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  • MIL-OSI USA: Just Keep Roving

    Source: NASA

    2 min read

    Image from Perseverance’s Right Navigation Camera, looking back towards rover tracks from past drives, into Jezero crater. The camera is located high on the rover mast, and here the rover is looking back in the direction of the Jezero crater floor. This image was acquired on October 4th, 2024 (Sol 1288) at the local mean solar time of 12:51:26.
    NASA/JPL-Caltech

    Throughout the past week, Perseverancehas continued marching up the Jezero crater rim. This steep ascent through the Martian regolith (soil) can prove to be slow driving for the rover, as the wheels can slip on the steepest areas. This is like trying to run up a hill of sand on a beach – with every step forward, you also slip back a little way down the hill! This just means the Science and Engineering teams work together closely to plan slow and steady drives through this tricky terrain.

    Driving through the Mount Ranier quadrangle, the team identified a relatively obstacle-free path to reach the crater rim which they designated Summerland Trail, aptly named from a very popular hiking trail that ascends Mount Ranier. Perseverance is trekking to the next waypoint near an outcrop of rocks called Pico Turquino, where the science team hopes to perform its next proximity science investigations with its instruments PIXL and back-online SHERLOC.

    While roving along Summerland Trail, Perseverance is constantly observing the surrounding terrain. SuperCam and Mastcam-Z have been observing rocks on the ground and on a distant hill, called Crystal Creek. In addition, during this time Perseverance can put its eyes to the sky to make observations of the sun and atmosphere. Last week, the Mastcam-Z camera captured images of Phobos (one of Mars’ two moons) transiting in front of the sun!

    This image, showing Phobos transiting in front of the sun, was acquired using Perseverance’s Left Mastcam-Z camera. Acquired on September 30th, 2024 (Sol 1285) at the local mean solar time of 11:10:04.
    NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU

    While the Mars2020 team is itching to reach the ancient stratigraphy exposed in the crater rim, for now, the focus is on documenting our surroundings while navigating the ascent. 

    Written by Eleanor Moreland, Ph.D. Student Collaborator at Rice University

    Reference Links

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pesticides affect the health of wild bees, important plant pollinators

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Native wild bees native play a critical role in ecosystems, pollinating countless plant species, including agricultural crops. Pollination from wild and managed bees benefits some 75% of crop species and 88% of flowering plant species.

    Now, scientists supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation have found that a factor in the decline of wild bee populations is the use of pesticides. Bee populations have declined some 43% in areas with high pesticide use. The results are reported in the journal Nature Sustainability. 

    “The decline of many wild bee species has major consequences for pollination in natural and agro-ecosystems,” state the scientists in their paper. “One hypothesized cause of the declines is pesticide use; neonicotinoids and pyrethroids in particular have been shown to have pernicious effects in laboratory and field experiments and have been linked to population declines.”

    The researchers write that they discovered “that the negative effects of pesticides are widespread; the increase in neonicotinoid and pyrethroid use is a major driver of changes in occupancy across hundreds of wild bee species.” The scientists suggest that reducing pesticide use may help conservation of these important pollinators.

    Using advanced computational methods, the researchers reviewed more than 200,000 observations of more than 1,000 bee species. “The use of biological collections data to understand where organisms occur, or no longer occur, is an increasingly societally important research topic,” says Reed Beaman, a program director in the NSF Division of Biological Infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Surfing atmospheric waves with tiny satellites

    Source: US Government research organizations

    A U.S. National Science Foundation-supported team is designing and building three identical CubeSats, or shoebox-sized satellites, to study space weather and demonstrate new technologies.

    The CubeSats are part of the Space Weather Atmospheric Reconfigurable Multiscale Experiment (SWARM-EX). “The thermosphere and ionosphere system — the start of what we often think of as ‘outer space’ — is a highly variable and complex region of our atmosphere contributing to space weather,” said Scott Palo, a professor at the University of Colorado.

    The ionosphere consists of charged particles and overlaps with the neutral thermosphere. During space weather storms, charged particles collide with high-latitude atoms and molecules in the thermosphere, releasing photons, which we can observe as bright, colorful auroral displays. But space weather can also interfere with satellite electronics, radio communications, GPS signals, spacecraft orbits and even electrical power grids on Earth. ”SWARM-EX will collect data to improve space weather forecasting through a fundamental understanding of the key processes, thus reducing the potential negative impact of space weather on critical space systems,” said Palo.

    SWARM-EX’s three CubeSats will have specialized instruments to measure both the neutral and charged components of the Earth’s upper atmosphere. Their onboard radios will allow all three satellites to simultaneously send back data to a single ground station when flying in close formation. Each CubeSat will also have a cold gas propulsion system that the SWARM-EX team will use to control the relative position of the satellites to avoid any potential space debris and deorbit at the end of the science mission.

    The team is working with over 150 students from six collaborating universities to integrate and test all of the spacecraft components in a “flat-sat” configuration, which is a deconstructed version of the satellite used for testing electronics and software. The team expects to start the final spacecraft assembly and integration in the summer of 2025 with a launch target of 2026.

    Since 2008, NSF has awarded over a dozen university-led CubeSat missions for research and education in space science. “CubeSats, which are light and inexpensive compared to typical satellites, offer a unique way to advance observations in space weather and atmospheric and geospace sciences,” NSF program director Mangala Sharma said. “They also allow us to experiment with novel technologies and engage students in exciting space missions.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dead coral skeletons left by bleaching events hinder reef recovery

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Coral reefs are like underwater cities, with myriad species forming a thriving ocean metropolis. That complexity, however, can hinder a reef’s survival, scientists funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation have found. 

