Dear readers,
As promised last week, we’re back with a new selection of reading and book recommendations—some fresh, others revisiting gems from previous Weeklies. This collection spans big-picture questions about power, democracy, and technology; practical tools for advocacy and accountability; and inspiring perspectives from across the globe.
You can also explore our Fiscal Space platform, conceived to spotlight timely opportunities for funders to help build more equitable and sustainable fiscal systems—ensuring that public finances are managed responsibly, fairly, and transparently.
Whether you want to explore fresh perspectives, strengthen your skills, or deepen your understanding of today’s most pressing challenges, these readings offer plenty to engage with. Next week, we’ll share standout moments from our members in the first half of the year.
Happy reading!
TAI team
Reading List
Who holds power in the age of AI? In Empire of AI, Karen Hao explores how emerging technologies are reshaping democracy and deepening global inequalities, and raises urgent questions about digital colonialism.
A tool for environmental justice. “We Can’t See the Sunset” Zine blends community testimonies, organizing guides, art, and analysis to support those on the frontlines of environmental harm and climate advocacy.
After the exposé—what next? The Sentry shares how it continues accountability work beyond investigations, using audits, legal tools, and pressure to keep corrupt actors in check.
Who’s funding local actors? This Publish What You Fund report reveals that just 5.5% of project funding from five major donors reaches local organizations. This underscores gaps in transparency and accountability.
The Power Shifting Shuffle. Anna Levy and Nonso Jideofor explore how everyday practices in human rights philanthropy can both shift and reinforce power. Based on interviews with 25 funders and practitioners (including TAI), the piece calls for bold action in times of crisis.
A new platform for democratic voices. The Outlook by Keseb brings together leaders from six countries to share bold strategies for defending and renewing democracy.
A wake-up call on democracy. OjoPúblico’s Esta democracia no es democracia examines the disconnect between democratic ideals and political realities in Latin America.
How funders can exit well. Relativ Impact and Ethical Good argue that sustainable funding includes planned exits and community-led transitions; especially in today’s volatile funding landscape.
Freedom in decline. The Freedom in the World report marks the 19th straight year of democratic backsliding, with twice as many countries declining as improving, but also showcases civil society’s determination.
In Debt For What Swaps? Guiding Principles for the Allocation of Debt Swaps Resources, Adil Ababou explores how the revival of debt swaps can unlock billions in long-term, predictable financing for sustainable development—from conservation to education and climate action—offering a valuable tool in today’s tight funding landscape.
How tech shapes power. In Superbloom, Nicholas Carr warns that our digital environment is enabling authoritarianism and cults of personality. Philip Ball’s review is a must-read.
From conservation to climate justice. In Alliance Magazine, Masego Madzwamuse of Oak Foundation shares her journey and calls for stronger support of African-led, South-South climate solutions.
Can global democracy work? The Universal Republic by Mathias Koenig-Archibugi examines the idea of a democratic world polity and whether it could help solve global governance challenges.
In El Financiero, Luis Godoy Rueda of Open Society Foundations reflects on Mexico’s position within shifting international economic dynamics (article in Spanish).
Investigative skills meet transparency tools. Shyamlal Yadav’s Journalism Through RTI: Information, Investigation, Impact is a practical and inspiring guide to using right-to-information laws for public interest journalism.
Bonus: The YCompassion Leadership Programme equips social impact professionals with practical tools to integrate compassionate leadership into their work. The next cohort begins in Autumn 2025 — learn more and join the journey.
We’d love to hear from you on how we can further improve TAI Weekly to better serve your needs in program management on the transparency, accountability, improved grantmaking and civic space. Please direct your feedback to [email protected] or