Global Scans · Social · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: In the years to come, social commerce will become more widespread and the level of personalization will improve with advanced AI solutions & chatbots. The number of worldwide social media users is projected to grow from 2.1 billion in 2016 to 2.5 billion by 2018.

• [New] Empowering people and societies to champion their rights and hold their leaders responsible will further be critical in promoting human rights globally. Diplomatist
• [New] The quest for equilibrium between economic potential and social stewardship continues to define the corporate strategy, placing Unilever as a potential front-runner in the evolving consumer trading domain. StocksToTrade
• [New] China's population decline could slow long-term growth and strain social systems. Advisorpedia
• [New] Today's Chinese travelers are more digitally savvy than ever before, with many using apps, social media, and online platforms to plan their trips. Travel And Tour World
• [New] Rather than visiting just iconic landmarks, Chinese travelers now seek destinations that offer opportunities for cultural exploration, nature activities, and authentic interactions with local communities. Travel And Tour World
• [New] The global aid system is facing an unprecedented crisis that threatens to dismantle civil society, stifle peaceful activism, and undermine decades of progress on human rights, democracy, and social justice. Devdiscourse
• [New] China's hydropower, lithium, and solar projects in Tibet threaten fragile ecosystems, downstream water security, and local communities, highlighting the tension between green ambitions and human rights. IANS
• [New] Future progress of AI will be fueled by contributions in the open-source community. SiliconANGLE
• [New] Broader Community Engagement: By 2026, new programs targeting healthcare, education, and sustainable agriculture will further diversify local economies and empower the communities of Goias. Farmonaut
• [New] As of 2026, Chapada stands at the forefront - an industry benchmark for sustainable mining, environmental management, and community development. / Brazil Farmonaut
• [New] Social anxiety disorder, formerly social phobia, causes an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings, and affects about 5% to 10% of people globally. New Atlas
• [New] Growth forecasts for 2026 have been downgraded for India, Maldives, and Nepal, driven by weaker export prospects, growing foreign exchange pressures, and social unrest, respectively. World Bank
• [New] Starting in 2026 and mobilising €86 billion, the Social Climate Fund has been created to ensure the transition to a greener economy is fair and leaves no one behind and to support vulnerable households and small businesses in their efforts to switch to cleaner energy and transport. Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion
• [New] The ongoing demographic shift is expected to have a lasting impact on Singapore's insurance landscape, requiring ongoing collaboration between insurers, employers, and policymakers to ensure sustainable solutions for an ageing society. Insurance Business
• [New] As all societies face the possible threats to jobs and livelihoods by AI, many policymakers and researchers will be watching the progress of the Irish government's permanent basic income scheme. The Conversation
• [New] In 2026, the Conscious Travelers will give preference to destinations that provide eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and sustainable travel. Travel And Tour World
• [New] Climate change is a driver of poverty, poor mental health, inequity, and increased intersectional vulnerability, with significant differential global impacts on individual and community health and well-being. UW Health Sciences Library
• [New] OpenAI is entering its social era with the launch of its Sora app, a TikTok style feed of AI-generated content, with all the backlash you would expect. TechCrunch
• [New] The UK is proud to be part of the FUNGUO partnership that nurtures startups with the potential to transform communities and drive lasting impact. Daily News
• [New] With all community centers and clubs having e-waste bins by mid-2026, there will be 1,015 collection points islandwide. ST
• [New] MNCs that align with green trade practices and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards will likely dominate global commerce. TradingView

Last updated: 20 October 2025