Heated discussion over Sustainable Development on the ISF

Despite the intensive schedule and overnight negotiations, participants still showed high spirits while engaging in the discussions on sustainable development, entrepreneurship and human capital on the third day of the WYA International Solidarity Forum. Among the discussions today, there was a key word that was mentioned repeatedly: “Investing.” During a lecture given by Andreas Wildmer, […]
Learning from a UN Ambassador

H.E. Carlos Garcia, the Permanent Representative of El Salvador to the United Nations, graced the participants of the International Solidarity Forum to talk about the United Nations as a key actor in facilitation and mediation of discussion between nations. In the United Nations, countries have the ability to speak out for policies in different levels […]
Global Health Challenges

“One of the biggest public health challenges that we face is the demographic transition globally.”- Dr. Douglas Noble The 10th Annual International Solidarity Forum opened with an insightful lecture and discussion on Sustainable Development and the Healthcare system given by Dr. Douglas Noble. During the presentation, he explained that one of the major challenges to […]
What Is the Role of the State in Development?

The plight of who should control the commanding heights of the economy has long troubled humanity. What would be more beneficial for mankind? A state-controlled economy or a market-driven one? Centuries of discourse have argued for and against both sides. But up until now, it is still, in my opinion, one of the prime predicaments of society. Scholars are still discussing […]
The Philippines Does Not Need A Reproductive Health Bill

This Blog post was written in response to this article that appeared in the Guardian. In “Philippines needs resolute political support on reproductive health,” Melissa Upreti of the Center for Reproductive Rights explains in her view how the new reproductive health law—which won’t go into effect until 120 days after its original effective date of […]
Who is man, that you are mindful of him?

On the 21st of March, the United Nations celebrated World Down Syndrome Day! This day marked an amazing opportunity to bring to the forefront testimonials and viable experiences while raising awareness of this issue, which is so often put aside to allow more “relevant” issues (such as the International Day of Happiness which, and is […]
Happy Birthday World Youth Alliance: Maria’s Musings

Some memories and advice from one of our long serving and dedicated staff members, Maria Grizzetti. 1.What first attracted you to WYA? The mission of WYA was the first thing that made WYA attractive. To promote the dignity of the human person means addressing the problems young people face, the ethical issues, and the real […]
Happy Birthday World Youth Alliance: Ren’s Ruminations

Some thoughts and insights from our long serving Staff Member Renelyn Tan. 1. How did you first get involved with WYA? I received a forwarded email from my college friend about World Youth Alliance. During that time, they were looking for interns at the Asia Pacific office in Manila. 2. What impact has WYA had […]
Happy Birthday World Youth Alliance: The Founder’s Story

Today is WYA’s 14th anniversary. Here is an Interview with our Founder, Anna Halpine. 1. Tell us a little bit about WYA’s story, how did it all start? In 1999, the World Youth Alliance was founded in New York City at the United Nations. At a conference on Population and Development, thirty two young people […]
Is Foreign Aid a Necessary Evil in Developing Africa?

Definition and Origin of Foreign Aid Foreign aid refers to the international transfer of capital, goods, or services in the form of grants or loans; sometimes referred to as voluntary transfer either from one government to another (bilateral assistance) or through a multilateral assistance agency like the World Bank for the benefit of the recipient […]