Global Scans · Inequality & Social Polarisation · Weekly Summary

• [New] At a time when national unity is more important than ever - whether in the face of economic challenges, national security threats, or international geopolitical tensions-identity politics undermines efforts to build a cohesive, united America. Republican Digest
• [New] Europe will have to contend with a German government in transition, a French government in crisis and rising populism. Clean Energy Wire
• [New] In the context of unequal economic development and unequal economic power, the US tariff policy will further widen the wealth gap between countries, and less developed countries will suffer a greater impact. IOL
• With inequality at high levels (e.g., in the U.S., the top 1% own a sizable share of total wealth), not taxing large inter-generational transfers is a missed opportunity to address the wealth gap. Faisal Khan
• Economic slowdown risks social unrest, but Beijing's pivot to domestic markets and state subsidies mitigates some pressures. Tekedia
• Countries heavily reliant on food imports, particularly in Africa and Western Asia, will face severe balance of payments issues and increased social unrest as food becomes unaffordable. The Chronicle-Journal
• Geopolitical instability and social unrest are driving a new wave of public safety threats. Annex North
• The national security risks associated with antisemitic incidents and social unrest have prompted the Trump administration to review the visa process for international students and implement a travel ban affecting 12 mostly African and Middle Eastern countries. KFOX
• PAULINA MILEWSKA fears that Poland may now become part of a growing transatlantic axis of right-wing populism, ultimately playing into Russia's strategy of dividing Europe. Verfassungsblog
• Britain has the potential to be the last bastion of liberal values against a rising tide of populism sweeping across the US and continental Europe. British Future
• Social cohesion challenges: Singapore's multiethnic, multicultural society could be vulnerable to identity-based politics that have fueled populism elsewhere. Maxthon | Privacy Private Browser
• Without significant reforms to address income inequality, housing affordability, and systemic corruption, Iran risks further entrenching class divisions and destabilizing its social fabric. Iran news update
• The intersection of nationalism and identity politics will continue to influence Indian elections and broader state-building processes. Times of India
• While income inequality between individuals declined in recent decades, largely due to economic development in China, there had been a major increase in inherited wealth, with $70 trillion expected to be handed down to heirs in the coming 10 years. Yahoo Finance Singapore
• The U.S. has seen the sharpest rise in risk, which is related to growing institutional fragility and a rise in populism. Coface
• If Chinese income per capita growth continues to outgrow the global average, China could buoy rather than depress income inequality, causing the global measure to rise. UNU WIDER
• As the global economy becomes more knowledge-driven, the gap in education and skills will likely play an even more prominent role in shaping income inequality. TechBullion
• AI is now being used to analyze satellite imagery to assess port congestion, monitor global agricultural yields to predict food shortages, and even track social unrest in key manufacturing regions. Sensos
• While the US has long been viewed as a beacon of democracy and opportunity, recent elections, social unrest, and divisive political rhetoric have led many to consider backup plans. Next Generation Equity
• Part of a worldwide trend towards right-wing populism, Advance will likely continue to be at the center of conservative politics in Australia. The Conversation
• Huge amounts of resources stolen by Chavismo, or left-wing, socialist populism associated with former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, during 25 years of corruption, will likely be recovered. GIS Reports

Last updated: 06 December 2025