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  • MIL-Evening Report: Federal Newspoll still tied but Albanese’s ratings up; Queensland Newspoll has big LNP lead

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    A national Newspoll, conducted September 16–20 from a sample of 1,249, had a 50–50 tie for the third consecutive time. Since the last Newspoll three weeks ago, primary votes were 38% Coalition (steady), 31% Labor (down one), 13% Greens (up one), 6% One Nation (down one) and 12% for all Others (up one).

    Anthony Albanese’s net approval improved five points to -8, with 51% dissatisfied and 43% satisfied. Peter Dutton’s net approval was down two points to -15. Albanese led Dutton as better PM by 46–37 (45–37 previously).

    The graph below shows Albanese’s net approval in Newspoll this term. It has plus signs for the Newspoll results and a smoothed line has been fitted. After dropping to -13 net three weeks ago, Albanese’s ratings have rebounded to where they’ve been for most of this year, poor but not dreadful.

    Other recent federal polls have not been as good for Albanese and Labor as Newspoll. Albanese’s net approval was at -22 in YouGov and -15 in Freshwater, and Labor trailed by 52–48 in Freshwater, one of their worst results from any pollster this term. Freshwater leans a little to the Coalition relative to other polls.

    Asked what aspect of cost of living worried them most, 40% selected housing, 25% groceries, 18% energy and 11% insurance.

    Queensland Newspoll has thumping lead for LNP

    The Queensland state election will be held on October 26. A Newspoll, conducted September 12–18 from a sample of 1,047, gave the Liberal National Party (LNP) a 55–45 lead, a one-point gain for the LNP since the last Queensland Newspoll in March. Primary votes were 42% LNP (steady), 30% Labor (steady), 12% Greens (down one), 8% One Nation (steady) and 8% for all Others (up one).

    Labor Premier Steven Miles’ net approval was up one point to -10, with 51% dissatisfied and 41% satisfied. LNP leader David Crisafulli’s net approval dropped two points to +12. Crisafulli had a 46–39 lead as better premier (43–37 in March).

    Asked whether Labor deserved to be re-elected, 57% said it was time to give someone else a go (down one since March), while 29% said they deserved to be re-elected (up three). By 53–47, voters were confident that the Crisafulli LNP is ready to govern.

    Labor will be a little relieved that this poll was not worse. A YouGov poll in July and a Wolf + Smith poll in August had both given the LNP a 57–43 lead. Nearly ten years after they gained power in Queensland following the January 2015 election, Labor appears doomed.

    Further federal polls: YouGov poll tied

    A national YouGov poll, conducted September 13–19 from a sample of 1,619, had a 50–50 tie, unchanged from the previous YouGov poll in late August. Primary votes were 39% Coalition (up two), 30% Labor (down two), 14% Greens (up one), 7% One Nation (down one) and 10% for all Others (steady).

    In the previous YouGov poll, Labor was unlucky not to lead given the primary votes. In this poll, Labor is lucky not to trail.

    Albanese’s net approval slumped 11 points to -22, with 58% dissatisfied and 36% satisfied. Dutton’s net approval was down five points to -10. Albanese led as preferred PM by 42–39 (43–38 in August).

    Freshwater has one of Coalition’s best results this term

    A national Freshwater poll for The Financial Review, conducted September 13–14 from a sample of 1,057, gave the Coalition a 52–48 lead, a one-point gain for the Coalition since the August Freshwater poll. This is one of the best results for the Coalition from any pollster this term. Primary votes were 42% Coalition (up one), 30% Labor (down two), 13% Greens (up one) and 15% for all Others.

    Albanese’s net approval was down five points to -15, with 49% unfavourable and 34% favourable. Dutton’s net approval was down one point to -4. Albanese led Dutton as preferred PM by an unchanged 45–41.

    Asked to give their top three issues, 74% selected cost of living as a top issue, and the Coalition increased its lead over Labor on cost of living from seven points in August to 14. The Coalition also had a 16-point lead on economic management (13 in August).

    Morgan poll: Labor has narrow lead

    A national Morgan poll, conducted September 9–15 from a sample of 1,634, gave Labor a 50.5–49.5 lead, a 0.5-point gain for the Coalition since the September 2–8 Morgan poll.

    Primary votes were 37.5% Coalition (up one), 30.5% Labor (up 0.5), 12.5% Greens (down two), 5.5% One Nation (down 0.5), 10% independents (up 0.5) and 4% others (up 0.5).

    The headline figure uses respondent preferences. By 2022 election preferences, Labor led by an unchanged 52–48.

    Redbridge and Accent Research MRP poll tied at 50–50

    A national Redbridge and Accent Research multi-level regression with post-stratification (MRP) poll, conducted July 10 to August 27 from a sample of 5,976, had a 50–50 tie, a two-point gain for the Coalition since the last MRP poll between February and May. Primary votes were 38% Coalition (up two), 32% Labor (steady), 12% Greens (down one) and 19% for all Others (steady).

    MRP polls use modelling to estimate the number of seats that would be won by each party. The August MRP poll had a point estimate of 69 Labor seats out of 150, 68 Coalition, three Greens and ten others. In the May poll, Labor had 77 seats out of 151, the Coalition 60, the Greens three and others 11.

    The August poll had no chance either major party would win a majority (76 seats), but Labor had a 75% chance of winning the most seats. These probabilities reflect the poll’s data, and are not predictions for the election, due by May 2025.

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

    – ref. Federal Newspoll still tied but Albanese’s ratings up; Queensland Newspoll has big LNP lead – https://theconversation.com/federal-newspoll-still-tied-but-albaneses-ratings-up-queensland-newspoll-has-big-lnp-lead-238790

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Dogma or data? Why sentencing reforms in NZ will annoy judges and clog the courts

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kris Gledhill, Professor of Law, Auckland University of Technology

    Getty Images

    The Luxon government surely has little sense of irony.

    Shortly after introducing the Parliament Bill, designed to reinforce the fundamental constitutional principle of the separation of powers, it has introduced the Sentencing Reform (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to constrain the judicial arm of the state.

    Its purpose is to put more people into prison for longer. In its Regulatory Impact Statement, the Ministry of Justice estimates 1,350 people will be added to the current prison population. The ministry is also clear that most of the changes are unnecessary and rest on inadequate consultation, particularly with Māori.

    The main change the bill makes is to cap reductions in a prison sentence for mitigating factors at “40% of the sentence”, unless that would be “manifestly unjust”.

    Mitigating factors

    To understand why this is a problem, we need to start with how the Sentencing Act 2002 works. First, the seriousness of an offence provides a starting point. Since the maximum sentence is for the worst example of the offence, the facts can be put on a scale.

    Secondly, the judge considers aggravating factors, such as repeat offending, malicious motivations or the victim’s vulnerability. The new bill specifies various additional aggravating factors, but the ministry notes these are already taken into account.

    Finally, the judge looks at mitigating factors, such as youth, intellectual disability or mental illness, remorse and positive steps to remedy the cause of offending.

    One important available reduction is for a guilty plea. The bill will cap this at 25% – the Supreme Court already decided this several years ago.

    Sentence reductions based on these factors will regularly exceed the overall 40% cap proposed in the new bill. For example, impulsive offending by a young adult with ADHD who was in state care because of family abuse, and who pleads guilty early, would likely mean a considerable sentence reduction.

    Similarly, offending by someone who both admits it, shows remorse and assists the police would qualify for considerable reductions.



    Read more:
    A last minute amendment to NZ’s gang legislation risks making a bad law worse

    ‘Moral and fiscal failure’

    The New Zealand judiciary is not soft by world standards. Its rate of incarceration – currently 181 per 100,000 people – places the country 90th out of 223 jurisdictions.

    This is well above Australia, England, Wales and Scotland, and double the rates in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Canada. As Māori have long made up more than 50% of the prison population, their incarceration rate is at US levels. Do we really want to make this worse?

    When former Finance Minister Bill English observed New Zealand’s high prison population represented a “moral and fiscal failure”, he asked the chief science advisor to collate the evidence.

    The resulting 2018 report, Using Evidence to Build a Better Justice System, concluded the prison population had grown because of “dogma not data”.

    Prisoners are seven times more likely than the general population to have a mental health or substance abuse problem. Ninety percent have a history of mental health or addiction, with 60% still affected. Up to 70% have significant literacy problems.

    The sentencing reform proposals rest on the notion people should take more personal responsibility. But they overlook the reality of most of the people in the system having a reduced capacity to do that. This looks more like dogma than data.

    And since prisons train people in criminal ways and provide gangs with recruits, but do not deal with underlying causes of criminal behaviour, it is dogma that risks creating more victims.

