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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Other events – Strengthening EU: Tackling Hybrid Threats, Preparedness & Gender-Based Violence – 02-06-2025 – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    In a series of recent joint committee meetings at the beginning of June, Members of LIBE, EUDS, SEDE, ENVI, and FEMM addressed a spectrum of pressing challenges, from the weaponisation of migration and emerging hybrid threats to the persistent violence of female genital mutilation (FGM) within the EU. Together, these discussions underscored a growing consensus: Europe must act with unity, foresight, and resilience to safeguard its citizens and values.

    On 2nd of June, LIBE and EUDS discussed how foreign actors are turning migration in a tool of hybrid warfare, with criminal networks exploiting digital platforms and crypto payments to evade detection. Frontex stressed the need for better intelligence-sharing to anticipate and counter such threats, while the Commission reaffirmed that measures taken must remain lawful and proportionate.

    Meeting in a joint session on 3rd of June SEDE, ENVI, and LIBE reviewed the new European Preparedness Union Strategy, which calls for a shared EU approach to risks ranging from cyberattacks to climate disasters. The strategy aims to embed preparedness across all policies, though Members called for clearer governance, adequate funding, and closer cooperation with neighbours.

    On 4th of June, Members of LIBE, FEMM and DEVE focused on female genital mutilation, which continues to affect around 600,000 women and girls in at least 16 EU countries. Experts urged the Commission to enforce existing laws and boost support for front-line efforts to end this form of gender-based violence.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Other events – Strengthening EU: Tackling Hybrid Threats, Preparedness & Gender-Based Violence – 02-06-2025 – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    In a series of recent joint committee meetings at the beginning of June, Members of LIBE, EUDS, SEDE, ENVI, and FEMM addressed a spectrum of pressing challenges, from the weaponisation of migration and emerging hybrid threats to the persistent violence of female genital mutilation (FGM) within the EU. Together, these discussions underscored a growing consensus: Europe must act with unity, foresight, and resilience to safeguard its citizens and values.

    On 2nd of June, LIBE and EUDS discussed how foreign actors are turning migration in a tool of hybrid warfare, with criminal networks exploiting digital platforms and crypto payments to evade detection. Frontex stressed the need for better intelligence-sharing to anticipate and counter such threats, while the Commission reaffirmed that measures taken must remain lawful and proportionate.

    Meeting in a joint session on 3rd of June SEDE, ENVI, and LIBE reviewed the new European Preparedness Union Strategy, which calls for a shared EU approach to risks ranging from cyberattacks to climate disasters. The strategy aims to embed preparedness across all policies, though Members called for clearer governance, adequate funding, and closer cooperation with neighbours.

    On 4th of June, Members of LIBE, FEMM and DEVE focused on female genital mutilation, which continues to affect around 600,000 women and girls in at least 16 EU countries. Experts urged the Commission to enforce existing laws and boost support for front-line efforts to end this form of gender-based violence.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Election of the 3rd and 4th Vice-Chairs – Subcommittee on Human Rights

    Source: European Parliament

    On 26 June, during its ordinary meeting of 25-26 June the Subcommittee held the election of the 3rd and 4th Vice-Chairs.

    • Isabel SERRA SÁNCHEZ (The Left, Spain) was elected as 3rd Vice-Chair
    • Arkadiusz MULARCZYK (ECR, Poland) was elected as 4th Vice-Chair

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ending the funding for Islamic cultural centres that are actually conducting religious activities – P-002560/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002560/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Susanna Ceccardi (PfE), Silvia Sardone (PfE), Anna Maria Cisint (PfE)

    A number of EU Member States, including Italy, have different types of indirect public taxes, such as the ‘eight per thousand’ rule in Italy, whereby taxpayers devolve 0.8 % of their tax to state-recognised religions, or the ‘five per thousand’ rule for third-sector entities.

    It has become evident that many Islamic cultural centres, operating officially as cultural associations, can access the ‘five per thousand’ contributions while carrying out religious activities, including worship, preaching and proselytism.

    These centres do not appear to be subject to the same transparency, oversight and control requirements as state-recognised religions, and in some cases they may be linked to foreign organisations or to ideologies that are incompatible with the fundamental values enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware that, in some Member States, bodies officially presenting themselves as ‘cultural centres’ can receive public taxes, even though they mainly engage in religious activities that are not subject to any specific regulations?
    • 2.Some entities – officially described as cultural bodies – promote ideologies that run counter to the fundamental values of the European Union. Does it believe that public funding for such bodies could be a cause for concern in terms of consistency with the obligations stemming from the Charter of Fundamental Rights and pose a risk in terms of potential radicalisation?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Participation of Santos Cerdán (PSOE) in projects financed with NextGenerationEU funds – P-002530/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002530/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE), Hermann Tertsch (PfE)

    According to police reports, Santos Cerdán, the former PSOE organisational secretary being investigated for corruption, holds 45% of the shares in the company Servinabar 2000 S. L. This company was part of a joint venture together with other companies in public tenders published by the Regional Government of Navarre. In 2023, the regional government led by María Chivite (PSOE) awarded a contract (valued at EUR 6.4 million) for the construction of 46 low-cost housing units in Erripagaña (Navarre). The project, managed by the regional public company Nasuvinsa, was co-financed with NextGenerationEU funds from the Recovery and Resilience Facility. According to multiple media outlets, neither the aforementioned shareholding nor the relationship with high-ranking socialist officials were declared in the tendering documents.

    In view of the cases of corruption surrounding Pedro Sánchez, the following questions thus arise:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the above situation and of the possible conflict of interest generated by the aforementioned shareholding?
    • 2.Has the Commission received any alerts or reports on possible irregularities in the aforementioned project financed with EU funds, for example, through the Irregularity Management System?
    • 3.When will the Commission alert OLAF and request information from the Spanish authorities to ensure that the EU’s financial interests are safeguarded?

    Submitted: 24.6.2025

    Last updated: 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Bombing of an orthodox church in Damascus – P-002501/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002501/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Nikolas Farantouris (The Left)

    Yesterday (Sunday 22 June 2025), a suicide bomber who was a member of the Islamic State opened fire before blowing himself up during the Sunday service at the Greek Orthodox church of Prophet Elias in Damascus, killing at least 30 and wounding more than 60 Greek Orthodox Christians. Yesterday’s dramatic events of religious fundamentalism constitute another bloody episode of violence in this ongoing series of attacks on schools, churches, public and private spaces. On 23 January[1], 17 March[2] and 7 April 2025[3], I warned of the massacres orchestrated or tolerated by the Islamist Jolani regime in Syria and called for specific EU action.

    Given the above, can the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy answer the following:

    • 1.Will a delegation of European officials, as well as a team of inspectors, go to Damascus on an exceptional basis to chronicle the attacks and atrocities that have taken place?
    • 2.Will there be an immediate review of the framework of cooperating with and lifting EU sanctions on the Government of Damascus?
    • 3.Will the Jolani regime be required to hold elections in a set timeframe?

    Submitted: 23.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-000295_EN.html
    • [2] https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=642935808482110&id=100082970882824&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=RXcoxKXUii42yf4D#
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001399_EN.html
    Last updated: 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Other events – Strengthening EU: Tackling Hybrid Threats, Preparedness & Gender-Based Violence – 02-06-2025 – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    In a series of recent joint committee meetings at the beginning of June, Members of LIBE, EUDS, SEDE, ENVI, and FEMM addressed a spectrum of pressing challenges, from the weaponisation of migration and emerging hybrid threats to the persistent violence of female genital mutilation (FGM) within the EU. Together, these discussions underscored a growing consensus: Europe must act with unity, foresight, and resilience to safeguard its citizens and values.

    On 2nd of June, LIBE and EUDS discussed how foreign actors are turning migration in a tool of hybrid warfare, with criminal networks exploiting digital platforms and crypto payments to evade detection. Frontex stressed the need for better intelligence-sharing to anticipate and counter such threats, while the Commission reaffirmed that measures taken must remain lawful and proportionate.

    Meeting in a joint session on 3rd of June SEDE, ENVI, and LIBE reviewed the new European Preparedness Union Strategy, which calls for a shared EU approach to risks ranging from cyberattacks to climate disasters. The strategy aims to embed preparedness across all policies, though Members called for clearer governance, adequate funding, and closer cooperation with neighbours.

    On 4th of June, Members of LIBE, FEMM and DEVE focused on female genital mutilation, which continues to affect around 600,000 women and girls in at least 16 EU countries. Experts urged the Commission to enforce existing laws and boost support for front-line efforts to end this form of gender-based violence.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Other events – Strengthening EU: Tackling Hybrid Threats, Preparedness & Gender-Based Violence – 02-06-2025 – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    In a series of recent joint committee meetings at the beginning of June, Members of LIBE, EUDS, SEDE, ENVI, and FEMM addressed a spectrum of pressing challenges, from the weaponisation of migration and emerging hybrid threats to the persistent violence of female genital mutilation (FGM) within the EU. Together, these discussions underscored a growing consensus: Europe must act with unity, foresight, and resilience to safeguard its citizens and values.

    On 2nd of June, LIBE and EUDS discussed how foreign actors are turning migration in a tool of hybrid warfare, with criminal networks exploiting digital platforms and crypto payments to evade detection. Frontex stressed the need for better intelligence-sharing to anticipate and counter such threats, while the Commission reaffirmed that measures taken must remain lawful and proportionate.

    Meeting in a joint session on 3rd of June SEDE, ENVI, and LIBE reviewed the new European Preparedness Union Strategy, which calls for a shared EU approach to risks ranging from cyberattacks to climate disasters. The strategy aims to embed preparedness across all policies, though Members called for clearer governance, adequate funding, and closer cooperation with neighbours.

    On 4th of June, Members of LIBE, FEMM and DEVE focused on female genital mutilation, which continues to affect around 600,000 women and girls in at least 16 EU countries. Experts urged the Commission to enforce existing laws and boost support for front-line efforts to end this form of gender-based violence.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the draft Council directive amending Directive 2006/112/EC as regards VAT rules relating to taxable persons who facilitate distance sales of imported goods and the application of the special scheme for distance sales of goods imported from third territories or third countries and special arrangements for declaration and payment of import VAT – A10-0119/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the draft Council directive amending Directive 2006/112/EC as regards VAT rules relating to taxable persons who facilitate distance sales of imported goods and the application of the special scheme for distance sales of goods imported from third territories or third countries and special arrangements for declaration and payment of import VAT

    (08710/2025 – C10‑0084/2025 – 2023/0158(CNS))

    (Special legislative procedure – renewed consultation)

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Council draft (08710/2025),

    – having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2023)0262),

    – having regard to its position of 22 November 2023[1],

    – having regard to Article 113 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union , pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament again (C10‑0084/2025),

    – having regard to Rule 84 and Rule 86 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (A10-0119/2025),

    1. Approves the Council draft;

    2. Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament;

    3. Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to amend its draft substantially;

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

    EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

    On 8 December 2022, the Commission presented the ‘VAT in the digital age’ package (ViDA), which consists of three proposals:

    • A proposal for a Council directive amending directive 2006/112/EC as regards VAT rules for the digital age;

    • A proposal for a Council regulation amending regulation (EU) No 904/2010 as regards the VAT administrative cooperation arrangements needed for the digital age;

    • A proposal for a Council implementing regulation amending implementing regulation (EU) No 282/2011 as regards information requirements for certain VAT schemes.

    The package developed an action plan that emphasized the need to reflect on how technology can be used in the fight against tax fraud and how the current VAT rules in the European Union could be adapted for doing business in the digital age. The three proposed changes to make VAT fit for the digital age are

    i) A new real time digital reporting system based on e-invoicing,

    ii) An update of the VAT rules for the platform economy and

    iii) A single VAT registration for businesses selling to consumers across the EU.

    The European Parliament was consulted and delivered its opinion on these legislative proposals on 22 November 2023. In January 2025, the Parliament was re-consulted on the draft Council directive amending Directive 2006/112/EC as regards VAT rules for the digital age. This re-consultation was linked to the deemed supplier regime which was a significant point of contention within the Council, making it particularly challenging to reach a final compromise (A10-0001/2025).

    The European Parliament is now consulted for the second time for the following reason.

    The original VIDA package contained a proposal to make the import one-stop-shop (IOSS) mandatory. However, Member States rejected it. The alternative proposal to motivate the use of IOSS by making suppliers and platforms liable for import VAT if they do not use the IOSS was not mature enough to be included in the VIDA package, which was adopted by Council in March 2025.

    In May 2023, the Commission issued a package of proposals to reform the Union Customs Code, notably to abolish the 150€ threshold for exemption of customs duties and VAT on import.

    In the summer of 2024, the provisions to incentivise the use of IOSS were added to the Commission proposals to reform the Union Customs Code in view of their relation with the customs rules. The Polish Presidency advocated splitting these provisions to incentivise the use of IOSS, considered as sufficiently mature, from the customs proposal and to agree on them separately. This was accepted by delegations.

    At the 13 May 2025 ECOFIN, the Council agreed to incorporate the provisions to incentivise the use of IOSS in the VAT Directive, which make suppliers and platforms liable for import VAT if they do not use the IOSS.

    In its opinion on 22 November 2023, the European Parliament advocated that the IOSSs should operate transparently and securely. Moreover, it also highlighted that a unified approach between the IOSS, on the one hand, and customs legislation and practice, on the other, would help bring an end to inconsistencies, errors and double taxation. Moreover, the European Parliament underlined the need to limit the administrative burden for SMEs. In addition, the European Parliament asked to assess the advantages and disadvantages of making IOSS mandatory.

    Therefore, in light of the above, the rapporteur is of the view that a simplified procedure without amendments is the relevant procedure for this re-consultation.

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    The rapporteur declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not receive input from any entity or person to be mentioned in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Amending Directive 2006/112/EC as regards VAT rules relating to taxable persons who facilitate distance sales of imported goods and the application of the special scheme for distance sales of goods imported from third territories or third countries and special arrangements for declaration and payment of import VAT

    References

    08710/2025 – C10-0084/2025 – COM(2023)0262 – C9-0174/2023 – 2023/0158(CNS)

    Date Parliament was consulted

    20.7.2023

     

     

     

    Committee(s) responsible

     Date announced in plenary

    ECON

    16.6.2025

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Ľudovít Ódor

    20.5.2025

     

     

     

    Simplified procedure – date of decision

    24.6.2025

    Discussed in committee

    24.6.2025

     

     

     

    Date adopted

    24.6.2025

     

     

     

    Date tabled

    27.6.2025

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Other events – Strengthening EU: Tackling Hybrid Threats, Preparedness & Gender-Based Violence – 02-06-2025 – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    In a series of recent joint committee meetings at the beginning of June, Members of LIBE, EUDS, SEDE, ENVI, and FEMM addressed a spectrum of pressing challenges, from the weaponisation of migration and emerging hybrid threats to the persistent violence of female genital mutilation (FGM) within the EU. Together, these discussions underscored a growing consensus: Europe must act with unity, foresight, and resilience to safeguard its citizens and values.

    On 2nd of June, LIBE and EUDS discussed how foreign actors are turning migration in a tool of hybrid warfare, with criminal networks exploiting digital platforms and crypto payments to evade detection. Frontex stressed the need for better intelligence-sharing to anticipate and counter such threats, while the Commission reaffirmed that measures taken must remain lawful and proportionate.

    Meeting in a joint session on 3rd of June SEDE, ENVI, and LIBE reviewed the new European Preparedness Union Strategy, which calls for a shared EU approach to risks ranging from cyberattacks to climate disasters. The strategy aims to embed preparedness across all policies, though Members called for clearer governance, adequate funding, and closer cooperation with neighbours.

    On 4th of June, Members of LIBE, FEMM and DEVE focused on female genital mutilation, which continues to affect around 600,000 women and girls in at least 16 EU countries. Experts urged the Commission to enforce existing laws and boost support for front-line efforts to end this form of gender-based violence.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Implementation of Italy’s NRRP and problems caused by delays – P-002482/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002482/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dario Nardella (S&D), Nicola Zingaretti (S&D), Stefano Bonaccini (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Giorgio Gori (S&D), Lucia Annunziata (S&D), Antonio Decaro (S&D), Annalisa Corrado (S&D), Camilla Laureti (S&D), Elisabetta Gualmini (S&D), Giuseppe Lupo (S&D), Pierfrancesco Maran (S&D), Alessandra Moretti (S&D), Pina Picierno (S&D), Matteo Ricci (S&D), Sandro Ruotolo (S&D), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Irene Tinagli (S&D), Marco Tarquinio (S&D), Raffaele Topo (S&D), Alessandro Zan (S&D)

    As the deadline approaches for Italy’s national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP), it is clear that many of the innovative investments and practices have produced good results. However, a number of the key measures have encountered problems, which require specific corrective measures in order to avoid a full-scale revision of the plan.

    The government, together with the Commission, is pinpointing solutions to ensure that the deadlines can be met. One strategy is to entrust management of the funds to entities such as ISMEA and GSE. This approach – already provided for in the 2023 revision – applies to financing worth EUR 10.6 billion. In the agri-food sector, 50 % of resources are expected to be under contract by 30 June 2025 and the rest by 2026, but most of the investments will materialise after the plan has ended. Another strategy provides for reporting of partially achieved objectives, with a proportional reduction in funding, to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. In addition, while the Commission is carrying out its assessment, that period of time can also be used to finalise the measures, even after the requests have been sent.

    It is important to take into account the link between the NRRP and the fiscal-structural plan: any delays could have a negative impact on the reforms and investments that have been planned.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What common challenges are coming to light in the various Member States in terms of implementation of the plans, and what support measures are envisaged?
    • 2.What actions and corrective measures will be taken to support Italy’s NRRP?
    • 3.What will happen to non-disbursed funds?

    Submitted: 20.6.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Implementation of Italy’s NRRP and problems caused by delays – P-002482/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002482/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dario Nardella (S&D), Nicola Zingaretti (S&D), Stefano Bonaccini (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Giorgio Gori (S&D), Lucia Annunziata (S&D), Antonio Decaro (S&D), Annalisa Corrado (S&D), Camilla Laureti (S&D), Elisabetta Gualmini (S&D), Giuseppe Lupo (S&D), Pierfrancesco Maran (S&D), Alessandra Moretti (S&D), Pina Picierno (S&D), Matteo Ricci (S&D), Sandro Ruotolo (S&D), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Irene Tinagli (S&D), Marco Tarquinio (S&D), Raffaele Topo (S&D), Alessandro Zan (S&D)

    As the deadline approaches for Italy’s national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP), it is clear that many of the innovative investments and practices have produced good results. However, a number of the key measures have encountered problems, which require specific corrective measures in order to avoid a full-scale revision of the plan.

    The government, together with the Commission, is pinpointing solutions to ensure that the deadlines can be met. One strategy is to entrust management of the funds to entities such as ISMEA and GSE. This approach – already provided for in the 2023 revision – applies to financing worth EUR 10.6 billion. In the agri-food sector, 50 % of resources are expected to be under contract by 30 June 2025 and the rest by 2026, but most of the investments will materialise after the plan has ended. Another strategy provides for reporting of partially achieved objectives, with a proportional reduction in funding, to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. In addition, while the Commission is carrying out its assessment, that period of time can also be used to finalise the measures, even after the requests have been sent.

    It is important to take into account the link between the NRRP and the fiscal-structural plan: any delays could have a negative impact on the reforms and investments that have been planned.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What common challenges are coming to light in the various Member States in terms of implementation of the plans, and what support measures are envisaged?
    • 2.What actions and corrective measures will be taken to support Italy’s NRRP?
    • 3.What will happen to non-disbursed funds?

    Submitted: 20.6.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Heads of Multilateral Development Banks commit to strong joint action on development priorities

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    The Heads of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) met today in Paris, hosted by the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB), which currently chairs the Heads of MDBs Group. The meeting focused on advancing their joint efforts to address  development priorities.

    Amid rising global uncertainty, the Heads reaffirmed their commitment to working as a system to deliver greater impact and scale, in line with their Viewpoint Note and the recommendations of the G20 Roadmap towards Better, Bigger, and More Effective MDBs.  The Roadmap outlines an ambitious vision for MDB reform to better address regional and global challenges, support job creation, and help countries achieve their development aspirations.

    The Heads welcomed ongoing efforts to improve the way MDBs work with clients through operational efficiency and enhanced coordination. In 2025 alone, five mutual reliance agreements  have been signed, helping streamline the preparation and implementation of  co-financed projects across institutions.

    Private capital mobilization remains a system-wide priority, with the last joint report of the MDBs reflecting a positive trend in volumes mobilized. To build on this momentum, the Heads reaffirmed their commitment to developing local currency lending and foreign exchange solutions. They also reaffirmed  the importance of adequate risk assessment for private sector investment in emerging markets and developing economies; in this context, the valuable contribution of disaggregated statistics on credit risk published through the Global Emerging Markets Risk Database (GEMs) was recognized.

    The Heads reiterated their continued commitment to implementing the recommendations of the G20 Independent Review of Multilateral Development Banks’ Capital Adequacy Frameworks (CAF).  Further reform efforts by MDBs since mid-2024 have increased the additional lending headroom for development projects in all countries of operation, including high-income ones, over the next decade by more than US$250 billion, thus reaching a total of over US$650 billion.

    The publication in the coming weeks of the Comparison Report by the MDBs’ Global Risk and Finance Forum (GRaFF) will provide metrics and data relating to MDBs’ financial positions, promoting a better understanding of their financial models and supporting both balance sheet optimization and private sector mobilization. 

    The Heads also agreed to continue advancing promising initiatives already underway to strengthen system-wide impact. These include: 1) Mission 300, which aims to connect 300 million people in Africa to electricity by 2030 through public and private collaboration;  2) Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Power Grid, which aims to boost energy security, strengthen resilience, and promote decarbonization for the region’s 670 million people by connecting its electricity systems; and 3) Digital Transformation in Education in Latin America and the Caribbean, which aims to connect 3.5 million students and train over 250,000 teachers. 

    In addition, MDBs are exploring joint actions to scale up investments in social infrastructure, including health, education, housing, and water and sanitation. Building on structured dialogue led by the CEB, the Heads welcomed progress made through recent cross-MDB consultations and recognized the key role these sectors play in enabling jobs, productivity, and inclusive growth, while noting persistent financing and delivery challenges that constrain impact.

    Meeting in advance of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), which will take place in Sevilla, Spain, from 30 June to 3 July, MDBs remain committed to working better as a system, in alignment with country-led development priorities and strategies to promote jobs and prosperity. In view of water’s role in human development, MDBs committed to significantly increasing collective support for global water security by 2030, and will launch the first “Joint Annual MDB Water Security Financing Report” at FfD4. Heads noted the importance of the upcoming COP30 in Belem, Brazil, in November 2025.

    Today’s meeting in Paris marks a significant step toward effective collaboration and scaled-up collective action for development priorities. MDB reforms are advancing, moving from concept to execution.

    With streamlined operations, better risk tools, and growing financial capacity, MDBs are delivering real impact – from expanding energy access and digital education to scaling investment in water security.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – European Parliamentary committees: their role and composition

    Source: European Parliament

    Committee meeting © European Union (2015) – European Parliament

    Parliament’s committees deal with EU legislative proposals by adopting reports, which then are referred to plenary for voting by all Members, and appoint negotiation teams to conduct talks with Council. They adopt non-legislative reports, organise hearings with experts and scrutinise other EU bodies and institutions. Parliament can set up sub-committees and special committees to deal with specific issues. Each committee elects a chair and up to four vice-chairs for a two and a half year mandate.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – European Parliamentary committees: their role and composition

    Source: European Parliament

    Committee meeting © European Union (2015) – European Parliament

    Parliament’s committees deal with EU legislative proposals by adopting reports, which then are referred to plenary for voting by all Members, and appoint negotiation teams to conduct talks with Council. They adopt non-legislative reports, organise hearings with experts and scrutinise other EU bodies and institutions. Parliament can set up sub-committees and special committees to deal with specific issues. Each committee elects a chair and up to four vice-chairs for a two and a half year mandate.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint Statement: Heads of Multilateral Development Banks commit to strong joint action on development priorities

    Source: European Investment Bank

    PARIS (28 June) – The Heads of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) met today in Paris, hosted by the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB), which currently chairs the Heads of MDBs Group. The meeting focused on advancing their joint efforts to address  development priorities.

    Amid rising global uncertainty, the Heads reaffirmed their commitment to working as a system to deliver greater impact and scale, in line with their Viewpoint Note and the recommendations of the G20 Roadmap towards Better, Bigger, and More Effective MDBs.  The Roadmap outlines an ambitious vision for MDB reform to better address regional and global challenges, support job creation, and help countries achieve their development aspirations.

    The Heads welcomed ongoing efforts to improve the way MDBs work with clients through operational efficiency and enhanced coordination. In 2025 alone, five mutual reliance agreements  have been signed, helping streamline the preparation and implementation of  co-financed projects across institutions.

    Private capital mobilization remains a system-wide priority, with the last joint report of the MDBs reflecting a positive trend in volumes mobilized. To build on this momentum, the Heads reaffirmed their commitment to developing local currency lending and foreign exchange solutions. They also reaffirmed  the importance of adequate risk assessment for private sector investment in emerging markets and developing economies; in this context, the valuable contribution of disaggregated statistics on credit risk published through the Global Emerging Markets Risk Database (GEMs) was recognized.

    The Heads reiterated their continued commitment to implementing the recommendations of the G20 Independent Review of Multilateral Development Banks’ Capital Adequacy Frameworks (CAF).  Further reform efforts by MDBs since mid-2024 have increased the additional lending headroom for development projects in all countries of operation, including high-income ones, over the next decade by more than US$250 billion, thus reaching a total of over US$650 billion.

    The publication in the coming weeks of the Comparison Report by the MDBs’ Global Risk and Finance Forum (GRaFF) will provide metrics and data relating to MDBs’ financial positions, promoting a better understanding of their financial models and supporting both balance sheet optimization and private sector mobilization. 

    The Heads also agreed to continue advancing promising initiatives already underway to strengthen system-wide impact. These include: 1) Mission 300, which aims to connect 300 million people in Africa to electricity by 2030 through public and private collaboration;  2) Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Power Grid, which aims to boost energy security, strengthen resilience, and promote decarbonization for the region’s 670 million people by connecting its electricity systems; and 3) Digital Transformation in Education in Latin America and the Caribbean, which aims to connect 3.5 million students and train over 250,000 teachers. 

    In addition, MDBs are exploring joint actions to scale up investments in social infrastructure, including health, education, housing, and water and sanitation. Building on structured dialogue led by the CEB, the Heads welcomed progress made through recent cross-MDB consultations and recognized the key role these sectors play in enabling jobs, productivity, and inclusive growth, while noting persistent financing and delivery challenges that constrain impact.

    Meeting in advance of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), which will take place in Sevilla, Spain, from 30 June to 3 July, MDBs remain committed to working better as a system, in alignment with country-led development priorities and strategies to promote jobs and prosperity. In view of water’s role in human development, MDBs committed to significantly increasing collective support for global water security by 2030, and will launch the first “Joint Annual MDB Water Security Financing Report” at FfD4. Heads noted the importance of the upcoming COP30 in Belem, Brazil, in November 2025.

    Today’s meeting in Paris marks a significant step toward effective collaboration and scaled-up collective action for development priorities. MDB reforms are advancing, moving from concept to execution.

    With streamlined operations, better risk tools, and growing financial capacity, MDBs are delivering real impact – from expanding energy access and digital education to scaling investment in water security.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Technology transfer with business incubators: Start-up companies take off here

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    For years, start-ups have been able to count on the support of the business incubators glatec and Startfeld. They accompany Empa’s young companies on their path to independence – and do so extremely successfully, as the 37 spin-offs founded to date show.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CHF 18 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2023, business enterprises invested CHF 18 billion in their R&D activities in Switzerland, an annual increase of 3.5% over 2021, which was the last time the survey was carried out. At almost CHF 5.5 billion, the ‘pharmaceuticals’ sector remains the biggest investor, despite an average annual decline of 6%. Nearly 69 000 people took part in R&D activities, a quarter of them women. These are the main results of a study carried out by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) in partnership with economiesuisse.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CHF 18 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2023, business enterprises invested CHF 18 billion in their R&D activities in Switzerland, an annual increase of 3.5% over 2021, which was the last time the survey was carried out. At almost CHF 5.5 billion, the ‘pharmaceuticals’ sector remains the biggest investor, despite an average annual decline of 6%. Nearly 69 000 people took part in R&D activities, a quarter of them women. These are the main results of a study carried out by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) in partnership with economiesuisse.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CHF 18 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2023, business enterprises invested CHF 18 billion in their R&D activities in Switzerland, an annual increase of 3.5% over 2021, which was the last time the survey was carried out. At almost CHF 5.5 billion, the ‘pharmaceuticals’ sector remains the biggest investor, despite an average annual decline of 6%. Nearly 69 000 people took part in R&D activities, a quarter of them women. These are the main results of a study carried out by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) in partnership with economiesuisse.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CHF 18 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2023, business enterprises invested CHF 18 billion in their R&D activities in Switzerland, an annual increase of 3.5% over 2021, which was the last time the survey was carried out. At almost CHF 5.5 billion, the ‘pharmaceuticals’ sector remains the biggest investor, despite an average annual decline of 6%. Nearly 69 000 people took part in R&D activities, a quarter of them women. These are the main results of a study carried out by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) in partnership with economiesuisse.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CHF 18 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2023, business enterprises invested CHF 18 billion in their R&D activities in Switzerland, an annual increase of 3.5% over 2021, which was the last time the survey was carried out. At almost CHF 5.5 billion, the ‘pharmaceuticals’ sector remains the biggest investor, despite an average annual decline of 6%. Nearly 69 000 people took part in R&D activities, a quarter of them women. These are the main results of a study carried out by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) in partnership with economiesuisse.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CHF 18 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2023, business enterprises invested CHF 18 billion in their R&D activities in Switzerland, an annual increase of 3.5% over 2021, which was the last time the survey was carried out. At almost CHF 5.5 billion, the ‘pharmaceuticals’ sector remains the biggest investor, despite an average annual decline of 6%. Nearly 69 000 people took part in R&D activities, a quarter of them women. These are the main results of a study carried out by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) in partnership with economiesuisse.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CHF 18 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2023, business enterprises invested CHF 18 billion in their R&D activities in Switzerland, an annual increase of 3.5% over 2021, which was the last time the survey was carried out. At almost CHF 5.5 billion, the ‘pharmaceuticals’ sector remains the biggest investor, despite an average annual decline of 6%. Nearly 69 000 people took part in R&D activities, a quarter of them women. These are the main results of a study carried out by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) in partnership with economiesuisse.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mum and best friend of rip current victim Joe Abbess share their grief and safety hopes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Mum and best friend of rip current victim Joe Abbess share their grief and safety hopes

    The mother and best friend of a much-loved teenager who drowned in a fierce rip current at Bournemouth beach more than two years ago have spoken up to help people enjoy the coast safely this summer.

    Joe Green and Vanessa Abbess (Photo: Maritime and Coastguard Agency)

    Joe Abbess (17), a popular trainee chef and regular gym-goer, was in the water up to his waist during a trip to the seaside town with friends on 31 May 2023 when conditions suddenly changed. 

    As the summer season gets into full swing, Vanessa Abbess has joined with her late son’s best friend, Joe Green (19), and HM Coastguard to make a difference in his memory. 

    Vanessa said:

    Joe was incredibly loved by his family and friends, and I feel it is so important to tell his story. He was being so sensible and safe. He was healthy. He was strong. He could swim.  

    It is so shocking that Joe died and shows you’re never entirely safe in the sea – but there are ways to reduce the risk, which we want everyone to know.

    Joe Green was at the beach with Joe and other friends on the day of the tragedy. He and Vanessa are sharing how the loss still affects their lives as well as some easy-to-remember advice to enjoy the sea safely this summer. 

    See Vanessa and Joe speak on the MCA’s YouTube channel here: Mum and best friend of rip current victim Joe Abbess share their grief and safety hopes – YouTube 

    A 12-year-old girl also died that day in a separate group hit by the same rip current. Eight others were rescued. 

    Rip currents are powerful movements of water, not always related to the tide, that can drag even strong people off their feet, under the surface or out to sea. 

    Vanessa and Joe’s safety tips: 

    • Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the flags 

    • Go into the sea with a buddy 

    • In a rip current, don’t struggle and exhaust yourself. Instead Float to Live: float with your head back and ears submerged 

    • If you see an emergency by the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard 

    Vanessa, from Southampton, said:

    Even two years on, the world doesn’t feel quite right because there’s a great big Joe-shaped hole in our lives. Joe is, and will always be, loved and very missed every day. 

    We live on an island; people should know the dangers. You wouldn’t cross the road without thinking about it – don’t enter the sea without thinking about it. You need to think, what could happen? What do I do in an emergency? 

    Joe was a very caring young man – he would want people to know what happened that tragic day. And if by telling his story I can prevent this heartbreak happening to another family, that has got to be a benefit, in a strange way, because it’s absolutely awful to lose somebody you love like this.

    Joe Green, also from Southampton, added:

    It 100% has affected my life. I mean, you just never think this would happen to your best friend. 

    I miss him loads. Somehow after more than two years, it still doesn’t feel real. It still feels like he’s going to come into my life whenever I turn a corner. 

    I think he’d be very proud. I think he’d be very happy that I’m doing this for him, and his mum is doing this for him, because we just want to get the message across that this can happen to anyone.

    For guidance on staying safe by the coast, visit: https://hmcoastguard.uk/safety-advice 

    HM Coastguard Divisional Commander James Instance said:

    Vanessa and Joe have shown real bravery in reliving their loss to highlight hidden risks at the beach and how you can stay safe. 

    As we approach the summer holidays and our seaside gets busier, it’s a perfect time to remind everyone of a few simple tips to ensure your fun trip ends with good memories.

    Editor’s notes: 

    Vanessa Abbess is available for remote or in-person media interview in Southampton on Wednesday 2 July, 10am-4pm. Requests via public.relations@mcga.gov.uk  

    HM Coastguard Coastal Operations Area Commander Mike Buratti is available for remote media interview to give coastal safety advice from 1pm-4pm on Monday 30 June, Tuesday 1 July, Wednesday 2 July and Friday 4 July; and 10-12 on Thursday 3 July. Requests via public.relations@mcga.gov.uk 

    Photos must be credited to Vanessa Abbess, Joe Green or the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, as indicated.

    Press office

    Email public.relations@mcga.gov.uk

    Press enquiries (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) 0203 817 2222

    Outside these hours or on bank holidays and weekends, for media enquiries ONLY, please send an email outlining your query and putting #Urgent in the subject title.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Australia Strategic Dialogue on Gender Equality: joint statement, May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK-Australia Strategic Dialogue on Gender Equality: joint statement, May 2025

    The governments of Australia and the United Kingdom gave a joint statement following the second UK-Australia Strategic Dialogue on Gender Equality on 22 May 2025.

    Joint statement:

    In the face of increasing contestation and the rollback of hard-won progress, we reaffirm our commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

    We are deeply concerned about escalating attempts to reverse global progress on gender equality, including sexual and reproductive health and rights. We are at a critical moment, where we must coordinate with partners across the globe to continue progress on gender equality. Such efforts are vital to protect the fundamental human rights of all women and girls, everywhere.

    The erosion of gender equality and human rights undermines peace and security, and sustainable development. To accelerate progress, we need a strong multilateral system. The UN80 process is crucial to this, and we encourage ambitious, coordinated and transparent reform to ensure the UN system can deliver a progressive vision for all women and girls. Furthermore, enhanced collaboration is needed at the nexus between gender equality, humanitarian action, and climate change.

    We are jointly committed to continued collaboration on gender equality in the Indo-Pacific. We will continue to prioritise, protect and promote sexual and reproductive health and rights and the elimination of gender-based violence, including through the implementation of our joint Memorandum of Understanding on Gender-Based Violence. We will continue pursuing effective strategies for ending gender-based violence, including technology-facilitated gender-based violence, and countering rollback, including through joint learning and regional dialogues. We will also continue integrating violence prevention into our work to address climate change.

    We remain committed to the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. Core to the effective implementation of the WPS agenda are national and regional action plans and promoting women’s leadership to address contemporary challenges. We acknowledged this when discussing joint opportunities to mark the WPS agenda’s 25th anniversary at Ministerial level in 2025.

    Women’s rights organisations play a vital role in protecting and promoting gender equality. We reaffirmed our commitment to exploring innovative ways to bolster and support grassroots movements, including through increased advocacy in regional and multilateral fora and joint events.

    In this challenging environment, continued collaboration between the UK and Australia is vital. We urge everyone to stand with us to uphold gender equality, human rights, and democracy; all essential for a stronger, safer world.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proposed merger of School Nursery Classes at Caol Primary and St. Columba’s Roman Catholic Primary.

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    On 26 June, The Highland Council took the decision to merge the school nurseries at Caol Primary School and St. Columba’s Roman Catholic Primary School.

    All such decisions must be ratified by Scottish Ministers. The Council has notified Scottish Ministers of its decision. They have an 8-week period from the date of the Council’s decision to decide if they will intervene by issuing a call-in notice. Within the first 3 weeks of that 8-week period, they will take account of any relevant representations made to them by any person on whether the decision should be called in, or not called in, for review by a School Closure Review Panel. 

    Anyone wishing to make a representation to the Scottish Ministers is asked to email schoolclosure@gov.scot or write to the School Infrastructure Unit, Scottish Government, 2-D (S) Victoria Quay, Edinburgh EH6 6QQ, by midnight on Wednesday 16 July 2025 at the latest.

    Full details of the reasons for the recommendation are contained within the final report and associated papers, which can be accessed on the Council’s website.

    30 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council launches new electrical reuse facility at Nairn Recycling Centre

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council has launched a new facility at the Nairn Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), enabling householders to donate working electrical and electronic items for reuse.

    Residents can now bring old, unused, or unwanted items such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, toasters, air fryers, and TVs to the Nairn HWRC, provided they are still in good working order.

    These items will be collected by ILM Highland, a social enterprise based in Alness that specialises in electrical recycling. ILM Highland will test and clean the donated items before offering them for sale in their retail shop and online. Proceeds from these sales support ILM’s home improvement services, which assist some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

    This initiative is supported by a £135,000 grant from the Scottish Government’s Recycling Improvement Fund (Small Grant Scheme), awarded to The Highland Council and ILM Highland to promote circular economy practices for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) across the region.

    Councillor Graham MacKenzie, Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, said: “This new reuse facility is the first of its kind in Scotland, and I am grateful for the funding from the Scottish Government’s Small Grants Fund, which has enabled the Council and our partner ILM Highland to deliver this valuable new service. Increasing opportunities for the public in Highland to donate unwanted tech items for reuse is hugely important. It helps reduce carbon emissions, preserve precious metals, and create jobs—contributing to the growing circular economy for electrical devices.”

    Martin MacLeod, CEO at ILM Highland, said: “We’re proud to be working in partnership with The Highland Council to launch this new reuse facility in Nairn. At ILM Highland, we’re passionate about extending the life of electrical items and reducing unnecessary waste. By giving residents a convenient way to donate working appliances and tech, we can divert valuable resources from landfill and make them available to households who need them most. Every item reused helps to support our wider mission of tackling digital exclusion and delivering essential home improvement services across the Highlands. It’s a win for people, the planet, and the local community.”

    David Gunn, Manager (Recycling Improvement Fund) Operations at Zero Waste Scotland, said: “It’s fantastic to see recycling and reuse being made more accessible to rural communities through this new service. By supporting households across the Highlands to recycle their electrical items, whether broken or in working order, this initiative is not only helping to reduce waste but also playing a vital role in Scotland’s journey towards a more circular economy.”

    In addition to the Nairn facility, the funding will support the introduction of reuse facilities at three other Household Waste Recycling Centres in the coming months. These sites will allow for the separation and collection of domestic appliances suitable for reuse.

    The grant also covers the purchase of a new van for ILM Highland, which is being used to provide monthly waste electrical and electronic equipment collections in communities with limited access to recycling centres—further boosting recycling and reuse efforts across the region.

    Before donating smart devices, householders are advised to:

    1. Back up your data – Save photos, contacts, and documents to the cloud, a personal computer, or an external drive.
    2. Delete personal data – Wipe all data and remove SIM or memory cards.
    3. Reset the device – Log out of all accounts and restore the device to factory settings.

    For opening hours and more information about the Nairn HWRC, please visit https://bit.ly/nairnhwrc  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Israel steps up Gaza bombardment ahead of White House talks on ceasefire

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Palestinians in northern Gaza reported one of the worst nights of Israeli bombardment in weeks after the military issued mass evacuation orders on Monday, while Israeli officials were due in Washington for a new ceasefire push by the Trump administration.

    A day after U.S. President Donald Trump urged an end to the 20-month-old war, a confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected at the White House for talks on a Gaza ceasefire, Iran, and possible wider regional diplomatic deals.

    But on the ground in the Palestinian enclave there was no sign of fighting letting up.

    “Explosions never stopped; they bombed schools and homes. It felt like earthquakes,” said Salah, 60, a father of five children, from Gaza City. “In the news we hear a ceasefire is near, on the ground we see death and we hear explosions.”

    Israeli tanks pushed into the eastern areas of Zeitoun suburb in Gaza City and shelled several areas in the north, while aircraft bombed at least four schools after ordering hundreds of families sheltering inside to leave, residents said.

    At least 25 people were killed in Israeli strikes on Monday, health authorities said, including 10 people killed in Zeitoun.

    There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military, which says Palestinian militants embed among civilians. The militant groups deny this.

    The heavy bombardment followed new evacuation orders to vast areas in the north, where Israeli forces had operated before and left behind wide-scale destruction. The military ordered people there to head south, saying that it planned to fight Hamas militants operating in northern Gaza, including in the heart of Gaza City.

    NEXT STEPS

    A day after Trump called to “Make the deal in Gaza, get the hostages back”, Israel’s strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer, a confidant of Netanyahu’s, was expected on Monday at the White House for talks on Iran and Gaza, an Israeli official said.

    In Israel, Netanyahu’s security cabinet was expected to convene to discuss the next steps in Gaza.

    On Friday, Israel’s military chief said the present ground operation was close to having achieved its goals, and on Sunday, Netanyahu said new opportunities had opened up for recovering the hostages, 20 of whom are believed to still be alive.

    Palestinian and Egyptian sources with knowledge of the latest ceasefire efforts said that mediators Qatar and Egypt have stepped up their contacts with the two warring sides, but that no date has been set yet for a new round of truce talks.

    A Hamas official said that progress depends on Israel changing its position and agreeing to end the war and withdraw from Gaza. Israel says it can end the war only when Hamas is disarmed and dismantled. Hamas refuses to lay down its arms.

    The war began when Hamas fighters stormed in to Israel on October 7 2023, killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took 251 hostages back to Gaza in a surprise attack that led to Israel’s single deadliest day.

    Israel’s subsequent military assault has killed more than 56,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to the Gaza health ministry, has displaced almost the entire 2.3 million population and plunged the enclave into a humanitarian crisis.

    More than 80% of the territory is now an Israeli-militarized zone or under displacement orders, according to the United Nations.

    (Reuters)

  • President Murmu urges focus on ‘One Health’, animal welfare at IVRI convocation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Droupadi Murmu on Monday highlighted the growing significance of the ‘One Health’ approach while addressing the convocation ceremony at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly. She called for greater emphasis on animal welfare, sustainable practices, and the role of veterinary science in safeguarding public health.

    “Our culture, rooted in the idea of Ishavasyam Idam Sarvam, teaches us to see the divine in every living being,” Murmu said, adding that the Indian tradition of gods and sages communicating with animals reflects this belief.

    Highlighting concerns over biodiversity loss, the president said, “Many species have either become extinct or are on the verge of extinction. Their conservation is crucial not just for nature but for the health of the Earth.” Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, she warned that an unchecked consumption-driven model could have devastating effects on both the environment and public health.

    Murmu also emphasised that the ‘One Health’ paradigm—which links human, animal, and environmental health—is gaining traction globally. “Institutes like IVRI can play a key role in preventing and controlling zoonotic diseases,” she said.

    The president further underlined the transformative potential of technology in veterinary science. From genome editing and embryo transfer to AI and big data analytics, she said such tools can revolutionise animal care in India. Murmu encouraged the development of indigenous, low-cost treatments and nutritional solutions for animals, and the reduction of medicines with harmful side effects.

    Praising students for dedicating themselves to the care of animals, she advised them to remain guided by the welfare of the voiceless in moments of doubt. “Think of those innocent beings—you will find your path,” Murmu said.

    Calling on young professionals to become entrepreneurs in animal science, the president said such initiatives could not only support livelihoods but also contribute to the national economy.

    Murmu also lauded IVRI’s role in advancing veterinary research and education, and expressed hope that its graduates would lead the way in building a compassionate, science-driven future.