NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: AdaptX Hub

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    AdaptX Hub’s mission is to strengthen community resilience and support climate adaptation through AI and data-driven solutions, innovative risk assessment tools, and capacity-building in vulnerable regions across Asia and beyond.

    DRR activities

    AdaptX Hub’s key activities include:

    • Development of AI-powered early warning systems for floods and other hazards;
    • Climate risk assessments using GIS, remote sensing, and modeling;
    • Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) training and workshops;
    • Technical advisory for resilience planning in infrastructure and agriculture;
    • Multi-hazard mapping and integration into decision-support systems.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Green Transformation and Sustainability Network (GXS)

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    Green Transformation and Sustainability Network (GXS) is a pioneering organisation driving the green economy, circular economy, biodiversity conservation, energy transition, social impact business, climate resilience, climate solutions, technology, governance, investment, sustainable development and green innovation across Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

    The GXS Network focuses on empowering local businesses and communities, building collaborative networks for sustainable living and development. Its primary activities include promoting green economy initiatives, fostering circular economy practices, and implementing climate and sustainable solutions that align with the Vietnamese government and international commitments

    DRR activities

    the Making Cities Resilience 2030 program by UNDRR. It fosters policy, technology, and capacity building in disaster risk reduction for Vietnamese authorities and businesses. GXS founder Son Nguyen has completed some UNDRR training courses in the 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: European Emergency Medicine Society (EUSEM)

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    The European Society for Emergency Medicine (EUSEM INPO) is a non-profit scientific organisation whose vision is to ensure every patient recieves the best Emergency Care in Europe. Beginning as a society of individuals in 1994 from a multidisciplinary group of experts in emergency medicine, EUSEM membership has grown to include 38 European national societies as well as individual members. We represent over  40 000 Health Care Professionals working in the field of Emergency Medicine in Europe.

    EUSEM’s mission is to advance the science, practice, and education of emergency medicine through high-quality, accessible, and evidence-based training.

    EUSEM is committed to strengthening the global emergency care workforce, especially in low-resource and disaster-prone settings, by fostering professional excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical humanitarian action.

    DRR activities

    The European Emergency Medicine Society actively engages in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) through education, training, and community capacity building. Key activities include:

    • Emergency preparedness training for healthcare professionals, first responders, and community leaders in disaster-prone regions.
    • Development and dissemination of evidence-based protocols aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
    • Community-based risk assessments and contingency planning, especially in underserved and high-risk areas.
    • Awareness campaigns, drills, and simulations to strengthen early warning systems and rapid response capacity.
    • Integration of DRR principles into all academic programs, ensuring a multidisciplinary and resilience-focused approach.
    • Active participation in global DRR platforms, such as the UNDRR Stakeholder Mechanism and the NGO Major Group, contributing to international dialogue and policy development.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Tech4DRR: democratizing innovation to reduce disaster risk

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    At a time when the discourse on technology and disaster risk reduction seems dominated by costly and sophisticated solutions, the new Special Report on the Use of Technology for Disaster Risk Reduction (Tech4DRR), published by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), brings “low-tech” solutions to the forefront—highlighting them as effective, accessible, and, above all, life-saving tools.

    The report, developed in collaboration with the United States’ National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE USA), and the Regional Scientific and Technical Advisory Group for the Americas and the Caribbean (RSTAG), also draws attention to a critical gap: developing countries are rarely involved in the design of the technologies they later end up purchasing and using.

    Rather than promoting an exclusively high-tech vision of innovation, the report advocates for useful, context-specific technologies co-developed with the people living in hazard-prone areas. From early warning systems rooted in Indigenous knowledge to community-based data collection tools, the experiences documented in this report demonstrate that simple solutions can saves lives too.

    Tech4DRR emphasizes that technology is not neutral. Tools developed using data, assumptions, and models from industrialized countries are not always applicable in Global South contexts. Constraints related to connectivity, budgets, and basic infrastructure demand customized approaches—not one-size-fits-all adaptations.

    The analysis also notes that countries in the Americas and the Caribbean face significant challenges in accessing robust technologies, many of which were designed in contexts that do not reflect their realities. Instead of shaping the development of technological tools, countries in the Global South often end up purchasing off-the-shelf solutions that fail to reflect their local needs or structural constraints.

    “Technology alone cannot solve the complex challenges of disaster risk reduction. We need inclusive approaches that combine innovation with capacity-building, community engagement, and demand-driven development,” the report states. This call includes the urgent need to democratize access to risk information and promote co-creation models that integrate diverse knowledge systems and respond to specific contexts.

    Nahuel Arenas, Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean, explains that the report is a call to rethink innovation through the lens of local relevance, equity, and purpose. “Technology has the potential to transform how countries address disaster risk—but that potential is only realized when it is accessible, context-specific, and useful to those who need it most. In Latin America and the Caribbean, we must close not only the technology gap but also the breach in participation in its development,” he said.

    “This report demonstrates how global collaboration and strong local partnerships are key to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable communities around the world,” says Shanna McClain, NASA Disasters Program Manager. “When we align Earth science and technology with real-world needs, we can better reduce disaster risk and ensure our tools truly serve those most affected.”

    Key topics covered in the report include:

    • Use cases of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the Americas and the Caribbean, with a critical analysis of their limitations.
    • The importance of designing technologies that account for local capacities, languages, and cultural diversity.
    • The growing role of social media and digital communication in disaster risk reduction and emergency response.
    • Successful examples of simple technologies used in community-based early warning systems.

    Tech4DRR will be launched on July 23 during a public virtual event, with simultaneous interpretation in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. The program includes the presentation of all five chapters of the report and a high-level panel featuring representatives from international agencies, the private sector, and development partners. The event aims to spark an urgent conversation about how to democratize technology for disaster risk reduction, empowering communities and ensuring that no voice is left out of the innovation process.

    This report comes during the final five years of implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, in a context where hazards are intensifying and impacts are becoming increasingly costly. As the report underscores, technology can and must be a tool to transform how we prevent and confront disaster risk—but only when it serves people and their realities. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: CBB 12 Month Treasury Bills Issue No. 130 Fully subscribed

    Source: Central Bank of Bahrain

    CBB 12 Month Treasury Bills Issue No. 130 Fully subscribed

    Published on 15 July 2025

    Manama, Bahrain –15th July 2025 – This week’s BD 100 million issue of Government Treasury Bills has been fully subscribed by 100%.

    The bills, carrying a maturity of 12 months, are issued by the CBB, on behalf of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

    The issue date of the bills is 17th July 2025, and the maturity date is 16th July 2026.

    The weighted average rate of interest is 5.39% compared to 5.28% of the previous issue on 19th June 2025.

    The approximate average price for the issue was 94.833% with the lowest accepted price being 94.732%.

    This is issue No. 130 (ISIN BH0007179565) of Government Treasury Bills. With this, the total outstanding value of Government Treasury Bills is BD 2.110 billion.