    After bleaching events, the dead coral skeletons left behind allow seaweed to outgrow new young coral, preventing reefs from recovering. The results are published in the journal Global Change Biology.

    The research was conducted at the NSF Moorea Coral Reef Long-Term Ecological Research site in Tahiti, one of more than two dozen such sites funded by NSF and located in ecosystems ranging from forests to deserts and lakes to oceans.

    Seaweed, or macroalgae, competes with corals for space on the reef and for light. The algae grow faster than the coral, so seaweed can overrun a reef, preventing new corals from settling and shading out colonies that do. Young coral is especially vulnerable. Once a reef turns from being covered by coral to being covered by algae, the change can be hard to reverse.

    The research team, led by Russ Schmitt of the University of California, Santa Barbara, found that dead coral skeletons could help young coral that settle on a reef shortly after a bleaching event. But corals usually spawn once a year, while many algae reproduce continually, giving seaweed the advantage in colonizing newly available substrate.

    “If the corals had died in a typhoon that removed both the corals and their skeletons, there’s a good chance new corals would have come in and the reef would have recovered,” says Dan Thornhill, a program director in the NSF Division of Ocean Sciences. “With bleaching, however, the skeletons are left behind. This legacy of dead corals is an ideal habitat for algae to take over.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Parliament’s reading of the 2025 EU budget – 17-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    During the October II plenary session, Parliament is expected to amend the Council’s position on the draft EU budget for 2025. The Committee on Budgets (BUDG) voted to reverse all of the reductions the Council has made to the Commission’s draft and proposes considerable increases in the 2025 budget for Parliament’s priorities: investments tailored to improving people’s lives, and boosting the Union’s competitiveness and sustainability. It would set 2025 commitments at almost €201 billion and payments at €153.5 billion, and proposes to finance the NGEU borrowing costs without cutting into expenditure on flagship programmes.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Fundamental freedoms: suppression and deportation of Kanak political prisoners – E-001525/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Detention issues, including decisions concerning the allocation and social rehabilitation of prisoners, are primarily a responsibility of Member States.

    All Member States have, however, committed themselves to respect the standards on this matter drafted by the Council of Europe, such as the 2006 European Prison Rules.

    Moreover, on 8 December 2022, the Commission adopted a recommendation on the procedural rights of suspects and accused in pre-trial detention and on material detention conditions[1].

    It should be noted that the minimum standards as laid down in the recommendation are not legally binding on the Member States. However, they will serve as a reference point in order to improve the situation in prisons within the EU. The Commission will monitor and assess the measures taken by Member States in the coming years.

    The Commission is committed to ensuring the respect of fundamental rights within the remit of its competences. However, the Charter applies to Member States only when they are implementing EU law, in line with its Article 51(1).

    Therefore, it is for the concerned Member State to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national law and international obligations, including the European Convention for Human Rights.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_22_7570
    Last updated: 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unacceptable state of urban transport in Attica – E-001459/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission attaches great importance to public transport as it is key to achieving more sustainable mobility and reduce congestion in urban areas.

    It seeks to promote urban transport, which is efficient, safe, sustainable and inclusive, regardless of whether it is provided by public or private operators.

    The procurement of clean road transport vehicles under Directive 2009/33/EC[1] is part of the Commission’s goal to promote sustainable transport solutions and stimulate the market for clean and energy-efficient vehicles, including zero-emission buses.

    European funds support greener public urban transport in Attica and are made available, inter alia, for the purchase of clean public transport buses in Athens, the renew of rail rolling stock on Metro Line 1, construction of new Metro Line 4, and development of the suburban rail, under the Cohesion Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and the Recovery and Resilience Facility.

    National authorities should accelerate the pace of implementation of these projects to ensure the greening of transport, sustainable and improved level of public service for all citizens.

    It is for national authorities to monitor transport operations safety and ensure that operators implement periodic maintenance and also comply with applicable labour law provisions as well as relevant technical/safety requirements including the training of staff.

    The Commission would also note that public authorities may financially support public passenger transport services, in accordance with the conditions set out in Regulation (EC) 1370/2007[2].

    The Commission would like to point out that EU law does not prescribe privatisation in the field of public transport.

    • [1] Directive 2009/33/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport vehicles OJ L 120, 15.5.2009, p. 5-12.
    • [2] Regulation (EC) No 1370/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2007 on public passenger transport services by rail and by road and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) Nos 1191/69 and 1107/70, OJ L 315, 3.12.2007, p. 1-13.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: RECOMMENDATION FOR SECOND READING on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the implementation of the Single European Sky (recast) – A10-0010/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the implementation of the Single European Sky (recast)

    (08311/2024 – C10‑0114/2024 – 2013/0186(COD))

    (Ordinary legislative procedure: second reading)

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Council position at first reading (08311/2024 – C10‑0114/2024),

    – having regard to its position at first reading[1] on the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2013)0410),

    – having regard to the amended Commission proposal (COM(2020)0579),

    – having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2020)0577 – 2020/0264(COD)),

    – having regard to Article 294(7) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Rule 68 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the recommendation for second reading of the Committee on Transport and Tourism (A10-0010/2024),

    1. Approves the Council position at first reading;

    2. Considers that, due to the incorporation of the content of Commission proposal COM(2020)0577 into that position, legislative procedure 2020/0264(COD) has lapsed;

    3. Approves the joint statement by Parliament and the Council annexed to this resolution, which will be published in the C series of the Official Journal of the European Union;

