Issues

Issues that matter

Global peace is increasingly challenged by rising military expenditures, escalating conflicts, and mass displacement. These trends strain international stability and highlight the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian efforts.

Global military spending reached a record $2.44 trillion in 2023, marking the largest annual increase since 2009. (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute via Breaking Defense)

Over 117.3 million people were forcibly displaced by the end of 2023, largely due to conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Gaza. (UNHCR Global Trends Report)

The U.S. ranks 132nd out of 163 countries on the 2024 Global Peace Index, while Iceland remains the most peaceful. (Institute for Economics & Peace)

Learn More

The United States faces evolving threats to homeland security, from border management and immigration surges to cyberattacks and domestic extremism. These challenges demand modernized infrastructure, data transparency, and coordinated national strategies.

In fiscal year 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection recorded over 2.4 million encounters at the southwest border, reflecting a continued rise in unauthorized migration.
(U.S. Customs and Border Protection)

The Department of Homeland Security has prioritized cybersecurity, allocating over $2.6 billion in 2023 to protect against ransomware and critical infrastructure threats.
(White House FY2023 Budget Fact Sheet)

The DHS Office of Homeland Security Statistics launched Key Homeland Security Metrics to improve transparency and access to immigration enforcement data.
(Department of Homeland Security)

Learn More

Economic indicators such as inflation, interest rates, banking fees, and national debt levels significantly impact the financial well-being of individuals and the country's fiscal health.

The U.S. inflation rate stood at 2.4% for the 12 months ending March 2025, reflecting ongoing economic adjustments post-pandemic.
(Bureau of Labor Statistics+1USAFacts+1)

The Federal Reserve maintained the federal funds rate between 4.25% and 4.50%, adopting a cautious approach amid global economic uncertainties.

The average monthly maintenance fee for checking accounts was $13.95, highlighting the cost differences consumers face.
(MoneyRates)

Learn More

The wealth and net worth of the middle class in the United States have been severely impacted by rising living costs, stagnant wages, and the increasing concentration of wealth among the top earners. These issues require policy interventions aimed at improving economic mobility and wealth distribution.

The median net worth of U.S. households was $121,700 in 2021, a 9% increase from 2019, but still far behind the wealth of the top 1%.
(Federal Reserve)

The top 1% of U.S. households hold more than 16 times the wealth of the bottom 50%, a disparity that has grown in the past few decades.
(Forbes)

Housing affordability remains a significant issue, with median home prices increasing by 15% in 2021 alone, while wages have not kept pace. (National Association of Realtors)

Learn More

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various industries, but it has also raised serious concerns about data privacy and security. As AI systems increasingly rely on personal data for decision-making, the need for clear regulations and transparent practices is becoming more urgent.

In 2023, 62% of Americans expressed concern about how AI uses their personal data, highlighting a growing public awareness of privacy issues. (Pew Research)

The EU introduced the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in 2018, which imposes strict rules on how AI can handle personal data and has set a global precedent. (GDPR.eu)

Data breaches have affected over 30% of U.S. adults in the past year, often due to AI-driven applications that fail to safeguard personal information. (CNBC)

Learn More

As the U.S. workforce faces rapid technological change, the demand for upskilling and reskilling is critical to ensuring economic stability. Meanwhile, the debate surrounding sustainable wages continues to grow, with advocates pushing for increased wages to match inflation and cost of living.

The U.S. labor force participation rate was 62.6% in 2023, down from 63.4% in 2020, signaling a decline in the number of working-age people actively employed or seeking work. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Nearly 60% of U.S. workers report being underpaid for their jobs, with many pushing for higher wages due to rising costs of living and inflation.
(CNBC)

More than 50% of employers report they are investing in employee development programs, focusing on upskilling to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market. (Society for Human Resource Management)

Learn More

Access to affordable housing, reliable transportation, and nutritious food remains a significant challenge for many Americans. These critical issues are intertwined with socioeconomic inequality, affecting overall quality of life and economic mobility.

The U.S. housing affordability index dropped by 10% in 2023, marking the steepest decline in a decade, as home prices continued to soar while wages stagnated.
(National Association of Realtors)

Transportation costs have risen by 6% over the last year, with many Americans spending an increasing share of their income on commuting and car maintenance.
(Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Food insecurity affected 34 million Americans in 2022, including 9 million children, despite the country’s overall economic recovery from the pandemic.
(Feeding America)

Learn More

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education plays a crucial role in preparing future generations for the evolving job market. Increased investment in STEM fields is essential to address global challenges such as climate change, healthcare, and technological innovation.

