Dec 2023: Makeover, Proof and LOL

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Makeover, Proof and LOL

written by Aurélie

Web makeover

We have a new website that is faster, leaner and much more (repo). It’s master-minded by @mkue – let’s give Michael a round of applause (even if he won't hear it, as he is taking a break under a coconut tree in Thailand)!

Important locals

You might be familiar with the “do no harm” approach to humanitarian aid. I come across this term a lot over the course of my studies, which is why I was especially interested in the 2024 humanitarian action report, released by OCHA. One chapter that jumped out at me is about the important role that local and national actors should play when it comes to delivering humanitarian aid, and how to understand local needs.

Welcome @DarkMenacer

We first got to know Pranav Chatur, a software developer in India, with the straightforward message, "I am interested in Open Source." Pranav quickly dove into complex tasks, seamlessly integrating into both our codebase and team dynamics despite final exams at university. His growth and contributions have been remarkable.

People help the people

Ever wondered if your acts and generosity matter? This is a resounding yes, if you listen to Asha Curran’s Ted Talk. The CEO of GivingTuesday shows that generosity's impact is profound; our small acts of generosity have far-reaching effects that we often underestimate. A nice side-effect? Generosity alleviates stress; it enhances well-being, health, and happiness for both the giver and the recipient.

Scientific proof

Here I am, back with more arguments why universal basic income is the future. I found another paper replicating the famous study conducted in Kenya. It found similar results to the one of 2016, which showed that monthly payments had the biggest impact on recipients’ food security.

LOL

Ever wondered how laughter sounds online in different languages? From "haha" to "kkkk," they all mean the same thing. But when it comes to typing it out, things get wild. In Japanese, "www" looks like grass, while in Turkish, it's all about keyboard chaos. We love to read Rest of World – well done @donohoe, @aeroplanejane, @annafractuous!

My World in Data

Stat of the month

46,400,000,000

On behalf of more than 1,900 humanitarian partners worldwide, the United Nations today launched its global appeal for 2024, calling for US$46.4 billion to help 180.5 million people with life-saving assistance and protection.

Adding up

I have done some math and calculated that, to this day, 179 contributors donated a total of CHF 209,350.00. Thank you for your continued support and generosity.

My World in News

• The moving story of a Sierra Leonean mother trying to reach Europe. (Al Jazeera)
• How ten women in India won the lottery, split it among each other, and about the connection to universal basic income. (German, NZZ)
• Climate change swallows up a whole island in Sierra Leone. (npr)

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