    4. Notes that the act is adopted in accordance with the Council position;

    5. Instructs its President to sign the act with the President of the Council, in accordance with Article 297(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union;

    6. Instructs its Secretary-General to sign the act, once it has been verified that all the procedures have been duly completed, and, in agreement with the Secretary-General of the Council, to arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

    7. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

     

     

    ANNEX TO THE LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    JOINT STATEMENT BY THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION

    Without prejudice to the prerogatives of the budgetary authority in the framework of the annual budgetary procedure and to the Commission’s powers to establish the draft budget, the European Parliament and the Council invite the Commission to propose in the framework of the annual budgetary procedure the creation of an additional administrative support budget line under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), financed from CEF available appropriations as identified in the Legislative Financial Statement provided by the Commission. This new budget line would cover the cost of contractual agents and other administrative expenditures for the Secretariat of the Performance Review Board, Performance Review Board and National Supervisory Authorities Cooperation Board such as technical assistance, expert costs, contracts for data provision, external studies and for additional consultancy services, while establishment plan posts will be financed from the administrative budget line under Heading 7, with full respect of the current Multiannual Financial Framework Regulation. To the extent possible, such a financing under CEF should be without prejudice to the funds already earmarked in the latest CEF Transport Work Programme.

    The financing under CEF of contractual agents and other administrative expenditures for the Secretariat of the Performance Review Board, Performance Review Board and National Supervisory Authorities Cooperation Board should not set a precedent for the financing of the Secretariat of other boards. It should not prejudge in any way the financing arrangements to be agreed upon in the framework of the next Multiannual Financial Framework Regulation.

     

     

    SHORT JUSTIFICATION

    The Council position at first reading reflects the agreement reached between Parliament and the Council in interinstitutional negotiations at early second-reading stage. The agreed text has been the result of complex negotiations but the co-legislators have reached a satisfactory compromise text aiming to set provisions to make air navigation services and network management contribute to climate neutrality. EU performance targets on capacity, cost efficiency, climate and environmental factors for air navigation services will be developed by the Commission and the performance of these services against these targets will be reviewed at least every three years.

    An independent advisory Performance Review Board will be established to help the Commission and Member States take decisions on the implementation of performance plans for air navigation services to improve network management of EU airspace, that will have to have binding targets and incentives to make flights more efficient and environmentally friendly.

    The agreement also stipulates that the air navigation service providers and the national supervisory authority can be part of the same organisation as long as they are functionally separated and fulfil independence requirements. Member States may merge economic and safety oversight functions in the same administrative entity and they may authorise the opening of certain air navigation services to market conditions.

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEURS HAVE RECEIVED INPUT

    The rapporteurs declare under their exclusive responsibility that they did not receive input from any entity or person to be mentioned in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Implementation of the Single European Sky (recast)

    References

    08311/1/2024 – C10-0114/2024 – 2013/0186(COD)

    Date of Parliament’s first reading – P number

    12.3.2014 T7-0220/2014

    Draft act considered at first reading

    COM(2013)0410 – C7-0171/2013

    Amended Commission proposal

    COM(2020)0579 – C9-0334/2020

    Receipt of Council position at first reading announced in plenary

    10.10.2024

    Committee(s) responsible

    TRAN

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Jens Gieseke

    30.9.2024

    Johan Danielsson

    30.9.2024

     

     

    Previous rapporteurs

    Marian-Jean Marinescu

    Boguslaw Liberadzki

     

     

    Date adopted

    14.10.2024

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    30

    1

    5

    Members present for the final vote

    Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Adrian-George Axinia, Tom Berendsen, Rachel Blom, Nikolina Brnjac, Nina Carberry, Benoit Cassart, Anna Maria Cisint, Vivien Costanzo, Johan Danielsson, Valérie Devaux, Siegbert Frank Droese, Jens Gieseke, Borja Giménez Larraz, Sérgio Gonçalves, Sophia Kircher, Luis-Vicențiu Lazarus, Julien Leonardelli, Milan Mazurek, Ştefan Muşoiu, Philippe Olivier, Matteo Ricci, Arash Saeidi, Andreas Schieder, Rosa Serrano Sierra, Kai Tegethoff

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Arno Bausemer, Asger Christensen, Norbert Lins, Lena Schilling, Tomas Tobé

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Fredis Beleris, Katrin Langensiepen, Hélder Sousa Silva, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Marion Walsmann

    Date tabled

    17.10.2024

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Issues at stake in view of the COP29 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku-Scaling up climate action and support – 17-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    This study provides an overview of the status of international climate negotiations and issues at stake at the COP29 climate change conference. It also addresses the current implementation of the Paris Agreement, the climate policies of key Parties and the stakeholders in the negotiations. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI).

    External author

    Lorenz MOOSMANN, Felix FALLASCH, Hannes JUNG, Sophia LAUER, Nora WISSNER, Cristina URRUTIA, Lambert SCHNEIDER, Dietram OPPELT, Stefanie VON HEINEMANN, Neeta SHARMA, Anders MCCARTHY & Bianca KOHLER

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ukraine Mine Action Conference UMAC2024

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Lausanne, 17.10.2024 – Address by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – Check against delivery

    Excellencies,
    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    I’d like to begin by saying, at the end of this day, that my thoughts go out to the Ukrainian people suffering in the midst of this war, to those who have lost a parent, a loved one, a child.

    Mine action is not an end in itself. It saves lives and limbs and is a precondition for sustainable development in affected places. In Ukraine, confronted with such a large-scale contamination, it is stage Zero of reconstruction and the recovery process.

