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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Push Urging Trump Administration to Exempt Seasonal Firefighters from Federal Hiring Freeze

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 14 of her Senate colleagues in a letter urging the Trump Administration to exempt seasonal firefighters from the federal hiring freeze. Reports emerged last week indicating that the federal funding freeze is preventing the hiring and onboarding of seasonal firefighters, a workforce that already struggles with recruitment and retention. This comes as the West continues to be ravaged by deadly wildfires.
    “We write today following reports that hiring and onboarding for federal seasonal firefighters has stopped due to the Trump Administration’s federal hiring freeze,” wrote the Senators. “We are extremely concerned to hear that this is happening across the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service ahead of what’s expected to be another devastating wildfire year.”
    “Although there is an urgent need to hire more federal firefighters, the Trump Administration’s hiring freeze does the opposite and is pausing hiring at a critical time for this already understaffed workforce,” they continued. “We urge you to put the safety of families and communities across the country first and allow the federal seasonal firefighter hiring process to continue without delay.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a leader in ensuring Nevadans have access to the federal resources needed to prepare for, stay safe during, and recover from wildfires. Last year, legislation she helped introduce to improve wildfire readiness and response passed favorably out of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. In addition, Senator Rosen has previously joined her colleagues in asking the White House for federal funds to help Nevada fight wildfires and extreme drought.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Tulsi Gabbard Ahead of Confirmation Vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    Published: February 11 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, released the following statement ahead of the Senate’s vote to confirm Tulsi Gabbard to be Director of National Intelligence (DNI): 
    “The safety of our communities and America’s national security should be a top priority for any senator. Therefore, I simply cannot support Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination to be Director of National Intelligence. The person filling this role serves as one of the principal advisors to the President on national security matters, is trusted to safeguard our nation’s most sensitive secrets, and leads 18 intelligence agencies composed of men and women who have dedicated their lives to the safety and security of the United States. Tulsi Gabbard is not the right person to hold this critical position, especially at a time when we are facing threats from a rising China, Russia, Iran, and other bad actors around the world. Gabbard’s previous praise of authoritarians like Vladimir Putin and Bashar al-Assad and her support for Edward Snowden show a deep lack of judgement and raise significant questions about her ability to do this job. I worry that allies will be more reluctant to share critical information with the U.S. if people like Gabbard hold key intelligence posts. Many of my Republican colleagues share these concerns and have expressed deep reservations behind closed doors about her holding this position; if they confirm her to this post, it will be yet another example of their inability to stand up to President Trump in defense of our national security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: PREPARED REMARKS: Sanders on the Senate Floor: “What the Oligarchs Really Want”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today gave remarks on the floor of the Senate regarding how Elon Musk and his fellow oligarchs are waging a war on the working class of America.
    Sanders’ remarks, as prepared for delivery, are below and can be watched HERE:
    M. President, we are living in an extremely dangerous time. Future generations will look back at this moment – what we do right now – and remember whether we had the courage to defend our democracy against the growing threats of oligarchy and authoritarianism. They will remember whether we stood with President Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg who in 1863, looking out at a battlefield where thousands died in the struggle against slavery and stated that; “this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom – and that a government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth.” Do we stand with Lincoln’s vision of America or do we allow this country to move to a government of the billionaires, by the billionaires and for the billionaires?
    But it’s not just oligarchy that we should be concerned about, and the reality that the 3 richest people in America now own more wealth than the bottom half of our society – 170 million people. It’s not just that the gap between the very rich and everyone else is growing wider, and that we have more income and wealth inequality today than we’ve ever had.
    It is also that we are looking at a rapid movement, under President Trump, toward authoritarianism. More and more power resting in fewer and fewer hands.
    M. President, as we speak, right now, Elon Musk, the richest man in the world, is attempting to dismantle major agencies of the federal government which are designed to protect the needs of working families and the disadvantaged. These agencies were created by the U.S. Congress and it is Congress’ responsibility to maintain them, reform them or end them. It is not Mr. Musk’s responsibility. What Mr. Musk is doing is patently illegal and unconstitutional – and must be stopped.
    M. President. Two weeks ago, President Trump attempted to suspend all federal grants and loans – an outrageous and clearly unconstitutional act. As I hope every 6th grader in America knows, under the Constitution and our form of government the president can recommend legislation, he can support legislation, he can veto legislation, but he does not have the power to unilaterally terminate funding passed by Congress. It is Congress, the House and the Senate, who control the purse strings.
    But it’s not just Congress that’s under attack. It’s our judiciary.
    This weekend, the Vice President, a graduate of Yale Law School, who clerked for a Supreme Court Justice, said that: “judges aren’t allowed to control the executive’s legitimate power.” Really? I thought that one of the major functions of the federal courts is to interpret our Constitution and, when appropriate, serve as a check on unconstitutional executive power.
    Mr. Musk, meanwhile, has proposed that “the worst 1% of appointed judges be fired every year,” and demanded the impeachment of judges that have blocked him from accessing sensitive Treasury Department files. No doubt, under Mr. Musk’s rule, it will be him and his billionaire friends who determine who the “worst” judges are. And no, Mr. Musk, you don’t impeach judges who rule against you. You may or may not know this, but under the U.S. Constitution, we have a separation of powers, brilliantly crafted by the founding fathers of this country in the 1770s.
    So, we are seeing an organized attack on Congress and the courts.
    But Trump and his friends aren’t just trying to undermine two of the three pillars of our constitutional government – Congress and the courts. They are also going after the media in a way that we have never seen in the modern history of this country.
    Every member of Congress will tell you that people in the media, and media organizations, are not perfect. They, like everyone else, make mistakes every day. But I hope that every member of Congress understands that you cannot have a functioning democracy without an independent press – non-intimidated journalists who can write it and say it the way they see it. And in that regard, I want to remind my colleagues what this president has done in recent months.
    President Trump has sued ABC and received a $15 million settlement. He has sued Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, and received a $25 million settlement. He has sued CBS, and its parent company Paramount, is apparently in negotiations over a settlement. He has sued the Des Moines Register, and his FCC is now threatening to investigate PBS and NPR.
    In other words, we have a President of the United States who is using his power to go after media in this country who are saying and doing things he doesn’t like. How are we going to have an independent media if journalists are looking over their shoulders, fearful that their reporting will trigger a lawsuit from the most powerful man in the world?
    M. President. Now is the time to ask a very simple question. What do Mr. Musk, Mr. Trump and their fellow billionaires really want? What is their endgame?
    And in my view, the answer is not complicated. It is not novel. It is not new. It is what ruling classes throughout history have always wanted and have always believed is theirs by right: more power, more control and more wealth. And they are determined to not allow democracy and the rule of law to get in their way.
    For Mr. Musk and his fellow oligarchs, the needs, the concerns, the ideas, the dreams of ordinary people are simply an impediment to what they, the oligarchs, are entitled to. That is what they really believe.
    This is not the first time we’ve seen this in our country’s history.
    In pre-revolutionary America, before the 1770s, the ruling class of that time governed through a doctrine called the “divine right of kings,” the belief that the King of England was an agent of God, God appointed him, and he was not to be questioned by mere mortals.
    In modern times we no longer have the “divine right of kings.” What we NOW have is an ideology being pushed by the oligarchs which says that as very, very wealthy people – often self-made, often the masters of revolutionary new technology and as “high-IQ individuals,” it is THEIR absolute right to rule. In other words, the oligarchs of today are our modern-day kings.
    And it is not just power that they want. Despite the incredible wealth they have they want more, and more and more. Their greed has no end. Today, Mr. Musk is worth $402 billion, Mr. Zuckerberg is worth $252 billion and Mr. Bezos is worth $249 billion. With combined wealth of $903 billion, these 3 people own more wealth than the bottom half of American society — 170 million people.
    Not surprisingly, since Trump was elected, their wealth has soared. Elon Musk has become $138 billion richer, Zuckerberg has become $49 billion richer and Bezos has become $28 billion richer – since Election Day.
    Meanwhile, while the very rich become much richer, 60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, 85 million are uninsured or under-insured, 25% of seniors are trying to survive on $15,000 or less, 800,000 are homeless and we have the highest rate of childhood poverty of almost any major country on earth. And real, inflation adjusted wages for the average American worker have been stagnant for 50 years.
    Do you think the oligarchs give a damn about these people? Trust me, they don’t. Musk’s decision to dismember U.S. AID means that tens of thousands of the poorest people around the world will go hungry or die of preventable diseases.
    But it’s not just abroad. Here in the United States they’ll soon be going after the healthcare, nutrition, housing, and educational programs that protect the most vulnerable people in our country – all so that Congress can provide huge tax breaks for them and their fellow billionaires. As modern-day kings, who believe they have the absolute right to rule, they will sacrifice, without hesitation, the well-being of working people to protect their privilege.
    Further, they will use the enormous media operations they own to deflect attention away from the impact of their policies while they “entertain us to death.” Mr. Musk owns twitter. Mr. Zuckerberg owns Meta – which includes Facebook and Instagram – and Mr. Bezos owns the Washington Post. Further, they and their fellow oligarchs, will continue to spend huge amounts of money to buy politicians in both major political parties.
    Bottom line: The oligarchs, with their enormous resources, are waging a war on the working class of this country, and it is a war they are intent on winning.
    Now, I am not going to kid you — the problems this country faces right now are serious and they are not easy to solve. The economy is rigged, our campaign finance system is corrupt and we are struggling to control climate change — among many other important issues.
    But this is what I do know:
    The worst fear that the ruling class in this country has is that Americans — Black, White, Latino, urban and rural, gay and straight, young and old — come together to demand a government that represents all of us, not just the wealthy few.
    Their oligarch’s nightmare is that we will not allow ourselves to be divided up by race, religion, sexual orientation or country of origin and will, together, have the courage to take them on.
    Will this struggle be easy? Absolutely not.
    And one of the reasons that it will not be easy is that the ruling class of this country will constantly remind you that THEY have all the power. They control the government, they own the media.
    But our job right now, in these difficult times, is to not forget the great struggles and sacrifices that millions of people have waged over the several centuries to create a more democratic, just and humane society. Think about what people THEN were saying.
    Overthrowing the King of England to create a new nation and self-rule. Impossible.
    Establishing universal suffrage. Impossible.
    Ending slavery and segregation. Impossible.
    Granting workers the right to form unions and ending child labor. Impossible.
    Giving women control over their own bodies. Impossible.
    Passing legislation to establish Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, a minimum wage, clean air and water standards. Impossible.
    In other words, as Nelson Mandela told us, everything is impossible until it is done.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Colleagues Push Trump Administration to Exempt Seasonal Firefighters From Federal Hiring Freeze

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Colleagues Push Trump Administration to Exempt Seasonal Firefighters From Federal Hiring Freeze

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) joined Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and 13 other Democratic Senators in urging senior Trump Administration officials to reverse the hiring and onboarding freeze of federal seasonal firefighters that threatens the safety of communities in California and across the nation. The Trump Administration’s January 20 hiring freeze of federal civilian employees inexplicably did not exempt federal seasonal firefighters, despite exempting other critical public safety personnel.
    Federal seasonal firefighters risk their lives to protect communities and save lives. This hiring freeze is particularly dangerous as we ramp up staffing and training ahead of peak wildfire season. While Padilla secured a temporary pay raise for wildland firefighters in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, recruitment and retention remain significant challenges as firefighters work long hours with insufficient pay. The attrition rate of firefighters at the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has been 45 percent over the past four years — making the hiring freeze at USFS, the Bureau of Land Management, and the National Park Service all the more dangerous.
    “The Administration must not sacrifice the safety of the American people for the benefit of implementing a political agenda,” wrote the Senators. “We urge you to immediately reverse course, begin hiring and onboarding seasonal firefighters again, and continue supporting and growing the federal firefighting workforce.”
    “The bottom line is this: pausing the hiring and onboarding of federal seasonal firefighters — while historic wildfires destroy communities and upend livelihoods across the West — is simply irresponsible and dangerous,” continued the Senators. “We will be woefully unprepared to fight the fires to come and instead will continue to see record levels of damage, ultimately costing communities and taxpayers even more at a time when the cost of living is already too high.”
    Wildfires are increasing in frequency and destructiveness in California and across the nation. Last month, the devastating Southern California fires, including the Palisades and Eaton Fires, burned over 57,000 acres and destroyed over 16,200 structures, claiming the lives of at least 29 victims. Nationally, over 64,800 fires burned 9 million acres in 2024, up from approximately 56,500 wildfires and 3 million acres in 2023. The rise in catastrophic wildfires demands even more seasonal firefighter hiring — not a freeze.
    In addition to Senators Padilla and Rosen, the letter was also signed by Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
    Senator Padilla has consistently pushed to protect our wildland firefighting force. Last month, Padilla reintroduced the bipartisan Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act to protect the pay raise he secured for wildland firefighters in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In 2023, Padilla and a bipartisan group of Senators urged Senate leadership to avoid mass resignations within the wildland firefighter ranks by ensuring the prompt passage of their bipartisan legislation. Padilla and a bipartisan group of Senators also urged the Biden Administration to establish a special pay rate for federal wildland firefighters to prevent staffing shortages and strengthen wildfire response efforts in 2022. Following that request, the Administration announced a temporary pay raise. Additionally, Padilla’s Wildfire Emergency Act, announced last week, would establish a prescribed fire-training center in the West and authorize grants to support training the next generation of foresters and firefighters, among other important fire mitigation efforts.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Burgum, Acting Secretary Washington, and Acting Director Ezell:
    We write today following reports that hiring and onboarding for federal seasonal firefighters has stopped due to the Trump Administration’s federal hiring freeze. We are extremely concerned to hear that this is happening across the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service ahead of what’s expected to be another devastating wildfire year. The Administration must not sacrifice the safety of the American people for the benefit of implementing a political agenda. We urge you to immediately reverse course, begin hiring and onboarding seasonal firefighters again, and continue supporting and growing the federal firefighting workforce.
    President Trump’s January 20th memorandum ordered a hiring freeze for all federal civilian employees. It also explicitly exempted public safety personnel from this freeze and allowed the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to grant further exemptions. We are appalled that federal seasonal firefighters are not already exempted, given the critical role they play in public safety throughout our communities. Federal seasonal firefighters are brave public servants who risk their lives to protect those around them. They work long hours in dangerous environments to not only fight fires on private, public, and Tribal lands, but also carry out hazardous fuels management, which is crucial to preventing and mitigating the effects of future fires.
    Wildfires are increasing in frequency and destructiveness in the U.S., necessitating even greater seasonal firefighter hiring. In 2024, over 64,800 wildfires occurred across the country, which is up from approximately 56,500 in 2023. Additionally, fires burned nearly 9 million acres in 2024, compared to only 3 million in 2023. Such fires also no longer stick to a particular season, meaning that we must be prepared 365 days per year to fight fires, putting even more stress and strain on a workforce that desperately needs additional support and higher pay. While the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law led to some small increases from the 18,700 seasonal and career federal firefighters we had in 2022, this investment is still not meeting our current wildfire needs.
    Although there is an urgent need to hire more federal firefighters, the Trump Administration’s hiring freeze does the opposite and is pausing hiring at a critical time for this already understaffed workforce.
    On top of this, firefighter retention continues to be a problem, with reports indicating that the attrition rate of firefighters at the Forest Service has been 45 percent over the past four years. We therefore need to focus on recruitment and retention of this critically important workforce, rather than place more uncertainty within it through an arbitrary freeze. The federal seasonal firefighter hiring process is already time consuming, and we don’t need to delay it further with more bureaucratic red tape.
    The bottom line is this: pausing the hiring and onboarding of federal seasonal firefighters – while historic wildfires destroy communities and upend livelihoods across the West – is simply irresponsible and dangerous. We will be woefully unprepared to fight the fires to come and instead will continue to see record levels of damage, ultimately costing communities and taxpayers even more at a time when the cost of living is already too high. We urge you to put the safety of families and communities across the country first and allow the federal seasonal firefighter hiring process to continue without delay. Every moment that we wait puts lives and livelihoods at greater risk.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Demand Answers for American Consumers, Military Families After Trump Admin Illegally Shutters Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    This weekend, the administration froze all Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s supervision and enforcement activity
    Illegally closing the agency will leave American consumers, military families vulnerable to being ripped off
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper joined nine Senate colleagues to call on Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to end his directive freezing all supervisory and enforcement action at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Vought also currently serves as the CFPB’s acting director.
    The CFPB defends American consumers against predatory lending and unfair practices like junk fees. It has returned $20 billion to American consumers since its establishment in 2011.
    Congress tasked the agency with enforcing the Military Lending Act (MLA), which protects active-duty service members and their dependents from abusive lending. The Trump administration’s stop work order exposes military families to steep interest rates, junk fees, and other abuses.
    “This decision leaves all Americans susceptible to predatory lending and other abusive practices, but in particular, it eliminates protections that prevent servicemembers from being exploited,” the senators wrote. “This funding, supervision, enforcement, and communications freeze will hit military families especially hard.”
    To date, the CFPB has successfully resolved 39 cases – including six MLA violations – involving service members and veterans, returning $363 million to victims. Multiple MLA cases are still being considered in court and the freeze will undermine these cases and weaken service member protections overall.
    The senators continued, “We request that the CFPB continue to supervise and investigate violations of the consumer financial protection laws and take forceful enforcement actions against lenders that violate the law, especially when it comes to predatory lending that harms our military readiness.”
    Hickenlooper previously chaired the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety and Data Security in the 118th Congress.  Full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government welcomes multibillion-pound Heathrow investment expected to secure thousands of steel jobs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Government has welcomed a multibillion-pound investment programme from Heathrow Airport which will help secure UK steel jobs.

    • Heathrow Airport announces new multibillion-pound investment programme to expand airport, including new terminal buildings, aircraft stands, passenger infrastructure and work towards its third runway.
    • Government welcomes major vote of confidence from Heathrow in its growth mission after backing a third runway, expected to secure thousands of steel jobs across the UK.
    • Heathrow signs the UK Steel Charter and commits to using UK-made steel for its construction projects wherever possible, giving a major boost to the sector.

    The Government has welcomed a new multibillion-pound investment programme from Heathrow Airport, which is expected to secure thousands of UK steel jobs across the country by driving a significant increase in demand for UK-made steel.

    In the latest in a series of UK investment wins, Heathrow will invest billions in a new expansion programme for new terminal buildings, aircraft stands, passenger infrastructure and its third runway plans, marking a major vote of confidence in the Government’s plan for growth after the Chancellor confirmed the government’s backing for Heathrow’s expansion last month.

    At an event hosted at British Steel’s Scunthorpe plant today (12 February) Heathrow will also sign the UK Steel Charter, which signals the airport’s commitment to use UK-made steel wherever possible as part of its investment programme.

    The commitment represents a major win for the steel industry and will help secure thousands of existing steel jobs both at Scunthorpe and across the country. It will bring a huge increase in demand for UK-made steel to supply Heathrow’s expansion project.

