Signals tend to reveal emergent phenomena sooner so that changemakers can turn their attention to possible opportunities, disruptions, innovations and developments that affect their missions, programs and work. Signals can become mainstream and evolve into trends — when a signal hits a certain threshold, for example, it might become a trend in the broader society or sector, and begin to diffuse rapidly.
Global Affairs distributes billions of dollars each year in the name of international advocacy and diplomacy, from small grants supporting overseas Pride events to Canada’s budgetary contribution to the United Nations. A faster, simpler process would allow global cooperation and international aid organizations to focus on the people and communities they serve, instead of paperwork.
Many humanitarian crises are long-term in nature, affecting millions of people around the world each year. Yet, experts say these “protracted” crises get much less media coverage than “rapid-onset” disasters, limiting their capacity to raise donations, and stymying efforts to help people who need support.
The COVID-19 pandemic shut international borders and built silos at home. Programs that break down regional barriers and build international co-operation are needed now more than ever.
While domestic resource mobilization has been a long-time priority for African nations, the urgency of the pandemic added to the list of spending needs and slowed down the region’s efforts.
Studies show that the international coverage of a humanitarian crisis directly impacts how much global aid goes into the affected region. Passing the one year mark of when the Taliban took power, supporting local journalists in Afghanistan is vital for inclusive coverage of important issues affecting populations within the country, this expert says.