    In other words: Mine action is anything but a quiet road. And at the end of this high-level day of the conference, I am proud to report that we have paved the way for continued international cooperation and support in this area.

    Our shared commitment to humanitarian mine action has brought together high-level representatives from governments, international and regional organizations, the private sector and academia.

    Your participation has demonstrated the importance of this collective engagement — not just for Ukraine, but for the global community.

    A lot has already been done, with three Recovery Conferences in Lugano, London and Berlin; last year’s International Conference on Demining in Zagreb; and all technical discussions which have led us to Lausanne today.

    Throughout the day, we’ve explored key issues that have touched us, provided insights and hopefully brought us a step further. With much work ahead and concrete engagement needed.

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Switzerland is actively financing projects in Ukraine that make a real difference on the ground, saving lives by reducing risks for the civilian population.

    In the vast territories suspected of mine contamination, we are supporting rapid surveys and efforts to return cleared land to productive civilian use.

    Our focus has been particularly strong in the Kharkiv region, which has seen the highest number of mine-related accidents. Here, we partner with the Fondation suisse de déminage FSD, one of the most experienced demining operators in Ukraine.

    We will continue this impactful collaboration: last week, my government has decided to allocate an additional 30 million CHF to the FSD so that it can expand its activities in the Kharkiv and Kherson regions until 2027.

    Starting in 2025, these efforts will be enhanced by innovative technologies, including the use of detection dogs and Swiss-made demining machines.
    Moreover, we place great importance on developing local expertise, with the aim of supporting a Ukrainian humanitarian demining NGO to become fully autonomous by 2027.

    Switzerland also engages in risk education and in victim assistance programs. We are working to prevent new victims and to assist the survivors who have suffered injuries by mines and explosive remnants of war. Supporting their rehabilitation and reintegration remains central to our mission.

    Additionally, Switzerland was one of the first to support the UN initiative to return agricultural land to farmers, an effort that has now received broad international backing. This project is vital to restarting agricultural production in contaminated areas, contributing to both local and global food security.

    At the same time, we should not forget the continuous challenges in affected countries around the world and Switzerland will keep up its assistance. Based on the Swiss Action Plan for 2023-2026, we will continue strengthening the norms against mines, supporting mine action on the ground and promoting innovative solutions.

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Mine action in Ukraine is done for Ukraine, with Ukraine – and to a large part by Ukraine.
    Mine action programs should be nationally owned and led, supported by international and national partners.

    In Ukraine, the basis for our cooperation and assistance is the recently adopted National Mine Action Strategy and the Operational Plan.

    It is now my honor to present to you the outcome document of this Conference: the Lausanne Call for Action.

    This document reflects our collective will to take concrete steps. We want to support the implementation of the strategy and address mine contamination in Ukraine and around the world.

    The Lausanne Call for Action focuses on the three key pillars: People, Partners, and Progress.

    •    Under the People pillar, we commit to carrying out safe and high-quality mine action activities and to restore contaminated land to safe and productive use.  We will also address the needs of victims and people with disabilities.

    •    Under Partners, we call to continue international cooperation and to promote sustainable national capacities. The goal is to foster long-term and all-encompassing cooperation aligned with national strategic objectives.

    •    The pillar Progress underscores the importance to explore new sources of funding. We emphasize the value of exchanging experiences, best practices and lessons learnt and want to develop and use innovative methods and technologies.

    Ladies and Gentlemen

    This document is not just another declaration; it is a commitment — a call for collective action to restore safety, rebuild lives, and sustain long-term recovery.

    Our efforts will remain on the global agenda, with our eyes set on the next Ukraine Mine Action Conference in 2025, which will be hosted in Japan.

    I sincerely hope that by then, we’ll be able to talk about both demining and peace in Ukraine.

    In closing, I thank you all for your participation, engagement, and dedication. The journey continues tomorrow with technical discussions, and I encourage you all to contribute to those essential conversations.

    Thank you.

    Address for enquiries

    FDFA Communication
    Federal Palace West Wing
    CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
    Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @SwissMFA

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Combating child sexual abuse and exploitation – 17-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    The impact assessment (IA) effectively substantiates the need for a recast of the Child Sexual Abuse Directive, to expand the definitions of offences, and introduce higher penalties and more specific requirements for prevention and assistance for victims. The IA draws largely on the findings of an ex-post evaluation of the Child Sexual Abuse Directive, which provided input and concrete evidence of the need for regulatory intervention. The IA presents a well evidenced problem definition and identifies the initiative’s general and specific objectives, which appear to be specific, achievable, relevant and measurable but not time-bound, as recommended by the Better Regulation Toolbox ‘S.M.A.R.T.’ criteria. The IA considered three cumulative options; however, it remains unclear whether such options really qualify as ‘alternative options’, in respect of the Better Regulation Guidelines requirement to provide a sufficient range of policy options. The IA examined all the options’ security, social, economic, and fundamental rights impacts. However, although the IA mentions that child sexual abuse infringes children’s fundamental rights under the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, it analyses the impact on fundamental rights only briefly under the dedicated chapter. In addition, the analysis would have benefited from a more in-depth assessment of the balance between the different fundamental rights of children and users, and of the proportionality of the measures envisaged. The IA considers that the financial impact is expected to be outweighed by the positive economic impact relating to the reduction in the prevalence of child sexual abuse in the EU through prevention, protection, support, investigation and prosecution. The IA is transparent about the evidence and analytical methods used, including the underlying assumptions and limitations. Stakeholders were widely consulted and their views taken into account; however, the feedback from this consultation strategy could have been reflected more effectively in the IA, particularly regarding the available policy options and their potential impacts. The European Commission made efforts to take the Regulatory Scrutiny Board’s comments into account, but some weaknesses remain. It appears that the legislative proposal follows the IA’s preferred option.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Negative impact of the ban on internal combustion engines on employment – E-001811/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001811/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Engin Eroglu (Renew), Christine Singer (Renew), Joachim Streit (Renew)

    The de facto ban on new combustion engine cars from 2035 has already led to a shift in the production processes of car manufacturers in the EU.

