Bill Gates says he's still optimistic about the world's future but raises three key questions

Bill Gates wrote that he remains optimistic about global progress thanks to advances in technology and health, while noting three concerns that could change the trajectory: a projected rise in child deaths, cuts to aid, and risks from artificial intelligence.

Bill Gates wrote in a recent blog post that he remains optimistic about the world's future despite current challenges and political polarization. He pointed to decades of gains in technology and global health as reasons for that optimism. Gates said he expects further improvements over the next two decades, particularly as artificial intelligence accelerates innovation. He also said his optimism now comes with caveats tied to several specific concerns. Key points: - The article reports a projection that deaths of children under age five could rise by about 200,000 in 2025, the first increase in 25 years, and Gates described that projection as his greatest upset about current progress. - Gates linked the projected rise in child deaths in part to cuts in global aid spending by leading governments, including the U.S. - He said continued improvement in global living standards depends partly on wealthy countries and individuals re-committing resources; the article notes Gates announced plans in May 2025 to increase his charitable giving and pledged to give away virtually all of his wealth by 2045, with Bloomberg estimating his wealth at $118 billion. - Gates highlighted artificial intelligence as a force for medical, educational, agricultural and other advances, citing AI work on Alzheimer’s research, cancer, and educational tutoring. - He also warned about two AI-related risks—use by malicious actors and disruption to the job market—and said governments and industry should be deliberate about how AI is developed, governed, and deployed. Summary: Gates views technology and global health advances as central to future progress but says three concerns—the projected rise in child mortality, reductions in aid budgets, and AI-related risks—could alter that trajectory. Undetermined at this time.