The U.S. government allocated over $10 billion in 2023 to STEM education programs, aiming to expand access to these critical fields for underrepresented groups.
(U.S. Department of Education)

The number of U.S. undergraduate STEM degrees awarded has increased by 40% over the past decade, but diversity in STEM remains a challenge, with women making up just 28% of the STEM workforce.
(National Science Foundation)

Global investment in STEM research and development hit a record $2.5 trillion in 2023, reflecting growing international efforts to tackle global challenges through innovation.
(World Economic Forum)

Learn More

Faith-based organizations play a vital role in addressing migration and homelessness by providing humanitarian aid, advocating for policy changes, and offering long-term support. These efforts are integral to addressing systemic challenges that affect vulnerable populations worldwide.

Faith-based groups provide over $2 billion annually in aid to refugees and displaced persons, often stepping in where government assistance is limited or unavailable.
(Catholic Charities USA)

In 2023, over 580,000 people in the U.S. were experiencing homelessness, and faith-based organizations are a significant source of emergency housing and food assistance.
(U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development)

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) works with over 900 faith-based organizations, leveraging their networks and outreach to assist refugees in 80 countries.
(UNHCR)
‍

Learn More

Equal rights continue to be a focal point of social and legal movements, as disparities in race, gender, and sexual orientation remain significant issues in many countries. Efforts to promote inclusivity and protect individual rights are ongoing and crucial for societal progress.

In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of LGBTQ+ rights, affirming that sexual orientation and gender identity are protected under federal civil rights law.
(New York Times)

Over 50% of U.S. workers reported facing gender-based discrimination in the workplace, with women of color being disproportionately affected.
(Catalyst)

Global gender inequality persists, with women earning 20% less than men on average worldwide, and the gender gap in political representation remains wide.
(World Economic Forum)

Learn More

Mental health and substance abuse disorders are increasingly recognized as critical public health challenges. As the stigma surrounding these issues decreases, there is a greater focus on treatment, support systems, and the societal impacts of these conditions, particularly in the context of loneliness.

In 2023, nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experienced a mental illness, with anxiety and depression being the most common conditions.
(National Alliance on Mental Illness)

The global substance abuse crisis continues to rise, with opioid-related deaths increasing by 10% in 2023 alone, driven by the surge of fentanyl overdoses.
(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Loneliness has been deemed a major health risk, with nearly 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. reporting feeling lonely in 2023, leading to increased risks of mental health issues and physical ailments.
(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Learn More

The Midwest has experienced a shift in economic investment, with increased focus on innovation, infrastructure development, and sustainability. These efforts aim to revitalize the region’s economy, create jobs, and ensure long-term growth.

In 2023, the Midwest saw a 7% increase in venture capital investments, with significant growth in tech startups and green energy projects.
(Crain's Detroit)

The Biden administration's $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill is expected to create over 500,000 jobs in the Midwest as roads, bridges, and transit systems are upgraded.
(White House)

Midwestern cities such as Detroit, Cleveland, and Chicago are investing in green technology and sustainable industries, contributing to a 3% annual increase in regional GDP.
(Purdue University)

Learn More

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has introduced specialized financing programs aimed at encouraging Millennials and Gen Z entrepreneurs to acquire and grow businesses. These initiatives are designed to provide easier access to capital and resources for younger generations entering the entrepreneurial landscape.

In 2023, SBA-backed loans for young entrepreneurs grew by 25%, with Millennials and Gen Z accounting for a significant share of new business acquisitions.
(Small Business Administration)

SBA’s 7(a) Loan Program provides up to $5 million in funding, helping young entrepreneurs purchase existing businesses and fund startup costs.
(Small Business Administration)

Approximately 40% of Millennials and 35% of Gen Z entrepreneurs report using SBA funding to acquire businesses, showing an increasing interest in ownership opportunities.
(Forbes)
‍

Learn More

The U1GPS Forum

Stay connected with the latest updates, insights, and stories from United 1GPS.

February 11, 2025

1:00 pm

Economic Inequality and the Wealth Gap: The Impact on Millennials and Gen Z

Economic inequality and the growing wealth gap have significantly impacted Millennials and Gen Z, limiting their financial security and economic opportunities. This paper explores the root causes, including wage stagnation, rising education and housing costs, and labor market disruptions. It also examines how these challenges affect homeownership, student debt, and retirement savings. Policy solutions such as student debt relief, affordable housing initiatives, and labor protections are proposed to promote financial stability. Addressing these issues is essential for creating a more equitable economic future for younger generations.

Read post

December 12, 2024

4:15 pm

The End of TikTok? Balancing Privacy, Security, and Expression

The TikTok ban sparks a heated debate over national security and free speech. Supporters argue it’s essential to protect American data and interests. Critics warn of economic fallout, cultural loss, and censorship risks. Dive into the implications of this controversial move.

Read post

October 9, 2024

4:00 pm

Tackling Student Loan Debt: What’s Next for Our Generation?

The issue of student loan debt continues to loom large over millions of Americans, especially for younger generations. With more than 43 million U.S. borrowers collectively owing over $1.6 trillion in federal student loans, the impact on individual lives, the economy, and broader society is significant. So, what's next for tackling this pressing issue?

Read post

View all posts

Providing unbiased

information on

issues that

matter

Issues that matter

Global peace is increasingly challenged by rising military expenditures, escalating conflicts, and mass displacement. These trends strain international stability and highlight the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian efforts.

The United States faces evolving threats to homeland security, from border management and immigration surges to cyberattacks and domestic extremism. These challenges demand modernized infrastructure, data transparency, and coordinated national strategies.

Economic indicators such as inflation, interest rates, banking fees, and national debt levels significantly impact the financial well-being of individuals and the country's fiscal health.

As the U.S. workforce faces rapid technological change, the demand for upskilling and reskilling is critical to ensuring economic stability. Meanwhile, the debate surrounding sustainable wages continues to grow, with advocates pushing for increased wages to match inflation and cost of living.

Access to affordable housing, reliable transportation, and nutritious food remains a significant challenge for many Americans. These critical issues are intertwined with socioeconomic inequality, affecting overall quality of life and economic mobility.

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education plays a crucial role in preparing future generations for the evolving job market. Increased investment in STEM fields is essential to address global challenges such as climate change, healthcare, and technological innovation.

Faith-based organizations play a vital role in addressing migration and homelessness by providing humanitarian aid, advocating for policy changes, and offering long-term support. These efforts are integral to addressing systemic challenges that affect vulnerable populations worldwide.

Equal rights continue to be a focal point of social and legal movements, as disparities in race, gender, and sexual orientation remain significant issues in many countries. Efforts to promote inclusivity and protect individual rights are ongoing and crucial for societal progress.

The Midwest has experienced a shift in economic investment, with increased focus on innovation, infrastructure development, and sustainability. These efforts aim to revitalize the region’s economy, create jobs, and ensure long-term growth.

The U1GPS Forum

Economic Inequality and the Wealth Gap: The Impact on Millennials and Gen Z

The End of TikTok? Balancing Privacy, Security, and Expression

Tackling Student Loan Debt: What’s Next for Our Generation?

Join the movement,
shape the future.

Providing unbiased

information on

issues that

matter

Issues that matter

Global peace is increasingly challenged by rising military expenditures, escalating conflicts, and mass displacement. These trends strain international stability and highlight the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian efforts.

The United States faces evolving threats to homeland security, from border management and immigration surges to cyberattacks and domestic extremism. These challenges demand modernized infrastructure, data transparency, and coordinated national strategies.

Economic indicators such as inflation, interest rates, banking fees, and national debt levels significantly impact the financial well-being of individuals and the country's fiscal health.

As the U.S. workforce faces rapid technological change, the demand for upskilling and reskilling is critical to ensuring economic stability. Meanwhile, the debate surrounding sustainable wages continues to grow, with advocates pushing for increased wages to match inflation and cost of living.

Access to affordable housing, reliable transportation, and nutritious food remains a significant challenge for many Americans. These critical issues are intertwined with socioeconomic inequality, affecting overall quality of life and economic mobility.

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education plays a crucial role in preparing future generations for the evolving job market. Increased investment in STEM fields is essential to address global challenges such as climate change, healthcare, and technological innovation.

Faith-based organizations play a vital role in addressing migration and homelessness by providing humanitarian aid, advocating for policy changes, and offering long-term support. These efforts are integral to addressing systemic challenges that affect vulnerable populations worldwide.

Equal rights continue to be a focal point of social and legal movements, as disparities in race, gender, and sexual orientation remain significant issues in many countries. Efforts to promote inclusivity and protect individual rights are ongoing and crucial for societal progress.

The Midwest has experienced a shift in economic investment, with increased focus on innovation, infrastructure development, and sustainability. These efforts aim to revitalize the region’s economy, create jobs, and ensure long-term growth.

The U1GPS Forum

Economic Inequality and the Wealth Gap: The Impact on Millennials and Gen Z

The End of TikTok? Balancing Privacy, Security, and Expression

Tackling Student Loan Debt: What’s Next for Our Generation?

Join the movement, shape the future.

Join the movement,
shape the future.