    Share this

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Thailand: New amnesty law must clear peaceful protesters of all charges including lèse-majesté

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Ahead of a vote in Thailand’s House of Representatives on five bills to grant amnesty for criminal offences related to political activities, Amnesty International’s Regional Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:

    “Since 2020, various national security and criminal laws have been weaponized to rob Thailand’s peaceful protesters of their freedom, simply for exercising their right to speak out. Now is the moment for the government to make amends.

    “In this pivotal vote, Thai lawmakers must ensure the new law allows for the full dismissal of all criminal charges against peaceful protesters – without exempting the lèse-majesté law.

    “This law should also be an opportunity for Thai lawmakers to ensure that authorities who perpetrated human rights violations against protesters are not granted immunity for their crimes.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Thailand: New amnesty law must clear peaceful protesters of all charges including lèse-majesté

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Ahead of a vote in Thailand’s House of Representatives on five bills to grant amnesty for criminal offences related to political activities, Amnesty International’s Regional Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:

    “Since 2020, various national security and criminal laws have been weaponized to rob Thailand’s peaceful protesters of their freedom, simply for exercising their right to speak out. Now is the moment for the government to make amends.

    “In this pivotal vote, Thai lawmakers must ensure the new law allows for the full dismissal of all criminal charges against peaceful protesters – without exempting the lèse-majesté law.

    “This law should also be an opportunity for Thai lawmakers to ensure that authorities who perpetrated human rights violations against protesters are not granted immunity for their crimes.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Clusters of Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales cases in Princess Margaret Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

    ​The spokesperson for Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) made the following announcement today (July 15):

    Five male patients (aged 65 to 90) of a medicine and geriatrics ward in PMH have been confirmed as carriers of Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae upon testing since July 7. All patients are being treated in isolation. One of the patients has symptoms of infections and in critical condition due to his underlying disease. Two of the other four asymptomatic patients are in stable condition, while the remaining two are in serious condition.

    The hospital will continue the contact tracing investigation of close contacts of the patients in accordance with the prevailing guidelines. A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted:
     

    1. thorough cleaning and disinfection of the ward concerned;
    2. enhanced patient and environmental screening procedures; and
    3. application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene of staff and patients.

    The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Thailand: New amnesty law must clear peaceful protesters of all charges including lèse-majesté

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Ahead of a vote in Thailand’s House of Representatives on five bills to grant amnesty for criminal offences related to political activities, Amnesty International’s Regional Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:

    “Since 2020, various national security and criminal laws have been weaponized to rob Thailand’s peaceful protesters of their freedom, simply for exercising their right to speak out. Now is the moment for the government to make amends.

    “In this pivotal vote, Thai lawmakers must ensure the new law allows for the full dismissal of all criminal charges against peaceful protesters – without exempting the lèse-majesté law.

    “This law should also be an opportunity for Thai lawmakers to ensure that authorities who perpetrated human rights violations against protesters are not granted immunity for their crimes.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Melissa Harris: Shaping NASA’s Vision for a Future in Low Earth Orbit

    Source: NASA

    With over 25 years of experience in human spaceflight programs, Melissa Harris has contributed to numerous programs and projects during key moments in NASA’s history. As the life cycle lead and Independent Review Team review manager for the Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program, she guides the agency through development initiatives leading to a new era of space exploration.  
    Harris grew up near NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and spent time exploring the center and trying on astronaut helmets. She later earned her bachelor’s degree in legal studies from the University of Houston, master and subject matter expert certifications in configuration management, and ISO 9001 Lead Auditors Certification. When the opportunity arose, she jumped at the chance to join the International Space Station Program. 

    Starting as a board specialist, Harris spent eight years supporting the space station program boards, panels, and flight reviews. Other areas of support included the International Space Station Mission Evaluation Room and the EVA Crew Systems and Robotics Division managing changes for the acquisition and building of mockups in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory and Space Vehicle Mockup Facility in Houston. She then took a leap to join the Constellation Program, developing and overseeing program and project office processes and procedures. Harris then transitioned to the Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Project Office where she was a member of the EVA 23 quality audit team tasked with reviewing data to determine the cause of an in-orbit failure. She also contributed to the Orion Program and Artemis campaign. After spending two years at Axiom Space, Harris returned to NASA and joined the commercial low Earth orbit team. 
    Harris said the biggest lesson she has learned during her career is that “there are always ups and downs and not everything works out, but if you just keep going and at the end of the day see that the hard work and dedication has paid off, it is always the proudest moment.”  
    Her dedication led to a nomination for the Stellar Award by the Rotary National Award for Space Achievement Foundation.

    Harris’ favorite part of her role at NASA is working “closely with brilliant minds” and being part of a dedicated and hard-working team that contributes to current space programs while also planning for future programs. Looking forward, she anticipates witnessing the vision and execution of a self-sustaining commercial market in low Earth orbit come to fruition. 
    Outside of work, Harris enjoys being with family, whether cooking on the back porch, over a campfire, or traveling both in and out of the country. She has been married for 26 years to her high school sweetheart, Steve, and has one son, Tyler. Her identical twin sister, Yvonne, also works at Johnson. 

    Learn more about NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program at: 
    www.nasa.gov/commercialspacestations

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Melissa Harris: Shaping NASA’s Vision for a Future in Low Earth Orbit

    Source: NASA

    With over 25 years of experience in human spaceflight programs, Melissa Harris has contributed to numerous programs and projects during key moments in NASA’s history. As the life cycle lead and Independent Review Team review manager for the Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program, she guides the agency through development initiatives leading to a new era of space exploration.  
    Harris grew up near NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and spent time exploring the center and trying on astronaut helmets. She later earned her bachelor’s degree in legal studies from the University of Houston, master and subject matter expert certifications in configuration management, and ISO 9001 Lead Auditors Certification. When the opportunity arose, she jumped at the chance to join the International Space Station Program. 

    Starting as a board specialist, Harris spent eight years supporting the space station program boards, panels, and flight reviews. Other areas of support included the International Space Station Mission Evaluation Room and the EVA Crew Systems and Robotics Division managing changes for the acquisition and building of mockups in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory and Space Vehicle Mockup Facility in Houston. She then took a leap to join the Constellation Program, developing and overseeing program and project office processes and procedures. Harris then transitioned to the Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Project Office where she was a member of the EVA 23 quality audit team tasked with reviewing data to determine the cause of an in-orbit failure. She also contributed to the Orion Program and Artemis campaign. After spending two years at Axiom Space, Harris returned to NASA and joined the commercial low Earth orbit team. 
    Harris said the biggest lesson she has learned during her career is that “there are always ups and downs and not everything works out, but if you just keep going and at the end of the day see that the hard work and dedication has paid off, it is always the proudest moment.”  
    Her dedication led to a nomination for the Stellar Award by the Rotary National Award for Space Achievement Foundation.

    Harris’ favorite part of her role at NASA is working “closely with brilliant minds” and being part of a dedicated and hard-working team that contributes to current space programs while also planning for future programs. Looking forward, she anticipates witnessing the vision and execution of a self-sustaining commercial market in low Earth orbit come to fruition. 
    Outside of work, Harris enjoys being with family, whether cooking on the back porch, over a campfire, or traveling both in and out of the country. She has been married for 26 years to her high school sweetheart, Steve, and has one son, Tyler. Her identical twin sister, Yvonne, also works at Johnson. 

    Learn more about NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program at: 
    www.nasa.gov/commercialspacestations

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Curiosity Blog, Sols 4595-4596: Just Another Beautiful Day on Mars

    Source: NASA

    Written by Ashley Stroupe, Mission Operations Engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
    Earth planning date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
    In today’s plan, we have a little bit of everything. With it being winter still, we are taking advantage of the ability to let the rover sleep in, doing most of the activities in the afternoon when it is warmer and we need less heating. As the Systems Engineer (Engineering Uplink Lead) today, I sequenced the needed heating and some other engineering housekeeping activities.
    We start off with an extensive remote science block with Mastcam imaging of a nearby trough to look for potential sand activity. There is color imaging of a displaced block, “Ouro,” near a circular depression — could this be a small crater? Mastcam also takes a look at a ridge “Volcán Peña Blanca” to look at the sedimentary structures, which may provide insights into its formation. ChemCam LIBS and Mastcam team up to look at the “Los Andes” target, which is the dark face of a nearby piece of exposed bedrock. ChemCam RMI and Mastcam check out a distant small outcrop to examine the geometry of the layers. We also throw in environmental observations, a Mastcam solar Tau and a Navcam line-of-site looking at dust in the atmosphere. After a nap, Curiosity will be doing some contact science activities on “Cataratas del Jardín” and “Rio Ivirizu” bedrock targets. Looking at two nearby targets for variability can help us understand the local geology. Cataratas del Jardín gets a brushing to clear away the dust before both targets are examined by MAHLI and APXS. Fortunately for the Arm Rover Planner, both of these targets are fairly flat and easy to reach.  Before going to sleep for the night, Curiosity will stow the arm to be ready for driving on the next sol.On the second sol, there is more remote science. ChemCam LIBS and Mastcam will examine “Torotoro,” another piece of layered bedrock. ChemCam RMI will take a mosaic of “Paniri,” which is an interesting incision in the rock that is filled with another material. There are also environmental observations, a Navcam dust devil survey and a suprahorizon movie. After another nap, Curiosity is getting on the road. We’re heading southwest (direction shown in the image) about 50 meters (about 164 feet), but we need to sneak between sandy pits and skirt around some terrain that we can’t see behind. The terrain here provides pretty nice driving, though, without a lot of big boulders, steep slopes, or pointy rocks that can poke holes in our wheels. After the standard post-drive imaging for our next plan, there are some Navcam observations to look for clouds and our normal look under the rover with MARDI before Curiosity goes to sleep for the night.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Curiosity Blog, Sols 4595-4596: Just Another Beautiful Day on Mars

    Source: NASA

    Written by Ashley Stroupe, Mission Operations Engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
    Earth planning date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
    In today’s plan, we have a little bit of everything. With it being winter still, we are taking advantage of the ability to let the rover sleep in, doing most of the activities in the afternoon when it is warmer and we need less heating. As the Systems Engineer (Engineering Uplink Lead) today, I sequenced the needed heating and some other engineering housekeeping activities.
    We start off with an extensive remote science block with Mastcam imaging of a nearby trough to look for potential sand activity. There is color imaging of a displaced block, “Ouro,” near a circular depression — could this be a small crater? Mastcam also takes a look at a ridge “Volcán Peña Blanca” to look at the sedimentary structures, which may provide insights into its formation. ChemCam LIBS and Mastcam team up to look at the “Los Andes” target, which is the dark face of a nearby piece of exposed bedrock. ChemCam RMI and Mastcam check out a distant small outcrop to examine the geometry of the layers. We also throw in environmental observations, a Mastcam solar Tau and a Navcam line-of-site looking at dust in the atmosphere. After a nap, Curiosity will be doing some contact science activities on “Cataratas del Jardín” and “Rio Ivirizu” bedrock targets. Looking at two nearby targets for variability can help us understand the local geology. Cataratas del Jardín gets a brushing to clear away the dust before both targets are examined by MAHLI and APXS. Fortunately for the Arm Rover Planner, both of these targets are fairly flat and easy to reach.  Before going to sleep for the night, Curiosity will stow the arm to be ready for driving on the next sol.On the second sol, there is more remote science. ChemCam LIBS and Mastcam will examine “Torotoro,” another piece of layered bedrock. ChemCam RMI will take a mosaic of “Paniri,” which is an interesting incision in the rock that is filled with another material. There are also environmental observations, a Navcam dust devil survey and a suprahorizon movie. After another nap, Curiosity is getting on the road. We’re heading southwest (direction shown in the image) about 50 meters (about 164 feet), but we need to sneak between sandy pits and skirt around some terrain that we can’t see behind. The terrain here provides pretty nice driving, though, without a lot of big boulders, steep slopes, or pointy rocks that can poke holes in our wheels. After the standard post-drive imaging for our next plan, there are some Navcam observations to look for clouds and our normal look under the rover with MARDI before Curiosity goes to sleep for the night.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fires Rage in Arizona  

    Source: NASA

    Lightning ignited two wildland fires on the Colorado Plateau near the Grand Canyon in July 2025 that grew to become large and disruptive. The blazes led to the closure of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, the destruction of dozens of structures, and staff and visitor evacuations from Grand Canyon National Park.
    The MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite acquired this image of smoke spreading from the fires on July 12, 2025. The blaze closer to the Grand Canyon, the Dragon Bravo fire, ignited on July 4, 2025, and flared up on July 11 amid extreme heat and northwest winds that gusted to 40 miles (60 kilometers) per hour. The photograph above, taken from the South Rim by National Park Service staff, shows smoke rising over the North Rim on July 11, 2025.
    According to the National Park Service, the fire destroyed a water treatment facility on the North Rim, which released chlorine gas and hampered firefighting efforts. Other structures lost to the fire included a visitor center, gas station, park service employee housing, and the Grand Canyon Lodge. The historic lodge, built in 1928, was the only lodging available to visitors inside the park on the North Rim.

    Authorities first received reports of smoke from a second fire about 35 miles (55 kilometers) north of the Dragon Bravo fire on July 9. NASA satellites began to detect a fire early on July 10, and the White Sage fire spread rapidly over the next three days in hot, dry, and windy conditions. Standing dead trees left after the 2020 Magnum fire contributed to the blaze’s rapid spread, according to firefighting and forest management teams in the region.
    The OLI (Operational Land Imager) and OLI-2 on Landsat 8 and 9, respectively, captured images showing the fire’s progression on July 12 (above left) and July 13 (above right). Burned area is evident in these false-color images, which show shortwave infrared, near infrared, and visible light (bands 7-5-4). This band combination makes it easier to identify unburned vegetated areas (green) and the recently burned landscape (brown). Bright orange indicates the infrared signature of actively burning fires.
    NASA fire tracking tools such as the Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS), Worldview, and Fire Events Explorer also show the fire’s rapid spread. By July 14, the fire had charred more than 50,000 acres (20,000 hectares) and was 0 percent contained. By that date, Coconino County had issued evacuation orders for communities along State Route 67 between North Rim and Jacob Lake.

    The Bureau of Land Management reported that aircraft, including Very Large Air Tankers, dropped nearly 180,000 gallons of fire retardant along the southern and northern perimeters, helping slow the fire’s spread. Lines of flame retardant appear bright green in the false-color images. (In natural-color versions of the images, those same lines appear red.) The National Park Service photograph above, taken from the South Rim, shows an air tanker dropping flame retardant on July 11, 2025.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Michala Garrison and Wanmei Liang, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey and MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Dragon Bravo fire photo by M. Quinn and courtesy of the National Park Service. Airtanker photo by a BLM firefighter and courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management. Story by Adam Voiland.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fires Rage in Arizona  

    Source: NASA

    Lightning ignited two wildland fires on the Colorado Plateau near the Grand Canyon in July 2025 that grew to become large and disruptive. The blazes led to the closure of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, the destruction of dozens of structures, and staff and visitor evacuations from Grand Canyon National Park.
    The MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite acquired this image of smoke spreading from the fires on July 12, 2025. The blaze closer to the Grand Canyon, the Dragon Bravo fire, ignited on July 4, 2025, and flared up on July 11 amid extreme heat and northwest winds that gusted to 40 miles (60 kilometers) per hour. The photograph above, taken from the South Rim by National Park Service staff, shows smoke rising over the North Rim on July 11, 2025.
    According to the National Park Service, the fire destroyed a water treatment facility on the North Rim, which released chlorine gas and hampered firefighting efforts. Other structures lost to the fire included a visitor center, gas station, park service employee housing, and the Grand Canyon Lodge. The historic lodge, built in 1928, was the only lodging available to visitors inside the park on the North Rim.

    Authorities first received reports of smoke from a second fire about 35 miles (55 kilometers) north of the Dragon Bravo fire on July 9. NASA satellites began to detect a fire early on July 10, and the White Sage fire spread rapidly over the next three days in hot, dry, and windy conditions. Standing dead trees left after the 2020 Magnum fire contributed to the blaze’s rapid spread, according to firefighting and forest management teams in the region.
    The OLI (Operational Land Imager) and OLI-2 on Landsat 8 and 9, respectively, captured images showing the fire’s progression on July 12 (above left) and July 13 (above right). Burned area is evident in these false-color images, which show shortwave infrared, near infrared, and visible light (bands 7-5-4). This band combination makes it easier to identify unburned vegetated areas (green) and the recently burned landscape (brown). Bright orange indicates the infrared signature of actively burning fires.
    NASA fire tracking tools such as the Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS), Worldview, and Fire Events Explorer also show the fire’s rapid spread. By July 14, the fire had charred more than 50,000 acres (20,000 hectares) and was 0 percent contained. By that date, Coconino County had issued evacuation orders for communities along State Route 67 between North Rim and Jacob Lake.

    The Bureau of Land Management reported that aircraft, including Very Large Air Tankers, dropped nearly 180,000 gallons of fire retardant along the southern and northern perimeters, helping slow the fire’s spread. Lines of flame retardant appear bright green in the false-color images. (In natural-color versions of the images, those same lines appear red.) The National Park Service photograph above, taken from the South Rim, shows an air tanker dropping flame retardant on July 11, 2025.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Michala Garrison and Wanmei Liang, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey and MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Dragon Bravo fire photo by M. Quinn and courtesy of the National Park Service. Airtanker photo by a BLM firefighter and courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management. Story by Adam Voiland.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT CHECK: ICE Provides Multiple Meals Per Day to Criminal Illegal Aliens Held at Detention Facilities

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FACT CHECK: ICE Provides Multiple Meals Per Day to Criminal Illegal Aliens Held at Detention Facilities

    lass=”text-align-center”>All detainees receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner in accordance with recommended nutrition guidelines
    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is setting the record straight on NBC’s false claims that illegal aliens who are held at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities are receiving inadequate amounts of food

     
    “Any claim that there is a lack of food or subprime conditions at ICE detention centers are categorically false

    All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment and have opportunities to communicate with their family members and lawyers,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin

     “Meals are certified by dieticians

    Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority at ICE

    Why does the media continue to push the lies of criminal illegal aliens in detention and villainize ICE law enforcement?”

    CLAIM: Detainees say meals are now half the size they were last year, and they don’t receive dinner until midnight

     
    FALSE: Allegations that there are chronic food shortages are unequivocally false

    Each ICE facility’s Food Service Operations Director conducts a review of food portions, and detainees are being fed the portions as prescribed by the nutritionist, based on a daily 2400 to 2600 caloric intake

    CLAIM: A health department report from Tacoma, Washington responded to 57 cases of suspected foodborne illness and determined the illness came from reheated collard greens

     
    FALSE: While the Health Department was notified, the on-site medical team concluded that there was no evidence linking the illness to a specific food item, as claimed by the detainees

    CLAIM: In Winn Correctional Center in Louisiana, a Russian immigrant said he has lost weight due to small portions since being detained

    False: The facility has no food complaints from any Russian detainees

     The Detention Standard Compliance Officer has not observed any food issues or complaints while conducting site visits

     
    CLAIM: A detainee says there is too little food at El Paso Service Processing Center

    False: The dietician-approved meal plan from the El Paso Service Processing Center was recently reviewed and indicates the total caloric intake for ICE detainees at the facility is 3,436 per day—which exceeds the average daily recommended minimums

     
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT CHECK: ICE Provides Multiple Meals Per Day to Criminal Illegal Aliens Held at Detention Facilities

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FACT CHECK: ICE Provides Multiple Meals Per Day to Criminal Illegal Aliens Held at Detention Facilities

    lass=”text-align-center”>All detainees receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner in accordance with recommended nutrition guidelines
    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is setting the record straight on NBC’s false claims that illegal aliens who are held at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities are receiving inadequate amounts of food

     
    “Any claim that there is a lack of food or subprime conditions at ICE detention centers are categorically false

    All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment and have opportunities to communicate with their family members and lawyers,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin

     “Meals are certified by dieticians

    Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority at ICE

    Why does the media continue to push the lies of criminal illegal aliens in detention and villainize ICE law enforcement?”

    CLAIM: Detainees say meals are now half the size they were last year, and they don’t receive dinner until midnight

     
    FALSE: Allegations that there are chronic food shortages are unequivocally false

    Each ICE facility’s Food Service Operations Director conducts a review of food portions, and detainees are being fed the portions as prescribed by the nutritionist, based on a daily 2400 to 2600 caloric intake

    CLAIM: A health department report from Tacoma, Washington responded to 57 cases of suspected foodborne illness and determined the illness came from reheated collard greens

     
    FALSE: While the Health Department was notified, the on-site medical team concluded that there was no evidence linking the illness to a specific food item, as claimed by the detainees

    CLAIM: In Winn Correctional Center in Louisiana, a Russian immigrant said he has lost weight due to small portions since being detained

    False: The facility has no food complaints from any Russian detainees

     The Detention Standard Compliance Officer has not observed any food issues or complaints while conducting site visits

     
    CLAIM: A detainee says there is too little food at El Paso Service Processing Center

    False: The dietician-approved meal plan from the El Paso Service Processing Center was recently reviewed and indicates the total caloric intake for ICE detainees at the facility is 3,436 per day—which exceeds the average daily recommended minimums

     
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Updated Release: Hartford Bakery, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Hazelnuts in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style ½ Loaf”

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    July 11, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    July 14, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesAllergens
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Undeclared hazelnuts

    Company Name:
    Hartford Bakery, Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Lewis Bake Shop

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf

    Company Announcement
    “A previous version of this press release was issued on 7/10/25. This press release was updated to include six additional lots.”
    EVANSVILLE, IN – July 11, 2025 — Hartford Bakery, Inc. is voluntarily recalling six lots of its “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” as this product may contain undeclared hazelnuts. People with a nut allergy or severe sensitivity to hazelnuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.
    Out of an abundance of caution, Hartford Bakery, Inc. is removing all units of product included in the twelve effected lot codes noted below. Hartford Bakery, Inc has determined that no other lot codes were affected.
    The recalled “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” products were distributed in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi retailers, including Kroger and Walmart. The product comes in a flexible plastic bag marked with the following information:

    Lot code T10 174 010206, T10 174 010306, T10 174 010406, T10 174 020206, T10 174 020306, T10 174 020406, TH10 174 010206, TH10 174 010306, TH10 174 010406, TH10 174 020206, TH10 174 020306, and TH10 174 020406 found on the front panel of packaging.
    Net Weight 12OZ (340G), UPC 24126018152 found on the bottom of packaging.
    An expiration date of 07/13/2025 found on the front panel of packaging.

    The recall was initiated after discovering that approximately 883 loaves of bread from six production lots contained visible hazelnuts and were distributed in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” packaging. While the packaging states “May Contain Tree Nuts,” it does not state that it “Contains Hazelnuts.” An investigation revealed an error in change of packaging for a hazelnut-containing bread to the implicated white bread product.
    While there have been no major reports of injury or illness to date, Hartford Bakery is aware of one customer who experienced digestive discomfort after consumption. Hartford Bakery also received consumer complaints from those who saw the nuts before consuming the product.
    Consumers who purchased the implicated products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Hartford Bakery at 1-812-425-4642 Monday through Friday, except for holidays, from 8:00am-3:00pm CST.
    ContactsTracy Wingo1-812-425-4642
    *This updated release corrects the previously reported lot codes.
    Link to Original Press Release

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Hartford Bakery, Tracy Wingo
    1-812-425-4642

    Content current as of:
    07/14/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Updated Release: Hartford Bakery, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Hazelnuts in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style ½ Loaf”

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    July 11, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    July 14, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesAllergens
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Undeclared hazelnuts

    Company Name:
    Hartford Bakery, Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Lewis Bake Shop

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf

    Company Announcement
    “A previous version of this press release was issued on 7/10/25. This press release was updated to include six additional lots.”
    EVANSVILLE, IN – July 11, 2025 — Hartford Bakery, Inc. is voluntarily recalling six lots of its “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” as this product may contain undeclared hazelnuts. People with a nut allergy or severe sensitivity to hazelnuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.
    Out of an abundance of caution, Hartford Bakery, Inc. is removing all units of product included in the twelve effected lot codes noted below. Hartford Bakery, Inc has determined that no other lot codes were affected.
    The recalled “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” products were distributed in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi retailers, including Kroger and Walmart. The product comes in a flexible plastic bag marked with the following information:

    Lot code T10 174 010206, T10 174 010306, T10 174 010406, T10 174 020206, T10 174 020306, T10 174 020406, TH10 174 010206, TH10 174 010306, TH10 174 010406, TH10 174 020206, TH10 174 020306, and TH10 174 020406 found on the front panel of packaging.
    Net Weight 12OZ (340G), UPC 24126018152 found on the bottom of packaging.
    An expiration date of 07/13/2025 found on the front panel of packaging.

    The recall was initiated after discovering that approximately 883 loaves of bread from six production lots contained visible hazelnuts and were distributed in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” packaging. While the packaging states “May Contain Tree Nuts,” it does not state that it “Contains Hazelnuts.” An investigation revealed an error in change of packaging for a hazelnut-containing bread to the implicated white bread product.
    While there have been no major reports of injury or illness to date, Hartford Bakery is aware of one customer who experienced digestive discomfort after consumption. Hartford Bakery also received consumer complaints from those who saw the nuts before consuming the product.
    Consumers who purchased the implicated products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Hartford Bakery at 1-812-425-4642 Monday through Friday, except for holidays, from 8:00am-3:00pm CST.
    ContactsTracy Wingo1-812-425-4642
    *This updated release corrects the previously reported lot codes.
    Link to Original Press Release

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Hartford Bakery, Tracy Wingo
    1-812-425-4642

    Content current as of:
    07/14/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improved trade rules to boost business and growth across the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Improved trade rules to boost business and growth across the UK

    New changes to how the UK Internal Market Act works to benefit businesses across the four nations.

    • New reforms will ensure businesses can trade smoothly across the UK’s four nations, helping them operate more efficiently and with greater certainty. 
    • Changes respond directly to business feedback and are a key part of the government’s Plan for Change to unlock investment and jobs, raise living standards and drive long-term growth.
    • Devolved governments will have greater flexibility to set rules that reflect local priorities, while protecting the UK’s internal market, worth £129bn a year, and supporting a more collaborative approach.

    Businesses trading across the UK’s four nations will benefit from clearer and more certain rules, following government changes to how the UK Internal Market Act works today [15 July]. 

    Following extensive feedback from businesses – including calls for greater clarity, consistency, and collaboration – the UK Government has completed a review of the Act ahead of schedule, ensuring seamless trading between the nations. 

    The updated approach puts business needs at the forefront, while also enabling devolved governments to shape laws which align with their own priorities. A transparent and well-managed internal market will help to minimise the risk of unnecessary trade barriers, providing certainty for businesses to invest, boosting growth and raising living standards as the government delivers on its Plan for Change. 

    In response to businesses’ asks, the rules will now be made in a way that is more transparent, streamlined, and considers a broader evidence base, encouraging open conversations between governments and making it easier for businesses to engage with and understand how decisions are made and applied across the UK. 

    Protecting the environment and public health will be taken into account alongside economic factors when a government proposes excluding an area from the UK Internal Market Act. In addition, if a proposed change has only a limited economic impact, this can now be agreed through a streamlined process. 

    This updated approach will better enable all four governments to agree shared rules across a wide range of areas including chemicals and pesticides and provide more flexibility to legislate. 

    Minister for Trade Policy Douglas Alexander said: 

    “A thriving internal market is essential to the UK’s economic success, so we’ve listened to what businesses want — and we’re acting ahead of schedule.

    “These reforms will keep trade flowing, reduce friction, and unlock growth across all four nations.

    “We’ve also worked closely with devolved governments to ensure they can deliver on their priorities.”

    Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: 

    “Trade between the nations of the UK is vital to the health of our overall economy and a key driver of growth. Businesses want to see devolved and UK governments working together to ensure there are no unnecessary barriers to the flows of goods and services between us.

    “The UK Internal Market Act is key to this, setting the foundations which underpin over £100bn of trade. This new streamlined approach to rulemaking will give businesses the certainty they need so they can grow, invest, and prosper.” 

    This is just another example of how we’re making things better for business, alongside cutting regulation and reducing administrative costs to boost businesses and growth across the country for big and small firms.

    The UK internal market supported over £129 billion of trade between the four nations in 2019 — equivalent to around 6% of the UK economy. For Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, sales to the rest of the UK make up a major share of their external sales — typically around 60%. The reforms published today aim to protect and grow that vital trade, ensuring businesses can operate with confidence and certainty.  

    This announcement follows a wide-ranging consultation launched in January 2025 and a statutory review announced in December 2024. The consultation received almost a hundred responses, from businesses, academics, environmental groups and the devolved governments. The improvements made to the operation of the Act are a result of those responses. 

    Together, these steps mark a shift toward a more business-led, cooperative approach to managing the internal market — one that supports economic growth while respecting devolved powers.   

    Notes to editors: 

    • The UK government is required by law to review elements of the UK Internal Market Act by December 2025. 
    • These changes do not affect provisions relating to Northern Ireland, which are tied to the Windsor Framework. 
    • The UK Government continues to be committed to the Common Frameworks programme and improving transparency and collaboration between the four governments of the UK, which is clearly demonstrated by the outcomes of this review.
    • Further details can be found on the consultation outcome page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Armenia

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Armenia

    Ms Alexandra Coles has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Armenia in succession to Mr John Gallagher.

    Ms Alexandra Cole has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Armenia in succession to Mr John Gallagher who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Ms Cole will take up her appointment during September 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Alexandra Pamela Cole

    Year Role
    2024 to present Pre-posting training
    2023 to 2024 FCDO, Head of Contingency Planning, MENA
    2020 to 2023 Doha, Deputy Head of Mission
    2018 to 2020 Tbilisi, Deputy Head of Mission
    2013 to 2018 UK Mission to the UN in Geneva, Counsellor Specialised Agencies
    2011 to 2013 FCO, Policy Unit
    2008 to 2010 Cairo, Consular Regional Director
    2006 to 2008 FCO, Engaging with Islamic World Group
    2004 to 2006 Islamabad, Second Secretary Human Rights
    2002 to 2004 Sarajevo, Second Secretary Political
    2001 to 2002 Pre-posting training (including Bosnian language training)
    1999 to 2001 FCO, Personnel Management Unit
    1996 to 1999 Tehran, Entry Clearance Officer
    1994 to 1995 FCO, Trade Union Side
    1996 to 1999 Tehran, Entry Clearance Officer
    1992 to 1994 FCO, Finance Department
    1990 to 1992 FCO, Migration and Visa Department
    1990 Joined FCO

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Adult Mental Health drop-in event15 July 2025 The Mental Health Team is calling on Islanders who have used their services to share their views to help develop the service going forwards. They are developing a new five-year strategy for mental… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    15 July 2025

    The Mental Health Team is calling on Islanders who have used their services to share their views to help develop the service going forwards. 

    They are developing a new five-year strategy for mental health services, and it is important that the voice of people who use the services help shape this. 

    A drop-in event will be held between 10am and 2pm on Saturday 19 July at The Diner on New St James Place. 

    Andy Weir, the Director of Mental Health, the Mental Health Team and people with Lived Experience will host the session, which will ask service users and their loved ones: 

    1. What has helped you in your mental health recovery? 
    2. What would you like to see change in mental health services? 
    3. What does good mental health support look like to you? 
    4. What should we prioritise in the next five years? 

    As part of the session an artist will draw pictures based on what people say. Those who attend will also be given the opportunity to draw or write their thoughts as part of the process and snacks will be provided.

    Feedback from the session will be used to form the new Mental Health Strategy which is due to be published in 2026.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Four York parks awarded the coveted Green Flag Award

    Source: City of York

    Green Flag Award at Rowntree Park

    Published Tuesday, 15 July 2025

    Four of City of York Council’s parks have been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award after achieving international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

    The council and Friends of Groups – resident organisations who help maintain and improve the parks – are celebrating after receiving a Green Flag Award for Rowntree Park, West Bank Park, Glen Gardens and Clarence Gardens.

    The parks are some of 2,250 in the UK to achieve the award, which is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

    Rowntree Park (pictured) has taken back the award this year, having missed out on applying last year due to the extended flooding in spring.

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency at City of York Council, said:

    “We’re absolutely delighted that four of York’s beautiful parks have received the Green Flag Award. It’s a real tribute to the dedication and hard work of our staff, volunteers and local Friends groups who care so passionately for these much-loved green spaces. As well as these awards, we are working towards achieving Green Flag status for Hull Road Park in the future.

    “Spending time outdoors is vital for everyone’s health and wellbeing, and Parks and gardens like these are so important as free places to exercise, meet friends or simply enjoy nature – now more than ever. 

    Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd MBE, said:

    “Congratulations to everyone involved in York who have worked tirelessly to ensure that it achieves the high standards required for the Green Flag Award.

    “Quality parks and green spaces like these make the country a heathier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest.

    “Crucially all of these parks in York are a vital green space for communities in the city to enjoy nature, and during the ongoing cost of living crisis it is a free and safe space for families to socialise. It also provides important opportunities for local people and visitors to reap the physical and mental health benefits of green space.”

    The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Accreditation Secured to Support Dundee’s Living Wage City Campaign

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    A local security system supplier has signed up to be the latest business in the city to become Living Wage accredited.

    SPG Integrated, based in the Dundee Technology Park, are a firm who specialise in the installation of various security products such as access controls and alarm systems.

    Directors Billy Robertson and Euan Borland started the business as a result of the collapse of Dundee-based construction services firm McGill. Since then, the business has seen continued growth and is thriving, with plans for expansion including apprenticeships for local young people.

    Both Euan and Billy see paying the real Living Wage, currently £12.60 per hour, as a non-negotiable and while already paying above the rate see accreditation as a benefit to them as they seek new contracts, to retain their current workforce and attract the best talent.

    Billy said: “We are delighted to be part of the Living Wage as we realise that our workforce are the most valuable asset to our company and therefore, we want to look after them in all aspects.”

    Euan said: “We realise that being a Living Wage accredited company will make us an attractive prospect to future employees which helps us continue to build a strong, reliable team as we expand and grow our business.”

    Fair Work, Economic Growth & Infrastructure Convener Cllr Steven Rome visited SPG Integrated office’s, with members of the Dundee Living Wage Action Group, to formally welcome them to the family of over 120 Living Wage employers in the city and congratulate them on accreditation.

    Cllr Rome said: “It was great to meet with Billy and Euan from SPG Integrated and officially welcome them to the Dundee Living Wage family. 

    “They spoke so passionately about paying their staff the real Living Wage and explained the benefits it has to them in terms of staff retention and employee job satisfaction.

    “Our discussions were really informative and will help the action group going forward to engage with and reach out to similar businesses in the sector and those they work with.

    “It was really helpful to hear that despite already paying above the living wage, they still saw the value in becoming an accredited employer.”

    Lynn Anderson, Living Wage Scotland Manager said: “We’re thrilled to welcome SPG Integrated to the Living Wage network of employers in Dundee, as the Dundee Living Wage Action Group unveils its refreshed brand.

    “Employers like SPG Integrated recognise that security and stability can help create a happier, healthier and more motivated workforce and we hope to see many more employers join them in going further than the minimum.”

    Earlier in the year the Living Wage Foundation unveiled it’s a new brand identity with a refreshed design to reflect the scale, ambition and future direction of the Living Wage movement and campaign.

    This visit was the first time the refreshed “Making Dundee a Living Wage City” branding was used after consultation with the Dundee Living Wage Action group and Living Wage Scotland. It’s hoped this new look will help to raise awareness of the campaign while rejuvenating the relationship between the action group and local business to strengthen the partnership between them.

    Cllr Rome added: “As we launch the new look branding for the campaign, I look forward to visiting more accredited employers in the city and proactively exploring with others about accreditation. I would encourage any business wanting to know more to please get in touch.”

    More information about the ‘Making A Living Wage Living City’ campaign as well as contact details for the action group can be found on the council’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: S7 Group and Novosibirsk State University Agree on HR Partnership

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    S7 Group and Novosibirsk State University (NSU) have signed a cooperation agreement. The parties will join forces to train specialists in various fields: business informatics, economics and management.

    Under the signed agreement, NSU will prepare students in its educational programs, taking into account the needs of S7 Group. In the future, university graduates may be employed by S7 Group in the Novosibirsk Region and other cities.

    — We are pleased to start a strategic partnership with NSU, which will allow us to develop highly qualified specialists for the aviation industry. Joint training of personnel is an investment in the future of our industry and the region as a whole. We are confident that our cooperation will become an example of a successful partnership between business and education, — noted Evgeny Chernyshev, General Representative of S7 Airlines in Tolmachevo.

    NSU will develop and implement educational programs and scientific projects together with S7 Group. S7 Group will provide students with the opportunity to do practical training at its sites and will support the development of campus innovations to create comfortable conditions for living and studying. The company will also organize various events at its enterprises: open days, hackathons, lectures – and will take part in the process of attracting applicants to NSU programs.

    — This is a historic event for our university. Cooperation with the leader of the aviation industry will open new horizons for our students and strengthen NSU’s position as a center for training specialized specialists. Thanks to our cooperation, graduates will receive in-demand skills and good employment opportunities, — emphasized NSU Rector, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk.

    S7 Airlines (brand of Siberia Airlines, VBV.S7.ru) is a Russian private airline. The airline has a wide network of domestic routes, built on the basis of air transport hubs in Moscow (Domodedovo), Novosibirsk (Tolmachevo) and Irkutsk. In 2007, the airline received official IATA notification of inclusion in the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) operator register and became the second air carrier in Russia to successfully pass the full international audit procedure for compliance with operational safety standards. In 2024, S7 Airlines carried 12.9 million passengers on almost 100 thousand flights.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sudan: Humanitarian needs deepen amid rising hostilities and heavy rains

    Source: United Nations 2

    Nearly 27 months have passed since fighting broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and a former ally, the paramilitary Rapid Security Forces (RSF), creating an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

    The UN voiced grave alarm over escalating hostilities in El Fasher, the besieged capital of North Darfur state. 

    Serious risk of renewed violence

    Large numbers of RSF fighters reportedly entered the city on Friday for the first time since the siege began over a year ago.

    Local sources report that recent fierce fighting, particularly in the southwest and east of El Fasher, has led to civilian casualties.

    “The situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable, with a serious risk of renewed violence, as well as further displacement and disruption of humanitarian operations – which are already under severe strain,” OCHA said.

    Insecurity in North Kordofan state

    Meanwhile, in North Kordofan State, growing insecurity forced 3,400 people to flee their homes over the weekend, according to the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM). 

    Local reports indicate that at least 18 civilians were killed, and homes were burned in several villages.

    OCHA reminded all parties that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law, and that civilians must be protected at all times.

    Rainy season constraints

    Meanwhile, heavy rains have been reported in West and Central Darfur states, which may affect road conditions in some locations and worsen the challenges humanitarians are already facing in accessing people in need.

    “With the rainy season continuing through October, the risk of floods, access constraints and disease outbreaks is growing – especially during this critical lean season, a time between harvests when food stocks traditionally run low,” OCHA warned.

    Families return to West Darfur

    The agency said that despite the crisis, signs of small-scale returns are visible in West Darfur state, where displaced families have been returning from Chad to three localities – Sirba, Jebel Moon and Kulbus – to cultivate their farms. 

    Furthermore, local authorities report about 40 people returning daily to Kulbus, with 300 arriving over the past week.

    OCHA urged all parties to enable safe and unimpeded access to all people in need across Sudan, and for donors to step up their support.

    Some 30 million people nationwide – more than half the population – need vital aid and protection this year. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: EU proposes new countermeasures amid trade dispute with US

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    This photo taken on Oct. 4, 2024 shows the European Commission building in Brussels, Belgium. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The European Union (EU) has proposed a new round of tariffs on U.S. goods worth 72 billion euros (84 billion U.S. dollars), amid the ongoing trade dispute between the world’s largest economy and its biggest trading partner.

    EU trade ministers met in Brussels on Monday following U.S. President Donald Trump’s surprise announcement over the weekend of new tariffs on the bloc. Maros Sefcovic, the EU’s trade chief, said after the meeting that it was “very obvious from the discussions today, the 30 percent is absolutely unacceptable.”

    He said that the commission was sharing proposals with the 27 members “for the second list of goods accounting for some 72 billion euros (84 billion dollars) worth of U.S. imports. They will now have a chance to discuss it. This does not exhaust our toolbox and every instrument remains on the table.”

    Lars Lokke Rasmussen, the foreign minister of Denmark, which recently assumed the EU presidency, said the bloc views the new tariff as “absolutely unacceptable and unjustified” and is prepared to respond if talks with Washington fail to produce a viable outcome.

    “We are committed to continuing working with the United States on a negotiated outcome,” he said, adding that the agreement has to be “mutually acceptable” on both sides.

    In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday morning, Trump announced a 30 percent tariff on the EU as of Aug. 1, blaming the bloc for causing “long-term, large, and persistent Trade Deficits.”

    “Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from reciprocal,” he wrote in the letter. “The EU will allow complete, open Market Access to the United States, with no Tariff being charged to us, in an attempt to reduce the large Trade Deficit.”

    In response to Trump’s latest deadline, the EU decided to postpone retaliatory counter tariffs on 21 billion euros (24.5 billion dollars) of U.S. goods that had been due to kick in at midnight on Monday until Aug. 1.

    The EU is open to trade talks with the United States for an agreement before the deadline, but won’t rule out taking countermeasures, said Von der Leyen.

    “We remain ready to continue working towards an agreement by Aug. 1,” the EU leader said in a statement. “At the same time, we will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required.”

    The proposed tariff threatens to take a heavy toll on the EU economy. An analysis by the Milan-based Institute for International Political Studies suggested that Italy would be among the EU countries most affected by the U.S. tariffs.

    Under a 30-percent duty scenario, Germany’s GDP would contract by an estimated 0.5 percent compared to a no-tariff baseline, while Italy’s GDP would shrink by approximately 0.36 percent, said the think tank.

    On Monday, the Association for the Development of Industry in the Mezzogiorno (SVIMEZ) released its estimate of the impact of the U.S. tariffs on Italy’s exports, projecting a reduction of nearly one-fifth in export volume and a loss of 12.4 billion euros (14.48 billion U.S. dollars) in trade once the tariffs take effect.

    SVIMEZ also warned of broader macroeconomic consequences, estimating a 0.5-percent reduction in Italy’s GDP in 2026 and the potential loss of up to 150,000 jobs, including some 13,000 in the country’s southern regions.

    “Our government is in close contact with the European Commission and all parties involved in the tariff negotiations,” said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in a statement.

    “A trade war within the West would make us all weaker in the face of global challenges we are addressing together. Europe has the economic strength to protect its interests and reach a fair agreement,” she said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: EU proposes new countermeasures amid trade dispute with US

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    This photo taken on Oct. 4, 2024 shows the European Commission building in Brussels, Belgium. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The European Union (EU) has proposed a new round of tariffs on U.S. goods worth 72 billion euros (84 billion U.S. dollars), amid the ongoing trade dispute between the world’s largest economy and its biggest trading partner.

    EU trade ministers met in Brussels on Monday following U.S. President Donald Trump’s surprise announcement over the weekend of new tariffs on the bloc. Maros Sefcovic, the EU’s trade chief, said after the meeting that it was “very obvious from the discussions today, the 30 percent is absolutely unacceptable.”

    He said that the commission was sharing proposals with the 27 members “for the second list of goods accounting for some 72 billion euros (84 billion dollars) worth of U.S. imports. They will now have a chance to discuss it. This does not exhaust our toolbox and every instrument remains on the table.”

    Lars Lokke Rasmussen, the foreign minister of Denmark, which recently assumed the EU presidency, said the bloc views the new tariff as “absolutely unacceptable and unjustified” and is prepared to respond if talks with Washington fail to produce a viable outcome.

    “We are committed to continuing working with the United States on a negotiated outcome,” he said, adding that the agreement has to be “mutually acceptable” on both sides.

    In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday morning, Trump announced a 30 percent tariff on the EU as of Aug. 1, blaming the bloc for causing “long-term, large, and persistent Trade Deficits.”

    “Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from reciprocal,” he wrote in the letter. “The EU will allow complete, open Market Access to the United States, with no Tariff being charged to us, in an attempt to reduce the large Trade Deficit.”

    In response to Trump’s latest deadline, the EU decided to postpone retaliatory counter tariffs on 21 billion euros (24.5 billion dollars) of U.S. goods that had been due to kick in at midnight on Monday until Aug. 1.

    The EU is open to trade talks with the United States for an agreement before the deadline, but won’t rule out taking countermeasures, said Von der Leyen.

    “We remain ready to continue working towards an agreement by Aug. 1,” the EU leader said in a statement. “At the same time, we will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required.”

    The proposed tariff threatens to take a heavy toll on the EU economy. An analysis by the Milan-based Institute for International Political Studies suggested that Italy would be among the EU countries most affected by the U.S. tariffs.

    Under a 30-percent duty scenario, Germany’s GDP would contract by an estimated 0.5 percent compared to a no-tariff baseline, while Italy’s GDP would shrink by approximately 0.36 percent, said the think tank.

    On Monday, the Association for the Development of Industry in the Mezzogiorno (SVIMEZ) released its estimate of the impact of the U.S. tariffs on Italy’s exports, projecting a reduction of nearly one-fifth in export volume and a loss of 12.4 billion euros (14.48 billion U.S. dollars) in trade once the tariffs take effect.

    SVIMEZ also warned of broader macroeconomic consequences, estimating a 0.5-percent reduction in Italy’s GDP in 2026 and the potential loss of up to 150,000 jobs, including some 13,000 in the country’s southern regions.

    “Our government is in close contact with the European Commission and all parties involved in the tariff negotiations,” said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in a statement.

    “A trade war within the West would make us all weaker in the face of global challenges we are addressing together. Europe has the economic strength to protect its interests and reach a fair agreement,” she said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Earthquakes in Greece – E-002091/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Greece is an active user of Copernicus Emergency Management Services (CEMS)[1], including its on-demand mapping services. For example, in 2024, the Greek national civil protection authority, which is the national CEMS’ focal point, activated the rapid mapping service 14 times.

    For the time being, the Commission has not yet received a request from the Greek national civil protection authorities for CEMS risk and recovery services to monitor land deformation or for drawing up evacuation plans for a potential future incident in Santorini.

    However, Greece is aware of this option and has used this service in the past to develop, amongst others, evacuation plans, for example for two United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage sites (Delphi and Ancient Olympia), and to assess their exposure to several hazards, including earthquakes.

    Under its Cohesion Policy thematic and regional programmes for the 2021-2027 period, Greece earmarked approximately EUR 130 million for the prevention and management of non-climate-related risks, such as earthquakes.

    In accordance with the shared management procedures, the selection of specific projects is a national competence.

    • [1] https://emergency.copernicus.eu/.
    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Postal services to Slovakia return to normal

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    ​Hongkong Post announced today (July 15) that, as advised by the postal administration of Slovakia, mail delivery services to areas with postcodes 93003, 93004, 93006, 93007 and 90068, previously impacted by local control measures after an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, have returned to normal.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –