As we approach 2025, the global development landscape demands a radical transformation. The traditional top-down approach to solving social challenges has reached its limits in today’s “polycrisis” world.
The latest social progress index reveals a stark reality: Of the over 170 countries studied, only 32 have made meaningful progress, with 61 declining and 77 stagnating. This trend signals an urgent need for innovative approaches.
One of the key reasons in my opinion why we have not eradicated poverty or made a major dent in achieving the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals is our “I” mindset. In 2025, I predict a significant shift away from the what's-in-it-for-me mentality toward a collaborative ecosystem of problem solving. The siloed approach that has dominated development work will give way to more integrated, community-driven solutions.
About the author
Jeroo Billimoria
Jeroo Billimoria is the founder of several innovative and award-winning NGOs and has over 20 years of experience running systems change organizations as a Skoll awardee, and an Ashoka and Schwab fellow. Among her previous organizations are Child and Youth Finance International, Aflatoun International, Childline India, and Child Helpline International, which have facilitated meaningful change in financial inclusion of youth and created a global movement for protection of children and youth in more than 180 countries. Billimoria is now founder of One Family Family Foundation, which incubates social innovations such as Catalyst 2030.