    Increased prisoner numbers: Paremoremo Maximum Security Prison, Auckland.
    Getty Images

    A stressed justice system

    On top of this, the criminal justice system is creaking, without enough judges or courtrooms. Complainants, defendants and witnesses already wait too long for trials.

    Reductions in sentences for guilty pleas and other mitigating features are essential to preventing this from getting worse. Some of these factors only come to light at the sentencing hearing when pre-sentence reports (often including medical reports) are provided.

    Also, the final preparation for a trial often leads the prosecution to accept a plea to a less serious offence. And the time waiting for a trial often means a defendant will have served all or much of their sentence already.

    If a judge feels obliged to impose a higher sentence because of the new amendments, lawyers will have to advise defendants accordingly. Inevitably, more will decide to take their chances in a trial rather than plead guilty.

    That means more complainants will have to give evidence, some defendants will be acquitted, and the criminal justice system will creak more.

    Judges and rules

    Judges will have to confront some dissonance in the law. The Sentencing Act requires judges to impose the “least restrictive” sentence. But a sentence that is longer than appropriate doesn’t meet that requirement.

    A longer-than-necessary prison sentence is arguably arbitrary detention. But the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act requires judges to interpret other statutes to avoid breaching rights if possible, including the right not to be detained arbitrarily.

    In addition, a fair trial should aim to secure the right sentence for the individual defendant.

    Judges do not sign up to breach people’s rights. Nor do they like it when the executive branch of government uses its parliamentary majority to overstep the separation of powers. Quite properly, they will do what they can to secure individualised justice.

    They might, for example, set a sentence at the low end of the available range to achieve the same outcome while appearing to abide by the new 40% cap. Or they might just decide a rehabilitative sentence, invariably non-custodial, is the better outcome.

    Judges spend all their time dealing with rules. You can expect them to be creative in finding ways around restrictions that should not be imposed on them.

    Kris Gledhill is currently working on a project relating to sentencing that is funded by the Borrin Foundation. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Criminal Bar Association, which represents prosecution and defence lawyers. The views stated in this article are his own.

    – ref. Dogma or data? Why sentencing reforms in NZ will annoy judges and clog the courts – https://theconversation.com/dogma-or-data-why-sentencing-reforms-in-nz-will-annoy-judges-and-clog-the-courts-239303

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York Walls in Bloom

    Source: City of York

    Residents and visitors will be able to experience areas of the city walls from a fresh perspective next spring, as this unique and historic space blooms into life.

    Volunteers and businesses from across the city are coming together this week to help transform the City Walls embankments, for the first phase of the York Walls in Bloom project.

    This unique green space will evolve into a beautiful biodiverse landscape, where residents and visitors will be able to enjoy seeing many different pollinators thrive.

    Over its 2,000-year-old history, the city walls embankments (ramparts) have constantly evolved and changed from being cleared sheer slopes, areas of grazing until the mid-20th century and in recent years manicured lawns and bedding plants.

    The first phase of the York in Bloom project will be in the city centre at Station Rise. The area around the Station Rise rampart has over the centuries seen some of the most dramatic changes in landscape visible anywhere on the city walls.

    The season bedding displays here will be familiar to many residents and visitors, but this approach is not without its downsides. It’s resource intensive in terms of water and carbon used in the growing, transporting, planting, weeding and removing bedding plants. This makes the practice increasingly unsustainable for the city and the planet.

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said “York is proud to have some of the UK’s best preserved medieval walls, and this partnership project to cover the site at Station Rise in meadow flowers for York Walls in Bloom will not only look beautiful, it will also help support York’s bees, moths and butterflies, and help preserve the ramparts underneath.

    We are lucky to have expert advice from many partners and are also in the process of reviewing our maintenance of the walls overall. We will ensure that we adopt the very best heritage and ecology conservation practices to prevent soil erosion, which increases with extreme heat and increased rainfall, maximise the environmental benefit, and keep the Walls looking great for generations to come.”

    Inspired by projects such as the Tower of London ‘Moat in Bloom’, the council believes that carefully managed wild flowering could offer the right mix of stunning visuals, increased sustainability and improved habitat.

    York Walls in Bloom is being carefully introduced over the course of 2024. Earlier this year, the area was left to grow naturally for several months so that the ecological study could be undertaken. This was critical so that the council knew that any intervention wouldn’t endanger existing habitats.

    While next year will see a spectacular floral display near Station Rise, the area will still be very carefully managed over several years to balance the ecology of the site. The second phase of the project will be extended to the Red Tower, Walmgate next year.

    This will transform the flatter sections of rampart on the outside of the city walls by sowing wildflowers in Spring, to create a floral display in summer 2025, which over the following years will be carefully managed into a sustainable natural floral meadow.

    Introducing a more sustainable, natural environment in the coming years, including changing how frequently the grass is cut in this area, will ensure a healthier soil and more wildflower growth.

    The York in Walls project has gained the backing and sponsorship of local businesses.

    Simon Mahon, General Manager of The Grand York, said: “We’re delighted to be working on the York Walls in Bloom project. We’re very proud sponsors and are looking forward seeing wildflowers being introduced along the walls, which naturally will make this historical part of York even more beautiful.

    Here at The Grand, York, as part of our sustainability initiative we house approximately 50,000 bees on our roof – the honey they produce is used throughout The Grand in desserts, pastries and cocktails. So, we’re really happy to support this project.”

    From Tuesday 24 September, works will be visible on the ground when the turf will be ‘wither stripped’ to allow for the sowing of the wildflowers.

    With the help on York Cares, volunteers from across the city will come together to support the project and help sow the seeds.

    Holly Hennell, Manager, York Cares: “The 16th annual York Cares Big Community Challenge is taking place between 16 September and 11 October in partnership with City of York Council, St Nicks and the University of York. The challenge aims to connect communities with nature, providing volunteering opportunities at over 30 sites across the city along routes leading into the city centre around the city walls.

    “Employee-volunteers will get involved with a variety of practical activities to enhance biodiversity across the city including sowing seeds as part of the York Walls in Bloom project, a fantastic initiative which will really brighten up the city whilst also benefiting the environment. The York Cares team is excited to be able to get involved in one of the sessions alongside their members, demonstrating the difference we can make when we come together.”

    The York in Bloom project is funded by the Green Corridors project , the National Lottery Community Fund and is sponsored by local businesses including The Grand York.

    For more information visit York Walls in Bloom.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Safe

    Source: City of York

    Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Safe

    Published Thursday, 19 September 2024

    Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Safe is the key message from City of York Council and North Yorkshire Council during Cycle to School Week [23-27 September].

    Getting to school safely, especially as the nights are now getting darker is one of the most important things taught in schools, through the Bikeability and pedestrian training sessions, which take place throughout the year.

    Those who run the training sessions are joining forces with the York and North Yorkshire safeguarding children’s teams, to raise awareness of the importance of children wearing cycle helmets, bright clothing and putting on their bike lights.

    Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, said: “Cycling can be so much fun. It brings independence and it’s a fantastic way of building exercise into everyone’s day and improving health.

    “As the nights draw in it’s important to be visible on your cycle. Wearing bright clothes, using cycle lights after dusk and wearing a helmet will help to keep everyone safe. And drivers also need to play a role: driving responsibly, using mirrors to check for cyclists before turning, and giving cyclists at least 1.5m space when passing.”.

    Jason McAleese from Modeshift, who deliver the Active Travel Ambassador programme in secondary schools across York and North Yorkshire, said: “Cycling safety is crucial. If we want young people to embrace more active and sustainable ways of traveling to and from school, they must feel both safe and confident. With our support these Active Travel Ambassador schools lead the way by researching and developing behaviour change campaigns that prioritise active travel and road safety.

    Interested in having the Active Travel Ambassador programme at your secondary school, email jason@modeshift.org.uk

    Visit iTravelYork for cycling tips or to find out more about the cycle training.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada [scroll down for French]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada.  The Secretary-General appreciated Canada’s support for the Summit of the Future and the Pact for the Future.  They exchanged on Canada’s upcoming presidency of the G7, the promotion of sustainable development and effective multilateralism.

    ***

    Le Secrétaire général a rencontré S.E. M. Justin Trudeau, Premier ministre du Canada. Le Secrétaire général a exprimé son appréciation pour le soutien du Canada au Sommet de l’avenir et au Pacte pour l’avenir. Ils ont échangé sur la prochaine présidence canadienne du G7, la promotion du développement durable et un multilatéralisme efficace.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Brigades of CFA: Warracknabeal

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Warracknabeal Fire Brigade may be one of Victoria’s oldest fire brigades – but its members have always had a focus on innovation and progression.

