or the Sevilla roadmap. Nevertheless, specific actions are necessary to ensure success.

Who will make the necessary efforts to bring the Sevilla ideas to life? The first thought is the group that was involved in organizing the conference, particularly Norway, which was the sole donor country in the group, along with the UNCTAD offices in Geneva. It's time to stop making grand promises and raising unrealistic expectations. This approach is counterproductive to building trust in development assistance, which currently has a poor reputation due to high costs and limited outcomes. We need a new and significantly increased level of development aid, as well as entirely new methods of implementation. Recipient countries should take the lead, with donors playing a supporting role. People in developing nations experience the need for improvements in social and economic conditions daily. Rich countries also require a moral revival, not only for their own citizens but also because they cannot continue to expand their military budgets at the current rate. We all need to consider and carry out positive actions on the path toward creating the better world we all desire.

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East Africa: From Policies to Progress – Empowering Women Now

By Joyce Ojanji

When the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) funded- Growth and Economic Opportunities for Women (GrOW) East Africa initiative began, the challenge was clear. Across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Rwanda, millions of women faced the same barriers: unpaid care work, gender-segregated labour markets, and locked-out procurement opportunities. The initiative promised something different, evidence that could break these cycles.

For five years, fifteen research teams across the region spent years generating evidence, crafting policies, and proving what works for women’s economic empowerment. The GrOW East Africa chapter has now closed, and the evidence is overwhelming. Now comes the part that determines whether the five years of work will transform lives or gather dust.

The results speak volumes.

In Tanzania, women’s participation in public procurement jumped from 12% to 85% after targeted training. In Uganda, market-based childcare centres freed up women’s time for income-generating activities. In Kenya, the Kidogo childcare model not only empowered women entrepreneurs but also sparked the creation of Nakuru County’s first Child Care Facilities Act.

Each of the fifteen GrOW projects delivered policy wins. Some influenced national frameworks. Others shaped county-level regulations. A few triggered international conversations about unpaid care work and gender-based labour market segregation.

Patricia Wekulo from the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) smiled as she recounted Kenya’s journey. ‘’Nakuru County had no clear policy framework for childcare facilities before our study. Now they have legislation.’’

In Tanzania, Vivian Mkaazi, a senior researcher at the Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF), watched government officials participate directly in training sessions with women entrepreneurs. ‘’The Ministry of Gender embraced the project. They wanted to own it.’’

As experts rightfully noted, evidence and policies are only the beginning. During the GrOW End-of-Project Workshop held in Nairobi, Kenya, stakeholders came together not just to celebrate successes, but to interrogate what it will take to move from research to real change.

The answer, according to many, is clear: political will. Without it, all the evidence generated risks gathering dust on shelves. As Dr. Annet Mulema, senior program officer at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), rightfully put it, without strong implementation, policies remain promises.

Gilbert Sendugwa, Executive Director of Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC)raised the question that hung over the entire workshop.

‘’What I would have loved to hear more about is how the political will was mobilized within these projects. Because that is needed everywhere. The how of mobilizing political will and maintaining it through the implementation phase—I would have loved to know more, knowing there are implementation gaps after policy creation,” he said.

According to Sendugwa, political will is not just about getting leaders to sign documents; it is about motivating them to take action, sustained commitment through budget cycles, administrative changes, and competing priorities. It is about enforcement when compliance lags. It is about fighting corruption when it undermines policy effectiveness.

The workshop revealed promising directions. In enforcement and compliance, regulators now have tools to ensure policy implementation. For scalability, innovative solutions like the Kidogo model prove that successful interventions can be replicated across contexts. Several projects identified cultural barriers as persistent challenges.

As Dr. Hellen Otieno from Strathmore University notes, changing norms requires multi-layered approaches involving communities, private sector partners, and sustained advocacy. The evidence base now exists to design more targeted norm-change interventions.

Women’s enterprises need formalization to access public procurement opportunities, requiring collaboration between government registration systems and private-sector mentorship programs. Several GrOW projects demonstrated successful models for such partnerships.

The workshop highlighted multiple collaboration opportunities. Research institutions can partner with implementing organizations to scale successful models. Government agencies can work with private sector players to formalize women’s enterprises. Regional bodies can facilitate knowledge sharing across borders.

But collaboration and research mean little without sustained political commitment. Political will grows when stakeholders see tangible benefits. The GrOW projects succeeded partly because they demonstrated clear value to multiple constituencies, not just women, but families, communities, and local economies.

Maintaining that political will requires continuous engagement, regular success stories, and visible champions at every level of government, Sendugwa noted. The evidence is there. The policies exist. The question now is whether countries will seize this moment to transform millions of women’s lives.

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Pauline Hanson Urges Australia: 'Act NOW Before It's Too Late'

• Pauline Hanson says major parties ignoring youth vote

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has accused both major parties of ignoring the plight of young Australians battling to ever afford a house by presiding over high immigration.

Record-high immigration levels under Labor have worsened Australia's housing affordability crisis, with the median house price in capital cities now above $1million - putting it well beyond the reach of an average, full-time worker earning $102,742.

Senator Hanson said both Labor and the Coalition were more focused on winning votes in marginal seats rather than making housing affordable.

'Young Aussies want to own a home, start a family, and live in a nation they can be proud of, but both major parties are standing in the way,' she said.

'Labor buys votes with handouts, then dumps the debt on the next generation.

'The Liberals skirt around the real issues, too afraid of losing votes to fight back against the decline.

'Meanwhile, mass immigration keeps driving up housing demand, straining services, and undercutting wages. Australians are being pushed to the back of the queue in their own country.'

Last year, 340,800 migrants moved to Australia on a permanent and long-term basis.

This net figure, factoring in departures, was lower than the record-high levels approaching 550,000 in 2023.

But it was significantly higher than the 194,000 who came to Australia in the lead-up to Covid in 2020.

As a result, house prices in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide have outpaced wages growth since the pandemic, even though the Reserve Bank of Australia raised interest rates 13 times in 2022 and 2023.

The average-full time worker can now longer afford the median-priced house in any major capital city market, except Darwin, and now working couples are struggling to get into the property market.

Senator Hanson wants annual immigration levels capped at 130,000, where it was two decades ago before the mining boom.

'It's time to put Australians first, with affordable housing, fairer tax for families, and a government that backs the people who built this nation,' she said.

'If we want to create a future worth inheriting, we need to act now.'

Labor is promising to build 1.2million homes over five years, or 240,000 a year.

But in the year to May, just 182,894 new homes were approved, new Australian Bureau of Statistics data released this week showed, leading to building activity failing to keep pace with rapid population growth.

Anthony Albanese 's Labor government was re-elected in a landslide with a $16billion plan to slash student debt by 20 per cent , saving a graduate an average of $5,520.

But Senator Hanson said cutting Higher Education Contribution Scheme debt amounted to a form of generational pork barrelling to get the youth vote, along with a government guarantee enabling all first-home buyers to get into the property market with a small, five per cent deposit.

'Labor has bought a lot of the young votes with the HECS debt, so getting rid of that and also propping up their deposit on their house, which I think is going to see a lot of the young ones fall over with that because they've still got to make the repayments too to their debt,' she told Sky News host Caleb Bond.

'Their vote's been bought. People have become so self-centred these days, it's all about me. What is in it for me?'

Hanson said Labor was letting Australians down on key issues, including failing to get an exemption from 50 per cent tariffs on Australian steel and aluminium from Donald Trump.

'First, Albanese gets cold-shouldered by Trump. No real relationship, no respect. Penny Wong flies over for 'diplomacy' and comes back empty-handed. No tariff deals. No progress. Just headlines and handshakes. Australians deserve better,' she said.

'Then there's the so-called green energy transition. Wind farms scrapped. Transmission lines delayed. Farmers ignored. Power bills up 9%, and we're told to just cop it. The real cost of Labor's renewables fantasy? It's paid by households and small businesses.'

She also warned of 'nation within a nation' as a result of the current government, citing Cricket Australia's reluctance to hold Test matches on January 26.

'That's exactly what we're seeing. Division, not unity. Woke politics over common sense.

'While I'm in Parliament, I'll keep pushing back because if we don't stand up now, we risk losing the country we love.

'Cricket Australia, our own national sport, won't play matches on Australia Day. Again. Because they're scared of offending someone.

'This isn't inclusion. It's erasing who we are. And most Australians have had enough.'

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World’s Biggest Economy Hikes Park Fees for International Visitors

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on July 3 to increase entrance fees at U.S. national parks for visitors from other countries, even as his administration seeks to cut national park spending by more than a third.

The additional revenue generated by higher fees from foreign tourists will raise hundreds of millions of dollars for conservation and deferred maintenance projects to improve national parks, the White House said in a statement.

The executive order directs the Interior Department, parent agency of the Park Service, to increase entrance fees paid by park visitors from abroad, but does not say by how much or when the new rates would go into effect.

It was also unclear how many of the agency's 433 park units would be affected. Only about 100 sites managed by the Park Service currently charge for admission, and fees vary.

The order also directs the Park Service to ensure that U.S. residents receive priority access over foreign visitors in any of its permitting or reservation systems.

Currently, U.S. citizens in effect pay more than foreign tourists to visit the nation’s scenic natural wonders and historic landmarks because their admission fees as well as a portion of their U.S. tax dollars support the cost of national parks, the statement said.

"Charging higher entrance fees to foreign tourists is a common policy at national parks throughout the world," the statement added.

The executive order comes as the Trump administration has proposed cutting more than US$1 billion from the Park Service budget in fiscal 2026, which would represent a reduction of more than a third of the agency’s budget from the prior year.

The administration's cuts to the federal workforce have already aggravated a staff shortage in national parks across the country.

Permanent staffing at the Park Service since Trump took office in January has dropped 24%, while just 4,500 of the 8,000 seasonal workers his administration pledged for this summer have been hired, according to an analysis on July 2 from the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), a watchdog advocacy group.

Reduced personnel levels at some national parks, including Yosemite in California and Big Bend in Texas, have forced closures, reduced programming and impeded emergency response operations, the NPCA said.

Visitors have continued to flock to national parks in the U.S., the world's largest economy, in record numbers in recent years, with admissions soaring to a new high of 331 million in 2024, up six million from 2023.

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