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Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor to meet G20 finance ministers in South Africa

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Chancellor to meet G20 finance ministers in South Africa

    At the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in South Africa the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, will make the case for defence investment, declaring that it’s the “bedrock of economic growth”.

    • Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, touches down in South Africa for the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting today, 26 February.
    • At the meeting Rachel Reeves will make clear that a strong defence is the “bedrock of economic growth” and make the case for “free and fair trade.”
    • Follows the PM’s commitment to boost the UK’s defence spending by £13.4 billion to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and the British Government’s steadfast support for the people of Ukraine.

    Following the PM’s announcement yesterday, the Chancellor will state that in a dangerous world the UK will not shy away from bolstering defence spending and will set out our ambition to raise UK defence spending further to 3% by the next parliament, subject to economic and fiscal conditions. 

    Protecting national security to protect the economy will also be a key message that the Chancellor will set out on the global stage today as she attends the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in Cape Town, South Africa. 

    The UK is already the third largest defence spender in NATO in cash terms, and this government has already boosted defence spending by almost £3 billion at the Autumn Budget. 

    The Chancellor will also reaffirm our commitment to European defence and encourage other European allies at the G20 to boost their defence spending in line with the UK in response to the security threats we face.   

    She will also discuss the possibilities for like-minded countries to mobilise private finance to maximise our financial resources for defence.

    The government’s commitment to invest in defence will protect UK citizens from threats at home but will also create a secure and stable environment in which businesses can thrive, supporting the Government’s number one mission to deliver economic growth.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said: 

    It’s clear we are facing a more dangerous world, and I will not hide from this reality. This is the moment for us all to step up – and together with our European partners we will go further and faster on defence. 

    National security will always be the first responsibility of this government and is the bedrock economic growth. Through intelligent investment, relentless reform, and free and fair trade – the most reliable driver of global growth – we can deliver sustainable growth that puts more money into the pockets of working people. 

    The Chancellor is also expected to set out that she is a champion of free and fair-trade and, will continue to make the case for openness in a series of bilateral meetings with G20 finance ministers. 

    While in Cape Town the Chancellor will engage with best-in-class British firms in South Africa and visit Cape Town’s historic V&A Waterfront. The Chancellor is expected to welcome British companies including consultancy Turner & Townsend and engineering firm Arup winning new contracts to play a role in the site’s expansion, showcasing UK expertise in designing, planning, and building infrastructure around the world.  

    The Chancellor will also meet influential businesses and investors in South Africa, such as representatives from Old Mutual Limited, the Foschini Group, and Absa, at a private reception at the High Commissioner’s residence, where she will deliver a keynote speech highlighting growth and investment opportunities in the UK.

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    Published 26 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Europe, Ukraine, multilateralism, BRICS: Federal Council approves Foreign Policy Report 2024

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Council in English

    On 26 February 2025, the Federal Council approved the Foreign Policy Report 2024. The report sets out the progress that has been made in achieving the 28 objectives of the Foreign Policy Strategy 2024–27. A special thematic focus section examines the influence of the BRICS group of states (including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) on the world order and outlines Switzerland’s strategy for relations with those states.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS revs up city’s trade engine

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan said today that the Government will strive to bolster Hong Kong’s status as an international trade centre, supply chain management centre, and transportation and logistics hub.

    In his 2025-26 Budget speech, he said efforts will be made to expand the city’s trade network, reinforce its connectivity and attract more inward investment, while also strengthening support for local enterprises.

    As regards Hong Kong’s supply chain management capabilities, Mr Chan iterated that the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and InvestHK jointly provide assistance to Mainland enterprises in using Hong Kong as a base to manage their offshore trading and supply chain activities.

    In terms of trade financing, he said the Trade Financing Liquidity Facility recently introduced by Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the People’s Bank of China provides greater flexibility for RMB financing. In addition, the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation offers credit insurance to support enterprises seeking to go global.

    Mr Chan said the Government is considering making legislative amendments to facilitate digitalisation of trade documents, and will submit proposals to the Legislative Council next year.

    In efforts to expand Hong Kong’s trade network and attract more inward investment, the Financial Secretary said the Government is liaising with the governments of Malaysia and Saudi Arabia with a view to establishing Economic & Trade Offices in those countries. In addition, InvestHK has established consultant offices in Egypt and Türkiye, while the HKTDC has set up a consultant office in Cambodia.

    Moreover, the Government is exploring investment agreements with Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Egypt and Peru, and is conducting negotiations with 17 countries on establishing Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements.

    Mr Chan outlined that Hong Kong will continue to cultivate markets in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Middle East, besides exploring opportunities in Central Asia, South Asia and North Africa. With regard to the Belt & Road (B&R) Initiative, he added that the HKTDC will strengthen project matching, particularly in relation to green development and innovation and technology (I&T).

    Meanwhile, to support the development of local enterprises and help them to go global, the finance chief said the Government will inject a total of $1.5 billion into two funds: the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales and the Export Marketing and Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund. Application arrangements will also be streamlined.

    In terms of support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Mr Chan also highlighted that numerous banks have joined the Taskforce on SME Lending jointly established by the HKMA and the Hong Kong Association of Banks. He said that the funds dedicated for SME financing in the participating banks’ loan portfolios recently increased to over $390 billion.

    In collaboration with large-scale e-commerce platforms, the HKTDC will also launch “E-Commerce Express”, in order to provide Hong Kong enterprises with one-to-one consultation services and thematic seminars. In addition, it will enhance the mentorship scheme it operates in collaboration with the Trade & Industry Department, and will organise a second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival.

    Turning to Hong Kong’s maritime industry, Mr Chan said the Government will adopt an “innovative spirit” with regard to its development.

    He revealed that a Hong Kong Maritime & Port Development Board will be established this year to support research, industry promotion and manpower training. In addition, he said a half-rate tax concession for eligible commodity traders will be introduced.

    With regard to logistics development, the finance chief said the Government has initiated a study on developing modern logistics sites in the Northern Metropolis and expects that its findings will be announced this year.

    Meanwhile, with a view to developing a smart port, $215 million has been allocated to installing a port community system that will encourage the flow of data among stakeholders in the maritime, port and logistics industries. 

    In relation to the Government’s plans to bolster Hong Kong’s reputation as an international aviation hub, Mr Chan said the Three-Runway System at Hong Kong International Airport was commissioned at the end of last year and that related passenger facilities will become operational in phases from the end of this year.

    He also highlighted that the Airport Authority (AA) recently promulgated a development plan for the expansion of Airport City, and revealed that the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy will expand its training programmes to cover C919 aircraft following their official deployment in scheduled flights between Hong Kong and Shanghai in January.

    Mr Chan added that the AA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a leading overseas professional aeronautic services company to explore the possibility of providing professional services such as aircraft dismantling, parts recycling and related training in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA and MOHW jointly form Taiwan public healthcare team to boost export of smart medical care

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    February 14, 2025  

    No. 039  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung and Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-yuan convened a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on February 14. A decision was made to form a cross-ministerial consultation task force and to invite medical institutions, healthcare businesses, industrial associations, and other experts that often participate in international cooperation projects to organize a Taiwan public healthcare team in conjunction with staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW). By integrating public and private sector resources and harnessing the spirit of integrated diplomacy, the team will jointly implement a flagship initiative on smart medicine and healthcare as part of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, deepening Taiwan’s public health and medical cooperation with allies and other friendly countries.

     

    As the first leader of Taiwan to hail from the field of medicine, President Lai Ching-te has drawn on his medical expertise and background to commit to growing Taiwan’s leading status in global healthcare. During his 2024 tour of the South Pacific, entitled “Smart and Sustainable Development for a Prosperous Austronesian Region,” President Lai bolstered cooperation with other countries through medical diplomacy, highlighting Taiwan’s contributions to global healthcare development.

     

    Minister Lin and Minister Chiu expressed their hope of leveraging Taiwan’s competitiveness in public health and medical care to further enhance partnerships with diplomatic allies and other friendly countries. This would involve combining the strengths that Taiwan had developed in biotechnology, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and ICT over the years under the Five Plus Two Innovative Industries and Six Core Strategic Industries programs implemented by former President Tsai Ing-wen. The ministers said they wanted the healthy Taiwan envisioned by President Lai to benefit the world while also assisting related Taiwanese industries to expand into overseas markets.

     

    Minister Lin invited Minister Chiu and MOHW staff to attend today’s meeting at MOFA to discuss ways of sharing Taiwan’s public health experience and smart medical solutions with allies and other friendly countries through a smart healthcare cooperation program. Both parties agreed that human resources, technology, and capital should serve together as the three pillars for expediting the export of comprehensive smart medical care and health systems. They said that this would effectively assist allies in increasing healthcare capacity, as well as raise the efficiency of public health management, enhance people’s well-being, and advance local prosperity. They also said that by employing a model that uses medicine to steer a path for industry, they looked forward to helping create business opportunities for Taiwan’s smart healthcare sector and promoting further development in the global healthcare industry.

     

    In addition, the ministers reviewed the highlights and successful results of Taiwan’s public health and medical care cooperation projects. One example was an initiative to enhance Paraguay’s health information management system, which had successfully laid the foundation for healthcare digitalization and would continue to be optimized and serve as a demonstration point for Taiwan’s smart healthcare projects in South America. Elsewhere, they said, a smart healthcare collaboration project between Taiwan and Belau National Hospital in Palau would continue to expand so as to increase Palau’s public health capacity. Views were also exchanged as to strengthening business participation mechanisms and improving the outcome of Taiwan’s joint endeavors with Guatemala, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Eswatini, and other allies.

     

    During the meeting, Minister Lin pointed out that Taiwan’s medical assistance to allies could also benefit Taiwanese people. Citing his delegation’s involvement in a car accident that took place during his recent trip to Palau as President Lai’s special envoy, Minister Lin said that injured MOFA colleagues had been able to receive timely professional care and return safely to Taiwan due to the medical services provided in Palau by Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital. He said this amply demonstrated the common good and value inherent in international medical cooperation.

     

    In the future, MOFA and the MOHW will continue to work hand in hand with partners worldwide to deepen healthcare cooperation and make greater contributions to global public health and smart healthcare development based on the vision of a healthy Taiwan. They will also take joint steps to expand the presence of related Taiwanese industries in the international market and transform Taiwan into an economy on which the sun never sets. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA and MOHW jointly form Taiwan public healthcare team to boost export of smart medical care

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan 3

    February 14, 2025  
    No. 039  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung and Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-yuan convened a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on February 14. A decision was made to form a cross-ministerial consultation task force and to invite medical institutions, healthcare businesses, industrial associations, and other experts that often participate in international cooperation projects to organize a Taiwan public healthcare team in conjunction with staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW). By integrating public and private sector resources and harnessing the spirit of integrated diplomacy, the team will jointly implement a flagship initiative on smart medicine and healthcare as part of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, deepening Taiwan’s public health and medical cooperation with allies and other friendly countries.
     
    As the first leader of Taiwan to hail from the field of medicine, President Lai Ching-te has drawn on his medical expertise and background to commit to growing Taiwan’s leading status in global healthcare. During his 2024 tour of the South Pacific, entitled “Smart and Sustainable Development for a Prosperous Austronesian Region,” President Lai bolstered cooperation with other countries through medical diplomacy, highlighting Taiwan’s contributions to global healthcare development.
     
    Minister Lin and Minister Chiu expressed their hope of leveraging Taiwan’s competitiveness in public health and medical care to further enhance partnerships with diplomatic allies and other friendly countries. This would involve combining the strengths that Taiwan had developed in biotechnology, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and ICT over the years under the Five Plus Two Innovative Industries and Six Core Strategic Industries programs implemented by former President Tsai Ing-wen. The ministers said they wanted the healthy Taiwan envisioned by President Lai to benefit the world while also assisting related Taiwanese industries to expand into overseas markets.
     
    Minister Lin invited Minister Chiu and MOHW staff to attend today’s meeting at MOFA to discuss ways of sharing Taiwan’s public health experience and smart medical solutions with allies and other friendly countries through a smart healthcare cooperation program. Both parties agreed that human resources, technology, and capital should serve together as the three pillars for expediting the export of comprehensive smart medical care and health systems. They said that this would effectively assist allies in increasing healthcare capacity, as well as raise the efficiency of public health management, enhance people’s well-being, and advance local prosperity. They also said that by employing a model that uses medicine to steer a path for industry, they looked forward to helping create business opportunities for Taiwan’s smart healthcare sector and promoting further development in the global healthcare industry.
     
    In addition, the ministers reviewed the highlights and successful results of Taiwan’s public health and medical care cooperation projects. One example was an initiative to enhance Paraguay’s health information management system, which had successfully laid the foundation for healthcare digitalization and would continue to be optimized and serve as a demonstration point for Taiwan’s smart healthcare projects in South America. Elsewhere, they said, a smart healthcare collaboration project between Taiwan and Belau National Hospital in Palau would continue to expand so as to increase Palau’s public health capacity. Views were also exchanged as to strengthening business participation mechanisms and improving the outcome of Taiwan’s joint endeavors with Guatemala, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Eswatini, and other allies.
     
    During the meeting, Minister Lin pointed out that Taiwan’s medical assistance to allies could also benefit Taiwanese people. Citing his delegation’s involvement in a car accident that took place during his recent trip to Palau as President Lai’s special envoy, Minister Lin said that injured MOFA colleagues had been able to receive timely professional care and return safely to Taiwan due to the medical services provided in Palau by Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital. He said this amply demonstrated the common good and value inherent in international medical cooperation.
     
    In the future, MOFA and the MOHW will continue to work hand in hand with partners worldwide to deepen healthcare cooperation and make greater contributions to global public health and smart healthcare development based on the vision of a healthy Taiwan. They will also take joint steps to expand the presence of related Taiwanese industries in the international market and transform Taiwan into an economy on which the sun never sets. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: 15 million South Africans don’t get enough to eat every day: 4 solutions

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Stephen Devereux, Research Fellow, Institute of Development Studies

    At least 15 million South Africans suffer from food insecurity. That means they don’t have enough nutritious food to live healthy lives.

    This is due to a combination of factors, including unemployment, poverty, inequality and food system failures.

    More than 1,000 children die from malnutrition each year. This compares unfavourably with 350 child deaths from malnutrition in Brazil, which has more than three times South Africa’s population, and 269 child deaths in Colombia, which has about the same per capita income as South Africa.

    A robust indicator of chronic hunger is child stunting. Stunting in South Africa has flatlined at around 25%, or one in four children, since the early 1990s. Other middle-income countries such as Brazil and Peru have made impressive progress. Peru halved its rate from 28% in 2008 to 13% in 2016, after the president committed to reducing stunting.

    Read more: South Africa’s hunger problem is turning into a major health crisis

    How can South Africa’s government deliver on the right to food and begin the urgent process of eradicating hunger?

    We have worked on food security and food justice for many years. We’ve researched the links between social protection and hunger and between food systems and nutrition, and the cost of hunger.

    Based on this experience, our view is that food shortages are not a cause of hunger in South Africa. The country produces and imports all the food it needs. Instead, the problem is unequal access to food. While some South Africans live in a world of abundance, with no budget constraints, millions more survive below the food poverty line, unable to afford even a basic nutritious diet for their families.

    We believe that the government must deliver on the constitutional right to food and begin the urgent process of eradicating hunger. It can do this by expanding the social grant system, extending the school nutrition programme, reducing food waste, and ensuring access to land for low-income rural and peri-urban households.

    Above all, a coherent and coordinated strategy for tackling hunger is needed, led by a minister of food, following models like Brazil’s Zero Hunger initiative. In December 2024, Brazil handed over the G20 presidency to South Africa, after it launched the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. South Africa should embrace the embrace the spirit and focus of the alliance to develop its own Zero Hunger strategy.

    Four steps to end hunger

    The South African government pays out 19 million social grants a month, or 26 million if the 9 million recipients of the special social relief of distress grant are included. Without these cash transfers, poverty and malnutrition in the country would be even higher. But they are inadequate, especially in a context of high and rising food prices.

    Read more: South Africa’s fight against extreme poverty needs a new strategy – model shows how social grants could work

    Pregnant women must receive a maternal grant. Shutterstock

    Firstly, the following changes should be made to social grant payments.

    • An immediate increase in the child support grant, followed by further increases. The goal should be to get this grant, which is currently below the food poverty line at R530 a month (US$28), to R1,634 (US$34). This is the minimum amount of money needed to meet basic needs, including nutritious food, clothing and shelter.

    • Pregnant women should receive a maternal support grant from 12 weeks of pregnancy, to reduce the risk of low birth weight.

    • Social grants should increase to match inflation every year.

    Secondly, the National School Nutrition Programme, which provides one nutritious meal to all learners in poorer primary and secondary schools, has limited impact because meals are provided only on weekdays during school terms.

    The programme should be boosted in the following ways:

    • The Department of Basic Education must deliver adequate nutrition to all children in early learning programmes, all year round.

    • Programmes for school-age children should be extended to ensure that they all receive at least one nutritious meal every day, including on weekends and school holidays.

    • Adequate funding should be given to school food gardens and nutrition education. Moreover, the national school nutrition programme starts too late to address under-5 stunting. It only begins when children enter grade R, aged 5.

    Read more: Malnutrition in South Africa: how one community wants resources to be spent

    Thirdly, interventions are needed in the food system.

    • Prices of essential food items should be regulated, to keep them affordable for low-income South Africans and to encourage shifts in consumption choices towards healthier, more nutritious diets.

    • Positive dietary choices can also be promoted through the use of subsidies, discounts or vouchers on “best buy” foods, either for all consumers or for shoppers receiving social grants. They could be given vouchers for nutritious food items along with their cash transfers. Food subsidies or vouchers must include foods that are protein-rich (meat, fish, eggs, dairy), since protein is highly inaccessible to the poor.

    Read more: How do people choose what food to buy? Answers depend on what you ask – so we built a research tool for African countries

    • Government must extend social security protections to seasonal and informal workers during periods of unemployment and underemployment. Seasonal hunger requires specific attention. Seasonal farm workers – most of whom are women – have low incomes, few savings, and limited access to unemployment insurance. They face food insecurity and hunger during the off-season winter months.

    • The government’s land redistribution programme should prioritise securing access to land for poor agrarian or peri-urban households, and providing support (water, inputs, extension advice) to farm that land. This would help vulnerable groups which derive most of their food from production.

    Agrarian households (smallholder farmers, farm workers, farm dwellers) are poorer and more food insecure, especially the female-headed households who survive below the food poverty line. When farm women with food gardens have direct access to fresh vegetables, their dietary diversity improves, and they earn income by selling produce to meet their basic needs.

    Reforms are needed to bolster smallholder farmers. Shutterstock

    Lastly, steps must be take to reduce loss and waste in the food system.

    A third of food produced in South Africa, 10 million of 31 million tons, goes to waste each year. This is equivalent to 30 billion meals, in a context where an estimated 20 billion meals would be enough to end hunger. The government has committed to halving food waste by 2030, in its draft food losses and waste strategy of 2023. It must be finalised and operationalised.

    Next steps

    These interventions would cost money. And the government will argue that it is doing all it can to address hunger with the resources available.

    There are many options for raising additional resources to address the hunger crisis – as seen when the government found R500 billion (US$33 billion) to address the COVID-19 crisis in 2020.

    The government should also consider raising additional revenue by introducing a wealth tax targeting high-net-worth individuals. This could be used to increase social grants or subsidise nutritious foods.

    Read more: Urban food gardens produce more than vegetables, they create bonds for young Capetonians – study

    Finally, government needs to tackle hunger in a coordinated way. Several government departments, including agriculture, social development and health, address issues related to food security. However, no government ministry focuses specifically on hunger.

    The president should appoint a minister of food to address the hunger crisis along the lines of the special minister of electricity position established in 2023 to deal with the country’s energy supply problem.

    Read more: South Africa needs to change direction on maternal health to solve child malnutrition

    At the same time, a national food commission should be established, to monitor and coordinate all initiatives that focus on the goal of eradicating hunger.

    The government should be guided by the priorities set down by a new coalition – the Union Against Hunger – which is due to be launched on 26 February. The initiative is a coalition of civil society organisations and academics (the authors are among the founding members). It has compiled a list of 10 demands that reflect our analysis of the causes of hunger and recommended solutions. They include realising everyone’s constitutional right to food, halving child stunting by 2030 and making nutritious food accessible to all.

    – 15 million South Africans don’t get enough to eat every day: 4 solutions
    – https://theconversation.com/15-million-south-africans-dont-get-enough-to-eat-every-day-4-solutions-250700

    MIL OSI Africa –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: 15 million South Africans don’t get enough to eat every day: 4 solutions

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Stephen Devereux, Research Fellow, Institute of Development Studies

    At least 15 million South Africans suffer from food insecurity. That means they don’t have enough nutritious food to live healthy lives.

    This is due to a combination of factors, including unemployment, poverty, inequality and food system failures.

    More than 1,000 children die from malnutrition each year. This compares unfavourably with 350 child deaths from malnutrition in Brazil, which has more than three times South Africa’s population, and 269 child deaths in Colombia, which has about the same per capita income as South Africa.

    A robust indicator of chronic hunger is child stunting. Stunting in South Africa has flatlined at around 25%, or one in four children, since the early 1990s. Other middle-income countries such as Brazil and Peru have made impressive progress. Peru halved its rate from 28% in 2008 to 13% in 2016, after the president committed to reducing stunting.



    Read more:
    South Africa’s hunger problem is turning into a major health crisis

    How can South Africa’s government deliver on the right to food and begin the urgent process of eradicating hunger?

    We have worked on food security and food justice for many years. We’ve researched the links between social protection and hunger and between food systems and nutrition, and the cost of hunger.

    Based on this experience, our view is that food shortages are not a cause of hunger in South Africa. The country produces and imports all the food it needs. Instead, the problem is unequal access to food. While some South Africans live in a world of abundance, with no budget constraints, millions more survive below the food poverty line, unable to afford even a basic nutritious diet for their families.

    We believe that the government must deliver on the constitutional right to food and begin the urgent process of eradicating hunger. It can do this by expanding the social grant system, extending the school nutrition programme, reducing food waste, and ensuring access to land for low-income rural and peri-urban households.

    Above all, a coherent and coordinated strategy for tackling hunger is needed, led by a minister of food, following models like Brazil’s Zero Hunger initiative. In December 2024, Brazil handed over the G20 presidency to South Africa, after it launched the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. South Africa should embrace the embrace the spirit and focus of the alliance to develop its own Zero Hunger strategy.

    Four steps to end hunger

    The South African government pays out 19 million social grants a month, or 26 million if the 9 million recipients of the special social relief of distress grant are included. Without these cash transfers, poverty and malnutrition in the country would be even higher. But they are inadequate, especially in a context of high and rising food prices.



    Read more:
    South Africa’s fight against extreme poverty needs a new strategy – model shows how social grants could work

    Firstly, the following changes should be made to social grant payments.

    • An immediate increase in the child support grant, followed by further increases. The goal should be to get this grant, which is currently below the food poverty line at R530 a month (US$28), to R1,634 (US$34). This is the minimum amount of money needed to meet basic needs, including nutritious food, clothing and shelter.

    • Pregnant women should receive a maternal support grant from 12 weeks of pregnancy, to reduce the risk of low birth weight.

    • Social grants should increase to match inflation every year.

    Secondly, the National School Nutrition Programme, which provides one nutritious meal to all learners in poorer primary and secondary schools, has limited impact because meals are provided only on weekdays during school terms.

    The programme should be boosted in the following ways:

    • The Department of Basic Education must deliver adequate nutrition to all children in early learning programmes, all year round.

    • Programmes for school-age children should be extended to ensure that they all receive at least one nutritious meal every day, including on weekends and school holidays.

    • Adequate funding should be given to school food gardens and nutrition education. Moreover, the national school nutrition programme starts too late to address under-5 stunting. It only begins when children enter grade R, aged 5.



    Read more:
    Malnutrition in South Africa: how one community wants resources to be spent

    Thirdly, interventions are needed in the food system.

    • Prices of essential food items should be regulated, to keep them affordable for low-income South Africans and to encourage shifts in consumption choices towards healthier, more nutritious diets.

    • Positive dietary choices can also be promoted through the use of subsidies, discounts or vouchers on “best buy” foods, either for all consumers or for shoppers receiving social grants. They could be given vouchers for nutritious food items along with their cash transfers. Food subsidies or vouchers must include foods that are protein-rich (meat, fish, eggs, dairy), since protein is highly inaccessible to the poor.



    Read more:
    How do people choose what food to buy? Answers depend on what you ask – so we built a research tool for African countries

    • Government must extend social security protections to seasonal and informal workers during periods of unemployment and underemployment. Seasonal hunger requires specific attention. Seasonal farm workers – most of whom are women – have low incomes, few savings, and limited access to unemployment insurance. They face food insecurity and hunger during the off-season winter months.

    • The government’s land redistribution programme should prioritise securing access to land for poor agrarian or peri-urban households, and providing support (water, inputs, extension advice) to farm that land. This would help vulnerable groups which derive most of their food from production.

    Agrarian households (smallholder farmers, farm workers, farm dwellers) are poorer and more food insecure, especially the female-headed households who survive below the food poverty line. When farm women with food gardens have direct access to fresh vegetables, their dietary diversity improves, and they earn income by selling produce to meet their basic needs.

    Lastly, steps must be take to reduce loss and waste in the food system.

    A third of food produced in South Africa, 10 million of 31 million tons, goes to waste each year. This is equivalent to 30 billion meals, in a context where an estimated 20 billion meals would be enough to end hunger. The government has committed to halving food waste by 2030, in its draft food losses and waste strategy of 2023. It must be finalised and operationalised.

    Next steps

    These interventions would cost money. And the government will argue that it is doing all it can to address hunger with the resources available.

    There are many options for raising additional resources to address the hunger crisis – as seen when the government found R500 billion (US$33 billion) to address the COVID-19 crisis in 2020.

    The government should also consider raising additional revenue by introducing a wealth tax targeting high-net-worth individuals. This could be used to increase social grants or subsidise nutritious foods.



    Read more:
    Urban food gardens produce more than vegetables, they create bonds for young Capetonians – study

    Finally, government needs to tackle hunger in a coordinated way. Several government departments, including agriculture, social development and health, address issues related to food security. However, no government ministry focuses specifically on hunger.

    The president should appoint a minister of food to address the hunger crisis along the lines of the special minister of electricity position established in 2023 to deal with the country’s energy supply problem.



    Read more:
    South Africa needs to change direction on maternal health to solve child malnutrition

    At the same time, a national food commission should be established, to monitor and coordinate all initiatives that focus on the goal of eradicating hunger.

    The government should be guided by the priorities set down by a new coalition – the Union Against Hunger – which is due to be launched on 26 February. The initiative is a coalition of civil society organisations and academics (the authors are among the founding members). It has compiled a list of 10 demands that reflect our analysis of the causes of hunger and recommended solutions. They include realising everyone’s constitutional right to food, halving child stunting by 2030 and making nutritious food accessible to all.

    Stephen Devereux receives funding from the National Research Foundation (NRF). He holds a Research Chair in Social Protection for Food Security, affiliated to the DSI–NRF Centre of Excellence in Food Security and the Institute for Social Development at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa.

    Busiso Moyo previously received funding from the Centre of Excellence in Food Security – UWC and the IDRC-Canada. He is affiliated with the Union Against Hunger (UAH) initiative.

    Mark Heywood previously headed Section 27, which receives funding and received funding for the Justice and Activism Hub. He is affiliated with the Union Against Hunger initiative.

    – ref. 15 million South Africans don’t get enough to eat every day: 4 solutions – https://theconversation.com/15-million-south-africans-dont-get-enough-to-eat-every-day-4-solutions-250700

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Portfolio Committee meets with GCIS Management

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    Portfolio Committee meets with GCIS Management

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KPWmAZuwbM

    MIL OSI Video –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Active Citizens” to Choose Name for Moscow Zoo Alpaca

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the project “Active Citizen” it has begun vote, the participants of which will choose a name for the new inhabitant of the Moscow Zoo – a snow-white male alpaca.

    Zoologists have suggested six options. Some of them are inspired by the Inca culture, which domesticated these animals about six thousand years ago. One of them is Inti, the name of the mythological god of the Sun. It symbolizes the warmth and fluffy wool of the alpaca, which warms like the sun’s rays.

    Another name, Pacha, translates as “Universe” and emphasizes the uniqueness of each living being. Another option is Cusco, named after the capital of the ancient Inca Empire.

    The name Zephyr conveys the soft and affectionate nature of the alpaca. In addition, he can be called Vatny Puffik in honor of his parents – mom Vatny and dad Puffik. And due to the light color of the fur, the male may be suited to the name Albert, which comes from the Latin word albus, which translates as “white”.

    The alpaca was born in the fall of 2023 in the center for the reproduction of rare animal species near Volokolamsk, becoming the firstborn in its family. At the end of last year he was transported to the children’s zoo, where he became friends with a chocolate-colored female named Zarina. They now share an enclosure and may form a couple in the future.

    The young friendly male also met other inhabitants of the zoo: Border Leicester and Ouessant sheep, Cameroon goats and a Scottish bull named Gavryusha.

    New voting organized by the capital Department of Culture and the project “Active Citizen”With its help, city residents have already chosen names for many animals, including the Malayan bears Masha, Luchik and Zvezdochka, the dolphin Lucky, the panda Katyusha and the tiger Amur.

    Luchik, Zvezdochka and Masha: “active citizens” named Malayan bear cubs from Moscow ZooHello, Lucky: “Active Citizens” Chose a Name for a Baby Dolphin from MoskvariumSobyanin: Muscovites have chosen a name for the panda cub from the capital’s zoo

    Project “Active Citizen” has been operating since 2014. During this time, more than seven million people have joined it, and more than seven thousand votes have been held. Every month, 30–40 decisions made by Muscovites are implemented in the city. The project is being developed by the capital Department of Information Technology and the State Institution “New Management Technologies”.

    The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, correspond to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the Moscow regional project “Digital Public Administration”.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150586073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Phoenix Group to Attend Cantor Fitzgerald Global Technology Conference In New York, USA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Abu Dhabi, UAE, Feb. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Phoenix Group PLC (ADX:PHX), a global leader in Bitcoin mining, blockchain, and next-generation digital and AI infrastructure, is excited to announce that its CEO and Co-Founder, Munaf Ali, will lead the company’s delegation to the Cantor Global Technology Conference in New York City, USA, on March 11-12, 2025.

    As the first digital assets company from the MENA region to attend this prestigious event, Phoenix Group will join a distinguished group of global technology leaders. The conference brings together industry experts, investors, and innovators to discuss the latest trends and opportunities in technology.

    Topics covered will include the institutionalization of cryptocurrency, the intersection of Bitcoin mining and AI/data centers, and the future of digital assets. The company will leverage its position as one of the world’s largest Bitcoin miners to share insights and expertise with attendees.

    Munaf Ali, CEO and Co-Founder of Phoenix Group, commented, “We’re thrilled to be attending the Cantor Global Technology Conference. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with leading investors and industry experts. It’s also an opportunity for us to meet with our ever-growing US investors and institutional client base.

    Since our founding in 2017, Phoenix Group has been at the forefront of the digital asset revolution. We’re proud of our achievements and excited about the future. By attending the Cantor Global Technology Conference, we aim to showcase our leadership in scalable infrastructure, proprietary technology, and sustainable digital innovation.”

    -END-

    About Phoenix Group

    Phoenix Group is a multi-billion-dollar global technology leader headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Founded in 2017, the company has rapidly grown into a conglomerate with a diverse portfolio of businesses in the blockchain, crypto, and technology sectors.

    As one of the world’s top 5 Bitcoin miners, Phoenix Group is at the forefront of the digital asset revolution. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, the company is driving the adoption of digital assets and blockchain technology.

    Phoenix Group operates multiple mining facilities in the US, Canada, Oman, Ethiopia, and the UAE, with a total mining capacity of 451 MW.

    Phoenix Group is the first crypto and blockchain conglomerate in the region to be listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. It also operates the largest mining farm in the MENA region.

    Phoenix Group PLC media team contact:

    Email: media@phoenixgroupuae.com 

    Media Contact:
    Yasmin Oronos
    Luna PR
    yasmin.oronos@lunapr.io

    The MIL Network –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy Limited: Annual report 2024  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Annual report 2024  

    BW Energy today published its annual report for the financial year ended 31 December 2024. BW Energy also published the Board-approved report on payments to governments and the annual statement of reserves for 2024. Please find the reports attached.  

    The reports are also available at: www.bwenergy.no/investors/reports-and-presentations 

    For further information, please contact: 

    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy, +33.7.81.11.41.16 

    ir@bwenergy.com  

    About BW Energy:  

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025.  

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

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Opening Session of the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the Opening Session of the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22PG3-6ZLoA

    MIL OSI Video –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘We’re afraid to return home’: Uprooted again, Congolese civilians face hunger and more insecurity

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    25 February 2025 Peace and Security

    Around 700,000 people were forced to leave Goma, one of the biggest cities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) when it fell in January to rebels, known as M23. With the conflict spreading, many of them are on the move again but a return home is no guarantee of safety.

    On 9 February, M23 fighters gave Tumusifu, her six children and all the other residents of Bulengo displacement camp just 72 hours to leave. For the second time in a matter of weeks they would have to pick up their belongings and flee. 

    In January they were among the hundreds of thousands who sought refuge from the fighting when Goma fell to M23, but Bulengo is no longer safe. Going back to the city region may be the only option, but it is fraught with danger.

    © WFP/Michael Castofas

    A man dismantles his shelter in a camp before leaving for a safer location.

    “We’re afraid to return home,” Tumusifu, a mother of six, told UN aid workers at the time. “There is still fighting in our home village. We are hungry and do not have money to help ourselves. We’re waiting alongside the road because we do not know where to go.” 

    Since then, the crisis has continued to escalate. After Goma, M23 fighters took over Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, and other key towns, and thousands more have been displaced.

    This insecurity extends to Goma itself, where there have been reports of crime and targeted violence, including home invasions and kidnappings. The UN peacekeeping mission for DRC, MONUSCO, has described the security situation in areas seized by M23 rebels as “unstable and highly unpredictable.”

    ‘Some children are starving to death’

    Despite the dangers, and with nowhere else to go, Tumusifu and her family went back to their home village near Goma. Conditions are extremely precarious. “Food is our biggest need right now,” she says. “Some children are starving to death. There are no medicines because the clinics are closed.”

    © WFP/Michael Castofas

    Like many displaced people at Bulengo, Francine feared for her family’s safety.

    When Francine fled the displacement camp she lived in near Goma, she was separated from her husband. She fled in one direction with five of her children, whilst her husband ran in another with the couple’s sixth child. 

    “We have not seen each other since,” she said. “I’m currently taking shelter in a school, and our lives are even more challenging than they were in the camps. The most difficult thing for us is the scarcity of food and the lack of water. We have no access to a health centre.”

    After two of WFP’s warehouses in Goma were looted, 70 per cent of the food stored there, some 9,000 metric tons, was taken, severely limiting the World Food Programme, WFP’s ability to support the population.

    Across the country, looting has severely disrupted humanitarian operations, leaving over 450,000 people without shelter, food, or water. 

    “Displaced people have not had assistance for six weeks,” said Shelley Thakral, WFP spokesperson in DRC. “It is critical to bring food in – people are running out.”

    Markets are collapsing under the strain. A recent WFP study found that maize flour – one of the region’s staples – has risen in price by almost 70 per cent, with sharp increases also seen for salt and peanut oil.

    © WFP/Benjamin Anguandia

    An UNHAS plane lands at Bunia airport in the eastern DR Congo. (file)

    Another critical factor is transport. Goma’s airport has been closed for more than two weeks, cutting off a vital humanitarian supply route, and the WFP-operated UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) is facing a funding crisis that could see services suspended by the end of March, unless the agency can raise $33.1 million to keep the planes in the air.

    Women and girls on the frontline

    As conditions worsen, women and girls face an increased risk of sexual violence and exploitation. Many are attacked while searching for firewood, and in extreme cases, some resort to providing sexual services to feed their families. Female-headed households are particularly vulnerable.

    © WFP/Michael Castofas

    WFP continues to deliver food aid in Goma.

    “Putting food in the hands of women and providing them with livelihood opportunities is key to curbing violence targeting women and girls,” said Ms. Thakral, adding that WFP plans to distribute 57 metric tons of food to support 11,000 children and pregnant or breastfeeding women at risk of severe malnutrition.

    Amid all the hardship, people’s dreams of returning to the homes they had before they were forced to live in displacement camps are intact. 

    “We will not choose a life of displacement over the peace of our homeland,” said Tumusifu. “Even if we have lost everything – including our farms and our livestock – we have the skills to restart.”

    Surnames in this story are omitted for protection reasons
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Problem of delaying release of Palestinian prisoners resolved

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    People welcome a released Palestinian prisoner in the West Bank city of Ramallah, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    An agreement was reached to resolve the problem of delaying the release of Palestinian prisoners who were supposed to be released in the last batch, Hamas said on Tuesday.

    The prisoners would be released simultaneously with the bodies of the Israeli hostages that were agreed to be handed over during the first stage of the Gaza ceasefire deal, Hamas said in a statement.

    A Hamas leadership delegation concluded its visit to Cairo, where it met with Egyptian officials, the statement said, noting that discussions were held on the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, the exchange of prisoners, and the prospects for the second phase of negotiations.

    “The delegation of the movement’s leadership stressed its clear position on the necessity of full and precise commitment to all its provisions and stages,” the statement added.

    Israel announced early Sunday that it had postponed the release of Palestinian detainees, who were set to be freed Saturday under the ceasefire agreement until more hostages are released.

    Israel was expected to release more than 600 Palestinian detainees on Saturday after Hamas freed six hostages earlier in the day.

    However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said in a statement that it had been decided to delay the release of Palestinian detainees scheduled for Saturday “until the release of the next hostages is secured, without the disgraceful ceremonies.”

    MIL OSI China News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: War medals returned to family

    Source: South Australia Police

    Today, A/Detective Sergeant Nic Jong returned Captain Maxwell George Worthley’s World War Two medals to his nephew David!

    The six medals were found by police during a search of a property at Elizabeth Downs on Tuesday 4 February.

    Captain Maxwell George Worthley, enlisted at Broadview on 21st June 1940. He served in the Middle East, New Guinea, and Borneo.

    Police would like to thank all those who conducted their own research, called Crime Stoppers with information, and those who liked and shared the original social media post!

    Photo1: D/Sgt Jong and David.

    Photo 2: Captain Max Worthley.

    Photo 3: The stolen medals.

    MIL OSI News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Child Care – Save the Children calls for immediate action to meet minimum standards for children in care, following new report

    Source: Save the Children

    Save the Children is deeply concerned by the lack of progress to ensure all children in care are receiving the minimum standard of care required by the National Care Standards and Related Matters Regulations (NCS Regulations).
    Today’s report by Aroturuki Tamariki, the Independent Children’s Monitor highlights the lack of progress of Oranga Tamariki to meet the minimum regulatory care standards that are requirements for children in the care of the State over the past four years, and do not expect to see progress by the next report one year from now.
    “The Royal Commission of Inquiry has illuminated the painful failures of the past where many children were let down by the State, subjected to horrifying levels of abuse and harm while in the care of the State. Sadly, this report shows that abuse and harm to children while in care of the State remains a current issue,” says Save the Children Advocacy Director Jacqui Southey.
    “It is unacceptable that funding cuts are impacting the delivery of care and protection of children in vulnerable situations. Adequate investment is required to ensure our care system is working effectively and cohesively, protecting and improving the lives of children that have already experienced significant harm or neglect.
    “Enduring failures to meet the minimum standards required by the National Care Standard Regulations are not good enough.”
    Ms Southey says significant areas of concern include unacceptably high numbers of children in care continue to be harmed, with highest rates of harm occurring in secure residential care settings or when children return home to their families.
    The report shows 23 % of tamariki and rangatahi were found to have been abused in secure residences, with 18 % of the harm caused by residence staff and 79 % by other rangatahi. For tamariki and rangatahi returned home to the care of a parent while in the custody of Oranga Tamariki, 11% of tamariki and rangatahi were abused or neglected.
    “Failure to complete assessments and care plans for all children is worrying, as is the lack of collaboration of agencies across the care and protection systems potentially leading to gaps creating risks that children could be harmed instead of being protected,” says Ms Southey.
    “There are strong expectations that when a child is being harmed or at serious risk of harm and the State is required to step in, that the situation for that child will dramatically improve, that their care and protection is guaranteed, and that the State will uphold their parental responsibilities to ensure the child’s rights and wellbeing are met in the short and longer duration of their care. The role of social workers, working alongside tamariki, carers and families is critical to achieving this.”
    Save the Children is calling for immediate action based on the findings of the report to change the trajectory to meet the minimum care standards, ensure that all children have required assessments completed, and up to date care plans in place that are communicated to and developed with the children they are about.
    Other areas that urgently need to be improved include ensuring all children that are 18 years transitioning out of the care system are well supported in the next steps of their lives to have emotional support, housing, financial support, support to access employment or undertake further education.
    About Save the Children NZ:
    Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
    Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: PNG govt’s latest ID plan unlikely to be achieved, says academic

    RNZ Pacific

    The Papua New Guinea government wants to have everyone on their National Identity (NID) card system by the country’s 50th anniversary on 16 September 2025.

    While the government has been struggling to set up the NID programme for more than 10 years, in January the Prime Minister, James Marape, announced they aimed to have 100 percent of Papua New Guineans signed up by September 16.

    However, an academic with the University of PNG, working in conjunction with the Australian National University, Andrew Anton Mako, said there was no chance the government could achieve this goal.

    Anton Mako spoke with RNZ Pacific senior journalist Don Wiseman:

    ANDREW ANTON MAKO: The NID programme was established in November 2014, so it’s 10 years now. I wouldn’t know the mechanics of the delay, why it has taken this long for the project to not deliver on the outcomes, but I can say a lot of money has been invested into the programme.

    By the end of this year, the national government would have spent about 500 million kina (over NZ$211 million). That’s a lot of money to be spent on a particular project, and then it would have only registered about 30 to 40 percent of the total population. So there’s a serious issue there. The project has failed to deliver.

    DON WISEMAN: Come back to that in a moment. But why does the government think that a national ID card is so important?

    AAM: It’s got some usefulness to achieve. If it was well established and well implemented, it would address a number of issues. For example, on doing business and a form of identity that will help people to do business, to apply for jobs in Papua New Guinea or elsewhere, and all that. I believe it has got merit towards it, but I think just that it has not been implemented properly.

    DW: Does the population like the idea?

    AAM: I think generally when it started, people were on board. But when it got delayed, you see a lot of people venting frustration on the NID Facebook page. I think [it’s] popularity has actually fallen over the years.

    DW: It’s money that could go into a whole lot of other, perhaps, more important things?

    AAM: Exactly, there’s pressing issues for the country, in terms of law and order, health and education. Those important sectors have actually fallen over the years. So that 500 million kina would have been better spent.

    DW: So now the government wants the entire country within this system by September 16, and they’re not going to get anywhere near it. They must have realised they wouldn’t get anywhere near it when the Prime Minister made that statement. Surely?

    AAM: It’s not possible. The numbers do not add up. They’ve spent more than 460 million kina over the last 10 years or so, and they’ve only registered 36 percent of the total — 3.3 million people. And then of the 3.3 million people, they’ve only issued an ID card to about 30 to 40 perCent of them . . .

    DW: 30 to 40 percent of those who have already signed up. So it’s what, 10 percent of the country?

    AAM: That’s right, about 1.2 million people have been issued an ID card, including a duplicate card. It is not possible to register the entire country, the rest of the country, in just six, seven or eight months.

    DW: It’s not the first time that the government has come out with what is effectively like a wish list without fully backing it, financially?

    AAM: That’s right. The ambitions that the government and the Prime Minister, their intentions are good, but there is no effective strategy how to get there.

    The resources that are needed to be allocated. It’s just not possible to realise the the end results. For example, the Prime Minister and his government promised that by this year, we would stop importing rice. That was a promise that was made in 2019, so the thing is that the government has not clearly laid out a plan as to how the country will realise that outcome by this year.

    If you are going to promise something, then you have to deliver on it. You have to deliver on the ambitions. Then you have to set up a proper game plan and proper indicators and things like this.

    I think that’s the issue, that you have promised something [and] you must deliver. But you must chart out a proper pathway to deliver that.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Convicted Of Narcotics Distribution Resulting In Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Greenbelt, Maryland – After a seven-day trial, a federal jury returned a verdict against OJ Rashad Green, also known as “Ice” age 36, of Accokeek, finding him guilty of knowingly and intentionally distributing fentanyl, a controlled substance, on multiple occasions. 

    The guilty verdict was announced by Phil Selden, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland; Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration – Washington Division; Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department, Sheriff Troy Berry of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, and Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr., of the Maryland State Police.

    “As proven at Defendant Green’s federal trial he sold fentanyl that fueled the opioid crisis in Southern Maryland,” stated Acting United States Attorney Phil Selden.  “Maryland has been deeply impacted by the opioid crisis, and the District of Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, in partnership with our federal, state and local partners, will continue our tireless efforts to prosecute drug traffickers responsible for this crisis.”

    Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Washington Division stated that “to protect the American public, it is the mission of the DEA to investigate and take down violent drug traffickers like Mr. Green, that are preying on our citizens illegally distributing fake pills containing lethal amounts of fentanyl with no regard for human lives. Today’s guilty verdict emphasizes our commitment to the tireless work of investigating and prosecuting those responsible for fueling addiction and deadly overdoses and poisonings in our area – saving lives in our communities.”

    According to the evidence presented at trial, from on or about January 21, 2022 through September 28, 2022 the Defendant, OJ Rashad Green, repeatedly distributed fentanyl in the Accokeek, Maryland area.  These distributions happened at both a home he controlled in Accokeek and during in-person deliveries at various locations to users and other dealers.  The Defendant employed individuals as both testers of the fentanyl that the Defendant mixed with various other substances, and as runners to meet customers outside the home.

    A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow scheduled sentencing for a future date.

    Acting United States Attorney Phil Selden commended the DEA and PGPD, for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Selden thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Darren S. Gardner and Brooke Oki, who are prosecuting the federal case.

    For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

    MIL Security OSI –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: EXL Reports 2024 Fourth Quarter and Year-End Results; Issues 2025 Guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    2024 Fourth Quarter Revenue of $481.4 Million, up 16.3% year-over-year
    Q4 Diluted EPS (GAAP) of $0.31, up 28.4% from $0.24 in Q4 of 2023
    Q4 Adjusted Diluted EPS (Non-GAAP) (1)of $0.44, up 26.1% from $0.35 in Q4 of 2023

    2024 Revenue of $1.84 Billion, up 12.7% year-over-year
    2024 Diluted EPS (GAAP) of $1.21, up 10.0% from $1.10 in 2023
    2024 Adjusted Diluted EPS (Non-GAAP) (1)of $1.65, up 15.4% from $1.43 in 2023

    NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ExlService Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: EXLS), a global data and AI company, today announced its financial results for the quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

    Rohit Kapoor, chairman and chief executive officer, said, “As we executed our data and AI strategy in 2024, we achieved several key milestones, including launching an enterprise AI platform in partnership with NVIDIA, introducing our insurance-specific large language model (LLM) and expanding our data management capabilities with the acquisition of ITI Data. Our focus on innovating with speed led to industry-leading full-year revenue growth of 12.7% and adjusted EPS growth of 15.4%. As AI adoption continues to increase, EXL is well positioned to capture this opportunity and continue its strong growth momentum.”

    Maurizio Nicolelli, chief financial officer, said, “We finished 2024 with robust growth across our business segments, a formidable balance sheet and strong free cash flow. For the full year 2025, we expect revenue to be in the range of $2.025 billion to $2.060 billion, representing a 10% to 12% increase year-over-year on a reported basis and 11% to 13% on constant currency basis. We expect adjusted diluted EPS to be in the range of $1.83 to $1.89, representing a 11% to 14% increase over 2024.”

    __________________________________________________

    1. Reconciliations of adjusted (non-GAAP) financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures, where applicable, are included at the end of this release under “Reconciliation of Adjusted Financial Measures to GAAP Measures.” These non-GAAP measures, including adjusted diluted EPS and constant currency measures, are not measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    Financial Highlights: Fourth Quarter 2024

    • Revenue for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 increased to $481.4 million compared to $414.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2023, an increase of 16.3% on a reported basis and constant currency basis. Revenue increased by 2.0% sequentially on a reported basis and 2.4% on a constant currency basis, from the third quarter of 2024.
        Revenue
    		   Gross Margin
        Three months ended
    		   Three months ended
    Reportable Segments   December 31, 2024
    		   December 31, 2023
    		   September 30, 2024
    		   December 31, 2024
    		   December 31, 2023
    		   September 30, 2024
        (dollars in millions)    
    Insurance   $ 162.0     $ 139.1     $ 157.6     36.9 %   36.2 %   36.3 %
    Healthcare     31.6       26.0       30.5     31.7 %   36.9 %   33.6 %
    Emerging Business     80.1       67.0       80.0     40.7 %   41.0 %   40.2 %
    Analytics     207.7       182.0       204.0     39.0 %   35.4 %   38.5 %
    Revenues, net   $ 481.4     $ 414.1     $ 472.1     38.1 %   36.7 %   37.8 %
                                               
    • Operating income margin for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 was 14.8%, compared to 13.1% for the fourth quarter of 2023 and 14.7% for the third quarter of 2024. Adjusted operating income margin for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 was 18.8%, compared to 17.8% for the fourth quarter of 2023 and 19.9% for the third quarter of 2024.
    • Diluted earnings per share for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 was $0.31, compared to $0.24 for the fourth quarter of 2023 and $0.33 for the third quarter of 2024. Adjusted diluted earnings per share for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 was $0.44, compared to $0.35 for the fourth quarter of 2023 and $0.44 for the third quarter of 2024.

    Financial Highlights: Full Year 2024

    • Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased to $1.84 billion compared to $1.63 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023, an increase of 12.7% on a reported basis and constant currency basis.
        Revenue
    		   Gross Margin
        Year ended
    		   Year ended
    Reportable Segments   December 31, 2024
    		   December 31, 2023
    		   December 31, 2024
    		   December 31, 2023
        (dollars in millions)    
    Insurance   $ 614.0     $ 529.9     36.4 %   35.5 %
    Healthcare     116.4       106.0     33.0 %   34.6 %
    Emerging Business     311.7       265.7     41.8 %   43.2 %
    Analytics     796.3       729.1     37.5 %   36.8 %
    Revenues, net   $ 1,838.4     $ 1,630.7     37.6 %   37.3 %
                                 
    • Operating income margin for the year ended December 31, 2024 was 14.3%, compared to 14.6% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Adjusted operating income margin for the year ended December 31, 2024 was 19.4%, compared to 19.3% for the year ended December 31, 2023.
    • Diluted earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $1.21, compared to $1.10 for the year ended December 31, 2023. Adjusted diluted earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $1.65, compared to $1.43 for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    Business Highlights: Fourth Quarter 2024

    • Won 17 new clients in the fourth quarter of 2024, with 8 clients in digital operations and solutions and 9 in analytics. For the year, we won 69 new clients, with 32 in digital operations and solutions and 37 in analytics.
    • Launched EXLerate.AI, an agentic AI platform designed to help enterprises reimagine and build AI-native workflows that drive greater efficiency, lower costs, and increased accuracy and scalability across business operations.
    • Named a Leader in the ISG Provider Lens™ Generative AI Services 2024 report. Analysts cited EXL’s data integration capabilities, domain-specific expertise, and robust transformational framework as key differentiators driving its leadership in this space.
    • Recognized as a Market Leader in the HFS Research 2024 AADA Quadfecta Services for the Generative Enterprise™ 2024 study. The study evaluated 27 leading analytics, AI, data platforms, and automation service providers on their ability to unlock deep insights from data, automate complex processes, and enhance operational efficiencies. The Market Leader designation is the report’s highest distinction.

    2025 Operating Model

    To accelerate the execution of our data and AI strategy, capture a greater share of the growing AI market and drive EXL’s long-term growth, the company is changing its operating model. The new model is comprised of Industry Market Units focused on delivering higher value to clients leveraging our full suite of capabilities; and Strategic Growth Units focused on rapidly advancing our capabilities specific to various industries and client needs.

    This enhances our ability to deepen client relationships, unlock new buying centers, expand our addressable markets across industries and geographies, accelerate investments in data and AI capabilities and industry-specific solutions, and create more professional development opportunities for our employees. This model enables us to deliver AI-powered integrated solutions more effectively and evolve engagements to maximize value for our clients.

    EXL will adopt new financial reporting segments consistent with how management will be reviewing financial information and making operating decisions beginning in the first quarter of 2025. Our data, AI and analytics capabilities are driving all our solutions and business lines. Accordingly, we will now report data and AI revenue alongside our new reporting segments beginning with the first quarter of 2025. This shift will provide a higher quality and more relevant representation of our business performance as we continue executing our data and AI growth strategy. The new reportable segments, aligned to our Industry Market Units, are as follows:

    • Insurance
    • Healthcare and Life Sciences
    • Banking, Capital Markets and Diversified Industries
    • International Growth Markets

    The change in segment presentation will not have any effect on our consolidated statements of income, balance sheets or cash flows. The revised presentation will be reflected in our periodic and annual reports beginning in the first quarter of 2025.

    2025 Guidance

    Based on current visibility, and a U.S. dollar to Indian rupee exchange rate of 87.0, U.K. pound sterling to U.S. dollar exchange rate of 1.25, U.S. dollar to the Philippine peso exchange rate of 58.0 and all other currencies at current exchange rates, we are providing the following guidance for the full year 2025:

    • Revenue of $2.025 billion to $2.060 billion, representing an increase of 10% to 12% on a reported basis, and 11% to 13% on a constant currency basis, from 2024; and
    • Adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.83 to $1.89, representing an increase of 11% to 14% from 2024.

    Conference Call

    ExlService Holdings, Inc. will host a conference call on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. ET to discuss the Company’s fourth quarter and year-end operating and financial results. The conference call will be available live via the internet by accessing the investor relations section of EXL’s website at ir.exlservice.com, where an accompanying investor-friendly spreadsheet of historical operating and financial data can also be accessed. Please access the website at least fifteen minutes prior to the call to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

    To join the live call, please register here. For those who cannot access the live broadcast, a replay will be available on the EXL website ir.exlservice.com for a period of twelve months.

    About ExlService Holdings, Inc.

    EXL (NASDAQ: EXLS) is a global data and artificial intelligence (“AI”) company that offers services and solutions to reinvent client business models, drive better outcomes and unlock growth with speed. EXL harnesses the power of data, AI, and deep industry knowledge to transform businesses, including the world’s leading corporations in industries including insurance, healthcare, banking and financial services, media and retail, among others. EXL was founded in 1999 with the core values of innovation, collaboration, excellence, integrity and respect. We are headquartered in New York and have more than 59,000 employees spanning six continents. For more information, visit www.exlservice.com.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You should not place undue reliance on those statements because they are subject to numerous uncertainties and factors relating to EXL’s operations and business environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond EXL’s control. Forward-looking statements include information concerning EXL’s possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of its business strategy. These statements may include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate” or similar expressions. These statements are based on assumptions that we have made in light of management’s experience in the industry as well as its perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate under the circumstances. You should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although EXL believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect EXL’s actual financial results or results of operations and could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These factors, which include our ability to maintain and grow client demand, risks related to the use of AI technology, impact on client demand by the selling cycle of our contracts, fluctuations in our earnings, our ability to hire and retain sufficiently trained employees, and our ability to accurately estimate and/or manage costs, are discussed in more detail in EXL’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including EXL’s Annual Report on Form 10-K. You should keep in mind that any forward-looking statement made herein, or elsewhere, speaks only as of the date on which it is made. New risks and uncertainties come up from time to time, and it is impossible to predict these events or how they may affect EXL. EXL has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof, except as required by applicable law.

     
    EXLSERVICE HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (In thousands, except per share amount and share count)
               
              (Unaudited)
      Year ended December 31,   Three months ended December 31,
      2024   2023   2024   2023
    Revenues, net $ 1,838,372     $ 1,630,668     $ 481,426     $ 414,058  
    Cost of revenues(1)   1,147,359       1,022,902       298,023       262,211  
    Gross profit(1)   691,013       607,766       183,403       151,847  
    Operating expenses:              
    General and administrative expenses   225,672       198,294       58,477       53,730  
    Selling and marketing expenses   146,502       120,227       37,520       31,553  
    Depreciation and amortization expense   55,219       50,490       16,164       12,298  
    Total operating expenses   427,393       369,011       112,161       97,581  
    Income from operations   263,620       238,755       71,242       54,266  
    Foreign exchange gain, net   891       1,532       218       694  
    Interest expense   (19,256 )     (13,180 )     (5,111 )     (3,150 )
    Other income/(expense), net   16,092       10,834       4,216       4,240  
    Income before income tax expense and earnings from equity affiliates   261,347       237,941       70,565       56,050  
    Income tax expense   62,936       53,536       19,850       15,763  
    Income before earnings from equity affiliates   198,411       184,405       50,715       40,287  
    Gain/(loss) from equity-method investment   (114 )     153       (43 )     (4 )
    Net income $ 198,297     $ 184,558     $ 50,672     $ 40,283  
    Earnings per share:              
    Basic $ 1.22     $ 1.11     $ 0.31     $ 0.24  
    Diluted $ 1.21     $ 1.10     $ 0.31     $ 0.24  
    Weighted average number of shares used in computing earnings per share:              
    Basic   162,718,840       166,341,213       161,292,473       165,254,017  
    Diluted   164,321,656       168,161,371       163,436,793       166,880,836  

    (1)Exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense.

     
    EXLSERVICE HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands, except per share amount and share count)
         
        As of
        December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets        
    Current assets:        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 153,355     $ 136,953  
    Short-term investments     187,223       153,881  
    Restricted cash     9,972       4,062  
    Accounts receivable, net     304,322       308,108  
    Other current assets     140,317       76,669  
    Total current assets     795,189       679,673  
    Property and equipment, net     101,837       100,373  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     68,784       64,856  
    Restricted cash     8,071       4,386  
    Deferred tax assets, net     104,747       82,927  
    Goodwill     420,387       405,639  
    Other intangible assets, net     49,331       50,164  
    Long-term investments     13,972       4,430  
    Other assets     56,085       49,524  
    Total assets   $ 1,618,403     $ 1,441,972  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity        
    Current liabilities:        
    Accounts payable   $ 5,884     $ 5,055  
    Current portion of long-term borrowings     4,886       65,000  
    Deferred revenue     19,264       12,318  
    Accrued employee costs     129,994       117,137  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities     113,597       114,113  
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities     16,491       12,780  
    Total current liabilities     290,116       326,403  
    Long-term borrowings, less current portion     283,598       135,000  
    Operating lease liabilities, less current portion     59,851       58,175  
    Deferred tax liabilities, net     1,403       1,495  
    Other non-current liabilities     53,573       31,462  
    Total liabilities     688,541       552,535  
    Commitments and contingencies        
    Stockholders’ equity:        
    Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 15,000,000 shares authorized, none issued     —       —  
    Common stock, $0.001 par value; 400,000,000 shares authorized, 206,510,587 shares issued and 161,801,212 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and 203,410,038 shares issued and 165,277,880 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023     206       203  
    Additional paid-in capital     588,583       508,028  
    Retained earnings     1,281,960       1,083,663  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (154,722 )     (127,040 )
    Total including shares held in treasury     1,716,027       1,464,854  
    Less: 44,709,375 shares as of December 31, 2024 and 38,132,158 shares as of December 31, 2023, held in treasury, at cost     (786,165 )     (575,417 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     929,862       889,437  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 1,618,403     $ 1,441,972  
                     
     
    EXLSERVICE HOLDINGS, INC.Reconciliation of Adjusted Financial Measures to GAAP Measures
     

    In addition to its reported operating results in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), EXL has included in this release certain financial measures that are considered non-GAAP financial measures, including the following:

    (i)   Adjusted operating income and adjusted operating income margin;
    (ii)   Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin;
    (iii)   Adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share; and
    (iv)   Revenue growth on constant currency basis.
         

    These non-GAAP financial measures are not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles, should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP, and may be different from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. Accordingly, the financial results calculated in accordance with GAAP and reconciliations from those financial statements should be carefully evaluated. EXL believes that providing these non-GAAP financial measures may help investors better understand EXL’s underlying financial performance. Management also believes that these non-GAAP financial measures, when read in conjunction with EXL’s reported results, can provide useful supplemental information for investors analyzing period-to-period comparisons of the Company’s results and comparisons of the Company’s results with the results of other companies. Additionally, management considers some of these non-GAAP financial measures to determine variable compensation of its employees. The Company believes that it is unreasonably difficult to provide its earnings per share financial guidance in accordance with GAAP, or a qualitative reconciliation thereof, for a number of reasons, including, without limitation, the Company’s inability to predict its future stock-based compensation expense under ASC Topic 718, the amortization of intangibles associated with future acquisitions and the currency fluctuations and associated tax effects. As such, the Company presents guidance with respect to adjusted diluted earnings per share. The Company also incurs significant non-cash charges for depreciation that may not be indicative of the Company’s ability to generate cash flow.

    EXL non-GAAP financial measures exclude, where applicable, stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, provision for restructuring and litigation settlement matters, effects of termination of leases, certain defined social security contributions, allowance for certain material expected credit losses, other acquisition-related expenses or benefits and effect of any non-recurring tax adjustments. Acquisition-related expenses or benefits include, changes in the fair value of contingent consideration, external deal costs, integration expenses, direct and incremental travel costs and non-recurring benefits or losses. Our adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS also excludes the effects of income tax on the above pre-tax items, as applicable. The effects of income tax of each item is calculated by applying the statutory rate of the local tax regulations in the jurisdiction in which the item was incurred.

    A limitation of using non-GAAP financial measures versus financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP is that non-GAAP financial measures do not reflect all of the amounts associated with our operating results as determined in accordance with GAAP and exclude costs that are recurring, namely stock-based compensation and amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets. EXL compensates for these limitations by providing specific information regarding the GAAP amounts excluded from non-GAAP financial measures to allow investors to evaluate such non-GAAP financial measures.

    EXL’s primary exchange rate exposure is with the Indian rupee, the Philippine peso, the U.K. pound sterling and the South African rand. The average exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the Indian rupee increased from 83.28 during the quarter ended December 31, 2023 to 84.72 during the quarter ended December 31, 2024, representing a depreciation of 1.7% against the U.S. dollar. The average exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the Philippine peso increased from 55.86 during the quarter ended December 31, 2023 to 58.19 during the quarter ended December 31, 2024, representing a depreciation of 4.2% against the U.S. dollar. The average exchange rate of the U.K. pound sterling against the U.S. dollar increased from 1.25 during the quarter ended December 31, 2023 to 1.28 during the quarter ended December 31, 2024, representing an appreciation of 1.9% against the U.S. dollar. The average exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the South African rand decreased from 18.63 during the quarter ended December 31, 2023 to 18.18 during the quarter ended December 31, 2024, representing an appreciation of 2.4% against the U.S. dollar.

    The following table shows the reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 and the three months ended September 30, 2024:

    Reconciliation of Adjusted Operating Income and Adjusted EBITDA
    (Amounts in thousands)
             
        Year ended   Three months ended
        December 31,   December 31,   September 30,
        2024   2023   2024   2023   2024
    Net income (GAAP)   $ 198,297     $ 184,558     $ 50,672     $ 40,283     $ 53,037  
    add: Income tax expense     62,936       53,536       19,850       15,763       15,460  
    add/(subtract): Foreign exchange gain, net, interest expense, gain/(loss) from equity-method investment and other income/(loss), net     2,387       661       720       (1,780 )     908  
    Income from operations (GAAP)   $ 263,620     $ 238,755     $ 71,242     $ 54,266     $ 69,405  
    add: Stock-based compensation expense     72,658       58,437       15,479       15,452       21,232  
    add: Amortization of acquisition-related intangibles     13,630       14,678       4,024       3,168       3,449  
    add: Restructuring and litigation settlement costs (a)     6,174       613       —       613       —  
    add/(subtract): Allowance/(reversal) for expected credit losses (b)     —       1,436       —       (264 )     —  
    add: Other expenses (c)     —       771       —       282       —  
    Adjusted operating income (Non-GAAP)   $ 356,082     $ 314,690     $ 90,745     $ 73,517     $ 94,086  
    Adjusted operating income margin as a % of Revenue (Non-GAAP)     19.4 %     19.3 %     18.8 %     17.8 %     19.9 %
    add: Depreciation on long-lived assets     41,589       34,434       12,140       9,130       10,350  
    Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP)   $ 397,671     $ 349,124     $ 102,885     $ 82,647     $ 104,436  
    Adjusted EBITDA margin as a % of revenue (Non-GAAP)     21.6 %     21.4 %     21.4 %     20.0 %     22.1 %
                         

    (a) To exclude effects of employee severance costs and outplacement support costs of $4,762 and $nil and litigation settlement costs and associated legal fees of $1,412 and $613 for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. To exclude effects of litigation settlement costs and associated legal fees of $nil and $613 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

    (b) To exclude the effects of material allowance/(reversal) for expected credit losses on accounts receivables related to a customer bankruptcy event.

    (c) To exclude effects of lease termination of $nil and $489 and other items, individually insignificant of $nil and $282 for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. To exclude effects of other items, individually insignificant of $nil and $282 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

     
    Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share
    (Amounts in thousands, except per share data)
             
        Year ended   Three months ended
        December 31,   December 31,   September 30,
        2024   2023   2024   2023   2024
    Net income (GAAP)   $ 198,297     $ 184,558     $ 50,672     $ 40,283     $ 53,037  
    add: Stock-based compensation expense     72,658       58,437       15,479       15,452       21,232  
    add: Amortization of acquisition-related intangibles     13,630       14,678       4,024       3,168       3,449  
    add: Restructuring and litigation settlement costs (a)     6,174       613       —       613       —  
    add/(subtract): Changes in fair value of contingent consideration     (589 )     1,900       —       (600 )     —  
    add: Other tax expenses (b)     3,817       223       3,817       223       —  
    add/(subtract): Allowance/(reversal) for expected credit losses (c)     —       1,436       —       (264 )     —  
    add: Other expenses (d)     —       489       —       —       —  
    subtract: Tax impact on stock-based compensation expense (e)     (17,576 )     (17,333 )     (1,769 )     (374 )     (5,830 )
    subtract: Tax impact on amortization of acquisition-related intangibles     (3,318 )     (3,622 )     (921 )     (792 )     (866 )
    add/(subtract): Tax impact on restructuring and litigation settlement costs     (1,540 )     —       48       —       —  
    add/(subtract): Tax impact on changes in fair value of contingent consideration     146       152       (5 )     152       —  
    add/(subtract): Tax impact on allowance/(reversal) for expected credit losses     —       (364 )     —       65       —  
    subtract: Tax impact on other expenses     —       (280 )     —       (157 )     —  
    Adjusted net income (Non-GAAP)   $ 271,699     $ 240,887     $ 71,345     $ 57,769     $ 71,022  
    Adjusted diluted earnings per share (Non-GAAP)   $ 1.65     $ 1.43     $ 0.44     $ 0.35     $ 0.44  
                                             

    (a) To exclude effects of employee severance costs and outplacement support costs of $4,762 and $nil and litigation settlement costs and associated legal fees of $1,412 and $613 for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. To exclude effects of litigation settlement costs and associated legal fees of $nil and $613 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

    (b) To exclude other tax expenses/(benefits) related to certain deferred tax assets and liabilities.

    (c) To exclude the effects of material allowance/(reversal) for expected credit losses on accounts receivables related to a customer bankruptcy event.

    (d) To exclude effects of lease termination of $nil and $489 for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

    (e) Tax impact includes $9,714 and $15,055 for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 respectively, $500 and $1,883 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 respectively, and $1,673 for the three months ended September 30, 2024 related to discrete benefit recognized in income tax expense in accordance with ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation.

    Contacts:
    Investor Relations
    John Kristoff
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    +1 212 209 4613
    ir@exlservice.com

    Media – US
    Keith Little
    Assistant Vice President, Media Relations
    +1 703 598 0980
    media.relations@exlservice.com

    The MIL Network –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Conflict in DR Congo, Europe’s ‘cradle to cane’ crisis, millions may go hungry in Chad

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    25 February 2025 Peace and Security

    Ongoing fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) between Rwanda-backed M23 rebels and Congolese troops has claimed more lives and forced even more families from their homes. 

    In an alert on Tuesday, UN aid coordinators OCHA said that six humanitarian workers have been killed since January – the latest victim was shot during clashes last week near a hospital in Masisi Territory about 80 kilometres west of Goma, in North Kivu.

    The same clashes reportedly killed three other civilians and injured a child, according to OCHA, which said that more than 100,000 people have been forced to flee their homes due to further clashes last week in Lubero Territory, 250 kilometers north of Goma. 

    Rape and other violations reported

    Because of the insecurity several local health facilities have had to suspend activities. Humanitarian partners on the ground also report that there have been widespread human rights violations amid the fighting, including rape, OCHA said.

    Meanwhile, local officials in South Kivu report schools are gradually re-opening in Kalehe Territory, located some 65 kilometres north of the provincial capital Bukavu.

    Unexploded ordnance remains a problem in many areas affected by recent fighting, including two schools in the city of Minova, north of Bukavu, according to humanitarian partners.

    The head of UN Peacekeeping Operations expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis and loss of life in the DRC during a press conference in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, on Monday.

    Jean-Pierre Lacroix stressed that there is no military solution to the crisis and reiterated that while “it’s encouraging to see progress and involvement from stakeholders…the priority is a cessation of hostilities, implementation of decisions from the Luanda Process, and ensuring humanitarian access.” 

    He added that the UN Mission faces limitations in M23-controlled areas but continues to protect civilians and reduce violence in other areas, safeguarding hundreds of thousands of civilians daily. 

    Europe faces a ‘cradle to cane’ health crisis, warns WHO 

    And in a medical update on Tuesday, UN health agency WHO warned that countries across Europe and Central Asia have a major problem with “stagnating” healthcare systems.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), almost 76,000 children in the region die before their fifth birthday every year.

    In addition, non-communicable diseases claim the lives one in six people before they’re 70.

    Wide regional variations

    WHO’s latest European Health Report showed that under-five mortality ranged from 1.5 to 40.4 deaths per 1,000 live births across 53 countries in the region.

    The top causes of death include pre-term birth complications, birth asphyxia and congenital heart anomalies.

    Despite much progress in tackling non-communicable diseases across Europe and Central Asia, conditions such as heart and lung disease, stroke and diabetes remain by far the biggest killers. 

    At least 10 countries have achieved a 25 per cent reduction in premature mortality from these four non-communicable diseases. 

    Nonetheless, one in six people still die before they reach their 70th birthday from cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease, WHO said.

    Chad: Nearly four million could go hungry during lean season

    Humanitarians in Chad are warning about the impact of the forthcoming lean season on food security, amid already dire conditions, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said on Tuesday.

    A regional assessment found that some 2.4 million people are not getting enough to eat, which is expected to rise to 3.7 million people, or 20 per cent of the population, during the lean season from June to August.

    More than two million children under the age of five are malnourished, including more than half a million who are suffering from severe acute malnutrition who are at risk of dying in the coming months without the appropriate treatment. 

    Additionally, nearly 300,000 pregnant and breast-feeding women are suffering from acute malnutrition.

    Multiple shocks

    Mr. Dujarric told journalists in New York that “this crisis is due to shocks, including natural catastrophes such as floods, which have destroyed croplands, in addition to the increasing price of basic commodities.”

    Humanitarians warn that unless significant funding is received before the end of March, there will be no time to prevent a full-scale food security and nutrition crisis.

    They are appealing for $1.45 billion to support operations in Chad this year but have so far received under $60 million, roughly four per cent. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Trump’s Gaza reconstruction proposal is unlikely to work

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ali Asgary, Professor, Disaster & Emergency Management, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies & Director, CIFAL York, York University, Canada

    There have been many conversations around U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza proposal to permanently displace Palestinians from Gaza to neighbouring countries and turn the strip into a luxury resort development. Criticisms of Trump’s comments often focus on the proposal’s illegality, immorality and impracticality.

    However, little has been discussed from the perspective of post-disaster and post-war reconstruction. Post-conflict reconstruction, as part of post-disaster reconstruction studies, has a very long history, scholarly literature, lessons learned and is one of the well-studied phases of disaster and emergency management.

    Where to rebuild

    When it comes to where to rebuild or reconstruct after disasters, including human-made disasters such as war and conflict, there are three main options:

    1) reconstruction in the original location;

    2) reconstruction in a new location; and

    3) reconstruction and integration in existing settlements.

    Each of these approaches has its advantages, disadvantages and challenges. One of the key principles of post-disaster recovery and reconstruction is minimizing post-disaster relocation.

    While a significant majority of post-disaster reconstruction happens in the original locations, there has been reconstruction and resettlement to new locations and beside or inside existing settlements.

    For example, after the 1974 conflict in Cyprus, the city of Famagusta was abandoned and residents were relocated to new areas. Relocation after the 1995 volcano eruption that buried Plymouth in Montserrat is another example. After the 1990 Manjil earthquake in Iran, many villages were relocated and rebuilt in new locations.

    Rebuilding in the original location

    Studies show that reconstruction in the original location is generally the most preferred and effective option. People impacted and displaced by war and disasters usually prefer to live in their original community.

    In some cases, reconstruction in the original location may still require some forms of temporary resettlement. This temporary relocation is a preferred option when the affected areas do not have enough space or ability to support the population during the reconstruction period, particularly during debris removal and infrastructure restoration.

    Past reconstruction efforts in developed and developing countries, show that recovery and reconstruction are more effective, democratic and faster when the impacted population is in charge of the reconstruction process, and remain close to their damaged homes.

    The closer a temporary settlement is to the reconstruction site, the better. Proximity allows the impacted population to participate effectively, monitor and benefit from the reconstruction process without distance and accessibility barriers.

    Rebuilding in new locations

    Reconstruction in a new location is usually considered as one of the last options when rebuilding in the original place is not possible due to various hazards like landslides, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, flooding or volcanos.

    This usually occurs when mitigation measures are neither possible nor feasible. This option requires relocating the impacted population and rebuilding everything from scratch. Its success very much depends on the availability of land, resources and the willingness of the impacted population to relocate.

    Even when relocation is the only viable option, impacted people must be fully involved and given discretion regarding their place of relocation. Involuntary resettlement programs are impracticable. Even when the population is displaced, studies show that people return to their original homes if they can.

    Rebuilding near existing settlements is an extension of this option except that instead of rebuilding in a new location, reconstruction happens beside existing settlements to minimize infrastructure costs.

    This option can still be challenging. Implementation can be very complex even when new settlements are in the same country or area. Reintegrating people into a new place, even when they are willing to be relocated, requires many livelihood support initiatives, land availability, legal frameworks for land distribution and dispute resolution.

    Rebuilding options for Gaza

    Trump’s proposal is close to that last option, with three major differences. The first difference is that there is no consultation with Palestinians in Gaza.

    The second difference is that the impacted population will be forcefully and involuntarily relocated to settlements in other countries (Egypt and Jordan).

    The third difference is that the United States would “own” Gaza, and rebuild it for other purposes and uses, not for the benefit of Palestinians.

    As mentioned above, one key justification for rebuilding in a new location is that the original place is not permanently safe. Trump’s proposal assumes that Gaza is not safe for Palestinians but somehow safe for others.

    Post-disaster and conflict reconstruction is not just a physical reconstruction project. Rather, it is a complex, multidimensional process, with potentially very high negative impact if not properly planned and implemented.

    Top-down approaches in post-disaster recovery and reconstruction often fail because these approaches ignore the complexity of the built environment, the local conditions, and the needs of the affected population.

    Displacing entire populations, their economic activities and their social networks and relations can have significant impacts — direct and indirect — on the population and on governments. Community relocation fails because it disrupts social networks, and increases negative sentiments and dissatisfaction with living conditions in new location.

    Post-war reconstruction programmes must be multi-dimensional and based on a clear understanding of local conditions and careful consultation with the affected people. The alternative to large-scale resettlement is to reduce the risks people face in their current location.

    In the past, international solidarity has played an important role in reconstruction. Such solidarity increasingly exists for the Palestinians of Gaza, and with that, rebuilding in the same location can still be a viable and preferred option.

    Ali Asgary 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. Why Trump’s Gaza reconstruction proposal is unlikely to work – https://theconversation.com/why-trumps-gaza-reconstruction-proposal-is-unlikely-to-work-249680

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Regional Dialogue on Social Justice Hosted by India Concludes at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Regional Dialogue on Social Justice Hosted by India Concludes at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi

    Over 500 Participants from Asia-Asia Pacific Region and beyond Enriched Regional Dialogue

    Collaborative Approaches Explored for Responsible Business Practices, Promoting Decent Work within Global Value Chains and Harnessing AI for Decent Work & Equity

    Coalition Partners Reaffirmed the Need for Continued Dialogue And Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration to Drive Global Agenda for Social Justice

    Posted On: 25 FEB 2025 7:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Labour and Employment and Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) in collaboration with Global Coalition for Social Justice and International Labour Organization, with the support Confederation of Industry (CII) – Employers Federation of India (EFI) hosted a two-day Regional Dialogue on Social Justice under the Global Coalition for Social Justice at Bharat Mandapam from 24-25 February 2025 in New Delhi.

    The event brought together more than 500 representatives from Coalition partners, governments, concerned Ministries of Government of India, employers’ and workers’ organizations, academia and enterprises, experts from international organizations bodies and ESIC members and officers.

    Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the two-day Regional Dialogue and launched key publications on  Responsible Business Conduct, Transforming India’s Social Protection Landscape, Compendium of Social Protection in India, and Shram Samarth, in the presence of Director General, International Labour Organization (ILO), Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Ms. Shobha Karandlaje, and Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Labour & Employment.

    The event also marked the 74th foundation day of ESIC celebrating seven decades of the organisation’s service to workers and their families across the country. The highlight of the occasion was the start of the ESIC Special Services Fortnight, a 15-day initiative aimed at enhancing worker welfare. Running from February 24th to March 10th, 2025, this initiative will involve participation from ESIC Field Offices, Hospitals, and Medical Institutions in a series of activities, including seminars, health talks, awareness camps, hygiene education, health check-ups etc.

    Global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders shared their insights during technical sessions to advance social justice in the region. Experts from international organizations including International Labour Organisation (ILO), United Nations India, UNICEF, UN Women and UNESCAP shared crucial insights and global perspectives.

     

    Representatives from Australia, Japan, Namibia, Philippines, Germany, Brazil, showcased their respective experiences and learnings, while participants discussed strategies on empowering the youth to drive sustainable growth for enterprises, expanding social security to informal workers, responsible business practices in safeguarding worker well-being, promoting decent work, living wages within global value chains and human centric approach to harnessing AI for decent Work & equity. Emphasizing corporate accountability and compliance with international labour standards, the discussions reinforced the importance of multi-stakeholder partnership in driving sustainable and inclusive economic growth while upholding workers’ rights and well-being.

     

    Representatives from Ministry of Labour & Employment presented its key initiatives and achievements including NCS and e-Shram, social security coverage and OSH in changing world of work during the technical sessions.

    Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary (Labour & Employment) emphasized the need for collaboration among social partners- industry and workers’ organizations for fostering social justice by promoting sustainable business models, driving inclusive growth and advancing quality employment generation. She further highlighted India’s commitment to leading global efforts on social justice in collaboration with the ILO as well as OECD on the development of an International Reference Classification of Skills and Occupations under the G20 framework.

    In her concluding remarks, Secretary, Labour and Employment elaborated on the strides taken by India towards Responsible Business conduct. She appreciated the efforts of Indian businesses who showcased practices for promoting responsible business conduct by ensuring health & safety of workers, living wages, and youth skilling while expanding social protection coverage.

    Ms. Dawra also emphasized India’s demographic dividend, skilling youth for future of work, quality employment generation, and workforce well-being as top priorities.

     

    Ms. Sana De Courcelles, Director of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, praised India’s pioneering efforts and strong commitment to taking the lead in the coalition as an active partner. She commended India not only for its leadership in the coalition but also for delivering concrete outcomes, fostering tangible actions for job creation, promoting shared prosperity, and encouraging collective efforts for ongoing dialogue.

    Interactive digital kiosks of Ministry of Labour and Employment and its organizations including ESIC, Employees’ Provident Fund Organization, Director General of Employment and Director General of Labour Welfare, received good response from the participants.

    Landmark initiatives of the Ministry including e-Shram, NCS portal, labour reforms Gig & Platform Worker, ELI Schemes, EPFO and ESIC were showcased through digital flipbooks. These engaging kiosks emphasized India’s commitment to leveraging technology to make social security more accessible, transparent, and efficient.

     

    The seminar concluded as the Joint Secretary, Labour & Employment, Shri Rupesh Kumar Thakur reaffirmed the need for continued dialogue and multi-stakeholder collaboration of Coalition Partners to drive the global agenda for social justice.

    ******

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2106221) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates the SARAS Ajeevika Mela organized at Noida Haat in Uttar Pradesh today through video conference

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates the SARAS Ajeevika Mela organized at Noida Haat in Uttar Pradesh today through video conference

    SARAS has a huge contribution in making the Didis of Self-Help Groups millionaires: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

    We should promote rural products: Shri Chouhan

    Visitors of the fair enjoying various products made by Self Help Groups (SHGs) from 30 states

    Posted On: 25 FEB 2025 5:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minster for Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the SARAS Ajeevika Mela organised at Noida Haat in Uttar Pradesh today through video conferencing. Union Ministers of States for Rural Development Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani and Shri Kamlesh Paswan were also present on this special occasion. While addressing the Lakhpati sisters, Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that SARAS has a huge contribution in making the sisters of the Self-Help Groups lakhpatis. “They are getting income through their art. I urge all brothers and sisters to promote rural products”, Shri Chouhan said.

    Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani in his address said that this has become not just a fair but a movement, a movement where women are becoming job providers instead of workers. They are not just housewives but entrepreneurs and not just beneficiaries but leaders of India’s economic progress. Self Help Groups – SHG Didis are now selling products directly to the Government through Government e marketplace GeM.

    Shri Kamlesh Paswan said that SARAS Mela has become an identity for both Lakhpati Didis and Self Help Group (SHGs). This fair is not just a fair but a huge platform through which people are shifting towards organic products.

    SARAS Ajeevika Mela 2025 is being organized from 21st February to 10th March 2025, with the main objective of showcasing the crafts and arts of rural India. For the fifth time, the famous Saras Ajeevika Mela 2025 is being organized by the Ministry of Rural Development in collaboration with National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) with the theme of Tradition, Art and Culture and “Developing the Export Potential of Lakhpati SHG Didis”.

    Visitors of the SARAS Mela are enjoying various products made by the Self Help Groups (SHGs) from 30 states. Handloom, handicrafts and natural food products made by SHGs have been displayed at 200 stalls for exhibition and sale. Apart from this, 25 live food stalls from 20 states are also showcasing their ethnic cuisines and delicious food items at Noida Haat. Around 450 SHG members from across the country are participating in this SARAS Aajeevika Mela.

    The Mela – 2025 is showcasing an excellent display of handloom sarees and dress material from various states. The states showcasing their products at the fair include – Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Mekhela Chadar from Assam, Cotton and Silk from Bihar, Kosa Saree from Chhattisgarh, Bharat Gunthan and Patchwork from Gujarat, Tussar Silk and Cotton from Jharkhand, Chanderi and Bagh Print from Madhya Pradesh, Eri Products from Meghalaya, Tussar and Bandha from Odisha, Kanchipuram from Tamil Nadu, Pochampalli from Telangana, Pashmina from Uttarakhand, Kantha, Batik Print, Tant and Baluchari from West Bengal. .Handicrafts, jewellery and home decor products from different states are also being displayed at the fair. Apart from this, natural food products like ginger, tea, pulses, coffee, papad, apple jam and pickles are also available at the food stalls.

    Arrangements have been made at the Saras Mela for senior citizens, zones for children and mothers’ care. Visitors are also enjoying various cultural programmes every day during the Saras Mela. To develop the export potential of SHG sisters, a dedicated export promotion pavilion has been created at the Saras Mela complex in Noida Haat.

    Launched by the Ministry of Rural Development under Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission, this initiative aims to help artisans and craftsmen to promote their livelihoods and inclusive growth.This will give a boost to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign and his vision of ‘Developed India by 2047’.

    *****

    MG/RN/KSR

    (Release ID: 2106167) Visitor Counter : 23

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Outstanding craftsmanship and international voices: the 5 films up for best documentary at the 2025 Oscars

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Hart, Associate Professor, Film Screen & Animation, Queensland University of Technology

    Oscar-nominated best documentary film Sugarcane. Disney+

    The Academy Awards represent the screen industry’s biggest annual global recognition for the very best of moviemaking. And in these troubled times, many recognise the power of documentaries to transform the world for the better.

    Like last year, the 2025 nominations for Best Documentary are international in their scope, continuing an Academy trend of placing more emphasis on voices outside of the United States.

    This year’s nominations feature a few milestones: it’s the first time a Japanese filmmaker has been put forward, and the first time an Indigenous North American filmmaker has been nominated in Oscars history.

    All exhibit outstanding craftsmanship while exploring intense themes. The following roundup will hopefully encourage you to check them out at the cinema or online, and see why the experts also think they deserve the top gong.

    Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat

    Johan Grimonprez’s experimental essay examines the Cold War politics of the 1950s and 60s. At this time, many African nations were gaining independence from their colonial masters.

    In Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat, the uranium and mineral rich Democratic Republic of the Congo becomes a poignant case study.

    As the first prime minister Patrice Lumumba breaks the country away from Belgian rule, a murderous plot by global superpowers to destroy the country’s newfound sovereignty unfolds.

    And underneath it all: the frenetic beat of jazz as a revolutionary reaction against racism on both sides of the Atlantic.

    A wealth of archival material featuring former world leaders, the Congolese situation, and the musical stylings of Nina Simone, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and others make this documentary effortlessly cool. The edit and sound design has a wonderful syncopated rhythm, revealing fascinating facets of modern history and the scramble for power.

    Sugarcane

    St. Joseph’s Mission was a residential school for Indigenous children in Canada, which closed in 1981.

    When ground penetrating radar begins looking for unmarked graves at the school, Julian Brave NoiseCat – whose father was born on the site – and co-director Emily Kassie embark on a quest of accountability for a myriad of institutional abuses.

    Editors Nathan Punwar and Maya Daisy Hawke interweave archival reels alongside Emily Kassie and Christopher LaMarca’s stark verité cinematography. The film captures members of the Williams Lake First Nation community reckoning with generations of trauma at the hands of Catholic clergy.

    Together, they present some disturbing facts in the film, which won a directing award at the Sundance Film Festival.

    National Geographic has routinely received a documentary Oscar nomination. This film is a challenging topic for Australian and New Zealand audiences. We also have a troubling history with the placement of Aboriginal children in homes, where many faced hardships and mistreatment.

    Sugarcane gives a platform for truth-telling and healing.

    Porcelain War

    Ceramists Slava Leontyev and Anya Stasenko are inspired by the nature of Ukraine and each other. Their friend, and fellow creator, Andrey Stefanov documents their lives on tape after his wife and children flee at the start of the Russian invasion.

    All become involved in active defiance.

    The film combines nonprofessional video, body cams and drone footage alongside wildlife photography and charming animations of Anya’s delicate paintings on clay.

    There are gripping scenes of armed conflict from the viewpoint of Slava’s squad of reservists. These are everyday folks who have become involved in fighting on the ground.

    Porcelain War benefits from a soundtrack composed and performed by folk music quartet DakhaBrakha. This adds an eerie texture to this portrait of hope.

    The film thoughtfully balances light and shade with grace, demonstrating that art remains a potent way to oppose erasure.

    Black Box Diaries

    When her high-profile #MeToo sexual assault case is dropped on the grounds of insufficient evidence, Japanese journalist, director and producer Shiori Itō commences chronicling her journey to justice.

    Deploying abstract imagery over recorded conversations with investigators and witnesses, Itō builds her argument over several years. The passage of time is interspersed with her unfiltered video diary entries.

    There has been controversy about the director including hotel footage of her drugged and being dragged out of a taxi by her attacker, senior reporter Noriyuki Yamaguchi, without permission. Itō had been given the footage for the legal case, but had agreed it would not be used outside of the courtroom.

    The debate has prevented the film from showing on Japanese screens. However, Itō has argued the public good of using this material outweighs commercial interests – especially considering the pressure of Yamaguchi’s influential connections to quell the case, which include then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

    Itō doesn’t shy away from exposing the raw emotional depths of her remarkably brave undertaking against fierce odds, and she serves as an inspiring change-maker we should all heed.

    No Other Land

    No Other Land takes stock of the West Bank situation from the perspective of Basel Adra, who documents evictions of Palestinians in his home village of Masafer Yatta.

    Basel works with journalist Yuval Abraham to bear witness to the army’s gradual destruction of his village to make way for a military training ground.

    No Other Land features some great observational camerawork with many poetic images of resilience. Things kick up a notch when a villager, Harun, is shot by Israeli soldiers while trying to confiscate his building tools. Basel is targeted for filming the ensuing protests – but Adra and Abraham continue undeterred.

    A friendship develops amid the chaos between the Palestinian activist and Israeli reporter, who co-direct and edit with Hamdan Ballal and Rachel Szor. It’s the touching humanity of their relationship that goes to the core of the film; compassion is key to deescalating tensions in the region.

    In Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat, Porcelain War, Black Box Diaries and No Other Land are streaming on DocPlay; Sugarcane is streaming on Disney+.

    Phoebe Hart 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. Outstanding craftsmanship and international voices: the 5 films up for best documentary at the 2025 Oscars – https://theconversation.com/outstanding-craftsmanship-and-international-voices-the-5-films-up-for-best-documentary-at-the-2025-oscars-249151

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK/Egypt: Mother’s hunger strike for imprisoned activist son Alaa Abd El-Fattah ‘could be a matter of life and death’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Laila Soueif, 68, has been hospitalised with dangerously low blood sugar and blood pressure

    She has been on hunger strike for over 4 months in a desperate appeal for her son

    Her son, British national Abd El-Fattah, has still not been released after serving an unjust 5-year prison sentence

    ‘The UK Government must make Alaa’s case a top priority – delaying action any further could be a matter of life and death’ – Sacha Deshmukh

    Laila Soueif, the mother of jailed Egyptian-British activist Alaa Abd el-Fattah, has been hospitalised just hours before the 150th day of her hunger strike in protest of her son’s imprisonment in Egypt.

    Soueif, 68, has lost nearly 30kg since starting her strike in September. She was admitted to St. Thomas’ hospital yesterday evening after her blood sugar and blood pressure dropped to dangerously low levels, her daughter said in posts on Instagram and X.

    The mathematics professor has survived on herbal tea, black coffee and rehydration salts, since September 29th, after Egyptian authorities failed to free Abd el-Fattah on his scheduled release date.

    Laila met with Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday 14th February where he gave his ‘personal commitment’ to securing Alaa’s release.

    Mona Seif, Alaa Abd El Fattah’s sister, said:

    “We are running out of time.”

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

    “Laila’s sudden deterioration in health is incredibly worrying. It should never have come to this.

    “Earlier this month the Prime Minister said he would do everything he can to secure the release of Alaa – now is the time to turn promises into results.

    “The Government must make Alaa’s case a top priority – delaying action any further could be a matter of life and death.

    “The long pattern of successive UK governments doing too little on behalf of UK nationals arbitrarily held overseas must be broken before it is too late.”

    Pressure on Egyptian government

    Laila’s hospitalisation comes after a coalition of 25 organisations yesterday, including Amnesty International called on UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy to use the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) that he is currently attending as an opportunity to lead calls for the release of Alaa Abd el-Fattah.

    The letter – which was organised by FairSquare and signed by 25 leading human rights organisations including Amnesty International, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders, the Egyptian Front for Human Rights and PEN International – urges the UK Foreign Secretary to make a “strong stand” by leading on a joint statement at the HRC, calling for the urgent release of Abd el-Fattah.

    In the letter, the organisations note how the HRC offers an opportunity for states to “make a strong statement condemning Egypt’s ongoing repression”, adding that the Egyptian authorities continue to “crush dissent and stifle civil society, arbitrarily arresting thousands in recent years, including journalists, opposition politicians…and peaceful protesters”. 

    In urging the Foreign Secretary to make a stand for Abd el-Fattah’s release, the organisations say:

    “We remain deeply concerned that Alaa Abd el-Fattah still has not been released after completing his unjust five year prison term in September 2024, particularly given the terrible and urgent risk to the life and health of his 68-year-old mother Laila Soueif, who has been on hunger strike since then.

    “We believe that a UK-led joint statement at the Council would send a powerful message about the importance of Alaa’s emblematic case, and the necessity for Egypt to resolve this immediately, by releasing him so that he can be reunited with his son.”

    The 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council will take place in Geneva from Monday 24 February to Tuesday 4 March.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Ukraine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:

    – Security Council/ Middle East
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Ukraine/Security Council
    – Biodiversity
    – Deputy Secretary-General
    – Senegal
    – DR Congo/humanitarian
    – DR Congo/peacekeeping
    – Chad
    – Haiti
    – International Organization for Migration
    – Financial Contributions

    ** Security Council/ Middle East
    You saw Sigrid Kaag, the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process and Senior Humanitarian Coordinator for Gaza, brief the Security Council. She told the members that this may be our last chance to achieve a two-state solution, reiterating that all hostages must be released and while in captivity, they must be allowed to receive visits and assistance from the International Committee of the Red Cross. And she said that the resumption of hostilities must be avoided at all costs. Ms. Kaag called on both sides to fully honour their commitments to the ceasefire deal and conclude negotiations for the second phase.
    She told the Council that we are ready to support reconstruction efforts, and that Palestinians must be able to resume their lives, must be able to rebuild, and to construct their future in Gaza. There can be no question of forced displacement.

    **Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Turning to the situation on the ground in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs tells us that our humanitarian partners, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health in Gaza, yesterday continued to administer polio vaccinations for the third day to 548,000 children under the age of 10. This represents 93 per cent of the target population. The campaign has been extended until tomorrow to ensure full coverage.
    Since the start of the ceasefire, our friends at the World Food Programme have brought in more than 30,000 metric tonnes of food into Gaza. More than 60 kitchens supported by WFP across the Gaza Strip, including in North Gaza and in Rafah, have handed out nearly 10 million meals.
    For its part, the UN Relief and Works Agency, UNRWA, tells us that its teams have reached nearly 1.3 million people with flour and reached about two million people with food parcels since the start of the ceasefire.
    The head of Gaza’s Ministry of Health has said today that six children from the Gaza Strip have died in recent days due to the severe cold wave recently, bringing to 15 the total number of children who’ve passed away from the cold.
    And the Food and Agriculture Organization reports that last week it delivered animal feed in northern Gaza for the first time since the ceasefire, benefiting 146 families with livestock in Gaza city alongside another 980 in Deir al Balah. So some in Gaza City and some in Deir al Balah.
    Over the past four days, our partners working in education have identified additional schools in Rafah, Khan Younis and Deir al Balah that were used as shelters for displaced people. These schools will be assessed and repaired to prepare for their reopening.
    And turning to the situation West Bank, OCHA reports that the security situation remains alarming, with the ongoing Israeli operations in the north causing further casualties, mass displacement and generating additional humanitarian needs due to the displacement.
    In Jenin governorate, the two-day operation in Qabatiya was concluded yesterday.
    The operation was launched with bulldozers, involving exchange of fire between Israeli forces and Palestinians, as well as detentions and significant destruction of infrastructure, including electricity lines, water lines, and the closure of schools.
    We once again warn that lethal, war-like tactics are being applied, raising concerns over use of force that exceeds law enforcement standards.
    Meanwhile, the World Food Programme said it reached 190,000 people in January with cash assistance and has provided one-off cash assistance to more than 5,000 displaced people from the Jenin refugee camp.
    ** Ukraine/Security Council
    Yesterday, Rosemary DiCarlo, our Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, briefed the Security Council on the situation in Ukraine.
    She said that during these three long years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, more than 10 million Ukrainians remain uprooted – they are either internally displaced or refugees abroad. She reiterated our commitment to delivering assistance to those who need it as we’ve been telling you almost on a daily basis.
    Referring to the Resolution the Council adopted during the meeting, Ms. DiCarlo said that indeed it is high time for peace in Ukraine. This peace, however, must be just, sustainable and comprehensive, in line with the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and resolutions of the General Assembly, including the one that was adopted yesterday morning.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=25%20February%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oB5VuMM8bYY

    MIL OSI Video –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Political courage’ needed to end war in the Middle East: Top UN envoy

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    25 February 2025 Peace and Security

    A sustainable resolution to the war in Gaza and the broader Israel-Palestine conflict relies on political courage from all sides, the top UN official for the Middle East Peace Process said on Tuesday.

    Briefing ambassadors in the Security Council, Special Coordinator Sigrid Kaag emphasised that peace in the Middle East is possible.

    “We can achieve a future where a safe and secure Israel exists alongside a viable and independent Palestinian State. This requires continued, concerted effort, dedication and political courage by all parties,” she said.

    She urged Council members to ensure Gaza remains an integral part of a future Palestinian State, and that the enclave and the West Bank including East Jerusalem are unified politically, economically and administratively.

    At the same time, she said there should be no long-term Israeli military presence in Gaza – although Israel’s legitimate security concerns must be addressed.

    Four key asks

    “We need to commit to ending the occupation and a final resolution of the conflict based on UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements,” Ms. Kaag said, outlining four priorities.

    These include sustaining the ceasefire agreement while securing the release of all hostages and preventing escalation in the West Bank, where violence continues to rise.

    There must be reform of the Palestinian Authority which governs the West Bank and clarity on its role in post-war Gaza; and the mobilisation of financial and political backing to rebuild the shattered enclave.

    Both sides must ‘fully honour’ ceasefire deal

    Ms. Kaag welcomed the release of 30 Israeli and foreign nationals held in Gaza as part of the ceasefire deal – and a further four bodies of those deceased –  reiterating that all remaining hostages must be released unconditionally.

    She condemned Hamas’ treatment of hostages, including reports of ill-treatment and public displays under duress, demanding that access must be given immediately to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to those still captive.

    On the Palestinian side, she noted that 1,135 prisoners and detainees have been released, though reports of ill-treatment during detention remained concerning.

    She also updated the Council on humanitarian efforts, noting that aid deliveries had increased since the ceasefire took effect on 19 January and that medical evacuations from Gaza to Egypt began on 1 February.

    “The resumption of hostilities must be avoided at all costs. I call on both sides to fully honour their commitments to the ceasefire deal and conclude negotiations for the second phase,” she said.

    UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

    Sigrid Kaag, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ad Interim, briefs the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East.

    Rebuilding Gaza

    Highlighting the scale of destruction, Ms. Kaag cited an assessment by the World Bank, EU, and UN, which estimated that $53 billion will be needed for recovery and reconstruction.

    Arab states are leading discussions on rebuilding, with Egypt set to host a reconstruction conference.

    “The UN is ready to support reconstruction efforts. Palestinian civilians must be able to resume their lives, to rebuild, and to construct their future in Gaza. There can be no question of forced displacement,” she said.

    Situation in the West Bank

    While international attention is focused on Gaza, Ms. Kaag warned that violence is escalating in the West Bank, amid Israeli military operations, settler violence and severe movement restrictions.

    “I am alarmed by the killing of a pregnant woman and young children during these operations. Such incidents must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable,” she said.

    She also reported Israel’s advancement of plans for 2,000 new housing units, the continued expansion of settlements and the accelerated eviction and demolition.

    “These developments along with continued calls for annexation, present an existential threat to the prospect of a viable and independent Palestinian State and thereby the two-State solution,” Ms. Kaag warned.

    Regional situation

    Beyond Gaza and the West Bank, Ms. Kaag also addressed both Lebanon and Syria, which have been drawn in and destabilised by the Israel-Hamas-Hezbollah conflict.

    She welcomed the formation of a new Government in Lebanon, calling it an opportunity for stability and urging the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 to prevent further escalation.

    In southwest Syria, Ms. Kaag expressed concerns over violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, urging all parties to uphold their commitments.

    More to follow…

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Sick Politicians Want Killers, Rapists Roaming Our Streets

    Source: The White House

    President Donald J. Trump is removing illegal immigrant killers, rapists, and drug dealers from our streets and sending them back where they belong — but if politicians in so-called “sanctuary” locales had it their way, these vicious criminals would still be free to roam our streets.

    Here is a tiny sample of the illegal immigrant criminals arrested in “sanctuary” destinations under President Trump:

    • In Saint Paul, Minnesota, ICE has arrested a Sudanese national convicted of rape of a victim under 13, a Mexican national convicted of criminal sexual conduct against a victim under 14, and a Laotian national convicted of child endangerment and criminal sexual conduct against a victim under 13.
      • Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison warns law enforcement of “liability if they enforce immigration detainers” and says protecting communities from violent illegal immigrant criminals is “not our job.”
      • Mayor Melvin Carter says targeting violent illegal immigrant criminals is “threaten[ing] our safe spaces” and calls it a “rapidly alarming situation.”
      • Saint Paul City Council Vice President Hwa Jeong Kim reminds constituents that the police department “cannot and does not cooperate with ICE.”
    • In Chicago, Illinois, ICE has arrested a Mexican national convicted of drunk driving resulting in a death (who had an order of removal from 2006), a Mexican national convicted of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute (who had an order of removal from 2022), and a Mexican national convicted of negligent manslaughter.
      • Rep. Delia Ramirez decries how “welcoming states and sanctuary cities that defend our neighbors” are a “target.”
      • Rep. Chuy García says “no one should live in fear” of an “immigration raid.”
      • Rep. Mike Quigley advises illegal immigrants “to become familiar with their rights.”
    • In Washington State, ICE has arrested a Salvadoran national convicted of sodomy/anal intercourse with a victim under 13.
      • Washington Attorney General Nick Brown boasts that “state or local law enforcement” will not be utilized “for immigration enforcement actions.”
    • In Los Angeles, California, immigration authorities arrested a Mexican national convicted of rape (who had an order of removal from 1996).
      • Mayor Karen Bass says “no one should live in fear due to their immigration status.”
    • In New York City, New York, immigration authorities arrested a Chinese national convicted of murder.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) Provides Urgent Medical Support to Ghana to Combat Meningitis Outbreak

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    Ghana is experiencing a worsening bacterial  meningitis outbreak in the Upper West Region, straining the country’s healthcare system as cases continue to climb. With limited resources and rising fatalities, health authorities are racing against time to contain the disease and provide critical treatment to those affected. In response to the escalating crisis, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stepped in to provide much-needed technical and logistical support.

    As cases increased from 42 to 60, with 14 reported deaths, WHO donated 10,600 vials of Ceftriaxone, a potent antibiotic used in meningitis treatment. The donation, valued at approximately $23,000, was officially received by the Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, at a brief ceremony in Accra. The Minister immediately handed over the vials to the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, for swift deployment to affected communities.

    Speaking at the handing over of the items, Dr. Frank Lule, Officer in Charge of WHO Ghana, reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to Ghana’s health systems. He said, “This donation is another testament to WHO’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s health systems. If additional vials are needed, we will be here to provide more support.”

    Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, emphasized the importance of WHO’s support, saying: “We are currently managing several outbreaks, and this timely donation is crucial. I’m about to brief Ghana’s Parliament on our response and will highlight WHO’s support.”

    In addition to medical supplies, WHO has dispatched Dr. Nicolō Binello, a Technical Officer specializing in Meningitis and Epidemic Bacterial Diseases from its headquarters in Geneva. Dr. Binello will work closely with national and local health authorities to strengthen clinical care and response strategies, ensuring effective treatment for patients and mitigating further spread of the disease.

    Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of Ghana Health Service, assured that the donation would be put to immediate use. “This donation will go directly to the affected areas. WHO has also deployed a technical officer to support Ghana’s meningitis response. We are truly grateful”, he said.

    As part of its response, the Ghana Health Service has intensified public education campaigns, urging citizens to seek medical care at the earliest signs of meningitis symptoms. Additionally, treatment for meningitis is being offered free of charge in all health facilities to eliminate financial barriers and reduce mortality rates.

    The ongoing collaboration between WHO, Ghanaian health authorities, and local communities highlights a unified commitment to addressing the meningitis outbreak. Through strategic interventions, expert deployment, and resource mobilization, efforts are being intensified to curb the disease and safeguard public health.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    February 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Crisis in the DRC: what’s happening?

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    This backgrounder was written by Lesley Myers, Editor for UN peacekeeping’s Strategic Communications team. Lesley is a political analyst and strategic planner with over 15 years’ experience in data-driven politics, development, and peacekeeping.

     

     

     

    There’s a crisis happening in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that has led to immense human suffering, displacement, and a deepening humanitarian crisis. It has also sparked fears of a broader, regional war.  

    What’s happening?  

    In January, the M23 armed group rapidly advanced into North Kivu province in DRC’s east, reinforced with troops and equipment from Rwanda’s armed forces, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). The M23 has taken control of Goma, a trade hub with a population of over two million people, and the capital of DRC’s North Kivu province. In its latest push, the M23 has now moved into South Kivu province, capturing its capital city, Bukavu, and reports of heavy fighting continue. 

    The ongoing fighting has left thousands dead and hundreds of thousands displaced,  deepening the country’s already catastrophic humanitarian crisis. Civilians are facing shortages of food and water, overwhelmed hospitals, and a growing use of rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war. They are impeding the movement of UN personnel and obstructing humanitarian corridors as civilian casualties continue to rise.  

    The human rights situation has also deteriorated significantly, with documented cases of forced recruitment, looting of displacement sites, and searches of hospitals and homes by M23 in search of both soldiers and civilians who they perceived to be opposed to their group. 

     

    Who are the M23? 

    The M23 are an armed group that  emerged in 2012 amidst tensions between countries in the region, supported by the RDF. They have been accused of war crimes and human rights violations, and have been sanctioned by the UN for committing serious violations of international law involving the targeting of women and children in situations of armed conflict in the DRC including killing and maiming, sexual violence, abduction, and forced displacement.  

    At the time, the group violently seized territory in eastern DRC but were successfully repelled by the DRC’s national army, the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, MONUSCO, as well as international pressure on Rwanda.  

    However, in 2021, regional tensions reached new heights, triggering a re-emergence of the M23. The group has been progressively taking control of territories in eastern DRC, establishing a parallel administration and levying “taxes” on local populations, while mass killings and rape continue to be reported.  

    The M23’s resurgence has also contributed to the militarization of mining sites in eastern DRC, which is exceptionally rich in natural resources critical to making electronics like cell phones and electric cars.  

     

    What is UN Peacekeeping doing?  

    MONUSCO has been protecting vulnerable populations and unarmed Congolese defense forces who have sought refuge in its premises. The United Nations Joint Human Rights Office receives daily requests for individual protection from social actors who face threats of reprisals from the M23. 

    MONUSCO is also supporting demining efforts, and working to protect human rights defenders, journalists, and members of civil society organizations.  However, the M23 is severely restricting MONUSCO’s freedom of movement, hampering MONUSCO’s ability to fulfill these critical tasks. 

    Other UN organizations like the World Food Programme (WFP) and World Health Organization (WHO), the UN aid coordination office (OCHA), and  UN’s Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF), are also working to provide life-saving assistance to communities in need. 

     

    What’s next?  

    Long-term peace requires a political solution at the regional level. MONUSCO’s leadership is engaging in diplomatic efforts to push for peace. The UN and the Security Council have called on Rwanda to end its support for the M23 and withdraw its forces from the DRC. The UN Secretary-General has called on both countries to remain engaged in peace talks to bring an end to the violence. 

     

    Why have UN peacekeepers been in DR Congo for 65 years? Learn more here. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    February 26, 2025
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