    It is no secret that the manufacture of electric cars is less labour intensive than that of combustion engine cars – this politically imposed technological change therefore affects the whole value chain. Many automotive suppliers are already dismissing employees.

    The most recent case of Volkswagen cutting jobs and possibly closing plants is yet another example and more will follow.

    • 1.When deciding on the ban on the internal combustion engine, was the Commission aware of its negative impact on employment?
    • 2.What studies on the loss of jobs caused by the ban on combustion engines is the Commission aware of and which of these, in the opinion of the Commission, provides a reasonable basis for calculation?
    • 3.Would a more open and technology-neutral approach to reducing emissions have resulted in fewer job losses?

    Submitted: 25.9.2024

    Last updated: 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Danger to the physical and mental safety of European adolescents and young people on social networks – P-002083/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    15.10.2024

    Priority question for written answer  P-002083/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Laura Ballarín Cereza (S&D)

    National Public Radio (NPR)[1] in the US disclosed internal TikTok documents, indicating that the platform was aware of the risks that its design and algorithm posed to adolescents and young people, especially in terms of the addiction they could generate and their contribution to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders. They also show that its management was aware that minors used the platform to make live transmissions, such as in the cases of 15-year-old girls stripping live on the platform in exchange for ‘gifts’[2].

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission consider that social networks pose an imminent danger to the physical and mental safety of European children and young people?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to hold social network owners who were aware of what was happening accountable?
    • 3.Is the Commission planning immediate action to ensure that social networks reduce the risks posed by their designs, algorithms and lack of security, as set out in the Digital Services Act?

    Submitted: 15.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.npr.org/2024/10/11/g-s1-27676/tiktok-redacted-documents-in-teen-safety-lawsuit-revealed
    • [2] https://www.lavanguardia.com/vida/20241015/10021767/informes-internos-revelan-tiktok-tanto-desnudos-ninas-cambio-dinero.html
    Last updated: 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Confirmation hearing of Commissioner-designate Šefčovič – Committee on International Trade

    Source: European Parliament

    The designated candidates of the von der Leyen Commission will be heard by the EP committees dealing with their respective portfolios from 04/11/2024 until 12/11/2024. During each confirmation hearing, the commissioner-designate will give an opening speech and then answer questions by committee members. More detailed information, including the candidates’ portfolios, the procedure, the schedule, the latest news and a live webstreaming during and record after the hearing, can be found on the dedicated webpage.

    INTA will be jointly responsible with the Constitutional Affairs Committee (AFCO) for the confirmation hearing of Maroš Šefčovič, Commissioner-designate for Trade and Economic Security and for Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency.

    Maroš Šefčovič’s confirmation hearing will take place on Monday 4 November between 14:30 and 17:30.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Thursday, 24 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    55 Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 10:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 11:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 19:00 56 People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 10:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 11:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 19:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 18 October 2024, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 22 October 2024, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Tuesday, 22 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    31 Implementation of the Single European Sky
    Jens Gieseke, Johan Danielsson     – Amendments; rejection Friday, 18 October 2024, 13:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00 19 Draft amending budget No 2/2024: entering the surplus of the financial year 2023
    Siegfried Mureşan (A10-0005/2024)      – Amendments Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 13:00 21 Draft amending budget 4/2024: update of revenue (own resources) and adjustments to some decentralised agencies
    Siegfried Mureşan (A10-0007/2024)      – Amendments Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 13:00 28 Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2024/001 BE/Match-Smatch
    Michalis Hadjipantela (A10-0009/2024)      – Amendments Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 13:00 22 Discharge 2022: EU general budget – European Council and Council
    Jonas Sjöstedt (A10-0003/2024)      – Amendments Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 13:00 20 General budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025 – all sections
    Victor Negrescu, Niclas Herbst (A10-0008/2024)      – Amendments Thursday, 17 October 2024, 12:00 27 Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States
    Li Andersson (A10-0004/2024)      – Amendments Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 13:00 55 Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 10:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 11:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 19:00 56 People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 10:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 11:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 19:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 18 October 2024, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 22 October 2024, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Monday, 21 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    31 Implementation of the Single European Sky
    Jens Gieseke, Johan Danielsson
        – Amendments; rejection Friday, 18 October 2024, 13:00
        – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00
    Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 18 October 2024, 12:00
    Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00
    Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 22 October 2024, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Wednesday, 23 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    44 General budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025 – all sections     – Draft amendments to the general budget – committees, at least 36 Members Thursday, 5 September 2024, 12:00     – Draft amendments to the general budget – political groups Thursday, 12 September 2024, 12:00     – Retabling of amendments rejected in committee Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 12:00     – Requests for “separate votes”, “split votes” and “roll-call votes” on amendments to the draft budget Monday, 21 October 2024, 12:00 20 General budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025 – all sections
    Victor Negrescu, Niclas Herbst (A10-0008/2024)      – Amendments Thursday, 17 October 2024, 12:00 27 Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States
    Li Andersson (A10-0004/2024)      – Amendments Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 13:00 34 Urgent need to revise the medical devices regulation     – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 16 October 2024, 13:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Monday, 21 October 2024, 20:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Tuesday, 22 October 2024, 16:00 52 EU actions against the Russian shadow fleets and ensuring a full enforcement of sanctions against Russia     – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 6 November 2024, 13:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Monday, 11 November 2024, 12:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Monday, 11 November 2024, 13:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 18 October 2024, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 21 October 2024, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 22 October 2024, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Draft agenda – Thursday, 14 November 2024 – Brussels

