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  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Announces Appointments to Newly Created School Financing Review Commission

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Announces Appointments to Newly Created School Financing Review Commission

    LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced appointments to the School Financing Review Commission, as created through the passage of LB303. The bill, which received bipartisan support from the Legislature on a vote of 48-0, was introduced on the Governor’s behalf by Senator Jana Hughes. When passed, LB303 included an emergency clause, making it effective when Gov. Pillen signed it on June 4.

    The commission, consisting of 18 members, is tasked with reviewing the state’s school funding formula – the Tax Equity and Educational Opportunities Support Act (TEEOSA) – and providing the Legislature with annual recommendations about adjustments to ensure stable state aid to schools, while also reducing property taxes.

    “I believe the state needs to fulfill its constitutional obligation to fund public K-12 education. Not run those schools but fund them. Creation of this commission is a first, but critically important step in fixing the 35-year problem that has resulted from TEEOSA,” said Gov. Pillen. “If we are to get a grip on the state’s property tax crisis, we must be willing to address the ever-growing burden that falls on property tax as a result of footing the bill for our schools.”

    Commissioner of Education Brian Maher will serve as the commission’s chairperson and the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) will provide assistance to the group. The remaining 17 positions, and the Governor’s appointees, are listed below.

    Property Tax Administrator (or designee):

    Sarah Scott, Property Tax Administrator

    Governor’s Representative:

    Grant Latimer, Policy Advisor to Governor Pillen

    Representatives Appointed by the Legislature (three, nonvoting):

    Senator Dave Murman, Chairman, Education Committee

    Senator Eliot Bostar, Appointed by the Revenue Committee

    Senator Jana Hughes, Appointed by the Executive Board

    Postsecondary Education Representative with Expertise in School Finance:

    Paul Turman, Chancellor, State College System

    Superintendents or School Board Members from Class I, II, III Districts (four):

    Class I: Ann Foster, Superintendent, Brady Public Schools

    Class II: Jason Dolliver, Superintendent, Pender Public Schools

    Class III: Aaron Plas, Superintendent, Bennington Public Schools

    Additional: Keith Runge, President, Columbus Lakeview School Board

    Class IV District Member (one) and Class V District Member (one):

    Class IV: Liz Standish, Associate Superintendent for Business Affairs, Lincoln Public

    Class V: Shavonna Holman, School Board Member, Omaha Public

    At-Large Members (five):

    Former Senator Lou Ann Linehan

    State Treasurer Tom Briese

    Certified Public School Teacher: (This position has not yet been appointed)

    Former Senator Fred Meyer

    John Schwartz, Superintendent, Millard Public Schools

    “I appreciate the commitment of these dedicated public servants who, like me, want to ensure the quality of our state’s education, but recognize the need to balance that investment with smart tax policy, making us more competitive with our neighboring states so we can grow Nebraska,” said Gov Pillen. “We are fortunate to have leadership on this commission ready to begin this important initiative.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 301 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) remains connected to its last remaining main power line following the recent loss of all off-site power on 4 July, an ongoing situation that highlights the heightened nuclear safety and security risks during the conflict, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said today.

    The loss of power– the ninth since the start of the conflict in February 2022 – forced the ZNPP to rely on its backup diesel generators for almost four hours as the plant’s one remaining back-up line remains disconnected after being reportedly damaged by military activity on 7 May. The IAEA team based at the ZNPP site— Europe’s largest nuclear facility — was informed this week that the emergency diesel generator fuel tanks used during the loss of power have since been replenished and the site has enough fuel to enable operation of emergency diesel generators for approximately 20 days, in case of a loss of off-site power event.

    The IAEA team at South Ukraine nuclear power plant (SUNPP) reported that the plant also lost its connection to one 750 kilovolt (kV) off-site power line on 4 July, for approximately the same time as the ZNPP lost off-site power. During that time, the SUNPP continued to receive off-site power from its other 750 kV line and all of its 330 kV power lines. There was no impact on the one unit currently operating, while the other two units continue planned maintenance and refueling activities.

    The IAEA team continued to assess the availability of spare parts necessary for the continued safe operation of the plant by visiting the storage areas for the parts in the thermomechanical and electrical warehouses located within the ZNPP’s site perimeter and will be requesting the findings of recent audits by the ZNPP of spare parts. The team is also expecting to be updated on the delayed procurement of spare parts needed so that the ZNPP can commence annual maintenance of all 20 emergency diesel generators which are essential to safety in case of a loss of off-site power event.

    Also this week, the IAEA team reported that maintenance activities continue at the site, including on one safety train of unit 2 and on the main transformer of unit 4, while maintenance on one safety train of unit 5 is expected to be completed on Friday. Recently, the team also visited all main control rooms where it confirmed the number of operating staff present and recorded safety parameters for all units.

    The IAEA team reported hearing military activity on most days over the past week, including gunfire near the plant on 4 July and three explosions close to the plant on 5 July.

    The IAEA team at the Rivne nuclear power plant (NPP) reported that one reactor continues its planned maintenance and refueling activities, and one other unit was required to temporarily reduce reactor power to enable for the inspection and repair of one of the turbines. The repairs were successfully completed, and the reactor has returned to nominal full power.

    IAEA teams present at all sites — the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs and the Chornobyl NPP site — reported hearing air raid alarms on most days over the past week. At the Khmelnytskyy NPP the team was informed that drones were observed as close as five kilometres from the site, while the team at the Rivne NPP had to shelter at its hotel on two separate days and the teams at the Khmelnytskyy and Rivne NPPs sheltered at site today. The team at the Chornobyl NPP site reported hearing the sounds of a drone and anti-aircraft fire at the Chornobyl NPP site on the evening of 9 July, and were informed by the site management that a drone had reportedly flown over the open switchyard and was intercepted by the military. 

    As part of the IAEA’s comprehensive assistance programme to support nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, the Chornobyl NPP site received equipment aimed at enhancing the nuclear security measures at the site and the Khmelnytskyy and South Ukraine NPPs received equipment aimed at enhancing radiation monitoring capabilities. Additionally, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center and the hydrometeorological organizations of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine received multipurpose radiation monitoring devices.

    These deliveries were funded by the European Union, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, and brought the total number of IAEA-coordinated deliveries since the start of the armed conflict to 146.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Update 301 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) remains connected to its last remaining main power line following the recent loss of all off-site power on 4 July, an ongoing situation that highlights the heightened nuclear safety and security risks during the conflict, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said today.

    The loss of power– the ninth since the start of the conflict in February 2022 – forced the ZNPP to rely on its backup diesel generators for almost four hours as the plant’s one remaining back-up line remains disconnected after being reportedly damaged by military activity on 7 May. The IAEA team based at the ZNPP site— Europe’s largest nuclear facility — was informed this week that the emergency diesel generator fuel tanks used during the loss of power have since been replenished and the site has enough fuel to enable operation of emergency diesel generators for approximately 20 days, in case of a loss of off-site power event.

    The IAEA team at South Ukraine nuclear power plant (SUNPP) reported that the plant also lost its connection to one 750 kilovolt (kV) off-site power line on 4 July, for approximately the same time as the ZNPP lost off-site power. During that time, the SUNPP continued to receive off-site power from its other 750 kV line and all of its 330 kV power lines. There was no impact on the one unit currently operating, while the other two units continue planned maintenance and refueling activities.

    The IAEA team continued to assess the availability of spare parts necessary for the continued safe operation of the plant by visiting the storage areas for the parts in the thermomechanical and electrical warehouses located within the ZNPP’s site perimeter and will be requesting the findings of recent audits by the ZNPP of spare parts. The team is also expecting to be updated on the delayed procurement of spare parts needed so that the ZNPP can commence annual maintenance of all 20 emergency diesel generators which are essential to safety in case of a loss of off-site power event.

    Also this week, the IAEA team reported that maintenance activities continue at the site, including on one safety train of unit 2 and on the main transformer of unit 4, while maintenance on one safety train of unit 5 is expected to be completed on Friday. Recently, the team also visited all main control rooms where it confirmed the number of operating staff present and recorded safety parameters for all units.

    The IAEA team reported hearing military activity on most days over the past week, including gunfire near the plant on 4 July and three explosions close to the plant on 5 July.

    The IAEA team at the Rivne nuclear power plant (NPP) reported that one reactor continues its planned maintenance and refueling activities, and one other unit was required to temporarily reduce reactor power to enable for the inspection and repair of one of the turbines. The repairs were successfully completed, and the reactor has returned to nominal full power.

    IAEA teams present at all sites — the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs and the Chornobyl NPP site — reported hearing air raid alarms on most days over the past week. At the Khmelnytskyy NPP the team was informed that drones were observed as close as five kilometres from the site, while the team at the Rivne NPP had to shelter at its hotel on two separate days and the teams at the Khmelnytskyy and Rivne NPPs sheltered at site today. The team at the Chornobyl NPP site reported hearing the sounds of a drone and anti-aircraft fire at the Chornobyl NPP site on the evening of 9 July, and were informed by the site management that a drone had reportedly flown over the open switchyard and was intercepted by the military. 

    As part of the IAEA’s comprehensive assistance programme to support nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, the Chornobyl NPP site received equipment aimed at enhancing the nuclear security measures at the site and the Khmelnytskyy and South Ukraine NPPs received equipment aimed at enhancing radiation monitoring capabilities. Additionally, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center and the hydrometeorological organizations of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine received multipurpose radiation monitoring devices.

    These deliveries were funded by the European Union, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, and brought the total number of IAEA-coordinated deliveries since the start of the armed conflict to 146.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • What is the ‘Seven Mountain Mandate’ and how is it linked to political extremism in the US?

    Source: ForeignAffairs4

    Source: The Conversation – USA (3) – By Art Jipson, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of Dayton

    People pray before Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance at a town hall hosted by Lance Wallnau on Sept. 28, 2024, in Monroeville, Pa. AP Photo/Rebecca Droke

    Vance Boelter, who allegedly shot Melissa Hortman, a Democratic Minnesota state representative, and her husband, Mark Hortman, on June 14, 2025, studied at Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas. The group is a Bible school linked to the New Apostolic Reformation, or NAR.

    The NAR is a loosely organized but influential charismatic Christian movement that shares similarities with Pentecostalism, especially in its belief that God actively communicates with believers through the Holy Spirit. Unlike traditional Pentecostalism, however, the organization emphasizes modern-day apostles and prophets as authoritative leaders tasked with transforming society and ushering in God’s kingdom on Earth. Prayer, prophecy and worship are defined not only as acts of devotion but as strategic tools for advancing believers’ vision of government and society.

    After the shooting, the Christ for the Nations Institute issued a statement “unequivocally” denouncing “any and all forms of violence and extremism.” It stated: “Our organization’s mission is to educate and equip students to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through compassion, love, prayer, service, worship, and value for human life.”

    But the shooting has drawn attention to the school and the larger Christian movement it belongs to. One of the most important aspects of NAR teachings today is what is called “the Seven Mountain Mandate.”

    The Seven Mountain Mandate calls on Christians to gain influence, or “take dominion,” over seven key areas of culture: religion, family, education, government, media, business and the arts.

    With over three decades of experience studying extremism, I offer a brief overview of the history and core beliefs of the Seven Mountain Mandate.

    ‘Dominion of Christians’

    The Seven Mountain concept was originally proposed in 1975 by evangelical leader Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ. Now known as “Cru,” the Campus Crusade for Christ was founded as a global ministry in 1951 to promote Christian evangelism, especially on college campuses.

    United by a shared vision to influence society through Christian values, Bright partnered with Loren Cunningham, the founder of Youth With A Mission, a major international missionary training and outreach organization, in the 1970s.

    The Seven Mountain Mandate was popularized by theologian Francis Schaeffer, who linked it to a larger critique of secularism and liberal culture. Over time, it evolved.

    C. Peter Wagner, a former seminary professor who helped organize and name the New Apostolic Reformation, is often regarded as the theological architect of the group. He developed it into a call for dominion. In his 2008 book “Dominion! How Kingdom Action Can Change the World,” he urged Christians to take authoritative control of cultural institutions.

    For Wagner, “dominion theology” – the idea that Christians should have control over all aspects of society – was a call to spiritual warfare, so that God’s kingdom would be “manifested here on earth as it is in heaven.”

    A gray-haired man wearing glasses and a blue shirt.
    Bill Johnson.
    Doctorg via Wikimedia Commons

    Since 1996, Bill Johnson, a senior leader of Bethel Church, and Johnny Enlow, a self-described prophet and Seven Mountain advocate, among others, have taken the original idea of the Seven Mountain Mandate and reshaped it into a more aggressive, political and spiritually militant approach. Spiritual militancy reflects an aggressive, us-vs.-them mindset that blurs the line between faith and authoritarianism, promoting dominion over society in the name of spiritual warfare.

    Their version doesn’t just aim to influence culture; it frames the effort as a spiritual battle to reclaim and reshape the nation according to their vision of God’s will.

    Lance Wallnau, another Christian evangelical preacher, televangelist, speaker and author, has promoted dominion theology since the early 2000s. During the 2020 U.S. presidential election, Wallnau, along with several prominent NAR figures, described Donald Trump as anointed by God to reclaim the “mountain” of government from demonic control.

    In their book “Invading Babylon: The 7 Mountain Mandate,” Wallnau and Johnson explicitly call for Christian leadership as the only antidote to perceived moral decay and spiritual darkness.

    The beliefs

    Sometimes referred to as Seven Mountains of Influence or Seven Mountains of Culture, the seven mountains are not neutral domains but seen as battlegrounds between divine truth and demonic deception.

    Adherents believe that Christians are called to reclaim these areas through influence, leadership and even, if necessary, the use of force and to confront demonic political forces, as religion scholar Matthew Taylor demonstrates in his book “The Violent Take It By Force.”

    Diverse perspectives and interpretations surround the rhetoric and actions associated with the New Apostolic Reformation. Some analysts have pointed out how the NAR is training its followers for an active confrontation. Other commentators have said that the rhetoric calling for physical violence is anti-biblical and should be denounced.

    NAR-aligned leaders have framed electoral contests as struggles between “godly” candidates and those under the sway of “satanic” influence.

    Similarly, NAR prophet Cindy Jacobs has repeatedly emphasized the need for “spiritual warfare” in schools to combat what she characterizes as “demonic ideologies” such as sex education, LGBTQ+ inclusion or discussions of systemic racism.

    In the NAR worldview, cultural change is not merely political or social but considered a supernatural mission; opponents are not simply wrong but possibly under the sway of demonic influence. Elections become spiritual battles.

    This belief system views pluralism as weakness, compromise as betrayal, and coexistence as capitulation. Frederick Clarkson, a senior research analyst at Political Research Associates, a progressive think tank based in Somerville, Massachusetts, defines the Seven Mountain Mandate as “the theocratic idea that Christians are called by God to exercise dominion over every aspect of society by taking control of political and cultural institutions.”

    The call to “take back” the culture is not metaphorical but literal, and believers are encouraged to see themselves as soldiers in a holy war to dominate society. Some critics argue that NAR’s call to “take back” culture is about literal domination, but this interpretation is contested.

    Many within the movement see the language of warfare as spiritually focused on prayer, evangelism and influencing hearts and minds. Still, the line between metaphor and mandate can blur, especially when rhetoric about “dominion” intersects with political and cultural action. That tension is part of an ongoing debate both within and outside the movement.

    Networks that spread the beliefs

    This belief system is no longer confined to the margins. It is spread widely through evangelical churches, podcasts, YouTube videos and political networks.

    It’s hard to know exactly how many churches are part of the New Apostolic Reformation, but estimates suggest that about 3 million people in the U.S. attend churches that openly follow NAR leaders.

    At the same time, the Seven Mountain Mandate doesn’t depend on centralized leadership or formal institutions. It spreads organically through social networks, social media – notably podcasts and livestreams – and revivalist meetings and workshops.

    André Gagné, a theologian and author of “American Evangelicals for Trump: Dominion, Spiritual Warfare, and the End Times,” writes about the ways in which the mandate spreads by empowering local leaders and believers. Individuals are authorized – often through teachings on spiritual warfare, prophetic gifting, and apostolic leadership – to see themselves as agents of divine transformation in society, called to reclaim the “mountains,” such as government, media and education, for God’s kingdom.

    This approach, Gagné explains, allows different communities to adapt the action mandate to their unique cultural, political and social contexts. It encourages individuals to see themselves as spiritual warriors and leaders in their domains – whether in business, education, government, media or the arts.

    Small groups or even individuals can start movements or initiatives without waiting for top-down directives. The only recognized authorities are the apostles and prophets running the church or church network the believers attend.

    The framing of the Seven Mountain Mandate as a divinely inspired mission, combined with the movement’s emphasis on direct spiritual experiences and a specific interpretation of scripture, can create an environment where questioning the mandate is perceived as challenging God’s authority.

    Slippery slope

    These beliefs have increasingly fused with nationalist rhetoric and conspiracy theories.

    A white flag bearing the words 'An Appeal to Heaven,' featuring a green pine tree, with the American flag displayed beneath it.
    The ‘Appeal to Heaven’ flags symbolize the belief that people have the right to appeal directly to God’s authority when they think the government has failed.
    Paul Becker/Becker1999 via Flickr, CC BY

    A powerful example of NAR political rhetoric in action is the rise and influence of the “Appeal to Heaven” flags. For those in the New Apostolic Reformation, these flags symbolize the belief that when all earthly authority fails, people have the right to appeal directly to God’s authority to justify resistance.

    This was evident during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, when these flags were prominently displayed.

    To be clear, its leaders are not calling for violence but rather for direct political engagement and protest. For some believers, however, the calls for “spiritual warfare” may become a slippery slope into justification for violence, as in the case of the alleged Minnesota shooter.

    Understanding the Seven Mountain Mandate is essential for grasping the dynamics of contemporary efforts to align government and culture with a particular vision of Christian authority and influence.

    The Conversation

    Art Jipson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What is the ‘Seven Mountain Mandate’ and how is it linked to political extremism in the US? – https://theconversation.com/what-is-the-seven-mountain-mandate-and-how-is-it-linked-to-political-extremism-in-the-us-260034

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Comments on Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 10(a) Program Implementation

    Source: Independent Petroleum Association of America

    Headline: Comments on Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 10(a) Program Implementation

    Jul 9, 2025 Comments on Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 10(a) Program Implementation

    The American Petroleum Institute (“API”), the American Exploration and Production Council (“AXPC”), the Independent Petroleum Association of America (“IPAA”), GPA Midstream Association, Marcellus Shale Coalition, the North Dakota Petroleum Council (“NDPC”), the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma, the Texas Oil and Gas Association (“TXOGA”), and Utah Petroleum Alliance (“UPA”) (collectively, the “Associations”) appreciates the opportunity to provide comments in response to the Fish and Wildlife Service’s (“FWS” or “the Service”) request for information (“RFI”) issued on June 9, 2025. This RFI sought feedback on improvements to the development and implementation of survival permits associated with Conservation Benefit Agreements (CBAs) and Incidental Take Permits (ITPs) associated with Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) under Section 10(a) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We appreciate the Trump Administration’s desire to achieve a meaningful reduction in regulatory burdens while continuing to meet statutory obligations, advance American energy independence, and ensure the responsible stewardship of the nation’s public lands and resources. …

    Voluntary conservation agreements such as HCPs and CBAs are helpful mechanisms to minimize impacts to species and habitat and contribute to overall species conservation goals, while avoiding unwarranted access restrictions that could obstruct national energy security objectives. A significant value of these plans lies in their ability to streamline or even proactively preempt the often-lengthy Incidental Take Permit process, a benefit that works both in favor of industry and the Service. Though not applicable in all situations and for all species, the Associations’ members already successfully leverage various CBAs and HCPs for species such as the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard, the Lesser Prairie Chicken, the Texas Hornshell Mussel, and the Monarch Butterfly. Critical learnings from these initiatives can be applied to future conservation plans, as per the suggestions delivered below. …

    Continue Reading

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: What is the ‘Seven Mountain Mandate’ and how is it linked to political extremism in the US?

    Source: The Conversation – USA (3) – By Art Jipson, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of Dayton

    People pray before Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance at a town hall hosted by Lance Wallnau on Sept. 28, 2024, in Monroeville, Pa. AP Photo/Rebecca Droke

    Vance Boelter, who allegedly shot Melissa Hortman, a Democratic Minnesota state representative, and her husband, Mark Hortman, on June 14, 2025, studied at Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas. The group is a Bible school linked to the New Apostolic Reformation, or NAR.

    The NAR is a loosely organized but influential charismatic Christian movement that shares similarities with Pentecostalism, especially in its belief that God actively communicates with believers through the Holy Spirit. Unlike traditional Pentecostalism, however, the organization emphasizes modern-day apostles and prophets as authoritative leaders tasked with transforming society and ushering in God’s kingdom on Earth. Prayer, prophecy and worship are defined not only as acts of devotion but as strategic tools for advancing believers’ vision of government and society.

    After the shooting, the Christ for the Nations Institute issued a statement “unequivocally” denouncing “any and all forms of violence and extremism.” It stated: “Our organization’s mission is to educate and equip students to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through compassion, love, prayer, service, worship, and value for human life.”

    But the shooting has drawn attention to the school and the larger Christian movement it belongs to. One of the most important aspects of NAR teachings today is what is called “the Seven Mountain Mandate.”

    The Seven Mountain Mandate calls on Christians to gain influence, or “take dominion,” over seven key areas of culture: religion, family, education, government, media, business and the arts.

    With over three decades of experience studying extremism, I offer a brief overview of the history and core beliefs of the Seven Mountain Mandate.

    ‘Dominion of Christians’

    The Seven Mountain concept was originally proposed in 1975 by evangelical leader Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ. Now known as “Cru,” the Campus Crusade for Christ was founded as a global ministry in 1951 to promote Christian evangelism, especially on college campuses.

    United by a shared vision to influence society through Christian values, Bright partnered with Loren Cunningham, the founder of Youth With A Mission, a major international missionary training and outreach organization, in the 1970s.

    The Seven Mountain Mandate was popularized by theologian Francis Schaeffer, who linked it to a larger critique of secularism and liberal culture. Over time, it evolved.

    C. Peter Wagner, a former seminary professor who helped organize and name the New Apostolic Reformation, is often regarded as the theological architect of the group. He developed it into a call for dominion. In his 2008 book “Dominion! How Kingdom Action Can Change the World,” he urged Christians to take authoritative control of cultural institutions.

    For Wagner, “dominion theology” – the idea that Christians should have control over all aspects of society – was a call to spiritual warfare, so that God’s kingdom would be “manifested here on earth as it is in heaven.”

    Bill Johnson.
    Doctorg via Wikimedia Commons

    Since 1996, Bill Johnson, a senior leader of Bethel Church, and Johnny Enlow, a self-described prophet and Seven Mountain advocate, among others, have taken the original idea of the Seven Mountain Mandate and reshaped it into a more aggressive, political and spiritually militant approach. Spiritual militancy reflects an aggressive, us-vs.-them mindset that blurs the line between faith and authoritarianism, promoting dominion over society in the name of spiritual warfare.

    Their version doesn’t just aim to influence culture; it frames the effort as a spiritual battle to reclaim and reshape the nation according to their vision of God’s will.

    Lance Wallnau, another Christian evangelical preacher, televangelist, speaker and author, has promoted dominion theology since the early 2000s. During the 2020 U.S. presidential election, Wallnau, along with several prominent NAR figures, described Donald Trump as anointed by God to reclaim the “mountain” of government from demonic control.

    In their book “Invading Babylon: The 7 Mountain Mandate,” Wallnau and Johnson explicitly call for Christian leadership as the only antidote to perceived moral decay and spiritual darkness.

    The beliefs

    Sometimes referred to as Seven Mountains of Influence or Seven Mountains of Culture, the seven mountains are not neutral domains but seen as battlegrounds between divine truth and demonic deception.

    Adherents believe that Christians are called to reclaim these areas through influence, leadership and even, if necessary, the use of force and to confront demonic political forces, as religion scholar Matthew Taylor demonstrates in his book “The Violent Take It By Force.”

    Diverse perspectives and interpretations surround the rhetoric and actions associated with the New Apostolic Reformation. Some analysts have pointed out how the NAR is training its followers for an active confrontation. Other commentators have said that the rhetoric calling for physical violence is anti-biblical and should be denounced.

    NAR-aligned leaders have framed electoral contests as struggles between “godly” candidates and those under the sway of “satanic” influence.

    Similarly, NAR prophet Cindy Jacobs has repeatedly emphasized the need for “spiritual warfare” in schools to combat what she characterizes as “demonic ideologies” such as sex education, LGBTQ+ inclusion or discussions of systemic racism.

    In the NAR worldview, cultural change is not merely political or social but considered a supernatural mission; opponents are not simply wrong but possibly under the sway of demonic influence. Elections become spiritual battles.

    This belief system views pluralism as weakness, compromise as betrayal, and coexistence as capitulation. Frederick Clarkson, a senior research analyst at Political Research Associates, a progressive think tank based in Somerville, Massachusetts, defines the Seven Mountain Mandate as “the theocratic idea that Christians are called by God to exercise dominion over every aspect of society by taking control of political and cultural institutions.”

    The call to “take back” the culture is not metaphorical but literal, and believers are encouraged to see themselves as soldiers in a holy war to dominate society. Some critics argue that NAR’s call to “take back” culture is about literal domination, but this interpretation is contested.

    Many within the movement see the language of warfare as spiritually focused on prayer, evangelism and influencing hearts and minds. Still, the line between metaphor and mandate can blur, especially when rhetoric about “dominion” intersects with political and cultural action. That tension is part of an ongoing debate both within and outside the movement.

    Networks that spread the beliefs

    This belief system is no longer confined to the margins. It is spread widely through evangelical churches, podcasts, YouTube videos and political networks.

    It’s hard to know exactly how many churches are part of the New Apostolic Reformation, but estimates suggest that about 3 million people in the U.S. attend churches that openly follow NAR leaders.

    At the same time, the Seven Mountain Mandate doesn’t depend on centralized leadership or formal institutions. It spreads organically through social networks, social media – notably podcasts and livestreams – and revivalist meetings and workshops.

    André Gagné, a theologian and author of “American Evangelicals for Trump: Dominion, Spiritual Warfare, and the End Times,” writes about the ways in which the mandate spreads by empowering local leaders and believers. Individuals are authorized – often through teachings on spiritual warfare, prophetic gifting, and apostolic leadership – to see themselves as agents of divine transformation in society, called to reclaim the “mountains,” such as government, media and education, for God’s kingdom.

    This approach, Gagné explains, allows different communities to adapt the action mandate to their unique cultural, political and social contexts. It encourages individuals to see themselves as spiritual warriors and leaders in their domains – whether in business, education, government, media or the arts.

    Small groups or even individuals can start movements or initiatives without waiting for top-down directives. The only recognized authorities are the apostles and prophets running the church or church network the believers attend.

    The framing of the Seven Mountain Mandate as a divinely inspired mission, combined with the movement’s emphasis on direct spiritual experiences and a specific interpretation of scripture, can create an environment where questioning the mandate is perceived as challenging God’s authority.

    Slippery slope

    These beliefs have increasingly fused with nationalist rhetoric and conspiracy theories.

    The ‘Appeal to Heaven’ flags symbolize the belief that people have the right to appeal directly to God’s authority when they think the government has failed.
    Paul Becker/Becker1999 via Flickr, CC BY

    A powerful example of NAR political rhetoric in action is the rise and influence of the “Appeal to Heaven” flags. For those in the New Apostolic Reformation, these flags symbolize the belief that when all earthly authority fails, people have the right to appeal directly to God’s authority to justify resistance.

    This was evident during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, when these flags were prominently displayed.

    To be clear, its leaders are not calling for violence but rather for direct political engagement and protest. For some believers, however, the calls for “spiritual warfare” may become a slippery slope into justification for violence, as in the case of the alleged Minnesota shooter.

    Understanding the Seven Mountain Mandate is essential for grasping the dynamics of contemporary efforts to align government and culture with a particular vision of Christian authority and influence.

    Art Jipson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What is the ‘Seven Mountain Mandate’ and how is it linked to political extremism in the US? – https://theconversation.com/what-is-the-seven-mountain-mandate-and-how-is-it-linked-to-political-extremism-in-the-us-260034

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Nigeria: Violence and widespread displacement leave Benue facing a humanitarian disaster

    Source: Amnesty International –

    • At least 510,182 internally displaced people (IDPs) across Benue state
    • Dire conditions in IDP camps
    • Children and pregnant women amongst most vulnerable

    The Nigerian authorities must take urgent steps to avert a humanitarian catastrophe in the central state of Benue where attacks by gunmen have displaced at least 500,000 people, many of whom are languishing in squalid camps without access to sufficient water, poor sanitation, food and healthcare, Amnesty International said today.

    In the most recent attack on 14 June, gunmen raided the town of Yelewata, killing more than 100 people and forcing over 3,941 more to flee their homes. The smell of decomposing bodies hung in the air during a visit to the affected community by Amnesty International in the aftermath of the attacks. Signs of the recent violence were unmistakable with bullet shells littering the ground, and mass graves that had been newly dug to bury the dead.

    Survivors were seen carrying bags of grain, bundles of firewood and other household items as they sought safety and shelter in camps for internally displaced persons (IDP). According to interviews with IDPs in Gwer West, Agatu, Ukum, Kwande, Logo, Guma and Makurdi IDP camps, as well as a makeshift IDP camp at Makurdi Modern Market, communities who come under attack are often left to fend for themselves with security forces only arriving long after the gunmen had left.

    “The Nigerian authorities have failed the people of Benue state again and again. Rampant attacks by gunmen have deprived thousands of people of their rights to life, physical integrity, liberty, freedom of movement and access to livelihoods. Survivors of these harrowing attacks face the fresh torment of being displaced in overcrowded, unhygienic camps where disease runs rampant and essentials such as  food and clean water are scarce,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.

    “The situation risks creating a humanitarian disaster, which the authorities must urgently address by ensuring that people’s essential needs are met by providing desperately needed aid.”

    Besides interviews with IDPs, Amnesty International also spoke to camps officials, medical workers and non-governmental organizations in the affected areas. It found that communities across Benue state, including Gwer West, Gwer-East, Agatu, Apa, Ukum, Kwande, Logo,and Guma, continue to face a brutal pattern of violence.

    This is typically unleashed at night, although daytime attacks also occur, with gunmen systematically overrunning villages, using firearms to carry out indiscriminate or targeted killings from a distance. This is accompanied by brutal close-range violence with machetes and knives used to inflict grievous injuries, including hand amputations.

    The Nigerian authorities have failed the people of Benue state again and again.

    Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria

    Misery of the IDP camps

    As of 31 December 2024, an estimated 500,182 people had fled to IDPs camps in Benue state to escape years of attacks by gunmen. More than 10,000 additional people have been displaced since the start of 2025 following attacks on communities in Gwer West, Agatu, Ukum (Gbagir), Kwande (Anwase), Logo, and Guma (Yelewata, Agan, and Gbajimba), among others.

    Amnesty International’s visits to IDP camps reveal wholly inadequate shelter, exposing IDPs to harsh weather, overcrowding, and heightened risks of disease, as well as gender-based violence, including rape and domestic violence.

    Access to healthcare is also a major challenge in the IDP camps with a lack of treatment for the most common diseases and ailments, such as malaria, typhoid, and stomach ulcers. According to a camp official, births occur almost daily in the IDP camps, with many pregnant women requiring medical attention but also contracting infections because of inadequate hygiene facilities.

    An IDP told Amnesty International: “If we don’t get drugs, we just sit and watch the sick person helplessly.”

    Many children are unable to exercise their right to an education in the camps.

    “Our children no longer go to school and there are no arrangements by the authorities to teach children in the IDP camp. The government should bring an end to insecurity in our local government area and Benue state. Before that, provide us with food and proper shelter at the IDP camps,” an IDP told Amnesty International.

    A camp official told Amnesty International that a makeshift school built in one of the camps had been shut down for over three years because camp authorities could not continue paying ad-hoc teachers their stipends. 

    There are hundreds of minors who fled their homes due to attacks and now live without parental care. The children were separated from their families while fleeing attacks on their villages and communities. The authorities have been unable to provide these vulnerable children with a safe place to live and essential services. Two female IDPs told Amnesty International:

    The authorities’ persistent failure to hold suspected perpetrators to account is fueling a cycle of impunity that is making everyone feel unsafe. Authorities must now end the growing culture of impunity for these attacks.

    Isa Sanusi

    “When we arrived, they [my children] left. I do not know where they have gone. I can’t speak with them; I don’t have a phone….I have 8 children and because we do not have enough space here in the IDP camp, many of them have left me and I do not know where they are.”

    Amnesty International is calling on the Nigerian authorities to take immediate steps to provide sufficient and accessible humanitarian support to the survivors of these attacks. Authorities must take steps to domesticate and effectively implement the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons within the country’s legal system.

    “The authorities’ persistent failure to hold suspected perpetrators to account is fueling a cycle of impunity that is making everyone feel unsafe. Authorities must now end the growing culture of impunity for these attacks.”

    “We call on the authorities to ensure that all people displaced because of the attacks in Benue state are provided with adequate relief, including protection, shelter, food, clean water, sanitation and healthcare. Authorities must ensure that all people who have suffered losses from the crisis are also provided with adequate compensation,” said Isa Sanusi.

    Background

    Amnesty International Nigeria has been monitoring the escalating bandit attacks and clashes between herders and farmers in Benue state since 2016. In 2020, the organization investigated the authorities’ failure to protect rural communities from attacks, and in 2025, it investigated the mounting death toll and looming humanitarian crisis amid unchecked attacks by armed groups.

    Nigeria is state party to a number of treaties that guarantee the human rights of everybody in the country regardless of the circumstances. This includes the UN International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights which requires Nigerian authorities to ensure equal access to amongst others the rights to housing, health, food, water, sanitation and education.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: DWP’s ‘unhealthy obsession’ with AI discriminates against people with disabilities

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Report finds DWPs use of AI traps disabled people, those in poverty and the digitally excluded in ‘bureaucratic limbo’ 

    The report highlights how intrusive data practices have led to disproportionate monitoring of disadvantaged communities  

    ‘Have some form of sort of compassion, make the forms and things easier’ – Claimant 

    ‘While people struggle to make ends meet and put food on the table due to inadequate social security, the DWP is still spending millions of pounds on costly, experimental systems designed to profile and surveil claimants’ – Imogen-Richmond Bishop 

    People with disabilities, limited digital skills, digital illiteracy, serious health concerns, or living in poverty are being pushed into bureaucratic limbo and subjected to immense stress caused by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) unchecked roll-out of technologies, Amnesty International said today in a new report. 

    The 67-page report, “Too Much Technology, Not Enough Empathy”, exposes how the DWP’s constant cycle of testing, deploying, and withdrawing costly artificial intelligence (AI) and digital systems for Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has created an inaccessible and exclusionary social security system – disproportionately harming the most marginalised.  

    The tech-driven systems for applications and management are causing relentless dehumanisation and psychological distress for people already struggling to meet their basic needs. These systems are accompanied by intrusive data collection, resulting in excessive surveillance and profiling of disadvantaged groups – contributing to the emergence of an all-seeing state.  

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for the UK to become an ‘AI superpower,’ with plans to accelerate AI across the public sector in a bid to boost economic growth.   

    Imogen-Richmond Bishop, Amnesty International Researcher on Technology, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, said: 

    “The DWP’s mission to reduce ‘costs’ is an unhealthy obsession and overreliance on flawed technology. But urgent questions remain: Is the tech rollout truly cost-effective – or simply cutting corners at the expense of vulnerable people? 

    “With the UK’s National Audit Office expressing serious doubts about these technologies, it’s deeply concerning that while people struggle to make ends meet and put food on the table due to inadequate  social security, the DWP is still spending millions of pounds on costly, experimental systems designed to profile and surveil claimants,”. 

    ‘Dehumanising and discriminatory’ 

    The report follows Amnesty’s earlier publication this year, ‘Social Insecurity’, which found the UK’s social security system to be “consciously cruel”, with widespread dehumanisation and discrimination. It revealed significant barriers to access:   

    Digital exclusion is not fixed. People may experience it to varying degrees, and it can fluctuate based on factors such as living conditions, education, health, and income. 

    Furthermore, limited access to digital technologies, including the internet or internet connected devices, and their affordability are key factors contributing to digital exclusion caused by the DWP’s systems. Language barriers and excessively long wait times on telephone services offered for UC claimants add a strain, often resulting in significant psychological stress. 

    For one of the claimants interviewed by Amnesty, literacy level, gender, and socio-economic status all represented barriers to her being able to access services online. 

    One claimant told Amnesty: “Have some form of sort of compassion, make the forms and things easier. I mean, I’m quite illiterate. I mean, a lot of women are, are men of my age, can’t use them […] So they’re stuffed. They send me. Letters on my phone. I can’t open them. So I ring up. I can’t open it. I haven’t got an iPad. I can’t afford an iPad.” 

    Imogen Richmond-Bishop added: 

    “The DWP’s experimentation with tech systems has reduced people to data points, where the success of a claim often depends more on fitting into rigid digital categories than actual eligibility.  

    “Technology in this instance has oversimplified people’s complex realities by creating narrow and opaque processing that demeans people’s needs especially when they are unable to get the support from a human case worker that they need. 

    “The DWP’s data collection practices are alarmingly invasive and deeply opaque. Requiring applicants to surrender vast amounts of sensitive personal data – including health, disability, housing, marital status, and detailed financial records like bank statements – raises serious red flags. This excessive data harvesting calls into question the proportionality, legality, and fairness of how information is collected, processed and potentially exploited.”   

    The UK must ensure AI doesn’t contribute to human rights violations and Amnesty is calling for: 

    The report interviewed 783 people between October 2024 to January 2025. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Human Rights Committee Holds Emergency Meeting with States Parties as the United Nations’ Financial Crisis Threatens its Survival

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Rights Committee today held an emergency meeting with States parties to discuss the financial challenges of the United Nations and the Committee’s future.

    Committee Chairperson Changrok Soh, in opening remarks, said the Committee’s ability to fulfil its mandate was under serious threat. Austerity measures had been imposed on it that jeopardised not just its current work, but the very future of the Committee itself.

    The Committee’s most pressing concern was the cancellation of its third session this year, Mr. Soh said. This was the first time in its 50-year history that such a cancellation had occurred. Losing a session meant serious delays in reviewing State party reports and in deciding on individual complaints of Covenant violations. Many victims had already waited years for justice. Now, they would wait even longer, he said.

    Mr. Soh appealed to States parties to help the Committee find a solution. The Committee needed States’ political will, financial commitment, and concrete support — not only to help it find a way to hold its third session this year, but also to strengthen the system for the future.

    In the ensuing discussion, States parties expressed support for the Committee and the treaty body system, and concern regarding the financial crisis and the cancellation of the third session. They called on the Committee to come up with new, sustainable, cost-effective solutions to address the structural issues underpinning the situation, while maintaining its work and integrity.

    Concluding the meeting, Mr. Soh said that treaty bodies were not receiving enough funding for their core work. They were doing their best in terms of rationalisation and increasing efficiency, but as allocated resources declined, support for the treaty bodies’ work diminished, creating a vicious cycle.

    To address this situation, special measures were needed, such as utilising voluntary contributions transparently, he said. Without a properly functioning treaty body system, human rights protections would weaken around the world. Decisive and urgent action was needed to protect the treaty body system and human rights around the world, he concluded.

    Speaking in the meeting were representatives of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as well as Japan, Spain, Serbia, Egypt, Croatia, Colombia, Russian Federation, Costa Rica, Islamic Republic of Iran and France.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-fourth session is being held from 23 June to 17 July 2025. All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage . Meeting summary releases can be found here . The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 3 p.m. on Tuesday 15 July to hear the progress report of the Special Rapporteur on follow-up to the Committee’s concluding observations.

    Opening Statements by Committee Experts

    CHANGROK SOH, Committee Chair, said the Committee had convened the emergency meeting to discuss a single, urgent issue: “The financial challenges of the United Nations and the future of the Human Rights Committee.” The Committee came before States today with a profound sense of urgency.

    All members of the Human Rights Committee were deeply honoured to take enormous responsibility for monitoring the implementation of the Covenant. They took this duty very seriously. But today, its ability to fulfil this mandate was under serious threat. The austerity measures imposed on the Committee jeopardised not just its current work, but the very future of the Committee itself.

    These were truly unprecedented times — for the Committee and for the entire treaty body system. The Committee’s most pressing concern was the cancellation of its third session this year, scheduled for October and November, as announced by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. This was the first time in the Committee’s 50-year history that such a cancellation had occurred. 

    The cancellation put the Committee in a very difficult position. Its rules of procedure required it to meet three times a year. This was a fundamental obligation under the Committee’s mandate and indispensable to the effectiveness of its work. If it lost a session, nearly eight months would pass without a single meeting in Geneva. This meant serious delays in reviewing State party reports and in deciding on individual complaints of Covenant violations. Many victims had already waited years for justice. Now, they would wait even longer. Every delay weakened the Committee’s recommendations, diminished their impact, and undermined their ability to prevent further violations.

    The Committee recognised that the United Nations’ financial crisis was serious, and that the Secretariat was doing its best under the current constraints. But it was clear that the rules and structures of the system were too rigid to cope with situations like this. For example, in early June, during the Treaty Body Chairs’ meeting, several Chairs explored the possibility of mobilising emergency funding to hold autumn sessions. However, they were told that this was not possible, as treaty bodies were required to rely exclusively on the regular budget to carry out their mandated activities. This rule was intended to safeguard the Committee’s independence. But it made little sense if, in practice, it prevented it from functioning at all when the regular budget fell short. The Covenant clearly obliged the Secretary-General to ensure that the Committee could carry out its work. If the current approach blocked the fulfilment of that obligation, then it needed to change.

    The Committee therefore appealed to States parties to help it find a solution. Open and frank communication with the States parties was crucial because, ultimately, it was in States’ interest to ensure that the treaty bodies could continue their vital work, even in difficult times. The Committee needed States’ political will, financial commitment, and concrete support — not only to help it find a way to hold its third session this year, but also to strengthen the system for the future. 

    The Committee monitored the fundamental rights of individuals in 174 States parties — as part of the approximately 1,400 treaty obligations regularly reviewed by the treaty bodies. This was a remarkable early warning and accountability system — one that States parties created. The Committee urged States to ensure that this system could continue to function effectively. If not, what alternative was available?

    This should not be treated as a one-time problem. If this unprecedented cancellation were allowed to be “normalised”, it would set a dangerous precedent. Each time the United Nations faced a funding shortfall, the credibility and effectiveness of the treaty body system, a core pillar of the United Nations’ human rights architecture, would erode further.

    There was growing global pushback against human rights, especially the very rights the Committee was mandated to protect. This was not the moment to weaken United Nations human rights mechanisms. On the contrary, the world needed this remarkable early warning and accountability system now more than ever. 

    The Committee called on States to do three things. First, support the Committee — even at this late stage — in finding a solution to hold its third session this year, and commit to holding all three regular sessions in 2026. Second, allow voluntary contributions from States to be used transparently and responsibly to support the Committee’s work, while fully preserving the independence and impartiality of the treaty bodies. Third, help the Committee function effectively by fulfilling reporting obligations, engaging with the Committee in dialogue, and supporting its work financially and politically, both now and in the long term.

    Statements and Questions by States Parties 

    In the ensuing dialogue, many States expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts of the Committee and the treaty bodies and their firm commitment to the treaty bodies, which were a cornerstone of the international human rights system. The Committee, they said, made significant contributions to upholding civil and political rights around the world.

    Several speakers expressed deep concern about the financial crisis, which was affecting the mandates of all treaty bodies, the Human Rights Council and Special Procedures, among other mechanisms in the United Nations system. This situation had serious implications for these bodies’ important work.

    One speaker said that their country had increased contributions to the treaty body system and was paying its dues on time, and had also increased unearmarked financial contributions to the Office of the High Commissioner. The speaker said that the country would work to strengthen the capacity of the Secretariat through its contributions.

    Some speakers said treaty bodies needed to work to harmonise their working methods. Cooperation between treaty bodies could lead to solutions to backlogs in individual communications. The Committee had a backlog of over 1,000 individual communications. One speaker asked if the Committee had assessed additional measures to address its backlog.

    Many speakers expressed dismay that the Committee’s third session for the year was to be cancelled, and called for an urgent, mitigating solution to be found to hold the Committee’s third session in November. Without this session, the Committee’s backlog of cases would only increase. Was this issue related to the ordinary budget or to liquidity? One speaker suggested using new technologies and virtual meetings to hold the third session. The Committee needed to come up with new, sustainable, cost-effective solutions to address the structural issues underpinning the situation, while maintaining its work and integrity. 

    Some speakers commended the UN80 initiative and the United Nations’ efforts to address evolving global challenges. However, some speakers said that austerity measures implemented through the UN80 initiative should not affect the work of the treaty bodies and the international human rights system.

    One speaker said it was worth exploring the Chair’s proposal regarding the use of voluntary contributions to facilitate the Committee’s third session, provided that there were no legal barriers to this solution and that the independence and impartiality of the Committee were not affected. The speaker commended the Committee’s efforts to find a solution.

    Another speaker said that their country had attempted to fund one of the treaty bodies’ mandates directly but had been told that funding could only come from the regular budget. If a voluntary funding scheme for the Committee was established, it needed to be established for all the treaty bodies and other mechanisms receiving funds from the regular budget. The speaker said that their country would support solutions proposed by States, while working within the norms of the United Nations’ system.

    A speaker said that one State had traditionally contributed significantly to the funding of the human rights system; the reasons for its sudden cessation of funding needed to be examined. States were the owners of the treaty body system.

    One speaker said multilingualism needed to be an essential value of the treaty bodies; it should not be sacrificed to achieve budgetary austerity.

    Responses by Committee Experts and Others

    A Committee Expert said States were authors of the Covenant and the Optional Protocol on individual communications. The harmonisation of working methods related to individual communications began around three years ago, both formally and informally. There was no resistance from the Committee in this regard. The Human Rights Committee received the largest number of individual communications, given the broad scope of the Covenant. It was proud of its record in dealing with these communications. Delays in issuing decisions on communications affected the relevance and legitimacy of the decisions that the Committee adopted. The Committee had had only three days this session to assess individual communications, while it had had a full week previously.

    The Secretariat had exerted efforts to maintain its staff in the financial crisis. The Committee had a human resources issue; there was a lack of staff to assess individual complaints, prepare draft decisions, and assess follow-up to the Committee’s decisions. The issue of resources needed to be addressed; simply freeing up time in sessions to assess individual communications would not fix the backlog.

    Digitisation was a long-standing structural issue for the Committee. The system that the Committee worked with was not sufficiently digitised.

    Another Committee Expert said the Committee welcomed States’ support and was encouraged by their presence in the dialogue. The Committee received over half of all the individual communications received by the treaty body system. If the Secretariat could not prepare individual cases for assessment, the Committee could not assess them. Without sufficient pre-sessional working time, the Committee’s backlog would only increase. Diplomats in Geneva understood the complexities of the treaty body system. They needed to mobilise with colleagues in New York to support treaty bodies’ efficiency.

    This was the first time that the Committee had organised a special, focused meeting, and it had been very successful. It would be helpful to have annual meetings with States, as well as emergency meetings to discuss urgent issues.

    One Committee Expert proposed that the Committee use digital technologies to hold the third session remotely. A decision on this issue needed to be taken rapidly. However, this was not a solution to the structural problems the Committee faced. The Committee needed to take slow steps forward in this situation.

    Another Committee Expert said that the young generation was questioning the capacity of the human rights system to protect human rights, in the context of the recent increase in violations of human rights and international humanitarian law around the world. The Committee was witnessing the emergence of new challenges, including in relation to climate change and artificial intelligence. It was considering how to address these challenges while preserving human rights. The Committee’s objective was not to level accusations at States; it was to accompany them on their journey toward achieving the best implementation of their commitments. Member States needed to support the Committee now, in the same manner as they had supported it for decades.

    A Committee Expert thanked States parties for their support to the international human rights system. States had created the Committee, recognising the need to monitor and protect civil and political rights. The Committee had an enormous workload and required appropriate financial resources, so that the Secretariat could hire necessary human resources to facilitate its work. The Expert called on States to take initiatives to address the crisis. Solutions needed to address the overall structural crisis over the long term.

    CHANGROK SOH, Committee Chair, said the Committee would present a proposal to States regarding the use of voluntary contributions for holding the third session, but only States could approve this. Mr. Soh expressed support for the idea of holding annual meetings with States parties.

    The Committee met online during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that these meetings were not effective for various reasons, including time difference and limitations on dialogue and interpretation. The treaty body Chairs had discussed this issue, but had decided that online meetings were not an effective option. However, the Committee would continue to use digital technology, including artificial intelligence, to increase the efficiency of its work.

    WAN-HEA LEE, Chief, Civil, Political, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Section, Human Rights Council and Treaty Mechanisms Division, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights , said that, in the past, the Office of the High Commissioner had reduced the working time of pre-sessional working groups to manage the financial crisis. The working group for the third session had been cancelled.

    In the past, the treaty bodies had been facing a liquidity crisis. Dues were being paid, but did not reach the treaty bodies in a timely manner. However, it was not an issue of liquidity anymore. The budget of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for this year had been cut, and the situation had moved from a liquidity to a financial crisis. The financial outlook for next year was also not bright.

    DINA ROSSBACHER, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights , said that there was a structural problem in terms of the processing of decisions related to individual communications. The formula adopted by Member States regarding the processing of individual communications had not been fully adopted and this had been exacerbated by the financial crisis. The Committee had taken several steps to address the situation, including efforts to align working methods and increase the efficiency of processing individual communications. Last year, the Committee adopted a record number of decisions on communications – over 450. However, the large backlog remained, and the situation remained urgent.

    Statements and Questions by States Parties

    States expressed support for the work of the Committee, the treaty bodies and the human rights system. It was the responsibility of States to support the work of the Committee, one speaker said.

    Speakers said creative initiatives were needed to address the financial situation, including digital meetings. One State expressed support for the Committee’s efforts to harmonise and increase efficiency for its work.

    One speaker said the Committee needed to further consider the cultural diversity of States in preparing its concluding observations. If the Committee did not consider challenges such as terrorism and unilateral coercive measures, its recommendations would be considered irrelevant to the realities on the ground in some countries. The speaker called on the Committee to prepare a general comment on the impact of unilateral coercive measures on civil and political rights.

    Responses by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert said the treaty bodies were implementing innovative methods to review States parties. The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women had this year conducted a special, informal meeting in Fiji to review States parties in the region. This initiative was funded by States parties, and could be a model for other Committees to follow. The application of simplified procedures to individual communications would not be sufficient for fully addressing the Committee’s backlog.

    Closing Remarks

    CHANGROK SOH, Committee Chair, said treaty bodies were at the core of the human rights architecture. However, the Committee’s third session would not happen without extraordinary measures, and this trend would continue if the Committee continued to rely on the United Nations’ regular budget. Less than five per cent of the United Nations’ regular budget was allocated to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The treaty body system was not receiving enough funding for its core work. It was doing its best in terms of rationalisation and increasing efficiency. But as allocated resources declined, support diminished, creating a vicious cycle.

    To address this situation, special measures were needed, such as utilising voluntary contributions transparently. Without a properly functioning treaty body system, human rights protections would weaken around the world. Decisive and urgent action was needed to protect the treaty body system and human rights around the world.

    ____________

    This document is produced by the United Nations Information Service at Geneva and is intended for public information; it is not an official document.
    The English and French versions of our news releases are different because they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

    CCPR25.017E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Help shape the future of inclusive disaster risk reduction and climate action for assistive technology users

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Persons with disabilities, older persons, and others who use assistive technology (AT)-such as mobility aids, hearing devices, or communication tools-face increased risks during disasters and climate-induced emergencies. Too often, they are left behind due to inaccessible early warning systems, unsafe evacuation procedures, and a lack of continuity in essential services.

    To address these gaps, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), in partnership with the ATscale Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, has led a global study on inclusive disaster risk reduction and climate action for AT users. The study engaged nearly 300 stakeholders across 90 countries, including persons with disabilities, older persons, and their representative organizations.

    The findings have informed the development of a draft policy brief, now available for public consultation. The brief outlines key challenges, good practices, and concrete policy recommendations to ensure AT users are no longer left behind in disaster and climate planning.

    Access the draft policy brief

    We invite your feedback and comments to help strengthen this global call to action. Please share your feedback or questions with Nino Gvetadze, at: [email protected]

    Deadline for comments: Friday, 25 July 2025

    Your input will help ensure the voices and rights of assistive technology users are heard, valued, and reflected in global disaster and climate action.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Sheriffs shut down drug house in Edmonton

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Tusk of Poland at Ukraine Recovery Conference

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    10 Luglio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, met today with the Polish Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, in the margins of the Ukraine Recovery Conference.

    The meeting focused on bilateral relations between Poland and Italy, from economic and trade collaboration to defence industry cooperation.

    Particular attention was also paid to issues on the European agenda, starting with the common commitment on migration. In this regard, the two leaders confirmed their determination to continue searching for innovative solutions to fight irregular immigration.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ex-Google and Meta Engineers Launch Nauma: Personalized Financial Planning Tools for Tech Professionals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A team of former Google and Meta engineers has launched Nauma, a new platform designed to help people working in tech navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. Nauma’s mission is to democratize fiduciary-quality financial guidance, providing highly personalized planning tools without the high costs of traditional financial advisors.

    Today, most high-net-worth families rely on advisors who charge based on Assets Under Management (AUM)—typically 1% of a client’s assets each year. For a family with $5 million, that means paying $50,000 annually, even as the level of service often remains static. Worse, these fees tend to rise 6–8% per year as portfolios grow, creating a system where costs scale without a proportional increase in value.

    “The AUM model is outdated and misaligned with clients’ best interests,” said Alex Sukhanov, co-founder of Nauma. “Advisors operating under this model are incentivized to keep assets under their control, which can lead to biased advice when clients actually want to use their money—to buy real estate, start a business, or donate to charity.

    Nauma is designed to give tech professionals clarity and control over their financial lives. The platform addresses the complex challenges faced by this group, including optimizing taxes, managing equity compensation, planning for early retirement, and protecting generational wealth.

    “Tech professionals are building substantial wealth earlier in their lives, but most tools and advisors aren’t designed for their unique needs,” said Simone, Nauma’s co-founder. “We’re building the modern, intelligent financial planning infrastructure we wish we had—one that puts people, not assets, first.”

    For more information, visit https://nauma.ai

    About Nauma
    Founded by ex-Google and Meta engineers, Nauma provides advanced financial planning tools tailored for people working in tech. By replacing the legacy AUM fee model with scalable, technology-driven solutions, Nauma empowers users to navigate complex financial decisions and build wealth on their own terms.

    Media Contact
    hello@nauma.ai

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74982a9a-7d84-4a5c-8e07-edb337b65345

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Annual General Meeting 2025 minutes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oslo, 10 July 2025

    The Annual General Meeting of Interoil Exploration and Production ASA was held in Oslo on 10 July 2025. The minutes from the meeting are attached.

    + + + 

    This information is subject of the disclosure requirements of section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    Please direct any further questions to: ir@interoil.no

    + + +

    Interoil Exploration and Production ASA is a Norwegian based exploration and production company – listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with focus on Latin America. The Company is operator and license holder of several production and exploration assets in Colombia and Argentina with headquarter in Oslo  

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Longevity Dividend

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    On World Population Day, the numbers tell a remarkable story: global fertility has plunged by more than half since 1950. Countries that adapt their economic models now will thrive in tomorrow’s demographic reality. More in F&D magazine. https://imf.org/en/Publications/fandd/issues/2025/06/the-longevity-dividend-andrew-scott

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VaiS-FG0E4I

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Secret negotiations between Türkiye and Syria on the delimitation of maritime zones in the Eastern Mediterranean – E-002735/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002735/2025/rev.1
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Yannis Maniatis (S&D)

    According to a letter from the Turkish Foreign Minister to the Office of the President of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, published today[1], Türkiye has initiated secret negotiations with the new regime in Syria on the delimitation of maritime zones beyond territorial waters in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

    Bearing in mind that Türkiye has very close relations with the new Syrian regime, and that the Turkish-Libyan memorandum of understanding – by which Türkiye tried to establish an Exclusive Economic Zone between Türkiye and Libya – violates international law, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the sovereign rights of Greece, as recognised by the European Council in its conclusions, can the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy say:

    • 1.Are there any conditions for lifting sanctions on the Syrian regime? If so, what are they?
    • 2.What steps will she take to prevent such an agreement and protect the sovereign rights of EU Member States in the Eastern Mediterranean?
    • 3.What sanctions will she impose on both Türkiye and the new Syrian regime, should an agreement on the delimitation of maritime zones such as an EEZ or continental shelf between Syria and Türkiye violate international law and the sovereign rights of EU Member States?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.iefimerida.gr/kosmos/nordic-monitor-mystikes-diapragmateyseis-toyrkia-syria
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Tackling aviation contrails – E-001706/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has been actively supporting research efforts to better understand and address the impact of contrails on the climate for over 35 years.

    It is indeed due to these EU and national efforts that we have the present level of understanding and global leadership in this domain. As we work towards implementing effective contrail avoidance practices, our current focus remains on tackling all aviation emissions in the most effective manner.

    The Commission is currently working on fuel composition and exploring possible ways to improving jet fuel quality to reduce aromatics and sulphur levels lowering the amounts of non-CO2-emissions stemming from fuel consumption.

    Similarly, the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation[1] and the increased adoption of specific types of sustainable aviation fuels are expected to contribute to the decrease of contrail formation that affect non-CO2 climate impacts.

    In addition, the climate impacts of non-CO2 are already being monitored and reported following the entry into applicability of the Measurement Reporting and Verification framework as of 1 January 2025, as part of the EU Emissions Trading System Directive.

    Financial opportunities for contrail avoidance and sustainable aviation are available through EU funding programmes[2]. For example, the ‘dynamic collaboration to generalize eco-friendly trajectories’ (CONCERTO)[3] aims to demonstrate that more environmental trajectories and climate mitigation measures can be implemented in the daily operations to reduce CO2 and non-CO2 emissions.

    All the above EU research projects and many other national ones (e.g Climaviation[4] and LUFO[5]) are expected to ensure a rapid and holistic reduction of all non-CO2 emissions (including contrails).

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/2405.
    • [2] For example Horizon Europe, PACIFIC, UNIC, E_CONTRAIL, BECOM, CICONIA, as well as the Single European Sky ATM Research 3 Joint Undertaking and the EU ETS Innovation Fund.
    • [3] https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101114785.
    • [4] https://climaviation.fr/en/research-focus/contrails/.
    • [5] https://www.bauhaus-luftfahrt.net/en/projects/project-airtime-reducing-co2-emissions-and-contrails-with-advanced-wing-technologies.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protection of the Holy Monastery of Sinai – E-002184/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and the EU Delegation in Cairo are aware of and closely monitoring the developments following the Ismailia Court of Appeals’ ruling linked to the legal status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai.

    In a meeting called by the Arab Republic of Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, the Egyptian authorities assured Member States’ Ambassadors and the EU Head of Delegation in Cairo that the Egyptian government remains fully committed to preserving the monastery’s religious, historical, and spiritual status.

    The Egyptian authorities reaffirmed that the monks’ access to the site will not be affected by the court ruling. This matter is also subject to ongoing direct negotiations between the Greek and Egyptian governments.

    The EU, and its Member States, will continue to follow this matter and the commitments made by the government of Egypt.

    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Closure of the Monastery of St Catherine in Sinai and violation of religious freedoms by the Egyptian authorities – E-002164/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and the EU Delegation in Cairo are aware of and continue to monitor the recent developments in Egypt after the Ismailia Court of Appeals issued a ruling linked to the legal status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai.

    In a meeting called by the Arab Republic of Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, the Egyptian authorities assured Member States’ Ambassadors and the EU Head of Delegation in Cairo that the Egyptian government remains fully committed to preserving the monastery’s religious, historical, and spiritual status, adding that the current status of the area around Saint Catherine’s Monastery is untouchable. It was reaffirmed that the monks’ access to the site will not be affected by the court ruling.

    The EU welcomes the commitments of the governments of Greece and Egypt to work together towards safeguarding the rights of Saint Catherine’s Monastery and awaits any new developments with regard to its legal status.

    The EU will continue to follow the situation closely and await the result of the discussions between the Egyptian and Greek Authorities, insisting on the necessity to preserve the monastery’s religious, historical, and spiritual status, in accordance with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage Convention[1].

    • [1] United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage convention website, Saint Catherine Monastery: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/954/.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Following up on the Commission’s examination of complaints arising from proposals to restrict industrial hemp that have since entered into force with Legislative Decree No 48/2025 – E-001565/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission is currently assessing the conformity of decree-law No 48/2025[1] with Directive (EU) 2015/1535[2] and will be in dialogue with the Italian authorities. The Commission is unable to comment further at this stage.

    2. As mentioned in its answer[3] to Question E-001510/2024, the Commission has received multiple complaints regarding a proposed amendment to the Italian law on public security that restricts the movement of hemp inflorescences or products containing such inflorescences. However, the Commission underlines that this amendment is still under examination in the Italian Senate and hence not yet in force. As the Italian Government has recently adopted the above-mentioned decree-law which includes similar provisions[4], the Commission is currently assessing its compliance with the Treaties and with secondary Union legislation. The Commission is unable at this stage to provide further information.

    3. The Commission refers the Honourable Member to its communications ‘EU law: Better results through better application’[5] and ‘Enforcing EU law for a Europe that delivers’[6] which set out in more detail how the Commission ensures the enforcement of EU law, including aspects concerning the resolution of potential breaches of EU law.

    • [1] The decree-law in question (Disposizioni urgenti in materia di sicurezza pubblica, di tutela del personale in servizio, nonche’ di vittime dell’usura e di ordinamento penitenziario) was published in the Italian Official Journal (Gazzetta Ufficiale) General Series no 85 of 11 April 2025 (GU Serie Generale n.85 del 11-04-2025).
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2015/1535 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 September 2015 laying down a procedure for the provision of information in the field of technical regulations and of rules on Information Society services, OJ L 241, 17.9.2015, p. 1.
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-001510-ASW_EN.html.
    • [4] The decree-law was converted into law (Legge 9 giugno 2025, n. 80) and published in the Italian Official Journal (Gazzetta Ufficiale) General Series no 131 of 9 June 2025 (GU Serie Generale n.131 del 09-06-2025)
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2017_018_R_0002.
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52022DC0518.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The statutory right of first refusal on the purchase of forests in Slovenia is an infringement of EU law – E-002543/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002543/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Matej Tonin (PPE)

    In Slovenia there is an established right of first refusal for the purchase of forests in the case of complexes of more than 30 hectares located in Slovenia. This right of first refusal is granted to Slovenian State Forests (Slovenski državni gozdovi, d.o.o. (SiDG)), the company that manages and administers forests owned by the state.

    I believe that such a broadly defined possibility to exercise a right of first refusal infringes EU law on three separate grounds:

    (1) Because it restricts the free movement of capital between Member States;

    (2) Because it constitutes an infringement of EU competition rules, as well as being unlawful State aid to a public company; and

    (3) Because there is no valid reason to establish such a right of first refusal, nor can such a right be in the public interest.

    Two applicants have already notified the Commission of an infringement of EU law, namely Jurij Rudež 6/12/2023 CPLT (2024)00008 and the Chamber of Agriculture and Forestry of Slovenia 16/01/2024 (2024)00467T.

    I would like to ask the Commission:

    Could such a broadly defined and legally guaranteed right of first refusal constitute an infringement of EU law?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Hungary’s ban on pride marches – E-001276/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Council regularly monitors the situation in Hungary. At the General Affairs Council meeting of 28 January 2025, Hungary took part in a country-specific discussion, in the framework of the Council’s rule of law dialogue.

    The developments mentioned by the Honourable Member fall also within the scope of the ongoing Article 7(1) TEU procedure. In the framework of the said procedure, a hearing of Hungary was held at the General Affairs Council meeting on 27 May.

    In July 2021, the Commission, which is responsible for overseeing Member States’ application of Union law, launched an infringement procedure concerning the Hungarian law of 15 June 2021 adopting stricter measures against persons convicted of paedophilia and amending certain laws for the protection of children. A case is now before the Court of Justice of the European Union (Case C-769/22) about the matter.

    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Impact of Regulation (EU) 2024/1745 – E-001213/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Article 3ae of Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 introduces a ban on access to EU ports and locks for vessels registered under the flag of Russia, including replicas of historical vessels.

    This prohibition was initially introduced in Council Regulation (EU) 2022/576 of 8 April 2022 amending Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 and was later amended by Council Regulation (EU) 2024/1745 of 24 June 2024 to clarify that replicas of historical ships are included under the definition of vessels.

    The prohibition aims to constrain the activity of vessels whose activity involves the generation of revenues or contributes to actions or policies which support Russia’s actions against Ukraine. If they were not covered by the ban, replicas of historical ships could be used by Russia to circumvent EU restrictive measures.

    The Council would point out that EU restrictive measures are carefully targeted, designed to be proportionate to the objectives they seek to achieve, and temporary in nature.

    The EU institutions work to develop restrictive measures in such a way as to minimise adverse consequences for those not responsible for the policies or actions leading to the adoption of restrictive measures. They are regularly reviewed, and the Council can calibrate, ease or end them, if deemed necessary and in line with the EU’s objectives.

    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – The implementation of country-specific recommendations under the European Semester cycles – 10-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This note provides an overview of the European Commission’s assessment of the implementation of the country-specific recommendations issued annually to EU Member States under the European Semester for economic policy coordination. It presents how their implementation has been assessed over time (during 2011-2025 European Semester cycles), both from an annual and a multiannual perspective. The note is updated on a regular basis.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Introduction of regulations that violate the principles of the single market and weaken the competitiveness of the European battery sector – E-001710/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Batteries, which account for 30-40% of value-added of a typical electric passenger car, are a critical battleground for future employment and value creation.

    Europe needs a cost-competitive domestic cell production and supply chain, also with a view to preparing against supply shocks and crises and protecting economic sovereignty.

    That would cover a large part of the supply of battery cells and European value-added along the supply chain, including EU production capacities of anode active materials, cathode active material and its precursor, and other relevant battery components. This also requires investments of European players in battery material mining and refining operations in Europe or oversea.

    As indicated in the Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector[1] published in March 2025 by the Commission, the objective for 2030 is to achieve a European added value of more than 50% along the value chain.

    Article 7 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1542[2] mandates the Commission to adopt delegated and implementing acts to supplement this regulation and ensure harmonised implementation across the EU.

    In accordance with Article 7 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, the Commission follows a stepwise approach with a gradual and cumulative increase in the carbon footprint requirements.

    For the final step of setting maximum carbon footprint thresholds, the Commission will carry out an impact assessment, including an assessment of the economic impacts of this measure.

    The aim is to boost transparency and shift the EU market towards batteries with a lower carbon footprint, regardless of where they are produced.

    As required by Article 7(1) of Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, the Commission is currently working on developing a methodology for calculating and verifying the carbon footprint of electric vehicle batteries on the basis of Annex II to the regulation.

    After publication of a draft delegated act on the ‘Have your say’ portal on 30 April 2024[3] and a dedicated meeting of the Member State expert group on 11 July 2024, the Commission is currently analysing the way forward for the adoption of the delegated act, taking into account the feedback received.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025DC0095.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/1542/oj/eng.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/13877-Batteries-for-electric-vehicles-carbon-footprint-methodology_en.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Procedure for reviewing the EU-Israel Association Agreement – P-002301/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The High Representative/Vice-President has been in regular contact with her Israeli counterpart during the process of the review of Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement[1].

    On 12 June 2025, the European External Action Service (EEAS) submitted a series of questions to the Israeli authorities, which were shared via diplomatic channels, to which the Israeli authorities provided answers before the Foreign Affairs Council of 23 June 2025. The Commission and EEAS are in regular contact with the Israeli authorities.

    Building on the EU Joint Communication for a strategic partnership with the Gulf (18 May 2022)[2], the EU aims to further strengthen its strategic partnerships with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Bahrain, the two Gulf Cooperation Council countries that have signed the Abraham Accords in 2020.

    On 10 April 2025, the President of the Commission, in a phone call with the UAE President, agreed to launch negotiations on a free trade agreement, alongside the negotiation of a broader strategic partnership agreement. The EU shares with the UAE and the Kingdom of Bahrain a mutual interest for regional security, stability and prosperity.

    The Commission has been stepping up the fight against antisemitism and cooperates closely with Member States and Jewish organisations to ensure the protection of Jewish communities, including as part of ProtectEU: a European Internal Security Strategy of April 2025[3].

    Strengthening security, fighting antisemitism and fostering Jewish life is mainstreamed in all relevant EU policy, including when related to shielding democracy and supporting civil society.

    • [1] https://eeas.europa.eu/archives/delegations/israel/documents/eu_israel/asso_agree_en.pdf.
    • [2] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Joint%20Communication%20to%20the%20European%20Parliament%20and%20the%20Council%20-%20A%20Strategic%20Partnership%20with%20the%20Gulf.pdf.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0148.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU potentially reestablishing relations with Russia – P-002380/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine is a blatant violation of international law including the United Nations (UN) Charter, goes against the EU’s objective to strengthen the multilateral rules-based order and is a threat to all countries, not just to Europe.

    The EU condemns in the strongest possible terms Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia must remain isolated internationally and, with its political leadership, held fully accountable for the violations of international law and international humanitarian law it has committed.

    Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022 marked a fundamental turning point in EU-Russia relations. The EU’s wartime approach towards Russia consists of isolating Russia internationally; imposing restrictive measures; ensuring accountability; supporting EU’s neighbours and helping partners worldwide to address the global consequences of the war; working closely together with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and partners; enhancing the EU’s resilience; supporting civil society, human rights defenders and independent media[1].

    As long as Russia continues to violate international law including the UN Charter and wages a war of aggression against Ukraine, there can be no return to normal relations.

    Since Russia started its war of aggression against Ukraine, the EU’s diplomatic engagement with Russia is being kept to minimum. The priority of any contact with Russia is to deliver the call to stop its illegal aggression and the violation of the UN Charter, and respect Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/foreign-affairs-council-defence-press-remarks-high-representative-josep-borrell_en.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Tackling the promotion of extreme thinness on social media – E-001820/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission takes the impact of social media on children very seriously, and is thus committed to swift enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA)[1].

    In 2024, it initiated proceedings against TikTok based on concerns that it may have breached the DSA in areas related to the harmful effects on children stemming, notably, from its recommender systems and addictive features[2]. These proceedings are ongoing, and the Commission is carrying them out as a matter of priority .

    As part of these proceedings, the Commission is closely monitoring the ‘SkinnyTok’ phenomenon. Should it find that TikTok does not comply with the DSA, it can adopt a non-compliance decision and order TikTok to take the necessary measures to ensure compliance with its decision.

    The Commission is currently working to finalise guidelines on the protection of minors online[3]. The draft guidelines recommend that platforms implement age assurance measures that reduce the risks of children being exposed to age-inappropriate content.

    The Commission and Member States are also working towards an interim age verification solution, which is intended to be an easy-to-use and privacy-preserving age verification method that can determine whether a user is 18 or older.

    The release of this is expected by the end of this year. It is intended to bridge the gap until the EU Digital Identity Wallet is available.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2065/oj/eng.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_926.
    • [3] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/commission-seeks-feedback-guidelines-protection-minors-online-under-digital-services-act.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Balanced development clause for islands and mountain areas – E-002132/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As per the communication ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’[1] from 11 February 2025, the Commission’s proposal for the next multiannual financial framework will ensure a simpler, more focused and more impactful budget aligned with EU priorities.

    The future budget will aim for a strengthened cohesion and growth policy, with regions at the centre, as underscored in the Commission’s political guidelines[2], and continue to actively support islands and mountain areas, considering their specific needs and challenges, notably in terms of economic development, adaptation to climate change, connectivity, migration and demographic transition.

    At the core of this modernised budget will be a national and regional partnership plan for each country with key reforms and investments, focusing on EU’s joint priorities, including promoting economic, social and territorial cohesion, and designed and implemented in partnership with national, regional, and local authorities to address their specificities.

    A place-based approach remains essential to respond to the unique challenges faced by the regions and territories. By combining key investments and reforms within one plan, it will be possible to address these challenges in a way that is more targeted and comprehensive.

    This approach will mix specific investments, legislative and regulatory levers, and technical support, to ensure rapid and effective deployment of funds aligned to local needs and European priorities.

    The plan’s single rulebook, wide eligibility scope and large financial toolbox, enabling the use of leverage through financial instruments, will help reduce the administrative burden for beneficiaries and allow for the design of more effective measures, tailored to the needs of each territory.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/6d47acb4-9206-4d0f-8f9b-3b10cad7b1ed_en?filename=Communication%20on%20the%20road%20to%20the%20next%20MFF_en.pdf.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Pfizer legal costs – E-002157/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The General Court has ordered the Commission to pay the legal costs of this court case. Since these costs have not yet been liquidated, it is not possible to quantify the legal costs at this stage.

    Concerning other costs related to the legal representation of the Commission, no fees or other disbursements for external lawyers have been incurred.

    As in similar judicial cases concerning administrative decisions taken by the Commission and challenged before EU Courts, no external lawyers were hired.

    The agents representing the Commission in this case are staff members of its Legal Service. Since it is part of the official duties of the staff members of the Commission’s Legal Service to represent the institution in those judicial proceedings, no separate invoice of work hours or costs can be determined for this particular case.

    Last updated: 10 July 2025

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