As we approach the fourth decade of the 21st century, the very act of communicating development has become somewhat of a paradox. In a world marked by multiple crises—climate disaster, economic disparity, and ideological fragmentation—the concept of “development” itself teeters on the edge of collapse. We speak of humanitarianism, social activism, and global economic engagement, yet these terms often obscure more than they reveal. What are we actually developing? And for whom?
Concepts like localisation and decolonisation are no longer mere alternatives to aid; they represent fundamental critiques of the systems through which we communicate development. The framework itself, with its inherent hierarchies, needs to be dismantled.
In this blog, we aim to explore innovative and radical perspectives that challenge traditional approaches to Communication for Development (ComDev). The authors are six students of various international and professional backgrounds, enrolled in the Communication for Development MA at the University of Malmö. By questioning mainstream assumptions about development and engaging with contemporary discussion and debate in the sector, we highlight how scholars and practitioners—especially from the Global South—are reshaping the narrative, often in opposition to established institutional power.
Our aim is not to offer solutions but to create a space for confrontation, for uncomfortable questions that unsettle the reader. In embracing this critical engagement, we push for a rethinking of development, global justice, and the very ways we imagine change. We invite you to join us in creating this online space for critical development discourse, through subscribing and sharing our posts, as well as sharing your own perspective and other information in the comments.
Clare, Jessica, Anubhuti, Gina and Liam.