    Source: European Parliament

    11 Electronic value added tax exemption certificate
    Aurore Lalucq
        – (if requested) Amendments Wednesday, 6 November 2024, 13:00
    12 Faster and Safer Relief of Excess Withholding Taxes
    Herbert Dorfmann
        – (if requested) Amendments Wednesday, 6 November 2024, 13:00
    8 Amendment of the EIB’s Statute
    Joachim Streit
        – (possibly) Amendments Wednesday, 6 November 2024, 13:00
    14 EU actions against the Russian shadow fleets and ensuring a full enforcement of sanctions against Russia
        – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 6 November 2024, 13:00
        – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Monday, 11 November 2024, 12:00
        – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Monday, 11 November 2024, 13:00
    Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 12 November 2024, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Draft agenda – Wednesday, 13 November 2024 – Brussels

    Source: European Parliament

    1     Resumption of session and order of business
    13   Conclusions of the European Council meetings of October and November 2024
    European Council and Commission statements
    [2024/2783(RSP)]
    4   UN Climate Change Conference 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29)
    Oral question – [2024/2718(RSP)]
             
    Antonio Decaro, Lídia Pereira, Javi López, Emma Wiesner, Lena Schilling, Nikolas Farantouris (O-000010/2024)
    Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
    Council
    2024 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29)
             
    Antonio Decaro, Lídia Pereira, Javi López, Emma Wiesner, Lena Schilling, Nikolas Farantouris (O-000009/2024)
    Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
    Commission
    2024 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29)
    2     One-minute speeches (Rule 179)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Activities of the Emergency Response Coordination Centre – P-001773/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Central and Eastern Europe has been affected by heavy rains and strong winds. As of 13 September 2024, Poland, Germany, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania pro-actively activated the rapid mapping of the Copernicus Emergency Management Service for flood delineation and damage assessment[1].

    The Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC)[2] works on a 24 hours /7 days basis to carry out its mandate that includes, among other tasks, monitoring of unfolding or potential disasters and their impacts.

    In this context, the ERCC daily monitors the forecast estimates for potential flooding across Europe, through the dedicated European Flood Awareness System (EFAS)[3] of the Copernicus Emergency Management Service. EFAS complements the national systems to raise awareness.

    From the onset, the ERCC was in contact with the national civil protection authorities of Austria, Croatia, Czechia, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia to raise awareness about possible upcoming floods and offered support through the Union Civil Protection Mechanism[4].

    • [1] https://emergency.copernicus.eu/mapping/ems/flood-delineation
    • [2] https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/emergency-response-coordination-centre-ercc_en
    • [3] https://european-flood.emergency.copernicus.eu/en
    • [4] https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/eu-civil-protection-mechanism_en
    Last updated: 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Join Senate Colleagues in Urging Continued Action to Address IV Fluid Shortage Amidst Hurricane Helene Recovery

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and Bob Casey (D-PA) in sending a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra urging continued action to address the critical intravenous (IV) fluid shortage affecting hospitals across the nation. This shortage, caused by the temporary closure of Baxter International’s manufacturing plant in North Carolina due to flooding from Hurricane Helene, has created significant challenges for health care providers in Virginia and across the country. 
    The senators’ letter comes in response to the production halt at Baxter International, the largest manufacturer of intravenous (IV) solutions in the United States, which produces nearly two-thirds of the IV fluids used in U.S. hospitals. While federal agencies—including the HHS, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR)—work to increase supply from other manufacturers, allow temporary importation of products manufactured abroad, and provide guidance on compounded alternatives, hospitals across the country, including in Virginia, continue to face shortages and need clear communication to effectively plan for the months ahead. The letter emphasized that the federal response must especially prioritize providers whose patient communities will be most at risk in the face of continued shortages. 
    “The uncertainty created by reduced product deliveries has led to conservation policies in health facilities across our states. After orders were recently cancelled, some providers have reported having only single-digit days’ worth of product on hand, while others are utilizing over the-counter oral hydration solutions like Gatorade—and fear reduced allocations of those alternatives as well. While providers are seeing promising results from HHS’s actions so far, we must ensure this progress continues,” wrote the senators.  
    “As you take the necessary steps to increase production of IV products at alternative domestic sites, facilitate the expedited arrival of additional product from overseas, and review product shelf life to consider extensions, we ask you provide clear and continuous communication to health providers on their options and the path forward as communities recover from this storm and any impact that may stem from Hurricane Milton,” the senators concluded. 
    Read the full letter to Secretary Becerra here and below: 
    Dear Secretary Becerra:
    We appreciate the Biden Administration’s efforts to swiftly respond to the catastrophic damage caused across the southeast by Hurricane Helene. As you continue this recovery work, on behalf of our constituents and the health care providers who serve them, we write to urge you to continue to work with hospital and health system partners to address disruptions in the intravenous (IV) solution supply chain resulting from the hurricane-induced closure of the Baxter International plant in North Cove, North Carolina.
    As you know, Baxter is the largest manufacturer of IV solutions in the United States. Their facility in Western North Carolina produces nearly two-thirds of the IV solution used to provide health care nationwide. As you also know, to protect from stockpiling, Baxter has instituted limits on the amount of saline solution and dextrose product hospitals and health systems are currently able to order. We are encouraged by steps taken by your agency and other federal government agencies to move product more quickly, including rebuilding physical infrastructure, working with manufacturing partners to increase supply from other sites, and providing guidance on appropriate compounding.
    However, the uncertainty created by reduced product deliveries has led to conservation policies in health facilities across our states. After orders were recently canceled, some providers have reported having only single-digit days’ worth of product on hand, while others are utilizing over-the-counter oral hydration solutions like Gatorade—and fear reduced allocations of those alternatives as well. While providers are seeing promising results from HHS’s actions so far, we must ensure this progress continues.
    As you take the necessary steps to increase production of IV products at alternative domestic sites, facilitate the expedited arrival of additional product from overseas, and review product shelf life to consider extensions, we ask you provide clear and continuous communication to health providers on their options and the path forward as communities recover from this storm and any impact that may stem from Hurricane Milton. We also request intentional outreach to safety net, tribal, and rural providers, as well as those caring for vulnerable populations who may lack the resources to sustain prolonged shortages. Hospitals and health systems in our states are eager to work with you to protect patient care and welcome your outreach. 
    We look forward to working with you to ensure timely and robust communication to keep our communities healthy. Thank you for your attention to this matter. 
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement of Senate Intel Chairman Warner on the Death of Yahya Sinwar

