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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Are high-rise buildings meeting London’s housing needs?

    Source: Mayor of London

    London has more than four times as many homes in high-rise buildings compared to the English average,1 and the Mayor’s London Housing Strategy supports a shift to “higher density development through new design-led density policies”.2

    But what is the impact of high-rise housing on communities, the environment, and the health and wellbeing of residents?

    Tomorrow, the London Assembly Planning and Regeneration Committee will ask guests from industry and the London Tenants Federation about issues including residents’ experiences of living in tall buildings and how they vary among different groups, the characteristics of successful tall buildings, and the extent to which high-rise buildings meet Londoners’ housing needs.

    The guests are:

    Panel 1 – 10am – 11.15am:

    • Stuart Baillie, Partner and Head of Planning, Knight Frank
    • Russell Whitehead, Director, Robert Bird Group
    • Chris Edgington, Associate Director – Building Services, ARUP

    Panel 2 – 11.30am – 12.30pm:

    • Kath Scanlon, Distinguished Policy Fellow and Deputy Director, LSE London
    • Pat Turnbull, Regional Delegate, London Tenants Federation

    The meeting will take place on Tuesday 28 January from 10am, in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.

    Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

    The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

    Follow us @LondonAssembly.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Identity fraud: BaFin warns consumers against offers on websites zinsify.de and smbcgroup.asia

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority BaFin warns consumers against offers on websites zinsify.de and smbcgroup.asia. According to information available to BaFin, banking transactions and financial services are being provided on these websites without the required authorisation. The services are not actually offered by SMBC Bank EU AG. This is a case of identity fraud by unknown perpetrators.

    Anyone conducting banking business or providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the required authorisation. Information on whether companies have been authorised by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

    The information provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Severe case of influenza A infection in unvaccinated infant reported

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Severe case of influenza A infection in unvaccinated infant reported
    Severe case of influenza A infection in unvaccinated infant reported
    ********************************************************************

         The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 27) received a report of a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection in a baby girl who had not yet received the seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV). She is still hospitalised and in serious condition. The CHP urged the public who have not yet received the SIV to act immediately to minimise the risk of serious complications and death after infection.                “The 10 month-old girl with good past health developed a fever, cough and seizure since January 23. She attended the Accident and Emergency Department of United Christian Hospital on the same day and was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit immediately. Her nasopharyngeal swab specimen tested positive for the influenza A (H1) virus upon laboratory testing. The clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with encephalitis,” a spokesman for the CHP said.     The girl had no travel history during the incubation period. One of her household contacts had upper respiratory symptoms prior to her disease onset. An initial investigation revealed that she did not receive 2024/25 SIV. The CHP reiterated its call to the parents to bring their children to receive an SIV as soon as possible.                “Including the above-mentioned baby girl, the CHP has recorded five cases of severe influenza virus infection in children since the start of this influenza season in early January, four of whom were unvaccinated. Influenza vaccination has been scientifically proven to be one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications, while significantly reducing the risk of hospitalisation and death from seasonal influenza. All persons aged 6 months and above (except those with known contraindications) who have not yet received SIV should act immediately, particularly the elderly and children who have a higher risk of becoming infected with influenza and developing complications,” the spokesman said.                The spokesman reminded the public that Hong Kong has entered the influenza season. The seasonal influenza activity is expected to increase further while the activity of other respiratory infectious diseases may also increase. To protect their health and that of their family members, the public should not only receive the SIV, but also maintain good personal and environmental hygiene, and take the following measures to prevent contacting influenza and other respiratory illnesses: 

    Patients can wear surgical masks to prevent transmission of respiratory viruses. Therefore, it is essential for persons who are symptomatic (even if having mild symptoms) to wear a surgical mask;
    High-risk persons (e.g. persons with underlying medical conditions or persons who are immunocompromised) should wear surgical masks when visiting public places. The general public should also wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. It is important to wear a mask properly, including performing hand hygiene before wearing and after removing a mask;
    Avoid touching one’s eyes, mouth and nose;
    Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
    When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
    Cover the mouth and nose with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly into a lidded rubbish bin, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
    Maintain good indoor ventilation;
    When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, consider refraining from going to work or school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly; and
    Maintain a balanced diet, perform physical activity regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.

         For the latest information, members of the public can visit the CHP’s seasonal influenza and COVID-19 & Flu Express webpages. 

     
    Ends/Monday, January 27, 2025Issued at HKT 19:27

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ORO reports incident involving loss of backup tapes

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ORO reports incident involving loss of backup tapes
    ORO reports incident involving loss of backup tapes
    ***************************************************

         A spokesman for the Official Receiver’s Office (ORO) said today (January 27) that the department attaches the utmost importance to an incident involving the loss of magnetic backup tapes and expresses sincere apologies.      The ORO received a report on January 22, and confirmed upon investigation that seven magnetic backup tapes were lost during their transit from Immigration Tower to Queensway Government Offices by ORO staff on December 23, 2024, in the ordinary course of transfer, to comply with the disaster recovery backup procedures. The incident has been reported to the relevant authorities including the Hong Kong Police Force, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, the Security Bureau and the Digital Policy Office (DPO).      As the magnetic backup tapes are stored in a locked protective case and the data therein is encrypted with AES-256 encryption which is a highly secure encryption algorithm used extensively in government and military applications, as well as by business operating in highly regulated industries. Having consulted the DPO, the ORO considers that the risk of leakage of personal data from the tapes is extremely low. Based on the current investigation, there is no evidence that the data contained on the tapes has been read or compromised. The tapes contained personal data of about 76 000 individuals, including creditors of insolvency cases and serving staff of the ORO. The ORO is sending notifications to the relevant individuals by batch.                     The ORO is extremely concerned about the incident and has taken immediate action to review all transit procedures and data protection practices, and has refined the procedures with immediate effect. The ORO is also conducting a thorough investigation into the staff concerned and details of the incident, including the delay in reporting the loss to senior management. Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken.      The ORO attaches great importance to safeguarding government property and personal privacy and has reminded staff to comply with the departmental guidelines and exercise due care in handling personal data. The ORO will also review all guidelines on data security and examine the adoption of safer and more effective backup methods and procedures.      The ORO expresses sincere apologies for the loss and for the delay in reporting the incident. For enquiries, please call the ORO at 2867 2448 or email to oroadmin@oro.gov.hk.

     
    Ends/Monday, January 27, 2025Issued at HKT 19:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Criminals operating an illegal financial service to launder millions of euros busted

    Source: Eurojust

    Investigations into the group began in 2023 when border police in Spain noticed suspicious trips from their airports transporting large sums of money. The trips to Cyprus by members of the criminal group were used to deliver criminal profits, which were then laundered. Authorities stopped the criminals from travelling and seized more than EUR 1.8 million.

    The authorities discovered that the group was running a sophisticated money laundering service for other criminal organisations. The group acted as a financial service to transfer criminal profits internationally. Cryptocurrencies were used to move cash profits between criminal organisations. To dispose of the cash profits, money was transported on commercial flights, mainly to Cyprus, and by public transport to neighbouring countries of Spain. The group was able to carry out four to six money laundering transactions per week. 

    Running this financial service required a professionally structured organisation consisting of at least 52 members, operating mostly from Spain and Cyprus. The group worked with contacts outside of their organisation to liaise with clients and receive the cash to be laundered. Their contacts are linked to several commercial companies around the world. 

    As the financial service was used throughout Europe, authorities had to work together to stop the criminal group. An international investigation was launched by setting up a joint investigation team (JIT) at Eurojust between Spanish, Cypriot and German authorities, Eurojust and Europol. Through the JIT, information from tax and judicial authorities was exchanged that led to the takedown of the criminal group. Europol supported this international operation with experts specialised in financial crime, fighting high-risk criminal networks, unravelling money laundering structures, and tracing cryptocurrency flows.

    A series of actions were carried out to stop the financial service. In October 2024, actions were carried out in Spain, France and Cyprus to dismantle the criminal group. This was followed by actions in November 2024 that targeted actors working with the criminal group. A total of 91 searches were carried out, 77 in Spain, 1 in France and 13 in Cyprus. Twenty suspects were arrested in Spain, one in France and two in Slovenia. Authorities seized a total of EUR 8 million in cash, 2 million in bank accounts and froze EUR 27 million in cryptocurrency. Investigations into the group and its financial service continue.

