This post was inspired by one I read concerning "Why don't I get a messge when someone declares war?"
I suggest the role of GNN be expanded to improve the player's situational awareness. Every military watchcenter I've ever been in has CNN going 24x7. GNN could do the same for us.
GNN could report: Declarations of war, Alliances, Invasions, Colonization, Outcome of large battles, Changes in govt type. More??
In addition to providing good game intel, I think it would also add to game atmosphere.