    Located in the state’s north-west, Warracknabeal brigade has a history dating back to CFA’s formative years. The brigade began in the 1890s when local volunteers secured a 26-person Merryweather hand-operated manual pump enabling them to officially join the newly created Country Fire Brigades Board (now CFA). 

    By 1919, the Country Fire Brigades Board (CFBB) had seen the potential of motorised firefighting vehicles which were considered a great advance on horse-drawn vehicles. Following the war, there were also huge developments in the design and use of motorised water pumps, which made firefighting more efficient and effective.

    Warracknabeal’s then captain, local entrepreneur Tom Gardiner seized upon this opportunity, establishing Gardiner-Aussie Workshops in the early 1920s with the goal of building trucks and pumpers suitable for rural firefighting. His innovative design would prove successful and was quickly adopted by the CFBB. Tom’s workshop was commissioned to develop 55 pumpers prior to his death in 1935.

    The new pumpers would not be the first motorised vehicle produced out of Warracknabeal. A belt drive bike with a small four stroke engine and pedal assist was built by the Mallee Cycle works in 1905.  

    Another of the brigade’s early leaders has strong ties to CFA’s history and was instrumental in improving CFA’s early communication with members. In 1947 Captain Norman Tosh recognised the need for a regular publication to share information with brigades across the state. With approval from CFA, he became the founder and first editor of ‘The Fireman’ (now Firewise), a newspaper for volunteer firefighters which is still in circulation today.

    Warracknabeal Fire Brigade has grown significantly in the years since, and members are firmly focused on the future.

    Current brigade captain Cameron Whelan says, like its early years, Warracknabeal brigade continues to have a progressive and innovative lens focused on improvement.

    The brigade’s new, state-of-the-art station opened in mid-2023 replacing the 35-year-old station. The station features improved facilities such as drive through engine bays, a laundry, changerooms and other amenities. The brigade was able to provide a significant contribution to improve the size of the meeting room, rear shed, install bi-fold doors as well as make other improvements.

    “We’ve always been a vibrant and progressive brigade, so the modern design of the new station represents us well,” Cameron said.

    “We’ve built this station for the next 30 years so the vision is not only to support the needs of Warracknabeal today; we’re also looking beyond that to what will be required in the future.

    “Our Fire Equipment Maintenance servicing is key to the brigade continuing to improve facilities and operational equipment.

    “The brigade also has an active social Auxiliary membership primarily supporting the brigade through fundraising programs and assisting local community groups such as the Scouts and Guides.” 

    The brigade has about 70 members and attends about 40 incidents a year locally; members also provide support across the state during the fire season.

    With one of the key industries in Warracknabeal and surrounds being broadacre cereal farming, harvesting-related fires are one of the main risks the brigade encounters over the fire danger period. Its members have been heavily involved in the development of the joint CFA and Victorian Farmers Federation Grain Harvesting Guidelines.

    “The main incidents we turn out to are running grass and scrub fires through to harvesting machinery fires,” Cameron said.

    “Like many other towns we also have a range of other risks from hospital/aged care, large chemical storage facilities through to household or structural fires.”

    The brigade has a very stable membership and whilst they will always welcome new members, Cameron says they are lucky they don’t need to actively seek members.

    “Like many rural brigades, we can see a drop off when members reach 18-19 years old because they leave for university or work,” Cameron said.

    “A strong Juniors program aims to encourage skill development and succession from the junior to senior ranks. 

    “To encourage retention, we include fire ground practise as part of our Junior training to build their skills and eagerness.”

    Cameron said volunteering with CFA is for anyone who is willing to help their community, better themselves and join a bigger family.

    “The thing I’m most proud of in leading our brigade is the values our members display,” Cameron said.

    “Values such as care, respect and integrity are common attributes amongst our cohort.”

    This story is part of our profile series Brigades of CFA which highlights our brigades and the great work they do in their communities.

    Submitted by CFA News

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Over 100,000 Gather in the name of World Peace for the 10th Anniversary of the HWPL Peace Summit

    Source: NewzEngine.com

    On September 18, the “10th Anniversary of the HWPL September 18 Peace Summit” was broadcasted in over 40 countries and attracted approximately 100,000 people at the HWPL Peace Training Institute in Gyeonggi-do, Korea, where the anniversary was held.

    Hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the Department of Global Communications (DGC), the event was themed “Building a Global Community of Peace through Regional Cooperation.”

    Led by HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee, it was a celebration of the contributions of global leaders and citizens towards peace over the past decade and exploring strategies for future global unity. Notable attendees included Great Dharma Master Hyecheon of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and José Honorio da Costa Ferreira Jerónimo, East Timor’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Culture.

    Previously, the HWPL Peace Summit was first celebrated a decade earlier, in Seoul, 2014. The summit was attended by more than 1,000 political, religious, women’s, and youth leaders, as well as media representatives from over 140 countries. Discussions focused on conflict resolution, religious harmony, and the implementation of legal measures to ensure sustainable peace.

    During his commemorative speech, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee expressed gratitude to all participants for attending the 10th anniversary of the peace movement. He encouraged everyone by saying, “Let us no longer draw lines of difference between you and me. With love and peace, let’s unite to save the global village. Let us cooperate to help each other and leave behind a valuable legacy of peace for future generations.”

    Followed by 10 year’s worth of highlights, this led to many discussions of future plans of HWPL and their partners, with a particular emphasis on establishing a “regional network” for peace tailored to local characteristics. Through this regional network, HWPL aims to actively address threats to peace and consolidate collective capabilities.

    In light of this, HWPL established partnerships for peace development with intergovernmental organizations such as the Group of Seven Plus (G7+) and the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (PARLATINO). G7+ was established to promote harmony among conflict-ridden nations through peace, stability, and development, boasting 20 member states. PARLATINO, founded to promote development and integration based on democracy, currently has 23 member states.

    Additionally, the nationwide “Accompany: Connecting Korea” campaign was launched with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed during the ceremony. The “Accompany” campaign was initially trialled in major cities in Korea last July. Through this launch, HWPL aims to work with over 230 civic organizations to connect cultures across generations and carry out diverse peace activities.

    The “Accompany” campaign is a continuation of the Saemaul (New Village) Movement, which was responsible for South Korea’s economic development and social transformation in the late 20th century. The Saemaul Movement focused on modernising rural areas and strengthening community consciousness. Similarly, the Accompany campaign aims to overcome social conflicts rooted in generational, regional, gender, and ideological differences through social solidarity and cooperation.

    To achieve the goal of establishing a “regional network,” various sessions will be held worldwide, focusing on diverse groups. Additionally, under the slogan “Let everyone in the global village become a messenger of peace,” individuals will be encouraged to play active roles in promoting peace. Messages of peace and unity from citizens of all walks of life, both domestically and internationally, will be collected and shared.

    Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) is a non-governmental international peace organization registered under the UN DGC and UN ECOSOC that is acknowledged for their endeavors and efforts towards achieving peace worldwide.

    – Published by MIL OSI in partnership with NewzEngine.com

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Boozman to Young and Su: All People Should Have the Opportunity for Dignified Work