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued a statement on the death of Hamas terrorist Yahya Sinwar:

    “Earlier today I spoke with Director Burns, who confirmed that Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and one of the masterminds of the October 7 terrorist attack, has been killed in Gaza. As a terrorist leader, Sinwar was responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocents, including Americans, Israelis and Palestinians. While justice has been served to Sinwar, let us not forget that the terrorist network he headed still holds dozens of people hostage in Gaza, and we must continue to press for their safe return.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Announces Stephanie M. Hinds as Director of the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Attorney General Merrick B. Garland today announced that Stephanie M. Hinds has been appointed as the Director of the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA).

    “Stephanie is a superb leader with decades of experience at the Justice Department who will be an outstanding advocate for all 94 of our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country,” said Attorney General Garland. “Since joining the Justice Department 29 years ago, Stephanie has advanced its mission in a wide range of roles. The Justice Department, and the American people, are fortunate to have her in this role. I am grateful to her for her continued dedication to this Department and to the public we serve.”

    Prior to her appointment, Hinds served as Associate Deputy Attorney General beginning in May 2023. Hinds previously served as the Interim and Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California (NDCA) from March 2021 to March 2023. At NDCA since 1995, Hinds also served in various positions such as First Assistant U.S. Attorney, Deputy U.S. Attorney, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division, Chief of the Asset Forfeiture Section, and as an Assistant U.S. Attorney.

    Norman Wong, who has been serving as the Acting Director of EOUSA since July 1, 2023, will return to his position as Principal Deputy Director.

    “Norm Wong has been an excellent steward of EOUSA since becoming Acting Director of the Office in July 2023,” said Attorney General Garland. “Norm is an extraordinary public servant, and I am grateful to him for all he has done and will continue to do on behalf of EOUSA.”

    Learn more about EOUSA at http://www.justice.gov/usao.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Mark Totten Announces District Election Officer, Hotline, Website To Help Ensure Safe, Secure November 2024 Election

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. – U.S. Attorney Mark Totten announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Austin Hakes will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.  AUSA Hakes will serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Western District of Michigan, overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington, D.C. In addition, U.S. Attorney Totten announced a hotline, 616-808-2140, and website for members of the public to make a complaint or share information related to voting rights concerns.

              “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.  The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”       

              WATCH: Voting Rights Video Message from U.S. Attorney Mark Totten 

              The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

              Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 

              United States Attorney Totten stated: “Voting is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who have the right to vote can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”

              To respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA Hakes will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. 

              In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public.

              Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

              United States Attorney Totten said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

              Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Announces $600,000 to Reduce Forensic DNA Backlog, Deliver Justice to Victims of Crimes Statewide

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    Providence, RI – U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Jack Reed and Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs has awarded $600,000 in funding to the Rhode Island Department of Health’s Center for Forensic Sciences to reduce the backlog of DNA casework and ensure justice can be served for victims of both violent and non-violent crimes.  With this funding, the state’s crime lab expects to typically process cases within 30 days for violent crimes and 90 days for non-violent crimes.  

    “No victim of a crime should have to wait for justice to be served because of insufficient resources to analyze DNA evidence in a timely fashion,” said Whitehouse, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and former U.S. Attorney and Rhode Island Attorney General.  “This federal funding will help retain qualified forensic scientists, make upgrades to the state’s laboratory, and bring justice and closure to victims throughout Rhode Island.”

    “This federal funding will help the state’s crime lab effectively process DNA samples, solve more cases, and help law enforcement bring perpetrators to justice,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies.

    “Justice ought to be delivered swiftly to victims of crime and their families, and this federal funding will make this a reality for Rhode Islanders by reducing the backlog of DNA casework and holding perpetrators accountable,” said Congressman Magaziner.

    “As forensic technology advancements help investigators better match DNA found at crime scenes, it’s critically important that we invest in new instruments and training to help secure justice for victims of crime in Rhode Island — no matter how much time has elapsed,” said Congressman Amo. “This federal investment by the Department of Justice will reduce the casework backlog and bolster our state’s capacity to process incoming DNA cases quickly and efficiently.”

    This grant funding,which comes through the Department of Justice’s DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program, will help the Center for Forensic Sciences’ Forensic Biology and DNA Laboratory continue to reduce the backlog of DNA casework.  Funding will also prevent future backlogs with the purchase of new DNA analysis instruments, an upgraded laboratory information management system, and increased education and training opportunities for scientists.  With these investments, the Forensic Biology and DNA Laboratory expects to reduce the DNA casework backlog by at least 125 cases and continue to be able to process incoming cases within an average 90-day time frame for non-violent crimes and a 30-day time frame for violent crimes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lowell Man Arrested for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Lowell man has been arrested for his involvement in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.

    Jorge Manuel “Manny” Huertas, 46, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Huertas will make his initial appearance in federal court in Boston later today.

    According to the charging document, Huertas distributed counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine to a confidential source. Search warrants were conducted this morning at Huertas’s residence and the residences of his associates.

    The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine carries a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 40 years, at least four years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $5,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration; and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lowell Police Department and the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Panich of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Commends Work of Whiteman Air Force Base and B-2 Stealth Bomber Following U.S. Airstrikes Against Houthi Targets

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Alford Commends Work of Whiteman Air Force Base and B-2 Stealth Bomber Following U.S. Airstrikes Against Houthi Targets

    Washington, October 17, 2024

    Raymore, Mo. – Following recent U.S. airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) emphasized the critical role that the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and the men and women of Whiteman Air Force Base play in securing America’s national defense and deterring global threats.

    This is the first time that the U.S. has used bombers against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. 

    “Whiteman Air Force Base is home to the B-2 stealth bomber, a cornerstone of America’s ability to deter threats and project power worldwide. We’re grateful for the dedicated service members at Whiteman who were vital in carrying out this key strike against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The reckless attacks by these terrorists in the Red Sea against global trade and military personnel cannot continue to go unanswered. The men and women of Whiteman are always ready to answer the call,” said Congressman Alford.

    On Wednesday, the U.S. announced it hit Houthi targets in Yemen with long-range bombers in an effort to discourage further attacks against commercial and military vessels in the Middle East.  The strike included U.S. Air Force and Navy assets, including B-2 Spirit bombers. 

    In recent military operations, the B-2 has proven its unmatched capability to penetrate fortified targets. This success highlights the critical role that Whiteman Air Force Base plays in defending the United States. 

    Key Facts:

    • Whiteman AFB is home to the B-2 Spirit, a key element in America’s strategic deterrence.
    • The B-21 Raider will soon join Whiteman’s fleet, further bolstering our defense capabilities.
    • Congressman Alford has worked to secure essential resources for Whiteman AFB, including $19,500,000 for flightline fueling facilities.
    • Congressman Alford voted to fully fund the B-2 and B-21 bombers, ensuring their continued strength and readiness for America’s long-range strike capabilities. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joint African Development Bank- Government of Japan Visit to FAPA-Funded Projects in Ghana

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    The African Development Bank and the Government of Japan recently concluded a joint visit to two projects funded by the Fund for African Private Sector Assistance (FAPA) in Ghana to assess their impact on stimulating the growth of small businesses and boosting private sector development.

    The Japanese delegation led by Japan’s Deputy Vice Minister of Finance for International Affairs, Mr. Daiho Fujii, together with the African Development Bank’s Executive Director for Japan, Mr. Takaaki Nomoto, were received by the African Development Bank Country Manager for Ghana, Ms. Eyerusalem Fasika. The Delegation engaged with implementing agencies and beneficiaries of two FAPA funded projects – the Ghana SME Business Linkage Program, and Fashionomics Africa Online Platform and Mobile App.

    FAPA, a joint initiative between the Bank and the Japanese government, provides untied grants to support the implementation of the Bank’s Private Sector Development Strategy. Through capacity building and technical assistance, the Fund enhances the business environment, strengthens financial systems, promotes the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and facilitates trade across African countries.

    Focusing on the projects’ contribution to Ghana’s broader economic and social development goals, Deputy Vice Minister Fujii reaffirmed Japan’s support to FAPA and the Bank. “My thrill turned into confidence that the Japanese taxpayers’ money via FAPA contributes to motivating the beneficiaries by developing their businesses as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and improving their livelihood and well-being. I was also glad that FAPA projects in Ghana played the catalytic role in applying such models to other African countries and in attracting other donors.”

    Referencing the positive impact of the projects, Fasika emphasized FAPA’s pivotal role in driving inclusive private sector development and economic growth, creating job opportunities, and reducing poverty. She also expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support and highlighted the importance of the partnership between the Bank and the Government of Japan. “The projects funded by FAPA are clear examples of how strategic partnerships can have a tangible impact on the ground. We are pleased with the progress made and the transformative effects these projects have on local communities (in Ghana),” she stated.

    The visit underscores the continued commitment of the African Development Bank and the Government of Japan to fostering economic growth and strengthening private sector development in Africa through sustainable and impactful investments.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Coming Soon: Regional Economic Outlook for the Middle East and Central Asia, October 2024

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    COMING SOON

    Launch of the October 2024 Regional Economic Outlook for the Middle East and Central Asia

    The Regional Economic Outlook (REO) report provides comprehensive insights into recent economic developments and future prospects specifically for countries in the region. It analyzes the impact of economic policy changes on performance, highlighting key challenges faced by policymakers in navigating complex economic landscapes.

    IMPORTANT DATES
    • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 10:30 AM ET: Press Briefing: Regional Economic Outlook for the Middle East and Central Asia
    • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2 AM ET/10 AM GMT+4: Full report release with press briefing in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    The chapters and main report will be available for download on this page starting on October 31. Stay tuned for updates!

    Publications

    MIL OSI Economics –