    The following authorities were involved in the actions:

    • Spain: Investigating Judge no 2 of El Prat de Llobregat; Public Prosecution Office of Barcelona; Guardia Civil Special Central Unit 3, Destabilizing Threat Group-UCO
    • Cyprus: Attorney General’s Office; MOKAS (Unit for Combating Money Laundering); Criminal Investigation Department (CID) (in collaboration with other police departments)
    • Germany: Public Prosecutor’s Office, Landshut; Customs Investigation Office, München
    • France: Judicial Court of Marseille, Interregional Specialised Jurisdiction against organised crime (JIRS) ; National Anti-Fraud Office (ONAF), Marseille/Nice. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Range Announces Conference Call to Discuss Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT WORTH, Texas, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RANGE RESOURCES CORPORATION (NYSE: RRC) announced today that its fourth quarter 2024 financial results news release will be issued Tuesday, February 25 after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange.

    A conference call to review the financial results is scheduled on Wednesday, February 26 at 9:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. CT). A webcast of the call may be accessed at www.rangeresources.com. The webcast will be archived for replay on the Company’s website until March 26, 2025.

    RANGE RESOURCES CORPORATION (NYSE: RRC) is a leading U.S. independent natural gas and NGL producer with operations focused in the Appalachian Basin. The Company is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. More information about Range can be found at www.rangeresources.com.

    SOURCE: Range Resources Corporation

    Range Investor Contacts:

    Laith Sando, Vice President – Investor Relations
    817-869-4267
    lsando@rangeresources.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Supersession of the Board of Directors and Appointment of Administrator – Aviom India Housing Finance Private Limited

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 45-IE(1) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, and as per recommendation of National Housing Bank (NHB), the Reserve Bank has today superseded the board of directors of Aviom India Housing Finance Private Limited (the company) owing to governance concerns and defaults in meeting various payment obligations, and appointed Shri Ram Kumar, ex-CGM of Punjab National Bank, as the Administrator under Section 45-IE(2) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. The Reserve Bank intends to shortly initiate the process of resolution of the company under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Insolvency and Liquidation Proceedings of Financial Service Providers and Application to Adjudicating Authority) Rules, 2019, and would also apply to the NCLT, New Delhi, for appointing the Administrator as the Insolvency Resolution Professional.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2011

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A catalogue of errors

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The case of K & B Haulage Limited, recently heard by the Traffic Commissioner for the West of England, Kevin Rooney, has revealed a series of serious compliance failures affecting the company’s restricted goods vehicle operator’s licence.

    The licence itself had already been downgraded from standard international.

    The public inquiry uncovered severe and persistent compliance failings, jeopardising road safety and undermining fair competition.

    The commissioner’s findings included tax and MOT violations, where multiple vehicles were operated without valid tax or MOTs for extended periods and maintenance shortcomings with infrequent safety inspections – with some vehicles operating in dangerous conditions, including one driven with three bald tyres after being declared unroadworthy. Driver hours were mismanaged, and tachograph downloads were delayed by up to 237 days, with drivers failing to record required manual entries.

    On top of this, a there was a lack of oversight from former transport manager Richard Simcox who failed to fulfil basic compliance duties, contributing to widespread operational failings and a culture of non-compliance.

    The operator also engaged in subcontracting work to a company without the required operator’s licence, violating legal requirements, and Mr. Gettings admitted to lying during a DVSA investigation and failed to cooperate with vehicle inspections.

    Commissioner Rooney said “The compliance shortcomings alone with vehicles untaxed, untested and un-inspected, the lack of any drivers’ hours management or working time, mean that this is not a business I can have any confidence will be compliant in the future. The operation has been so dangerous that it must come to an end… The shortcomings I have found reflect a recklessness on the part of the operator, and a recklessness that is shown still to persist by the actions in October. Road safety has been compromised and the use of a Ltd Company driver is unfair competition.”

    The commissioner determined that K & B Haulage Limited was no longer fit to hold an operator’s licence. The company’s licence has been revoked, and its director, Kyle Gettings, has been disqualified as an operator for a period of two years. Transport manager Richard Simcox has also lost his good repute and been disqualified for an extended period.

    More details can be found here.

    For any further details or enquiries, please contact: pressoffice@otc.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Costa Rica and to the Republic of Nicaragua: Edward Roberts

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Mr Edward Roberts has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Costa Rica, and His Majesty’s non-resident Ambassador to the Republic of Nicaragua, in succession to Mr Ben Lyster-Binns.

    Mr Edward Roberts has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Costa Rica, and His Majesty’s non-resident Ambassador to the Republic of Nicaragua, in succession to Mr Ben Lyster-Binns, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

    Mr Roberts will take up his appointment during autumn 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Edward John Roberts

    Year Role
    2025 Pre-posting training (including Spanish language training)
    2023 to 2024 FCDO, Europe Group, Directorate Flexible Resource
    2022 to 2023 College of Europe, Bruges, MA in EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies
    2019 to 2022 Kathmandu, Deputy Ambassador
    2017 to 2019 Department for Exiting the European Union, Policy Manager, Security Partnership
    2016 to 2017 Cabinet Office, Senior Policy Adviser, Migration and EU Asylum Cooperation
    2013 to 2016 Kinshasa, Consul and Second Secretary Political and Prosperity
    2011 to 2013 FCO, Desk Officer, EU Institutions and Treaty Change Bill
    2010 to 2011 European Commission, Brussels, DG AIDCO, Seconded National Expert, Human Development and Migration
    2009 to 2010 Department for Education, Policy Officer, Early Years Improvement Support
    2008 to 2009 Brussels, European Commission, DG AIDCO, Stagiaire, Human Development and Migration
    2007 to 2008 Department for Education, Policy Officer, Education and Skills Bill
    2006 to 2007 Department for Education, Policy Officer, Strategy for Learners with Learning Difficulties
    2006 Joined the Civil Service Fast Stream

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing woman in Tsing Yi (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appeal for information on missing woman in Tsing Yi (with photos)
    Appeal for information on missing woman in Tsing Yi (with photos)
    *****************************************************************

         Police today (January 27) appealed to the public for information on a woman who went missing in Tsing Yi.     Leung Shuk-wa, aged 37, went missing after she left her residence in Cheung Hong Estate this morning. His family then made a report to Police.         She is about 1.55 metres tall, 47 kilograms in weight and of medium build. She has a round face with yellow complexion and long black hair. She was last seen wearing a light-coloured jacket, khaki trousers and white sport shoes.     Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing woman or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1173 or 5217 5562 or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

     
    Ends/Monday, January 27, 2025Issued at HKT 18:50

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Finding the Best Wireless Modem for Rural America: Results are in, and Nomad Air 2 is 10X faster than Local DSL

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nomad Internet, a leader in providing high-speed internet solutions for rural America, has announced breakthrough results from a rigorous modem testing initiative led by Jaden Garza, CINO at Nomad Internet & Jessica Garza, Chief Operating Officer of Nomad Internet. The company’s new Nomad Air 2 Wireless Modem outperformed local DSL networks by over 10 times, achieving blazing-fast download speeds of 513 Mbps compared to the local DSL average of 39.6 Mbps in real-world rural environments.

    The tests, conducted in areas with zero traditional cell service, were designed to evaluate the performance of over a dozen wireless modems from leading manufacturers under real-world rural conditions. The results proved that the Nomad Air 2 is the best option for rural communities and a significant step forward in closing the digital divide.

    “This is game-changing for rural America,” said Jaden Garza, CINO at Nomad Internet. “We pushed these modems to their limits in places with no urban network advantages, and the Nomad Air 2 consistently delivered speeds faster than even some fiber networks. It’s a testament to our commitment to bringing high-speed, reliable internet to the last mile.”

    Real-World Results, Real Impact

    The testing process included hours of rigorous analysis and optimization by Garza and his team, with the Nomad Air 2 achieving a download speed of 513 Mbps—outshining all other modems tested.
    “This modem is a game-changer for rural or underserved people. It levels the playing field, providing access to affordable, high-speed internet for people who traditional providers have left behind,” added Jessica Garza.

