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This research paper by Carlos Milani analyzes the evolution of Brazilian foreign policy, specifically its South–South co-operation (SSC) strategies. It argues for a shift in conceptualizing foreign policy as a 'public policy' rather than a static state policy, reflecting a plurality of domestic actors and interests. The document details Brazil's engagement with Africa and other developing nations through technical co-operation, trade, and political coalitions like BRICS and IBSA, while noting the strategic role of both state agencies and private corporations in these efforts.

A statement by Amigos de la Tierra Mozambique / JA! reflecting on the deterioration of human rights, civil liberties, and environmental justice in Mozambique during 2013, and expressing goals for 2014.

This background brief outlines the mission and strategic framework of the International Institute for Sustainable Development's (IISD) Mining and Sustainable Development Initiative. The initiative aims to ensure mining contributes to inclusive growth and social development without compromising the environment by shifting the focus of mining agreements from narrow fiscal benefits to a broader range of economic and social expenditures.

This discussion brief by the Stockholm Environment Institute reviews global studies to estimate the international finance required for climate change mitigation, specifically for a warming trajectory of no more than 2°C. It distinguishes between various metrics—such as total, incremental, and net climate-relevant investment—and highlights a significant gap between current funding and the needs of developing (non-OECD) countries.

This discussion brief by the Stockholm Environment Institute examines the relationship between disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation, arguing for a more integrated approach that addresses the underlying drivers of vulnerability and the wider context of social and economic development.

This 2014 policy report by the Stockholm Environment Institute examines the water-energy nexus, specifically focusing on the sustainability of hydropower and bioenergy. It analyzes the environmental and social trade-offs of these energy sources, provides a detailed case study of Sweden's hydropower experience, and offers strategic recommendations for development assistance organizations supporting private sector bioenergy projects in developing countries.

A condolence statement from the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) honoring the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela following his passing in 2013.

Natural Justice, a not-for-profit association, issued a statement of support for its Fellow in India, Stella James, following her public accounts of sexual harassment. The organization condemned all forms of harassment and abuse of women, particularly within the legal profession, and requested that media refer to James's original statements and respect her privacy.

A statement from the president of Friends of the Earth U.S. advocating for a 'Robin Hood Tax' to fund the global response to the climate crisis, arguing that current funding mechanisms are insufficient and often repurpose existing development aid.

The 'Minimum Standards for local climate-smart disaster risk reduction' is a practical guide and checklist designed to help local community leaders and disaster risk reduction (DRR) practitioners integrate future climate-related risks and uncertainties into their risk reduction efforts. It provides a framework for community-level action and guidance for civil society organizations (CSOs) and local government authorities to support these efforts, ensuring that DRR activities contribute to long-term climate change adaptation and move beyond 'business as usual'.

This research paper examines Brazil's strategic shift toward the South Atlantic, driven by the discovery of pre-salt oil and gas reserves. It details Brazil's efforts to secure these resources through naval modernization, legal claims to extend its continental shelf, and expanded military cooperation with African nations to establish a regional identity and deter outside powers.

This document compares over 40 studies on regional GHG reduction targets based on various effort-sharing approaches. It finds that targets vary significantly by approach and region; for a 450 ppm CO2e stabilization level by 2030, OECD 1990 allowances would be roughly half of 2010 levels, while other regions like Asia and Latin America would see different relative reductions. The author notes that current literature covers only a small fraction of possible allocation approaches and calls for more in-depth modelling.

This briefing argues that the international community should use the process of Syria's accession to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) as a catalyst for a broader, holistic approach to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) disarmament, specifically within the Middle East.

This case study examines the complexities of regional infrastructure planning in Southern Africa, focusing on the SADC Regional Infrastructure Development Master Plan (RIDMP). It analyzes the roles of various stakeholders—including governments, development finance institutions, donors, and the private sector—and discusses the challenges of financing, coordination, and the socio-environmental impacts of large-scale projects, using the Lesotho Highlands Water Project as a specific example.

This research paper examines the failure of the biofuels sector in Zambia, where government goals of poverty reduction and energy security were undermined by a lack of policy safeguards, poor infrastructure, and the inability of small-scale farmers to access international markets.

Friends of the Earth International challenges World Bank claims that land lease deals in developing countries reduce poverty and hunger, arguing instead that land grabbing displaces communities, fuels conflict, and prioritizes exports over domestic food security.

This situation report by the Institute for Security Studies examines the mobilisation of private sector finance for climate change mitigation and adaptation, with a particular focus on developing countries and the role of the Green Climate Fund.

This research paper examines why South Africa is a founding member of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) but remains absent from the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). The author argues that South Africa's reliance on general domestic transparency laws is insufficient for the specific needs of the extractive sector and suggests that the government's reluctance is tied to geopolitical perceptions of double standards between the global North and South.

This guide provides a ten-step framework for parliamentarians, government officials, and local communities to negotiate agricultural investment contracts with foreign investors from a sustainable development perspective. It emphasizes the importance of preparatory data, independent feasibility studies, and legally binding environmental and social obligations to avoid the negative impacts often associated with large-scale land acquisitions.

This guide provides a 10-step framework for parliamentarians, officials, and local communities to negotiate investment contracts for agricultural land and water with foreign investors, focusing on sustainable development and the protection of local rights.