April 28, 2025
Thematic Focus: Reports & International Development | GS Paper 2 & 3

🕊️ Intro Whisper:

When the world grows unequal, even hope needs help to survive.

🔹 Key Highlights from the World Social Report 2025

• Over 2.8 billion people live on incomes between $2.15 to $6.85 per day.
• Economic insecurity is rampant — 60% fear job loss.
• Inequality is deepening; wealth and power remain concentrated at the top.
• Social trust is declining — over 50% of global population distrusts governments.
• The report advocates for a new policy framework rooted in:
  • Equity
  • Economic Security
  • Solidarity
• Without urgent reforms, SDGs by 2030 may not be achieved.
• Calls for transformative changes in institutions and governance frameworks.

🧭 Concept Explainer:

The World Social Report, jointly released by UN DESA and UNU-WIDER, is a flagship document that explores how economic and social inequality intersect with governance, trust, and sustainable development. This year’s edition warns that the current socio-economic structures are fragile, and that misinformation and distrust are eroding the public’s faith in institutions.

🧾 GS Mapping:

• GS Paper 2: International Institutions | Social Justice | Governance
• GS Paper 3: Poverty & Inequality | Inclusive Growth | Economic Security

💠 A Thought Spark — by IAS Monk:

“Development without equity is a shadow cast by power — long, dark, and cold to the touch.”