    By its completion in 2008, the construction of Heathrow Terminal 5 had required 80,000 tonnes of steel, and estimates suggest construction of a third runway could require 400,000 tonnes.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones is expected to give a keynote speech at Heathrow’s launch event today to welcome the announcement as a major step forward in the Government’s growth mission, with new investment crucial to kickstarting the UK’s economic growth and putting more money in people’s pockets, delivering on the Plan for Change.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones is expected to say:

    This investment is the latest in a long line of wins which our Plan for Change has helped deliver, and not only secures thousands of jobs but marks a major vote of confidence in our homegrown steel sector and this government’s Industrial Strategy.

    Driving demand for UK-made steel is a crucial part of our upcoming Steel Strategy, and by signing the Steel Charter Heathrow will give a huge boost to steelmaking communities across the UK and help us kickstart economic growth.

    Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said:

    Expanding capacity at Heathrow is a key part of accelerating economic growth – and today’s announcement is great news for British business.

    It is real show of support for domestic steel production and supply chains across the UK. As further infrastructure projects are given the green light, many more opportunities can be seized to boost British business and drive forward growth.

    Gareth Stace, Director-General, UK Steel said:

    The UK steel industry welcomes Heathrow’s multi-billion-pound investment programme, a major boost for British businesses and a clear signal that the UK is open for growth. This transformative investment will upgrade vital infrastructure, create jobs, and strengthen the UK’s position as a global hub for trade and travel.

    As part of this commitment, Heathrow has pledged to maximise the use of UK-made steel with the UK Steel Charter, ensuring that the benefits of this project are felt across the country. British steelmakers produce world-class, high-quality products that support major infrastructure, and Heathrow’s decision to prioritise domestic steel and British business reinforces the strength and resilience of the UK supply chain.

    This is a vote of confidence in British manufacturing, supporting skilled jobs, driving investment, and helping to build a stronger, more sustainable economy.

    Heathrow’s new investment follows the Chancellor announcement of the Government’s full backing of a third runway expansion in her recent Growth Speech where she pledged to go further and faster to kickstart the UK’s economic growth.

    The Government has been clear that a third runway could add billions to a better-connected UK economy, deliver cheaper air fares and fewer delays, and drive UK exports and investment to new heights.

    According to new research from the consultancy Frontier Economics, a third runway at Heathrow Airport could increase the UK’s potential GDP by almost 0.5% directly by 2050, with over 60% of that increase going to areas outside London and the South East.

    Using UK-made steel on construction at Heathrow will also give a significant boost to the UK’s steel industry for the long term, which already supports over 75,000 jobs and contributes almost £2 billion a year to the economy.

    Background:

    • Current signatories to the UK Steel Charter include National Highways, the Railway Industry Association, Renewable UK and Sizewell C. The full list is available here: https://www.makeuk.org/about/uk-steel/uk-steel-charter-homepage/our-signatories-page
    • For further details on Heathrow’s investment announcement, please contact Chris Anderson, Press Officer at chris.anderson@heathrow.com, 07788561635

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    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Reaching for the stars: ‘We know the answers’ to support women in STEM

    Source: United Nations 4

    11 February 2025 Women

    Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) are crucial to economic growth – yet gender inequality in these fields remains widespread. 

    “Despite the progress, women still make up only one-third of the global scientific community and face significant barriers in funding, publishing and leadership roles in STEM,” said Secretary-General António Guterres in his message for the day.

    As the world marks the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February, the need to remove these barriers is more urgent than ever.

    This year’s theme, Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science, highlights the importance of empowerment and ensuring women have equal access to opportunities.

    The importance of education

    Education is key to achieving gender equality in STEM, yet 122 million girls worldwide are currently out of school, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

    Even for those who receive formal education, gender stereotypes and societal expectations discourage many from pursuing scientific careers.

    At the 10th anniversary celebration, President of the General Assembly, H.E. Philémon Yang, emphasised the need for action: “As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies reshape the economy, women and girls must have the skills to seize these opportunities.”

    He pointed out that progress has stalled over the past decade, with only 15 percent of young female graduates choosing STEM disciplines, compared to 35 percent of their male peers.

    Overcoming barriers

    The lack of female participation, particularly in artificial intelligence, results in biased technologies and reinforces inequality, explained Mr. Guterres.

    Moreover, more diversity in STEM would not only create fairer systems but also drive economic growth.

    The World Economic Forum estimates that doubling the number of women in the technology workforce by 2027 could add 600 billion euros to the global economy.

    To address these challenges, UNESCO and UN Women call for gender-sensitive teacher training, mentorship programs and greater investment in STEM education for girls.

    One small step for womankind

    A key highlight of this year’s event was an astronaut-led panel discussion at UN Headquarters in New York, featuring 16 female astronauts – nearly 20 per cent of all women astronauts worldwide.

    Among them was Amanda Nguyen, astronaut and founder of Rise, an organization advocating for sexual assault survivors.

    “Women survivors’ dreams still matter, even the outrageous ones, like flying to space,” she told the Assembly.

    With over 50 per cent of women faculty and staff in STEM having experienced sexual harassment, according to the National Institutes of Health, her words carried weight throughout the Assembly.

    Meanwhile, talking about her experience in space, former astronaut Dr. Cady Coleman explained that “the only people who are going to help you, are the people next to you”, emphasising that the international community needs to act in unison.

    Building the future

    This year’s event is a reminder that tackling global challenges – from climate change to public health – requires the full participation of women and girls in science.

    As the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action turns 30, global leaders are being urged to move beyond symbolic commitments and take concrete action to close the gender gap in STEM.

    “We know the solutions,” said Mr. Yang, calling for targeted policies and sustained investment in STEM education. “Let us not just mark these milestones – let us honour them with action,” he concluded.

    The recently adopted Pact for the Future emphasises science as a driver of gender equality, aiming to remove systemic barriers and open more opportunities for women in STEM.

    Soundcloud

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister to attend international security conference

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Defence Minister Judith Collins leaves today for Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference and hold a range of bilateral meetings.
    “In these times of rising geopolitical tension, open dialogue and defence diplomacy are more important than ever,” Ms Collins says.
    “I am looking forward to attending this annual conference, to meet face-to-face with my counterparts and to share New Zealand’s views on important security issues when I speak at it.”
    During the three-day conference Ms Collins will take part in a panel discussion on Connected Theatres: Europe and Asia Security Spheres<, and hold a number of bilateral meetings with some key counterparts. “We are an island nation that relies on a safe and interconnected world in order to prosper. The ongoing war in Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East and rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific are all matters which impact New Zealand,” Ms Collins says. “We are committed to reinvigorating our security relationships, to playing our part, and working with like-minded partners to uphold the international rules-based system and democratic values that are fundamental to our security and prosperity.” Ms Collins returns to New Zealand on 18 February.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac funding decision will increase medicines access

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour, and Health Minister Simeon Brown welcome Pharmac’s decision to fund medicines for a further five health conditions, including cancers, from 1 March 2025.

    “Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the government,” Mr Seymour says.  

    “Today represents another step forward for cancer patients as the $604 million uplift from the government continues to facilitate access to new treatments.  

    “Pharmac continues to show what it is capable of when given the support it needs. 

    Pharmac has today announced their decision to fund medicines for a further five health conditions, including cancers, from 1 March 2025. 

    The funding will:

    • Widen access to atezolizumab (Tecentriq) and bevacizumab (Vegzelma) for liver cancer that can’t be removed by surgery
    • Widen access to bevacizumab (Vegzelma) for advanced ovarian cancer
    • Fund a new brand of bevacizumab (Vegzelma)
    • Fund lanreotide for neuroendocrine cancers, bowel blockages caused by cancer, and for a growth disorder called acromegaly.

    “The early signs of Pharmac’s redirection remain positive, as expanding opportunities and access for patients and their families continue to be prioritised,” Mr Seymour says. 

    “I’m pleased to see Pharmac’s responsiveness to the voices of patients and their families by expanding access to more medicines for more groups. This decision reflects our commitment to a more adaptable and patient-centered approach.”

    Mr Brown says delivering better and faster access to cancer care in New Zealand has been a focus of this Government, which is why it is one of our five key health targets, and is able to deliver because of the Government’s $604 million investment in new cancer medicines.

    “As Minister of Health, I am focused on ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare. That means ensuring better access to more cancer medicines, better cancer management driven by our faster cancer treatment target, and earlier detection of cancers through screening programmes,” Mr Brown says.

    “It is encouraging to see improvement in our efforts to provide faster cancer treatment, with more patients receiving their first treatment within 31 days in the first financial quarter than in the previous quarter and more cancer treatments available.”

    “We want to build a world-class health system, and that requires world-class medicines,” Mr Seymour says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor McKee, General Officers, State Legislators, Gun Safety Advocates Call for Action on Assault Weapons Ban

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Published on Tuesday, February 11, 2025

    PROVIDENCE, RI — Today, Governor Dan McKee was joined by Lt. Governor Sabina Matos, Secretary of State Gregg Amore, General Treasurer James Diossa, legislators, and gun safety advocates to call for the passage of an assault weapons ban during this year’s legislative session. Governor McKee included a ban on assault weapons in his FY26 budget proposal, and legislation is being sponsored by Representative Jason Knight (D-Dist. 67, Barrington, Warren) and Senator Louis P. DiPalma (D-Dist. 12, Middletown, Little Compton, Newport, Tiverton).

    “Gun safety remains a crucial public health issue here in Rhode Island and across the country,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Together, we’ve made important progress in passing gun safety laws, but our work is not over. That is why I chose to include an assault weapons ban in my budget to help move this issue forward. For the safety of our communities—let’s finally get this done.”

    The ban would prohibit the manufacture, purchase, sale, transfer, and possession of certain assault weapons including certain semi-automatic shotguns, rifles, and pistols. It also levies criminal penalties for anyone convicted of violating the ban; and provides exemptions to the ban for law enforcement agencies, federally licensed firearm dealers, and individuals who lawfully possess an assault weapon on the effective date of the ban.

    The federal assault weapons ban expired in 2004 and has yet to be reauthorized by Congress. Currently, ten states have statutes that ban certain assault weapons.

    Over the past several years, Governor McKee has proudly signed several key pieces of gun safety legislation into law including bills to: ban large-capacity gun magazines, require the safe storage of firearms, raise the legal age to purchase firearms or ammunition from 18 to 21, and prohibit the open carry of any loaded rifle or shotgun in public. 

    “We have made great strides to keep our communities safe from gun violence, and we must keep that momentum going by passing a ban on assault weapons,” said Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos. “We have spent too long in fear of gun violence in our schools, in our places of worship, in our public spaces, and in our homes. This year, we can take action and get prevent these weapons of war from flowing into our communities.”

    “We deserve to move about our schools, places of worship, workplaces, and communities without fear of gun violence, and the simple truth is that assault weapons make gun violence even more deadly,” said Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore. “Once again, I’m glad to stand with my colleagues in government, advocates, and community members as we call for additional commonsense gun safety legislation here in our state, and I sincerely hope that this is the year we achieve our goal.”

    “There is no need for civilians to own and operate military-style weapons,” said Attorney General Peter F. Neronha. “Over the years, my Office has helped pass, strengthen, and enforce common sense gun laws that keep Rhode Islanders safer. Mass casualty events are far too common in the United States, and so often they involve assault weapons. Rhode Islanders deserve to go to the movies, or to a concert, and not fear for their lives. Let’s get this done.”

    “As a state and as a country we have become numb to gun violence. It barely registers in the headlines. But make no mistake, gun-related violence continues to have a real impact on Rhode Islanders,” said Treasurer James A. Diossa. “As Mayor of Central Falls, I heard the stories, witnessed the grief, and felt the pain of families whose lives were irrevocably altered by the pull of a trigger. And I still see it firsthand through Treasury’s Crime Victim Compensation Program, which offers well-needed financial assistance to victims and their families. I commend Governor McKee on taking bold action and including this ban in his budget proposal, and Representative Knight and Senator DiPalma for their tireless advocacy year after year.”

    “High-powered weapons like AR-style rifles are the preferred weapons of mass shooters. Scores of Americans have died at the hands of killers wielding these weapons. There is no reason they should be allowed to circulate in the community,” said Representative Jason Knight. “Of course making them illegal doesn’t mean that they will all disappear overnight, but allowing their legal sale needlessly endangers the public. We are not powerless against gun violence, and Rhode Islanders deserve more than thoughts and prayers as an antidote. This bill gives us a common-sense way to mitigate the damage from the modern-day scourge of mass shootings.”

    “Banning assault weapons is a long overdue, common-sense step to address the serious public health issue of gun violence in Rhode Island. Research clearly shows a ban will save lives and make our communities safer. It is supported by a large majority of legislators, by each of the state’s general officers, and by most Rhode Islanders,” said Senator Louis DiPalma. “Our neighbors in Connecticut and Massachusetts have implemented an assault weapons ban, as have one-fifth of all states. Our federal government has done so previously. Strong state-level leadership is more critically needed than ever before, and I am proud to be sponsoring this legislation.”

    “In the absence of federal legislation regulating assault weapons, in Rhode Island, we must take it upon ourselves to protect our residents from mass shootings by banning these uniquely dangerous weapons,” said Melissa Carden, Executive Director of RICAGV. “We are grateful to the Governor for his commitment to gun safety and we look forward to working with him, General Assembly leadership and bill sponsors Senator DiPalma and Representative Knight on this important legislation.”

    “Our lawmakers and Governor McKee supporting this bill to ban assault weapons in Rhode Island goes to show that they’re making our safety a priority. This isn’t just about my generation either, it’s about the next generation of kids who are sitting in kindergarten classrooms right now,” said Mia Tretta, a volunteer leader with the Brown University Students Demand Action chapter and and gun shot wound survivor from the shooting at Saugus High School in California. “This is what real leadership looks like. Not just taking action in the wake of tragedy, but stepping up to prevent a tragedy in the first place. The introduction of this bill is just the beginning, and we’re committed to getting this to the finish line.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Helping teachers learn what works in the classroom − and what doesn’t − will get a lot harder without the Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Nicole M. McNeil, Professor of Psychology, University of Notre Dame

    A U.S. flag and an Education Department flag fly outside the U.S. Department of Education building on Feb. 4, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Alex Wong/Getty Images

    The future of the Institute of Education Sciences, the nonpartisan research arm of the Education Department, is suddenly in jeopardy. The Department of Government Efficiency, a Trump administration task force led by Elon Musk, has announced plans to cancel most of the institute’s contracts and training grants.

    The institute’s annual budget is less that US$1 billion – or less than 1% of the Department of Education’s budget – but it advances education by supporting rigorous research and sharing data on student progress. It also sets standards for evidence-based practices and formalizes the criteria for evaluating educational research.

    In short, the Institute of Education Sciences identifies what works and what doesn’t.

    As cognitive scientists who engage in educational research, we believe this often overlooked institute is key to advancing national education standards and preventing pseudoscience from entering classrooms.

    Dissatisfaction with US education

    Getting education right can help address some of the nation’s biggest challenges, such as high school dropout rates and poverty.

    But throughout U.S. history, dissatisfaction with student achievement levels has spurred major education reform efforts.

    Russia’s launch of the Sputnik space satellite, for example, triggered the 1958 National Defense Education Act. That measure attempted to strengthen science and math instruction to bolster Cold War defense efforts.

    Concerns about educational inequality led to the 1965 Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which funded schools serving students from low-income families.

    After President Jimmy Carter created the Department of Education in 1979, small-government conservatives, including Ronald Reagan, pledged to abolish it.

    As president, however, Reagan appointed former education commissioner Terrel Bell as secretary of education. Bell convened the National Commission on Excellence in Education. And in 1983 it produced A Nation at Risk, a report that warned of “a rising tide of mediocrity” in schools.

    It motivated national leaders to push for higher academic standards.

    In 1997, growing alarm over many students’ poor reading levels led to the National Reading Panel, which emphasized evidence-based reading instruction.

    In response to continuing concern about U.S. education, President George W. Bush partnered with U.S. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy to pass the No Child Left Behind Act in 2002. The law attempted to raise standards by mandating testing and interventions for low-performing schools. It provided incentives for successful schools and punishment for failing ones.

    This law significantly improved achievement, particularly in math.

    President George W. Bush appears at the bill-signing ceremony of the No Child Left Behind Act at Hamilton High School in Hamilton, Ohio, on Jan. 8, 2002.
    Tim Sloan/AFP via Getty Images

    Institute of Education Sciences

    Just months after Congress approved the No Child Left Behind Act, it established the Institute of Education Sciences to provide independent education research, becoming the first federal agency dedicated to using scientific research to guide education policy.

    Before the institute, educational research was fragmented, ideologically driven and inaccessible to parents and teachers. Findings were buried in books or locked behind paywalls.

    The institute broke that cycle. Structured with statutory independence, it is led by a director and a board composed of researchers, not political appointees.

    It produces replicable results and makes them freely available to the public.

    For example, the What Works Clearinghouse, launched in 2003, provides educators with guidance on effective practices. A school board seeking to adopt a new curriculum can find answers on the site about effective approaches.

    The clearinghouse distills research into clear recommendations. It spares local decision-makers from having to wade through complex studies. The site also references original studies and offers descriptions for local decision-makers who want to examine the evidence for themselves.

    Since 2007, it has published 30 practice guides. They cover topics such as teaching fractions, improving reading and reducing high school dropout rates.

    These guides synthesize the best available evidence, rather than relying on one study, leader or political ideology.

    Yet, the clearinghouse may be one of the parts of the Institute of Education Sciences on the chopping block.

    Evidence increases freedom

    From the 20th-century belief that instruction should be tailored to students’ skull shape to the 1970s movement promoting unstructured learning in classrooms without walls, pseudoscience and fads have obstructed improvements in education.

    The Institute of Education Sciences protects educational freedom by countering these claims.

    Some argue that free markets should dictate educational choices. They believe parents and school boards will naturally gravitate toward effective programs while ineffective ones fade away.

    But education markets often reward programs with the best marketing, not the best results. Psychologists who study scientific thinking have documented how pseudoscientific programs gain traction through compelling narratives rather than evidence.

    Meanwhile, public trust in expertise is declining, and pseudoscientific products flood the market. Programs such as Brain Balance and Learning Rx thrive in the $2 billion brain training industry.

    Marketed directly to parents of children with learning difficulties, these products use slick advertising and claim to “rewire” children’s brains to boost learning. Families pay thousands for programs that lack credible, peer-reviewed evidence of lasting benefits.

    Programs designed by university scholars also aren’t immune to the allure of anecdote over hard data.

    Former Columbia professor Lucy Calkins downplayed the importance of teaching phonics, thus harming a generation of students’ reading development. Stanford professor Jo Boaler’s controversial ideas delayed Algebra I in some California schools until ninth grade and discouraged timed arithmetic practice.

    And Drug Abuse Resistance Education thrived for decades despite overwhelming evidence that it did not work.

    These examples reveal how well-intentioned but ineffective educational products gain traction through public appeal rather than rigorous research.

    The future of IES

    In 2007 the Office of Management and Budget awarded the Institute of Education Sciences the highest score on its program assessment rating tool, a distinction earned by only 18% of federal programs.

    But most Americans probably never heard of this.

    And that highlights the institute’s major weakness: insufficient emphasis on sharing its findings and practice guides with the public and policymakers.

    The institute would do well to publicize its findings more extensively so that parents and education leaders can better access rigorous research to improve education.

    Whatever changes are made to the Department of Education, preserving the institute’s role in providing research on what works best – and ensuring continuous exchanges between research and practice – will benefit the American public.

    Nicole M. McNeil has served as an investigator on projects funded by IES, including one current project on leveraging technology to improve children’s mathematical understanding. She has given invited talks to trainees in IES predoctoral training programs and has served on IES grant review and awards panels. She regularly supports educators in engaging with IES’s What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) and its Practice Guides as part of her capacity-building efforts to connect volunteer tutors to cognitive science through an AmeriCorps VGF grant.

    Robert Stuart Siegler has received funding from IES for four grants; the most recent of which ended in 2018. He also received funds from IES for heading the Fractions Practice Guide Panel and for writing a review for IES of findings from research that the institute funded.

    – ref. Helping teachers learn what works in the classroom − and what doesn’t − will get a lot harder without the Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences – https://theconversation.com/helping-teachers-learn-what-works-in-the-classroom-and-what-doesnt-will-get-a-lot-harder-without-the-department-of-educations-institute-of-education-sciences-247675

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Senate Floor Remarks on Director of National Intelligence Nominee Tulsi Gabbard

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    February 11, 2025

    As prepared for delivery

    Watch a video of Wyden deliver his remarks here

    Today, I will be speaking about the nomination of Tulsi Gabbard to be Director of National Intelligence and my reasons for opposing her confirmation.

    First, I believe the Senate must consider with this nomination the examples of blatant lawlessness of this administration.  At every turn, Donald Trump is attacking the rule of law, disregarding the constitutional role of the Congress, and trying to purge the civil servants who defend this country every day.  Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s unvetted minions are gaining access to some of the government’s most sensitive systems and records.  

    American democracy and national security are at stake and if the Senate is going to confirm nominees we need to know whether they will stand up for democratic principles, no matter what.

    So, at her hearing, I asked Ms. Gabbard what she would do if Donald Trump tried to illegally withhold funding from the Intelligence Community Inspector General.  This was hardly a hypothetical question.  Donald Trump has, in fact, sought to unilaterally cut off funding for a broad range of organizations, despite the money having been appropriated by Congress.  And it’s not just me saying this is illegal; the courts have ordered the administration to cut it out and resume the funding.  But when I asked Ms. Gabbard this question, she said – quote – “I don’t believe for a second President Trump would ask me to do something that would break the law.”  Well, he is breaking the law, and this country needs leaders who acknowledge that fact and stand up to him.

    My concerns about Ms. Gabbard are also based on her recent turn toward extreme partisanship.  Now other partisans have been confirmed to leadership positions in intelligence agencies.  George H. W. Bush was the head of the Republican National Committee and he was successful enough as Director of Central Intelligence that they literally named CIA Headquarters after him. Party affiliation is not the issue.  The problem is when partisanship distorts one’s views of intelligence matters.  Ms. Gabbard has written about a “coup” being perpetrated by the so-called “deep state” that includes, among others, the DNC, and also the FBI, the CIA, and – quote – “a whole network of rogue intelligence and law enforcement agents.”

    I have spent almost a quarter century as a member of the Intelligence Committee seeking to bring to light and stop government abuses across a range of programs and activities.  These conspiracy theories do not help the bipartisan reform movement.  They only serve to encourage a president who wants to tear down the entire Intelligence Community and replace it with loyalists who will commit whatever illegal and abusive acts he asks of them.

    So what happens next?  If Ms. Gabbard is confirmed, my first order of business will be to hold her to the commitments she made during her confirmation process.

    With regard to surveillance policy, she expressed her support for a warrant requirement for U.S. person searches of communications collected under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.  With Section 702 reauthorization up next year, DNI support for reforms such as these will be critical to protecting the privacy rights of Americans.

    Ms. Gabbard also confirmed that she has significant concerns about the constitutionality of several provisions of the PATRIOT Act.  

    Importantly, she opposed mandated backdoors into encrypted communications, which threaten both Americans’ privacy and national security.  As she stated during her hearing, “these backdoors lead down a dangerous path that can undermine Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights and civil liberties.”  We are living in a time of increasingly devastating cyber breaches, including the Salt Typhoon compromise of our telecommunications infrastructure.  The lesson from that hack was that surveillance capabilities designed for law enforcement will be targeted by foreign intelligence services.   In other words, there is simply no way for the government to mandate access to Americans’ encrypted communications and not also expose those communications to the government of China or other adversaries. 

    It’s alarming that just last week the press reported that UK officials insisted that Apple provide them a back door into files backed up to Apple’s iCloud service.  This is a development that threatens American national security and Americans’ privacy.  And that’s even before U.S. government officials come around, once again, asking for the same dangerous and irresponsible accesses.  That’s why Ms. Gabbard’s statement was so important and why, if she is confirmed, Congress needs to hold her, and the rest of America’s intelligence agencies, to it.

    During her confirmation process, Ms. Gabbard supported restrictions on the collection of communications records of journalists.  She endorsed the Biden Administration Justice Department’s policy prohibiting this collection except in very narrow circumstances, a policy she said was “essential to protecting press freedoms and maintaining the critical balance between national security and upholding the First Amendment.”  She also called for the codification of that policy.  

    I asked Ms. Gabbard about the collection of communications records of congressional members and staff, as was detailed in a Department of Justice Inspector General report released late last year.  She agreed that this spying on Congress was a “significant breach of the constitution and separation of powers,” and endorsed reforms to prevent it from happening again.  

    During this confirmation process, she confirmed her belief that the Government Accountability Office should audit the Intelligence Community to ensure it is not targeting Americans outside of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.   She also expressed support for the Public Interest Declassification Board, which is tasked with promoting transparency

    And finally, I asked Ms. Gabbard whether intelligence agency whistleblowers must have a clear path to the Senate Intelligence Committee and don’t need permission from agencies to talk to us.  She responded that the answer was “clearly yes.”  Given Donald Trump’s ongoing attacks on public servants defending the rule of law, the protection of whistleblowers may be one of the most important principles of all.

    In just three short weeks since his inauguration, here’s the checks and balances scoreboard on President Trump. He has illegally fired Inspectors General.  He has purged the three Democratic members of the independent Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, not only removing the most pro-privacy members but leaving the Board without enough members to function.  He has appointed or nominated people to carry out political retribution, including a nominee to be FBI Director who comes with his own published enemies list.  At the same time, Donald Trump has demonstrated thorough contempt for the security of Americans’ private information by granting Elon Musk’s people unsupervised access to the country’s most sensitive systems and databases.  

    So what will happen when he attempts to steamroll oversight and the rule of law and put the privacy and constitutional rights of all Americans at risk?  If she is confirmed, it will be up to Ms. Gabbard to stand up to him and stick to the principles and commitments she has expressed.  And it will be our responsibility to see that she does.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces the appointment of Canada’s new Fentanyl Czar

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Fentanyl is a lethal drug that has torn apart communities and families across Canada and the United States. The scourge of fentanyl must be wiped from the face of the Earth, its production must be shut down, and its profiteers must be punished. 

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Kevin Brosseau as Canada’s new Fentanyl Czar, effective immediately. 

    As Fentanyl Czar, Mr. Brosseau will work closely with U.S. counterparts and law enforcement agencies to accelerate Canada’s ongoing work to detect, disrupt, and dismantle the fentanyl trade. Mr. Brosseau brings extensive law enforcement experience, having served in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for over 20 years, including as Deputy Commissioner and top cop in Manitoba. Recently, as Deputy National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister, Mr. Brosseau navigated Canada’s most sensitive security challenges. His demonstrated expertise tackling drug trafficking, organized crime networks, and other national security threats will bring tremendous value to this position. 

    Canada is taking significant action to stop the production and trafficking of illegal fentanyl. We are adding new and expanded detection capacity at border entries to find illegal drugs and guns and shorten cargo container processing time. We are building a Canadian Drug Analysis Centre to analyze illegal drug samples and identify where and how these drugs are manufactured. We are deploying new chemical detection tools at high-risk ports of entry, new canine teams to intercept illegal drugs, and a new Precursor Chemical Risk Management Unit to better track precursor chemicals and distribution channels. In the 2024 Fall Economic Statement, we introduced strong measures such as steeper penalties and regulatory changes to fight financial crimes, including money laundering, that often enable fentanyl trafficking. 

    While less than 1 per cent of the fentanyl intercepted at the U.S. border comes from Canada, any amount of fentanyl is too much. With Canada’s $1.3 billion border plan, we are reinforcing our strong border and stopping the fentanyl trade – with new Black Hawk helicopters, drones, mobile surveillance towers, and nearly 10,000 frontline personnel working on protecting the border. As an important legal tool to enforce criminal investigations in Canada, we will also be listing organized crime cartels as terrorist entities under the Criminal Code. This listing will strengthen the RCMP’s ability to prevent and disrupt cartel activities in our country. 

    Last week, the Prime Minister signed a new intelligence directive, backed by $200 million in investment, that will give our security agencies more capacity to gather intelligence on transnational organized crime and share with our American partners and law enforcement across the continent. This complements joint law enforcement co-ordination efforts, including through the Canada-U.S. Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl, and money laundering.

    Quotes

    “Fentanyl is a lethal drug that must be eradicated from our communities. Today’s appointment of Kevin Brosseau as Fentanyl Czar will accelerate Canada’s efforts to detect, disrupt, and dismantle the fentanyl trade, in partnership with the United States. With an over 20-year career in public safety and national security including tackling drug trafficking and organized crime, Mr. Brosseau will bring tremendous value to this position, and his work will help keep Canadians safe.”

    “Canada needs a Fentanyl Czar who will co-ordinate between agencies, move quickly to tackle challenges, and bring over 20 years of RCMP experience to a crisis that is plaguing our communities. Between cities and provinces, as well as our international borders, this person will need to work with all levels of government, with credibility as a team player. Working closely with our American counterparts to disrupt and dismantle this illegal drug trade crossing our border, the Fentanyl Czar will need expertise in drug trafficking, organized crime networks, and other national security threats. Kevin Brosseau is that person.”

    Quick Facts

    • The Prime Ministerial Directive on Transnational Crime and Border Security directed the national security and intelligence community to stand up a Joint Operational Intelligence Cell as well as information sharing hubs between provinces, territories, and international partners, to bolster the detection and disruption the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit drugs, both within Canada and abroad.
    • Health Canada’s new Canadian Drug Analysis Centre will allow for more specialized analysis of synthetic drug samples. The analysis will go beyond identifying the components of a sample and look at forensic markers to help determine how and where these substances were manufactured.
    • Health Canada’s new Precursor Chemical Risk Management Unit will increase oversight over precursor chemicals and distribution channels as well as monitor emerging illegal drug trends.

    Related Product 

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Southern Lakes Sanctuary – Extensive predator trapping leads to 18 takahē released in the Rees Valley

    Source: Southern Lakes Sanctuary

    The 18 takahē released on to 18,000ha of leasehold land in the Rees Valley near Queenstown was made possible thanks to a major predator control effort three years in the making.

    Yesterday’s release of the 18 endangered flightless birds marked a major milestone for Southern Lakes Sanctuary, which led the land preparation in partnership with the custodians of the Rees Valley Station, Temple Peak Station and Mt Earnslaw Station, and supported by the Department of Conservation (DOC), Fulton Hogan and Ngāi Tahu.

    The land area – the largest leasehold site (not public conservation land) in NZ to accommodate wild takahē – has seen a huge number of pests removed since Southern Lakes Sanctuary (SLS) began working on this project in 2022. Prior to the environmental consortium’s arrival, there were just 139 traps in the valley. Since 2022, a total of 596 traps have removed 1947 predators, including feral cats, stoats and rats, and the traps have been checked 5722 times.

    Southern Lakes Sanctuary project director Paul Kavanagh says preparing the site for takahē has been a core focus for his team, but it requires ongoing resources to ensure the land is protected.

    “It’s deeply rewarding to see what these proactive measures can lead to, and we’re grateful to the Scott Family, who are excellent custodians of the land,” he says. “The upper Whakatipu catchment area has the potential to sustain a population of up to 500 birds, which could see more than double the national number in the Rees Valley alone within the next 10 years. However, to achieve this, we need to give these taonga the best fighting chance by continually decreasing predator numbers.”

    Rees Valley Station owner Iris Scott says it is truly magnificent to have takahē wandering the hills now.  

    “We already have some great species here, but to re-introduce wildlife is an excellent goal,” she says. “In a way, it’s quite validating to know that we have maintained this environment in a state that it is still a habitat, which species from the past, can return to.”

    The Rees Valley is a mix of alpine tussock grassland, which is the optimal landscape for the endemic species. Takahē forage on starchy leaf bases of tussock and tussock seeds. When snow is heavy during the winter months, the bird moves into forests and will feed on the underground rhizomes of the summer green fern.

    It is estimated between 70 – 80 takahē will inhabit the Rees Valley by the end of 2025, with two future takahē releases scheduled for March and September.

    DOC takahē recovery senior ranger Glen Greaves says the robust pest control in the Rees is reassuring.

    “Southern Lakes Sanctuary’s work to reduce predator numbers is a significant factor behind why we chose the Rees,” he says. “Without SLS’ proactive work, we wouldn’t have takahē in the area.”

    There are currently 528 takahē in New Zealand, with half of the population in the wild.

    To sustain the low predator numbers, ongoing funding is required to ensure takahē are protected from the future threat of mammalian predators. SLS’ work in the Rees Valley has been supported by RealNZ, Impact100, Lotteries, Stout Trust, Patagonia, QLDC, CLT, AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand and Heli Glenorchy.

    “The Rees Valley, which borders Mt Aspiring National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Area, is a strategically important site with the potential for total predator elimination. By removing pests in this area, we’re not only protecting takahē, but more than 15 threatened species including kea, pīwauwau/rock wren, pekapeka/bat and braided river birds,” Kavanagh adds.
     
    About Southern Lakes Sanctuary                                                            
    The Southern Lakes Sanctuary Trust that oversees this project is a consortium of six local groups that collectively represent 84 community groups, landowners, and businesses, who in turn have been working for many years to protect and restore the declining biodiversity of the Southern Lakes region. The consortium relies on the mahi of hundreds of committed and dedicated volunteers, throughout the district. Their tireless work, which has been quietly ploughing on for many years, is the foundation upon which the Southern Lakes Sanctuary is built. Donations to the Trust can be made at https://southernlakessanctuary.org.nz/get-involved/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Advocates to Fully Revoke Harmful Pesticide from Food Crops

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a multistate coalition of nine attorneys general in submitting a comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding EPA’s proposal to ban residue from the pesticide chlorpyrifos on only some common food crops, despite its known neurodevelopmental harms to children. EPA’s proposal would ban chlorpyrifos residue on 70 food crops, while allowing it on 11 others, specifically alfalfa, apple, asparagus, tart cherry, citrus, cotton, peach, soybean, strawberry, sugar beet, and spring and winter wheat. The California Department of Pesticide Regulation has banned the application of chlorpyrifos on all food crops in California since late 2020. However, chlorpyrifos residues threaten Californians’ health through certain imported foods.

    “The facts are clear: chlorpyrifos exposure poses a grave danger to a child’s health. This pesticide has no place in our food systems,” said Attorney General Bonta. “We cannot ignore the health implications and urge the EPA to fully eliminate this harmful pesticide.”   

    Chlorpyrifos is acutely toxic and is associated with neurodevelopmental harms in children, with prenatal exposures causing lower birth weight, reduced IQ, loss of memory, attention disorders, and delayed motor development. Acute exposure can cause sweating, salivation, vomiting, low blood pressure and heart rate, seizures, and death. Exposure occurs through food residues, drinking water contamination, and agricultural spray drift, and agricultural or chemical workers may be additionally exposed through chlorpyrifos manufacturing and handling.

    Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), EPA is required to show with reasonable certainty that aggregate exposure to chlorpyrifos from these crops will result in no harm. However, in this proposal, EPA improperly shifted its own duties under the FFDCA onto those seeking to have chlorpyrifos residues banned, claiming that there is no adequate data or scientific analysis to conclude that chlorpyrifos residue on the remaining 11 crops is unsafe.

    In the letter, the attorneys general urge EPA to ban chlorpyrifos residue for all food crops because EPA has not made an adequate determination of safety to support the chlorpyrifos residue allowed for the 11 listed crops. The attorneys general also challenge EPA’s toxicological analysis as inadequate because it fails to identify a level of chlorpyrifos exposure that is safe for children. 

    In sending today’s comment letter, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New York, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. 

    A copy of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Ordinary Delegation meeting – 17 February 2025, Brussels – Delegation to the EU-Albania Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee

    Source: European Parliament

    The Delegation for relations with Albania will meet on Monday, 17February from 16.00 until 17.30 in room SPINELLI 5G2.

    The Members of the Delegation will have an exchange of views on EU-Albania relations and on the status of accession negotiations with H.E. Mr Ferit HOXHA, Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the EU.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye – B10-0110/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Malik Azmani, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Sophie Wilmès, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0110/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0110/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0110/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye

    (2025/2546(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     – having regard to the European Charter of Local Self-Government

    – having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure

    1. whereas Sofya Alagas, mayor of Siirt, was dismissed from office on 29 January 2025 following her sentence of six years and three months in prison for alleged membership in the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK);
    2. whereas Hoşyar Sarıyıldız, mayor of Akdeniz Municipality, was taken into custody on 10 January 2025, on charges, inter alia, of membership in an illegal organization, followed by his referral for arrest on 13 January 2025; whereas, the both co-mayors, as well as four municipal council members, were dismissed and replaced with a state-appointed trustee;
    3. whereas on 12 January 2025, Riza Akpolat, the mayor of Istanbul’s central Besiktas district, was detained by police in an investigation into an alleged criminal organization suspected of rigging public tenders;
    4. whereas, on 30 October 2024, Ahmet Ozer, the mayor of Istanbul’s Esenyurt district from main opposition party CHP, was arrested for alleged membership in the PKK;
    5. whereas specific targeting of opposition politicians and mayors undermines the ability of the political opposition to exercise their rights and fulfil their democratic roles; is deeply concerned by continuous democratic backsliding in Türkiye;
    1. calls on the Turkish authorities to abolish the practice of dismissals of democratically elected mayors on politically motivated charges, ensuring that ineligibility of candidates is assessed prior to the elections and is based only on final, lawful and impartial criminal convictions; to allow eligible and elected representatives to freely exercise their mandates in line with the European Charter of Local Self-Government and to grant municipal councils the power to independently select replacement mayors in the event of a lawful dismissal, and only for the period until new representatives are legitimately elected in a new election;
    2. condemns Turkish Government’s decision to dismiss the democratically elected mayors of 10 municipalities and districts and to replace them with government trustees appointed by the Interior Ministry; regards this long-standing practice of appointing trustees as a blatant attack on the most basic principles of local democracy;
    3. calls on the HR/VP to consider imposing restrictive measures under the EU Human Rights sanction regime on the Turkish officials accepting to be trustees and on those nominating them;
    4. considers the decision of the Turkish government to return to this practice, after the last local elections of March 2024 as an indication, of its lack of commitment to fundamentally address the democratic shortcomings in the country;  remaining one of the constraints to deepening EU-Türkiye’s relationship.
    5. instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the EEAS, and the President, Government and Parliament of Türkiye and have it translated into Turkish.

     

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye – B10-0103/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Vladimir Prebilič, Mélissa Camara, Mounir Satouri, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Catarina Vieira, Maria Ohisalo, Erik Marquardt, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Ville Niinistö, Villy Søvndal
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0103/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye

    (2025/2546(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

      having regard to Rules 144 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas on 29 January elected Siirt Municipality Mayor Sofya Alağaş of the DEM Party was dismissed and sentenced to prison for alleged membership of the PKK when she was a journalist; whereas on 10 January elected Akdeniz Municipality co-mayors Hoşyar Sarıyıldız and Nuriye Aslan from the DEM Party and several City Council members were taken into custody in Mersin and later charged for alleged links to the PKK; whereas Ahmet Özer, mayor of Istanbul’s Esenyurt district from CHP party remains detained over alleged connections to the PKK; whereas the mayors were replaced by government trustees;

    B. whereas DEM Party won the the Siirt mayorship with 49.63% and the Akdeniz mayorship with 36,92% in the March 2024 local elections;

    C. whereas since 2016 successive Erdoğan governments have removed elected opposition mayors from 149 municipalities, mostly in the Kurdish southeast and replaced them with trustees; whereas since the March 2024 local elections 10 opposition mayors have been replaced by government appointees;

    1. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release, acquittal and reinstatement of elected mayor Sofya Alağaş and co-mayors Hoşyar Sarıyıldız and Nuriye Aslan and all other mayors arbitrarily arrested and dismissed;

    2. Condemns the Turkish authorities’ continuation of dismissing democratically elected mayors on bogus terrorism charges and replacing them with government appointees, which undermines democratic processes and violates the right to free and fair elections;

    3. Urges Turkish authorities to immediately cease and reverse repression of political opposition and respect the rights of voters to elect their chosen representatives in line with the recommendations of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe and the Venice Commission;

    4. Urges Türkiye to repeal Article 45, paragraph 1 added in 2016 to the Municipality Law and ensure that ineligibility of candidates is assessed prior to the elections and based on a final criminal conviction;

    5. Reminds Türkiye of its status as a candidate for European Union membership and its commitment to aligning with the EU acquis in all areas, including adherence to the rule of law and fundamental rights, as outlined in the Copenhagen criteria; 

    6. Calls on the European Commission, the HR/VP and Member States to raise the arrest and removal of opposition mayors as well as the take-over of municipalities with their Turkish counterparts;

    7. Calls on the European Commission and Council that financial assistance under IPA III and NDICI to Türkiye are strictly conditional upon the respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights and that sufficient funding is allocated to civil society;

    8. Calls on the HRVP to consider restrictive measures under the Global Human Rights Sanction Regime against Turkish officials responsible for the illegal removal of elected mayors and those functioning as government appointees to replace them;

    9. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the HR/VP, and the Government and Parliament of Türkiye, and asks that it be translated into Turkish language;

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Turkiye – B10-0124/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Assita Kanko, Alexandr Vondra
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0124/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Turkiye

     

    (2025/2546(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to its previous resolutions on Turkiye,

    – having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    A. Whereas a recent trend in Türkiye involves the dismissal of democratically elected mayors and their replacement with government-appointed administrators, as seen in the removal of Siirt’s mayor and similar actions in Akdeniz Municipality, and this pattern extends to the January 13, 2025, arrest of Beşiktaş Mayor Rıza Akpolat in a corruption probe focused on public tender manipulation, despite mayors lacking signing authority in such processes; whereas, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu also faces multiple legal challenges, including a potential political ban and a January 20 investigation for allegedly “threatening” prosecutor Akın Gürlek, alongside a defamation lawsuit from President Erdoğan demanding TRY 1 million in damages;

     

    B Whereas opposition municipal officials, particularly from pro-Kurdish parties, have faced frequent arrests and dismissals since the opposition’s victories in Turkiye‘s 2019 local elections, which they maintained in the 2024 polls;

     

    C Whereas the timing of these legal actions coincides with declining public support for the ruling party raising concerns about the use of judicial mechanisms for political purposes;

     

    D Whereas these systematic violations demonstrate a coordinated effort to use judicial and administrative mechanisms to dismantle political opposition, representing a serious threat to democratic governance and human rights, as the pattern of targeting opposition figures through legal mechanisms, while selectively applying justice, indicates a systematic abuse of state power to achieve political ends;

     

    E Whereas the systematic targeting of opposition mayors and political figures in Türkiye breaches international legal framework such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Articles 14, 22, and 25) through interference with rights to political participation, fair trials, and freedom of association; the Venice Commission’s standards on democratic governance through improper replacement of elected officials with appointees; and the European Charter of Local Self-Government (Articles 3, 7, and 8) by undermining local democratic authority and the exercise of elected representatives’ functions;

     

    1  Calls on the Commission to prepare an assessment of the systematic targeting of opposition politicians through judicial means, with particular focus on violations of the Copenhagen political criteria and establish an enhanced monitoring mechanism specific to the erosion of local democracy in Turkiye.

     

    2. Calls on the EEAS to establish a task force to monitor and report the persecution of opposition politicians, working closely with EU delegations in Turkiye to gather evidence and maintain detailed documentation of cases.

     

    3 Calls on the Venice Commission to issue an urgent opinion examining the systematic use of judicial measures against opposition politicians in Turkey, addressing the compatibility of mayoral dismissals with European democratic standards, the use of terrorism and corruption charges against opposition figures; and the practice of replacing elected officials with appointed administrators.

     

    4 Underlines the need to resume the Kurdish peace process;

     

    5 Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the EEAS, the Vice-President of the Commission/HRVP, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, Members of the Parliament and government of Türkiye.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Monitoring the Bêkou Trust Fund for the Central African Republic – E-002661/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Through the Bêkou Trust Fund[1], the EU has supported extensive health interventions across 15 districts in the Central African Republic, encompassing 167 health facilities primarily in rural and underserved areas, improving access to healthcare for approximately 35% of the population.

    Key outcomes include expanded access to healthcare, the provision of free healthcare services and improved availability of free medicines provided to vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children under five, victims of sexual violence and the indigent population.

    The fund also contributed to the construction and rehabilitation of pharmaceutical warehouses in underserved areas, strengthening storage capacity and the availability of medicines. These efforts significantly enhanced the availability of essential medicines in targeted health facilities.

    The supply and the distribution of essential medicines was an integral part of the health programme. For instance, the fund allocated EUR 7.3 million to medicine supplies, transport and storage.

    Medicines were procured and distributed by implementing partners, adhering to the EU’s quality standards for pharmaceuticals, to ensure safety and proper distribution.

    All this work was implemented in close cooperation with the Ministry of Health, through performance-based financing to empower local health structures, enhance accountability in medicine distribution, and increase service utilisation rates.

    To assess the efforts made under the fund, including in supplying and distributing medicines fairly and free of charge, the EU established a dedicated monitoring and learning system. It enabled the fund to monitor all actions and outputs financed by the interventions.

    • [1] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/programming/programmes/bekou-trust-fund_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Return of the Global Gateway project – E-002522/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU’s Global Gateway (GG)[1] aims to mobilise up to EUR 300 billion in public and private investments by 2027 through a mix of grants, loans and guarantees.

    Over 2021-2023, EUR 179 billion were mobilised — EUR 50 billion from the EU and EUR 129 billion from Member States[2], the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

    The GG strategy fosters sustainable investments to support the digital and green transitions, as well as sustainable development in the climate, energy, and transport sectors, and reinforces, health, and education systems.

    The GG Business Advisory Group was formed to assist the Commission to strengthen cooperation with the European private sector. EU delegations have also organised over 50 business forums, facilitating discussions between businesses and policymakers and enabling EU-national Business-to-Business interactions.

    The European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus and the GET.invest programmes mobilising renewable energy investments[3] provide support through European development financing partners. This is done through loans, equity, and grants (and also advisory services).

    The EU established 14 strategic partnerships for sustainable raw material value chains, supporting local processing, refining, skills development, and environmental standards, and endorsed several GG-related flagship projects in Africa, Central Asia and Latin America.

    Other key initiatives include the Hi-Bar guarantee with the EBRD, a blending facility with the Inter-American Development Bank, and the critical raw materials value chains facility, which enhances collaboration between the EU and partner countries on sustainable raw material development.

    • [1] Joint Communication to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Investment Bank The Global Gateway, JOIN(2021) 30 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52021JC0030
    • [2] Joint Communication on building sustainable international partnerships as a Team Europe, JOIN(2024) 25 final , https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/document/download/1e8e8afb-64eb-493c-9494-7e2e10796bf3_en?filename=joint-communication-building-sustainable-international-partnerships-as-team-europe_en.pdf
    • [3] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/programming/projects/getinvest-mobilising-renewable-energy-investments_enpa.eu

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Russia’s war on Ukraine: Forcibly displaced Ukrainian children – 11-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The invasion of Ukraine enters its 4th year in 2025, resulting in further displacement. On 17 March 2023, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Alekseyevna Lvova-Belova, Russian Presidential Commissioner for Children’s Rights. The pair are accused of the ‘war crime of unlawful deportation of population (children) and that of unlawful transfer of population (children) from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation’. According to the ICC, there are reasonable grounds to believe that President Putin ‘committed the acts directly, jointly with others and/or through others’, or that he failed to properly control ‘civilian and military subordinates who committed the acts, or allowed for their commission, and who were under his effective authority and control, pursuant to superior responsibility’. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, evidence has been collected about core international crimes committed against Ukrainian children. Multiple reports consider Russia to be in breach of the obligations set in several international treaties and instruments to which Russia is party, and of customary international law. It is well documented that, since the start of the invasion, certain categories of individuals, including women and children, have been disproportionately affected by the conflict. International organisations, institutional actors and civil society organisations have repeatedly warned about the great burden on children, including but not limited to trafficking, sexual exploitation, abduction and illegal adoption. Beyond the strictly legal consequences of the arrest warrant, some commentators argue that the arrest warrant against Putin may help to undermine the Russian leader’s war efforts, as the international community universally sees the abduction of children as unacceptable. No matter what the geopolitical arguments are, removing children from their families or from care facilities and forcibly transferring them is universally considered a reprehensible act of violence. This is an update of a 2023 publication written by Micaela Del Monte with Nefeli Barlaoura.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strengthening the EU’s competitiveness in the pharmaceutical sector – E-000468/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000468/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    The Draghi report highlights a growing competitiveness gap in the EU pharmaceutical sector, despite its global leadership in trade by value. While US-based companies continue to expand their market share, the EU is losing ground, particularly in the most dynamic segments.

    In 2022, only two of the ten best-selling biological medicines in Europe were marketed by EU companies, while six were from US-based firms. The EU also lags behind in market-exclusive products such as orphan medicines and advanced therapy medicinal products, areas that are crucial for future healthcare advancements.

    A key factor behind this trend is significantly lower investment in research and innovation. Public research and innovation spending on pharmaceuticals in the EU is less than half that of the United States, while private-sector investment is only about a quarter of US levels. This funding gap is limiting Europe’s ability to compete in high-value pharmaceutical innovation and commercialise breakthrough therapies.

    What measures does the Commission plan to implement to enhance investment in pharmaceutical research and innovation and ensure that the EU remains globally competitive in this critical sector?

    Submitted: 3.2.2025

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Support for viniculture in Greece – E-000471/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000471/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Georgios Aftias (PPE)

    In recent years, due to the high cost of cultivation, many young people have been deterred from becoming producers in the viniculture sector. More specifically, decentralised areas of Greece that rely on wine production, such as Samos, face development problems due to the high cost of cultivation. According to the Unified Winemaking Agricultural Cooperative of Samos, the decline in viniculture and the abandonment of vineyards is a fact that has very serious economic and environmental impacts.

    In light of the above,

    • 1.With what plan does the Commission intend to strengthen viniculture?
    • 2.Which European programmes can support the establishment of vineyards and for these vineyards to function as firebreaks?
    • 3.Is the provision of professional incentives to attract new winegrowers being considered?

    Submitted: 3.2.2025

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strengthening investment and competitiveness in EU telecom networks – E-000467/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000467/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    According to the Draghi report, ensuring full gigabit and 5G coverage across the EU requires an estimated investment of EUR 200 billion. However, Europe’s per capita investment in telecom infrastructure remains significantly lower than in other major economies, such as the United States and China.

    A key factor behind this investment gap is the fragmentation of the EU telecom market. With 34 mobile network operator groups across the Member States – compared to a handful in the United States or China – companies face higher fixed costs and struggle to scale efficiently.

    Additionally, this fragmentation limits the ability to capitalise on emerging technologies, including edge computing and network service innovations through application programming interfaces (APIs), where Europe currently lags behind.

    The EU’s cautious stance on telecom mergers has further contributed to market inefficiencies, preventing operators from achieving economies of scale and making large-scale infrastructure investments more challenging. Without a more coordinated and competitive telecom landscape, Europe risks falling behind in digital innovation and connectivity.

    What measures does the Commission plan to take to address market fragmentation, boost investment and enhance Europe’s position in next-generation network technologies?

    Submitted: 3.2.2025

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Hazardous PFAS substances in drinking water in Europe and lack of information in Greece – E-000470/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000470/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D)

    Recent studies highlight the presence of the ‘forever chemicals’ (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances – PFAS) at levels exceeding permissible limits in several European countries, such as France, Belgium and the Netherlands, raising concerns about the quality of drinking water and public health. However, in Greece there is a lack of systematic research and transparent information on the potential exposure of the population to these hazardous substances, while the European Commission has already stressed the importance of implementing Directive (EU) 2020/2184 on drinking water.

    Accordingly:

    • 1.What measures does the Commission intend to put in place to strengthen the monitoring and recording of PFAS levels in drinking water and food in the Member States, including Greece?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to ensure that citizens are informed and aware of the risks of PFAS and that controls are strengthened?
    • 3.Is there a European plan to promote and integrate innovative decontamination technologies in areas where increased concentrations of PFAS have been detected?

    Submitted: 3.2.2025

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring the sustainability of the InvestEU Programme – E-000469/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000469/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    The InvestEU programme, designed to stimulate private investment by means of an EUR 26.2 billion financial guarantee, has proven highly effective at mobilising funds. By the end of 2023, it had already generated EUR 218 billion in investment, with 65 % coming from private sources. However, high demand has led to concerns that the programme’s financial allocation will be insufficient to continue granting aid beyond 2025.

    With 80 % of the public guarantee already allocated to implementing partners such as the European Investment Bank and national development banks, the programme is approaching its financial limits at a critical time for Europe’s economic recovery and green and digital transitions. Without further resources, InvestEU may struggle to maintain its role in leveraging private investment for strategic EU priorities.

    • 1.Given these challenges, what measures does the Commission plan to implement to ensure the continuity and financial sustainability of InvestEU beyond 2025?
    • 2.Are there plans to increase its budget or explore alternative funding mechanisms to maintain investment momentum?

    Submitted: 3.2.2025

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Finnish forests are changing from carbon sinks to sources of CO2 emissions – E-000375/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000375/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Li Andersson (The Left)

    Recent data showing that Finland’s forests are changing from carbon sinks to sources of CO2 emissions are threatening to scupper the very foundations of Finland’s climate policy and mean that Finland will not meet its EU climate policy obligations.

    Preliminary data for 2023 from Finland’s Natural Resources Institute show that the land‑use sector was a significant emitter, with net emissions of 1.12 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent. Forest land that previously served as a net carbon sink became a source of emissions as long ago as 2021.

    This is mainly due to an uptick in CO2 emissions from the soil, a slowdown in tree growth, increased logging and problematic logging practices. Logging is the most significant explanatory factor and experts maintain that to resolve the situation there needs to be less logging.

    The carbon sink provided by the trees is no longer sufficient to cover forest soil emissions, which are being exacerbated by global warming and changes in forest structure.

    It is important to ensure that the carbon sequestration capacity of forests is restored, including through improved forest management practices, the mitigation of soil emissions and the coordination of sustainable rates of logging.

    The situation in Finland shows that the accuracy of inventory and calculation methods is crucial in monitoring the effectiveness of climate action. At the same time, these methods reveal the need to reassess the sustainability of forestry and logging levels and the impact they have on the EU’s climate objectives.

    • 1.If Finland fails to meet its binding EU-level targets for the land‑use sector, what will the costs of that be for Finland?
    • 2.Excessive logging is a key reason why the land‑use sector has become a source of emissions. What responsibility does the forestry industry bear for any costs incurred if Finland fails to meet its targets in the land‑use sector?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Housing Rentals in the Internal Market and Protection of Consumers – 18-02-2025 – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    housing.jpg © no copyright

    On 18 February, from 14:30 to 16:30, the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee (IMCO) will host a public hearing about housing rentals in the internal market and consumer protection, in Brussels (SPAAK ROOM 1A2). This event aims to bring together different perspectives and gather feedback on housing rental challenges, with a particular emphasis on consumer protection.

    The hearing will gather representatives from the European Commission, industry organisations, the mayors of European cities and leading experts, with the view to ensure a comprehensive and diverse discussion.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Safety of products sold via online platforms – 17-02-2025 – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    online shopping.PNG © stock adobe

    On February 17, from 15h15 to 17h15, IMCO will host a public hearing, in Room SPINELLI 3G3, on the safety of products in the single market, focusing on e-commerce and imports from non-EU countries. The goal of this hearing is to gather input from the Commission, businesses, consumer groups, and national authorities.

    The discussion will help IMCO evaluate whether online products sold in the EU comply with EU safety laws and consider ways to ensure fair competition and effective enforcement, potentially leading to new measures to improve product safety and customs control. IMCO will draft an own initiative report on this topic.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 12, 2025
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