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353September 20, 2024
    Cotton, Boozman to Young and Su: All People Should Have the Opportunity for Dignified Work
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator John Boozman (R-Arkansas) today wrote a letter to OMB Director Shalanda Young and Acting Secretary of labor Julie Su regarding troubling reports that the Department of Labor (DOL) is considering a new rule that would abolish the 14(c) program wherein individuals with cognitive or physical disabilities can find employment and resources in a supervised setting. The Senators stated that all people deserve to have the opportunity for dignified work, and reiterated to Director Young and Acting Secretary Su that any attempt to disrupt this program without Congressional authorization would be illegal. 
    In part, the senators wrote:
    “All people, regardless of their abilities, should have the opportunity for dignified work. The 14(c) program does not limit the ability of disabled workers to engage in competitive employment. It merely provides those with difficulties in a traditional work environment the opportunity to engage in meaningful work. It provides many vulnerable Americans with a sense of accomplishment and provides their families and caretakers with time to complete activities necessary for the functioning of their households.”  
    Full text of the letter may be found here and below.
    September 20, 2024
    Shalanda Young 
    Director
    Office of Management and Budget 
    725 17th St NW
    Washington, DC 20503
    Julie Su
    Acting Secretary 
    Department of Labor
    200 Constitution Ave NW 
    Washington, DC 20210
    Dear Director Young and Acting Secretary Su,
    I write regarding troubling reports that the Department of Labor (DOL) is considering a new rule that would abolish the 14(c) program. Any changes to the 14(c) certificate program rests with Congress and not DOL.
    Since 1938, the DOL has provided intellectually and developmentally disabled Americans the opportunity to engage in meaningful work through Section 14(c) certificates. According to the Washington Post, despite these longstanding statutes, and no legislative reforms, the DOL is considering a new rule that would be the “regulatory equivalent of abolition of 14(c) programs.”
    All people, regardless of their abilities, should have the opportunity for dignified work. The 14(c) program does not limit the ability of disabled workers to engage in competitive employment. It merely provides those with difficulties in a traditional work environment the opportunity to engage in meaningful work. It provides many vulnerable Americans with a sense of accomplishment and provides their families and caretakers with time to complete activities necessary for the functioning of their households.
    Regardless of any policy objections the administration might have with the 14(c) program, it must be enforced according to the law. Former Secretary Marty Walsh, the last Senate-confirmed Secretary of Labor, agreed that changes to the program rest with Congress, rather than the DOL. Any efforts to make it functionally unworkable without Congressional authorization would be illegal.
    Before deciding on the legality of these proposed changes to 14(c), please answer the following questions:
    1. Where in the Fair Labor Standards Act and accompanying amendments does the DOL find the legal authority to make significant changes to this program, especially considering the Supreme Court’s recent decision to end agency deference in Loper Bright Enterprises .v Raimondo?
    2.How many disabled Americans would lose their jobs at sheltered workshops if 14(c) certificates were phased out?
    3.Has the DOL considered the secondary effects of these individuals losing their jobs, such as their families needing to provide caretaking services during working hours, rather than working themselves or performing necessary functions for their households? If so, provide the details of that analysis.
    Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. 
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Andrew Holness (ON, PC, MP), Prime Minister, Minister for Defence and Minister for Economic Growth and Job Creation of Jamaica

    Source: United Nations MIL-OSI 2

    he Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Andrew Holness (ON, PC, MP), Prime Minister, Minister for Defence and Minister for Economic Growth and Job Creation of Jamaica.  The Secretary-General welcomed Jamaica’s support to the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti and Prime Minister Holness’ support to the Financing for Development Agenda and participation in the Sustainable Development Goals Stimulus Leaders Group.  The Secretary-General and Prime Minister Holness discussed the importance of reforming the international financial architecture.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 206-2024: Services Restored: Monday 23 September 2024 – COLS

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    23 September 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    All importers and customs brokers who are required to lodge imported cargo documentation to the department for biosecurity assessment.

    Information

    Resolved time:

    As of: 09:40 Monday 23 September 2024 (AEST).

    The unplanned service disruption to the Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS) has been resolved. Clients can now submit lodgements as normal.

    Action

    No action…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A weakened Hezbollah is being goaded into all-out conflict with Israel – the consequences would be devastating for all

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Asher Kaufman, Professor of History and Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame

    For almost a year, Israel and Hezbollah have engaged in increasingly provocative cross-border skirmishes as onlookers warn that this escalating war of attrition could land the region in all-out conflict. The past few days have made that devastating scenario closer to a reality.

    First came Israel’s pager and walkie-talkie attack, an unprecedented assault on Hezbollah’s communications that injured thousands of the organization’s operatives. It was followed by the assassination of Ibrahim Aqil, a key Hezbollah leader, who died in an airstrike that also killed other senior commanders of the militant group, as well as some civilians. Hezbollah has responded by extending the geographical range of its rockets fired at Israel, targeting both military facilities and civilian neighborhoods just north and east of Haifa.

    As a scholar of Lebanon and Israel, I have followed the dynamics of this war of attrition since Oct. 8, 2023, the day after Hamas executed an unprecedented and deadly attack on Israel, which responded by bombarding the Gaza Strip. Hezbollah then began firing rockets into northern Israel in solidarity with Hamas in Gaza.

    Despite the high rhetoric and mutual threats of destruction, until recent days neither Israel nor Hezbollah, nor the latter’s sponsor Iran, have shown an interest in a full-scale war. All parties surely know the likely destructive consequences of such an eventuality for themselves: Israel has the military power to devastate Beirut and other parts of Lebanon as it did in Gaza, while even a weakened Hezbollah could fire thousands of missiles at Israeli strategic sites, from the airport to central Tel Aviv, water supply lines and electricity hubs, and offshore gas rigs.

    So instead, they have exchanged fire and blows along their shared boundary, with somewhat agreed-upon red lines concerning the geographical scope of attacks and efforts not to intentionally target civilians.

    But Israel’s recent attacks in Lebanon may have turned the page of this war of attrition into a new and far more acute situation, putting the region on the brink of a full war. Such a war would wreak havoc in Lebanon and Israel, and might also drag Iran and the United States into direct confrontation. In doing so, it would also fulfill the apparent of the Hamas gunmen who murdered around 1,200 Israelis on Oct. 7 in the hope that a heavy-handed Israeli response would draw in more groups across the region.

    A dangerous ‘new phase’

    Hezbollah’s secretary general, Hassan Nasrallah, has insisted throughout the near-yearlong hostilities that his organization would hold its fire only if a cease-fire agreement is reached between Israel and Hamas. In recent weeks, however, Israel has taken the conflict in the opposite direction.

    The country’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, described the coordinated attacks on Hezbolah targets as a “new phase,” adding that the “center of gravity” in the war was moving north into Lebanon. The Israeli government has added the “return of the residents of the north securely to their homes” as an additional war goal.

    The assault on Hezbollah’s communications system targeted the organization’s operatives but hit many civilian bystanders, leaving Lebanese in shock, trauma, anger and desperation.

    It demonstrated Israel’s tactical military advantage over Hezbollah. The unprecedented penetration into the heart of the organization’s command and rank-and-file structures has never been seen before in any conflict or war globally. It struck Hezbollah in its most vulnerable places and even exposed its coordination with Iran – one of the injured persons from the pager explosions was the Iranian ambassador in Lebanon.

    The killing of Akil two days later was another signal that the Israeli government had now decided to try to change the rules of this risky game of reprisals and counter-reprisals. It is clear that rather than the uneasy status quo that defined this war of attrition for nearly a year, Israel’s intent is now to pressure Hezbollah to concede.

    Getting out of control

    Nasrallah delivered a gloomy and defiant speech in the aftermath of the pager attack. While acknowledging that Hezbollah was severely undermined by this operation, he defined the Israeli attack as a continuation of “multiple other massacres perpetrated by the enemy over decades.”

    By doing so, he framed it within a popular historical narrative among many Lebanese and Palestinians who regard Israel as a criminal entity that regularly carries out massacres against innocent civilians.

    Nasrallah also insisted that his commitment to supporting Hamas in Gaza remains unwavering.

    While stating that Israeli actions have “crossed all red lines” and could amount to a declaration of war, Nasrallah also reiterated a point he had made in previous peaks of this ongoing conflict: that retribution is coming, the only question being of timing and scale. By doing so, Nasrallah hinted that he may still not be interested in a full war.

    Israel, on the other hand, appears less circumspect. After almost a full year of contained tension with Hezbollah, Israel’s leaders appear willing to risk an escalation that might get out of control.

    It is hard to determine what the strategy behind Israel’s actions is: Since Oct. 7; as the Biden administration has noted, Israel has not displayed a coherent strategy with clear political goals.

    Rather, critics of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggest that he is mainly motivated by his own political survival and the retention of power as the head of state, tying Israel’s interests to his own.

    Uniting the ‘axis of resistance’

    So where does this leave Nasrallah as he weighs Hezbollah’s response, surely in consultation with Iran? After such devastating blows to Nasrallah’s organization, it is hard to think that Hezbollah would be willing to scale down, stop its cross-border attacks and retreat away from the Israeli border, or give up its commitment to support Hamas in Gaza.

    Palestinian refugees listen to a speech by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah from a cafe at the entrance of the Sabra camp in Beirut.
    Joseph Eid/AFP via Getty Images

    On the other hand, opting for a full-scale war, after spending a year avoiding it, is fraught with risk – both Nasrallah and his sponsors in Tehran know well the high costs of such a war for Hezbollah, Lebanon and potentially also for Iran.

    If Hezbollah went to war now against Israel, it would embark on its most consequential move since its foundation in 1982. But it would do so with crippled communications systems and without much of its leadership – some of whom had worked for decades side by side with Nasrallah, building with him the military capacity of the organization.

    In some respects, Israelis under Netanyahu’s leadership, and Lebanese in a country increasingly held hostage by Hezbollah’s interests, face similar predicaments: Their well-being is being sacrificed for other priorities.

    Netanayhu’s recent statements about concern for Israeli citizens in the north sound hollow after 11 months of pursuing policies that put them more in danger, as well as opposing a Gaza cease-fire deal that would also end hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel.

    In Lebanon, Hezbollah has dragged the country into this war against the will of most Lebanese – a decision that has led to significant devastation in parts of a country already suffering extreme political and economic duress.

    Nasrallah’s speech described Hezbollah’s predicament as that of all Lebanon – while sending a veiled threat that dissent would not be tolerated. Many Lebanese are undoubtedly sympathetic to the Palestinian cause and resent Israel’s war in Gaza. But at the same time, they may balk at the idea that their own well-being has to be sacrificed in the process.

    In the meantime, Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader and mastermind behind the Oct. 7 massacre, may well be looking on at the unfolding events between Israel and Hezbollah with satisfaction. His plan was designed to trigger the unification of all fronts of the so-called “axis of resistance,” which includes the Houthis in Yemen as well as Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups with the hope for a regional war against Israel.

    A year later, we are closer than ever to that scenario.

    Asher Kaufman 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. A weakened Hezbollah is being goaded into all-out conflict with Israel – the consequences would be devastating for all – https://theconversation.com/a-weakened-hezbollah-is-being-goaded-into-all-out-conflict-with-israel-the-consequences-would-be-devastating-for-all-239469

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Largest jade dragon from Hongshan culture found

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This undated file combo photo shows a jade dragon unearthed from a stone tomb site in the city of Chifeng, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Chinese archaeologists have unearthed the largest jade dragon ever discovered from the Hongshan culture, an important part of the Neolithic Age, at a stone tomb site in the city of Chifeng, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, according to the regional institute of cultural relics and archaeology. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese archaeologists have unearthed the largest jade dragon ever discovered from the Hongshan culture, an important part of the Neolithic Age, at a stone tomb site in the city of Chifeng, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, according to the regional institute of cultural relics and archaeology.

    Measuring 15.8 cm long, 9.5 cm wide, and 3 cm thick, the artifact was found at a site featuring a circular tomb in the north and a square altar in the south, which is the only one of its kind ever found in the region.

    Apart from the architectural remains, human skeletal remains, burials, fire pits, and cylindrical object pits have also been discovered at the site. The unearthed artifacts include jade and painted pottery basins and tripod pottery cups, among others.

    The ongoing research at the site includes studies of the ancient environment, large-scale topographic mapping and carbon-14 dating, among others. The latest dating data indicates that the site belongs to the late Hongshan culture, dating back 5,100 to 5,000 years.

    The finds were revealed during a themed seminar held Sunday in Chifeng, which provided updates on the archaeological progress at the stone tomb in Yuanbaoshan of Chifeng’s Aohan Banner.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Welcomes Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, Signs Sister State Agreement with Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine to Strengthen Ties

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    September 22, 2024 – Scranton, PA

    Governor Shapiro Welcomes Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, Signs Sister State Agreement with Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine to Strengthen Ties

    Governor Josh Shapiro and members of the Shapiro Administrationwelcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a visit to the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant (SCAAP) in Lackawanna County – one of two major munitions plants in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

    President Zelenskyy made a special trip to the Keystone State to visit the Pennsylvania workers who are playing a vital role in Ukraine’s defense. During the visit, President Zelenskyy spoke with workers at SCAAP – a U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command (JMC) facility that manufactures large-caliber metal projectiles and mortar projectiles for the U.S. Department of Defense – and thanked them for their efforts. SCAAP specifically builds 155-millimeter howitzer rounds, some of the most vital equipment for Ukraine’s defense against Russia.

    “Pennsylvania is the birthplace of American freedom – and our Commonwealth proudly stands with the people of Ukraine as they fight for their freedom against naked aggression,” said Governor Shapiro. “I’m proud to welcome President Zelenskyy and his delegation to Scranton – to visit with the women and men who are fueling his country’s fight for freedom – and sign an agreement with Zaporizhzhia that will strengthen both states and foster collaboration for years to come. Pennsylvania looks forward to building a close relationship with Zaporizhzhia as we continue to stand on the side of freedom.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: MyWay+ enters hardware installation and system testing period

    Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory



    On 13 September 2024, the ACT Government assumed a caretaker role, with an election to be held 19 October 2024. Information on this website will be published in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions until after the election and conclusion of the caretaker period.

    Released 20/09/2024

    Public transport users are advised of changes to bus and light rail travel from today with the next phase of the MyWay+ transition beginning. This will see existing MyWay equipment removed from buses and at light rail stops so it can be replaced with new MyWay+ validators and other hardware.

    Key changes taking place from today, Friday 20 September 2024:

    • The MyWay ticketing system will no longer be available. Travel on buses and light rail will be free until MyWay+ launches in November.Customers will not be required to tap on and off during this fare free travel period.
    • NXTBUS will no longer be available. This includes real time information onboard buses, at bus stops and interchanges as well as the NXTBUS real time web site and SMS service.
    • Bus services will continue to operate to the scheduled timetable. Static timetable information is available at interchanges, major bus stops and online.
    • Light rail will continue to operate to the scheduled frequency. Next stop information will still be available for light rail (onboard and at stops).
    • System testing will begin and take place with over 200 Canberrans providing feedback on the new system and the journey planning functionality.

    The easiest way to plan your trip is by using the Transport Canberra Journey Planner or referring to timetable information.

    Although there is no longer a need for passengers to tap on and off with their MyWay card, passengers are asked to hold onto their card/s. The card number will be required for the transfer and refund process.

    People who were not able to register their MyWay card with funds before the Friday 20 September cut-off date are also asked to hold onto their card. These cards will be able to transfer to a new MyWay+ account once the system is launched in November. Further details will be available in the coming weeks.

    For updates and further information on MyWay+ and the transition period, please visit www.transport.act.gov.au.

    – Statement ends –

    ACT Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate | Media Releases

    Media Contacts

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Avian influenza quarantine areas eased

    Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

    On 13 September 2024, the ACT Government assumed a caretaker role, with an election to be held 19 October 2024. Information on this website will be published in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions until after the election and conclusion of the caretaker period.

    Released 23/09/2024

    Quarantine areas restricting the movement of birds and other materials, objects and equipment in the Belconnen area will be reduced as the ACT’s response to avian influenza (HPAI H7N8) enters the final phase.

    There have been no new detections of avian influenza in the ACT since 4 July 2024. From tomorrow, 24 September, the quarantine areas will be reduced to:

    • A restricted quarantine area within a one kilometre radius of the first affected property on Parkwood Road in Belconnen.
    • A control quarantine area within a two kilometre radius of the first affected property on Parkwood Road in Belconnen.

    In the restricted quarantine area the movement of birds, bird products and other materials, objects and equipment deemed as high risk is not permitted.

    In the control quarantine area, the movement of birds and other materials, objects and equipment deemed as high risk is not permitted, but bird products such as eggs may be moved under certain conditions.

    These restrictions will remain in place until late December 2024, but will continue to be reviewed as the response progresses.

    All bird owners should review the updated quarantine restrictions to know their responsibilities and continue to implement good biosecurity practices.

    The ACT’s response to avian influenza is moving to the final phase of decontaminating the first property affected by the disease.

    Avian influenza is a notifiable animal disease which means any suspected or confirmed cases must be reported immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

    For more information on the situation in the ACT and the movement restrictions, including a map of the quarantine area, visit the ACT Environment website.

    For updates on the current disease situation in other jurisdictions across Australia visit outbreak.gov.au.

    – Statement ends –

    ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate | Media Releases

    Media Contacts

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Move over Olympians, Australia’s wildlife are incredible athletes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Euan Ritchie, Professor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, School of Life & Environmental Sciences, Deakin University

    Now that the Paris Olympics and Paralympics have disappeared from our screens, let’s get back to watching animal videos.

    But seriously, have you ever paused to think about the athletic abilities of Australian wildlife?

    In my research as an ecologist, I’m constantly amazed by the strength, speed and resilience of our native animals. Their prowess is testament to the wonders of evolution, and the necessity of species having to adapt to challenging and changing environments in order to survive.

    Let’s take a closer look at some of our best competitors and how might they fare, against humans and overseas entrants. On your marks, get set… swim, hop, dig, dance, glide!

    Swimming

    Australians are renowned for being strong swimmers. But what is the fastest swimmer in the animal kingdom?

    On this there is much debate. Some suggest it’s the Indo Pacific sailfish, clocking in at about 30km/hr. That’s impressive, but much slower than oft-cited (but inaccurate) claims it can travel at more than 100km/hr.

    For perspective, the fastest human to swim the 50 metres freestyle is American Caeleb Dressel, completing this in a time of 20.16 seconds. That’s roughly 9km/h – faster than many people jog, but still no match for a sailfish.

    As in humans, swimming speed in fishes tends to increase with body length. Larger species that challenge sailfish for the fastest swimmer title include blue or black marlin. Shorter, torpedo-like bluefin tuna are also in contention. All are found in Australian waters, though not exclusively.

    While American swimmer Michael Phelps put in an impressive showing against a simulated great white shark, no human would beat much faster sailfish, marlin and tuna.

    Sprinting, long and high jump

    Aussie icons, red kangaroos can reach speeds of around 60-70km/hr. But they are no match for cheetahs, which can move at more than 120km/hr.

    Long jump is surely the kangaroo’s main event. Red kangaroos can jump a staggering 13 metres or more. Amazingly, this might not be enough to clinch gold. Snow leopards can jump more than 15 metres.

    Kangaroos can clear heights of up to 3m, so would perform well in the high jump. But they’d finish behind bottlenose dolphins, which can jump over 7m in the air, just for kicks.

    Scaled for body size, though, both species would be embarrassed by a tiny insect known as a froghopper. It jumps to heights of more than 140 times its body length.

    Kangaroos sure can jump, but they’re not the greatest of all in the animal kingdom.

    Battles of strength

    African elephants can lift more than 1,000kg and weaver ants more than 100 times their own body weight.

    But relative to size, a truly impressive champion is Australia’s horned dung beetle. At just a centimetre long, these diminutive powerhouses can pull more than 1,100 times their own body weight, roughly equating to an average man lifting two fully-loaded 18-wheeler trucks.

    And yet, horned dung beetles might still only claim silver. Another invertebrate Aussie, the tiny tropical moss mite, is perhaps the world’s strongest animal. It can pull more than 1,180 times its weight.

    Bigger does not always equal stronger.

    Packing the fastest, deadliest punch

    In terms of combat sports, bigger is not always better.

    Peacock mantis shrimps – invertebrates found in Australian marine waters and elsewhere – have the swiftest and most powerful punch in the lightweight crustacean division.

    They kill prey by punching them with strong, club-like appendages. They deliver blows at up to 23m per sec, akin to the speed and force of a .22 calibre bullet being fired.

    So powerful is the punch, it vaporises water and creates a super-hot shockwave that breaks up and incapacitates its prey.

    Nature’s deadliest punch?

    Tantalising contests

    What about a digging contest? Eastern barred bandicoots can shift 4.8 tonnes of soil a year. How would that stack up against marsupial moles, which can disappear almost instantly into desert sands? Or the expert excavations of wombats and aardvarks that can dig more than half a metre in 15 seconds?

    In terms of free-diving and flying, there’s really no contest. Cuvier’s beaked whale can dive nearly 3000m and peregrine falcons can reach over 320 km/hr. These animals are found across the globe, however – not just in Australia.

    Australia’s largest gliding marsupial, the greater glider, can sail up to 100m between trees. But gliding gold would surely go to the giant flying squirrel, which can glide up to 450m.

    I’d love to see a shooting contest between Australia’s archer fish and Madagascar’s panther chameleon. But finding the right arena for both aquatic and land-based sharpshooters would be tricky.

    Raygun’s kangaroo hop is now legendary, but a breaking (break dancing) contest between a peacock spider, spanish dancer (a type of nudibranch) and a magnificent riflebird might genuinely break the internet.

    Step aside, Raygun, peacock spiders are taking the floor.

    Appreciating wildlife athletes

    So who would win a global contest for the best wildlife athlete overall?

    If the competition was on land and focused on running, jumping, strength and climbing, it’s hard to go past the overall abilities of a Bengal tiger.

    Many amazing wildlife athletes are threatened with extinction. Others are gone forever.

    They include the incredible oolacunta – also known as the desert rat kangaroo. It’s powers of endurance in the desert are the stuff of folklore. As legendary Australian mammalogist Hedley Herbert Finlayson wrote in 1931:

    Its speed for such an atom, was wonderful, and its endurance amazing … when we finally got it, it had taken the starch out of three mounts and run us 12 miles; all under such adverse conditions of heat and rough going, as to make it almost incredible that so small a frame should be capable of such an immense output of energy.

    Let’s celebrate wildlife and their athletic abilities and ensure they have a secure future.

    Euan Ritchie receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action. Euan is a Councillor within the Biodiversity Council, a member of the Ecological Society of Australia and the Australian Mammal Society, and President of the Australian Mammal Society.

    – ref. Move over Olympians, Australia’s wildlife are incredible athletes – https://theconversation.com/move-over-olympians-australias-wildlife-are-incredible-athletes-238303

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with representatives of the European Union

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with Mr. Charles Michel, the President of the European Council, H.E. Mr. Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission and Ms. Jutta Urpilainen, European Commissioner for International Partnerships.
     
    They discussed cooperation between the United Nations and the European Union on global issues, including sustainable development and follow-up to the Summit of the Future.  They also exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan and the Middle East, as well as the war in Ukraine.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Finalists announced for the NSW Health Awards 2024

    Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

    Virtual care programs that improve access to rural and multicultural communities are among some of the incredible finalists being recognised in the NSW Health Awards 2024.
    Now in its 26th year, the awards acknowledge the personalised, sustainable, and digitally enabled programs that contribute to the wellbeing of patients and the community.
    NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM said it is really exciting to celebrate the people and teams who are enriching health in millions of ways every day.
    “These awards are a chance to recognise our incredible healthcare staff and volunteers, across the public health system,” Ms Pearce said.
    “It is important to celebrate innovative and sustainable programs which invest in the wellbeing of the NSW community, while also delivering better patient outcomes.
    “I congratulate the finalists, but I also want to acknowledge the work being done across the system every day, by our teams of doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health and support staff.”
    NSW Health received 186 nominations across the 12 award categories. Categories this year include the Keeping People Healthy Award, Transforming Patient Experience Award, and the Health Innovation Award.
    “All of the nominations really showcase the impressive and important work being undertaken throughout the state, so choosing the 42 finalists was a challenge,” Ms Pearce said.
    “The awards also recognise the significant contribution of community members who selflessly support our patients carers and staff, with the Volunteer of the Year Award.”
    The finalists and winners will be celebrated at the NSW Health Awards ceremony, which will be held on Thursday 24 October at the International Convention Centre in Sydney. It will also be livestreamed from 6pm.
    The full list of finalists is available on the NSW Health website.​​

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ANZ continues to support Hyundai Motor Company’s EV Manufacturing with USD1.35b Green ECA facility

    Source: ANZ statements

    ANZ has successfully closed an USD1.35b Green Labeled K-Sure covered Term Loan Facility for Hyundai Motor Group, funding its first electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in the US, as the world’s third largest car manufacturer continues to invest in the country.

    It will help accelerate Hyundai Motor Company’s electrification strategy with an expected manufacturing capacity of 300,000 units annually at its Georgia Metaplant complex.

    The Green Export Credit Agency (ECA) backed loan adheres to LMA Green Loan Principles, and reinforces ANZ as a key financing partner for Hyundai Motor Group, acting as ECA and Green Loan Coordinator, Mandated Lead Arranger, and Bookrunner on its past three mandates.

    Aaron Ross, ANZ’s Global Head of Project, Export & Asset Finance said, “These deals underscore ANZ’s market-leading position in the Korean ECA sector, delivering low risk, capital-efficient and high-returning facilities that meet our customer needs. We have executed four major EV sector transactions backed by Korean ECAs in the past five years.

    “We’re proud to play a role in supporting Hyundai Motor Group’s capital expenditure initiatives as it strives to become a global leader in electric vehicle manufacturing. Leveraging our expertise across Korea, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia and the US, we have been able to consistently deliver smart solutions by integrating sustainable finance to meet Hyundai Motor Group’s strategic and evolving needs,” Mr Ross said.

    Previous deals with Hyundai Motor Group include:

    • USD 940 million K-Sure-backed deal for Hyundai Mobis’ EV parts plant located within the Georgia Metaplant complex
    • USD 711 million ECA financing to establish South-East Asia’s first and largest EV battery manufacturing facility in Indonesia
    • SGD 230 million green loan to finance the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center in Singapore

    ANZ has set a target to fund and facilitate at least $A100 billion by the end of FY2030, including $A15 billion by end FY2024, in social and environmental outcomes through customer activities and direct investments by ANZ. This includes initiatives that aim to help lower carbon emissions, protect nature, increase access to affordable housing and promote financial wellbeing, as described in the target methodology.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS begins visit to Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FS begins visit to Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)
    FS begins visit to Madrid, Spain (with photos/video)
    ****************************************************

         The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, arrived in Madrid, Spain, yesterday (September 22, Madrid time) and began his visit.     Mr Chan led a group of local tech startups to visit Spain’s innovation organisation, Spain Startup and meet with its President, Ms Maria Benjumea, and representatives from its partner, IE University of Spain. Spain Startup is the organiser of the renowned innovation and entrepreneurship event South Summit, which has been running since 2012, bringing together startups, tech talents, investors and entrepreneurs from around the world. Through a variety of programmes, including startup competitions, networking events, and workshops, it offers startups opportunities to build global networks, exchange knowledge, and connect with investors. The South Summit event has now expanded to Brazil.     Spain Startup has indicated that it is actively considering organising an Asian version of the South Summit. Mr Chan said Hong Kong welcomes the event to be hosted in Hong Kong to attract startups and investors from the Mainland, particularly the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, as well as the broader Asian region, and he will instruct relevant departments to follow up actively.     Also joining the innovation and technology delegation on the visit to Europe are the Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Mr Albert Wong, and the Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport, Mr Eric Chan.     Mr Chan will continue his visit in Madrid today (September 23, Madrid time).

     
    Ends/Monday, September 23, 2024Issued at HKT 9:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to provide more diverse food for deep-space exploration missions

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China is working on serving a more diverse range of food options for future deep-space exploration missions, according to the Second Frontier Forum of Space Medicine held in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province in east China.
    During the recently concluded Mid-Autumn Festival, a cherished tradition symbolizing family reunion, the Shenzhou-18 crew aboard China’s orbiting space station enjoyed “space mooncakes” stuffed with lotus paste as well as their personal favourites such as spicy lamb and braised pork chops, which had been prepared in advance by the ground support team.
    “We have developed technologies to bring Chinese cuisine to the ‘space dining table’, allowing astronauts to enjoy ‘home-cooked flavors’,” said Li Yinghui, a researcher at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center.
    Li added that China has advanced precision nutrition control technology and built accurate standards for space flight nutritional supplies that can help astronauts address physiological issues caused by weightlessness and radiation and stay healthy during missions lasting over 180 days.
    “Various functional space foods featuring antioxidant effects, immune support, fatigue relief and gut microbiome regulation have been developed to enhance astronauts’ in-orbit adaptability,” said Li.
    With an eye on future deep space missions, China is also working on technologies such as in-orbit cooking that can sustain long-term living beyond Earth, said Zang Peng, another researcher at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Over 960,000 applicants register for China’s 2024 legal professional exam

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Over 960,000 applicants registered for the initial phase of China’s national unified legal professional qualification examination this year, featuring objective questions, held on Saturday and Sunday, the Ministry of Justice said on Sunday.
    The number of applicants represented an increase of 12 percent year on year, according to the ministry.
    Test centers for the exam have been established in all provincial-level regions, the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions.
    The results for the objective questions examination will be released on Sept. 26. Those who pass the phase can apply for the subjective questions examination between Sept. 26 and 30.
    The subjective questions examination will be held on Oct. 20.
    The national unified legal professional qualification examination, China’s bar exam, is the professional qualification for lawyers, judges, prosecutors and other law-related practitioners. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Scientists to start expedition into Asia’s longest cave

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A member of Guizhou provincial mountain resources institute observes the rock formation inside a branch cave of Shuanghe Cave in Suiyang County, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, Sept. 23, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Scientists from China, France, Portugal, Belgium and other countries gathered on Friday at the Shuanghe Cave, Asia’s longest known cave, in southwest China’s Guizhou Province for a launch ceremony of the 23rd joint international scientific expedition into the cave.
    The expedition is scheduled for Oct. 7 to 24, and the results of their findings will be made available on Oct. 24.
    Previous scientific expeditions found 44 individual giant panda fossils, with the oldest specimen dating back 100,000 years and the most recent dating back a few hundred years.
    The fossils prove that Guizhou was once a habitat for giant pandas, which are today known to survive in the provinces of Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu.
    Zhou Wenlong, deputy secretary general of the Guizhou Cave Association, said the upcoming cave expedition will further study the cave’s resources, formation and evolution.
    According to the results of the 2023 joint expedition, the cave network has 107 connected openings and boasts a length of 409.9 kilometers, making it the longest known cave in Asia and the third-longest in the world. It is also the world’s longest dolomite cave.
    French caver Jean Bottazzi, who has more than three decades of cave exploration experience in China, is acting as chief of the upcoming cave research. He calls Shuanghe Cave his second home.
    He said that since the late 1980s, the discoveries of Chinese and foreign experts in the cave have led to repeated updates of the cave’s length, and many cave fossils and living organisms have been unearthed, providing rich, valuable scientific research materials.
    During this year’s scientific expedition, Suiyang County, which administers the cave area, will hold activities such as a geological science photography contest and a short video contest to promote the cave geopark.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s digital publishing industry grows rapidly in 2023

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The scale of China’s digital publishing industry reached 1.618 trillion yuan (about 228.89 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, up 19.08 percent year on year, according to an annual report.

    The report, issued by the Chinese Academy of Press and Publication (CAPP), was released during the 14th China International Digital Publishing Expo that kicked off Saturday in the city of Haikou, capital of south China’s Hainan Province.

    By the end of 2023, the number of Chinese online literature readers reached a record high of 537 million. The overseas market scale for Chinese online literature exceeded 4 billion yuan, covering more than 200 countries and regions.

    Traditional culture has become a significant theme element in various Chinese online culture forms, including literature, animation and games, noted Wei Yushan, head of CAPP, at the expo.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s manufacturing industry delivers new momentum

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Qijiang-2 humanoid robot hands an orange to a visitor at the 2024 World Manufacturing Convention in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, Sept. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    With a human build and sleek appearance, the 1.8-meter-tall Qijiang-2 is captivating visitors in the exhibition hall of the 2024 World Manufacturing Convention as it can mimic human movements with remarkable precision.

    The humanoid robot, developed by Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Humanoid Robots, is certainly hogging the spotlight at the convention, which opened on Friday and will continue until Monday in Hefei, the capital of east China’s Anhui Province.

    Equipped with advanced sensors and intricate inertial measurement units, Qijiang-2 can perform delicate tasks such as folding clothes, opening bottles, wiping dishes and navigating uneven terrain.

    But it’s more than just a mechanical marvel. Beyond its physical capabilities, the robot also has decision-making features, including intelligent user recognition and secure access for authorized users.

    “In the future, these humanoid robots will be able to adapt to both industrial production and elderly care scenarios, serving as robot workers and robot caregivers,” said Liu Houde, director of the laboratory.

    Qijiang-2 and other cutting-edge exhibits like the Jiuzhou Yunjian Longyun rocket engine and the Origin Wukong superconducting quantum computer are demonstrating China’s breakthroughs in frontier technologies at the event, as well as its potential in the field of high-tech manufacturing.

    The gathering of leading global enterprises and industry experts has also reflected China’s commitment to advancing international cooperation and working with other countries to address the challenges and opportunities in global manufacturing development.

    “After 30 years of development in China, Continental AG values not only China’s market volume but also advanced technologies,” said Enno Tang, president and CEO of Continental China.

    With comprehensive industrial categories and a well-rounded manufacturing system, China has attracted global firms to strengthen their investment in the country.

    An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 20, 2023 shows a view of Volkswagen (Anhui) Automotive Company Limited in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Volkswagen Group in April announced an investment of 2.5 billion euros (about 2.8 billion U.S. dollars) in expanding its production and innovation hub in Hefei to increase its pace of innovation in China.

    The company also vowed to accelerate the production of two Volkswagen-brand smart electric vehicles (EVs), which are currently under joint development with Chinese manufacturer Xpeng.

    A deal reached in 2023 between the two companies gave Volkswagen access to Xpeng’s technologies, including its advanced driving assistance system, as the German carmaker made efforts to tap into China’s fast-growing EV market.

    The landmark cooperation agreement between Xpeng and Volkswagen testified to the willingness of China’s auto industry to share its technologies with the world, according to Xpeng CEO He Xiaopeng.

    As the world’s economic landscape evolves, China is stepping up efforts to collaborate with international enterprises, aiming to inject fresh momentum into the global manufacturing sector and accelerate the shift toward high-quality growth.

    This photo taken on Nov. 9, 2023 shows the booth of Schneider Electric at the 6th China International Import Expo in Shanghai, east China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    In the city of Xiamen in east China’s Fujian Province, construction on the Schneider Electric Xiamen Industrial Park began in April.

    China is Schneider Electric’s second-largest market globally, one of its most important supply chain bases, and one of its four global R&D hubs.

    After its completion, the park will be the French multinational’s biggest manufacturing facility for medium voltage equipment anywhere in the world, and some of its products will be supplied to overseas markets.

    The park will be a major R&D center, manufacturing center and supply hub through which the company will serve the global medium voltage market, according to Vincent Bruneau, vice president of Schneider Electric’s Global Supply Chain China.

    Through a combination of innovation-driven policies, open market access and strategic partnerships, China continues to strengthen its position as a key player in global manufacturing.

    “China has been advancing its manufacturing sector by focusing on high-end, intelligent, green development while increasing its efforts in technological innovation to unlock broader markets,” said Wan Hongxian, a professor at the Anhui University of Finance and Economics.

    “China’s manufacturing sector provides a highly promising market for global high-end equipment. Moreover, its advanced production capabilities and responsiveness to market demand enable the development of more high-quality products, delivering tangible benefits to consumers worldwide,” Wan added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 4 killed, many injured in mass shooting in US Alabama

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    At least four people were killed and many others injured in a mass shooting Saturday night in downtown Birmingham, in the U.S. state of Alabama, police said.

    Birmingham police said the shooting occurred in Birmingham Five Points South, an entertainment district near the University of Alabama, just after 11 p.m. local time (0400 GMT Sunday).

    Police said multiple people fired several shots at a group of people. When police officers arrived at the scene, they found three people — two men and one women — were dead. A fourth victim later died in hospital.

    At least four of the gunshot victims have life-threatening injuries, and the rest have “various injuries,” police said.

    As of Sunday morning, no one was in custody, and police said they do not have a motive for the shooting at this time.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Palestinians mourn for the victims after an Israeli airstrike on a school housing displaced people in the Zeitoun neighborhood in southern Gaza City, on Sept. 21, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 17 Palestinians were killed by Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip on Sunday, the Palestinian official news agency WAFA reported.

    Seven Palestinians were killed and some others injured in an Israeli bombardment of the Kafr Qasem School housing displaced people west of Gaza City, said the report. However, the Israel Defense Forces claimed Sunday that the strike carried out by its Air Force has “precisely” targeted Hamas militants operating within the school compound.

    According to WAFA, four other Palestinians were killed and some more injured as a result of an Israeli bombing of a house belonging to the Dawas family in the Al-Hakkar area of Deir al-Balah in central Gaza.

    In the south of the strip, Israeli artillery targeted the town of Khuza’a, east of Khan Younis, killing two people, WAFA reported, adding emergency teams recovered four bodies from the al-Attatirah area, east of Rafah, following Israeli bombardment.

    The Israeli army has not commented on these incidents.

    Israel has been waging a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which 1,200 people were killed and about 250 others taken hostage.

    The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip has risen to 41,431, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Sunday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Forum promotes exchanges between Chinese, LAC youths

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Nearly 70 young people, including youths from Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries, Chinese youth scholars and entrepreneurs, gathered in Dunhuang in northwest China’s Gansu Province over the weekend, to discuss mutual learning among civilizations and common development.

    During the China-LAC youth development forum, youth representatives from Lanzhou University, the Dunhuang Textual Research Institute and other institutions delivered keynote speeches on topics such as jointly building the Belt and Road Initiative, and the responsibility of young people in cultural inheritance and innovation.

    Leaders of youth organizations and cultural representatives from China, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Honduras, Venezuela and other countries exchanged their views on cultural heritage protection, cultural inheritance education, and youth innovation and employment during the event.

    The forum was hosted by the All-China Youth Federation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Nepal launch joint army training in SW China’s Chongqing

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A joint army training, co-organized by Chinese and Nepali militaries, kicked off Sunday in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality.

    This is the fourth iteration of joint training between the two militaries, with the previous session held in 2019.

    Under the theme of “joint counter-terrorism operations in urban blocks,” the joint training will include small arms shooting in special operations, counter-terrorism squad tactics, drone operations, emergency rescue, and comprehensive counter-terrorism exercises.

    The training will last until Oct. 1. In addition to joint exercise sessions, the two militaries will engage in research and exchange on disaster reduction and relief in earthquakes, avalanches and landslides.

    A series of cultural exchange activities will also take place during the training to enhance mutual trust and understanding.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The United Nations has a plan to govern AI – but has it bought the industry’s hype?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zena Assaad, Senior Lecturer, School of Engineering, Australian National University

    saiko3p/Shutterstock

    The United Nations Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Artificial Intelligence (AI) has released its final report on governing AI for humanity.

    The report presents a blueprint for addressing AI-related risks while still enabling the potential of this technology. It also includes a call to action for all governments and stakeholders to work together in governing AI to foster development and protection of all human rights.

    On the surface, this report seems to be a positive step forward for AI, encouraging developments while also mitigating potential harms.

    However, the finer details of the report expose a number of concerns.

    Reminiscent of the IPCC

    The UN advisory board on AI was first convened on October 26, 2023. The purpose of this committee is to advance recommendations for the international governance of AI. It says this approach is needed to ensure the benefits of AI, such as opening new areas of scientific inquiry, are evenly distributed, while the risks of this technology, such as mass surveillance and the spread of misinformation, are mitigated.

    The advisory board consists of 39 members from a diversity of regions and professional sectors. Among them are industry representatives from Microsoft, Mozilla, Sony, Collinear AI and OpenAI.

    The committee is reminiscent of the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which aims to provide key input into international climate change negotiations.

    The inclusion of prominent industry representatives in the advisory board on AI is a point of difference from the IPCC. This may have advantages, such as a more informed understanding of AI technologies. But it may also have disadvantages, such as biased viewpoints in favour of commercial interests.

    The recent release of the final report on governing AI for humanity provides a vital insight into what we can likely expect from this committee.

    What’s in the report?

    The final report on governing AI for humanity follows an interim report released in December 2023. It proposes seven recommendations for addressing gaps in current AI governance arrangements.

    These include the creation of an independent international scientific panel on AI, the creation of an AI standards exchange and the creation of a global AI data framework. The report also ends with a call to action for all governments and relevant stakeholders to collectively govern AI.

    What’s disconcerting about the report are the imbalanced and at times contradictory claims made throughout.

    For example, the report rightly advocates for governance measures to address the impact of AI on concentrated power and wealth, geopolitical and geoeconomic implications.

    However, it also claims that:

    no one currently understands all of AI’s inner workings enough to fully control its outputs or predict its evolution.

    This claim is not factually correct on many accounts. It is true that there are some “black box” systems – those in which the input is known, but the computational process for generating outputs is not. But AI systems more generally are well understood on a technical level.

    AI reflects a spectrum of capabilities. This spectrum ranges from generative AI systems such as ChatGPT, through to deep learning systems such as facial recognition. The assumption that all these systems embody the same level of impenetrable complexity is not accurate.

    The inclusion of this claim calls into question the advantages of including industry representatives in the advisory board, as they should be bringing a more informed understanding of AI technologies.

    The other issue this claim raises is the notion of AI evolving of its own accord. What has been interesting about the rise of AI over recent years is the accompanying narratives which falsely position AI as a system of agency.

    This inaccurate narrative shifts perceived liability and responsibility away from those who design and develop these systems, providing a creative scapegoat for industry.

    Despite the subtle undertone of powerlessness in the face of AI technologies and the imbalanced claims made throughout, the report does positively progress the discourse in some ways.

    A small step forward

    Overall, the report and its call to action are a positive step forward because they emphasise that AI can be governed and regulated, despite contradictory claims throughout the report which imply otherwise.

    The inclusion of the term “hallucinations” is a salient example of these contradictions.

    The term itself was popularised by OpenAI’s chief executive Sam Altman when he used the term to reframe nonsensical outputs as part of the “magic” of AI. Hallucinations is not a technically accepted term – it’s a creative marketing agenda. Pushing for governance of AI while simultaneously endorsing a term which implies a technology that cannot be governed is not constructive.

    What the report lacks is consistency in how AI is perceived and understood.

    It also lacks application specificity – a common limitation among many AI initiatives. A global approach to AI governance will only work if it is able to capture the nuances of application and domain specificity.

    The report is one step forward in the right direction. However, it will need refinement and amendments to ensure it encourages developments while mitigating the many harms of AI.

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

    – ref. The United Nations has a plan to govern AI – but has it bought the industry’s hype? – https://theconversation.com/the-united-nations-has-a-plan-to-govern-ai-but-has-it-bought-the-industrys-hype-239494

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –