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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom restructures state government to combat homelessness, boost housing and affordability

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 11, 2025

    What you need to know: As part of California’s strategy to combat homelessness and expand housing, Governor Gavin Newsom is reorganizing state agencies to institutionalize housing, homelessness, and affordability as long-term priorities. The reorganization creates a new California Housing and Homelessness Agency and a separate Business and Consumer Services Agency to enhance focus and accountability across these critical areas.

    SACRAMENTO – Building on the Administration’s efforts to reverse decades of inaction on housing and homelessness, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the reorganization proposal went into effect last week, authorizing the state to move forward and create the California Housing and Homelessness Agency and the Business and Consumer Services Agency. As a result, the state will move forward with the formation of the two new agencies to institutionalize these policy priorities for years to come: The California Housing and Homelessness Agency (CHHA) focused on housing, homelessness, and civil rights, and the Business and Consumer Services Agency (BCSA) is dedicated to business regulation and consumer protection.  

    “Housing and homelessness are complex and multifaceted issues — deserving of full and prioritized attention — something we have established within this administration. I am grateful that the legislature recognized the need for a new standalone agency dedicated to addressing these vexing issues that continue to face our state and nation, so that these issues will never fall into the shadows again. We have a moral imperative to continue this work and to ensure every Californian has a safe place to call home.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Since taking office in 2019, Governor Newsom has created unprecedented policy and structural changes in state government to help California better address its housing and homelessness crises, including additional and unprecedented support for local governments, stronger accountability and enforcement, transformational changes to mental health services, and groundbreaking reforms — including a recently signed housing and infrastructure package that delivers foundational reforms to break down systemic barriers and help ensure California can meet the housing needs of current and future generations. These changes have helped connect hundreds of thousands of people at risk of or experiencing homelessness with vital supports.

    Today’s announcement continues the administration’s ongoing work to increase housing, reduce homelessness, and improve affordability. Establishing a standalone agency provides the alignment needed to speed up the construction and financing of housing under California’s affordable housing programs. This approach aims to reduce, prevent, and ultimately end homelessness, while safeguarding civil rights and reinforcing California’s leadership in consumer protections. The new structure will also create a new housing continuum system to better align housing programs and financing and provide a more streamlined process with an all-of-government approach.

    Creating long-term solutions

    By creating a dedicated housing agency and streamlining consumer oversight, the Newsom Administration is ensuring California remains focused on long-term, scalable solutions that serve current and future generations.

    “This bold plan shows we are being more aggressive in prioritizing change for the better,” said Tomiquia Moss, Secretary of the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency. “This will enable us to better reach our goal of 2.5 million new homes by 2030, with one million of them being affordable housing. I’m extremely pleased the Governor is cementing his legacy by taking the Administration’s accomplishments to the next level, providing the structure to make lasting and sustainable change.”

    The California Housing and Homelessness Agency (CHHA) will concentrate on coordinating efforts across government to tackle housing and homelessness challenges, as well as protecting Californians’ civil rights. In this all-of-government approach, CHHA will utilize resources and expertise within government to address these important issues. It includes the following departments:

    • The Housing Development and Finance Committee (HDFC)
    • Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) 
    • California Interagency Council on Homelessness (Cal ICH) 
    • California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA)
    • Civil Rights Department (CRD) 

    The Business and Consumer Services Agency (BCSA) will strengthen the state’s ability to protect consumers by providing focused leadership and oversight across a wide range of industries, such as occupational licensing, alcohol regulation, cannabis regulation, and financial protection, fostering a proactive approach to addressing emerging risks and needs. It includes the following departments:

    • Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) 
    • Alcoholic Beverage Control Appeals Board (ABC AB) 
    • Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) 
    • Cannabis Control Appeals Panel (CCAP) 
    • California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) 
    • Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) 
    • Department of Real Estate (DRE) 
    • Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) 

    The new California Housing and Homelessness Agency and the Business Consumer Services Agency will become effective July 1, 2026, at which time the current Business Consumer Services and Housing Agency will be dissolved. 

    Reversing decades of inaction

    The Newsom administration is making significant progress in reversing decades of inaction on homelessness. Between 2014 and 2019—before Governor Newsom took office—unsheltered homelessness in California rose by approximately 37,000 people. Since then, under this Administration, California has significantly slowed that growth, even as many other states have seen worsening trends

    In 2024, while homelessness increased nationally by over 18%, California limited its overall increase to just 3%—a lower rate than in 40 other states. The state also held the growth of unsheltered homelessness to just 0.45%, compared to a national increase of nearly 7%. States like Florida, Texas, New York, and Illinois saw larger increases both in percentage and absolute numbers. California also achieved the nation’s largest reduction in veteran homelessness and made meaningful progress in reducing youth homelessness.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: EuroMed Prosecutors General Forum brings cross-Mediterranean partners together

    Source: Eurojust

    Eurojust hosted Prosecutor Generals from six South Partner Countries – Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco and Palestine*- and nine EU Member States – Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands – to discuss the challenges and best practices in fighting cross-border crimes, with a focus on asset recovery and trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. The EuroMed Prosecutor General Forum also endorsed the multi-annual Strategy 2025-2027 with a roadmap for the project’s objectives and priorities.

    The project, funded by the European Commission and implemented by Eurojust, aims at enhancing strategic and operational international criminal justice cooperation. The EuroMed Justice project aims at increased opportunities for dialogue and joint actions between relevant EU Member States and the South Partner Countries, as well as increased opportunities for cross-border cooperation in criminal matters between respective judicial authorities. 

    The President of Eurojust Michael Schmid opened the Prosecutors General Forum: “It has been a great honour to host the Prosecutors General and senior officials from Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, and Palestine*. These past days have confirmed the strong potential of our partnerships and a shared commitment to growing our joint casework. With the 2025–2027 EuroMed Justice Strategy now in place, we are eager to expand our network of Liaison Prosecutors at Eurojust and look forward to welcoming representatives from our Southern Partner Countries in the near future. As a first step, we will facilitate study visits to Eurojust to further build mutual trust, deepen understanding, and lay the groundwork for closer cooperation.“

    The meeting was chaired by Alexander Van Dam, National Member for the Netherlands, he said: “It is crucial for all countries to work together to combat serious organised crime, through direct exchanges and sharing of best practices.”

    The agenda included the project’s results for Year 1 and 2, a presentation from the European Commission on the International Agreements on cooperation with Eurojust, as well as interventions by the Liaison Prosecutors for Serbia and Norway. Participants further exchanged challenges and best practices in judicial cooperation for asset recovery, trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. In the margins of the event, South Partner officials met with the  President of Eurojust. The project team also facilitated ten bilateral meetings between the delegations, representatives of Eurojust and the European Commission.

    The Forum marked the adoption of the 2025-2027 multi-annual Strategy of the EuroMed Justice project. 

    For further information: EuroMed Justice | Eurojust | European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation

    * This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the initial positions of the Member States on this issue.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Georgia: Jailing of teenage protester raises fair trial concerns  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the sentencing yesterday of 19-year-old protester Saba Jikia, to more than four years in prison for allegedly kicking a police officer during ongoing protests in Georgia, Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, said: 

    “Saba Jikia’s trial was marred by fair trial concerns and a failure to apply youth justice procedures, usually available under Georgian law for defendants aged 18 to 21. The evidence against him includes video footage challenged by his defence and conclusions by the prosecution’s expert whom his defence was unable to cross-examine.

    This selective approach to justice is of deep concern. Georgian authorities must immediately end this impunity and injustice

    “There is a wider pattern of protesters being dealt lengthy jail sentences following unfair trials. At the same time, Georgian authorities have proved unwilling to investigate grave violations by police, with no law enforcement officials held to account for widespread ill-treatment of protesters during arrest and allegations of torture in custody. This selective approach to justice is of deep concern. Georgian authorities must immediately end this impunity and injustice.” 

    Background 

    Saba Jikia was arrested on 5 December 2024, a week after mass pro-European protests broke out. He was prosecuted for allegedly kicking a fallen riot police officer. The officer in question – who had not been uniformed during the incident – testified in court saying he had not suffered any injuries.  

    Georgian youth justice legislation requires consideration of the least restrictive measures for defendants under 21 and of restorative justice alternatives. When applying youth justice procedures to defendants aged 18 to 21, deprivation of liberty is to be permissible only as a measure of last resort and for the shortest possible period. However, in spite of the wide application of the youth justice provisions in Georgia’s courts for 18 to 21 year olds, they were not applied in Saba Jikia’s case. Initially, he was remanded in detention in a swift hearing, similar to other remanded Georgian protesters, without due consideration of either the grounds for his pretrial detention or of alternative restraining measures. Following his trial, the judge imposed a prison sentence closer to the maximum penalty. 

    Amnesty International has reported extensively on human rights violations of anti-government protesters in Georgia, including denial of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment, violence by pro-government groups or undercover police targeting opposition activists, and unfair trials. The organization has recently launched a global campaign to Demand accountability and justice for protesters in Georgia!  – Amnesty International   

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: ConocoPhillips’ Frederic Phipps Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Equatorial Guinea Expansion

    Source: APO

    Frederic Phipps, President: Equatorial Guinea at global exploration and production company ConocoPhillips, has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference as a speaker. Taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025, in Cape Town, the event is the premier meeting place for the continent’s oil, gas and broader energy sectors. With various stages of oil and gas exploration, development and production activities in Equatorial Guinea, ConocoPhillips is an instrumental player in the country. As such, Phipps is well-positioned to discuss strategies for enhancing LNG production and exports at a time when Equatorial Guinea is consolidating its position as a major gas hub. 

    Aligned with a goal to expand its global portfolio, ConocoPhillips has committed to positioning itself as a key player in Equatorial Guinea’s gas market. The company transported its inaugural LNG cargo from the country in June 2025. The ConocoPhillips-marketed cargo was loaded from the country’s EG LNG terminal at the Punta Europa facility on June 9, forming part of the broader Gas Mega Hub initiative – which seeks to leverage existing infrastructure to create a regional gas industry. During AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Phipps is expected to share insights into ConocoPhillips’ strategy in Equatorial Guinea, from LNG production to exploration plans to future exports and investments.

    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    ConocoPhillips plays an instrumental part in developing and producing oil and gas resources in Equatorial Guinea. The country operates in both the Alba and Block D production sharing contracts that form the Alba Unit, located offshore Equatorial Guinea. In 2024, the company further enhanced its presence in Equatorial Guinea with the acquisition of independent oil and gas company Marathon Oil. The acquisition – which saw Marathon Oil become a subsidiary of ConocoPhillips – adds to the company’s deep, durable and diverse portfolio. Marathon Oil supports the development of the country’s Gas Mega Hub, with a five-year agreement in place with natural resource company Glencore for its equity natural gas from the Alba field. The agreement optimizes gas operations by redirecting partial volumes from the methanol plant to the LNG facility. The first LNG cargo represents a key step forward in this agreement.

    ConocoPhillips operations in Equatorial Guinea form part of a global strategy which seeks to position the company as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape. Beyond West Africa, the company is strengthening its presence in North Africa, with key investments in Libya. As a long-term partner in the country, ConocoPhillips is targeting increased production through upgrades to existing facilities and investments in underdeveloped reserves. Currently, the company has been gradually increasing production at the Waha concession, which presently produces around 375,000 barrels per day (bpd). Targeting between 600,000 and 700,000 bpd, ConocoPhillips is leveraging collaborations, new workover programs and pipeline integrity to bolster output.

    As the company seeks to strengthen its footprint in North and West Africa, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 offers a vital platform for enhanced collaboration and industry engagement. Uniting stakeholders from both the global and African energy landscapes, the event seeks to drive investment into African energy by providing a platform for engagement and dealmaking. Phipps’ participation underscores ConocoPhillips’ commitment to investing in oil and gas production in Africa and is poised to unlock new opportunities for industry growth in Africa.

    “ConocoPhillips continues to play a major role in increasing African oil and gas production. Through strategic investments in Libya and an expanded presence in Equatorial Guinea, the company is creating greater value from the continent’s oil and gas resources. Looking ahead, these investments are expected to fuel the next era of industry development as Africa seeks to make energy poverty history through accelerated hydrocarbon production,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Gabon’s Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Power Expansion

    Source: APO


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    Philippe Tonangoye, Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy of Gabon, will participate at the African energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025. His participation comes as Gabon implements an aggressive strategy to enhance access to water and energy, with strategic investments and partnerships in infrastructure, power and local businesses. His insights will support future investments as project developers, financiers and global partners convene in Cape Town to discuss strategies for making energy poverty history.

    For Gabon, natural gas has emerged as a cornerstone of the country’s petroleum and power development. The country aims to utilize its offshore resources to drive economic growth, leveraging investments in gas-to-power and floating power generation solutions to enhance energy access country-wide. The country’s long-awaited Orinko gas-to-power plant is on track to start construction soon, with a Shareholders’ Agreement signed in May 2025 to advance the project. The project is expected to play a vital role in expanding Gabonese power access, as it will boost the country’s generation capacity by 50%. Developed by Orinko SPV – comprising the state-owned Gabon Power Company in partnership with Wärtsilä, Africa 50, FGIS and Melec PowerGen – the project will be constructed under a build-own-operate-transfer IPP model. Otinko will utilize offshore gas resources as feedstock to produce electricity, laying the foundation for greater generating capacity in Gabon. At present, gas power plants operated by independent oil and gas company Perenco account for 70% of the power in Libreville and 100% of the power in Port-Gentil. With the Orinko facility, Gabon will be well-positioned to significantly enhance access.

    Beyond natural gas, Gabon is spearheading a pipeline of renewable energy developments, seeking to enhance access to both grid-connected and off-grid power in pursuit of universal access by 2030. The Orinko milestone follows the start of operations at energy company Karpowership’s floating power plants in Gabon in February 2025. The plants provide electricity to the capital city of Libreville and other regions, thereby boosting the power grid while offering a clean source of power to underserves communities. Karpowership signed a contract in 2024 with Gabon to provide 250 MW of electricity to the country for a period of five years. The company has been supplying 25% of the country’s total electricity via two powership situated at different locations. These solutions represent a flexible and scalable option for Gabon as it strives to enhance access to electricity through modernized infrastructure solutions. Meanwhile, Gabon is investing in new hydropower projects. Currently approximately half of the power consumed in the country is derived from hydro, largely from the Grand Poubara Hydroelectric Dam (160 MW) and Kinguele Aval Hydroelectric Dam (70 MW). However, to achieve its energy goals, much more investment is needed across the power market.

    To further support project development, Gabon established a National Fund for Energy and Water (FNEE) in 2025, aimed at mobilizing capital for energy and water projects. The FNEE will address power outages by implementing short-term measures, driving key infrastructure investments and boosting regional energy cooperation. The fund also seeks to revive delayed power projects, including the 125 MW Owendo thermal power station – planned for 2027 -, the Ngoulmendjim and L’impératrice Eugénie hydroelectric plants. The fund falls under the country’s broader National Development Plan for Transition, with the three projects alone requiring an estimated $453 million to develop. This highlights a strategic opportunity for investors and projects developers seeking to make impactful investments in Africa.

    “Gabon’s strategy to achieve universal access to electricity is expected to unlock a wealth of economic and development opportunities for the country. By utilizing a variety of different power generation solutions – from gas-to-power to floating facilities to hydroelectric projects and renewables – the country is diversifying and strengthening its portfolio of power facilities. This approach not only creates greater opportunities for energy access but opens up the market to a variety of investors and project developers,” states Ore Onagbesan, Program Director, AEW: Invest in African Energies.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit https://AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Announces Expedited Assistance for Vermont Farmers Impacted by Natural Disasters 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    BURLINGTON, VT – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) announced that Vermont farmers and producers affected by crop losses from natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can now submit applications for assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Supplemental Disaster Relief Program. More than $16 billion in aid, made possible by the American Relief Act, 2025, will support farmers across the U.S., including in Vermont, who suffered agricultural and revenue losses due to natural disasters. This funding for farmers was a priority championed by Senator Welch. 
    Vermont producers impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can learn more about applying for USDA disaster relief payments here. 
    “After brutal flooding wreaked havoc across Vermont in 2023 and again in 2024, I promised our farmers the federal government would be there to help. This funding will provide more than $16 billion to producers across the country who were victim to natural disasters—including those hit hard by flooding in the Green Mountain State. I’ll keep working with USDA to get more disaster aid to Vermont’s impacted farms,” said Senator Welch. 
    This funding is currently only open to those who received assistance through crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance program in 2023 and 2024. Sign-ups are happening in-person at the county offices of the Farm Service Agency, and pre-filled applications were mailed out to eligible producers earlier this week. USDA will share additional information on how producers that suffered shallow or uncovered losses can apply for assistance later this year. 
    Further USDA disaster assistance information can be found on farmers.gov, including the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet, Loan Assistance Tool, and the FarmRaise online FSA education hub. Payment details will be updated here weekly. For more information, Vermont farmers can contact their local USDA Service Center. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement on Trump’s Escalation of Trade War with Canada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    BURLINGTON, VT—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following reaction to President Trump’s threat to impose a 35% tariff on Canada, beginning August 1, 2025: 
    “The president’s unnecessary trade war with Canada has already hurt Vermont’s businesses, farmers, and manufacturers—this escalation will only throw fuel on the fire.  
    “Canada is Vermont’s top trading partner, and the same is true of 34 states. Canada is our friend and our neighbor. This uncertainty is disruptive and detrimental to our economy. Tourism in Vermont from Canada has dramatically decreased as a result of the president’s careless rhetoric, hurting hotels, restaurants, and downtowns. Manufacturers are cutting their workforce. Farmers are paying more for fertilizer. Tariffs are taxes, and the president is threatening to raise taxes on American consumers.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Democratic Republic of the Congo formally accepts WTO Agreements on Fisheries Subsidies, Trade Facilitation

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “I am very grateful to the Democratic Republic of the Congo for joining so many other WTO members in taking this step to protect the global commons. We are now just seven ratifications away from the entry into force of this landmark Agreement to curb harmful fisheries subsidies and better preserve our oceans!” 

    Minister Kahongya said: “By ratifying the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reaffirms its commitment to the principles of multilateralism and to ensuring sustainable management of the world’s marine resources. The ratification reflects our country’s determination to contribute actively to preserving the environment, combating overfishing and promoting international trade based on equity, sustainability and solidarity. We also hope that the implementation of this crucial international legal instrument will allow the Democratic Republic of the Congo to participate more actively in world trade.”

    The Director-General also received from the Democratic Republic of Congo its acceptance of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).  Concluded in 2013, the TFA contains provisions for expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods which will enhance regional trade integration and connectivity.

    Formal acceptances from two-thirds of WTO members are required for the Agreement to enter into force — representing 111 members. The list of the 104 WTO members which have deposited their instruments of acceptance with the WTO is available here.

    At the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) held in Geneva in June 2022, ministers adopted by consensus the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, setting new, binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful fisheries subsidies. The Agreement prohibits subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, for fishing overfished stocks, and for fishing on the unregulated high seas.

    Ministers also recognized the needs of developing economies and least-developed countries by establishing a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity-building to help governments that have formally accepted the Agreement to implement the new obligations.

    The Fish Fund launched a Call for Proposals on 6 June, inviting developing economies and LDCs that have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies to submit requests for project grants aimed at helping them implement the Agreement. The WTO Fish Fund portal can be found here.

    WTO members also agreed at MC12 to continue negotiating on remaining fisheries subsidies issues. The objective is to find consensus on additional provisions to further strengthen the disciplines on fisheries subsidies.

    Information for members on how to accept the Protocol of Amendment is available here.

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Public procurement as key tool to tackle health issues discussed at WHO-WIPO-WTO webinar

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Public procurement as key tool to tackle health issues discussed at WHO-WIPO-WTO webinar

    The event also presented procurement as a mechanism for fostering innovation, technology transfer and local manufacturing.
    Clive Ondari from the WHO Secretariat noted that in many countries, access to medical technologies is driven by public procurement as pharmaceuticals are often made available through public funding or subsidies.To ensure efficient procurement, systems must rely on quality medical products obtained in a timely manner in the required quantities and at affordable prices. These elements are particularly important in the health sector given the large expenditures, with some programmes paying considerably more than necessary for medicines.
    Amy Dietterich from the WIPO Secretariat emphasized the role of collaboration and tailored strategies to ensure procurement serves as an effective tool for innovation and access. Learning how governments develop laws and policies, how different initiatives determine strategies and priorities to support procurement practices, and how this tool benefits from an integrated view of public health, intellectual property (IP), and trade is important.
    Roger Kampf from the WTO Secretariat highlighted the importance of a cross-disciplinary approach, including IP, procurement and competition frameworks to effectively address global health challenges. He noted that beyond obtaining best value for money, sound procurement can foster technology transfer, boost local manufacturing capacities and strengthen research and development (R&D) capacities as well as supply chain resilience.
    The webinar featured presentations examining the health, IP and trade dimensions of public procurement alongside case studies from experts representing various regional and local mechanisms, who highlighted their respective approaches to public procurement.
    Lisa Hedman from the WHO Secretariat highlighted procurement as a lever in the context of the WHO Roadmap on Access to Medicines 2025 – 2030 to improve affordability, availability, accessibility and acceptability for health products and technologies.
    Giovanni Napolitano from the WIPO Secretariat explained the role of public procurement as a key driver of innovation in the healthcare area. IP may influence access, pricing and innovation by informing who holds rights to key technologies (patent landscapes), delimiting freedom to operate and avoiding IP infringement, encouraging voluntary licensing for broader access, and assessing the impact of data exclusivity on competition. Well-designed, pro-competitive tenders are essential for rewarding R&D, preventing monopolies and improving access. He emphasized the importance of IP due diligence early in procurement processes, building capacity for IP management within agencies and fostering public-private partnerships around IP.
    Astghik Solomonyan from the WTO Secretariat addressed the benefits of combining pooled public procurement with international trade. At the country level, pooled procurement with its implied larger orders and trade agreements (e.g. the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement 2012) with their market access and good governance guarantees can attract international suppliers offering competitive prices or superior quality. At the international level, recent experience has highlighted the importance of global supply chain resilience. Trade agreements provide international suppliers with the market access needed to establish additional production and distribution facilities while pooled procurement helps to generate the level of demand necessary to keep such facilities operational.
    Lucia Rizka Andalucia, Ministry of Health Indonesia representative, shared how the country has strategically positioned public procurement as a key instrument to drive national innovation and industrial development by boosting local production, ensuring market access for domestic products and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders.
    The representative of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Santiago Cornejo, explained the Revolving Fund mechanism, which enables countries across the Americas to access quality vaccines, essential medicines and health products, including diagnostics, using pooled procurement, which consolidates reliable and predictable demand from member states. He also mentioned the reorientation of the Fund in response to COVID-19 toward supporting innovation, technology transfer and local manufacturing.
    The EU Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) representative, Katarzyna Motyka, presented the EU joint procurement mechanism based on the lessons learned from COVID-19. She highlighted how the mechanism ensures equitable access to essential health products among member states, complements national initiatives and strengthens public procurement systems across Europe on a voluntary basis.
    The representative of the Gulf Health Council, Fathi Alkathiry, clarified how the Gulf Joint Procurement Program has, through the years, developed efficient decision-making processes for a multi-country pooled procurement tendering to facilitate the procurement of medicines and medical supplies. The Gulf Cooperation Council has also taken measures to promote local manufacturing, including the use of procurement to develop local industries. These efforts have contributed to regional growth in the industrial sector. In 2024, the Gulf region counted 74 pharmaceutical factories and 140 medical supply factories.
    Lastly, the representative from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and Regional Economic Communities, Wesley Ronoh, shared Africa’s experience with public procurement, highlighting the role of the East African Community, Southern African Development Community, and Economic Community of West African States in fostering collaboration. He further noted that public procurement plays a critical role in national health strategies in Africa as an estimated 40% of health spending in many African countries occurs through it. The African Pooled Procurement Mechanism, established in 2024, was also presented.
    The video recording of the webinar is available here.
    Trilateral collaboration of WHO, WIPO and WTO
    The secretariats of the WHO, WIPO and the WTO organize capacity building and technical assistance activities on current issues to enhance the flow of updated and technical information related to innovation and access to health technologies. The objective of the Trilateral Cooperation workshops and webinars is to strengthen the capacity of law and policymakers and experts in member governments by facilitating access to expertise, data and evidence and deepen discussions of critical issues at the intersection of public health, IP and trade.

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members address trade concerns, current trade tensions at Goods Council meeting

    Source: World Trade Organization

    Trade concerns

    The CTG reviewed 36 trade concerns, with a new concern raised by Australia regarding India’s certification process for cotton bales (Quality Control Order) 2023. It also considered, under other business, a request by the Republic of Korea to discuss the United Kingdom’s safeguard measure on certain steel products.  

    Trade concerns previously raised in the CTG have covered a wide range of measures relating to trade in goods across the WTO membership, including non-tariff barriers, environmental policies, import taxes, import/export restrictions, national security measures, halal certification, subsidy schemes, export controls, sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, discriminatory domestic taxes, administrative procedures and reciprocal tariffs.

    They have also encompassed a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, semi-conductors and semi-conductor-manufacturing equipment, shipbuilding and food products as well as specific products, such as critical minerals, electric vehicles, electric batteries, liquors, air conditioners, apples and pears, cheese, pulses, cosmetics and tyres.

    Current trade tensions

    The United States made a statement in response to the notifications by the European Union, India, Japan and the United Kingdom proposing to suspend concessions under Article 8.2 of the WTO’s Agreement on Safeguards in response to US tariff measures (G/C/W/863, G/C/W/864, G/C/W/865, G/C/W/866).

    The United States said the tariffs imposed by President Trump were taken under Section 232, a national security statute, and the US was maintaining these actions pursuant to the essential security exception in Article XXI of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994. As these actions are not safeguard measures, the US said, the suspension of concessions under the Agreement on Safeguards was not applicable.

    The EU, India, Japan and the United Kingdom took the floor to explain that they considered the characteristics of the measures as those of safeguards and thus had reserved their rights to suspend concessions under the Safeguards Agreement, without prejudice to ongoing negotiations.

    Canada, the European Union and Norway made statements regarding the fragmentation of global trade through tariffs and the resulting global costs. They said the recent tariffs announced or implemented by the United States continued to severely disrupt global trade and undermine predictability in the international trading system, with rising economic costs across the globe for consumers and companies. They also voiced their support for the multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core, but also recognized the need for reform of the organization and its rules to reflect today’s economic realities.

    Thirteen other WTO members took the floor to comment on the item, including the United States, which considered that the trading system had been unable to address trade imbalances and non-market policies and practices.  The US called for WTO reform, based on fairness and reciprocity.

    Improving the functioning of the Council for Trade in Goods

    The Chair of the CTG, Ambassador Gustavo Nerio Lunazzi (Argentina), reported on his consultations with members on improving the functioning of the CTG. Recommendations from members included enhancing the value of trade concerns discussions by focusing on their political aspects, avoiding repetition on technical issues raised at subsidiary bodies, and encouraging bilateral engagement. Members also proposed improving transparency through better use of digital tools, more effective notification processes and regular reporting on thematic sessions.

    The Chair recommended continuing discussions in an informal meeting in September to further explore these ideas and foster inclusive, member-driven engagement. Ten members made statements under this agenda item, supporting the Chair’s report and suggestions.

    Following on from discussions that took place earlier in the year, the CTG adopted a decision on the recording of the resolution of trade concerns, which takes into account the practices of the WTO’s Committees on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT). Three members took the floor to express their support for the draft as a positive symbol and move towards the Council’s further efficiency. 

    Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act

    Members considered a request from the United States for a waiver from WTO rules for trade preferences provided under the Caribbean Basin Recovery Act.  The United States noted the waiver is similar to the one the CTG approved in 2019, except for programmes related to Haiti that have yet to receive the necessary legislative re-authorization. The initiative creates opportunities to expand trade between the United States and the Caribbean, thus promoting economic opportunity and growth in the region, the US added.

    Several Caribbean members took the floor, encouraging members to favourably consider the request.  The CTG agreed to forward the draft decision to the General Council so it can be considered at its upcoming meeting.

    Next meeting

    The next formal meeting of the Council for Trade in Goods will take place on 27-28 November, and the next informal meeting is scheduled for 24 September.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Career Built on Helping Others: Cory Chovanec’s Journey in Weatherization

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL Researcher Uses His Field Experience To Help Increase Energy Affordability for Americans Through the Weatherization Assistance Program

    Cory Chovanec leans on a ladder outside a house he is weatherizing. This photo was taken early in Chovanec’s career, between 1998 and 2008. Photo from Cory Chovanec, NREL

    At 17 years old, NREL researcher Cory Chovanec was traveling door to door in his hometown of Berlin, Wisconsin. His mission: to sell enough vacuum cleaners to qualify for an all-expenses-paid trip to Lake Tahoe. At around $1,000 dollars a pop and in a town of just over 5,000 people, it was no easy feat.

    Yet he managed to sell them all—sending both him and his sister on a free vacation.

    “I think if you can sell Kirby vacuums at that price in the ’90s, you can do just about anything,” Chovanec said.

    After following a career path in the weatherization and home performance industry from entry level to a position at a national laboratory, Chovanec found that he really could do just about anything—from crawling through cold, uninsulated subspaces and hot attics to inspecting hundreds of homes with advanced diagnostic equipment.

    Now serving as weatherization team lead at NREL, Chovanec has worked in many different roles supporting the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). The program aims to reduce energy costs for low-income households by increasing home energy efficiency. Weatherization saves money for families and enhances health, home comfort, and safety.

    In his nearly four years at NREL, Chovanec has contributed to and led technical assistance, research, and resource development to support WAP, leveraging his extensive experience to ensure these activities benefit field staff and aid in their work improving energy affordability across the country.

    Bit by the Weatherization Bug

    Chovanec did not even know what weatherization was until after high school, when he started working for a local temporary employment agency. One day, they placed him at a community action agency, where he filled in as a weatherization technician.

    Cory Chovanec holds up the damaged door of a manufactured home and the new one he replaced it with. This photo was taken early in Chovanec’s career, between 1998 and 2008. Photo from Cory Chovanec, NREL

    “I didn’t see this as a career. I thought these people were crazy, crawling around attics and everything,” Chovanec said.

    Chovanec was in a Wisconsin farmhouse in the middle of winter when he began to feel the impact of the work “click” for him. It was his first time insulating an attic on his own, and the space was almost unbearably hot because of the lack of insulation. This meant that a large amount of heat was escaping out from the living space, ultimately costing the kind, elderly owners more money to warm their home. As he carried out his work, blowing 13 to 14 inches of insulation over the attic floor, he noticed the attic change from hot to cold. With less heat escaping into the attic, the owners would need less energy to warm their home—greatly reducing their energy bills. 

    Chovanec was hooked. “It was then I could actually feel that this work really does make a difference,” he said.

    Workers in the industry describe this feeling as “getting bit by the weatherization bug.” The work is physically taxing, but Chovanec feels the reward goes far beyond a paycheck. Weatherization technicians and energy auditors are regularly exposed to the extreme heat and cold, exploring all the unseen and potentially hazardous places in a home. Yet Chovanec believed strongly in the WAP mission, saving money on energy bills, and helping people be comfortable and safe in their homes.

    Without prior knowledge of building science or weatherization work, Chovanec learned on the job. Absorbing skills and knowledge through every task and mentorship experience, he accepted a full-time role and climbed the career ladder at the community action agency, eventually accepting a position at a weatherization training center.

    Weatherization training centers provide structured hands-on training opportunities to workers in the weatherization and home performance industry. Chovanec’s main roles at the center were to provide building science training and perform quality control inspections for the state. These inspections help ensure the appropriateness and quality of the work completed on the home by installers and technicians. Chovanec estimates he visited all 72 counties of Wisconsin at least once to perform inspections during his 10-plus years at the center.

    “One of the best things was going back to do a post-weatherization inspection and hearing nothing but good things,” Chovanec said. “Their bills are going down, their house is more comfortable, they physically feel better—it’s just a dose of good news.”

    For Chovanec, home energy auditing is a passion, not just a job. An energy audit consists of a thorough examination to identify potential comfort or safety problems and energy-saving opportunities. He works on his field skills in his free time, taking the four-hour energy auditor recertification field exam every three years. He has now passed the exam five times and enjoys providing home assessments for his friends and family.

    While an energy audit might provide homeowners with the most comprehensive look at ways to cut energy costs in their home, Chovanec emphasized that there are simple steps people can take to minimize energy use and lower bills. Even just ensuring that lights are off in empty rooms and the thermostat is adjusted when you are out of the house can make a difference.

    “When you were a kid and your parents told you to turn the light off when you’re not in the room: That is real, and it helps,” Chovanec said. “We all have control over small things like that, and if we want to save some money on a utility bill, we can achieve that without extensive training.”

    Translating Field Experience Into Valuable Workforce Resources

    In keeping with his unique ability to simplify complex concepts, Chovanec’s favorite projects examine the most technical aspects of weatherization work to streamline them or make them easier to understand.

    One of these projects includes the development of two interactive 3D houses, providing virtual examples of a single-family and manufactured home. These learning tools allow users to explore relevant retrofit strategies and common weatherization measures for different areas of the home, all with a few clicks of their mouse. Chovanec used his field experience to accurately represent the spaces.

    “When thinking about developing resources for the weatherization network, you have to think about how it will look in the hands of the people actually doing the work,” Chovanec said.

    Cory Chovanec explains how to inspect a crawlspace to fellow NREL employees Juliana Williams and Alexa Carrera. Photo by Janna Babad, NREL

    Chovanec also assists volunteer expert committees with updating job task analyses for energy auditor and quality control inspector certification schemes, the role that introduced him to NREL when he volunteered to serve on the update committee as a subject matter expert. These resources are updated roughly every five years with weatherization industry feedback.

    “We are really working to improve the foundational components of credentials through each update cycle, and this is clear with each iteration,” Chovanec said. “The program is always evolving in a way that puts an emphasis on high-quality work that saves people money.”

    Over the years, Chovanec has seen WAP grow in a variety of ways, providing more robust, formalized education and incorporating new technologies as they emerge, like infrared imaging, which helps identify air leaks and thermal anomalies in homes. As research continues, Chovanec knows that there will always be something new to improve homes and lives, and he is excited that NREL can play a key part in those discoveries and enhancements.

    When reflecting on his career journey—from his first WAP agency to NREL—Chovanec said it is important to reach out and take hold of opportunities as they come.

    “The stepping stones are there, you just have to follow the path: volunteer for those committees, go to extra trainings, try to make the most of it,” Chovanec said. “No matter what my role was, I just felt really fortunate to work in WAP and have been mentored by so many incredible and brilliant people, some of whom were around when the program first began in 1976. It is a privilege to continue to support this program.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Career Built on Helping Others: Cory Chovanec’s Journey in Weatherization

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL Researcher Uses His Field Experience To Help Increase Energy Affordability for Americans Through the Weatherization Assistance Program

    Cory Chovanec leans on a ladder outside a house he is weatherizing. This photo was taken early in Chovanec’s career, between 1998 and 2008. Photo from Cory Chovanec, NREL

    At 17 years old, NREL researcher Cory Chovanec was traveling door to door in his hometown of Berlin, Wisconsin. His mission: to sell enough vacuum cleaners to qualify for an all-expenses-paid trip to Lake Tahoe. At around $1,000 dollars a pop and in a town of just over 5,000 people, it was no easy feat.

    Yet he managed to sell them all—sending both him and his sister on a free vacation.

    “I think if you can sell Kirby vacuums at that price in the ’90s, you can do just about anything,” Chovanec said.

    After following a career path in the weatherization and home performance industry from entry level to a position at a national laboratory, Chovanec found that he really could do just about anything—from crawling through cold, uninsulated subspaces and hot attics to inspecting hundreds of homes with advanced diagnostic equipment.

    Now serving as weatherization team lead at NREL, Chovanec has worked in many different roles supporting the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). The program aims to reduce energy costs for low-income households by increasing home energy efficiency. Weatherization saves money for families and enhances health, home comfort, and safety.

    In his nearly four years at NREL, Chovanec has contributed to and led technical assistance, research, and resource development to support WAP, leveraging his extensive experience to ensure these activities benefit field staff and aid in their work improving energy affordability across the country.

    Bit by the Weatherization Bug

    Chovanec did not even know what weatherization was until after high school, when he started working for a local temporary employment agency. One day, they placed him at a community action agency, where he filled in as a weatherization technician.

    Cory Chovanec holds up the damaged door of a manufactured home and the new one he replaced it with. This photo was taken early in Chovanec’s career, between 1998 and 2008. Photo from Cory Chovanec, NREL

    “I didn’t see this as a career. I thought these people were crazy, crawling around attics and everything,” Chovanec said.

    Chovanec was in a Wisconsin farmhouse in the middle of winter when he began to feel the impact of the work “click” for him. It was his first time insulating an attic on his own, and the space was almost unbearably hot because of the lack of insulation. This meant that a large amount of heat was escaping out from the living space, ultimately costing the kind, elderly owners more money to warm their home. As he carried out his work, blowing 13 to 14 inches of insulation over the attic floor, he noticed the attic change from hot to cold. With less heat escaping into the attic, the owners would need less energy to warm their home—greatly reducing their energy bills. 

    Chovanec was hooked. “It was then I could actually feel that this work really does make a difference,” he said.

    Workers in the industry describe this feeling as “getting bit by the weatherization bug.” The work is physically taxing, but Chovanec feels the reward goes far beyond a paycheck. Weatherization technicians and energy auditors are regularly exposed to the extreme heat and cold, exploring all the unseen and potentially hazardous places in a home. Yet Chovanec believed strongly in the WAP mission, saving money on energy bills, and helping people be comfortable and safe in their homes.

    Without prior knowledge of building science or weatherization work, Chovanec learned on the job. Absorbing skills and knowledge through every task and mentorship experience, he accepted a full-time role and climbed the career ladder at the community action agency, eventually accepting a position at a weatherization training center.

    Weatherization training centers provide structured hands-on training opportunities to workers in the weatherization and home performance industry. Chovanec’s main roles at the center were to provide building science training and perform quality control inspections for the state. These inspections help ensure the appropriateness and quality of the work completed on the home by installers and technicians. Chovanec estimates he visited all 72 counties of Wisconsin at least once to perform inspections during his 10-plus years at the center.

    “One of the best things was going back to do a post-weatherization inspection and hearing nothing but good things,” Chovanec said. “Their bills are going down, their house is more comfortable, they physically feel better—it’s just a dose of good news.”

    For Chovanec, home energy auditing is a passion, not just a job. An energy audit consists of a thorough examination to identify potential comfort or safety problems and energy-saving opportunities. He works on his field skills in his free time, taking the four-hour energy auditor recertification field exam every three years. He has now passed the exam five times and enjoys providing home assessments for his friends and family.

    While an energy audit might provide homeowners with the most comprehensive look at ways to cut energy costs in their home, Chovanec emphasized that there are simple steps people can take to minimize energy use and lower bills. Even just ensuring that lights are off in empty rooms and the thermostat is adjusted when you are out of the house can make a difference.

    “When you were a kid and your parents told you to turn the light off when you’re not in the room: That is real, and it helps,” Chovanec said. “We all have control over small things like that, and if we want to save some money on a utility bill, we can achieve that without extensive training.”

    Translating Field Experience Into Valuable Workforce Resources

    In keeping with his unique ability to simplify complex concepts, Chovanec’s favorite projects examine the most technical aspects of weatherization work to streamline them or make them easier to understand.

    One of these projects includes the development of two interactive 3D houses, providing virtual examples of a single-family and manufactured home. These learning tools allow users to explore relevant retrofit strategies and common weatherization measures for different areas of the home, all with a few clicks of their mouse. Chovanec used his field experience to accurately represent the spaces.

    “When thinking about developing resources for the weatherization network, you have to think about how it will look in the hands of the people actually doing the work,” Chovanec said.

    Cory Chovanec explains how to inspect a crawlspace to fellow NREL employees Juliana Williams and Alexa Carrera. Photo by Janna Babad, NREL

    Chovanec also assists volunteer expert committees with updating job task analyses for energy auditor and quality control inspector certification schemes, the role that introduced him to NREL when he volunteered to serve on the update committee as a subject matter expert. These resources are updated roughly every five years with weatherization industry feedback.

    “We are really working to improve the foundational components of credentials through each update cycle, and this is clear with each iteration,” Chovanec said. “The program is always evolving in a way that puts an emphasis on high-quality work that saves people money.”

    Over the years, Chovanec has seen WAP grow in a variety of ways, providing more robust, formalized education and incorporating new technologies as they emerge, like infrared imaging, which helps identify air leaks and thermal anomalies in homes. As research continues, Chovanec knows that there will always be something new to improve homes and lives, and he is excited that NREL can play a key part in those discoveries and enhancements.

    When reflecting on his career journey—from his first WAP agency to NREL—Chovanec said it is important to reach out and take hold of opportunities as they come.

    “The stepping stones are there, you just have to follow the path: volunteer for those committees, go to extra trainings, try to make the most of it,” Chovanec said. “No matter what my role was, I just felt really fortunate to work in WAP and have been mentored by so many incredible and brilliant people, some of whom were around when the program first began in 1976. It is a privilege to continue to support this program.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH Recommends Reopening the Swimming Area at George Washington Campground

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends reopening the swimming area at the George Washington Campground in Chepachet for swimming because bacteria counts have returned to safe levels.

    RIDOH will continue to monitor and review beach water quality through Labor Day. The status of a beach may change as new data become available. The most up-to-date beach information is available through a recorded message on RIDOH’s beaches telephone line (401-222-2751).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks at the 2025 United Nations Population Award Ceremony

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    I am pleased to represent the Secretary-General at this important celebration. I will now read his remarks.

    Excellencies, Distinguished guests, Friends,

    I am honoured to share a message of profound respect and heartfelt congratulations to this year’s laureates of the United Nations Population Award.

    The work we celebrate today – from advancing population science to protecting reproductive rights – is central to sustainable development.

    Because when every person can make informed decisions about their body and their future, we unlock opportunities, strengthen communities, and accelerate progress for all.

    I thank Dr. Natalia Kanem for her dedication and leadership, as Secretary of the United Nations Population Award Committee and Executive Director of UNFPA.

    I also salute the Chair, Ambassador Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, along with the committee members, for selecting this year’s honourees.

    In the individual category, we celebrate Ms. Varsha Deshpande of India.

    In a village in Maharashtra, young girls once faced futures decided for them.

    Child marriage.

    No education.

    No choice.

    But Varsha Deshpande stood up and said no.

    For over 30 years, she has been a force for change. 

    Preventing hundreds of child marriages.

    Providing legal aid to over 10,000 women.

    And transforming the simple phrase “Lek Ladki Abhiyan”, “the cherished girl child”, into a movement of hope.

    Halfway around the world in France, the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population, has spent nearly a century bridging the gap between data and dignity.

    Every four years, they gather global experts to take a deep look at some of our most pressing population challenges, including migration, aging societies, and climate displacement.

    The IUSSP ensures lives are not only counted – but understood and supported.

    On behalf of the Secretary-General and the United Nations, congratulations. 

    We are all inspired by the work of today’s honourees and the future they help to shape.

    A future of dignity, equality, and opportunity, for every woman, every child, and every person, everywhere.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: ICC ICC Moot Court Competition 2025 – Chinese version winners announcement ENG

    Source: International Criminal Court (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QsLagbfyE0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Putting the X-59 to the Test

    Source: NASA

    Researchers from NASA and the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) recently tested a scale model of the X-59 experimental aircraft in a supersonic wind tunnel located in Chofu, Japan, to assess the noise audible underneath the aircraft. The model can be seen in the wind tunnel in this image released on July 11, 2025.
    The test was an important milestone for NASA’s one-of-a-kind X-59, which is designed to fly faster than the speed of sound without causing a loud sonic boom. When the X-59 flies, sound underneath it – a result of its pressure signature – will be a critical factor for what people hear on the ground. 
    This marked the third round of wind tunnel tests for the X-59 model, following a previous test at JAXA and at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. The data will help researchers understand the noise level that will be created by the shock waves the X-59 produces at supersonic speeds.
    Image credit: JAXA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA to Provide Coverage of Axiom Mission 4 Departure from Station

    Source: NASA

    NASA will provide live coverage of the undocking and departure of the Axiom Mission 4 private astronaut mission from the International Space Station.
    The four-member astronaut crew is scheduled to undock from the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft at approximately 7:05 a.m. EDT Monday, July 14, pending weather, to begin their return to Earth and splashdown off the coast of California.
    Coverage of departure operations will begin with hatch closing at 4:30 a.m. on NASA+. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media.
    Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and HUNOR (Hungarian to Orbit) astronaut Tibor Kapu of Hungary, will have spent about two weeks in space at the conclusion of their mission.
    The Dragon spacecraft will return with more than 580 pounds of cargo, including NASA hardware and data from over 60 experiments conducted throughout the mission.
    NASA’s coverage is as follows (all times Eastern and subject to change based on real-time operations):
    Monday, July 14
    4:30 a.m. – Hatch closing coverage begins on NASA+.
    4:55 a.m. – Crew enters spacecraft followed by hatch closing.
    6:45 a.m. – Undocking coverage begins on NASA+, Axiom Space, and SpaceX channels.
    7:05 a.m. – Undocking
    NASA’s coverage ends approximately 30 minutes after undocking when space station joint operations with Axiom Space and SpaceX conclude. Axiom Space will resume coverage of Dragon’s re-entry and splashdown on the company’s website.
    A collaboration between NASA and ISRO allowed Axiom Mission 4 to deliver on a commitment highlighted by President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to send the first ISRO astronaut to the station. The space agencies participated in five joint science investigations and two in-orbit science, technology, engineering, and mathematics demonstrations. NASA and ISRO have a long-standing relationship built on a shared vision to advance scientific knowledge and expand space collaboration.
    The private mission also carried the first astronauts from Poland and Hungary to stay aboard the space station.
    The International Space Station is a springboard for developing a low Earth orbit economy. NASA’s goal is to achieve a strong economy off the Earth where the agency can purchase services as one of many customers to meet its science and research objectives in microgravity. NASA’s commercial strategy for low Earth orbit provides the government with reliable and safe services at a lower cost, enabling the agency to focus on Artemis missions to the Moon in preparation for Mars while also continuing to use low Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for those deep space missions.
    Learn more about NASA’s commercial space strategy at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/commercial-space
    -end-
    Claire O’SheaHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
    Anna SchneiderJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111anna.c.schneider@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 to Support Health Studies for Deep Space Travel

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission is set to launch a four-person crew to the International Space Station later this summer. Some of the crew have volunteered to participate in a series of experiments to address health challenges astronauts may face on deep space missions during NASA’s Artemis campaign and future human expeditions to Mars.
    The research during Crew-11 includes simulated lunar landings, tactics to safeguard vision, and other human physiology studies led by NASA’s Human Research Program.
    Select crew members will participate in a series of simulated Moon landings, before, during, and after their flight. Using a handheld controller and multiple screens, the astronauts will fly through simulated scenarios created to resemble the lunar South Pole region that Artemis crews plan to visit. This experiment allows researchers to evaluate how different gravitational forces may disorient astronauts and affect their ability to pilot a spacecraft, like a lunar lander.
    “Even though many landing tasks are automated, astronauts must still know how to monitor the controls and know when to take over to ensure a safe landing,” said Scott Wood, a neuroscientist at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston coordinating the scientific investigation. “Our study assesses exactly how changes in gravity affect spatial awareness and piloting skills that are important for navigating these scenarios.”
    A ground control group completing the same tasks over a similar timeframe will help scientists better understand gravitational effects on human performance. The experiment’s results could inform the pilot training needed for future Artemis crews.
    “Experiencing weightlessness for months and then feeling greater levels of gravity on a planet like Mars, for example, may increase the risk of disorientation,” said Wood. “Our goal is to help astronauts adapt to any gravitational change, whether it’s to the Moon, a new planet, or landing back on Earth.”
    Other studies during the mission will explore possible ways to treat or prevent a group of eye and brain changes that can occur during long-duration space travel, called spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS).  
    Some researchers suspect the redistribution of bodily fluids in constant weightlessness may increase pressure in the head and contribute to SANS. One study will investigate fluid pressure on the brain while another will examine how the body processes B vitamins and whether supplements can affect how astronauts respond to bodily fluid shifts. Participating crew members will test whether a daily B vitamin supplement can eliminate or ease symptoms of SANS. Specific crew members also will wear thigh cuffs to keep bodily fluids from traveling headward.
    Crew members also will complete another set of experiments, called CIPHER (Complement of Integrated Protocols for Human Exploration Research), which measures how multiple systems within the human body change in space. The study includes vision assessments, MRI scans, and other medical exams to provide a complete overview of the whole body’s response to long-duration spaceflight.
    Several other studies involving human health and performance are also a part of Crew-11’s science portfolio. Crew members will contribute to a core set of measurements called Spaceflight Standard Measures, which collects physical data and biological samples from astronauts and stores them for other comparative studies. Participants will supply biological samples, such as blood and urine, for a study characterizing how spaceflight alters astronauts’ genetic makeup. In addition, volunteers will test different exercise regimens to help scientists explore what activities remain essential for long-duration journeys.
    After landing, participating crew members will complete surveys to track any discomfort, such as scrapes or bruises, acquired from re-entry. The data will help clarify whether mission length increases injury risks and could help NASA design landing systems on future spacecraft as NASA prepares to travel to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
    NASA’s Human Research Program pursues methods and technologies to support safe, productive human space travel. Through science conducted in laboratories, ground-based analogs, and aboard the International Space Station, the program investigates how spaceflight affects human bodies and behaviors. Such research drives NASA’s quest to innovate ways that keep astronauts healthy and mission-ready.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: X-59 Model Tested in Japanese Supersonic Wind Tunnel

    Source: NASA

    Researchers from NASA and the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) recently tested a scale model of the X-59 experimental aircraft in a supersonic wind tunnel located in Chofu, Japan, to assess the noise audible underneath the aircraft. 
    The test was an important milestone for NASA’s one-of-a-kind X-59, which is designed to fly faster than the speed of sound without causing a loud sonic boom.  
    When the X-59 flies, sound underneath it – a result of its pressure signature – will be a critical factor for what people hear on the ground. 
    The X-59 is 99.7 feet long, with a wingspan of 29.7 feet. The JAXA wind tunnel, on the other hand, is just over 3 feet long by 3 feet wide.  
    So, researchers used a model scaled to just 1.62% of the actual aircraft – about 19 inches nose-to-tail. They exposed it to conditions mimicking the X-plane’s planned supersonic cruising speed of Mach 1.4, or approximately 925 miles per hour. 
    The series of tests performed at JAXA allowed NASA researchers to gather critical experimental data to compare to their predictions derived through Computational Fluid Dynamics modeling, which include how air will flow around the aircraft.  
    This marked the third round of wind tunnel tests for the X-59 model, following a previous test at JAXA and at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Ohio. 
    The data will help researchers understand the noise level that will be created by the shock waves the X-59 produces at supersonic speeds.  
    The shock waves from traditional supersonic aircraft typically merge together, producing a loud sonic boom. The X-59’s unique design works to keep shock waves from merging, will result in a quieter sonic thump. 
    The X-59 was built in Palmdale, California at contractor Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and is undergoing final ground tests en route to its historic first flight this year.   
    NASA’s Quesst mission aims to help change the future of quiet supersonic travel using the X-59. The experimental aircraft allow the Quesst team to gather public feedback on acceptable sound levels for quiet supersonic flight.  
    Through Quesst’s development of the X-59, NASA will deliver design tools and technology for quiet supersonic airliners that will achieve the high speeds desired by commercial operators without creating disturbance to people on the ground. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 1582, GENIUS Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Legislation Summary

    S. 1582 would define payment stablecoin to mean a digital asset issued for a payment or settlement that is pegged to a reference asset, such as the U.S. dollar, and redeemable at a fixed amount. The act also would establish a regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers. Nonbank entities or subsidiaries of insured depository institutions could apply to become issuers; within three years of enactment only those approved issuers would be authorized to offer stablecoin. Once approved, an issuer would be subject to supervision by appropriate federal or state regulators and would be required to hold at least one dollar of permitted reserves for every dollar issued in stablecoin.

    Under S. 1582, the responsible federal financial regulators would be the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Federal Reserve.

    S. 1582 would permit nonbank entities with less than $10 billion in issuance to opt in to a state regulatory system, provided that the state’s system is substantially similar to its federal counterpart; state regulators could choose to cede their authority to the Federal Reserve. The act would require federal and state regulators to issue specific capital, liquidity, and risk management rules for federal and state stablecoin issuers and to report on stablecoins. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) would be required to issue anti-money-laundering rules for stablecoin issuers.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effect of S. 1582 is shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 370 (commerce and housing credit) and 750 (administration of justice).

    Basis of Estimate

    Enacting S. 1582 would impose additional administrative costs on the federal financial regulators, CBO estimates. We expect that during the two years after enactment, the regulatory agencies would conduct rulemaking, develop industry and examiner guidance, train examiners, and establish processes for state and federal regulation of small issuers of stablecoins. After that, the agencies would incur additional administrative costs for examinations, risk monitoring, enforcement, and certifying state regulators. Using information from the affected agencies, CBO estimates that, on average, the annual cost in 2025 of employing a financial regulatory staff member at the FDIC, NCUA, OCC, and Federal Reserve is $270,000. Costs in later years are adjusted to account for anticipated inflation.

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of S. 1582
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Increases in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    2

    3

    5

    4

    5

    5

    5

    6

    6

    6

    19

    47

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    2

    3

    5

    4

    5

    5

    5

    6

    6

    6

    19

    47
     

    Decreases in Revenues

    		    

    Estimated Revenues

    0

    -1

    -1

    -2

    -1

    -29

    -7

    -8

    -8

    -8

    -8

    -34

    -73
     

    Net Increase in the Deficit

    From Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues

    		    

    Effect on the Deficit

    *

    3

    4

    7

    5

    34

    12

    13

    14

    14

    14

    53

    120

    Direct Spending

    The administrative costs of the FDIC, NCUA, and OCC are classified in the federal budget as direct spending. Using information from those agencies, CBO estimates that enacting the legislation would increase gross direct spending by $77 million over the 2025-2035 period. However, OCC and NCUA collect fees from financial institutions to offset their costs; those fees are treated as reductions in direct spending. Thus, CBO estimates that, on net, enacting the legislation would increase direct spending by $47 million over the same period.

    Revenues

    Costs incurred by the Federal Reserve reduce remittances to the Treasury, which are recorded in the budget as revenues. CBO estimates that enacting S. 1582 would decrease revenues by $73 million over the 2025-2035 period. Changes in costs for the Federal Reserve banks have historically resulted in changes to remittances during the same year. However, since fiscal year 2023, the central bank has recorded a deferred asset to account for accrued net losses from expenses in excess of income. As a result, remittances largely have been suspended. In CBO’s projections, remittances from the Federal Reserve will generally be suspended until 2030, and until they resume, most changes in costs incurred by the system will not be recorded as changes in remittances.

    Spending Subject to Appropriation

    S. 1582 would require FinCEN to write anti-money-laundering rules for stablecoin issuers. That agency’s administrative costs are funded through annual appropriations. CBO estimates that implementing the provision would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period; any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    Uncertainty

    Chief, Finance, Housing, and Education Cost Estimates Unit

    Joshua Shakin
    Chief, Revenue Projections Unit

    Kathleen FitzGerald 
    Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit

    H. Samuel Papenfuss 
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 306, Fire Ready Nation Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 306 would authorize the appropriation of specific amounts for each fiscal years from 2026 through 2030 for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a fire weather services program to support wildfire forecasting, responsiveness, and local collaborations.

    Under the bill, NOAA would be required to:

    • Develop modeling and data systems for fire weather predictions,
    • Maintain a public website to promote the program’s services and data,
    • Award grants to non-federal entities for program development,
    • Conduct pilot projects and research on unmanned systems for fire weather observations,
    • Establish an Incident Meteorologist Service within the National Weather Service, and
    • Report to the Congress on the program’s implementation.

    The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 300 (natural resources and environment).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation Under S. 306
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		  
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2025-2030

    Authorization

    0

    15

    20

    27

    36

    50

    148

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    4

    12

    18

    26

    35

    95

    Enacting the bill would increase direct spending by less than $500,000 over the 2025-2035 period.

    CBO assumes that the bill will be enacted in 2025 and that the authorized amounts will be provided in each year. Based on historical spending patterns, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost $95 million over the 2025-2030 period and $51 million after 2030.

    The bill also would authorize additional premium pay in calendar year 2025 for Department of Commerce employees involved in emergency wildfire suppression and whose earnings, including premium pay, exceed a specified threshold. Under current law, employees can earn premium pay only to the extent that their combined base and premium pay does not exceed the greater of the GS-15 maximum or Executive Schedule Level V salary level. Because the additional pay would apply to work already completed, that spending is treated as direct spending. Using information from the Forest Service, CBO estimates that enacting S. 306 would increase direct spending by less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Kelly Durand. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 11th, 2025 Heinrich Blasts U.S. Forest Service Chief for Trump Budget that Guts Funding for Wildfire Response and Public Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — During a U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Committee, blasted U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz for the Trump Administration’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY 26) budget request. The budget cuts funding for the Forest Service by 65% and would gut funding for critical firefighting programs, forcing cash-strapped states and local communities to fend for themselves and bear the cost of wildfires, endangering families and communities.

    VIDEO: Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) grills U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz before the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, July 10, 2025.
    On Cuts to U.S. Forest Service Programs That Keep Families Safe
    Heinrich opened his questions, “Chief, you’ve talked recently about how your budget is constrained because you need to pay out accrued vacation time for the 5,000 Forest Service employees who opted into the Deferred Resignation Program, basically 5,000 people that we’re paying not to do work in our forests. Which programs are being affected this year because of the need to pay out that leave?”
    Schultz responded, “Senator Heinrich, we’re using primarily IRA and IIJA funds to pay those out. Those are the funds that are being used for that.”
    Heinrich followed, “So it had no impact on the decision to zero out the State and Volunteer Fire Assistance Program?”
    Schultz denied, “Sir, no. Those funds were not used directly. They were not directly earmarked for SFA and VFA funding. Those were not those funds.”
    Heinrich pushed back, “You told the Senate Appropriations Committee a few weeks ago that the Forest Service would be quickly releasing the FY 25 funds for these programs for state and state and volunteer fire assistance. But now we’re hearing that states have been told to prepare to receive zero funding this year. Is that correct?”
    Schultz responded, “Sir, you’re correct in what my testimony was, and what we’re telling states right now is we don’t have an answer just yet. But we’re not telling them they’re not going to get it. We’re saying we’re still in discussion on that. So, we’re not saying they’re not going to get it, but we’re still in discussion.”
    Heinrich challenged Schultz’s claims, “Well, what I would say, is that states need that funding. That is an example of a successful partnership. If we don’t have that funding, that’s not shared responsibility – that’s abdicating our federal responsibility. And not every state has even an agency in place to sort of replace that capacity at the state level, at a time when their budgets are also being decimated by Medicaid cuts thanks to the ‘Big Whatever Bill.’ So, I would think very seriously about our responsibility to continue to maintain positive relationships with those states and meet our federal responsibility. You have any thoughts?
    Schultz responded, “So I can tell you is your sentiments have been reflected by the State Foresters, and we’re in close communication with them, and we’re aware of their concerns, and we’re taking those into consideration as we work through this issue. Yes, sir.”
    On Forest Management and Reorganization
    Heinrich asked, “Last year, the Forest Service predicted it would accomplish about 4 million acres of hazardous fuels reduction in 2025. You’re three quarters of the way through the Fiscal Year. What’s your number right now?”
    Schultz failed to provide a number, “Sir, I don’t have that number at, with—but I’ll give it to you.”
    Heinrich responded, “I think I have the number, and you can tell me if I’m wrong. It’s about 1.7 million acres, so not even 50% of the way towards our goal, despite the fact that we’re almost through the Fiscal Year. So, I, you know, one of the things we agree on in this Committee, is we’d like to see more fuels reduction as a way to deal with our fire risk, and yet, we are abysmally behind our goals. We have 5,000 fewer people working for the Forest Service now, and there are many of us on this Committee that are worried that the current budget is a recipe for more trees burned and fewer trees cut. What would you say to my constituents who are worried that this budget blueprint is going to result in fewer hazardous fuels being treated?”
    Schultz responded, “Senator Heinrich, what I would say is that, overall, we’re still going to maintain our fuels program, as we have done. This budget, what it does, though, is it transfers fuels program to Department of Interior. So that work would be done in the future by Department of Interior. That’s part of what happens in this budget. That fuels program goes there. So, we would be working with Department of Interior to accomplish those objectives on Forest Service grounds. So, the intent is we still have the same amount of funding. The funding doesn’t shift for fuels, it just shifts from Forest Service to Department of Interior. So the intent would still be to accomplish those goals.”
    Heinrich replied, “So as the firefighting efforts are shifted to Interior, would the hazardous fuels treatments go with them?”
    Schultz stated, “Senator Heinrich, yes, sir. So, the funding for that program, the 170 million does transfer Interior so the large bulk of that would transfer with that program, yes, sir.”
    On the Administration’s New Firefighting Approach:
    Heinrich asked for details, “When are we going to get a detailed blueprint of what this new firefighting approach is going to look like?”
    Schultz answered, “Senator, we have been requested through the Executive Order within the next 90 days to develop a plan that would identify the structure of this. So, that’s something that we’ve just started discussions internally and with Department of Interior. So, we will meet the timelines that are established in the Executive Order. So, as you work through that, in 90 days, we’ll have a plan of what this would look like.”
    Heinrich concluded, “Irrespective of how long it takes to put that plan together, I think there are many of us who are more concerned about the adequacy of that plan and would like to see that plan before we start making budgetary decisions about whether it’s a good idea or not. I am very open to different ways of organizing how we fight fires on our national forests and our public lands, but I want to see the plan because peoples’ lives and livelihoods are at stake. We have to get that right. And irrespective of whether the White House wants it in two weeks or 90 days, I know that members of this Committee are going to want to see the details, and know that this has actually been thought through, unlike some of the you know, early decisions about letting people go who are critical to the management of our public lands.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Schatz and Shaheen Introduce Legislation to Prevent Lifesaving U.S. Aid from Going to Waste

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Foreign Operation Appropriations, introduced the “Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act,” legislation to prevent the unnecessary destruction and waste of foreign assistance commodities—including food, medicine and medical devices—by ensuring that they are delivered to intended recipients before they spoil or expire. The bill would prohibit the destruction of any such commodities unless all efforts to sell or donate them have been exhausted and requires reporting to Congress on any destroyed goods. 
    Specifically, the “Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act” seeks to prevent the State Department’s planned destruction of $9.7 million in family planning commodities instead of donating them to intended beneficiaries. It would also impose requirements to prevent the imminent spoilage of emergency food commodities in warehouses, including a USAID warehouse in Houston, Texas. 
    “This bill will save lives and prevent the wasting of taxpayer dollars by ensuring that already paid-for life-saving commodities, like food and medicine, are delivered to people in need instead of being pointlessly trashed,” said Ranking Member Shaheen. “At a moment when the Trump Administration has made devastating cuts to foreign assistance it is disappointing that the State Department would sign off on spending money to actually destroy paid-for commodities that would save lives and are waiting to be deployed. Food and family planning commodities are desperately needed in conflict affected countries, like Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo where famine is taking hold. Women are at high risk for sexual violence in conflict settings. This is sadly yet another example of how Elon Musk and the DOGE boys have simultaneously managed to cost lives and undercut America’s influence abroad without saving the taxpayer a single cent.” 
    “Intentionally destroying health care products or letting food and medication that the United States government has already paid for as part of our foreign assistance efforts rot and expire in warehouses is absurd. It’s a total waste of taxpayer dollars and is needlessly costing lives around the world,” said Ranking Member Schatz. “Our bill requires the administration to follow common-sense and distribute foreign assistance commodities before they expire.” 
    Last week, Ranking Member Shaheen sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging him to reverse the State Department’s decision to destroy more than $9 million dollars in family planning commodities intended to support women in crisis settings globally. U.S. family planning assistance reaches 47.6 million women and couples every year, preventing 8.1 million unintended pregnancies, 5.2 million unsafe abortions and 34,000 maternal deaths. 
    Full text of the bill can be found HERE. 
    The “Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act” would:  
    Require that foreign assistance commodities, including food, medicine, and medical devices be made available to intended beneficiaries before the commodities spoil or expire.   
    Prevent the destruction of any commodity procured or held by the United States unless every effort has been made to sell or donate the commodity before the applicable spoilage or expiration date.   
    Require reporting to Congress on any destroyed commodities, including the market value of any product or commodity destroyed; and the cost incurred to destroy the commodity. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Hungary and the Commission – E-001468/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is committed to protect the financial interests of the EU and to ensure the correct application of EU law and implementation of the EU budget. Commitments and payments to Hungary, as for any Member State, follow the relevant rules.

    As regards discrimination in taxation, since 3 October 2024, an infringement procedure against Hungary is ongoing for non-compliance of its retail tax regime with the freedom of establishment[1].

    The Commission also closely monitors the use of authorisation procedures and the enforcement of restrictive measures, particularly in the construction, mining and retail sectors.

    Under the European Semester, the Commission follows related developments, notably on disproportionate burdens through sector-specific taxes and complaints of foreign firms about unequal and arbitrary treatment, and reports on them[2].

    The concentration of awards was taken into consideration when adopting measures under the general regime of conditionality, which led to a suspension of 55% of three Cohesion Policy programmes in Hungary[3].

    Within that procedure, Hungary committed to implement remedial measures to reduce the share of public procurements with single bids, monitor concentration and increase transparency of the public procurement market.

    Moreover, Hungary’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) includes the same commitments as milestones and targets[4]. The Commission monitors the correct implementation of remedial measures and will — once Hungary submits a payment request under its RRP — assess the fulfilment of the related milestones and targets.

    Until then, all RRP funds are suspended. EU funding to Hungary is also blocked under the horizontal enabling condition regarding the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights[5] related to the programmes under the Common Provisions Regulation[6].

    The Commission follows closely the developments in Hungary via its annual Rule of Law Report[7], and will not hesitate to make use of the available tools to protect the financial interests of the EU and enforce EU law.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT.
    • [2] https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/2024-european-semester-country-reports_en.
    • [3]  https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOL_2022_325_R_TOC, OJ L 325, 20.12.2022, p. 94-109.
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/hungarys-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en#documents .
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012P/TXT.
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32021R1060.
    • [7] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/2024-rule-law-report-communication-and-country-chapters_en.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Hungary and the Commission – E-001468/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is committed to protect the financial interests of the EU and to ensure the correct application of EU law and implementation of the EU budget. Commitments and payments to Hungary, as for any Member State, follow the relevant rules.

    As regards discrimination in taxation, since 3 October 2024, an infringement procedure against Hungary is ongoing for non-compliance of its retail tax regime with the freedom of establishment[1].

    The Commission also closely monitors the use of authorisation procedures and the enforcement of restrictive measures, particularly in the construction, mining and retail sectors.

    Under the European Semester, the Commission follows related developments, notably on disproportionate burdens through sector-specific taxes and complaints of foreign firms about unequal and arbitrary treatment, and reports on them[2].

    The concentration of awards was taken into consideration when adopting measures under the general regime of conditionality, which led to a suspension of 55% of three Cohesion Policy programmes in Hungary[3].

    Within that procedure, Hungary committed to implement remedial measures to reduce the share of public procurements with single bids, monitor concentration and increase transparency of the public procurement market.

    Moreover, Hungary’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) includes the same commitments as milestones and targets[4]. The Commission monitors the correct implementation of remedial measures and will — once Hungary submits a payment request under its RRP — assess the fulfilment of the related milestones and targets.

    Until then, all RRP funds are suspended. EU funding to Hungary is also blocked under the horizontal enabling condition regarding the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights[5] related to the programmes under the Common Provisions Regulation[6].

    The Commission follows closely the developments in Hungary via its annual Rule of Law Report[7], and will not hesitate to make use of the available tools to protect the financial interests of the EU and enforce EU law.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT.
    • [2] https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/2024-european-semester-country-reports_en.
    • [3]  https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOL_2022_325_R_TOC, OJ L 325, 20.12.2022, p. 94-109.
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/hungarys-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en#documents .
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012P/TXT.
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32021R1060.
    • [7] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/2024-rule-law-report-communication-and-country-chapters_en.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Cronyism at EU Agency for Asylum – E-001964/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The management board of the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), of which the Commission is a member, addressed the matter referred to by the Honourable Members, and thoroughly discussed and examined all findings and recommendations made by the European Anti-Fraud Office as a result of its investigation.

    The management board has addressed a warning to the Executive Director of the EUAA, together with a formal request for concrete proposals of corrective actions to ensure more efficient and transparent procedures and to strengthen the overall human resources management in the Agency.

    The Commission will follow closely the implementation of the corrective actions by the Executive Director.

    Last updated: 11 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Cronyism at EU Agency for Asylum – E-001964/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The management board of the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), of which the Commission is a member, addressed the matter referred to by the Honourable Members, and thoroughly discussed and examined all findings and recommendations made by the European Anti-Fraud Office as a result of its investigation.

    The management board has addressed a warning to the Executive Director of the EUAA, together with a formal request for concrete proposals of corrective actions to ensure more efficient and transparent procedures and to strengthen the overall human resources management in the Agency.

    The Commission will follow closely the implementation of the corrective actions by the Executive Director.

    Last updated: 11 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Exempting Poland from the migrant relocation mechanism – E-001204/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Asylum and Migration Management Regulation[1] (AMMR) foresees a mandatory but flexible solidarity mechanism, whereby each Member State has full discretion to choose between the available forms of solidarity, namely relocation, financial contributions and alternative measures (in-kind support).

    The AMMR also foresees possible deduction of solidarity contributions in cases of migratory pressure or significant migratory situations.

    As Guardian of the Treaties, the Commission monitors the correct application, implementation and enforcement of EU law and may take appropriate legal action in line with the treaties to ensure compliance.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1351/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 11 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group moves forward to strengthen transparency, accountability and workplace well-being

    Source: European Investment Bank

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group has been taking decisive steps to strengthen transparency, accountability, and workplace well-being. These include a 14-point Action Plan, launched in July 2024, developed with staff representatives to address priority areas identified through staff surveys.

    To date, the Group has delivered several concrete measures as part of this change:

    • Appointment of an independent Ombudsperson that will join the EIB Group on 1 October to serve as a neutral resource and support confidential conflict resolution.
    • Completion of a 360° feedback exercise for senior and middle managers, with the participation of over 3 000 staff members to improve the working atmosphere and foster leadership excellence.
    • Performance objectives for managers have incorporated the need to ensure a safe working environment, promote a speak-up culture, and support the development, performance and well-being of staff.
    • Compulsory trainings have been rolled out covering the EIB Group Code of Conduct, Whistleblowing Policy and the prevention and detection of workplace harassment for all staff and management.
    • Concrete measures are being taken to promote horizontal mobility and inclusion throughout the Group.
    • Procedures are being streamlined and processes digitalised to reduce red tape, increase efficiency and improve the working experience. The time to market (from first contact to signature of a deal) has been reduced by 20% and reporting by more than 30%, with a further material reduction expected in 2025.
    • A working group, which includes staff representatives, has been established to enhance career development opportunities for support staff. Also, engagement sessions and a survey have been launched to modernise the non-salary welfare benefits system, in view of making it more flexible and fairer to respond to individual needs and situations. The findings from these initiatives will inform the working group’s discussions in autumn.
    • Recruitment processes have become more efficient and management appointments are communicated in a more transparent manner. Feedback is given to non-successful candidates with a view to improving opportunities for career development within an efficient organization with a modern governance structure.
    • A talent review is ongoing to modernise Human Resources policies and accompany all staff in their career development.
    • A revision of the Dignity at Work Policy is ongoing to increase efficiency and speed of decision-making and action.
    • Mediation is promoted as a constructive approach to resolving workplace conflicts and issues.
    • A “Work Well Together Week” has been organised in September 2024, along with an interinstitutional Ethics Day October 2024 to reinforce shared values and a senior management away day.

    In May and June 2025, a new staff survey has been carried out. Designed and run by an external independent firm and following consultation with all relevant stakeholders, the survey achieved a record 78% participation rate with responses from over 3 900 colleagues.

    The survey identifies strengths and improvements in key areas, as well as opportunities for improvement in areas where action is already taken to strengthen the work culture and atmosphere at the EIB group. The staff survey provides valuable insights to steer next steps.

    Survey results show strong alignment with the Group’s mission and values, high appreciation for managers, and a supportive working atmosphere among colleagues. Staff also reported a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work and outcomes and demonstrated good knowledge of the EIB Group Staff Code of Conduct.

    Compared to the 2022 survey, there is considerable improvement in perceptions of leadership setting an ethical example, as well as significant improvement in views of the Group’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and recognising support from other teams.

    Areas identified for further improvement include decision-making speed, removing barriers to more efficient working, and improving mobility and promotion processes.

    These areas had already been identified as priorities, and the EIB Group is stepping up action to improve the working experience for everyone. Feedback from the survey will be discussed with staff representatives to follow up on the findings and continue strengthening the work environment for all EIB Group employees.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group moves forward to strengthen transparency, accountability and workplace well-being

    Source: European Investment Bank

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group has been taking decisive steps to strengthen transparency, accountability, and workplace well-being. These include a 14-point Action Plan, launched in July 2024, developed with staff representatives to address priority areas identified through staff surveys.

    To date, the Group has delivered several concrete measures as part of this change:

    • Appointment of an independent Ombudsperson that will join the EIB Group on 1 October to serve as a neutral resource and support confidential conflict resolution.
    • Completion of a 360° feedback exercise for senior and middle managers, with the participation of over 3 000 staff members to improve the working atmosphere and foster leadership excellence.
    • Performance objectives for managers have incorporated the need to ensure a safe working environment, promote a speak-up culture, and support the development, performance and well-being of staff.
    • Compulsory trainings have been rolled out covering the EIB Group Code of Conduct, Whistleblowing Policy and the prevention and detection of workplace harassment for all staff and management.
    • Concrete measures are being taken to promote horizontal mobility and inclusion throughout the Group.
    • Procedures are being streamlined and processes digitalised to reduce red tape, increase efficiency and improve the working experience. The time to market (from first contact to signature of a deal) has been reduced by 20% and reporting by more than 30%, with a further material reduction expected in 2025.
    • A working group, which includes staff representatives, has been established to enhance career development opportunities for support staff. Also, engagement sessions and a survey have been launched to modernise the non-salary welfare benefits system, in view of making it more flexible and fairer to respond to individual needs and situations. The findings from these initiatives will inform the working group’s discussions in autumn.
    • Recruitment processes have become more efficient and management appointments are communicated in a more transparent manner. Feedback is given to non-successful candidates with a view to improving opportunities for career development within an efficient organization with a modern governance structure.
    • A talent review is ongoing to modernise Human Resources policies and accompany all staff in their career development.
    • A revision of the Dignity at Work Policy is ongoing to increase efficiency and speed of decision-making and action.
    • Mediation is promoted as a constructive approach to resolving workplace conflicts and issues.
    • A “Work Well Together Week” has been organised in September 2024, along with an interinstitutional Ethics Day October 2024 to reinforce shared values and a senior management away day.

    In May and June 2025, a new staff survey has been carried out. Designed and run by an external independent firm and following consultation with all relevant stakeholders, the survey achieved a record 78% participation rate with responses from over 3 900 colleagues.

    The survey identifies strengths and improvements in key areas, as well as opportunities for improvement in areas where action is already taken to strengthen the work culture and atmosphere at the EIB group. The staff survey provides valuable insights to steer next steps.

    Survey results show strong alignment with the Group’s mission and values, high appreciation for managers, and a supportive working atmosphere among colleagues. Staff also reported a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work and outcomes and demonstrated good knowledge of the EIB Group Staff Code of Conduct.

    Compared to the 2022 survey, there is considerable improvement in perceptions of leadership setting an ethical example, as well as significant improvement in views of the Group’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and recognising support from other teams.

    Areas identified for further improvement include decision-making speed, removing barriers to more efficient working, and improving mobility and promotion processes.

    These areas had already been identified as priorities, and the EIB Group is stepping up action to improve the working experience for everyone. Feedback from the survey will be discussed with staff representatives to follow up on the findings and continue strengthening the work environment for all EIB Group employees.

    MIL OSI Europe News –