    Partnerships Driving Innovation

    Nomad Internet credited partners like Inseego Corp, whose modem technology played a pivotal role in delivering these speeds, and Ookla, which provided the tools to measure this breakthrough.
    “We are grateful for the incredible work of Inseego Corp and partners like Ookla, whose technology makes advancements like this possible,” Mr. Garza said.

    Closing the Digital Divide

    The Nomad Air 2 represents Nomad Internet’s mission to close the digital divide, empowering rural communities with faster, more reliable, and more affordable connectivity than ever before. Whether it’s for work, education, or entertainment, this modem ensures no one is left behind.

    A Look Back at All the New Launches by Nomad Internet in 2025

    While the record-breaking modem speeds have taken center stage, Nomad Internet is also introducing new products and initiatives to enhance connectivity and customer engagement further.

    Nomad Omni Data

    One of the company’s most anticipated launches, Nomad Omni Data, redefines rural internet connectivity by offering simultaneous access to two of America’s largest networks.

    Key Features of Nomad Omni Data:

    • Dual-Network Access: The modem transitions to the most rapid and robust network signal.
    • Unlimited Data: Users experience limitless browsing, streaming, and gaming without concerns about data limits or throttling.
    • Blazing Speeds: Boasting download speeds reaching 1 Gbps, users enjoy smooth streaming, swift downloads, and gaming without interruptions.
    • Affordable Upgrade: For only $19.95/month, users can access the complete capabilities of dual-network power.

    This feature is ideal for rural families, digital nomads, and gamers who demand reliable, high-speed internet regardless of location.

    Unlimited Power Plan

    The Unlimited Power Plan has been designed by Nomad Internet for customers seeking unparalleled connectivity at an unbeatable value. This plan caters to modern, mobile lifestyles priced at $119.95 per month with a lifetime discount of $30.

    Features of the Unlimited Power Plan:

    • 500 Mbps Speeds: Say goodbye to buffering and enjoy ultra-fast connections for video calls, streaming, and more.
    • 8K Streaming: Experience unparalleled clarity for entertainment and content creation.
    • Low Latency: Competitive gamers can enjoy smooth, lag-free gameplay.

    The Unlimited Power Plan highlights Nomad Internet’s dedication to providing affordable, flexible solutions that enable users to remain connected regardless of location.

    #NomadSpeedChallenge

    Nomad Internet has introduced the #NomadSpeedChallenge to commemorate its progress, encouraging customers to post their internet speed results to win a year of complimentary Nomad Internet service.

    How to Participate:

    1. Test the Speed: Run a speed test using tools like Ookla or Fast.com.
    2. Capture the Results: Take a screenshot or record the speed test.
    3. Share the Experience: Post the results on social media platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok using the hashtags #NomadSpeedChallenge and #NomadInternet, and tag @NomadInternet.
    4. Submit the Entry: Upload the speed test and social media link to the official contest page.

    This initiative celebrates Nomad Internet’s achievements and builds a sense of community among users who rely on its services to power their digital lives.

    Empowering Connectivity in the Digital Age

    The industry leader in rural connectivity, Nomad Internet, released the Nomad Air 2 gadget and additional products, starting with the Unlimited Power Plan and Nomad Omni Data. Nomad Internet is dedicated to breaking down digital connectivity barriers and empowering individuals in rural and remote areas to enjoy the high-speed internet they need to succeed in today’s digital landscape.

    Jessica Garza emphasized that Nomad Internet delivers high-speed internet to the communities that need it most. “We are transforming possibilities for rural and nomadic populations through unprecedented modem speeds, creative data plans, or customer initiatives such as the #NomadSpeedChallenge.”

    About Nomad Internet

    Nomad Internet is America’s leading wireless internet provider for rural communities, delivering high-speed, reliable, and affordable connectivity to those in areas where traditional services fall short.

    For more information, visit www.nomadinternet.com.

    Media Contact

    Company Name: Nomad Internet

    Contact Person: Manish Roshan

    Email: manish@nomadinternet.com

    Website: https://nomadinternet.com

    Phone: +1 281 800 1000

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by the Nomad Internet. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information shared in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment, financial, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b9f5723c-5676-4c59-9960-f213d8175c52

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/738a6ea2-75fe-4998-8d85-0eb2ad6e1e7b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3d225766-a42d-4881-9678-5cb04c297ea1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Embrace Change Acquisition Corp. Announces Entering into a Definitive Merger Agreement with Tianji

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Embrace Change Acquisition Corp. (“Embrace Change”) (NASDAQ: EMCG, EMCGU, EMCGR), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company, and Tianji Tire Global (Cayman) Limited (“Tianji,” or the “Company”), a leading tire manufacturer with operations mainly conducted by its subsidiaries based in mainland China, today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement (the “Merger Agreement”) that will result in Tianji becoming a publicly listed company upon the closing of the transaction contemplated there in (the “Proposed Transaction”) on January 26, 2025. Upon closing, the combined company will be renamed “Tianji Tire Global Group (Cayman) Limited” (the “Combined Company”) and expects to list its Class A ordinary shares on Nasdaq.

    Tianji is a leading tire manufacturer with operations mainly conducted by its subsidiaries based in mainland China, specializing in the design, research and development, production and sales of tires, with a primary focus on all-steel, tubeless radial tires for medium- and short-distance transportation.

    Key Transaction Terms

    As provided in the Merger Agreement, the merger consideration is $450 million, payable by newly-issued securities of the Combined Company valued at $10.00 per share.

    Cash proceeds raised will consist of Embrace Change’s approximately $26 million in trust (assuming no redemptions by Embrace Change’s existing public shareholders) which is anticipated to support the Company’s growth capital needs and to be used for general working capital purposes. After the closing, Tianji shareholders are expected to retain a majority of the outstanding shares of the Combined Company and Tianji will designate a majority of proposed directors for the Combined Company’s board.

    The Tianji management team, led by its CEO Hailong Cheng, will continue to run the Combined Company after the closing of the Proposed Transaction.

    The boards of directors of Tianji, Embrace Change and Embrace Change’s two merger subsidiaries have unanimously approved the Proposed Transaction, which is expected to be completed in mid–2025, subject to, among other things, approval by Embrace Change’ and Tianji’ shareholders, and satisfaction (or waiver, as applicable) of the conditions provided in the Merger Agreement, including regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, including a registration statement in connection with the Proposed Transaction being declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

    Additional information about the Proposed Transaction, including a copy of the Merger Agreement, will be provided in a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed by Embrace Change with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov. Additional information about the Proposed Transaction will be described in the Registration Statement, which Embrace Change and/or its subsidiary will file with the SEC.

    Advisors

    Loeb & Loeb LLP, Ogier (Cayman) LLP and Beijing Dacheng Law Offices, LLP are serving as legal advisor to Embrace Change. Han Kun Law Offices LLP and Harney Westwood & Riegels are serving as legal advisor to Tianji.

    About Tianji

    Tianji is a leading tire manufacturer with operations mainly conducted by its subsidiaries based in mainland China, specializing in the design, research and development, production and sales of tires, with a primary focus on all-steel, tubeless radial tires for medium- and short-distance transportation. The Company’s collection of tires is curated under six renowned brands, namely the premium brand SEMES, the mid- to high-end brand Tianxin, the mass-market brands Lunaite, Aoben and GFT Rider, as well as the brand Kuangshan Jiuhao designed specifically for mining transportation. Each of these brands stands out in quality and technical performance characteristics with distinctive features and precise identities.

    Founded in 2020, Tianji has successfully established an extensive presence in China, and is continuing to expand its footprint nationwide to reach more potential customers.

    About Embrace Change Acquisition Corp.

    Embrace Change Acquisition Corp. is a blank check company, also commonly referred to as a special purpose acquisition company, or SPAC, formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Proposed Transaction, Embrace Change and/or its subsidiary will file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form F-4 (as amended, the “Registration Statement”), which will include a proxy statement/prospectus. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Embrace Change will send the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents to its shareholders. This press release is not a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN FILED OR WILL BE FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TIANJI, EMBRACE CHANGE, THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS. The Registration Statement and any other relevant filed documents (when they are available) can be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. These documents (when they are available) can also be obtained free of charge from Embrace Change at https://www.Embrace Change.com/insights or upon written request at Embrace Change Acquisition Corp., 5186 CARROLL CANYON RD, SAN DIEGO, CA, 92121.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, both as amended. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the pending transactions described herein, and the parties’ perspectives and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the proposed transaction, including the anticipated initial enterprise value and post-closing equity value, the benefits of the proposed transaction, integration plans, expected synergies and revenue opportunities, anticipated future financial and operating performance and results, including estimates for growth, the expected management and governance of the combined company, and the expected timing of the transactions. The words “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan” and similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, assumptions (including assumptions about general economic, market, industry and operational factors), known or unknown, which could cause the actual results to vary materially from those indicated or anticipated.

    Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (i) risks related to the expected timing and likelihood of completion of the pending business combination, including the risk that the transaction may not close due to one or more closing conditions to the transaction not being satisfied or waived, such as regulatory approvals not being obtained, on a timely basis or otherwise, or that a governmental entity prohibited, delayed or refused to grant approval for the consummation of the transaction or required certain conditions, limitations or restrictions in connection with such approvals; (ii) risks related to the ability of Embrace Change and the Company to successfully integrate the businesses; (iii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the applicable transaction agreements; (iv) the risk that there may be a material adverse change with respect to the financial position, performance, operations or prospects of the Company or Embrace Change; (v) risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the Proposed Transaction; (vi) the risk that any announcements relating to the Proposed Transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of Embrace Change’s securities; (vii) the risk that the Proposed Transaction and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the ability of the Company to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers and customers and on their operating results and businesses generally; (viii) the Company’s estimates of expenses and profitability; and (ix) risks relating to the Combined Company’s ability to enhance its services and products, execute its business strategy, expand its customer base and maintain stable relationship with its business partners.

    A further list and description of risks and uncertainties can be found in the Prospectus filed on August 9, 2022 relating Embrace Change’s initial public offering and in the Registration Statement and proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC by Embrace Change and/or its subsidiary in connection with the proposed transactions, and other documents that the parties may file or furnish with the SEC, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate only to the date they were made, and Embrace Change, the Company and their subsidiaries undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the transactions described above and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of Embrace Change or the Company, nor shall there be any sale of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Embrace Change and the Company, and certain shareholders of Embrace Change, and their respective directors, executive officers and employees and other persons may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the holders of Embrace Change ordinary shares in respect of the proposed transaction. Information about Embrace Change’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Embrace Change ordinary shares is set forth in the Prospectus filed on August 9, 2022 and filed with the SEC as modified or supplemented by any Form 3 or Form 4 filed with the SEC since the date of that filing. Other information regarding the interests of the participants in the proxy solicitation will be included in the Registration Statement/proxy statement pertaining to the proposed transaction when it becomes available. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

    Tianji and its directors and executive officers may also be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of Embrace Change in connection with the proposed business combination. A list of the names of such directors and executive officers and information regarding their interests in the proposed business combination will be included in the Registration Statement/proxy statement pertaining to the proposed transaction when it becomes available for the proposed business combination.

    Contacts:

    Embrace Change Acquisition Corp.
    contact@embracechange.top

    Tianji Tire Global (Cayman) Limited
    Ray Jin
    ray966@msn.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Barnwell Industries, Inc. Adopts Limited-Duration Shareholder Rights Plan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONOLULU, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Barnwell Industries, Inc. (NYSE American: BRN) (“Barnwell” or the “Company”) today announced that the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of Barnwell has adopted a limited-duration shareholder rights plan (“Rights Plan”) designed to protect the interests of the Company and all of its shareholders. The Rights Plan is also intended to provide the Board sufficient time to make informed judgments and take actions that are in the best interests of Barnwell and all of its shareholders.

    The Rights Plan was adopted in response to the significant ownership position of Ned Sherwood and his affiliates (the “Sherwood Group”), which, based on public records, is approximately 30.00% of Barnwell’s outstanding common stock, and the refusal of the Sherwood Group to extend the Cooperation and Support Agreement, entered into by Alexander Kinzler, the former CEO of the Company, and Secretary and General Counsel of the Company, and the Sherwood Group, following its pending expiration.

    A special committee of the Board of Directors (“Special Committee”), consisting of Kenneth Grossman and Joshua Horowitz, was established by the Board on November 7, 2024, to review, consider and make recommendations to the Board with respect to certain corporate governance matters.

    The Special Committee recommended to the Board that the Rights Plan be adopted to protect all shareholders of the Company from any entity, person or group achieving control over the Company through a “creeping” acquisition or otherwise. Such “creeping” control would, in the Special Committee’s view, among other things, not be in the best interest of the shareholders of the Company.

    The Board believed it was prudent to adopt the Rights Plan after concerted efforts by the Special Committee to engage with the Sherwood Group were rebuffed. Notwithstanding the statements made by Ned Sherwood to members of the Board and management of the Company that he will obtain control of the Company in the new year and will bring fresh ideas and perspectives to address the Company’s operations, the Sherwood Group has not offered any ideas regarding the Company’s businesses, made any recommendations to improve shareholder value or provided any new investment opportunities or alternative investment strategies, despite repeated requests to do so.

    The Rights Plan is designed to enable Barnwell’s shareholders to realize the long-term value of their investment, provide an opportunity for shareholders to receive fair and equal treatment in the event of any proposed takeover of Barnwell and guard against tactics to gain control of Barnwell without paying shareholders an appropriate premium for that control. The Rights Plan is not intended to deter good faith offers to purchase its shares or preclude the Board or the Special Committee from taking action that it believes is in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders.

    The Special Committee recognizes that the Sherwood Group has a large share position and welcomes engagement with them, and any other shareholder, that is consistent with the Company’s status as a 70-year-old oil & gas exploration and development company. If the Sherwood Group were to gain control, and based upon interaction with the Sherwood Group Board designees, the Special Committee believes it is highly likely that the Sherwood Group would seek to modify the Company’s core business and strategy, including but not limited to exiting the Company’s oil & gas businesses at discounts to their value in order to seek undefined and vague “opportunities”.

    With the new Rights Plan, the Board seeks to deter the Sherwood Group from its efforts to take “creeping” control of the Company by purchasing more shares. The Special Committee remains willing to engage with the Sherwood Group and other shareholders to develop constructive ideas for the future of the Company. However, at this point the Special Committee can only conclude that the Sherwood Group intends to pursue its goals by running its board slate for election at the next annual meeting, without informing stakeholders what it intends to do if it achieves full control of the Board. The Company has been clear with shareholders about its commitment to maintaining the business in which shareholders invested and has honored that commitment.

    The Rights Plan is similar to other common stock rights plans adopted by other publicly held companies. Under the Rights Plan, Barnwell will issue one right for each Barnwell common share outstanding as of the close of business on February 7, 2025. All shareholders will receive one right for each share owned. The rights will initially trade with Barnwell’s common stock and will become exercisable only if a person acquires 20% or more of Barnwell’s outstanding common stock. Any shareholders with beneficial ownership of 20% or more of Barnwell’s outstanding common stock (including the Sherwood Group) prior to this announcement are grandfathered at their beneficial ownership levels at the date the Rights Plan was adopted but are not permitted to acquire additional common stock representing 0.25% or more of the outstanding common stock, subject to limited exceptions, without triggering the Rights Plan. The Rights Plan is effective immediately and will expire in one year, unless the rights are earlier redeemed or exchanged. Any extension would be subject to prior approval by the Company’s shareholders.

    Pursuant to the Rights Plan, should it be triggered, the Board may decide that:

    • Each right will entitle shareholders (other than the acquiring person, whose rights will have become void and will not be exercisable) to purchase a specific number of shares of Barnwell common stock at an effectively half price.
    • Alternatively, (on a cashless basis) each outstanding right (other than the rights held by the acquiring person, whose rights will have become void) will be exchanged for one share of common stock.

    Further details about the Rights Plan will be contained in a Form 8-K and Form 8-A to be filed by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    The information contained in this press release contains “forward-looking statements,” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. A forward-looking statement is one which is based on current expectations of future events or conditions and does not relate to historical or current facts. These statements include various estimates, forecasts, projections of Barnwell’s future performance, statements of Barnwell’s plans and objectives, and other similar statements. Forward-looking statements include phrases such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “assumes,” “projects,” “may,” “will,” “will be,” “should,” or similar expressions. Although Barnwell believes that its current expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, it cannot assure that the expectations contained in such forward-looking statements will be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in such statements. The risks, uncertainties and other factors that might cause actual results to differ materially from Barnwell’s expectations are set forth in the “Forward-Looking Statements,” “Risk Factors” and other sections of Barnwell’s annual report on Form 10-K for the last fiscal year and Barnwell’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, as they speak only as of the date of this press release, and Barnwell expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to publicly release any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein.

    CONTACT: Kenneth S. Grossman
      Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors
      Phone: (516) 482-8841
      Email: kensgrossman@gmail.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC’s Insurance Fund Account Provides $414M+ to Mitigate Traders’ Bankruptcy Losses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

     

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has provided over $414 million through its Insurance Fund Account to cover deficits that occur when users’ losses during liquidation exceed their available margin as of January 23, 2025. This impressive figure underscores MEXC’s commitment to asset security and risk mitigation. Combined with Proof of Reserve, MEXC offers traders robust protection against extreme market fluctuations.

     

    How MEXC’s Insurance Fund Account Mitigates Risk for Traders
    The MEXC Insurance Fund Account, launched in November 2024, is specifically designed to protect traders from extreme market fluctuations, such as those experienced during a bull run, where rapid price swings can lead to a user’s account value to dip below the required margin level, triggering a liquidation. Should the liquidation price be worse than expected, resulting in losses that exceed than the available margin (a scenario known as bankruptcy), the Insurance Fund steps in to cover these excess losses, thus facilitating a smoother liquidation process.

    The fund is continually replenished by surpluses generated from liquidation orders executed at better-than-expected prices, ensuring its stability and ongoing protection during periods of high volatility.

    In line with its commitment to transparency, MEXC provides users with direct access to both current and historical insurance fund amounts for various cryptocurrencies on the platform.

    In addition, MEXC provides Proof of Reserve to ensure asset safety and maintain transparency for its users. This allows users to trade with confidence, free from concerns about withdrawal runs. The reserve rates are updated every two months. As of Dec 1, 2024, the latest reserve rates for various cryptocurrencies are as follows:

    • USDT: 104.52%
    • USDC: 116.52%
    • BTC: 105.88%
    • ETH: 105.65%

     

    By offering high leverage alongside an Insurance Fund Account and Reserve Rate exceeding 100%, MEXC ensures multiple layers of protection to safeguard traders’ positions and ensure asset security.

    The Go-To Platform for Seamless Crypto Trading
    In addition to implementing robust safety measures to ensure a secure trading environment, the platform offers a variety of features and services designed to enhance the user experience. These features help traders minimize costs and maximize returns. MEXC is committed to empowering traders by enabling investments across the widest range of assets, ensuring safe and seamless transactions regardless of market conditions.

    • M – Most Trending Tokens: MEXC is known for its rapid token listings and diverse selection of popular tokens, helping users capitalize on emerging opportunities. To date, over 3,000 tokens have been listed on the platform.
    • E – Everyday Airdrops: MEXC makes it easy for users to engage in daily airdrop events and receive substantial rewards without complex procedures. In 2024, the platform completed 2,293 airdrop events, distributing over $136 million in rewards.
    • X – Xtremely Low Fees: MEXC offers highly competitive trading fees, helping users reduce costs and maximize their growth potential.
    • C – Comprehensive Liquidity: Backed by strong liquidity and market depth, MEXC ensures the efficient and seamless execution of every transaction, minimizing slippage even during volatile conditions.

    These features have helped MEXC attract over 30 million users across over 170 countries, establishing it as the platform of choice for an increasing number of traders around the world.

    Learn more about the MEXC Insurance Fund Account.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 30 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.

    MEXC Official Website｜X｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article about cryptocurrencies does not represent MEXC’s official stance or investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully evaluate market fluctuations, project fundamentals, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e38abd1a-038c-4b15-9bd1-930ea95076bd
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7973d05e-acf0-4aee-95b0-a1fb0e6c4a71
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/78296b51-e6d1-48cd-a47f-a0fbd90dd493

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Gate Ventures Joins Morph VC Collective to Accelerate Mainstream Blockchain Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PANAMA CITY, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gate Ventures, the venture capital arm of Gate.io, is proud to announce its membership in the newly launched Morph Venture Capital Collective, a prestigious network of top-tier venture capital firms supporting cutting-edge consumer blockchain projects. This strategic partnership will enable Gate Ventures to further expand its portfolio in the blockchain space, particularly within the Morph ecosystem, which focuses on fostering the mass adoption of blockchain technology.

    The Morph VC Collective aims to connect promising blockchain projects with a diverse group of reputable venture capitalists, including Pantera Capital, Spartan Group, Foresight Ventures, and now, Gate Ventures. By joining this collaborative initiative, Gate Ventures will contribute to the collective’s mission to support sustainable growth for consumer blockchain applications, offering funding, strategic partnerships, and mentorship to accelerate the development and market access of emerging projects.

    “We’re excited to be part of the Morph VC Collective, a key initiative that aligns with our mission to support blockchain innovation,” said Kevin Yang, Managing Partner of Gate Ventures. “By collaborating with other leading VCs, we’re helping bridge the gap between groundbreaking blockchain projects and the resources they need to succeed. Morph’s ecosystem is primed to drive the next wave of consumer adoption, and we are proud to be part of this transformative movement.”

    Morph’s initiative will provide blockchain projects building in its ecosystem with invaluable exposure to top-tier investors and guidance to navigate the early stages of growth. Projects will be assessed based on technical feasibility, team composition, scalability, market potential, and more, ensuring that the most promising applications receive the support they need to thrive.

    As part of this collaboration, Gate Ventures will also have access to a curated pipeline of high-potential projects within the Morph ecosystem, further strengthening its commitment to identifying and nurturing the next generation of blockchain applications.

    “We’re excited to welcome Gate Ventures to the Morph VC Collective. Their addition further strengthens our network of strategic partners working to accelerate mainstream blockchain adoption. Together with our growing coalition of leading VCs, we’re building a robust support system that empowers teams to create impactful consumer applications.” said Cecilia Hsueh, CEO of Morph.

    With a strong focus on mass adoption, Morph’s innovative platform is designed to cater to mainstream audiences, including gamers and social media users, making it a perfect match for Gate Ventures’ investment philosophy. Together, the two entities aim to drive the widespread use of blockchain technology and revolutionize the way decentralized applications interact with everyday users.

    For more information on Gate Ventures’ involvement in the Morph VC Collective and the opportunities it provides to blockchain projects, visit www.gate.io/ventures.

    About Gate Ventures

    Gate Ventures, the venture capital arm of Gate.io, is focused on investments in decentralized infrastructure, middleware, and applications that will reshape the world in the Web 3.0 age. Working with industry leaders across the globe, Gate Ventures helps promising teams and startups that possess the ideas and capabilities needed to redefine social and financial interactions.

    About Morph

    Morph is the pioneering consumer layer, acting as the distribution hub for the resources builders need to launch and scale for the mass market. It leverages a hybrid solution of ZK and Optimistic roll-up technology and a decentralized sequencer to enable limitless possibilities within mainstream audiences, making it a user-friendly option for developers who require a chain to build these types of apps.

    Media Contact:
    Elaine Wang at elaine.w@gate.io

    Disclaimer
    The content herein does not constitute any offer, solicitation, or recommendation. You should always seek independent professional advice before making any investment decisions. Please be noted that Gate.io and/or Gate Ventures may restrict or prohibit the use of all or a portion of the services from restricted locations. For more information, please read its applicable user agreement.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aaa70831-c1f4-4497-bdbb-4ef3b74f8192

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: What do trade unions have to do with human rights?

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Trade unions are critical to protecting and promoting human rights including economic, social, and cultural rights and the right to be free from discrimination.

    First, they play a key role through negotiations with employers and collective action in supporting workers’ rights. In so doing, unions balance the scales of power, ensuring that workers are in a position to advocate for their rights, and holding those who run wealthy and powerful companies to account.

    Second, the benefits of trade unions go far beyond the workplace. Unions are the fuel that keeps the fires of social justice and people power burning so that workers’ rights are respected and protected by law. Throughout history, unions have been the driving force behind calls on governments and employers to acknowledge and prevent human rights abuses that are connected to their business operations. They also ensure laws are adopted and reformed to better respect and protect the rights of workers.

    Finally, unions have a long history of solidarity with other global human rights movements. From strikes in the 80s against apartheid in South Africa to the union-backed campaigns against Israel’s genocide of Palestinians in Gaza, their actions consistently demonstrate the bond between trade unionism and social justice.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel/OPT: Genocide ‘matter of law and evidence, not opinion’ and UK government must ensure accountability

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Marking the one-year anniversary since the International Court of Justice (ICJ) found plausible risk that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza (Sunday 26 January), Amnesty International said the UK government’s disregard for its legal obligations to prevent genocide had contributed to Israel’s impunity and risked British complicity in serious crimes against international law. 

    Amnesty is calling on the UK government to take urgent and meaningful steps to prevent Israel’s genocidal acts against Palestinians in Gaza, as it is obligated to do as a State Party to the Genocide Convention.   

    The landmark case at the ICJ was brought by South Africa and the court’s judges ordered provisional measures to protect Palestinians from further harm, however these were dismissed by Israel. Amnesty’s own analysis concluded that Israel is engaged in committing genocide in a comprehensive report published last year and it continues to do so. 

    Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK’s Chief Executive, said: 

    “The UK government should have taken heed of this extremely significant ICJ ruling the day it was announced. UK inaction and disregard for its international obligations to prevent genocide contributed to Israel’s impunity and risked British complicity in serious crimes against international law. 

    “The genocide against the Palestinian people is a matter of law and evidence, not opinion. Prime Minister Keir Starmer must accept the UK’s obligations to prevent Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza and help ensure there is justice and accountability. 

    “To avoid the risk of itself being complicit in genocide, the UK should have ended all arms transfers to Israel long ago and committed full support to the ICJ and other important international accountability mechanisms. The UK should take those steps urgently now. 

    “The staggering number of Palestinian civilians killed, the colossal scale of physical destruction, the blocking of life-saving aid before the ceasefire, and the stream of dehumanising and racist anti-Palestinian rhetoric from Israeli officials, provide the clear evidential basis for genocidal intent, as defined by law, in Israel’s actions in Gaza.  

    “The UK government must fulfil its duties to stop genocidal acts even when committed by an ally and show clearly that it is UK policy that Palestinian lives matter as much as any other human life.”

    Evidence of genocide 

    In December 2024, Amnesty’s International’s research found sufficient basis to conclude that Israel has committed – and is continuing to commit – genocide against Palestinians in the occupied Gaza Strip. 

    The 296-page report - ‘You Feel Like You Are Subhuman’: Israel’s Genocide Against Palestinians in Gaza - documents how, during its military offensive launched in the wake of the deadly Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel on 7 October 2023, Israel has unleashed hell and destruction on Palestinians in Gaza brazenly, continuously and with total impunity.  Amnesty examined Israel’s acts in Gaza closely and in their totality, taking into account their recurrence and simultaneous occurrence, and both their immediate impact and their cumulative and mutually-reinforcing consequences. Amnesty considered the scale and severity of the casualties and destruction over time, and also analysed public statements by officials – finding that prohibited acts were often announced or called for in the first place by high-level officials in charge of the war efforts. 

    As a state party to the Genocide Convention, the UK has a legal obligation to use all reasonable means to help prevent genocide and be consistent when supporting international law – just as it has done when calling out crimes carried out by Russian forces. 

                           

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: DRC: “Scale of suffering demands urgent attention” – OCHA | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, on the humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
    —
    The crisis in eastern DRC is at a dangerous point: The situation is deteriorating rapidly, and if hostilities spill into Goma – a densely populated urban center – the impact on civilians could be devastating.

    More than 21 million people already need aid across the country – one of the highest numbers worldwide. Approximately 1 million people had already sought refuge in neighboring countries. The escalation in the east threatens to make a critical humanitarian situation even worse.
    —
    Council members, to address this escalating humanitarian crisis before the situation worsens further, I have three asks to the Council:

    First, I urge this Council and all Member States to leverage their influence to ensure that international humanitarian law is respected by all parties.
    Civilians must be protected. IDP sites and medical facilities must be protected. Rapid, unimpeded, and safe humanitarian access to those in need must be facilitated.

    Second, since we are at the start of the year and many funding sources remain unavailable or delayed for various reasons, adequate funding is essential to enable and sustain urgent humanitarian action. In light of the scale and severity of the current situation, we are allocating US $ 17 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund for immediate life-saving interventions. However, let’s be clear: Additional resources are urgently
    needed.

    Third, I urge the Council and all Member States to use their influence to end the hostilities.

    The scale of suffering in the DRC demands urgent attention. The plight of the country’s women, men and children cannot continue to go unnoticed.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqlrwrEYNqs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: France on the Democratic Republic of the Congo – Security Council Media Stakeout

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Media stakeout by Nicolas de Rivière, Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations, on the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mLstUcrrzg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Pete Buttigieg delivers remarks on the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore.

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Search and rescue operations continue following the Francis Scott Key bridge collapse. Our hearts go out to the families waiting for news, and our thanks go out to the extraordinary first responders on the scene. We will be with the people of Baltimore every step of the way.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIdZJXSwHwI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor reiterates vital importance of educating young people about the Holocaust in an age of fake news and unregulated social media

    Source: Mayor of London

    • With the proliferation of fake news and unregulated social media, the Mayor says that the work of organisations such as the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, Holocaust Educational Trust and Holocaust Memorial Day Trust are more vital than ever
    • Mayor reiterates commitment to ensure young Londoners are educated about the Holocaust at a time of rising antisemitism and hate globally
    • The Holocaust reminds us what can happen when hatred is left unchecked and the Mayor is more determined than ever for London to stand united
    • Sadiq to attend a service held at Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum and Memorial in Poland marking 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today urged Londoners to remember and learn from the horrors of the past to ensure they are never forgotten or repeated, as he warned that the proliferation of fake news and unregulated social media means that the work of organisations such as the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, Holocaust Educational Trust and Holocaust Memorial Day Trust are more vital than ever.

    The Mayor is in Poland today (Monday 27 January) to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.

    Sadiq has been invited to attend a service held at Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum and Memorial, where he will join His Majesty the King, heads of state and political leaders from across the world alongside Holocaust survivors, their families and members of Jewish communities.

    Together, on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, they will remember the estimated 1.1 million people who were killed at Auschwitz and the millions more who were murdered by the Nazis. Around six million Polish people died in World War Two, one fifth of the pre-war population.

    With the alarming rise of antisemitism and hate across the globe, the Holocaust reminds us of what can happen when hatred is left unchecked. The Mayor has emphasised the vital importance of education and his commitment to supporting young Londoners to learn about the Holocaust and other genocides.

    Auschwitz-Birkenau plays a key role in educating Londoners and people around the world about the Holocaust. Last year, the site was visited 1.8 million times and around 300,000 people, including school children, visit each year from the UK.

    In 2020, the Mayor attended a commemorative event to mark the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and London provided a £300,000 grant to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, helping its work to preserve the site and ensuring future generations of Londoners and visitors from around the world can learn for themselves the truth about what took place. The contribution has helped towards preserving thousands of personal items like prisoner shoes, clothing, cutlery, eyeglasses and protecting the original camp infrastructure at Auschwitz-Birkenau site.

    London is home to an estimated 145,000 Jewish people – making it the largest Jewish community in the country. The capital’s Jewish population grew significantly in the 1930s and 1940s when many European Jews fled to the UK to escape the Nazis, as well as family members of those who were murdered in the concentration camps.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “The Holocaust was one of the darkest times in history and a terrible example of what can happen when hatred is left unchecked. That’s why it’s imperative Londoners and others around the world are able to learn about the appalling events which took place at Auschwitz-Birkenau and the other camps.

    “I am honoured to have been invited to join the official commemoration event in Poland to mark the 80th anniversary of its liberation. The powerful and poignant stories preserved here are an integral part of ensuring the victims are never forgotten and the horrors that took place here are never repeated.

    “The proliferation of fake news and unregulated content on social media means that the work of organisations such as the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, Holocaust Educational Trust and Holocaust Memorial Day Trust is more vital than ever in equipping young people with a full and proper account of history.

    “At a time of growing division and rising antisemitism and hate crime across the world, it’s incredibly important that we all now redouble our efforts to remember the past and make sure we learn from it.”

    Piotr M.A. Cywiński, President of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, said: “In an era of rapid cultural, technological, and social changes, amidst growing populism and the loud prevalence of hate speech, we must rediscover the profoundly valuable power of memory. It is from memory that wise warnings, guidance, and insights flow, enabling us to make better judgments, choices, and actions. Memory and experience are deeply interconnected concepts. I believe it is this perspective on memory that has connected Mr. Sadiq Khan with efforts to preserve Auschwitz-Birkenau for so many years. Striving to uphold memory among new generations is one of the most meaningful investments in a future free from hatred, antisemitism, and all forms of racism and xenophobia.”

    Karen Pollock CBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust: “Today we mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the former Nazi concentration and death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau, the place where approximately 1 million Jewish men, women and children were murdered by the Nazis. At the site of the former camp, Holocaust survivors, surrounded by their families, Heads of State and dignitaries, had a spotlight shone on their harrowing stories. Today, 80 years on, as survivors become fewer and frailer, learning about the truth of the past could not be more important, and ensuring the next generation understand what happened at Auschwitz takes on a new urgency. Thank you to the Mayor of London for joining this important commemoration.”

    Olivia Marks-Woldman OBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust: “The Mayor of London is a steadfast supporter of Holocaust commemoration; the Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 Ceremony at City Hall last week was a moving and powerful event, and one we are proud to have supported. The Mayor’s unwavering commitment ensures Londoners never forget the lessons of the Holocaust. His visit to Auschwitz on the 80th anniversary of its liberation underscores this dedication. Auschwitz remains an enduring symbol of Nazi brutality and humanity’s capacity for unimaginable evil. It stands as a reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked hate and bigotry. The commemorations at Auschwitz-Birkenau, once the epicentre of the Nazis’ genocidal campaign, will honour not only of those who were murdered at Auschwitz but of all six million Jews killed during the Holocaust.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Twentieth session of the SPECA Working Group on Trade

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) are organizing the twentieth session of the SPECA Working Group on Trade on 14 March 2025, back-to-back with a seminar “Implementing a Digital Equivalent of the SMGS Railway Consignment Note in the KTI Corridor Using UN Standards”. The Working Group supports cross-border and regional cooperation for the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda in Central Asia (notably SDG targets 17.10 and 17.11) to advance green and sustainable trade. The session will focus on the deliverables of the SPECA Working Group on Trade:

    1. collaboration among SPECA participating States in the WTO process,
    2. progress in the implementation of the SPECA Trade Facilitation Strategy and related roadmap,
    3. progress in the implementation of the Principles for Sustainable Trade in the subregion,
    4. studies and recommendations on regulatory and procedural non-tariff barriers to trade, and
    5. digitalization of data and document exchange in multimodal transport and trade using UN standards.

    The event will review national and regional plans and strategies of the SPECA participating States for sustainable trade facilitation and development. It will strengthen cooperation among trade diplomats of the SPECA participating States. Participants in the session are requested to contribute their good practices and identify priority actions on which the SPECA Working Group on Trade could work in the coming 2-3 years.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 23 underground bankers arrested

    Source: Europol

    The organised criminal network, composed of mostly Ukrainian but also Armenian, Azerbaijani, or Kazakh nationals, has been providing cash courier and underground banking services to other criminal networks. Chinese actors were also part of this criminal network, providing money laundering services. This catalogue of crime-as-a-service offerings was used by various Russian-speaking and Asian criminal actors engaged in drug trafficking, tax…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP Paribas Primary New Issues: POST-STAB: No Stab Notice

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    [27/01/2025]

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    [ELIOR GROUP S.A.]

    Post-stabilisation Period Announcement

    NO STABILISATION CARRIED OUT

    [Further to the pre-stabilisation period announcement dated 22/01/2025 BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222) hereby gives notice that no stabilisation (within the meaning of Article 3.2(d) of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014)) was undertaken by the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below in relation to the offer of the following securities.

    Securities

    Issuer: ELIOR
    Guarantor(s) (if any):
    Aggregate nominal amount: EUR 500,000,000
    Description: SENIOR UNSECURED NOTES
    Offer price: 100

    Stabilisation Manager(s)

    Name(s): BNP PARIBAS, CACIB, J.P MORGAN, NATIXIS, BBVA, CIC, GS, RABO, SG

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities referred to above have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There has not been and will not be a public offer of the securities in the United States.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Death of Board Member

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    To Nasdaq OMX Copenhagen

    27 January 2025

    Company announcement no. 1/2025

    Death of Board Member

    It is with great sadness that the BANK of Greenland hereby announces that Board Member Lars Holst has passed away after a long illness.

    Lars Holst has been a Member of the Board of Directors in the BANK of Greenland since 2015.

    Best regards
    The BANK of Greenland

    Martin Kviesgaard
    Managing Director

    Contact: +299 34 78 02 / mail: mbk@banken.gl

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tresu Investment Holding A/S – Financial calendar 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TRESU INVESTMENT HOLDING A/S
    ANNOUNCEMENT NO. 01.2025
    27.01.2025

    Please be informed of the dates in 2025 for Tresu Investment Holding A/S’ planned announcements to NASDAQ Copenhagen A/S.

    Financial Calendar 2025    
    Annual Report 2024 Wednesday 30 April 2025
    Annual General Meeting Wednesday 30 April 2025
    Interim Report 1st Quarter 2025 Thursday 12 June 2025
    Interim Report 2nd Quarter 2025 Wednesday 10 September 2025
    Interim Report 3rd Quarter 2025 Wednesday 26 November 2025

    Torben Børsting
    CFO, TRESU

    Phone: +45 5130 2780

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Resistance and decisive action – a national strategy against organised crime

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Resistance and decisive action – a national strategy against organised crime – Government.se

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    Information material from Ministry of Justice

    Published

    Brochure in pdf format presenting Resistance and decisive action – a national strategy against organised crime.

    Download:

    Print the brochure

    Do you want to print the brochure? Here you can download a version in pdf format for printing.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: #iubilaeum2025 – Holy Mass on the occasion of Sunday of the Word of God and of the Jubilee of the World of Communication

    Source: The Holy See

    #iubilaeum2025 – Holy Mass on the occasion of Sunday of the Word of God and of the Jubilee of the World of Communication, 26.01.2025
    At 9.30 this morning, Third Sunday of Ordinary Time, on the occasion of Sunday of the Word of God, which takes as its theme this year “I hope in Your Word” (Ps 119:7-4), and of the Jubilee of the World of Communication, the Holy Father Francis presided over Holy Mass in the Vatican Basilica.
    During the Eucharistic Celebration, the Pope conferred the ministries of Lector and Catechist to lay men and women from various countries throughout the world.
    The following is the homily delivered by Pope Francis after the proclamation of the Gospel:

    Homily of the Holy Father
    The Gospel we have heard tells of the fulfilment of a prophecy overflowing with the Holy Spirit. It is fulfilled by the One who comes “with the power of the Spirit” (Lk 4:14): Jesus, the Saviour.
    The Word of God is alive: down the centuries, it accompanies us and by the power of the Holy Spirit, it is at work in every age. For the Lord is always faithful to his promise, which, in his love for humanity, he always keeps. This is exactly what Jesus says in the synagogue in Nazareth: “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing” (Lk 4:21).
    Sisters and brothers, what a happy coincidence! On the Sunday of the Word of God, at the beginning of this Jubilee Year, we proclaim this page of Luke’s Gospel, in which Jesus reveals himself as the Messiah, “anointed” (v. 18) and sent to “proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (v. 19)! Jesus is the living Word in whom all the Scriptures find their fulfilment. In the today of the sacred Liturgy, we are his contemporaries; we too, filled with amazement, open our hearts and minds to listen to him, for “it is he himself who speaks when the holy Scriptures are read in the Church” (Sacrosanctum Concilium, 7). I said a word: amazement. When we hear the Gospel, the words of God, it is not simply a matter of listening to or understanding them, no. They must reach our hearts and bring about what I said, “amazement”. The word of God always amazes us; it always renews us. It enters our hearts and always renews us.
    In this spirit of exultant faith, we are invited to accept the ancient prophecy as coming from the very Heart of Christ, and to reflect on five actions that characterize the unique and universal mission of the Messiah. A unique mission, because he alone can fulfil it; a universal mission, because he wants to involve everyone in it.
    First, Jesus was anointed “to bring good news to the poor” (v. 18). This is the “gospel”, the good news, which Jesus proclaims: the Kingdom of God is at hand! When God reigns, we are saved. The Lord comes to visit his people, caring for the lowly and the wretched. The Gospel is a word of compassion; it calls us to exercise charity, to forgive our neighbour’s debts and to be generous in serving others. Let us not forget that the Lord is close, merciful and compassionate. God’s style is one of closeness, mercy and compassion.
    Christ’s second action is to “proclaim release to the captives” (v. 18). Brothers, sisters, evil’s days are numbered, because the future belongs to God. With the power of the Spirit, Jesus redeems us from all guilt and liberates our hearts from all that holds them in bondage, for he brings the Father’s forgiveness into the world. The Gospel is a word of mercy, which calls us to become passionate witnesses of peace, solidarity and reconciliation.
    The third action with which Jesus fulfils the prophecy is to grant “recovery of sight to the blind” (v. 18). The Messiah opens the eyes of our heart, all too often dazzled by the allure of power and vain things: the diseases of the soul that prevent us from acknowledging God’s presence and hide from our gaze the weak and the suffering. The Gospel is a word of light, which beckons us to the truth and calls us to bear witness to our faith and to be consistent in its practice.
    Jesus’ fourth action is to “let the oppressed go free” (v. 18).  No form of bondage can resist the work of the Messiah, who makes us brothers and sisters in his name. The prisons of persecution and the dungeons of death are flung full open by the passionate power of God. The Gospel is a word of freedom, calling us to conversion of heart, integrity of mind and perseverance in trial.
    Lastly, the fifth action: Jesus was sent “to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (v. 19). That year is a new age, an age that does not devour life, but regenerates it. It is a “Jubilee”, and in this sense, like the one we now celebrate as a way of preparing in hope for our definitive encounter with the Redeemer. The Gospel is a word of joy, summoning us to mutual acceptance and fellowship, as we make our pilgrim journey towards the Kingdom of God.
    By these five actions, Jesus even now fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy. By releasing us from our captivity, he tells us that God draws close to us in our poverty, redeems us from evil, enlightens our eyes, breaks the yoke of oppression, and brings us into the joy of a time and greater history in which he makes himself constantly present, to walk beside us and to guide us to eternal life. True, the salvation he bestows on us is not yet fully realized. We know this. Yet wars, injustice, pain and death will not have the final word. The Gospel never disappoints.
    Brothers and sisters, on the Sunday devoted in a special way to the word of God, let us thank the Father for having spoken to us by his own Word, made flesh for the salvation of the world. All the Scriptures, which have human writers and the Holy Spirit as their true authors (cf. Dei Verbum, 11), point to this event. The whole Bible speaks of Christ and his work, which the Spirit makes present and active in our lives and in history. When we read the Scriptures, when we pray and study them, we do not simply receive information about God; we receive his Spirit, who reminds us of all that Jesus said and did (cf. Jn 14:26). In this way, our hearts, inflamed by faith, wait in hope for the coming of God. Brothers, sisters, we must become more familiar with reading the Scriptures. I would like to suggest that all of us get a small, pocket-sized copy of the Gospels or the New Testament. We could always have it with us in a bag so that we can read it at various points throughout the day. One verse, two verses so that throughout the day we will have contact with the Lord. A small copy of the Gospels is enough.
    Let us respond with enthusiasm to the good news of Christ! For the Lord has not spoken to us as silent listeners, but as his witnesses, called to evangelize at all times and in every place. Today, forty brothers and sisters from various parts of the world have come to receive the ministry of Lector. Thank you! We are grateful to them and we pray for them. We are all praying for you. Let us commit ourselves to bringing the good news to the poor, proclaiming release to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, letting the oppressed go free and announcing the year of the Lord’s favour. Then yes, sisters and brothers, we will transform the world in accordance with the will of God, who created it and redeemed it in his immense love. Thank you!

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Holocaust Memorial Day marks 80 years since the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp This year’s Holocaust Memorial Day marks 80 years to the day since the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. 27 January 2025

    Source: City of Sheffield

    This year’s Holocaust Memorial Day marks 80 years to the day since the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.

    Over 1 million people were killed in Auschwitz-Birkenau, to most of whom were jews, murdered as part of the genocide committed by the Nazis. 

    This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Bosnian genocide, which remains the largest mass murder in Europe since World War 2. 

    As part of this act of remembrance, the city will reflect on the genocide committed against the Roma people by the Nazis during World War 2, and the mass murder of other groups of people whom the Nazis persecuted, as well as other genocides that have taken place more recently including in Cambodia and Darfur. 

    To highlight these historic anniversaries, Sheffield City Council have organised an event taking place for Holocaust Memorial Day on Monday 27 January, which will be focused on this year’s theme of ‘for a brighter future’. 

    This event will be taking place in Cutlers Hall between 5.30pm-7pm, with a series of speeches and readings, civic speakers and community speakers the Jewish and other communities and is open for all to attend.  There will also be a period of silence and the statement of commitment for Holocaust Memorial Day will be read out. 

    Leader of Sheffield City Council, Cllr Tom Hunt, said:  

    “Holocaust Memorial Day  gives us the opportunity to come together to remember the victims of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides, who faced unimaginable atrocities.  

    “It is a moment to renew our commitment to speak out against the denial and distortion of the Holocaust and genocide, to protect the vulnerable and to stand up to injustice and hate. 

    “Learning from and about the Holocaust and more recent genocides is vitally important as we strive to do all we can to ensure our future is free from oppression, hatred, racism and persecution.”   

    The Lord Mayor, Cllr Jayne Dunn, will be attending this event alongside Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Fran Belbin, the Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Cllr Shaffaq Mohammed, and the Leader of the Green Party, Cllr Douglas Johnson. 

    Alongside this event, Sheffield City Council have contributed to the ‘80 Candles for 80 Years’, a special nationwide arts and education project launched by Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. 

    The Trust plans to hold a digital exhibition of 80 bespoke candleholders designed and created by communities and organisations from across the UK that highlight the life of an individual or a community persecuted by the Nazis. 

    Our candleholder was designed following two workshops facilitated by Ignite Imaginations with members of the Reform Jewish Congregation and Muslim members of the Dialogue Society, who came together to develop ideas for the candleholder.  

    During the workshops and afterwards, there was a strong view that the Sheffield Candleholder should also be telling the story of the unknown people who were murdered, as no one should ever be forgotten. 

    The digital exhibition is being launched with a film that will be premiered at the UK HMD ceremony in central London on 27 January 2025 to a live audience. Following a grant from The Claims Conference, the project now will include a touring exhibition across the UK from March 2025. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Take a LEAP into sports coaching!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    A new employability programme aimed at helping unemployed and under-employed people to kick start a coaching career in the leisure industry has been launched by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

    The Leisure Employability Activity Programme (LEAP) is encouraging applications from 16–30-year-olds living in the Neighbourhood Renewal Area of Lurgan, Craigavon and Portadown to give them the skills and qualifications needed to become a qualified sports coach.

    The programme is funded by the Department for Communities through the Sport in the Community programme, which aims to use sport to develop communities by providing participants with opportunities to participate in sport, gain qualifications and employment.

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Sarah Duffy said: “Sport plays a pivotal role in every society in promoting physical activity and building community spirit. This programme is a fantastic opportunity for unemployed and under-employed people to get the skills and qualifications they need to enhance their future job prospects.

    “Taking the first step into training and employment can be daunting however our experienced sports coaches and industry professionals will guide and direct you towards achieving your goals. I would encourage those with an interest in turning a passion for sports coaching into reality to register their interest in the programme.”

    Applications are currently open for three programmes – Running Leader, Football Coach and Basketball Coach. Over a period of 7 weeks, participants will complete workshops and training in areas of personal development, application writing, interview skills, coaching qualifications, safeguarding and first aid.

    For more information and to apply, please visit https://getactiveabc.com/hw_programs/leap-programme/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –