The article discusses the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, focusing on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to Israeli military actions and the political dynamics involving key figures like Benjamin Netanyahu, Kamala Harris, and Donald Trump. It highlights the international diplomatic efforts led by the US, Qatar, and Egypt to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The article also covers Israel's recent military strike on Iran, which targeted facilities linked to Iran's missile and nuclear programs, and the subsequent reactions from Iranian leadership. Additionally, it touches on the potential economic implications of Israeli financial decisions affecting Palestinian banks.

USAID's Bureau for Global Health staff are moving to unionize, highlighting ongoing workforce issues related to contractor benefits. The U.K.'s new Labour government has not announced significant aid policy changes, maintaining the use of aid for asylum seeker housing. Two development organizations, United Nations Development Business and Development Initiatives, are closing due to financial pressures. Meanwhile, Genesis Analytics has absorbed a significant portion of Crown Agents' procurement team, expanding its services. Key appointments in various global development organizations are also noted, reflecting ongoing strategic shifts in the sector.

Tom Fletcher has been appointed as the new U.N. relief chief, succeeding Martin Griffiths, amid concerns about his limited humanitarian experience. Leslie Maasdorp becomes the first African CEO of British International Investment, tasked with increasing investments in low-income countries. The Global NCD Alliance postponed its Kigali forum due to a Marburg virus outbreak, while the Africa CDC also delayed its conference to address the mpox outbreak. The U.K. government, under Labour, faces challenges in defining its aid policy, as highlighted in a new book by Mark Lowcock. Meanwhile, Keith Kibirango transitions to a new role following the collapse of Crown Agents Ltd.

Kristalina Georgieva begins her second term as managing director of the IMF amid challenges such as debt distress and calls for financial reform. Her first term saw her navigate the IMF through COVID-19 and economic crises, with a focus on development and climate issues. The article also highlights Naomi Campbell's response to misconduct allegations at her charity, Fashion for Relief, and discusses the future of northern aid donors. The piece touches on various global development topics, including the role of international organizations and upcoming events like Devex World.

The article covers the conclusion of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, highlighting key developments such as the call for a female UN Secretary-General in 2026 and the ongoing gender equality debate. It also reports on financial misconduct at Naomi Campbell's charity, Fashion for Relief, leading to her ban as a charity trustee. The piece includes insights from the UK Labour Party conference and the launch of the M300 Accelerator aimed at electrifying Africa. Additionally, it mentions the passing of Amadou Mahtar M'Bow, former UNESCO Director-General, and various appointments in international development organizations.

The race for the African Development Bank presidency intensifies as Akinwumi Adesina prepares to step down, with candidates like Amadou Hott and Samuel Munzele Maimbo entering the fray. The UN General Assembly's key week features high-level meetings on climate change and antimicrobial resistance, while the European Union's new commissioner nominations raise concerns over development aid priorities. Angela Bruce-Raeburn's appointment as chief diversity officer at the U.S. Peace Corps comes amid potential political shifts. Africa CDC postpones its conference due to an mpox outbreak, focusing efforts on combating the disease.

The article discusses the revamp of Devex's Pro Insider newsletter and highlights key topics such as humanitarian burnout, the upcoming UN General Assembly (UNGA), and the race for the next Asian Development Bank (ADB) president. It explores the potential nomination of Masato Kanda as ADB president and the geopolitical implications of China's possible involvement. The article also addresses the issue of burnout in humanitarian organizations, citing oppressive workloads and toxic cultures as contributing factors. Additionally, it mentions the creation of a chief AI officer role at PATH and the closure of Crown Agents, with former employees finding new positions. The UNGA's agenda, including antimicrobial resistance and rising sea levels, is also covered, along with the Summit of the Future initiative by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

The Department of Labor has issued new regulations to update the Davis-Bacon and Related Acts, which will raise wage standards for construction workers on federally funded or assisted projects. The rule redefines 'prevailing wage' and streamlines the process for updating prevailing wages. It also increases record-keeping requirements for contractors and strengthens the DOL's enforcement power, including new anti-retaliation provisions and liability for subcontractors' violations. The rule will affect federal construction contractors' labor costs, particularly in light of increased federal spending on infrastructure.

Chemonics International is downsizing its office space in Washington, D.C., due to a shift to hybrid work models post-pandemic. Jeff Bezos awarded $50 million each to Eva Longoria and William “Bill” McRaven through his Courage and Civility Award, while MacKenzie Scott announced a $640 million donation to over 300 small nonprofits. Bernie Moreno, supported by Donald Trump, won the Republican Senate primary in Ohio. Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, was blocked by Israel from entering Gaza. The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation opened its first office in Latin America, focusing on investments in Brazil. Several leadership changes were noted across various organizations, including Gavi, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the Center on International Cooperation.

A record number of voters are set to participate in elections across 64 countries and the European Union this year, raising concerns about the impact on gender equality. Experts highlight barriers to women's participation, the inclusion of women in political office, and the implications of election results on gender-related issues. Significant attention is given to the potential rightward shift in the EU and its effects on funding for reproductive health and sexual violence issues. The situation in the United States is also discussed, with concerns about former President Donald Trump's policies on women's rights. The importance of focusing on lower levels of government for gender equality progress is emphasized.