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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Global: Kamala Harris has spoken of her racial backgrounds − but a shared identity isn’t enough to attract supporters

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Pawan Dhingra, Associate Provost and Professor of American Studies, Amherst College

    Vice President Kamala Harris greets guests during a reception for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the White House in May 2022. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    In one of the most memorable moments of the current presidential campaign, Donald Trump in July 2024 contended that Democratic nominee Kamala Harris recently stopped identifying as Indian and “happened to turn Black.”

    With these false remarks, Trump implied that Harris emphasized one part of her background to appeal to voters and then changed that to appeal to a different group of voters.

    Lost within this controversy has been the underlying assumption in Trump’s comments, that people tend to vote for someone with a shared identity. But is that true? Are Asian Americans, for example, especially likely to vote for Harris because of their shared identity?

    Asian Americans are a quickly growing political constituency that made a difference in 2020 in swing states such as Georgia, Nevada and Arizona, helping elect President Joe Biden. They are positioned to be influential again this November.

    Taken as a whole, Asian Americans lean Democratic in 2024, with 62% favoring Harris, compared with 38% who support Trump. But for Harris, Asian Americans are not as strong a voting bloc as Black Americans, who poll at 77% supporting Harris, according to the Pew Research Center. Harris cannot take Asian Americans’ votes for granted.

    Kamala Harris takes a photo with guests during a White House reception in May 2022 celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
    Associated Press

    What guides identity politics and voting

    Despite the assumption in Trump’s comments that voters gravitate toward a political candidate who shares parts of their identity, such as race or gender, that is not always the case.

    Voters are more likely to vote for someone with a shared identity when they see a “linked fate.” with the candidate. So, people who have the same ethnicity or race may vote in a similar fashion because they expect to experience the effects of policy changes in the same way. Latinos could be more likely to vote for a Latino candidate because the candidate would prioritize issues that matter to them, such as immigration reform.

    Politicians, for their part, can try to encourage people with whom they share an identity to believe in a linked fate to win their vote. In order to do this, candidates can play up issues that affect their identity group and then make the case that they are best equipped and more motivated to address those problems.

    For instance, women rank abortion rights as a key issue and trust Harris to understand it.

    In order to earn voters’ support, candidates must also come across as likely to act in their supporters’ shared interests. This helps explain why people who care about so-called women’s issues, such as education or health care, are more likely to vote for a Democratic woman than a Republican woman. People generally think that Democrats represent women better than Republicans do – and they would not assume that a Republican female politician would champion women’s issues just because of her gender.

    With this in mind, a candidate wanting to secure the vote of a group must first know what issues matter to them and then demonstrate that they understand the group well enough to earn their vote.

    Asian Americans, like most Americans, list the economy, inflation, health care, crime, Social Security, the price of housing and immigration as their top issues in this election.

    In order to effectively appeal to Asian American voters, Harris could demonstrate first that she identifies as Asian in order to invoke their shared identity. She could also show that she both understands the issues that Asian Americans care about and that she can be trusted to act in ways they favor on those issues.

    To an extent, Harris has already worked to publicly identify with her South Asian heritage. She has referred to her mother’s immigrant background and has talked about her grandfather who lived in Chennai, in southern India. She has made references to her ethnic culture, such as when she mentioned coconut trees and cooked the traditional South Indian dish dosa in a video with fellow Indian American Mindy Kaling.

    New Hampshire delegate Sumathi Madhure attends the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 19, 2024.
    Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

    Connecting to Asian Americans

    Once solidifying that they share an identity with a group of voters, political candidates must demonstrate that they understand how the group experiences the issues that matter to them. The concerns of Asian Americans arise out of specific experiences they have – such as immigration.

    Asian Americans, for example, often complain about the long wait to sponsor family members abroad for visas to the U.S. At the same time, Asian Americans represent 15% of immigrants living in the U.S. without a visa.

    Asian Americans are also concerned about the growing government backlog of visas and smugglers whom immigrants pay to help them illegally cross the border.

    Harris often speaks about immigration and the U.S.-Mexico border, but not in personal terms – or about how this issue specifically relates to Asians.

    While all U.S. residents are affected by inflation, small-business owners, in particular, feel the pinch. They must pay higher prices for goods but have limited capital with which to do so. They also must navigate higher interest rates.

    While Asian Americans make up about 7% of the total U.S. population, they represent 10% of business owners and are the largest nonwhite group of small-business owners.

    Harris talks about the economy and inflation, as well as the need to support small-business owners, but not about how these issues specifically affect Asian Americans. Her only ad targeting Asian Americans has focused on hate crimes against them.

    And Asian Americans, like most voters, strongly support Social Security and other federal programs that aim to ensure stability for the elderly. Harris could speak of how Social Security is the sole income source for over a quarter of Asian Americans – and for a third of African Americans – compared with 18% of white Americans.

    Harris seems poised to capture the majority of the Asian American vote, which leans Democratic. But to what extent they vote for her – and with how much enthusiasm – will depend on Harris’ ability to connect with them as Asian Americans and the issues they care about.

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

    – ref. Kamala Harris has spoken of her racial backgrounds − but a shared identity isn’t enough to attract supporters – https://theconversation.com/kamala-harris-has-spoken-of-her-racial-backgrounds-but-a-shared-identity-isnt-enough-to-attract-supporters-237107

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Attorney General James Lead Coalition Suing TikTok for Exploiting Young Users, Deceiving Public

    Source: US State of California

    Platform designed to promote excessive, compulsive, and addictive use

    SAN FRANCISCO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta and New York Attorney General Letitia James today co-led a bipartisan coalition of 14 attorneys general in filing separate enforcement actions against TikTok for violations of state consumer protection laws. Filed in Santa Clara County Superior Court, Attorney General Bonta’s action alleges that TikTok exploits and harms young users and deceives the public about the social media platform’s dangers. The action seeks significant penalties, as well as injunctive and monetary relief, to address TikTok’s misconduct.

    “Our investigation has revealed that TikTok cultivates social media addiction to boost corporate profits. TikTok intentionally targets children because they know kids do not yet have the defenses or capacity to create healthy boundaries around addictive content,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “When we look at the youth mental health crisis and the revenue machine TikTok has created, fueled by the time and attention of our young people, it’s devastatingly obvious: Our children and teens never stood a chance against these social media behemoths. TikTok must be held accountable for the harms it created in taking away the time — and childhoods — of American children.” 

    “Young people are struggling with their mental health because of addictive social media platforms like TikTok,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “TikTok claims that their platform is safe for young people, but that is far from true. In New York and across the country, young people have died or gotten injured doing dangerous TikTok challenges and many more are feeling more sad, anxious, and depressed because of TikTok’s addictive features. Today, we are suing TikTok to protect young people and help combat the nationwide youth mental health crisis. Kids and families across the country are desperate for help to address this crisis, and we are doing everything in our power to protect them.”

    Use of TikTok is pervasive among young people in the United States. In 2023, 63% of all Americans aged 13 to 17 who responded to a Pew Research survey reported using TikTok, and most teenagers in the U.S. were using TikTok daily; 17% of American teens said that they were on TikTok “almost constantly.”

    In today’s lawsuit, Attorney General Bonta alleges TikTok violated California’s consumer protection statutes, the Unfair Competition Law (UCL), and the False Advertising Law (FAL).

    According to the complaint, TikTok’s misconduct arises from its underlying business model that focuses on maximizing young users’ time on the TikTok platform so as to enable the company to boost revenue from selling targeted advertising space. TikTok’s misconduct includes: 

    Deploying a content-recommendation system designed to be addictive in order to maximize the time young users spend on the platform. TikTok’s algorithmic features are designed to keep minors on the platform as long as possible and as often as possible, despite the dangers of compulsive use.

    Using manipulative features to addict young users and maximize their time on its platform. These features exploit children’s psychological vulnerabilities and are deployed to keep kids and teens on the platform for longer. 

    BEAUTY FILTERS

    Beauty filters and effects are deeply harmful to young users; they foster unrealistic beauty standards, harm self-esteem, and can induce negative body image issues and related physical and mental disorders. TikTok knows these filters and effects significantly increase platform use, particularly among young users, and retains these features despite their harms.

    AUTOPLAY

    To manipulate users into compulsively spending more time on the platform, TikTok does not allow them to disable Autoplay. TikTok uses Autoplay to continuously play new and temporary posts; this exploits young users’ novelty-seeking minds and eliminates their autonomy to choose to stop.

    ENDLESS/INFINITE SCROLL

    Endless scrolling compels young users to spend more time on the platform by making it difficult to disengage. It strips away a natural stopping point or opportunity to turn to a new activity and distorts users’ perception of time.

    TIKTOK STORIES AND TIKTOK LIVE

    Content on these features is only available temporarily — users must tune in immediately or lose the opportunity to interact. These time-sensitive features are designed to encourage young users to compulsively return to the platform by exploiting their uniquely sensitive fear of missing out. 

    PUSH NOTIFICATIONS

    Push notifications unfairly entice young users by overloading and overwhelming them to return to the platform. Some pushes are designed to keep young users from quitting the platform altogether, and others encourage young users to open the application. TikTok has even used fake notifications to manipulate users into opening its platform. 

    LIKES AND COMMENTS

    At key development states it can be overwhelmingly important for children and teens to be accepted by their peers. TikTok’s design and display of highlighting “likes” as a form of social validation has an especially powerful effect on young users and can neurologically alter teenagers’ perception of online posts, in addition to driving compulsive use.

    Engaging in a scheme that deceptively markets the platform and platform features as promoting young users’ safety and well-being. TikTok employs a coordinated array of features, tools, content moderation efforts, community guidelines, and public assurances intended to promote a public narrative that the platform is appropriate and safe for young users and that TikTok prioritizes user safety. In truth, such features and efforts do not work as advertised, the harmful effects of the platform are far greater than acknowledged, and TikTok does not prioritize safety over profit.

    Exploiting children’s data without parental notice or consent. Despite knowing certain users are under 13 years old and despite the platform being directed toward children, TikTok has collected and used personal information from children’s accounts without parental consent or notice. Doing so is both unfair and fails to satisfy TikTok’s obligations under federal law. 

    Attorneys general from the following states join Attorney General Bonta today in filing separate enforcement actions against TikTok to hold it accountable for its role in the children’s mental health crisis: New York, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oregon, South Carolina, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. As of today, 23 attorneys general have filed actions against TikTok for its conduct toward youth, including existing actions filed by the attorneys general of Utah, Nevada, Indiana, New Hampshire, Nebraska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, and Texas. 

    Attorney General Bonta is a steadfast leader in protecting children against the mental health harms of using social media. In March 2022, Attorney General Bonta announced a nationwide investigation into TikTok, and in March 2023, he filed an amicus brief demanding TikTok comply with state investigations. In October 2023, Attorney General Bonta co-led a bipartisan coalition of 33 attorneys general in filing a federal lawsuit against Meta alleging the company designed and deployed harmful features that addict children and teens to their mental and physical detriment, and in November 2023, he announced the public release of a largely unredacted copy of the federal complaint. Last month, Attorney General Bonta issued a statement after Senate Bill 976 (SB 976) was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom. SB 976 provides important new protections for young people in California by resetting the defaults on social media platforms to disfavor addictive algorithmic feeds, notifications, and other addictive design features that lead children and teens to spend hours and hours on their platforms. 

    A copy of the redacted complaint can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN speaks highly of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) at the Special Reception hosted by World Economic Forum

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn this evening attended a Special Reception hosted by Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

    Organised on the margins of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR, the reception also saw discussions with industry leaders, including with the WEF’s Champions for ASEAN’s Economic Future and Digital Economy Agreement Leadership (DEAL) communities. With support from the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, the WEF is implementing the ASEAN DEAL initiative to support the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on E-Commerce and Digital Economy.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN speaks highly of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) at the Special Reception hosted by World Economic Forum appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Harvey Milk Completes First Replenishment-at-Sea with two Japanese Training Ships

    Source: United States Navy

    NORFOLK Va., (Sept. 24, 2024) — Recently, Civil Service Mariners (CIVMARS) aboard the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet replenishment oiler USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206) completed their first replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessels.

    Apart of a six-month around the world training cruise, that began in May 2024 and included 180 newly commissioned JMSDF officers, JMSDF training vessels JS Kashima (TV-3508) and guided missile destroyer JS Shimakaze (DDG 172, TV 3521), which has now been converted into a training vessel, completed its first RAS event with USNS Harvey Milk in the Virginia Capes’ (VACAPES) operating area in the Atlantic Ocean, Sept. 24. This bilateral exercise between the United States and Japan helps to improve JMSDF’s tactical capabilities and to build on the interoperability between the JMSDF and the U.S. Navy.

    According to USNS Harvey Milk’s Ship Master Capt. James “Jim” White, this refueling event was a rare opportunity for the Harvey Milk crew to work with the professionals of the JMSDF and a chance to demonstrate the capabilities of the T-AO 205 class oiler. This event marked only the second time that a T-AO 205 class oiler has replenished two ships simultaneously.

    USNS Harvey Milk is the second ship of the T-AO 205 class oiler, operated by MSC. The ship provides diesel fuel, lubricating oil and jet fuel; small quantities of fresh and frozen provisions and dry stores; and potable water to Navy ships at sea. T-AOs add underway replenishment capacity to the Navy’s Combat Logistics Force (CLF) and is expected to become the cornerstone of the fuel delivery system.

    USNS Harvey Milk is named after U.S. Navy veteran and LGBT activist Harvey Milk who was one of the first openly gay candidates elected to public office as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1978.

    Constructed in the 1990’s, JS Kashima is JMSDF’s flagship training vessel, which helps trainees build relations with other nations and develop seamanship skills and international experience.

    JS Shimakaze is the second of the Hatakaze-class guided missile destroyers built for JMSDF. The vessel was reclassified as a training ship in 2021.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese high-speed trains roll with innovation progress

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 8 — During the week-long National Day holiday ending on Monday, China’s high-speed railway stations were often bustling with crowds. Some passengers could be seen lined up in an orderly fashion as they prepared to board, while others could be spotted browsing their smartphones or using laptops when waiting for their boarding calls.

    The country’s railway sector experienced a surge in passenger traffic on Monday as travelers returned home from their holiday destinations.

    A total of 13,103 trains were in operation on Monday, including 1,705 additional trains scheduled to meet the significant demand. This marked a historic high for a single day’s operational capacity, according to China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.

    China has built the world’s largest high-speed railway network to address the people’s growing demand for convenient and comfortable travel.

    The total operational length of China’s high-speed railway network has exceeded 45,000 kilometers, with Fuxing high-speed trains operating across 31 provincial-level regions nationwide.

    This growing volume of railway transportation is supported by innovations and high-quality development concerning China’s rail transit equipment. Notably, the Fuxing high-speed train project received the State Scientific and Technological Progress Award in June 2024.

    CHINESE RAILWAY INNOVATION

    Once upon a time, the slow train with its signature green color dominated the travel memories of many Chinese people.

    Since the Beijing-Tianjin Intercity Railway, with a design speed of 350 km per hour, entered operation in 2008, a fast-expanding modern high-speed railway network has been operating efficiently in the world’s second-largest economy.

    Now it takes just over eight hours to travel from Hong Kong in south China to Beijing in the north by high-speed rail, a Canadian passenger with the Xiaohongshu username Lao Han, shared on his social media platform this April, while adding that he enjoyed the different views from south to north during the journey.

    Previously, a train connecting the two cities took more than 24 hours to complete a one-way trip.

    Such a rail experience is not confined to the Hong Kong-Beijing trip, with many bullet trains running across the country, reaching a maximum speed of 350 kilometers per hour. CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles Co., Ltd in Changchun, northeast China’s Jilin Province, one of China’s major rail transit equipment enterprises, has long been contributing to the speeding up of the country’s railway travel options.

    Since the 1990s, China’s railway running speed has been repeatedly and significantly increased, with CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles introducing a number of upgraded and innovative products to provide equipment support for these accelerations.

    Notably, this company produced China’s first subway train and first group of high-speed trains. The country’s first aluminum alloy subway train, stainless steel subway train, monorail train, low-floor light rail vehicle, linear electric locomotive and automatic subway train were also manufactured in the factories of CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles.

    In July 2024, the company introduced a high-speed built-in bogie that can meet the needs of Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) trains at a speed of 400 km per hour.

    The high-speed built-in bogie serves as the running system and one of the core components of rail vehicles. “It acts as the legs of an EMU train,” explained Zhou Dianmai, a senior engineer of CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles. Equipped with such a bogie, a train can run faster and more steadily, while also generating less noise.

    Compared with traditional external bogies, the built-in bogie reduces the weight of the train by 20 percent — which can cut energy consumption by 15 percent during the vehicle’s operation, lower wheel-rail wear by about 30 percent, and reduce wheel-rail noise by around two decibels. In addition, maintenance cost during the whole life cycle is slashed by approximately 15 percent. This product is expected to facilitate the green and energy-saving transformation of EMU trains.

    At the EMU bogie production line of CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles, a big data analysis platform features key information, such as management costs and resource consumption. Through the processing of real-time data, this platform can generate product design and management suggestions.

    “The big data analysis platform improved the equipment utilization rate by 10 percent and decreased operation and management costs by 10 percent,” said Zhu Yan, deputy chief designer of the Fuxing bullet train at CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles. Total average annual costs were reduced by more than 5 million yuan (about 700,830 U.S. dollars).

    Through learning from overseas advanced experience and customizing according to China’s unique conditions, the company has achieved both key technologies concerning rail transit equipment and capability in terms of R&D and manufacturing of full-range EMU trains.

    On March 21, 2024, the world’s first city train powered by hydrogen, independently developed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles, conducted its maiden speed test run. Previously, such a combination of hydrogen energy and rail transit equipment had not been achieved.

    Running at a speed of 160 kilometers per hour at full load, the train consumed only five KWh energy per kilometer, while the data measuring each system confirmed stability during the test.

    So far, CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles has managed to build nine product platforms with advanced EMU, subway trains and maglev trains, covering R&D capabilities in terms of full-type and full-variety rail transit products.

    WELCOME ABOARD CHINESE TRAINS

    China’s high-speed trains, a successful example of independent innovation, are now regarded as a Chinese “calling card” and are welcomed globally.

    Indonesia’s Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway (HSR) noted in July 2024 that it had carried 4 million passengers since it began commercial operations on Oct. 17, 2023. Indonesian drivers have successfully operated the trains serving the HSR at a speed of 350 kilometers per hour.

    This is the first overseas high-speed railway project fully utilizing Chinese railway systems, technology and industrial components.

    The China Academy of Railway Sciences (CARS) has undertaken supervision and consultation concerning this high-speed railway, and has provided support in fields such as on-site quality control, drawing reviews and technical research.

    The 142.3-km high-speed railway has shortened the journey between Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, and Bandung, a famous tourist city, to only 40 minutes.

    Meanwhile, a landmark project of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, namely the China-Laos Railway, began operations in December 2021.

    “Before the China-Laos Railway opened, it took me two days to travel from Vientiane to Mongla by car,” said a Lao passenger. “Now, it takes me about five hours by train, which is very fast and convenient.”

    Another Chinese-built project, the Belgrade-Novi Sad high-speed railway, has transported nearly 8.8 million people between Serbia’s two largest cities since starting operation in 2022.

    At the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in October 2023, CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles signed a purchase contract with Serbia to introduce China’s bullet trains to this country in Eastern Europe.

    Based on a mature and reliable technical platform, both design and production of trains are tailored according to local railway conditions and technical specifications.

    In recent years, the products of CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles have been exported to 23 countries and regions. The company’s export business model currently covers the full life cycle service of vehicles, and it has set up 11 branches and subsidiaries worldwide.

    “China’s high-speed trains feature high levels of science and technology, strong brand influence and thriving innovation,” said Tao Guidong, a scientist of CRRC.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Britain has neglected Africa and the Commonwealth for over a decade: 4 ways it can reset relations

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nicholas Westcott, Professor of Practice in Diplomacy, Dept of Politics and International Studies, SOAS, University of London

    The United Kingdom is resetting its relations with Africa and other countries in the global south after more than a decade of neglect. At the United Nations in September, British prime minister Keir Starmer promised his government was

    returning the UK to responsible global leadership.

    This should include reconnecting with the countries of the global south which feel they have been neglected and among whom Britain’s voice is now at a discount.

    The new Labour government’s recently launched reviews of Britain’s global impact and its international economic and development policies provide an opportunity to reevaluate and relaunch these relations. The opportunity must be seized for the sake of global stability.

    The post-cold war order is fraying. America is increasingly reluctant to act as a global guarantor for a multilateral system governed by international rules and respecting human rights and freedoms. China, Russia and emerging middle powers such as Iran, Turkey and the Gulf States seem happier with a multipolar system based on the exercise of military and economic power. Meanwhile, the accelerating impact of climate change adds to the challenges to regional stability in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

    I have followed these questions for nearly 50 years, as an academic and diplomat. Much has changed in those years, but recent British governments have been slow to adapt to these changes. To reconnect with countries in Africa and the global south, Britain needs a new attitude as well as new policies; and, paradoxically perhaps, the Commonwealth can play a constructive role in achieving this.

    Britain’s problem

    Distracted by its domestic political and economic difficulties since Brexit, recent British governments have neglected both Africa and the Commonwealth.

    • Aid has been cut, and policy incoherence exacerbated by the merger between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Department for International Development.

    • An investment conference with Africa due earlier in 2024 was scrapped at short notice.

    • Successive prime ministers gave little time to meeting African and other leaders from the global south. They had no answer to the questions being asked about Britain’s relationship with the south.

    Yet Britain’s links to these countries remain strong. Not least through the growing diaspora communities in the UK that are now an integral part of Britain’s social and political fabric. With 5.5 million people of Asian heritage and 2.5 million of African or mixed heritage in the UK in 2021, these bonds need to be politically recognised.

    Read more: How Commonwealth countries have forged a new way to appoint judges

    Most of those Britons come from Commonwealth countries. The Commonwealth as an organisation is no substitute for closer engagement with individual countries. But it provides a forum where connections can be made and a new, more equal relationship built.

    Though British governments have neglected it, King Charles, the ceremonial head of the Commonwealth, has not, as his visit to Kenya in 2023 showed. And other countries are still seeking to join, as Gabon and Togo did last year.

    Commonwealth heads of government meeting

    From 21-26 October Samoa will host the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (Chogm), which will choose a new secretary-general – this time from Africa. The summit brings together representatives from every continent: from G7 members to least developed countries, from the most populous country (India at 1.45 billion people) to the smallest (Tuvalu with under 10,000), from major greenhouse gas emitters to small islands at risk of disappearing beneath the sea.

    Despite its imperial origins, the Commonwealth is an international network that cuts across the multi-polarity that risks dividing the world. It includes countries from the global south, the global north and the global east. The diversity makes it an ideal forum for honest conversations on difficult issues like climate change and multilateral institutional reform.

    Unlike the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Focac) in Beijing, the Commonwealth is an organisation run by its members. They share common values and interests as well as a common language. They come together to exchange ideas, not pledges of investment or aid. Its traditions of democracy and equality between members make it unique and valuable. It provides, for example, a ready-made network of global influence for any member state. For small island states, particularly in the Caribbean and Pacific, it is one forum where their voices can be amplified.

    This is important. With the community of nations struggling to address global challenges of the scale of climate change and pandemics, or to resolve regional conflicts, opportunities to build consensus are needed more than ever. The wars in Ukraine, the Middle East, the Sahel and the Horn of Africa are a portent of things to come if we fail to sustain a global structure that can resolve rather than exacerbate such conflicts. UN peacemaking efforts might then be crowned with success rather than with futility and frustration.

    What Britain needs to do

    Britain is only one among many voices, so it needs a persuasive narrative that will help preserve a world order that can tackle humanity’s challenges, rather than one that simply fights over what is left. The Commonwealth, like the UN, is a place where the UK can start building support for a more equal and more effective global system.

    A new narrative, and a new relationship with Africa and the global south, should be based on four elements.

    Firstly, repentance for sins past. Britain’s empire played a central role in making the modern world, for better and worse. While the better is often taken for granted, the sins of empire still rankle, and – like a stone in the shoe – will distract relations. Best therefore to acknowledge them, and move forward.

    Secondly, the new relationship must be based on mutual respect and partnership. In particular, the age of traditional development programmes with their paternalistic tendencies is past. What countries in the global south are seeking, as many feel they do get from China, is a genuine partnership of equals that recognises the relationship as a whole and focuses on the political as well as economic sources of growth.

    Thirdly, Britain needs to work with African and other southern governments to amplify their voice in multilateral institutions such as the UN and international financial institutions, so that those institutions genuinely protect their interests and those countries defend the institutions.

    Finally, Britain needs to engage with the public as much as with governments in these countries. The BBC World Service, the British Council and Britain’s education sector are becoming more important in challenging disinformation as the battle of narratives hots up. Now is the time to reinforce them, not let them fade away.

    A new narrative along these lines at Chogm, and incorporated into the government’s reviews, could be the start of a genuine reset in Britain’s relationship with the global south, to the benefit of all.

    – Britain has neglected Africa and the Commonwealth for over a decade: 4 ways it can reset relations
    – https://theconversation.com/britain-has-neglected-africa-and-the-commonwealth-for-over-a-decade-4-ways-it-can-reset-relations-239852

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Empowering Women Farmers in Central Asia: A New Era for Sustainable Agribusiness

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Empowering Women Farmers in Central Asia: A New Era for Sustainable Agribusiness

    The Central Asian Forum of Women Farmers, held on 8 October 2024 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, emphasized the significant achievements of women in local agribusiness.   At the same time, it highlighted the challenges they encounter in this key sector of the nation’s economy.
    The Forum brought together officials from national authorities, including the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, women entrepreneurs from Central Asia and Azerbaijan’s business communities, international agribusiness experts, as well as representatives from foreign companies and international organizations.
    Mrs. Gulnora Makhmudova, Chairperson of the International Business Women’s Association of Uzbekistan “TADBIRKOR AYOL” (IBWA), opened the event by emphasizing the importance of knowledge exchange across the region. In her speech, she also provided a detailed overview of women’s involvement in Uzbekistan’s agribusiness sector.
    The forum encouraged lively discussions, offering valuable perspectives on effective strategies to enhance gender balance in Central Asia’s agribusiness sector. Attendees actively networked and exchanged their in-depth knowledge and visions for further development and income generating activities.
    “As we come together at this forum, we have the unique opportunity to create a platform for discussing innovative technologies in women’s agribusiness. By sharing our experiences and best practices, we can increase the interest of rural women in starting their own businesses and promote the development of women-led farms in Uzbekistan,” said Ambassador Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. “Together, we can develop proposals aimed at expanding foreign trade and promoting the products of Central Asian women farmers to new markets. By creating conditions for reaching concrete agreements among participants, we can implement inclusive business projects in promising areas of rural development,” he added.
    The regional event, which concluded with a set of recommendations, was organized by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in collaboration with the IBWA and international donor organizations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Indiana Police Lieutenant Convicted of Federal Civil Rights Violation and Obstruction of Justice

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A federal jury convicted a former New Castle, Indiana, police lieutenant last Friday on multiple counts of using excessive force against people in custody and one count of obstruction of justice by witness tampering.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Aaron Jason Strong, 47, while a lieutenant at the New Castle Police Department, physically abused a suspect and two pretrial detainees and made false statements to an Indiana State Police detective who had been assigned to investigate an allegation against him.

    “Aaron Strong is a repeat offender who defied his oath and abused his law enforcement authority to violently and unlawfully assault multiple individuals,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant put his fellow officers in danger and grievously injured people in his custody, whose wellbeing and rights he had a legal and moral duty to protect. Strong betrayed the law enforcement profession when he told lie after lie in an effort to cover up his crimes and derail an independent investigation. This unanimous jury verdict makes clear a core principle in our country – law enforcement officers are not above the law and will be held accountable for their crimes.”

    “Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to serve our communities. Their jobs are difficult, dangerous and noble,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana. “Aaron Strong is not noble. He repeatedly and unlawfully abused his position of authority to inflict violence, injury and pain — with no lawful justification. He then lied to cover it up. Our community deserves better. Together with our partners at the Justice Department, the FBI and Indiana State Police, our federal prosecutors will continue to seek accountability for police who illegally assault those they are sworn to protect.”

    Evidence showed that, in August 2019, then-Lieutenant Strong responded to another officer’s report of a foot chase. As Strong arrived, the suspect stopped running, put his hands up, said “I’m done” and lowered himself to the ground. As another officer approached to take the suspect into custody, Strong ran up and struck the suspect at least 12 times with a metal police baton, nearly striking a fellow officer. The incident was promptly reported by other involved officers, and the Indiana State Police were called in to conduct an independent criminal investigation. During a meeting with the State Police investigator, Strong gave a false account of the incident in which he minimized his own use of force and exaggerated the danger posed by the suspect.

    Evidence also showed that, in July 2017, Strong, while acting in his capacity as the commanding officer of the Henry County, Indiana, SWAT Team, had abused two men being held in pretrial detention at the Henry County Transition Center, a low-security annex of the Henry County Jail. The SWAT Team had been requested to assist jail officers with moving a small number of inmates who had become intoxicated on contraband alcohol from the Transition Center to the main jail. While inside the Transition Center, Strong stomped on the head of a detainee who was complying with commands to lie on the ground. A few moments later, Strong approached a second inmate, who was kneeling, not moving, with his back to Strong, and shot him point-blank in the back with a less-lethal “beanbag” round, which Strong knew could cause death or serious bodily injury when used at short ranges. The impact from the round fractured the detainee’s spine.

    Numerous current and former New Castle and Henry County law enforcement officers testified for the prosecution.

    Strong was convicted of three counts of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of witness tampering. A co-defendant, Strong’s nephew, was found not guilty of one count of witness tampering.

    Strong is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 7, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 50 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Indianapolis Field Office and Indiana State Police investigated the case, with assistance from the New Castle Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Alec Ward of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Indiana Police Lieutenant Convicted of Federal Civil Rights Violation and Obstruction of Justice

    Source: US State of Vermont

    A federal jury convicted a former New Castle, Indiana, police lieutenant last Friday on multiple counts of using excessive force against people in custody and one count of obstruction of justice by witness tampering.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Aaron Jason Strong, 47, while a lieutenant at the New Castle Police Department, physically abused a suspect and two pretrial detainees and made false statements to an Indiana State Police detective who had been assigned to investigate an allegation against him.

    “Aaron Strong is a repeat offender who defied his oath and abused his law enforcement authority to violently and unlawfully assault multiple individuals,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant put his fellow officers in danger and grievously injured people in his custody, whose wellbeing and rights he had a legal and moral duty to protect. Strong betrayed the law enforcement profession when he told lie after lie in an effort to cover up his crimes and derail an independent investigation. This unanimous jury verdict makes clear a core principle in our country – law enforcement officers are not above the law and will be held accountable for their crimes.”

    “Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to serve our communities. Their jobs are difficult, dangerous and noble,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana. “Aaron Strong is not noble. He repeatedly and unlawfully abused his position of authority to inflict violence, injury and pain — with no lawful justification. He then lied to cover it up. Our community deserves better. Together with our partners at the Justice Department, the FBI and Indiana State Police, our federal prosecutors will continue to seek accountability for police who illegally assault those they are sworn to protect.”

    Evidence showed that, in August 2019, then-Lieutenant Strong responded to another officer’s report of a foot chase. As Strong arrived, the suspect stopped running, put his hands up, said “I’m done” and lowered himself to the ground. As another officer approached to take the suspect into custody, Strong ran up and struck the suspect at least 12 times with a metal police baton, nearly striking a fellow officer. The incident was promptly reported by other involved officers, and the Indiana State Police were called in to conduct an independent criminal investigation. During a meeting with the State Police investigator, Strong gave a false account of the incident in which he minimized his own use of force and exaggerated the danger posed by the suspect.

    Evidence also showed that, in July 2017, Strong, while acting in his capacity as the commanding officer of the Henry County, Indiana, SWAT Team, had abused two men being held in pretrial detention at the Henry County Transition Center, a low-security annex of the Henry County Jail. The SWAT Team had been requested to assist jail officers with moving a small number of inmates who had become intoxicated on contraband alcohol from the Transition Center to the main jail. While inside the Transition Center, Strong stomped on the head of a detainee who was complying with commands to lie on the ground. A few moments later, Strong approached a second inmate, who was kneeling, not moving, with his back to Strong, and shot him point-blank in the back with a less-lethal “beanbag” round, which Strong knew could cause death or serious bodily injury when used at short ranges. The impact from the round fractured the detainee’s spine.

    Numerous current and former New Castle and Henry County law enforcement officers testified for the prosecution.

    Strong was convicted of three counts of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of witness tampering. A co-defendant, Strong’s nephew, was found not guilty of one count of witness tampering.

    Strong is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 7, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 50 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Indianapolis Field Office and Indiana State Police investigated the case, with assistance from the New Castle Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Alec Ward of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Britain has neglected Africa and the Commonwealth for over a decade: 4 ways it can reset relations

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nicholas Westcott, Professor of Practice in Diplomacy, Dept of Politics and International Studies, SOAS, University of London

    The United Kingdom is resetting its relations with Africa and other countries in the global south after more than a decade of neglect. At the United Nations in September, British prime minister Keir Starmer promised his government was

    returning the UK to responsible global leadership.

    This should include reconnecting with the countries of the global south which feel they have been neglected and among whom Britain’s voice is now at a discount.

    The new Labour government’s recently launched reviews of Britain’s global impact and its international economic and development policies provide an opportunity to reevaluate and relaunch these relations. The opportunity must be seized for the sake of global stability.

    The post-cold war order is fraying. America is increasingly reluctant to act as a global guarantor for a multilateral system governed by international rules and respecting human rights and freedoms. China, Russia and emerging middle powers such as Iran, Turkey and the Gulf States seem happier with a multipolar system based on the exercise of military and economic power. Meanwhile, the accelerating impact of climate change adds to the challenges to regional stability in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

    I have followed these questions for nearly 50 years, as an academic and diplomat. Much has changed in those years, but recent British governments have been slow to adapt to these changes. To reconnect with countries in Africa and the global south, Britain needs a new attitude as well as new policies; and, paradoxically perhaps, the Commonwealth can play a constructive role in achieving this.

    Britain’s problem

    Distracted by its domestic political and economic difficulties since Brexit, recent British governments have neglected both Africa and the Commonwealth.

    • Aid has been cut, and policy incoherence exacerbated by the merger between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Department for International Development.

    • An investment conference with Africa due earlier in 2024 was scrapped at short notice.

    • Successive prime ministers gave little time to meeting African and other leaders from the global south. They had no answer to the questions being asked about Britain’s relationship with the south.

    Yet Britain’s links to these countries remain strong. Not least through the growing diaspora communities in the UK that are now an integral part of Britain’s social and political fabric. With 5.5 million people of Asian heritage and 2.5 million of African or mixed heritage in the UK in 2021, these bonds need to be politically recognised.



    Read more:
    How Commonwealth countries have forged a new way to appoint judges

    Most of those Britons come from Commonwealth countries. The Commonwealth as an organisation is no substitute for closer engagement with individual countries. But it provides a forum where connections can be made and a new, more equal relationship built.

    Though British governments have neglected it, King Charles, the ceremonial head of the Commonwealth, has not, as his visit to Kenya in 2023 showed. And other countries are still seeking to join, as Gabon and Togo did last year.

    Commonwealth heads of government meeting

    From 21-26 October Samoa will host the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (Chogm), which will choose a new secretary-general – this time from Africa. The summit brings together representatives from every continent: from G7 members to least developed countries, from the most populous country (India at 1.45 billion people) to the smallest (Tuvalu with under 10,000), from major greenhouse gas emitters to small islands at risk of disappearing beneath the sea.

    Despite its imperial origins, the Commonwealth is an international network that cuts across the multi-polarity that risks dividing the world. It includes countries from the global south, the global north and the global east. The diversity makes it an ideal forum for honest conversations on difficult issues like climate change and multilateral institutional reform.

    Unlike the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Focac) in Beijing, the Commonwealth is an organisation run by its members. They share common values and interests as well as a common language. They come together to exchange ideas, not pledges of investment or aid. Its traditions of democracy and equality between members make it unique and valuable. It provides, for example, a ready-made network of global influence for any member state. For small island states, particularly in the Caribbean and Pacific, it is one forum where their voices can be amplified.

    This is important. With the community of nations struggling to address global challenges of the scale of climate change and pandemics, or to resolve regional conflicts, opportunities to build consensus are needed more than ever. The wars in Ukraine, the Middle East, the Sahel and the Horn of Africa are a portent of things to come if we fail to sustain a global structure that can resolve rather than exacerbate such conflicts. UN peacemaking efforts might then be crowned with success rather than with futility and frustration.

    What Britain needs to do

    Britain is only one among many voices, so it needs a persuasive narrative that will help preserve a world order that can tackle humanity’s challenges, rather than one that simply fights over what is left. The Commonwealth, like the UN, is a place where the UK can start building support for a more equal and more effective global system.

    A new narrative, and a new relationship with Africa and the global south, should be based on four elements.

    Firstly, repentance for sins past. Britain’s empire played a central role in making the modern world, for better and worse. While the better is often taken for granted, the sins of empire still rankle, and – like a stone in the shoe – will distract relations. Best therefore to acknowledge them, and move forward.

    Secondly, the new relationship must be based on mutual respect and partnership. In particular, the age of traditional development programmes with their paternalistic tendencies is past. What countries in the global south are seeking, as many feel they do get from China, is a genuine partnership of equals that recognises the relationship as a whole and focuses on the political as well as economic sources of growth.

    Thirdly, Britain needs to work with African and other southern governments to amplify their voice in multilateral institutions such as the UN and international financial institutions, so that those institutions genuinely protect their interests and those countries defend the institutions.

    Finally, Britain needs to engage with the public as much as with governments in these countries. The BBC World Service, the British Council and Britain’s education sector are becoming more important in challenging disinformation as the battle of narratives hots up. Now is the time to reinforce them, not let them fade away.

    A new narrative along these lines at Chogm, and incorporated into the government’s reviews, could be the start of a genuine reset in Britain’s relationship with the global south, to the benefit of all.

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

    – ref. Britain has neglected Africa and the Commonwealth for over a decade: 4 ways it can reset relations – https://theconversation.com/britain-has-neglected-africa-and-the-commonwealth-for-over-a-decade-4-ways-it-can-reset-relations-239852

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Regular Press Conference of the Ministry of National Defense on September 26 2024-10-08 Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), releases news at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    (The following English text of the press conference is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

    Zhang Xiaogang: Friends from the media, good afternoon. Welcome to this month’s regular press conference of the Ministry of National Defense.

    I have four pieces of news at the top.

    The first one.

    At the invitation of the Ministry of National Defense of Laos, the rotating chair of ASEAN, a working group of China’s Ministry of National Defense attended the ASEAN Defense Senior Officials’ Meeting-Plus in Vientiane on Sep. 26th. During the meeting, the Chinese side had discussions with representatives of other parties on international and regional security landscape, and advocated to jointly promote the Global Security Initiative, strengthen strategic communication and deepen defense cooperation to consolidate regional peace and stability.

    The second one.

    China’s Ministry of National Defense hosted the 21st Expert Working Group (EWG) meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) Defense Ministers’ Meeting in PLA National Defense University in Beijing from September 25th to 26th. Representatives from SCO member states and the Secretariat exchanged views on military cooperation at the event. This is the first EWG meeting under the SCO Defense Ministers’ Meeting hosted by China after its assumption of the rotating presidency. It’s also the first time for Belarus to attend as a full member of the SCO.

    The third one.

    At the invitation of the South African Navy, PLA Navy ship (PLANS) Xuchang from the 46th naval task group for escort missions will participate in the International Navy Day in Cape Town in early October. During the event, PLANS Xuchang will participate in the international fleet review and host an Open Day activity. In addition, it will have a maritime drill with the South African Navy.

    The fourth one.

    The Chinese government and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons(OPCW) will co-host the third training course on medical aid and protection against chemical weapons in PLA Air Force Medical University from October 13th to 19th. Over 30 participants from more than 20 State Parties including Germany, Brazil and Morocco will participate in the training. They will focus on topics such as the symptom, diagnose and treatment of chemical weapons poisoning, the medical transportation and classification of the injured by chemical weapons, and organization and implementation of medical recue in dealing with chemical weapons. In the spirit of the Chemical Weapons Convention, the course is to strengthen rescue and response capabilities against chemical weapons, enhance capacity-building in medical protection and treatment, and contribute to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), releases news at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Question: There are growing interaction between the Chinese and US militaries in recent time. The commanders of the PLA Southern Theatre Command and US Indo-PACOM had a video phone call. US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for China attended the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum and the two sides had the 18th Defense Policy Coordination Talks. What’s your comment on the current China-US mil-mil relations and what interaction the two sides will have in the future?

    Zhang Xiaogang: President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden had a successful meeting in San Francisco last November, and the two leaders talked on the phone this April. They have set the direction for a sound, stable and sustainable China-US relationship. At present, there is a stabler momentum in the overall and defense relations between China and the US. The two militaries maintain high-level strategic communication, policy communication, institutionalized dialogues and exchanges in specialized fields. These engagements could help enhance mutual understanding, avoid miscalculation, and manage and control risks.

    We require the US side to recalibrate its strategic perception on China, return to a sensible and practical China policy, and respect China’s major concerns. The US should make concerted efforts with China in the principle of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation to stabilize and improve the mil-mil relationship through candid, effective and constructive dialogues and cooperation.

    Question: I have two questions. First, according to a recent statement by the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), the United States urges China to reconsider using dangerous and coercive strategies that may escalate tensions in the South China Sea and other regions, What’s your comment? Second, at the news conference of the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition yesterday, the deputy commander of the PLA Air Force said that many new types of aircraft developed by the PLAAF in recent years will be exhibited this time. Netizens are all eager to see the H-20 bomber. Can you provide us with more information?

    Zhang Xiaogang: It is the US and its allies who is creating risks. Their vessels and aircraft have been conducting frequent close-in reconnaissance in China’s vicinity, trespassing into China’s territorial seas or administered maritime and air space, harassing routine exercises of the Chinese side, and taking irresponsible and dangerous moves. These operations severely undermine China’s sovereignty and security interests, put the safety of Chinese and their own personnel at risk, and jeopardize regional peace and stability. According to preliminary statistics, by September this year, the US military has sent about 1500 aircraft to China’s vicinity for reconnaissance or harassment, which fully showcased that the US side is a provocative and disruptive actor.

    We urge the US side stop false narratives, stop dangerous and provocative operations, and strictly discipline its troops on the ground. The Chinese military is on high alert and will take legitimate and necessary measures to respond to provocation and safeguard China’s sovereignty, security and development interests.

    On your second question, I think relevant departments will release information in due course and you can follow that.

    Question: On the morning of September 25th, China launched an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific after 44 years. Does this mean that China is accelerating the development of its nuclear forces? Will there be any change in China’s nuclear policy?

    Zhang Xiaogang: This ICBM launch is to test our weapon and training performance. It is a legitimate and routine arrangement for military training. China nuclear policy is very stable, consistent and predictable. We strictly follow a nuclear policy of no first use of nuclear weapons and pursue a nuclear strategy of self-defense. China does not seek any arms race. We have promised not using or threatening to use nuclear weapons against no-nuclear-weapon states or nuclear-weapon-free zones. China will continue to keep its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required for national security.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Question: The Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress recently approved the National Defense Education Law, which will come into effect on September 21. Please give us more details about the amendment of this law.

    Zhang Xiaogang: Defense makes a country and its people safe. The amendment of the national defense education law focuses on 4 aspects. First, it confirms the CPC’s leadership over defense education, and requires building a system with centralized and unified leadership, clear division of responsibilities, and civil-military coordination. Second, it emphasizes the combination of defense education at school and military service publicity. There are requirements to improve defense education at school to raise students’ awareness of perform military service in accordance with the law. Third, it regulates that the outline for military training for students should be co-drafted by relevant agencies for educational under the State Council and the CMC. Higher education institutes and high schools should organize military training based on the outline to strengthen military skills training and temper the will and discipline of students. Fourth, it asks to expand the scope and channels for defense education. Local governments can use opportunities of major festivals, commemorative days and thematic events to carry out extensive activities on defense education to strengthen the awareness for national defense in the society.

    Question: US Army Secretary said recently that he discussed with Japan’s Defense Minister about deploying US Army multi-domain special task groups during his visit to Japan. Some analysts say it means the US may deploy Typhon mid-range missile system to Japan. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: We are closely following relevant moves. US deployment of mid-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific Region will intensify arms race, threaten regional countries and undermine global strategic balance. China is firmly opposed to it. What Asia-Pacific needs is peace and prosperity rather than conflict and confrontation. We urge the US side to stop this dangerous move and do not create tensions in the region. The Japanese side should stay cautious and do not invite the wolf into the house, otherwise, it would only push itself into a dangerous situation. The Chinese side will take resolute and effective measures to respond in accordance with the developments of the situation and its own needs.

    Question: The US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell recently said at a meeting of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee that China poses the greatest challenge to the United States and the China threat is more serious than the Cold War. The 2022 National Defense Strategy report issued by the Commission on the National Defense Strategy said that the United States, due to its outdated defense strategy, unreasonable military structure, and inadequate capacity of the defense industry, is unable to handle the dual threats from China and Russia. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: In recent years, by perceiving China with its own hegemonic thinking and the Chinese military from a perspective of competition and threat, the US has gone too far to play up the alleged “China military threat”. Its intention is nothing more than finding an excuse for expanding its own military power. Records have shown that the US side is the biggest challenge to world peace and a source of future global warfare. China is opposed to US Cold War thinking and its narratives or actions that intensify confrontation and undermine China’s strategic security and interests.

    China is a contributor to world peace and development and a defender of the international order. We stay committed to a defensive defense policy. China’s defense and military modernization is to safeguard its own security and interests and contributes to world peace. Playing the China card won’t help the us to solve its own problems. We require the US to have a sensible and objective view on China and China’s military development and strategic intentions. It should put more efforts on things that can help shore up China-US bilateral relations and consolidate regional peace and stability.

    Question: The 2024 Quad Leaders Summit issued a joint statement which did not mention China directly but criticized coercive and intimidating maneuvers in the South China Sea. It also announced to launch a first-ever Quad-at-sea Ship Observer Mission by coast guards of the four countries in 2025. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: Relevant joint statement uses vague languages to cover its malicious intention to target China. It needs to be emphasized that China has indisputable sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao and its adjacent waters. It is fully legitimate, justified and beyond reproach for China to conduct constructions on our own territory and carry out law-enforcement operations in waters and airspace under our jurisdiction. Though not directly concerned in the South China Sea issue, the US, Japan, India and Australia are resorting to microphone diplomacy to criticize and smear China and stir up troubles and mislead the public. In particular, the US has deployed offensive weapons in the region, worked with its allies to step up military exercises, and conduct close-in reconnaissance against China’s islands and reefs. Talking about militarization, coercion, bullying, and bloc confrontation in the South China Sea, I think the US deserves these labels more than any other country.

    Joint maritime operations carried out by relevant countries should contribute to regional peace and stability, and not harm the interests of any third party. The Chinese side is firmly opposed to actions that may stir up troubles and escalate tensions in the South China Sea. We will firmly defend our own sovereignty, security and maritime rights and interest, and maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Question: Both China and India have recently made positive statements about de-escalating the situation in their border area, and the Chinese foreign ministry also spoke of disengagement of troops in four areas, including the Galwan Valley. There is a great deal of expectation that there will be disengagement in other areas along the border. What is your comment, please？

    Zhang Xiaogang: For quite some time, under the guidance of the two state leaders, China and India have maintained communications with each other through diplomatic and military channels, including between the two foreign ministers, between the Chinese foreign minister and Indian national security adviser, and through the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), and the Corps Commander Level Meetings. Through these discussions and communications, the two sides were able to reduce their differences and build some consensus. They have agreed to strengthen dialogues, accommodate each other’s legitimate concerns, and reach a resolution at an early date that is acceptable to both sides. Before that day comes, the two sides will continue to consolidate the outcomes, strictly abide by bilateral agreements on border issues and confidence-building measures to jointly safeguard peace and tranquility along the border.

    Question: I have two questions. First, Chinese and Nepalese militaries had a joint training, the Sagarmatha Friendship-2024, in late September in south China’s Chongqing. Can you give us more details? Second, the PLA used a Z-9 helicopter to stop and dispel an intruding Philippine reconnaissance aircraft from Huangyan Dao. What is your comment, please?

    Zhang Xiaogang: On your first question. The Chinese and Nepalese armies are carrying out Sagarmatha Friendship-2024 joint military training. With troops in mixed units, this training focuses on joint counter-terrorism operations in urban neighborhoods and covers comprehensive subjects including multidimensional search, check point setting and blockade, stalking, rescue with arms, evacuation under cover, and clearing and screening. Alongside the training, the two sides also organized activities such as sports games, art performance and cultural exchanges. The Sagarmatha Friendship is a signature program between the Chinese and Nepalese militaries, and it is the 4th of its kind this year. The PLA will work with the Nepalese side to strengthen military trust and substantive cooperation, and build a closer China-Nepal community of shared future in the new era.

    On your second question. The Huangyan Dao is an inalienable part of Chinese territory and China has indisputable sovereignty over it and its adjacent waters. For some time now, the Philippine side has been sending public or military vessels and aircraft to intrude into the airspace and maritime waters of Huangyan Dao without the approval of the Chinese side, which has seriously violated China’s sovereignty and undermined regional peace and stability. The Chinese side has taken necessary measures in accordance with law to stop and dispel these Philippine ships and aircraft and our operations have been professional and restrained. We will continue to take necessary measures to safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in Huangyan Dao.

    Question: It is reported that on September 25th, frigates from the JMSDF transited through the Taiwan Strait. Does the Chinese side know about this? What is your comment, please?

    Zhang Xiaogang: On September 25th, Japanese destroyer Sazanami, Australian destroyer the HMAS Sydney, and New Zealand supply ship the HMNZS Aotearoa conducted transit operations through the Taiwan Strait. The PLA stayed on high alert and monitored the transit. We are opposed to such provocations in the name of the so-called “freedom of navigation” that send wrong signals to the “Taiwan independence” separatist forces and undermine China’s sovereignty and security.

    The Taiwan question is an internal affair of China that brooks no foreign interference. We urge relevant countries to respect the One China principle, stop mudding the water on this question, and stop undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The PLA will remain on high alert and take all necessary measures to counter any threats and provocations.

    Question: I have two questions. First, according to media reports, the Russian military has sent maritime and air forces to participate in China’s Northern/Interaction-2024 exercise. Can you give us more details? Second, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship 9701 has withdrew from Xianbin Jiao and the PCG said it would send another ship to the reef and would not let it become a second Huangyan Dao. Philippine Defense Secretary said that if China removes the Philippine ship grounded at Ren’ai Jiao, it would be an act of war. What’s your comment? 

    Zhang Xiaogang: According to this year’s cooperation plan between Chinese and Russian militaries, the Russian military participated in Exercise Beibu Unity-2024 organized by the PLA Northern Theater Command in relevant waters and airspace of the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk from September 10th to 27th. More than 10 vessels and over 30 aircraft from the two sides were involved. The exercise is an effective test on interoperability of the two militaries in tactical commanding and joint operations. It further deepened strategic coordination between the two militaries and contributed to maintaining regional peace and stability and addressing security challenges.

    After the exercise, relevant Chinese and Russian navy task groups will conduct joint maritime patrols in relevant waters of the Pacific.

    The Philippine side recently pulled out PCG 9701 which had been illegally anchored in the lagoon of Xianbin Jiao. It is the only right way forward and is conducive to restoring peace and stability in relevant waters. China has indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Qundao and its adjacent waters, including Ren’ai Jiao and Xianbin Jiao. We will take firm countermeasures against any act that infringes China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. Actions that violate the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and undermine regional peace and stability are unwelcomed. We urge the Philippine side not to have illusion and miscalculation and stop making any risky and futile provocations.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Question: It is reported that China has recently sent marine troops to Brazil to participate in the Operation Formosa 2024 multilateral exercise. Can you give us more details?

    Zhang Xiaogang: A contingent from the PLAN Marine Corps participated in the Operation Formosa-2024 multinational joint exercise in Brazil recently. The subject of the exercise is joint landing and counter-landing operations. It is the first time for China to participate in the exercise and the Chinese troops had good exchanges with other participating forces. The exercise helped build trust and friendship, and strengthened the capability of participating countries in jointly addressing security challenges.

    Question: According to media reports, the Chinese military recently hosted demining courses for Cambodia and Laos. Can you give us more information?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The PLA Army Engineering University hosted two demining courses for personnel from Cambodia and Laos respectively from July 1st to September 27th. Senior delegations from Cambodia and Laos, and representatives from the UN Mine Action Service(UNMAS), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center attended the graduation ceremony, and spoke highly of the demining courses as well as the graduation drills.

    Cambodia and Laos are the most severely affected regions by mines. The Chinese military attaches great importance to international cooperation on demining, and takes cooperation and assistance on Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) as an important step for building a community with a shared future for mankind and implementing the Global Security Initiative. Over the past 20-plus years, we have trained over 700 demining professionals from more than 20 countries, and sent demining EWG abroad to conduct on-site teaching multiple times. The Chinese military will continue to strengthen substantive cooperation with militaries in the region, and make contributions to international humanitarian demining cause.

    Question: Recently the promotional video Cui Huo (Being Tempered)  received a lot of coverage from both domestic and foreign media. Can you give us more information?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The promotional video Cuihuo (Being Tempered) co-produced by the CMC Political Work Department, the Office of the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission and the China Media Group started airing on CCTV-1 on September 11. It was simultaneously uploaded to major web portals and covered by more than 300 Chinese and foreign media. Views and clicks of the video have reached 5.37 billion. The video represents innovative efforts of the military to promote Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military online, and another masterpiece after two promotional videos Zhuiguang (Chasing Light) and Zhumeng (Following Dream).

    Cuihuo is about how the military is raising political awareness and improving combat readiness. It tells touching and thought-provoking stories about ordinary service members from multiple perspectives, reflecting enhanced political loyalty of the people’s military and its solidarity and confidence in building a strong military. The popularity of these promotional videos shows the strength of Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military, and the confidence and resolve of the Chinese military to achieve its centenary goal.

    Question: Taiwan’s defense authorities recently submitted to the legislative body its budget for 2025 which amounts to 667b TWD (148b RMB). According to another report, Taiwan’s army will purchase many types of UAVs for monitoring and attack in urban battlefields. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: Sticking to its policy of “Taiwan Independence”, the DPP authorities have been ignoring public opinion, making irresponsible moves and going further down the dangerous path of seeking independence by force. The more they spend on purchasing weapons, the more insecure people in Taiwan will feel. This strategy will only push Taiwan closer to the brinks of war. We warn the DPPD authorities that those who do wrong things will court its own destruction. More weapons will not change the fate of Taiwan Independence. The PLA has full capabilities to smash all separatist attempts for TWI and defend China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    Question: What’s the type of the ICBM launched yesterday by the PLA rocket force? What signal is the PLA trying to send to the international community?

    Zhang Xiaogang: On the test launch of the ICBM, we have released information on that in a timely manner, and I have no more information to add. I want to emphasize that this test launch is in line with international law and practice and is not directed at any country or target.

    Question: According to reports, the first F-16V fighter Taiwan bought from the US will be delivered at the end of September. And 26 UAV manufacturers recently visited Taiwan. Chief of the Taipei Office of the America Institute in Taiwan said recently that there was a possibility for the US and Taiwan to jointly manufacture weapons. Meanwhile, some media reports said there are large numbers of moldy bulletproof vests and expired ammunitions in weapons assisted by the US to Taiwan. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: We are firmly opposed to any official and military contact between the US and China’s Taiwan region. Currently, the biggest threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is separatist activities by the forces for Taiwan Independence and acquiesced support provided by external forces. Whether it’s US arms sale to Taiwan or so-called joint manufacturing of weapons, the true purpose is never protecting Taiwan but using the DPP authorities as a dumb cash machine to dump obsolete and stockpiled weapons and feed the US military-industrial complex. We warn the DPP authorities that the fate of a pawn is being abandoned. Those courting the US to damage Taiwan will be punished by time and justice. The PLA will take all necessary measures to defeat any separatist attempt for Taiwan Independence and foreign interference.

    Question: In the video Cui Huo, we heard a J-20 pilot saying in an interview that he can never forget the moment when he saw the Taiwan island while flying in his aircraft. This sparked conjectures that the stealth fighter J-20 also participated in a patrol over Taiwan. Can you confirm that?

    Zhang Xiaogang: Taiwan is a part of the Chinese territory. The PLA fighters can go there as they want. There is no need to be surprised.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Question: I have two questions. The first is about the continued tensions in Lebanon. Recently, the engineering detachment of the Chinese peacekeeping forces in Lebanon successfully cleared an undetonated rocket shell. What is your comment on the incident? Second, the national security adviser from the Philippines recently said that they plan to purchase mid-range missiles and will continue to use America’s Typhon missile system for training, which means the system may continue to stay in the Philippines. What is your comment on that?

    Zhang Xiaogang: On your first question, China is closely following the security situation in Lebanon, and we will further strengthen the security protection of our troops.

    On your second question. China has made our opposition clear concerning US deployment of mid-range missiles in the Philippines under the cover of military exercises. We urge the US side to correct this wrong move and withdraw the missile system to fulfill its prior promise. The Philippine side should not have any miscalculation. Binding itself to the US chariot would only bring damages to itself. China has many options in its toolkit. We will take effective measures to respond in accordance with the developments of the situation.

    Question: I have two questions. First, on September 26th, the defense authorities in Taiwan said that they monitored several PLA aircraft flying around the Taiwan Strait. Experts say the exercise was to prevent foreign interference. Can you tell us the purpose of this exercise? Second, about yesterday’s ICBM launch, which countries has China informed beforehand? The Japanese government said that it was not informed. Can you comment on that? Some experts say that this launch may increase tensions in this region. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: On your first question, it is legitimate and reasonable for the PLA to organize exercises and training activities in the sea and airspace around Taiwan Island. We will continue to strengthen military training and combat readiness, and regularly organize relevant military operations.

    On your second question, the test launch of the ICBM by the PLA Rocket Force is consistent with international law and practices. Before the launch, we have issued warnings specifying the prohibited time and areas and informed several countries in advance through military and diplomatic channels. This fully demonstrates the openness and transparency of the PLA.

    Question: Japan’s defense ministry announced a large-scale restructuring of its maritime self-defense force to establish a new marine corps and alert contingency. It also plans to increase defense budget and build a small satellite network. Some analysts say Japan may assist US intervention in the Taiwan Straits.

    Zhang Xiaogang: We have noticed relevant moves by the Japanese side. In recent years, Japan has been accelerating restructuring of its combat forces and build-up in new domains, and developing long-range attack capabilities. There is a growing tendency for Japan to return to its militarist past, which violates its Pacifist Constitution and purely defensive defense, and challenges the post-war international order. We urge the Japanese side to take lessons from history, be cautious in military security and contributes to regional peace and stability instead of the opposite.

    Question: I have two questions. First, the US Navy recently issued a strategic guideline on naval operations that claimed that the Chinese mainland has the greatest capabilities in the world in ship manufacturing and that the US should be prepared for a conflict with China in 2027. What is your comment, please? Second, the Chinese Ministry of State Security exposed a hacker organization called “Anonymous 64”, saying that the people behind this organization are from the Taiwan military. What is your comment, please?

    Zhang Xiaogang: On your first question, I think this rhetoric from the US side exposes again its Cold War mindset and militant nature. I have to stress that China has no intention of challenging or replacing the United States. The goal of our development is to deliver a better life for the Chinese people and provide new opportunities for world peace and development. China is on the course to build a strong nation and realize national rejuvenation through the Chinese path to modernization. No foreign forces can stop this trend. The Chinese military fears no threats or challenges, and will take firm actions to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.

    On your second question, you can inquire about relevant authorities for more information.

    Question: The American website, Defense News, recently reported that the US plan to provide Taiwan with nearly US$570 million worth of “security assistance” has come to the final stage. This is by far the largest package assistance from the US to Taiwan region, which will be spent on training, reserves, anti-armor weapons, air defense, UAVs, and other subjects to protect Taiwan from military attacks from the Chinese mainland. What is your comment, please?

    Zhang Xiaogang: We have noticed relevant reports. China is consistently opposed to the US selling weapons to the Taiwan region. What it has done has grossly violated the One China principle and the three China-US Joint Communiques, severely undermined China’s sovereignty and security interests, and sent very wrong signals to “Taiwan independence” separatist forces. It must be pointed out that the US attempt to contain China with Taiwan, to root for the DPP authorities and to bloat the arrogance of “Taiwan independence” separatist forces by providing military assistance and selling weapons to them, will do nothing but undermine the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. These actions will eventually backfire to burn the United States itself.

    We urge the US side to stop military collusion with Taiwan and stop arming Taiwan in any way in order to maintain the relations between the two countries and the two militaries. Taiwan belongs to China. It is just across the strait from the mainland, and we will never let it drift away. The PLA will never back down in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. We will take firm actions to defeat any attempts at Taiwan independence and any interference by foreign forces.

    Question: The website of Taiwan defense authorities recently released information that they have received detected mainland forces conducting joint landing exercises in waters near Dachengwan in Dongshan, Fujian Province. The exercise involved many types of fighters, helicopters and UAVs coupled with amphibious ships and RO-RO cargo ships loaded with ground forces. Taiwan defense authorities said they will closely monitor the exercise. What is your comment, please？

    Zhang Xiaogang: The relevant exercise is a routine arrangement within the PLA’s annual plan aimed to improve the capabilities of our troops for fulfilling missions and tasks. The PLA fears no reconnaissance or harassment against its operations. The DPP authorities should be fully aware of the strong capabilities and firm will of the PLA, see clearly that “Taiwan independence” will never succeed, and completely abandon their separatist illusion.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of September 26, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Zhang Xiaogang: In a few days, we are going to celebrate the 75th birthday of the PRC. In our epic journey in the past 75 years, Chinese people, under the leadership of the CPC, have made remarkable and historical achievements. Over the past 75 years, under the absolute leadership of the CPC, the people’s military has grown stronger through wars, challenges, reforms and transformation. It is always an iron great wall in defending national sovereignty, security, and development interests, and a staunch force for world peace and stability. Today, China is building a strong country and advancing national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization, and the Chinese military is forging ahead to achieve its centenary goal and build itself into a world-class military. Here, allow me to wish enduring peace and great prosperity to our great motherland!

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ageas and BNP Paribas: Transparency notification

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Ageas and BNP Paribas: Transparency notification

    In accordance with the rules on financial transparency*, BNP Paribas has notified Ageas on 3 October 2024 that, on 3 October 2024, its interest has exceeded the legal threshold of 10% of the shares issued by Ageas. BNP Paribas’ current shareholding stands at 10,91%.

    Reason for the notification
    Acquisition or disposal of voting securities or voting rights

    Notification by
    A parent undertaking or a controlling person

    Persons subject to the notification requirement
    See annex 1a

    Date on which the threshold is crossed
    3 October 2024

    Threshold that is crossed (in %)
    10%

    Denominator
    187,971,187

    Notified details
    See annex 1 b

    Chain of controlled undertakings through which the holding is effectively held, if applicable
    The full chain of command can be found on https://www.ageas.com/investors/shareholders

    Additional information
    This transparency notification is intended to declare that BNP Paribas S.A. has crossed, on a consolidated basis, the 10% threshold upwards. This transparency notification is made in connection with the transaction announced by BNP Paribas S.A. and Fosun Group on April 14, 2024. The 3,473,271 shares (1.85%) in the capital of Ageas held by BNP Paribas Fortis SA/NV are pledged to the benefit of holders of the “CASHES” (bonds exchangeable for Ageas shares) as security for BNP Paribas Fortis SA/NV’s obligation to deliver such shares to holders of CASHES upon the exercise of their right of exchange against Ageas shares pursuant to the terms and conditions of such instruments. The voting rights associated with these Ageas shares are suspended. In accordance with Article 10, §4 of the Law of May 2, 2007 on the disclosure of major shareholdings in issuers whose shares are admitted to trading on a regulated market, voting rights held in trading books are not taken into account in this transparency notification.

    This press release and the notifications received by Ageas are available on the website.

    * article 14, paragraph 1 of the law of 2 May 2007 on disclosure of major holdings us provisions.

    Ageas is a listed international insurance Group with a heritage spanning 200 years. It offers Retail and Business customers Life and Non-Life insurance products designed to suit their specific needs, today and tomorrow, and is also engaged in reinsurance activities. As one of Europe’s larger insurance companies, Ageas concentrates its activities in Europe and Asia, which together make up the major part of the global insurance market. It operates successful insurance businesses in Belgium, the UK, Portugal, Türkiye, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines through a combination of wholly owned subsidiaries and long term partnerships with strong financial institutions and key distributors. Ageas ranks among the market leaders in the countries in which it operates. It represents a staff force of about 50,000 people and reported annual inflows of EUR 17.1 billion in 2023.

     Annexes can be found in pdf version.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Improving Access to Small Business Funding: OEDIT Announces Partner Outreach Program

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis and the Business Support division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced the Partner Outreach Program (POP) to connect Colorado entrepreneurs and small business owners to OEDIT programs. A network of partners with expertise in serving rural, minority-owned, and immigrant-owned businesses has been established to work with businesses across the state to access loans and funding that can help them take steps to grow their businesses.

    “Helping small businesses across the state with access to funding and technical assistance will help small businesses thrive and strengthen Colorado’s economy. Small businesses drive our economy and with access to these experienced partners and their resources, Colorado will continue to be the best place in the country for anyone to start and grow a business,” said Governor Polis.

    Several OEDIT programs specialize in serving businesses that have had trouble securing a loan, need a smaller-than-average loan to get up and running, or have not borrowed money before.

    “Small businesses make up 99.5% of Colorado’s economy. When small businesses have access to financing that meets their needs, they can take important steps to grow their revenues and create new jobs. The Partner Outreach Program is an innovative program that responds to community needs and will expand our outreach efforts across the vast majority of the state. That means new opportunities for Colorado’s small businesses, including those that have historically encountered barriers to funding and support,” said Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director.

    To establish the POP network, six partners have been selected for their ability to serve diverse Colorado businesses, with a special emphasis on serving business owners who have historically encountered barriers to business capital and loans. All partners have a demonstrated history as a trusted community organization committed to community outreach, community development, and/or experience with supporting small businesses to access capital.

    Collectively, these partners offer support for a wide range of demographic groups and reach at least 90% of the state, from the Western Slope to the rural Eastern Plains and southern Colorado.

    • Black Business Initiative – Specializes in serving indigenous and Black communities in the Denver Metro area and San Luis Valley.
    • Community Enterprise Development Services – Serves business owners in the Denver Metro, Fort Collins, Weld County and Morgan County. Experienced working with Ethiopian, Islamic, Korean, Somali and underserved communities with an additional focus on communities speaking a language other than English.
    • Overwrite – Specializes in serving immigrant, migrant, Hispanic, Asian and Southeast Asian, African and Black communities in the Denver Metro area and Colorado Springs.
    • Prairie Rose – Has a demonstrated history of serving Spanish speaking communities in the Western Slope, Eastern Plains, and Durango communities.
    • Startup Colorado – Serves the Eastern Plains and the San Luis Valley, with experience serving business owners in all rural communities.
    • Wezesha Dada Center – Active in the Denver, Pueblo, Eastern Plains, Aurora, and Colorado Springs, with experience serving immigrant, migrant, diaspora, refugee and Black communities.

    About Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

    The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works with partners to create a positive business climate that encourages dynamic economic development and sustainable job growth. Under the leadership of Governor Jared Polis, we strive to advance the State’s economy through financial and technical assistance that fosters local and regional economic development activities throughout Colorado. OEDIT offers a host of programs and services tailored to support business development at every level including business retention services, business relocation services, and business funding and incentives. Our office includes the Global Business Development division; Colorado Tourism Office; Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office; Colorado Creative Industries; Business Financing & Incentives division; the Colorado Small Business Development Network; Cannabis Business Office; Colorado Office of Film, TV & Media; the Minority Business Office; Employee Ownership Office; and Rural Opportunity Office. Learn more at oedit.colorado.gov

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Role in International Money Laundering Conspiracy

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    BOSTON – A New York man pleaded guilty yesterday to his involvement in a sophisticated international money laundering and drug trafficking organization.

    Yanbing Chen, 30, of Brooklyn, N.Y., pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for Jan. 21, 2025.

    In May 2023, a federal grand jury in Boston returned a superseding indictment charging 12 individuals from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York and California for their alleged involvement in a sophisticated international money laundering and drug trafficking organization. Jin Hua Zhang, based in Staten Island, was identified as the leader of the organization along with a number of his criminal associates. The investigation revealed that, for a fee, Zhang laundered bulk cash for drug dealers and laundered profits from other illegal businesses. In less than one year, Zhang and his organization laundered at least $25 million worth of drug proceeds and funds from other illegal businesses through undercover agents.

    In July 2022, on Zhang’s behalf, Chen delivered $50,000 in drug funds to undercover agents to be laundered. Those funds were converted to Tether, a type of cryptocurrency, and transferred to Zhang, the organization’s leader, minus a fee. Funds were eventually traced from the Zhang organization to Hong Kong and elsewhere in China, India, Cambodia and Brazil, among other locations. Cash and cryptocurrency in accounts tied to Zhang were seized at the conclusion of the investigation.

    In addition, in two separate meetings in August and September 2022, Zhang sent Chen to meet with cooperating witnesses near South Station in Boston. Chen was recorded by the undercover agents as he delivered a total of five kilograms of cocaine at Zhang’s direction.

    Zhang pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 15, 2024.

    The charge of money laundering conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $500,000, or twice the amount involved, whichever is greater. The charge of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms of cocaine calls for a sentence of up to life in prison, a minimum of five years of supervised release, and a $10 million fine. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was also provided by the Quincy Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl, Brian A. Fogerty and Meghan C. Cleary of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters, Stabenow Introduce Legislation to Grant Federal Recognition to the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) introduced legislation that seeks to grant federal recognition to the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians (GRB). In addition to granting federal recognition to the GRB, the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act would make its members eligible for benefits and services provided by the federal government, including tuition, health care, and housing assistance. U.S. Representative Scholten (D-MI-03) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. 

    The GRB is a native sovereign nation with agreements with the federal government dating back to 1795. The GRB originally included 19 bands of Ottawa people who lived along the Grand River and other waterways in southwest Michigan. Today, most of the GRB’s membership resides in Kent, Muskegon, and Oceana counties. 

    “For decades, the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians has been working to gain federal Tribal recognition,” said Senator Peters. “This bill would finally give them the recognition they deserve, bringing federal resources to its members and protecting their Tribal lands for future generations.”  

    “The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians have deep roots in Michigan going back generations,” said Senator Stabenow. “The tribe is recognized by the State of Michigan, but not by the Department of Interior.  This legislation would finally grant federal recognition to this tribe.”

    “On behalf of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians, I thank Sen. Peters and the delegation members who introduced and co-sponsored this bill. After decades of delays, this bill brings renewed hope that our Tribe will achieve federal recognition and our members will gain access to the resources they deserve, including critical funding for social services, education, housing, elder care, exercising our treaty rights and weighing in on federal legislation that impacts tribes. We are grateful to Sen. Peters for his leadership and dedication to justice for the Grand River Bands,” said Ron Yob, Chairman of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians.  

    This legislation is supported by community partners and local government leaders including the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds; the West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters and Service Trades; and other key stakeholders throughout Michigan. Rep. Scholten’s House companion legislation is supported by Reps. John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Dan Kildee (D-MI-08), Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Lisa McClain (R-MI-09), Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI-07), and John James (R-MI-10).  

    Peters and Stabenow have previously led efforts to support Tribal communities across Michigan. In August, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee advanced legislation authored by Peters that would require the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) to accept requests from Tribal governments to receive Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) Declarations. Last year, the Senate unanimously passed legislation introduced by Peters and Stabenow to settle the longstanding land claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and clear the title of current landowners in the community. The bill authorizes federal funds through the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) that may be used by the KBIC for governmental services, economic development, natural resource protection, and land acquisition. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Ferguson files lawsuit against TikTok for harming youth mental health

    Source: Washington State News

    Social media giant accused of designing app to be addictive to young users

    SEATTLE — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today that he is suing TikTok for putting profits before the well-being of millions of its most vulnerable users by creating a platform that is addictive to youth. Ferguson’s lawsuit is part of a nationwide bipartisan effort, with 13 other attorneys general filing their own similar lawsuits.

    Specifically, Ferguson’s lawsuit filed in King County Superior Court accuses TikTok of violating the state Consumer Protection Act by targeting youth with features that encourage compulsive and excessive use to get them hooked on the platform. It asserts the social media giant deployed misleading public statements about TikTok’s safety and content moderation practices despite internal research showing the risks to young users.

    A significant portion of the complaint relies on material that TikTok asserts is confidential and has not yet been disclosed. Ferguson is requesting the court unseal that information.

    Research shows that excessive social media use by children and adolescents correlates with increased poor mental health outcomes. That’s especially true for young girls.

    Ferguson asserts that TikTok’s protections for young users are inadequate, despite its public claims of providing a safe, well-moderated experience for them.

    “I am one of the millions of parents across Washington who knows firsthand the hold TikTok and other social media apps have on kids,” Ferguson said. “TikTok is deceiving young people and their parents when it claims to look out for the safety of young users. Platforms like TikTok must be reformed and we know they are unwilling to do so on their own. I will not stop fighting to protect our kids and their mental health.”

    The latest lawsuit against TikTok comes nearly a year after Ferguson filed another, similar lawsuit against Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, along with a bipartisan group of attorneys general. The federal lawsuit accuses Meta of intentionally targeting youth with harmful features designed to get them hooked for life all while publicly downplaying the risks to maximize profits. 

    Like Meta, TikTok’s business model relies on maximizing user engagement. To keep young users coming back to the platform, TikTok designs its algorithms to figure out what types of videos they like and push more of those types of videos to them. TikTok’s “infinite scroll” and autoplay features increase the likelihood that users will stay on the app for an excessive amount of time, which is harmful to youth.

    In short, TikTok intentionally targets youth to keep them on the platform as long as possible without regard for their safety. At the same time, TikTok downplays the risks for its young users. These tactics contradict the company’s public-facing claims that it puts user safety first.

    TikTok intentionally created an addictive platform

    TikTok — one of the most widely used social media apps among teens — created a platform that is addictive to youth. At the same time, TikTok misrepresents to parents and kids that its platform has sufficient safeguards to protect them when it does not.

    TikTok employs an arsenal of harmful, addictive-by-design features specifically targeted and tailored to exploiting, manipulating and capitalizing on young users’ still developing brains, the lawsuit asserts.

    One of those features is “endless” or “infinite” scrolling. Endless scrolling compels young users to spend more time on TikTok by making it difficult for them to disengage, stripping away any natural stopping point or opportunity to turn to a new activity. TikTok claims that its screen time limit for teens mitigates the effects of features like endless scroll, but the limit is not a hard stop. Teens can click through TikTok’s take-a-break reminders and even disable them entirely.

    TikTok also employs push notifications to prolong the time youth spend on the app. The notifications create a sense that youth are missing out on new activity on TikTok.

    TikTok allowed under-13 users to bypass age gate

    Starting in 2019, TikTok split its platform into two levels, a “Kids Mode” and a “full” experience. “Kids Mode” restricts content young users can access, and bars them from uploading content. They also have no access to direct messages and cannot comment on other posts, in addition to other restrictions.

    TikTok uses “age gating” — or screening a user based on their birth date — to prevent underage users from accessing the platform’s full experience.

    However, TikTok knows that many children bypass the age gate, if it’s used at all. TikTok’s age gate depends on children reporting their age. While the age gate may sometimes effectively filter some users under age 13 into “Kids Mode,” TikTok knows that under-13 users are incentivized to and routinely supply a false date of birth to access the full TikTok experience.

    The Pew Research Center reported last year that 63% of all Americans age 13 to 17 used TikTok, and most teenagers in the U.S. report using TikTok daily. According to the research, 17% of teens say that they are on TikTok “almost constantly.”

    In 2020, The New York Times reported that more than one-third of TikTok’s 49 million daily users in the United States were 14 or younger.

    Investigation background

    This lawsuit is the result of a bipartisan, nationwide investigation by state attorneys general that began in 2021. Ferguson joined a bipartisan multistate lawsuit against Meta last year that came out of the same investigation.

    Other attorneys general filing their own individual lawsuits this week include: California, New York, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oregon, South Carolina, Vermont and the District of Columbia. Eight other states filed individual lawsuits earlier in the investigation. Those include: Arkansas, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Nevada, New Hampshire, Nebraska and Utah. 

    The attorneys general are seeking to stop TikTok’s unlawful practices and to force TikTok to implement reforms. Those reforms include strengthening its screen time limiting features for youth, eliminating or placing limits on endless scrolling and improving its “age gating,” or age verification, practices.

    Ferguson is also seeking civil penalties of up to $12,500 per violation, after enhancements, under the Washington Consumer Protection Act.

    Assistant Attorneys General Joe Kanada, Kelsey Burazin, Daniel Allen and Will O’Connor, Paralegals Allison Cleveland, Matt Hehemann, Keri Snider, Jen Killoren and Anne Wallig are handling the case for Washington.

    Social media impacts on youth mental health

    Experts, including the U.S. Surgeon General, agree that excessive social media use by children and adolescents correlates with physical and psychological harms such as higher rates of depression, anxiety and attention deficit disorders. It can also lead to eating disorders, suicidal thoughts and body dysmorphia.

    Social media use can disrupt activities that are essential for health, like sleep and physical activity, depending on the amount of time children spend online.

    According to the Surgeon General, recent research shows that adolescents who spend more than three hours per day on social media face double the risk of experiencing poor mental health outcomes, such as symptoms of depression and anxiety.

    Social media may perpetuate body dissatisfaction, disordered eating behaviors, social comparison and low self-esteem, especially among adolescent girls. One-third or more of girls aged 11-15 say they feel “addicted” to certain social media platforms and over half of teenagers report that it would be hard to give up social media.

    Ferguson’s lawsuit against Meta

    In October 2023, Ferguson and a bipartisan coalition of 42 attorneys general  filed lawsuits accusing Meta, the parent company of the social media platforms Facebook and Instagram, of knowingly targeting youth — calling them a “valuable, but untapped” market — with harmful features designed to get them hooked for life to maximize profits.

    The federal lawsuit also alleges that Meta knew young users, including those under 13, were active on the platforms and knowingly collected data from those users without parental consent.   

    The states’ case against Meta is currently being litigated in the Northern District of California.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit http://www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Brionna Aho, Communications Director, (360) 753-2727; Brionna.aho@atg.wa.gov

    General contacts: Click here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: 4 foundational ways that AI is transforming government

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: 4 foundational ways that AI is transforming government

    Of the many ways you might measure the potential value of AI on governments, one statistic jumps out. According to Gartner®, 2027 spend on AI software by use case, digital government services, is projected to reach USD41.8 billion in 2027. That tops all other industry sectors, with banking coming in second at USD28.2 billion.1 This represents a significant shift in priorities, as governments recognize the potential of AI to enhance public sector efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement.

    As Microsoft’s global government lead, I am inspired that so many agencies and organizations are not hedging their bets with AI, as was sometimes the case with prior waves (cloud computing and the rise of mobility come to mind). Instead, many governments are taking thoughtful early steps to explore AI and invest in early innovation.

    Microsoft for Government

    Achieve your mission with Microsoft.

    How AI is transforming government IT

    At Microsoft for Government, our job is to help governments make the most of their AI investments with best-in-class solutions that are tailored to their unique needs and brought to life through our global network of technology partners. Since the advent of generative AI in late 2022, we have worked closely with a wide array of agencies and organizations to develop targeted use cases designed to improve everything from citizen services to cybersecurity.

    This level of innovation is even more impressive considering the unique pressures facing governments. Leaders must deliver results within constrained budgets and limited resources, respond to shifts in societies and workforces, and protect some of the most heavily cyber-attacked data and systems in the world.

    Here’s a brief look at four essential areas where AI is helping to empower customers and reshape the impact of government around the world.

    1. Delivering personalized experiences

    Unproductive interactions with automated call centers and outdated websites are the bane of many constituents’ relationships with their government agencies. Well-intended at the core, too many of these services fail to connect with constituents, recognize their needs, and deliver useful information in a timely way.

    Generative AI is revolutionizing these resources with self-service portals and contact centers that provide modern, user-friendly digital experiences. The combination of natural language processing (which enables machines to understand and generate human language), and semantic search (which goes beyond simple keyword matching to comprehend the meaning of a query) makes it possible to readily create chatbots and agents that interact smoothly with people and reason over vast amounts of data to instantly provide solutions.

    An amazing example is a chatbot in India called Jugalbandi, built on Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service. Jugalbandi has bridged the nation’s vast linguistic divide by understanding spoken and typed questions, then responding in the user’s local language, all on widely used mobile devices. By covering 10 of India’s 22 official languages and 171 government programs (so far), it makes important information more accessible and reduces cost and friction for constituents and employees alike.

    2. Empowering the government workforce

    Ensuring that employees can focus on meaningful work is key to government success. In public service, many people are motivated by the opportunity to help others and solve important societal challenges. When subpar technology solutions create inefficiencies and cause unintended problems, productivity and morale suffer.

    Government workers, like employees everywhere, welcome services and solutions that reduce friction, keep them connected, and make them more productive. Solutions that use generative AI’s unique predictive analytics and forecasting capabilities can help employees improve their decision-making and overall efficiency.

    In the United Arab Emirates, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) DWEA) built a new Business Requirement Document Generator using Microsoft Azure AI Services that enables employees to enter minimal information and easily generate important documents. Trained on 500 billion parameters, it proactively suggests required information and fills in gaps and other important information. What used to take one week can now be done in one day, including reviews. Complementing the solution, the Authority also boosted productivity by adopting Microsoft 365 Copilot, which is proving invaluable in helping employees to work faster and effectively, notably on research tasks.

    3. Modernizing government operations

    In many organizations and agencies, the journey to cloud computing has been hindered by important considerations unique to government, including cost, security, and a reliance on legacy systems which are often regarded as so critical that they can’t be modernized, despite being slow, complex, and vulnerable. As cloud and AI solutions become more mature and available, however, the barriers to modernization are dropping, while the price of inaction only rises.

    Generative AI’s code generation capabilities (which empower non-developers to readily create AI applications) make it possible to manage critical workloads in the cloud, while gaining new benefits in flexibility, scalability, and resilience across agencies. This can unlock critical data stuck in silos and drive better decision-making for officials who, for example, can make more informed decisions on proposed legislation. Likewise, for citizens, it can turn the process of obtaining a building permit into a productive interaction with a helpful virtual agent, rather than a gauntlet of arcane rules and regulatory snags.

    When Gamle Oslo realized that a district manager needed to log into 25 different systems to find relevant data for the city’s kindergarten services, they decided to build a unified data platform using Microsoft Fabric. The solution collects and analyzes all of the district’s data on housing, employment, health care, and public services, which had formerly been disconnected. Unified data with Fabric has improved many processes and opened the door to new benefits and insights, including setting the stage for new AI innovation.

    4. Securing data and protecting resources

    More than any other industry sector, governments are prime targets for cyberattacks. According to Microsoft’s Digital Defense Report for 2023, 53% of attacks worldwide focused on government organizations and critical infrastructure2. Over the last 18 months, public sector organizations have seen a 150% increase in cyberattacks3 due to the combination of escalating geo-political conflicts and increasing financial motivations.

    This dangerous threat landscape urgently requires governments to improve their ability to safeguard critical systems, enhance data protection, and maintain compliance with a host of regulations. Making the challenge even more difficult for governments is the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity staff. Worldwide, there is a shortage of 4 million cybersecurity professionals4, and the problem can be worse for governments, who often struggle to attract and retain talent.

    Cloud and AI technology can help level the cybersecurity playing field in a number of important ways. First, the Microsoft Cloud platform provides built-in security and resilience, reflecting our commitment to making security and compliance our top priority. Also, our comprehensive security offerings help an organization craft its own strategy using end-to-end products and tools. And finally, Microsoft Copilot for Security uses generative AI to empower security analysts to rapidly assess an organization’s security posture and create actionable insights and solutions at much greater speed than current approaches.

    When the Dominican Republic’s National Cybersecurity Center (CNCS) recognized increases in both frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, they responded by modernizing the government’s information system and in national critical infrastructure. Their comprehensive approach included adopting a variety of Microsoft solutions to monitor, analyze, manage, and respond to cyber threat cases across the country. The benefits of modern cybersecurity were soon evident, as the event correlation system running on Microsoft Sentinel established relationships between indicators of compromise four times faster than earlier approaches.

    See AI in government for yourself

    Beyond these transformational benefits, the explosion of AI innovation in government is also advancing the move to modern cloud and data platforms, which is not only essential for enabling AI but also delivers broader benefits in efficiency, productivity, and security.

    The insights and examples shared here only just scratch the surface of what our customers are creating and learning. We’re discovering new and amazing things on a daily basis, and we invite you to become engaged.

    To see for yourself and learn more:

    • Attend the Microsoft AI Tour—a free, one-day event with experts, industry leaders, and peers to explore how AI can drive growth and create lasting value. Events are happening worldwide through March 2025.
    • Visit us at Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, November 5–7, 2024. I will present on the topic of “Next-Gen Tech Leading the New Urban Era​,” and other Microsoft for Government sessions will be presented by Kathleen Mitford, Kirk Arthur, Jeremy Goldberg, Doug Priest, and Hannah Prior.
    • To discover how the city of Madrid is innovating to become a smarter, more sustainable city, download the new SmartCitiesWorld City Profile. And for a discussion of the new profile, including a new AI-driven virtual assistant, register for a SmartCitiesWorld webinar on October 22, 2024.

    Sources:

    1Gartner, Compare AI Software Spending in the Government Industry, 2023-2027, By Daniel Snyder, James Ingham, Inna Agamirzian, 27 March 2024. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

    2Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2023

    3Statista, December 2023

    4ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study, November, 2023

    Didier Ongena

    Global Government Lead, Microsoft

    Didier Ongena leads Microsoft’s Worldwide Public Sector Government team, focused on helping customers realize transformational impact through technology. He and his team help customers address global challenges such as sustainability, mobility, the energy crisis, healthcare, education, and more. They are eager to add value to government agencies worldwide.

    See more articles from this author

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israeli forces are pushing people from north to south Gaza Palestine

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    • In northern Gaza, Palestine, Israeli evacuation orders and strikes are forcing people to flee south.
    • The bombing and evacuations of neighbourhoods in the north are making the area unliveable, with no supplies entering the area for a week.
    • We call on Israel to stop issuing evacuation orders and immediately allow in humanitarian aid.

    Israeli evacuation orders for parts of northern Gaza, Palestine, issued on 7 October, are pushing tens of thousands of people to immediately flee south as the area is targeted by airstrikes and a ground offensive. In this latest forced mass displacement, residents of Beit Hanoun, Jabalia and Beit Lahia have been urged to move south to the overcrowded, so-called humanitarian zone between Al-Mawasi and Deir Al-Balah, where one million people are already living in inhumane conditions. The zone also remains unsafe for civilians and aid workers, as Israeli forces continue to repeatedly strike the area.

    These forced mass evacuations of homes and bombing of neighbourhoods by the Israeli forces are turning the north of Gaza into an unliveable wasteland, effectively emptying out the whole north of the Strip of Palestinian life. To make matters worse, no humanitarian supplies have been allowed to enter the area since 1 October.

    Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) calls on the Israeli forces to halt evacuation orders, which are causing the forced displacement of people, and to ensure the protection of civilians. They must also allow desperately needed humanitarian supplies to enter the north as a matter of extreme urgency.

    “All of a sudden, I was told that we had to move from the north,” says Mahmoud, an MSF watchman, who left Jabalia at night to find refuge at the MSF guest house in Gaza City. “We left our home in despair, under bombs, missiles and artillery. It was very, very difficult. I would prefer to die than to be displaced to the south; my home is here, and I do not want to leave.”

    Israeli forces also called for the evacuation of the three main hospitals in northern Gaza, namely Indonesian, Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda hospitals. These are operating at minimal capacity and have a total of 317 patients still hospitalised, with around 80 people in intensive care and unable to move, according to the Ministry of Health. These three medical facilities, as well as those that remain partially functional across the Strip, must be protected at all costs.  

    The MSF clinic in Gaza City received 255 patients on Sunday and Monday alone, as options for people to access medical care shrink by the day. For some people, accessing the few existing health facilities is impossible; our teams have received reports of wounded people who have died as they were unable to seek medical care.

    Among those facing evacuation orders in the north are seven MSF staff who managed to find shelter in Gaza City. Five others remain blocked in Jabalia, where the Israeli forces are on the ground carrying out attacks.

    “The latest move to forcefully and violently push thousands of people from northern Gaza to the south is turning the north into a lifeless desert, while aggravating the situation in the south, where more than one million people have already been squeezed into a small portion of the Gaza Strip and live in deplorable conditions,” says Sarah Vuylsteke, MSF project coordinator in Gaza.

    “Access to water, healthcare, and safety is already almost non-existent, and the thought of more people fitting into this space is impossible to imagine,” says Vuylsteke. “People have been subjected to endless displacement and relentless bombing for the past 12 months. Enough is enough, this must stop now.”

    While the Israeli authorities have recently declared a minimal expansion of the so-called humanitarian zone, the area remains subject to evacuation orders and is unsafe due to regular Israeli bombardment. Many people living in the zone are suffering from skin diseases and respiratory infections because of the dire conditions. The situation is even more worrying with the approach of winter and the cold temperatures that people will be exposed to.

    Israeli forces must urgently halt evacuation orders in the north of Gaza. The relentless killing of people in Gaza must stop now, and an immediate and sustained ceasefire must be implemented.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wakpala Woman Sentenced for Child Abuse

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    ABERDEEN – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Wakpala, South Dakota, woman convicted of Child Abuse. The sentencing took place on September 30, 2024.

    Sheyenne Cadotte, 28, was sentenced to three years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. One of her conditions of supervised release prohibits Cadotte from living with children or contacting her own children unless approved in writing by her probation officer.

    Cadotte was indicted for Child Abuse by a federal grand jury in June of 2022. She pleaded guilty on May 16, 2024.

    In 2021, Cadotte lived with her four-year-old daughter in Kenel, South Dakota, which lies within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. Cadotte’s daughter is a profoundly delayed non-verbal child who requires a feeding tube for sustenance. During the summer and fall of 2021, Cadotte starved her daughter, routinely skipping scheduled feedings and swapping whole milk for formula. Due to this neglect, the girl’s weight dropped from 34 pounds in May to 25 pounds in December, when she was removed from Cadotte’s care. The child is currently thriving in an institutional setting.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain serious crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs- Office of Justice Services and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.

    Cadotte was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: McLaughlin Man Sentenced for Voluntary Manslaughter

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    ABERDEEN – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter. The sentencing took place on September 30, 2024.

    Johnathan Guggolz, 48, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Guggolz was indicted by a federal grand jury in October of 2023. He pleaded guilty on July 8, 2024.

    On the afternoon of August 29, 2023, in McLaughlin, South Dakota, within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation, a 62-year-old man pulled into the school driveway to pick his wife up from work. Guggolz pulled up next to the man and confronted him about his driving, mocking and belittling him. The man eventually exited his car, secured a pair of duct-taped homemade nunchucks to protect himself, and squared up with Guggolz, a former amateur boxer. After a few moments of posturing, the man thrust the nunchucks towards Guggolz’ hip. Guggolz then punched the man in the face, knocking him unconscious. The man fell backwards and struck his head on the concrete. Guggolz glanced down at the man, now lying helpless on the driveway, then returned to his pickup and drove away. The man subsequently died of a traumatic brain injury incurred in the assault.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, and the Mobridge Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.

    Guggolz was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Drug Distribution and Firearm Possession on Menominee Indian Reservation Leads to Eight-Year Prison Sentence for Former Keshena Man

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on October 4, 2024, Anthony Brown, Jr. (age: 50), a former resident of Keshena on the Menominee Indian Reservation, received an eight-year federal prison sentence following convictions for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.  Brown will also face five years of supervised release once he completes his sentence.  The sentence, imposed by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach, was the result of a guilty plea entered by the defendant on June 14, 2024.

    According to court records, during the early morning hours of January 1, 2024, investigators with the Menominee Tribal Police Department observed the defendant in his vehicle as he engaged in a hand-to-hand drug transaction in the parking lot of a business on the Menominee Indian Reservation. After a brief interaction, the defendant was arrested and searched.  Law enforcement recovered over 15 grams of cocaine and approximately $4400 in U.S. currency from his person and recovered a loaded .380 caliber semiautomatic handgun from the vehicle.  The firearm had the defendant’s DNA on it.

    Also, according to court records, law enforcement had an additional contact with Brown on January 15, 2024. Brown was arrested after being found passed out at the wheel of a car stopped in Keshena. Brown had cocaine on his person. Officers applied for and obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s residence, which led to the discovery of 380 grams of cocaine, paraphernalia associated with drug use and packaging, ammunition, a ledger containing names, amounts, and prices, and a Glock 21 .45 caliber handgun.

    Investigators seized numerous items which the defendant agreed were proceeds or facilities of illegal drug activity, including $7000 in cash, a 2016 Chevrolet Corvette, a 1999 Porsche Boxster, a 2019 Ford F250 pickup, a 2014 Jeep Wrangler, and a 2017 Kawasaki sport bike style motorcycle. Investigators also seized 216 pairs of luxury shoes. These items were ordered forfeited as part of his sentence.

    During the sentencing hearing, Judge Griesbach noted the seriousness of the crime and the need to deter those who might consider similar actions to protect the community from the destructive effects of controlled substance abuse. Judge Griesbach also observed the need to incapacitate the defendant for a lengthy period, particularly considering Brown’s previous convictions for drug dealing.

    The Menomonee Tribal Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations investigated the case as part of the Safe Trails Task Force (STTF) and the Native American Drug and Gang Initiative (NADGI). NADGI and STTF partner federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and violent crime on the Menominee Indian Reservation. STTF members are deputized federal officers who identify and target for prosecution individuals who are involved in distribution of dangerous drugs on the Menominee Indian Reservation. Coordination of state resources through NADGI permits efficient communication and evidence processing, which are essential to swift and fair prosecution of offenders. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecuted the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rapid City Man Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter. The sentencing took place on October 2, 2024.

    Lionel Morrison, age 53, was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Morrison was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in July of 2023. He pleaded guilty on June 7, 2024.

    In May of 2023, Morrison, who was intoxicated, was driving a vehicle just north of Pine Ridge when he lost control of the vehicle. After losing control of the vehicle, Morrison overcorrected the path of the vehicle causing it to roll three times causing the front passenger to be ejected from the vehicle. The victim ultimately succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe – Department of Public Safety and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Unprecedented peril: disaster lies ahead as we track towards 2.7°C of warming this century

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Newsome, Associate Professor in Global Ecology, University of Sydney

    You don’t have to look far to see what climate change is doing to the planet. The word “unprecedented” is everywhere this year.

    We are seeing unprecedented rapidly intensifying tropical storms such as Hurricane Helene in the eastern United States and Super Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam. Unprecedented fires in Canada have destroyed towns. Unprecedented drought in Brazil has dried out enormous rivers and left swathes of empty river beds. At least 1,300 pilgrims died during this year’s Hajj in Mecca as temperatures passed 50°C.

    Unfortunately, we are headed for far worse. The new 2024 State of the Climate report, produced by our team of international scientists, is yet another stark warning about the intensifying climate crisis. Even if governments meet their emissions goals, the world may hit 2.7°C of warming – nearly double the Paris Agreement goal of holding climate change to 1.5°C. Each year, we track 35 of the Earth’s vital signs, from sea ice extent to forests. This year, 25 are now at record levels, all trending in the wrong directions.

    Humans are not used to these conditions. Human civilisation emerged over the last 10,000 years under benign conditions – not too hot, not too cold. But this liveable climate is now at risk. In your grandchild’s lifetime, climatic conditions will be more threatening than anything our prehistoric relatives would have faced.

    Our report shows a continued rise in fossil fuel emissions, which remain at an all-time high. Despite years of warnings from scientists, fossil fuel consumption has actually increased, pushing the planet toward dangerous levels of warming. While wind and solar have grown rapidly, fossil fuel use is 14 times greater.

    This year is also tracking for the hottest year on record, with global daily mean temperatures at record levels for nearly half of 2023 and much of 2024.

    Next month, world leaders and diplomats will gather in Azerbaijan for the annual United Nations climate talks, COP 29. Leaders will have to redouble their efforts. Without much stronger policies, climate change will keep worsening, bringing with it more frequent and more extreme weather.

    Bad news after bad news

    We have still not solved the central problem: the routine burning of fossil fuels. Atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases – particularly methane and carbon dioxide – are still rising. Last September, carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere hit 418 parts per million (ppm). This September, they crossed 422 ppm. Methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas, has been increasing at an alarming rate despite global pledges to tackle it.

    Compounding the problem is the recent decline in atmospheric aerosols from efforts to cut pollution. These small particles suspended in the air come from both natural and human processes, and have helped cool the planet. Without this cooling effect, the pace of global warming may accelerate. We don’t know for sure because aerosol properties are not yet measured well enough.

    Other environmental issues are now feeding into climate change. Deforestation in critical areas such as the Amazon is reducing the planet’s capacity to absorb carbon naturally, driving additional warming. This creates a feedback loop, where warming causes trees to die which in turn amplifies global temperatures.

    Loss of sea ice is another. As sea ice melts or fails to form, dark seawater is exposed. Ice reflects sunlight but seawater absorbs it. Scaled up, this changes the Earth’s albedo (how reflective the surface is) and accelerates warming further.

    In coming decades, sea level rise will pose a growing threat to coastal communities, putting millions of people at risk of displacement.

    Accelerate the solutions

    Our report stresses the need for an immediate and comprehensive end to the routine use of fossil fuels.

    It calls for a global carbon price, set high enough to drive down emissions, particularly from high-emitting wealthy countries.

    Introducing effective policies to slash methane emissions is crucial, given methane’s high potency but short atmospheric lifetime. Rapidly cutting methane could slow the rate of warming in the short term.

    Natural climate solutions such as reforestation and soil restoration should be rolled out to increase how much carbon is stored in wood and soil. These efforts must be accompanied by protective measures in wildfire and drought prone areas. There’s no point planting forests if they will burn.

    Governments should introduce stricter land-use policies to slow down rates of land clearing and increase investment in forest management to cut the risk of large, devastating fires and encourage sustainable land use.

    We cannot overlook climate justice. Less wealthy nations contribute least to global emissions but are often the worst affected by climate disasters.

    Wealthier nations must provide financial and technical support to help these countries adapt to climate change while cutting emissions. This could include investing in renewable energy, improving infrastructure and funding disaster preparedness programs.

    Internationally, our report urges stronger commitments from world leaders. Current global policies are insufficient to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

    Without drastic changes, the world is on track for approximately 2.7°C of warming this century. To avoid catastrophic tipping points, nations must strengthen their climate pledges, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and accelerate the transition to renewable energy.

    Immediate, transformative policy changes are now necessary if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

    Climate change is already here. But it could get much, much worse. By slashing emissions, boosting natural climate solutions and working towards climate justice, the global community can still fend off the worst version of our future.

    Thomas Newsome receives funding from the Australian Research Council. He is immediate past-president of the Australasian Wildlife Management Society and President of the Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales.

    William Ripple receives funding from the CO2 Foundation and University of Oregon donor Roger Worthington.

    – ref. Unprecedented peril: disaster lies ahead as we track towards 2.7°C of warming this century – https://theconversation.com/unprecedented-peril-disaster-lies-ahead-as-we-track-towards-2-7-c-of-warming-this-century-240549

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Molinaro To Host Third Pinning Ceremony In Sullivan County For Vietnam War Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19)

    Liberty, NY – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (NY-19) today announced he will host another pinning ceremony for Vietnam War veterans on Tuesday, October 15 from 3pm to 4pm in Sullivan County. Rep. Molinaro held pinning ceremonies in Greene County and Broome County in August. 

    Rep. Molinaro will present veterans with a pin recognizing their service. This event is open to all Vietnam War veterans, their families, and anyone who would like to pay respect to our veterans. In order to be recognized for your service, veterans must RSVP here or call Rep. Molinaro’s Leeds Office at (518) 625-2100 to sign up.

    Rep. Molinaro said, “After two successful pinning ceremonies, I’m honored to be hosting another ceremony to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of our Vietnam War veterans. When these soldiers returned home, many were met with animosity and protests, so I’m glad to hold a service and thank these courageous vets for their service to our country.” 

    Details for the event can be found below:

    Date: Tuesday, October 15

    Time: 3:00pm-4:00pm

    Location:

    Sullivan County Government Center Front Lobby

    100 North Street

    Monticello, NY 12701

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: AI is a multi-billion dollar industry. It’s underpinned by an invisible and exploited workforce

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ganna Pogrebna, Executive Director, AI and Cyber Futures Institute, Charles Sturt University

    Olena Yakobchuk/Shutterstock

    In dusty factories, cramped internet cafes and makeshift home offices around the world, millions of people sit at computers tediously labelling data.

    These workers are the lifeblood of the burgeoning artificial intelligence (AI) industry. Without them, products such as ChatGPT simply would not exist. That’s because the data they label helps AI systems “learn”.

    But despite the vital contribution this workforce makes to an industry which is expected to be worth US$407 billion by 2027, the people who comprise it are largely invisible and frequently exploited. Earlier this year nearly 100 data labellers and AI workers from Kenya who do work for companies like Facebook, Scale AI and OpenAI published an open letter to United States President Joe Biden in which they said:

    Our working conditions amount to modern day slavery.

    To ensure AI supply chains are ethical, industry and governments must urgently address this problem. But the key question is: how?

    What is data labelling?

    Data labelling is the process of annotating raw data — such as images, video or text — so that AI systems can recognise patterns and make predictions.

    Self-driving cars, for example, rely on labelled video footage to distinguish pedestrians from road signs. Large language models such as ChatGPT rely on labelled text to understand human language.

    These labelled datasets are the lifeblood of AI models. Without them, AI systems would be unable to function effectively.

    Tech giants like Meta, Google, OpenAI and Microsoft outsource much of this work to data labelling factories in countries such as the Philippines, Kenya, India, Pakistan, Venezuela and Colombia.

    China is also becoming another global hub for data labelling.

    Outsourcing companies that facilitate this work include Scale AI, iMerit, and Samasource. These are very large companies in their own right. For example, Scale AI, which is headquartered in California, is now worth US$14 billion.

    Cutting corners

    Major tech firms like Alphabet (the parent company of Google), Amazon, Microsoft, Nvidia and Meta have poured billions into AI infrastructure, from computational power and data storage to emerging computational technologies.

    Large-scale AI models can cost tens of millions of dollars to train. Once deployed, maintaining these models requires continuous investment in data labelling, refinement and real-world testing.

    But while AI investment is significant, revenues have not always met expectations. Many industries continue to view AI projects as experimental with unclear profitability paths.

    In response, many companies are cutting costs which affect those at the very bottom of the AI supply chain who are often highly vulnerable: data labellers.

    Low wages, dangerous working conditions

    One way companies involved in the AI supply chain try to reduce costs is by employing large numbers of data labellers in countries in the Global South such as the Philippines, Venezuela, Kenya and India. Workers in these countries face stagnating or shrinking wages.

    For example, an hourly rate for AI data labellers in Venezuela ranges from between 90 cents and US$2. In comparison, in the United States, this rate is between US$10 to US$25 per hour.

    In the Philippines, workers labelling data for multi-billion dollar companies such as Scale AI often earn far below the minimum wage.

    Some labelling providers even resort to child labour for labelling purposes.

    But there are many other labour issues within the AI supply chain.

    Many data labellers work in overcrowded and dusty environments which pose a serious risk to their health. They also often work as independent contractors, lacking access to protections such as health care or compensation.

    The mental toll of data labelling work is also significant, with repetitive tasks, strict deadlines and rigid quality controls. Data labellers are also sometimes asked to read and label hate speech or other abusive language or material, which has been proven to have negative psychological effects.

    Errors can lead to pay cuts or job losses. But labellers often experience lack of transparency on how their work is evaluated. They are often denied access to performance data, hindering their ability to improve or contest decisions.

    Making AI supply chains ethical

    As AI development becomes more complex and companies strive to maximise profits, the need for ethical AI supply chains is urgent.

    One way companies can help ensure this is by applying a human right-centreed design, deliberation and oversight approach to the entire AI supply chain. They must adopt fair wage policies, ensuring data labellers receive living wages that reflect the value of their contributions.

    By embedding human rights into the supply chain, AI companies can foster a more ethical, sustainable industry, ensuring that both workers’ rights and corporate responsibility align with long-term success.

    Governments should also create new regulation which mandates these practices, encouraging fairness and transparency. This includes transparency in performance evaluation and personal data processing, allowing workers to understand how they are assessed and to contest any inaccuracies.

    Clear payment systems and recourse mechanisms will ensure workers are treated fairly. Instead of busting unions, as Scale AI did in Kenya in 2024, companies should also support the formation of digital labour unions or cooperatives. This will give workers a voice to advocate for better working conditions.

    As users of AI products, we all can advocate for ethical practices by supporting companies that are transparent about their AI supply chains and commit to fair treatment of workers. Just as we reward green and fair trade producers of physical goods, we can push for change by choosing digital services or apps on our smartphones that adhere to human rights standards, promoting ethical brands through social media, and voting with our dollars for accountability from tech giants on a daily basis.

    By making informed choices, we all can contribute to more ethical practices across the AI industry.

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

    – ref. AI is a multi-billion dollar industry. It’s underpinned by an invisible and exploited workforce – https://theconversation.com/ai-is-a-multi-billion-dollar-industry-its-underpinned-by-an-invisible-and-exploited-workforce-240568

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: WTO Chairs Programme expands academic network to under-represented regions

    Source: World Trade Organization

    Following the addition of these five universities, the programme’s network will comprise a total of 40 Chairs. This expansion is anticipated to strengthen the impact of regional and global initiatives within the network and to promote deeper collaboration and knowledge sharing among academics, policymakers and trade experts.

    The five selected institutions will join the programme’s next four-year cycle, which is slated to begin in 2025. They will contribute to the programme’s research, curriculum development and outreach and will benefit from mentoring provided by other Chairs to ease their integration into the network. They will also engage in collaborative events, conferences and seminars to extend the academic and practical impact of their work on trade policies at the national and international levels.

    The fourth cycle of the WTO Chairs Programme also marks a transition to a more frequent admission of institutions into the network to further the global reach and impact of the programme. Greater synergies with the WTO’s other technical assistance activities are also anticipated.

    This expansion builds on the WTO’s longstanding efforts to ensure that academic institutions play a crucial role in shaping trade policy and deepening the understanding of the multilateral trading system. Funded by France, Austria, the Republic of Korea and Australia, the WTO Chairs Programme has grown from strength to strength as it seeks to address current and emerging global trade challenges.

    The selection of universities follows a rigorous review process of applications led by the WTO Chairs Programme Academic Advisory Board.

    More information about the Chairs Programme is available here.

    Selected institutions

    Member

    Academic Institution

    Dominican Republic

    Universidad Iberoamericana

    Nigeria

    Nnamdi Azikiwe University

    Qatar

    Hamad Bin Khalifa University

    Togo

    Université de Lomé

    Vanuatu

    National University of Vanuatu

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Commend the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for Elevating Gender Equality to the National Level, Raise Questions on the Treatment of Women Human Rights Defenders and on Human Tra

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today concluded its consideration of the tenth periodic report of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, with Committee Experts commending the State for elevating the issue of gender equality to the national level, while raising questions on its treatment of women human rights defenders, and how it was combatting human trafficking.

    Jie Xia, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, said the Committee commended the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for elevating the issue of gender equality to the national level through domesticating the Convention, developing a law on gender equality, and developing a national action plan and strategy on gender equality, among other measures. 

    A Committee Expert said the Committee had received several names of female human rights defenders who had been poorly treated by the Government and the judiciary.  Could the State party outline recent efforts to review and amend any existing laws, regulations, or decrees that may unduly restrict freedom of expression to ensure that these legal frameworks complied with international human rights standards, including the Convention? What measures was the State taking to investigate the disappearance, maltreatment and deaths of female human rights activists? 

    Another Expert said the Lao People’s Democratic Republic continued to be a renowned source of origin for migrant workers as well as increasingly becoming a country of transit and destination for sexual exploitation and human trafficking.  What were some of the key policies that the National Steering Committee on Anti-Human Trafficking had introduced and implemented in terms of effective anti-trafficking measures?  How was the implementation of the national plan on anti-trafficking carried out?  How did the State ensure that the security forces were working effectively to address the prevalence of trafficking within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone? 

     

    The delegation said the Committee operated on reports from non-governmental organizations, which were often exaggerated.  It was important to look at the reality in the country, rather than organizations that operated reports, which sometimes fit the category of disinformation.  For example, regarding the cases of the so-called female human rights defenders, they were not human rights defenders. They had organised propaganda against the State and had violated criminal law, and were therefore prosecuted and imprisoned. 

    The delegation said a national commission on human trafficking had been established at the provincial, district and national levels.  Focus was directed to the protection of victims.  Trainings were conducted for law enforcement staff on how to identify victims of trafficking, how to refer their cases, and how to further protect them.  The Women’s Union had expanded the shelter services to six provinces in the country. There was a police headquarters located within the Golden Triangle to prevent violations of human rights. Companies operating in this area were encouraged to ensure their staff received medical examinations. 

    Introducing the report, Chansoda Phonethip, Vice President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union and Vice President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children, and head of delegation, said the promotion and protection of women’s rights were at the core of the Government policy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.  In 2019, the National Assembly adopted the law on gender equality, which introduced a wide range of measures to address gender disparities across various sectors.  Under this law, gender-based discrimination was classified as a criminal offense. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic was dedicated to eliminating child marriage through strengthening legal and administrative frameworks, investing in education, and encouraging communities to collectively address the challenges posed by harmful practices such as early marriage and pregnancy. 

    In closing remarks, Ms. Phonethip thanked the Committee for the dialogue, which helped the Lao People’s Democratic Republic fulfil its obligations under the Convention. The Committee’s insights were instrumental to advancing the rights of women and girls in the country.  The State welcomed any support from the international community to help in meeting its obligations under the Convention. 

    Esther Eghobamien-Mshelia, Committee Vice Chair, thanked the delegation for the constructive dialogue with the Committee, which helped it to better understand the situation of women and girls in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

    The delegation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was comprised of representatives from the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Lao Women’s Union; and the Permanent Mission of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s eighty-ninth session is being held from 7 October to 25 October.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 9 October to consider the fifth periodic report of Saudi Arabia (CEDAW/C/SAU/5).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the tenth periodic report of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (CEDAW/C/LAO/10).

    Presentation of Report

    CHANSODA PHONETHIP, Vice President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union and Vice President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children, and head of delegation, said the promotion and protection of women’s rights were at the core of the Government policy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.  All citizens, regardless of sex, had equal rights in political, economic, social and family life, in compliance with the principles and norms of the Convention. The Government had implemented supportive measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which was a key challenge for the country.  These included financial subsidies which particularly targeted unemployed individuals and women factory workers, with a total of 61,511 people benefitting from these initiatives.  The Government also introduced two national agendas, one focusing on addressing economic and financial difficulties, and the other on combatting drug trafficking. 

    In 2019, the National Assembly adopted the law on gender equality, which introduced a wide range of measures to address gender disparities across various sectors. Under this law, gender-based discrimination was classified as a criminal offense.  Over 50 laws had been revised and newly adopted over the past five years, including those aimed at improving women’s rights and ensuring gender equality. The Government had made great efforts to provide legal aid free of charge for disadvantaged people, as outlined in the law on lawyers, and the decree on legal aid.  The Lao People’s Democratic Republic actively maintained three national mechanisms for promoting gender equality and empowering women. These included the Government, represented by the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children; the mass organization, represented by the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union; and the legislature, represented by the National Assembly’s Women’s Caucus. 

    The Government remained committed to reviewing and strengthening its legal frameworks to further enhance protection from violence, particularly through the law on the protection and development of women and the law on the protection of the rights and interests of children.  The State had strengthened its national mechanisms for assisting women and girls who were victims of violence by adopting the “No Wrong Door” approach, ensuring that victims could access essential services, including healthcare, legal aid, and coordinated case management.  Counselling and protection centres had also been extended to five provinces.

    Awareness raising on gender-based violence was conducted and legal information and resources, such as handouts, posters and brochures on violence were widely distributed. 

    The Lao People’s Democratic Republic was dedicated to eliminating child marriage through strengthening legal and administrative frameworks, investing in education, and encouraging communities to collectively address the challenges posed by harmful practices such as early marriage and pregnancy.  The Government undertook a national study on early marriage and pregnancy, which would guide the formulation of policies and action plans to effectively tackle these issues.  The Government was also committed to protecting and supporting children affected by early marriage, ensuring their successful reintegration into society.  The State was dedicated to preventing human trafficking, with a strong focus on vulnerable groups, particularly women in border regions and high-risk communities. 

    Despite advancements made, the representation of female members in the Ninth National Assembly did not meet the set target of 30 per cent.  In response, the Government was actively undertaking a comprehensive review to identify the underlying factors contributing to this decline, particularly focusing on the various barriers that women faced in attaining high-ranking positions.  The outcomes of this study would serve to address these challenges and promote the participation of women in the upcoming elections for the Tenth National Assembly in 2026.  On the other hand, the number of female members of Provincial People’s Assemblies was higher than the set target.  Most recently, three women were promoted to the rank of Brigadier General, a historical moment in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic army. 

    The Government was actively promoting healthier lifestyles by raising awareness about sanitation, nutrition, and comprehensive pre- and post-natal care for women. Recent data reflected a significant decrease in the maternal mortality rate, now at 36.6 per 100,000 live births.  Ms. Phonethip said in 2026, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic would celebrate the forty-fifth anniversary of its ratification of the Convention. While significant achievements had been made in more than four decades, there were still challenges to overcome. It was hoped that the constructive dialogue with the Committee would produce meaningful outcomes. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    JIE XIA, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, thanked the State party for sending a high-level delegation.  The Committee welcomed positive measures taken by the State party since 2018 to advance the status of women, promote gender equality, and eliminate discrimination against women.  The Committee commended the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for elevating the issue of gender equality to the national level through domesticating the Convention, developing a law on gender equality, and developing a national action plan and strategy on gender equality, among other measures. 

    It was noted that the Criminal Code penalised discriminatory acts based on gender.  Had there been any actions taken to directly penalise gender-based discrimination?  How many cases had been brought under article 204?  The Committee commended the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for domesticating the Convention; what measures had been taken to advance this process?  Could the judiciary apply the relevant laws in its rulings?  How many trainings had covered the Convention?  Could up to date information be provided on efforts made to implement the law on gender equality and the third national strategy on gender equality?  Did the State party encourage mediation through legal means?  How was it ensured that people did not escape legal sanctions by taking advantage of mediation? 

    A Committee Expert said the State party had repeatedly declared it was not able to establish a human rights institution in line with the Paris Principles.  What obstacles did the State party face in this regard?  If a female leader wished to establish a federal liberal party for the upcoming elections, would this be allowed?  If not, why not? 

    There were reports that the Government severely restricted non-governmental organizations. Women rights groups were confined to working through the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union, which was a State body.  The Penal Code was also used to prosecute activists and restrict freedom of assembly. The Committee had received several names of female human rights defenders who had been poorly treated by the Government and the judiciary?  Could the State party outline recent efforts to review and amend any existing laws, regulations, or decrees that may unduly restrict freedom of expression to ensure that these legal frameworks complied with international human rights standards, including the Convention?  What measures was the State taking to investigate the disappearance, maltreatment and deaths of female human rights activists?  Was there a public site where detailed statistics related to sex and gender were published annually? 

    Another Expert commended the State party for its initiatives, including training programmes for women in leadership roles.  However, the Committee was concerned that the State party had not instituted temporary special measures to improve specific situations for women and girls.  What was the State party’s concerns regarding the use of temporary special measures?  What steps had been taken to demonstrate the values of temporary special measures and to provide explanations to the general public on the failure to employ these measures?  Would the State party consider the adoption of temporary special measures to fulfil the rights of disadvantaged women and ensure their participation in all areas of life?  What steps was the State party taking to collaborate with stakeholders, including civil society, to implement temporary special measures? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the Penal Code provided for the criminalisation of discrimination against women, and stated that anyone who discriminated against women due to gender would be punished, including by deprivation of liberty and fines.  There had been no cases enacted in the courts so far. The Government paid attention to the functioning of the mediation unit.  It was important to prioritise this mechanism to help avoid people going to the courts, which took time.  Harmony and non-confrontation were important in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. This was why the Government placed significant importance on the functioning of the village mediation unit. Anyone dissatisfied with the outcome of the mediation unit could escalate it to the courts. 

    The Lao People’s Democratic Republic was preparing for the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review early next year, and was working hard in this regard.  Several recommendations pertained to the Convention, which was a key focus of the Government.  The State was also preparing for the forthcoming visit of the Special Rapporteur on cultural rights in November this year.  Law dissemination campaigns were conducted to people in the provinces.  The budget reflected the implementation of the law on gender equality. 

    The delegation said the Government recognised the importance of national human rights institutions.  The Paris Principles had been studied carefully and research had been conducted on examples of such institutions in different countries.  Workshops had been organised, including with Commissioners from India, Indonesia and Myanmar, to learn how their national human rights institutions worked.  The State had different mechanisms in place and a new commission would involve increased resources.  There were established human rights focal points in each sector and issues could be conveyed through them.  Sometimes, taskforces were established to investigate particular human rights issues. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic was trying to strengthen the current mandates of what they had now. Only 118 Member States of the United Nations had established human rights commissions; in Asia, this number was only 15. 

    The Committee operated on reports from non-governmental organizations, which were often exaggerated.  It was important to look at the reality in the country, rather than organizations that operated reports, which sometimes fit the category of disinformation.  For example, regarding the cases of the so-called female human rights defenders, they were not human rights defenders. They had organised propaganda against the State and had violated criminal law, and were therefore prosecuted and imprisoned.  They used the pretext of freedom of expression to violate the law.  Freedom of expression had limits; it was not absolute. 

    The Lao People’s Democratic Republic planned to conduct an economic survey.  From 2017, the State had made efforts to improve existing databases throughout the sectors.  The Government had made efforts to mobilise women to take part in elections. Capacity training was provided to women. An action plan was in place to empower women to hold leadership positions in the commerce sector.  Women were present in all branches of the economy. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert was pleased to hear that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was considering establishing a human rights institution; how long would this process take? How many cases related to gender-based discrimination were conducted in the State party before the courts in the last five years, and how did they end?  It was sad to hear about the State’s general position regarding human rights defenders.  However, it was pleasing to hear the Criminal Code was being reviewed to enhance freedom of expression; how long would this review process take? 

    Another Expert asked what were the concerns and challenges the State faced in regard to using temporary special measures to advance the rights of women in the country? Could these measures be used to reallocate resources to women? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said it was not practical for the State to provide a timeline on establishing a national human rights institution, as they were learning from other countries and strengthening existing mechanisms.  In some cases, people misused and abused human rights treaties, using freedom of expression as a pretext.  In the case of one woman in prison, she had used propaganda to distort information and criticise the Government.  Every 10 years, the Government amended the Constitution and focused on articles which were relevant.  Next year, the Government would organise a population Census which would be gender disaggregated.  This would be used to prepare the next five-year development plan. 

    There were plans to increase the number of women in Government by 2026.  A survey would be conducted to determine why there were decreasing numbers of female parliamentarians.  Regarding temporary special measures, there were challenges in human and financial resources, as well as changing the mindsets of some people who still discriminated against women.  There were few cases of gender discrimination in the courts due to the use of the peaceful mediation resolution, which prevented cases from going to the courts. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said the Lao People’s Democratic Republic had yet to promulgate a national action plan for women, peace and security, in accordance with the Committee’s recommendations.  Would the State consider including the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on women’s security in the plan?  Would the impact of militarisation be addressed?  What was being done to address harmful stereotypes of women and girls, particularly in rural areas?  Would the law on domestic violence be revised to address cybercrime against women and scams against impoverished women?  It was concerning that there was no specific law against spousal rape.  Would affirmative consent be included as an essential component of rape?  Economic turmoil had led to an increase in domestic violence and child marriage. How would economic policies take the most vulnerable into account?  What steps had been taken to assess the impact of the economic crisis on women? 

    Another Expert commended the State’s efforts to address trafficking in persons, including through the enactment of the 2016 anti-trafficking law and the inclusion of article 215 in the 2018 Penal Code, which criminalised both sex and labour trafficking.  The national plan on anti-trafficking in persons combatting and prevention phase III (2021-2025) and the establishment of the National Steering Committee on Anti-Human Trafficking were positive steps.  However, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic continued to be a renowned source of origin for migrant workers as well as increasingly becoming a country of transit and destination for sexual exploitation and human trafficking. What were some of the key policies that the Committee had introduced and implemented in terms of effective anti-trafficking measures?  How was the implementation of the national plan on anti-trafficking carried out? 

    Concerns persisted around the prevalence of trafficking within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone.  Sources reported the sale and trafficking of girls as young as 13 and 14 to China increasingly happening unrestricted through flourishing internet trade.  How did the State ensure that the security forces were working effectively to address such challenges?  What specific actions were being taken to combat the impunity in the Special Economic Zone?  How did the Government plan to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement and judiciary personnel to investigate, prosecute, and secure convictions in trafficking cases? 

    It was positively noted that under the national plan of action on anti-trafficking in persons, a temporary shelter for victims of trafficking in persons was established. Did the State party have any plans to strengthen survivor services and increase resources as well as expand the capacity of shelters, legal aid services, and vocational training programmes, particularly in provinces with higher trafficking risks and women and girls from rural and ethnic minority communities?  Given that many trafficking cases involved border crossings, how was work done with cross-border countries to strengthen the approach against trafficking?  Did the State’s COVID-19 response plan address the heightened risk of trafficking? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was translating the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ women, peace and security plan and would disseminate this.  The State’s national plan of action for 2026 to 2030 was being drafted, and women, peace and security would be integrated into this.  Workshop seminars were organised to look at the traditional practice. To ensure gender equality, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union had made efforts to develop guidelines for domestic violence and promote the reproductive health of women. Projects had been piloted in six provinces in the country. 

    A national commission on human trafficking had been established at the provincial, district and national levels.  Focus was directed to the protection of victims.  The Government focused on preventing trafficking in persons, particularly for women working in factories and those living in remote villages.  The Government also organised anti-human trafficking days in July each year, at the central and local levels.  Trainings were conducted for law enforcement staff on how to identify victims of trafficking, how to refer their cases, and how to further protect them. 

    The Women’s Union had expanded the shelter services to six provinces in the country.  After being rescued, victims were referred to the Union and were provided with shelter and mental and physical support, and they were then reintegrated back into society.  Work was done with the Ministry of Justice to ensure victims could receive justice and the traffickers could be prosecuted.  From June 2024, professional training had been provided for more than 600 people in the area of human trafficking.  There was a police headquarters located within the Golden Triangle to prevent violations of human rights.  Companies operating in this area were encouraged to ensure their staff received medical examinations.  The Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic had developed a legal framework on human trafficking.

    Rape was clarified within the Penal Code; however, the element of affirmative consent was not present. The State needed to explore this option and conduct studies in this regard.  The Lao People’s Democratic Republic had made efforts to cooperate within the multilateral framework and on bilateral mechanisms with neighbouring countries. 

    In the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, more than 200,000 people had been infected by COVID-19. More than 60,000 had died of the virus. The country still faced the continuing impact of COVID-19, and was in the process of recovering.  The country had been faced with economic and financial difficulties, as well as natural disasters and climate change.  The Government had taken concrete measures to address this situation, including for women, to ensure no one was left behind. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert commended the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for making equality a driver towards peace.  The number of women in parliament had improved to 22 per cent, and there was a parliamentary commission, which was positive.  However, parity meant 50/50; it needed to be seen as a relevant solution to poverty.  In the absence of political pluralism, how could the electoral base be expanded to ensure women had access to political parties and leadership?  How could it be ensured that there was a large-scale effort to ensure women had access to voting and being candidates?  How could these developments be accelerated?  What initiatives could be undertaken to ensure real parity for women in the life of the party and the central congress?  What role could the Women’s Union play to train candidates and create momentum?  What could be done to support civil society?  What initiatives could be taken to help women participate in a more effective way?  How was it ensured that ethnic minorities could participate in local development? 

    Another Expert underscored the importance of documentation as proof of nationality. The guide to birth registration and other measures were well noted.  Was information on birth registration from provinces gathered on an annual basis?  What had the percentage increase in registration been?  What target had been reached as of today?  What were the key challenges and what incentives were being considered for the still unregistered 30 per cent?  Was disaggregated data on registrations available?  What measures and incentives were taken to improve birth registration and encourage ethnic minority groups and rural women to register births?  How was the documentation system used to track the State party’s migrant women population?  Could stateless children or children born to immigrant women obtain the nationality of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic?  How many had been granted nationality so far? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said female diplomats in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic played an impressive role in the country’s foreign affairs work.  In 2024, out of 914 diplomats working in the Ministry, 322 were female diplomats, representing 32.5 per cent.  Of 27 ambassador posts, five were women, which was equivalent to 19 per cent.  Of three minister posts, one was a woman.  When there were opportunities such as scholarships, the policy now stated these should be offered to female diplomats first.  This month, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union had successfully completed hosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ Women Entrepreneurs’ Conference 2024.   

    The Ministry of Home Affairs had carried out many activities to raise awareness of birth registration, including printing, publishing and distributing information. If a child was born to stateless parents who had fully integrated into the Lao People’s Democratic Republic culture, the child could obtain nationality on request.  There were several conditions, including speaking the language and respecting the Constitution.  These laws aimed to reduce statelessness.  There were not many stateless people in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said the Committee welcomed that the State party was making efforts to increase the enrolment of girls and women in education.  However, there was a significant gender gap in non-traditional fields, including science, technology, engineering and mathematics. What concrete measures had been taken to ensure parents understood the importance of sending girls to schools? How was the effectiveness of gender-sensitive curricula ensured in order to change gender stereotypes from an early age?  What were the specific measures to increase the access of girls to education? 

    What were the plans to provide necessary education in native languages?  What steps were being taken to improve the infrastructure and resources in schools in remote areas?  What steps were being taken to ensure quality access to education for all women and girls with disabilities?  How would the State party sustain the school lunch programme in rural and remote areas?  How was the issue of child marriage monitored and addressed?  Parents needed to understand that education was important for girls; maybe training and awareness raising was needed for the parents. 

    Another Expert said that since the 1990s, the State party had made efforts to increase women’s participation in the labour market.  Yet despite this, women’s participation had steadily declined since 2012. The gender pay gap in the capital showed that 52 per cent of women employed took home only 77 per cent of men’s average wages.  What were the legislative measures for ensuring equal pay and equal and just working conditions?  What was the State’s assessment of the sharp decrease in women’s participation in the labour market, and what was being done to combat this?  How would these plans target women in vulnerable groups?  What policies were in place to protect migrant women workers?  What were the measures provided under the sexual harassment law? 

    A Committee Expert said the Lao People’s Democratic Republic had approved a decree to establish health insurance which was positive.  One of the key issues recognised by the Government was HIV/AIDS. What were the main results of efforts taken to prevent HIV/AIDS?  What steps had been taken to adopt HIV/AID legislation to expand access to services and combat discrimination?  Could updated information on rural women be provided, including access to services? What was the main reason for the criminalisation of abortion?  What were the main barriers which women and girls in poverty faced when accessing health services?  What access did women in detention have to reproductive health services?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said a group of parents had been created in primary schools to enable them to understand the importance of education.  Lunch boxes had been created for poor students and those who lived in rural areas, which had seen an increase in school enrolment.  A new curriculum had been developed for the schools and teachers had been trained on this.  Scholarships were provided to poor students and job training was provided to give students access to the labour market.  The law on disability aimed to protect the rights of those with disabilities. Within this law, children with disabilities could access educational facilities, the same as anyone else. Special equipment was provided to help these children receive an education.  The Lao People’s Democratic Republic provided tools for developing skills in the labour market. 

    The delegation said a national action plan had been implemented to combat HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases.  In addition to reducing the stigma, the 161 HIV/AIDS centres provided counselling services, with 11 centres providing treatment.  Testing kits for HIV detection were distributed within the communities.  Poor women could give birth in public hospitals free of charge.  In each detention centre, there were medical staff on hand to provide healthcare to detainees.  Other statistics would be provided in writing. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert commended the State party’s efforts to expand social protection coverage. Despite institutional efforts, feminised poverty persisted, and women continued to face great difficulties in gaining access to economic, social and cultural activities.  Could comprehensive data be provided on how women had benefitted from the small and medium enterprise law?  What targeted policies and measures existed to increase access to finances for women?  What gender-specific outcomes existed to demonstrate effectiveness and uptake in the banking sector? 

    What steps were being taken to adopt specific legislation on women’s rights to land? How could women’s roles at village and community levels be increased?  Could updated information be provided on measures taken to allow women in the informal sector to access benefits?  What was the impact of national and international cooperation programmes?  What plans existed to develop opportunities for women in sports?  How strong was the country’s economic, social and cultural framework on gender commitment? 

    Another Expert noted the different actions taken by the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to integrate gender equality into different sectors, including in agriculture and fisheries, to benefit rural women and other marginalised groups. However, there were clear gender gaps in the implementation of Government policies.  What concrete actions would the State party consider taking to ensure the effective implementation of Government initiatives to benefit vulnerable women?  How was gender-responsive climate financing integrated in the national budget?  What concrete steps had been taken to increase rural and other vulnerable women’s access to quality social services? 

    The Committee had received reports of indigenous people evicted from their ancestral land. What steps was the Lao People’s Democratic Republic taking to preserve ancestral land and mitigate the gendered impact of the climate crisis?  What concrete steps were being taken to protect the Hmong people from forceful evictions from their land?  What concrete steps were being taken to provide compensation to women evicted from their land? 

    A Committee Expert said the Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic called for the independence of the judiciary.  How was the Supreme Court trained on the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary? Did women human rights defenders have access to free legal counsel?  How were the village chiefs who were trained to implement the laws monitored?  It was understood that customary laws were part of a traditional system, but these might be outdated in 2024 and could create a stigma for women.  Women were often abandoned with their children in a time of profound economic crisis. Would the State consider social security and childcare arrangements? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said a law existed in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic which defined the right for individual or legal entities to use land, without any discrimination on the grounds of gender.  These were part of the efforts to promote women’s access to land.  The Lao People’s Democratic Republic was in the process of transforming the economy to make it digitalised.  The State had joined the international community in the Global Digital Compact.  Social protection efforts gave women in vulnerable situations top priority. Women were covered as a target group under the Government policy under the Sustainable Development Goals.  The issue of land was very important as many women were engaged in agriculture.  For this reason, the Government aimed to ensure women had access to land.  The Government had a legislative framework on the law of land. 

    Within the legal system of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, a foreigner could not own land, but had the right to use the land.  The country prioritised the need for foreign investors to protect the environment.  Foreign entities did not own 50 per cent of land in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. 

    A committee had been appointed to implement the climate action plan.  Human resources were allocated to implement this plan. Trainings on national disasters were provided in the provinces.  The national disaster preparedness plan had been piloted. Gender equality was mainstreamed across policies in all sectors.  A vaccination campaign was conducted to help prevent communicable disease.  Guidelines were developed to help increase the quality of health coverage. 

    The Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union was in the process of revising the law on the protection of women.  Specific rights had been added, including for the labour market.  The Government issued a decree on lifelong learning in 2020 to develop a policy for rural women and girls to have access to education. 

    Agriculture was the basis of the economy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.  A group of female farmers had been established which provided benefits, including generating income for their families. Currently, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic did not have a specific law on anti-discrimination.  However, the Government had adopted the law on gender equality.  Civil and criminal proceedings were required to be conducted on the basis that all civilians were equal before the law. 

    Campaigns were organised around land ownership to ensure all women understood their rights when it came to inheriting land, as well as the importance of putting their name on the land title.  The Lao People’s Democratic Republic categorically rejected the allegations of forced evictions.  Before being relocated, people were extensively consulted. 

    Closing Remarks

    CHANSODA PHONETHIP, Vice President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Women’s Union and Vice President of the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers and Children and head of delegation, thanked the Committee for the dialogue, which helped the Lao People’s Democratic Republic fulfil its obligations under the Convention.  The Committee’s insights were instrumental to advancing the rights of women and girls in the country.  The Lao People’s Democratic Republic would address the challenges highlighted by the Committee.  The State welcomed any support from the international community to help in meeting its obligations under the Convention. 

    ESTHER EGHOBAMIEN-MSHELIA, Committee Vice Chair, thanked the delegation for the constructive dialogue with the Committee, which helped it to better understand the situation of women and girls in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

     

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

     

    CEDAW24.024E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The cases of unjustly imprisoned Uyghurs in China, notably Ilham Tohti and Gulshan Abbas – B10-0101/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Erik Marquardt, Ville Niinistö, Anna Cavazzini, Markéta Gregorová, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Mounir Satouri, Marie Toussaint, Kira Marie Peter‑Hansen, Rasmus Nordqvist, Villy Søvndal, Catarina Vieira, Majdouline Sbai
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    B10‑0101/2024

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the cases of unjustly imprisoned Uyghurs in China, notably Ilham Tohti and Gulshan Abbas.

    (2024/2857(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to Rules 150 of its Rules of Procedure;

     

    A. whereas the UN attested that the serious and systemic human rights violations against the Uyghurs in Xinjiang may amount to crimes against humanity;

     

    B. whereas on 23 September 2014, Uyghur economist and human rights activist Ilham Tohti was sentenced to life due to his work to foster dialogue and understanding between Uyghurs and Han Chinese; whereas his imprisonment marked the start of the “Strike Hard Campaign against Violent Terrorism” in Xinjiang; whereas he was awarded the European Parliament Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought in 2019;

     

    C. whereas Gulshan Abbas went missing in 2018; whereas there were credible indications she had been sentenced to 20 years in prison in a secret trial, most likely in retaliation for the human rights advocacy conducted by her sister, Rushan Abbas, on behalf of the Uyghurs;

     

    1. Urges the PRC to immediately and unconditionally release Ilham Tohti and Gulshan Abbas, and to stop harassing their families; urges the PRC to respect and restore families’ rights to visit detainees, including virtual communication;

     

    2. Urges the PRC to cease the brutal repression in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong, and to release all arbitrarily detained activists, among others, Ekpar Asat, Rahile Dawut, Jimmy Lai, Chow Hang-tung, Anya Sengdra,  Chadrel Rinpoche, Chen Yunfei, Ding Jiaxi, Ding Yuande, Gao Zhisheng, Go Sherab Gyatso, Golog Palden, He Fangmei, Huang Qi, Huang Xueqin, Hushtar Isa, Yalkun Isa, Li Yanhe, Peng Lifa, Qin Yongming, Qin Yongpei, Ruan Xiaohuan, Semkyi Dolma, Tashi Dorje, Tashpolat Tiyip, Wang Bingzhang, Wang Jianbing, Pastor Wang Yi, Kamile Wayit, Xu Na, Xu Qin, Xu Yan, Xu Zhiyong, Yang Henjung, Yang Maodong, Yu Wensheng, and Pastor Zhang Chunlei and Zhang Zhan;

     

    3. Condemns the extraterritorial repression against Chinese dissidents or the Uyghur community abroad; calls on the Member States to suspend extradition treaties with the PRC;

     

    4. Stresses that, in March 2021, the EU adopted human rights sanctions against Chinese officials and entities responsible for the violations against Uyghurs; recalls that China immediately and unjustifiably sanctioned 5 MEPs, the DROI subcommittee, national MPs and prominent think tanks among others, and that those sanctions are still in place;

     

    5. Stresses that the continuous and serious deterioration of human rights in China will have consequences for the bilateral EU-China relations; expresses strong disappointment about the latest EU-China Human Rights Dialogue, the fact that the EU did not demand information on Tohti’s health conditions as a pre-condition;

     

    6. Welcomes the adoption of a forced labour import ban by the EU and insists on the allocation of adequate financing for its implementation; is alarmed at the increase of exports from Xinjiang to the EU by 140% this year; condemns the unfounded claims by Volkswagen that its Xinjiang factories are forced-labour-free and that the audit failed to meet international standards;

     

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the HR/VP, the PRC and the UN.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHIDCL Reports Outstanding Performance in Infrastructure Development for FY 2023-24

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 08 OCT 2024 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

    National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), a schedule ‘A’ CPSE under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has another year of excellent performance in infrastructural development of 13 States/Union Territories (North Eastern States, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Uttarakhand) and improving connectivity and lives of people living in these States. During the financial year 2023-24, NHIDCL executed 1,160 Kms of Highways and several Infrastructure Projects in these States at the cost of Rs 20,851 crore. The Company also declared dividend of Rs 5.30 per share amounting to Rs 54.59 Crore.

    *****

    NKK/GS

    (Release ID: 2063208) Visitor Counter : 32

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Price of Tur and Urad in major mandis declines by almost 10% in last three months

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Price of Tur and Urad in major mandis declines by almost 10% in last three months

    Current sowing area for Kharif pulses exceeds last year by over 7% and crop condition is good: Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India

    Centre discusses price of pulses with Retailers Association of India (RAI)

    Posted On: 08 OCT 2024 4:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs chaired a meeting with Retailers Association of India (RAI) and major organized retail chains today and discussed the scenario and trends in prices of major pulses. The meeting is timely and significant considering the festive season. Pertinently, mandi prices of most pulses are on declining trend in recent months against improved availability and higher sown area of kharif pulses this year.

    Secretary, Consumer Affairs informed that prices of Tur and Urad in major mandis had declined, on an average, by almost 10% during last three months, but retail prices have not seen similar decline. In respect of Chana, decline in mandi prices have been observed in the past one month, but retail prices continue to increase. She pointed out the diverging trends between wholesale mandi prices and retail prices are indicative of increasingly unwarranted margins that retailers are extracting out of the market dynamics. The trends are being closely tracked and necessary measures will have to be initiated if the divergences are found to be widening.

    The meeting was attended by officials of RAI and representatives from Reliance Retail Ltd., Vishal Mart, D Mart, Spencer and More Retail.

    In respect of availability position, Secretary, Consumer Affairs informed that Kharif Urad and Moong have started arriving in the markets while imports of Tur and Urad from East African countries and Myanmar are arriving steadily to augment the domestic production. The comfortable domestic availability situation is also evident from the fact that the quantity of pulses stock disclosed by big-chain retailers in the stock disclosure portal of Department of Consumer Affairs has been increasing every week.  

    She also pointed out that this year, sowing area for Kharif pulses has exceed last year by over 7% and crop condition has been good. In preparation for Rabi sowing, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has assigned focus plans to each of the major producing States with the objective of increase production and self-sufficiency in pulses. NAFED and NCCF will be involved in farmers registration and seeds distribution among farmers in the upcoming Rabi season, as was done in the Kharif sowing season this year.

    Considering the current availability situation and easing of mandi prices, Secretary asked retail industry to extend all possible support to the Government in its efforts to keep prices of dals affordable to the consumers. In this regard, she invited organized retail chains to coordinate with NCCF and NAFED in the distribution of Bharat Dals, especially Bharat Masur Dal and Bharat Moong Dal, to widen and deepen the coverage and reach of Bharat Dals among consumers.

    ***

    AD/NS

    (Release ID: 2063204) Visitor Counter : 81

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –