NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Resumption of Frontex–Europol data-sharing in the interests of security and combating crime and irregular immigration – P-001768/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001768/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR), Giuseppe Milazzo (ECR)

    Having established, in an audit report published in May 2023[1], that there had been irregularities in Frontex-Europol data-sharing activities, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) reprimanded Frontex on 8 January 2025 for its failure to comply with Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 when transmitting the personal data of cross-border crime suspects to Europol[2], but it did not offer any temporary or definitive solutions to the issue.

    In its reply to a question on this subject, the Commission repeated that the existing rules do not preclude the competence of the two agencies to exchange data, including operational personal data[3].

    Given the serious consequences of suspending data-sharing among EU agencies, as they need to be able to share data to combat organised crime and meet national and European security needs:

    • 1.What steps will the Commission take, not least in the light of the lack of information provided by the EDPS in this regard, to make it possible for systematic and legal exchanges of data, which are an effective tool in combating irregular immigration, to be resumed promptly?
    • 2.With a view to the resumption of data-sharing, can the Commission provide details on the working arrangement currently being discussed by Europol and Frontex and push for its swift adoption?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.edps.europa.eu/data-protection/our-work/publications/audits/2023-05-24-audit-report-frontex_en.
    • [2] https://www.edps.europa.eu/press-publications/press-news/press-releases/2025/edps-reprimands-frontex-non-compliance-regulation-eu-20191896_en.
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-000169-ASW_EN.html.
    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Meeting on he Iranian regime’s activities in Europe with Bartjan Wegter – Delegation for relations with Iran

    Source: European Parliament

    The meeting of the Delegation for relations with Iran took place, IN CAMERA , on Monday, 19 May 2025, at 15.00-16.30 in Brussels (room SPINELLI 1E1).
    The main issue was an exchange of views with Mr Bartjan Wegter, EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator, on the Iranian regime’s destructive activities in Europe and EU’s response

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Provocative EU funding for the jihadist regime that is killing people in Syria – E-001155/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Following the violence in Syria’s coastal region, on 11 March 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement[1] on behalf of the EU, strongly condemning the attacks and the horrific crimes against civilians including summary killings, many of which have been allegedly perpetrated by armed groups supporting the security forces of the transitional authorities. The EU called for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice and welcomed the transitional authorities’ establishment of an independent investigative committee. The EU remains attentive to the actions of the new authorities in ensuring the protection of all Syrians upholding the universality and indivisibility of human rights and the principles of equality and non-discrimination.

    On 17 March 2025, the EU hosted the ninth Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’, committing nearly EUR 2.5 billion for 2025-2026. This is part of the EU’s continuous efforts in building a better future for the Syrian people . The EU’s humanitarian assistance is delivered through pre-certified partners in all parts of Syria, based on people’s needs, humanitarian principles and accountability to affected populations, emphasising transparency, efficiency and effectiveness. The EU’s non-humanitarian assistance follows strict implementation parameters and extensive monitoring, including third party monitoring and risk assessments.

    The EU urges all external actors to respect Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. The EU is committed to supporting an inclusive, Syrian-owned and Syrian-led transition grounded on international law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, pluralism and tolerance among all components of society which guarantees the rights of all Syrians without any kind of discrimination and away from malign foreign interference.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/syria-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-on-the-recent-wave-of-violence/.
    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Recital 72 of the Horizon Europe Regulation on academic freedom and its implementation with regard to Egypt – E-001949/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001949/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christian Ehler (PPE)

    Recital 72 of the Horizon Europe Regulation states that, in order to guarantee scientific excellence, and in line with Article 13 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the programme should promote respect for academic freedom in all countries benefiting from its funds.

    • 1.How is the Commission going to implement this recital with regard to Egypt?
    • 2.How is the Commission going to ensure that researchers involved in EU projects can work on them freely?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Non-evaluation of FATCA agreements by Member States and protection of fundamental rights of EU citizens – E-001950/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001950/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    François-Xavier Bellamy (PPE)

    On 13 April 2021, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) invited Member States to re-evaluate their international agreements involving transfers of personal data, in particular agreements struck with the United States under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), in order to make these agreements compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Four years later, and not a single Member State has published the required evaluation. This inaction constitutes a blatant violation of the obligation of responsibility laid down in Article 24 of the GDPR. During this time, the data of thousands of EU citizens continues to be passed on to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the US tax authority, without demonstrated legal safeguards.

    In France, the Finance Act for 2022 required the French Government to submit a report on the implementation of its information exchange commitments, in line with the GDPR and the recommendations of the EDPB. This report has never seen the light of day. The lack of political will to protect fundamental rights is clear.

    At the same time, the IRS publicly asserts its right to collect data outside the United States, in total disregard of EU legislation.

    • 1.Does the Commission consider it acceptable that this situation persists?
    • 2.Does the Commission plan to launch infringement proceedings against the Member States that are failing to fulfil their obligations under EU law?
    • 3.And, above all: is the Commission finally ready to guarantee that EU citizens’ data will be duly protected, even from non-EU powers?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – General principles of EU industrial policy – 21-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU’s industrial policy aims to make European industry more competitive so that it can maintain its role as a driver of sustainable growth and employment in Europe. The digital transition and the transition towards a carbon-neutral economy have led to the adoption of various strategies to ensure better framework conditions for EU industry. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have sparked new reflections on economic recovery, reconstruction and building resilience.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – 27-29 May: INTA Delegation to Washington, D.C. – Committee on International Trade

    Source: European Parliament

    A delegation of eight Members of the Committee on International Trade (INTA) will travel to Washington, D.C. from 27 to 29 May 2025 to discuss political, trade and investment relations between the US and the EU.

    The delegation will be led by INTA Chair and standing rapporteur for EU-US trade relations, Bernd Lange.

    INTA Members are set to hold meetings with different departments of the US administration and with lawmakers. The meetings will also include US business organisations as well as major EU businesses active in the US. Members will also meet with US trade union representatives, consumer organisations, think tanks and academia.

    Members will hear from different interlocutors and stakeholders how the tariffs imposed by the US administration are being applied, how business is adapting to the tariffs and how can EU-US trade tensions be eased moving forward.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Deal on patent rules exception to ensure the supply of critical products

    Source: European Parliament

    The new rules will ensure that the EU will be able to secure the necessary supply of crisis-relevant products and technologies that are otherwise protected by patents.

    European Parliament and EU government negotiators reached an agreement on new legislation ensuring availability of crisis-relevant products, such as vaccines or chips, during emergencies. According to the new bill, the EU will be able to issue special permission for the production of patent-protected goods during cross-border emergencies, without needing the authorisation of the rights-holder. This would allow the immediate production, for example, of vaccines or therapeutics also by other companies than the one holding the patent.

    This special permission, known as compulsory license, can be issued by the European Commission in clearly defined emergencies, such as a cross-border health crisis or internal market emergency, with specified scope, territorial coverage and duration. It would be used only as a last resort and only in cases where a voluntary agreement between rights-holder and licensee could not be reached. The new law will not apply to defence-related products. In the process of launching the compulsory license procedure, the Commission will have to identify all related intellectual property rights and their holders.

    Right to compensation and fines for breaches

    The rights-holder would also be entitled to appropriate remuneration for the use of their patent by the licensee. The amount and timeframe for payment would be determined by the Commission and specified in the compulsory license. The regulation does not require the disclosure of trade secrets.

    The new rules also clarify obligations for licensees, e.g. not to produce more products than a set maximum amount and to label the products manufactured under compulsory license. Should a licensee breach the agreed obligations, such as producing more products than allowed or exporting them from the EU, the Commission can impose a fine not exceeding €300,000 and in the case of small or medium-sized enterprise not exceeding €50,000.

    Consulting advisory body, rights-holders and licensees

    A competent advisory body, or if such an organisation does not exist, an ad-hoc advisory body will issue its non-binding opinion on the need to grant an EU compulsory license. Rights-holders and licensees will also be consulted during the process and notified of the termination or expiry of a compulsory license.

    Quote

    Following the negotiations, rapporteur of the Legal Affairs Committee Adrián Vázquez Lázara (EPP, ES) said: “I am proud to see this regulation adopted. It strikes a crucial balance between protecting intellectual property rights and ensuring that, in times of crisis, essential technologies and products can be made available swiftly across the Union. This framework enhances our collective preparedness and reinforces the EU’s commitment to both innovation and public welfare.”

    Next steps

    Once formally approved by the Parliament as a whole and the member states, the regulation will enter into force one day after its publication in the Official Journal.

    Background

    The European Commission presented its proposal on compulsory licensing in April 2023, as part of the EU patent package focusing on completion of the Single Market for patents. It was its reaction to the European Parliament resolution of November 2021, where it called on the Commission to analyse the possibility of compulsory licencing at the EU level.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Philippines accuses China of aggressive tactics in South China Sea

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Philippines’ fisheries bureau said the lives of a civilian crew were put at risk when the Chinese Coast Guard fired water cannons and sideswiped one of its vessels while it conducted marine research around a disputed South China Sea reef.

    The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources condemned what it said was the “aggressive interference” of the Chinese Coast Guard against the Datu Sanday and a second ship in Wednesday’s incident, saying its vessels had not previously been subjected to water cannons in the area. The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Thursday’s statement by the bureau.

    Sandy Cay is close to Thitu Island, the largest and most strategically important of the nine features the Philippines occupies in the Spratly archipelago, where China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam also have a presence.

    Last month, China said its Coast Guard had landed on Sandy Cay as part of operations to exercise its sovereignty. The Philippines has denied Beijing has seized control of the disputed reef.

    China claims sovereignty over nearly all the South China Sea, including areas claimed by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

    A 2016 ruling of an international arbitral tribunal found Beijing’s sweeping claims had no basis under international law, a decision China rejects.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 10 new Joint Cadet Centres delivered in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    10 new Joint Cadet Centres delivered in Wales

    10 new Joint Cadet Centres are being delivered in Wales as part of a national effort to modernise the reserve and cadet estate.

    Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers outside their new Joint Cadet Centre in Caldicot. Copyright: RFCA for Wales.

    Under the Secretary of State-directed Reserve Estates Optimisation Programme (REOP), a number of sites across Wales were identified for development as new shared Joint Cadet Centres. As a result, 10 new centres are being created either as refurbished sites or brand-new modular builds, e.g. Caldicot in the south.

    The project is RFCA for Wales’ contribution to the government’s drive to improve the cadet and reserve estate across the UK. This comes after a national review of the reserve and cadet estate in 2020, which examined the reach, condition, suitability and value-for-money of every cadet and reserve building in the UK.

    While the initiative is being led by the Ministry of Defence (MOD), the council of RFCAs, regional RFCAs and Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) are closely involved. The REOP has so far delivered 59 out of 88 planned projects, which will amount to c. £45 million invested once complete, and just over £5 million invested across the 10 sites in Wales.

    RFCA for Wales Head of Estates, Mr Phil Young, said:

    We are adapting and improving our estate to ensure we have the right buildings in the right locations to meet the needs of cadets in the future.

    The programme in Wales has meant that 12 cadet and reserve sites are being disposed of, contributing to a more efficient estate. One of the latest developments is a new Joint Cadet Centre in Penarth, where 2 existing air cadet buildings were extended and reconfigured to create one building. The local army cadets also make use of the new shared accommodation.

    In Caldicot, the old Army Cadet Force building in Mill Lane was razed to the ground to make way for a bespoke £1.2 million building which opened its doors last summer, with space for collaborative training between the army and air cadets.

    Kerris Drew, Staff Sergeant Instructor of Caldicot ACF, said:

    This new state-of-art building is great – it’s so much bigger than the old one with better facilities, including more classrooms which allow us to carry out more efficient and targeted training with the cadets. Outside there is a parade area for drill practice and a garden with wildlife boxes. It also has a spacious stores room, offices and even air conditioning.

    5 new centres have already been created at Blaina, Blackwood, Caldicot, Penarth and Pengam-Cascade, and a further 5 are in the works at Tredegar, Bangor, Bridgend, Ammanford and Ebbw Vale.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: April 2025 Transaction Data

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    April 2025 Transaction Data

    This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in April 2025.

    NicoElNino/Shutterstock.com

    Please note this data shows what HM Land Registry has been able to process during the time period covered and is not necessarily a reflection of market activity.

    In April:

    • HM Land Registry completed over 1,811,920 applications to change or query the Land Register 
    • The South East topped the table of regional applications with 408,047

    HM Land Registry completed 1,811,924 applications in April compared with 1,974,155 in March 2025 and 1,953,642 last April 2024, of which: 

    • 285,129 were applications for register updates compared with 295,653 in March
    • 1,058,989 were applications for an official copy of a register compared with 1,097,576 in March
    • 158,279 were search and hold queries (official searches) compared with 263,960 in March
    • 78,380 were transactions for value compared with 83,730 in March * 14,592 were postal applications from non-account holders compared with 15,564 in March

    Applications by region and country 

    Region/country February applications March applications April applications
    South East 401,605 444,651 408,047
    Greater London 340,916 370,483 336,247
    North West 207,672 227,167 208,094
    South West 175,173 191,416 174,721
    West Midlands 156,886 169,372 155,674
    Yorkshire and the Humber 143,216 157,393 145,196
    East Midlands 133,701 145,134 133,700
    North 88,757 96,664 90,391
    East Anglia 76,081 84,604 77,323
    Isles of Scilly 64 77 53
    Wales 82,335 87,088 82,370
    England and Wales (not assigned) 94 106 108
    Total 1,806,500 1,974,155 1,811,924

    Top 5 local authority areas 

    April 2024 applications

    Top 5 Local authority areas April applications
    Birmingham 29,015
    City of Westminster 23,624
    Leeds 20,615
    North Yorkshire 20,400
    Buckinghamshire 18,668

    March 2025 applications

    Top 5 local authority areas March applications
    Birmingham 31,179
    City of Westminster 26,760
    North Yorkshire 22,416
    Leeds 21,919
    Cornwall 21,623

    Top 5 customers 

    April 2024 applications

    Top 5 customers April applications
    Infotrack Limited 195,556
    Enact 33,159
    O’Neill Patient 30,861
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 29,905
    Orbital Witness Limited 28,157

    March 2025 applications

    Top 5 customers March applications
    Infotrack Limited 212,489
    Enact 35,812
    O’Neill Patient 30,751
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 29,962
    Orbital Witness Limited 28,718

    Access the full dataset on our Use land and property data service.

    Next publication 

    Transaction Data is published on the 15th working day of each month. The May 2025 data will be published at 11am on Friday 20 June 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trying to Reason with Hurricane Season: CPSC Tips to Keep Americans Safe

    Source: US Consumer Product Safety Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – June 1 marks the start of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers along the Atlantic Seaboard and the Gulf of America about the increased risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, fires and electric shock after hurricanes and severe storms hit.
    “These storms bring along with them power, devastation and destruction of their own,” said CPSC Acting Chairman Peter Feldman. “However, the dangers associated with these storms do not end when the winds and rain subside. I urge all Americans to follow CPSC’s safety tips this hurricane season to do their best to be safe before, during and after the storms.”
    Consumers need to be especially careful when storms knock out electrical power. CO poisoning from portable generators can kill whole families in minutes. CO is called the invisible killer because it is colorless and odorless, and its poisoning can happen in only a matter of minutes. Sadly, people can become unconscious even before recognizing symptoms of nausea, dizziness or weakness. 
    Unfortunately, CO poisoning claims the lives of hundreds of people each year. When we see these deaths occur from generators when the power is out, it makes the storm’s effects that much more devastating. To mitigate their risk of CO poisoning, consumers should follow these safety tips to protect their families, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season lasting from the beginning of June to the end of November. 
    Loss of Power—Using a Generator Safely

    NEVER use a portable generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed or other enclosed spaces, even with the doors open. Opening doors or windows will not provide enough ventilation to prevent the buildup of lethal levels of CO.
    Use portable generators outside only, at least 20 feet away from home and any other buildings. Don’t use a generator on a porch or in a carport; it’s too close to your home and puts your family at risk of CO poisoning. Direct the generator’s exhaust away from your home and other buildings where someone can enter. Close windows and seal off vent openings that are near the generator or in the path of its exhaust.
    Follow portable generator instructions about electrical shock hazards in inclement weather. These instructions may include use of an NFPA-rated non-combustible generator tent or may state to wait to use until rain passes.
    Regularly check and maintain your portable generator to ensure that it will work properly when needed. Read and follow all labels, instructions and warnings on the generator and in the owner’s manual.
    Look for portable generators that have a CO shut-off safety feature. This safety feature automatically shuts off the generator when high levels of CO are present around the generator. Models that are certified to the latest PGMA G300-2023 and UL 2201 safety standards are estimated to reduce deaths from CO poisoning by 86% and 100% respectively. 
    UL 2201 certified models have reduced CO emissions in addition to the CO shut-off feature.

    Check CO and Smoke Alarms

    Working smoke and CO alarms save lives! Install working CO and smoke alarms (battery-operated or with battery backup) on every level and outside sleeping areas at home. Interconnected alarms are best; when one sounds, they all sound. 
    Make sure smoke alarms are installed inside each bedroom.  
    Test CO and smoke alarms monthly to make sure they are working properly, and replace batteries, if needed. Never ignore an alarm when it sounds. Get outside immediately. Then call 911.

    Dangers with Charcoal and Candles

    Never use charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal in an enclosed space can produce lethal levels of carbon monoxide. Do not cook on a charcoal grill in a garage, even with the garage door open.
    Use caution when burning candles. Use flashlights or battery-operated candles instead. If using candles, do not burn them on or near anything that can catch fire. Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish candles when leaving the room and before sleeping.

    If Your Home Floods—Dangers with Wet Appliances

    Look for signs that your appliances have gotten wet. Do not touch wet appliances that are still plugged into an electrical source. 
    Before using your appliances, have a professional gas or electric company representative evaluate your home and replace all gas control valves, electrical wiring, circuit breakers, and fuses that have been under water.

    Dangers with Gas Leaks: 

    If you smell or hear gas leaking, leave your home immediately and contact local gas authorities from outside the home. Do not operate any electronics, such as lights or phones, before leaving.

    CPSC resources:
    Carbon Monoxide Safety Center
    PSA – One portable generator produces the same amount of Carbon Monoxide as hundreds of cars
    PSA – Una planta eléctrica produce la misma cantidad de monóxido de carbono como cientos de autos
    Link to broadcast quality video for media: 
    Hurricane B-Roll – https://spaces.hightail.com/space/XtFQ7YqK0x
    Individual Commissioners may have statements related to this topic.  Please visit www.cpsc.gov/commissioners to search for statements related to this or other topics.

    About the U.S. CPSCThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. Since the CPSC was established more than 50 years ago, it has worked to ensure the safety of consumer products, which has contributed to a decline in injuries associated with these products. 
    Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.
    For lifesaving information:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Reacts to Activist Judge Ruling to Halt the Deportation of Barbaric Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Murderers, Rapists, and Pedophiles

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Reacts to Activist Judge Ruling to Halt the Deportation of Barbaric Criminal Illegal Aliens Including Murderers, Rapists, and Pedophiles

    WASHINGTON – DHS conducted a deportation flight to remove some of the most barbaric, violent individuals illegally in the United States

    All of these individuals had final orders of removal

      Now a federal judge in Massachusetts is halting their deportation and trying to force President Trump to bring these criminals back to American soil

    “This ruling is deranged

    These depraved individuals have all had their day in court and been given final deportation orders

     A reminder of who was on this plane: murderers, child rapists, an individual who raped a mentally & physically disabled person,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin

    “The message this activist judge is sending to victims and their families is we don’t care

    President Trump and Secretary Noem are working every day to get vicious criminals out of our country while activist judges are fighting to bring them back onto American soil

    ” 

    Below are the individuals ICE removed from American communities:  
    Enrique ARIAS-Hierro, a Cuban national, was arrested by ICE Miami on May 2, 2025

    His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, armed robbery, false impersonation of official, kidnapping, robbery strong arm

    He was issued a final order of removal on September 13, 1999

    Image

    On April 30, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Cuban national, Jose Manuel RODRIGUEZ-QUINONES

    He has been convicted of attempted first degree murder with a weapon, battery and larceny, cocaine possession and trafficking

    He was issued a final order of removal on December 4, 2012

    Image

    Thongxay NILAKOUT, a citizen of Laos, was arrested by ICE Los Angeles on January 26, 2025

    NILAKOUT is Convicted of first-degree murder and robbery; sentenced to life confinement

    He was issued a final order of removal on July 12, 2023

    Image

    On May 12, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Mexican national, Jesus MUNOZ-Gutierrez

    He is Convicted of second-degree murder; sentenced to life confinement

    He was issued a final order of removed on June 16, 2005

    Image

    Dian Peter DOMACH, a citizen of South Sudan, was arrested by ICE St

    Paul on May 8, 2024

    DOMACH is convicted of robbery and possession of a firearm, of possession of burglar’s tools and possession of defaced firearm and driving under the influence

    He was issued a final order of removal on July 19, 2011

    Image

    Kyaw MYA, a citizen of Burma was arrested by ICE St

    Paul on February 18, 2025

    MYA is convicted of Lascivious Acts with a Child-Victim less than 12 years of age; sentenced to 10 years confinement, paroled after 4 years

    He was issued a final order of removal on March 17, 2022

    Image

    Nyo MYINT, a citizen of Burma was arrested by ICE St

    Paul on February 18, 2025

    MYINT is convicted of first-degree sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting; sentenced to 12 years confinement

    MYINT is also charged with aggravated assault-nonfamily strongarm

    He was issued a final order of removal on August 17, 2023

    Image

    On May 3, 2025, ICE Seattle arrested Tuan Thanh PHAN, a Vietnamese national

    PHAN is Convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault; sentenced to 22 years confinement

    He was issued a final order of removal on June 17, 2009

    Image

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – DUNDEE PRECIOUS METALS INC – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Dundee Precious Metals Inc  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 21 May 2025  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 NO  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: Common (CA2652692096)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 8,334,783 4.99 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 8,334,783 * 4.99 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 17,900 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
             
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 22 May 2025  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Unveils Full-Stack Roadmap Across Trade, Earn, Pay, and Discover

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has unveiled its product roadmap following a recent brand overhaul, outlining a series of updates designed to simplify crypto and expand real-world use. The roadmap is built around four core functions—Trade, Earn, Pay, and Discover—and is backed by a $1 million community incentive campaign and the launch of a global Champion Program aimed at accelerating adoption. These initiatives are part of Bitget Wallet’s broader Crypto for Everyone movement, which focuses on making self-custody tools more accessible, intuitive, and useful in everyday life.

    “Bitget Wallet is no longer just a place to store tokens — it’s becoming the starting point for how people trade, earn, pay, and explore onchain,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “This roadmap is about delivering smarter, simpler crypto experiences that solve real user pain points and bring crypto closer to everyday life.”

    With over 80 million users globally, Bitget Wallet has evolved from a basic wallet app into a full-featured gateway for onchain activity. Its trading experience now covers the entire flow — discover, analyze, and execute — with tools like Hot Picks, real-time alerts, and curated token insights designed to surface early-stage opportunities. Through Bitget Wallet Alpha, users can monitor smart money movements, onchain behaviors such as sniper bots and dev wallet activity, and access tools including market charts, AI-generated summaries, and sentiment feeds. Trades are executed through a one-click, gas-free Super DEX that aggregates liquidity across 100+ DEXs and supports tokens across 130+ blockchains, with MEV protection and dynamic slippage built in.

    To help users grow their assets, Bitget Wallet currently offers one-click staking and automated yield generation, and will soon launch its Simple Yield Vault, enabling balances to earn interest automatically while remaining instantly spendable. Future updates include support for tokenized real-world assets, such as stocks, bonds, and gold, allowing users to manage diversified portfolios directly within the app. An upgraded Earn Dashboard will offer performance tracking with gain charts and detailed earning breakdowns.

    On the payments front, Bitget Wallet is one of the first wallets to integrate a built-in shop page, where users can purchase goods and services from over 300 brands using crypto — without needing to convert to fiat. From mobile top-ups and gaming to travel and e-commerce, the shop covers major global merchants like Amazon, Google Play, Shopee, and more. Through Payfi integrations, the wallet is the only self-custodial wallet supporting maximum payment flexibility via crypto cards, QR code scans, and in-app purchases. Integrations with national QR code systems in Asia and Latin America are also underway to support local merchant payments. The Bitget Wallet Card is already live in Asia, with further expansion in Europe and Latin America to support everyday crypto spending globally.

    To make onboarding easier, Bitget Wallet will soon launch Simple Mode in selected regions, offering a streamlined interface where the concept of gas and chains are completely abstracted away and tailored to Web3 newcomers. A new AI-powered support chatbot is in development to assist users in real time. In parallel, the platform’s Discover page is being upgraded into a central hub for onchain activity, featuring a smart DApp browser, testnet tools, multi-chain playbooks, and push notifications for airdrops and project updates, making it easier for users to navigate the broader Web3 ecosystem.

    Security continues to be a core focus. Bitget Wallet uses advanced encryption and MPC-based recovery to simplify account access without relying on traditional seed phrases. Real-time risk detection, phishing alerts, and smart transaction protections work together to help users stay safe. As wallets expand from basic storage into multi-functional financial apps, Bitget Wallet continues to prioritize both security and simplicity across user experience.

    Bitget Wallet’s roadmap highlights its broader vision of building a crypto wallet for everyone — from first-time users to advanced traders. With nearly 100 Web3 projects joining its Crypto for Everyone Movement, Bitget Wallet is launching new user onboarding programs, educational initiatives, and ecosystem partnerships — backed by a $1 million incentive campaign to drive adoption. Complementing these efforts, the Bitget Wallet Champion Program empowers community leaders and content creators worldwide to drive Web3 adoption through education, engagement, and exclusive rewards. The wallet aims to close the gap between crypto and real-world usage, enabling anyone to benefit from Web3 — wherever they are on their journey.

    For more details on the product roadmap, please visit the Bitget Wallet blog.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4ceb2d7f-2514-45ba-9ea9-1764091b44c8

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Amplify Energy to Participate in the 2025 Louisiana Energy Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Amplify Energy Corp. (“Amplify” or the “Company”) (NYSE: AMPY) announced today that the Company will be participating in the 2025 Louisiana Energy Conference on Wednesday, May 28th at the Four Seasons in New Orleans, LA.

    Amplify’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Martyn Willsher, will be participating in a panel discussion regarding the topic of “Small Cap E&Ps See Value Creation in U.S. Basins Beyond the Permian.” In addition, Mr. Willsher will be available to meet with investors during the conference.

    About Amplify Energy

    Amplify Energy Corp. is an independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the acquisition, development, exploitation and production of oil and natural gas properties. Amplify’s operations are focused in Oklahoma, the Rockies (Bairoil), federal waters offshore Southern California (Beta), East Texas / North Louisiana, and the Eagle Ford (Non-op). For more information, visit www.amplifyenergy.com.

    Investor Relations Contacts

    Jim Frew – Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
    (832) 219-9044
    james.frew@amplifyenergy.com

    Michael Jordan – Director, Finance and Treasurer
    (832) 219-9051
    michael.jordan@amplifyenergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: OEUK news OEUK Conference 2025: Leaders meet to define the North Sea’s energy future 22 May 2025

    Source: Offshore Energy UK

    Headline: OEUK news

    OEUK Conference 2025: Leaders meet to define the North Sea’s energy future

    22 May 2025

    Accessibility Statement

    • oeuk.org.uk
    • 22 May 2025

    Compliance status

    We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

    To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

    This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

    Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

    If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email [email protected]

    Screen-reader and keyboard navigation

    Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

    1. Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.

      These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.

    2. Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.

      Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

    Disability profiles supported in our website

    • Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
    • Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
    • Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
    • ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
    • Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
    • Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

    Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments

    1. Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
    2. Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
    3. Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
    4. Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
    5. Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
    6. Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
    7. Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

    Browser and assistive technology compatibility

    We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).

    Notes, comments, and feedback

    Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: G+ issues new good practice guidance for mechanical lifting operations in the offshore wind industry

    Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA

    Headline: G+ issues new good practice guidance for mechanical lifting operations in the offshore wind industry

    The G+ has issued new good practice guidance (GPG), developed with IMCA, to share, advance and encourage good practice for the governance of lifting operations in the offshore wind industry, setting out the collective expectations of G+ members.

    Developed in collaboration with experts in IMCA’s Marine division, this GPG builds on and signposts existing good practices and guidance (including standards, recommendations, and codes of practice) from the wind industry and the wider marine and offshore energy sectors.

    G+ is the global health and safety organisation bringing together the offshore wind industry to pursue shared goals and outcomes. It is run in partnership with the Energy Institute, which provides the secretariat and supports its work.

    The GPG can be used to: 

    • establish consistent, common ground for the project, avoiding conflict between the systems of different parties,

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN to participate in the 46th ASEAN Summit, 2nd ASEAN- GCC Summit and ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Source: ASEAN

    At the invitation of The Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and Chair of ASEAN for 2025, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will lead the ASEAN Secretariat Delegation to participate in the 46th ASEAN Summit, 2nd ASEAN Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and ASEAN-GCC-China Summit to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 26-27 May 2025, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”
     
    The series of meetings will also include the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Youth, and ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC).
     
    Prior to the Summits, Dr. Kao will also take part in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM), 29th ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting, 25th ASEAN Economic Community Council (AECC) Meeting and the 36th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) Meeting, on 25 May 2025.
     
    Dr. Kao is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with high-level dignitaries from ASEAN, ASEAN’s external partners as well as from international organisations to exchange views on enhancing existing cooperation, exploring new areas for collaboration and advancing ASEAN Community-building efforts. Dr. Kao will also engage in media interviews to promote ASEAN’s diplomacy, visibility and awareness.
     
    The series of high-level meetings will provide an excellent opportunity to take stock of ASEAN’s progress, set future directions and reaffirm ASEAN’s commitment to regional peace, stability, and sustainable development, especially in a time when ASEAN embarks on ASEAN Community Vision 2045, a historic 20-year vision of ASEAN
    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN to participate in the 46th ASEAN Summit, 2nd ASEAN- GCC Summit and ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the President of ERIA and the Dean of the ERIA School of Government

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon held a meeting with President of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) Professor Tetsuya Watanabe and Dean of the ERIA School of Government Professor Nobuhiro Aizawa, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The meeting discussed ERIA’s ongoing work and its strategic direction. Both sides emphasised their continued collaboration to promote regional integration, peace, and prosperity. ERIA also expressed its appreciation to Dr. Kao for his leadership in facilitating the official visit of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, to the ERIA School of Government’s Leadership Lecture, on 6 May 2025.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the President of ERIA and the Dean of the ERIA School of Government appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Women as Agents of Change: Shaping Resilience through Sponge Cities

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    One of the strongest success factors behind SZWG’s gender action plan was leadership commitment, particularly from senior champions like Vice President Ji, who modeled inclusive leadership and advocated for key reforms such as the Childcare Leave policy.

    Another key enabler was the Women’s Committee, which acted as an internal driver for change. By working closely with HR and the Labor Union, the committee translated employee needs into concrete actions—such as the successful launch of subsidized psychological counseling during the pandemic. This responsiveness built trust and ensured that such initiatives were grounded in workforce needs.

    Setting measurable targets for women in leadership also proved effective in raising awareness and accountability, particularly in a sector with historically low female representation.

    What could have made this even stronger? Formalizing these successes into policy. Making inclusion targets part of official HR practices, like setting leadership benchmarks, would help ensure long-term progress, not just one-time wins.

    Inclusion should not be isolated to certain departments or administrative roles. Women have a crucial role to play in water management itself. At SZWG, female staff are increasingly involved in technical training, innovation, and knowledge-sharing on sponge city development and smart water systems. Their growing presence in technical roles has improved outcomes and sparked more holistic, community-minded solutions.

    Key takeways for other organizations

    • Find and empower visible champions who can push for bold, practical reforms.
    • Establish women-led groups to keep inclusion efforts grounded in staff needs.
    • Turn early wins into long-term policy—think beyond awareness and into accountability.
    • Actively involve women in innovation, decision-making and technical fields.
    • Support employee well-being, not as an add-on, but as a foundation for inclusive culture.

    When women are empowered—not only in the workplace but also as decision-makers and innovators in the water sector —they become powerful agents of change. SZWG’s experience shows that by investing in women’s leadership, both within the organization and across the sector, it’s possible to drive smarter solutions and build more resilient cities. This is how resilience is built—through inclusive leadership and smart urban water systems shaped by diverse voices.

    [1] SZWG’s sponge city development is guided by modeling of surface water, weather patterns, drainage systems, and groundwater. It involves low-impact development techniques such as the use of wetlands, permeable pavements, rainwater gardens, green roofs, storage facilities, wastewater reuse, and managed aquifer recharge.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Legal academic says Samoa’s criminal libel law should go after charge

    By Don Wiseman, RNZ Pacific senior journalist

    An Auckland University law academic says Samoa’s criminal libel law under which a prominent journalist has been charged should be repealed.

    Lagi Keresoma, the first female president of the Journalists Association of Samoa (JAWS) and editor of Talamua Online, was charged under the Crimes Act 2013 on Sunday after publishing an article about a former police officer, whom she asserted had sought the help of the Head of State to withdraw charges brought against him.

    JAWS has already called for the criminal libel law to be scrapped and Auckland University academic Beatrice Tabangcoro told RNZ Pacific that the law was “unnecessary and impractical”.

    “A person who commits a crime under this section is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding 175 penalty units or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months,” the Crimes Act states.

    JAWS said this week that the law, specifically Section 117A of the Crimes Act, undermined media freedom, and any defamation issues could be dealt with in a civil court.

    JAWS gender representative to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) said Keresoma’s arrest “raises serious concerns about the misuse of legal tools to independent journalism” in the country.

    Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson called on the Samoan government “to urgently review and repeal criminal defamation laws that undermine democratic accountability and public trust in the justice system”.

    Law removed and brought back
    The law was removed by the Samoan government in 2013, but was brought back in 2017, ostensibly to deal with issues arising on social media.

    Auckland University’s academic Beatrice Tabangcoro . . . reintroduction of the law was widely criticised at the time. Image: University of Auckland

    Auckland University’s academic Beatrice Tabangcoro told RNZ Pacific that this reintroduction was widely criticised at the time for its potential impact on freedom of speech and media freedom.

    She said that truth was a defence to the offence of false statement causing harm to reputation, but in the case of a journalist this could lead to them being compelled to reveal their sources.

    The academic said that the law remained unnecessary and impractical, and she pointed to the Samoa Police Commissioner telling media in 2023 that the law should be repealed as it was used “as a tool for harassing the media and is a waste of police resources”.

    Tonga and Vanuatu are two other Pacific nations with the criminal libel law on their books, and it is something the media in both those countries have raised concerns about.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Kenyan farmers, civil society, and advocates take seed fight to court in landmark case for food sovereignty

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Soundbytes: Click here, Photos: Click here

    In the quiet court corridors of Machakos, a storm has been brewing—one not about legal technicalities, but about seeds, sovereignty, and the survival of a farming culture.

    On 20 May, fifteen smallholder farmers from across Kenya stepped into the High Court to challenge the constitutionality of Kenya’s Seed and Plant Varieties Act (Cap. 326), a law they say criminalises their very way of life. The case, supported by Greenpeace Africa, Seed Savers Network, and the Biodiversity and Biosafety Association of Kenya (BIBA), could redefine the country’s agricultural future.

    At the centre of the petition is a clause that forbids the exchange, sale, or use of uncertified seeds, including traditional and indigenous varieties. Farmers argue that these laws, enforced with steep fines and even jail time, target the country’s poorest growers and sever ties to centuries-old seed practices.

    “This law criminalises the legacy of our grandmothers,” said Justus Mwololo, one of the petitioners. “We’re not just defending seeds—we’re defending a whole history of resilience.”

    The courtroom was packed with advocates and farmers alike, many in traditional attire, bearing placards that read: “Our grandmothers fed nations, now you call them criminals?” Outside, the air was charged with chants and song as a peaceful procession marched through Machakos town.

    Inside, the arguments were precise and passionate.

    “The Constitution guarantees the right to culture and food,” said Alvin Munandick, appearing on behalf of Greenpeace Africa. “Seed sharing is not a crime. It’s an ancestral practice.”

    “What these provisions allow is shocking,” added Wambugu Wanjohi, representing the Law Society of Kenya. “Seed inspectors are empowered to raid farmers’ homes and seize property. This is a violation of privacy, property rights, and human dignity.”

    The case has rallied broad support from civil society. According to Ann Maina, National Coordinator of BIBA, this legal battle is about much more than seeds.

    “It’s about food security. About biodiversity. About resisting a top-down system that tries to put our food under lock and key,” she said.

    Daniel Wanjama, from the Seed Savers Network, pointed out that over 80% of seeds used by Kenyan farmers come from informal, farmer-managed systems.

    “To criminalise this is to criminalise the backbone of our food system,” he warned. “And it puts us all at risk of hunger.”

    The government has yet to formally respond to the petitioners’ claims, but the stakes are already clear. If the court rules in favour of the farmers, it could upend a seed policy landscape long dominated by private agribusiness and shift the power back to communities.

    “This case is a fight for the right to exist as a farmer,” said Penninah Ngahu, another petitioner. “If the government wants more seeds, why not invest in us? We’ve been growing food for generations.”

    As the court adjourned, the date of judgment, 27 November 2025, was etched into the minds of everyone present. For the farmers, it marks not just a legal verdict but a test of Kenya’s constitutional commitment to cultural heritage, food rights, and ecological justice.

    “Seed is life,” said Claire Nasike Akello, food scientist and food sovereignty advocate. “And life cannot be patented, regulated out of reach, or stolen from the hands that feed us.”

    For further information, interviews, or media inquiries, please contact:

    Ferdinand Omondi, Communication and Story Manager, Greenpeace Africa, Email: [email protected], Cell: 0722 505 233

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £26 million CashBack for Communities

    Source: Scottish Government

    Increased funding to help young people away from crime.

    Projects supporting young people at risk of being drawn into criminal activities are to receive up to £26 million over the next three years.

    The Scottish Government’s CashBack for Communities programme uses money recovered from seized criminal assets to provide crucial support to young people who may be at risk of becoming involved in offending or antisocial behaviour.

    Successful projects in the programme’s next stage (2026-2029) will deliver a range of activities and support for those aged 10 to 25, to help tackle some of the underlying causes of antisocial behaviour and criminal activity. Projects will also provide access to trusted adults who young people can confide in.

    Since 2008 CashBack for Communities has invested £156 million and supported around 1.4 million young people across all 32 local authorities in Scotland.

    Visiting a project based at Glasgow’s Easterhouse Sports Centre, Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown said:

    “CashBack for Communities is inspiring. It turns the proceeds of crime into life-changing opportunities for the thousands of young people who take part in projects across Scotland every year.

    “Over the course of the next three years of the programme, we are providing £26 million to organisations to deliver diversionary and support work with children and young people. By learning new skills and boosting their confidence, it helps young people in our communities who are at risk of becoming involved in crime be diverted from that path and realise their potential.

    “Since its inception more than a million young people have received support to turn their lives around, with opportunities provided into employment, education or volunteering. CashBack’s success is also testament to the work of law enforcement partners in disrupting organised crime groups – bringing them to justice and seizing their ill-gotten gains, using them to deliver a successful programme across the country.”

    Background

    CashBack for Communities is a Scottish Government initiative which takes funds recovered through the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and invests them back into communities. It supports delivery of Scottish Government’s Vision for Justice in Scotland.

    More information on the CashBack for Communities programme. Applications for funding open on 12 June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Professor Beth Lord appointed to REF role The University of Aberdeen’s Professor Beth Lord has been appointed as deputy chair of an expert sub-panel that will assess research in REF 2029.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Professor Beth Lord

    The University of Aberdeen’s Professor Beth Lord has been appointed as deputy chair of an expert sub-panel that will assess research in REF 2029.
    The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a process of academic review. UK institutions make submissions into units of assessment (UoAs) each of which is assessed by an expert sub-panel , working under the guidance of four main panels.
    Professor Lord is deputy chair of the Philosophy sub-panel (UoA 30) working with Professor Bill Child from the University of Oxford as chair.
    They are now working to appoint a team of sub-panellists, ensuring that membership reflects the full range of required expertise. These appointments will be announced in summer 2025.
    The sub-panel chairs and deputy chairs will lead their members through the criteria-setting phase, beginning later this year, and on through to the assessment phase in 2029 when sub-panellists will evaluate submissions from universities across the UK.
    Professor Lord, Head of the School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History, said: “I’m honoured to have been invited to serve as deputy chair for the Philosophy sub-panel.
    “REF is an important exercise in assessing the quality of UK university research and provides governments, funders and the public with confidence that research is world-class and impactful.
    “Leading this process is a great opportunity to serve the profession, and I am looking forward to getting started.”
    REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn said: “I’m delighted to welcome this outstanding group to lead the REF 2029 sub-panels. Their deep expertise and broad perspectives will be central to building an assessment process that is fair, rigorous, and trusted by the research community. We have been working in partnership with the sector throughout this process, and I’m grateful to everyone who expressed interest – your engagement is what strengthens the credibility and value of the REF across our research landscape.”
    The list of appointed chairs and deputy chairs can be found on the REF webpages.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sign-up to new Statistics Jersey alerts22 May 2025 ​Islanders are being encouraged to sign-up to receive email notifications about key statistics on Jersey’s economy and population as soon as they’re released. The email notification service is part of… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    22 May 2025

    ​Islanders are being encouraged to sign-up to receive email notifications about key statistics on Jersey’s economy and population as soon as they’re released. 

    The email notification service is part of Statistics Jersey’s new website, www.stats.je , launched earlier this month.  

    Until recently, Statistics Jersey published its reports and data on www.gov.je. Following amendments to the Statistics and Census (Jersey) Law, this information has been moved to www.stats.je.  

    Islanders who previously received email notifications about Statistics Jersey publications from www.gov.je will no longer receive these and will need to sign-up for notifications from www.stats.je . 

    The new website www.stats.je offers user-friendly statistical data compiled by Statistics Jersey as well as improved interactivity for policy makers, businesses and the general public.  Users can now see Jersey’s key indicators, such as the RPI and the House Price Index, at a glance as well as being able to explore interactive charts and download reports. ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland welcomes a new Mayor and Mayoress – Councillor Ehthesham Haque and Councillor Lynda Scanlan.

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Sunderland’s new Mayor and Mayoress were officially sworn in at the meeting of full council yesterday (Wednesday 21 May).

    They took over the ceremonial chains of office from the retiring Mayor and Consort, Councillor Allison Chisnall and Consort Mr Alistair Thomson.

    Sunderland’s new Mayor Councillor Ehthesham Haque is the cities youngest Mayor at 28-years-old and first Mayor of Asian descent.

    Cllr Haque has lived in Sunderland since the age of 10, after relocating with his family from London. A former pupil of Richard Avenue Primary and Thornhill Comprehensive, he continued his studies at Sunderland College, the University of Sunderland, and later Cambridge University.

    Elected as a Ward Councillor for Barnes in 2023, he works as a Civil Servant and has a strong passion for politics and community service. He served on the Health and Scrutiny Committee and was Governor at his former primary school prior to becoming Deputy Mayor.

    Cllr Haque lives with his wife and family in Sunderland and is committed to working hard for his constituents and the wider city.

    New Mayor, Cllr Haque said: “To have been elected Mayor of Sunderland is the proudest achievement of my life so far and I am honoured to serve the City of Sunderland. I am looking forward to celebrating the people of this city and its businesses, charities and communities.”

    Cllr Haque’s Chaplain will be The Reverend Canon Clare MacLaren, Provost of Sunderland Minster, High Street West, Sunderland.

    Sunderland’s new Mayoress Cllr Scanlan has served in both Millfield and Hendon Wards after first being elected councillor for Millfield in 2011. She also served as Mayor in 2018 to 2019 and is no stranger to mayoral duties.

    New Mayoress, Cllr Scanlan said: “I have been a member of council for over a decade, and I am thrilled to be elected Mayoress of Sunderland. There are so many fantastic opportunities coming up in the year ahead to showcase this city, and support events such as Active Sunderland sports events, the Christmas light switch on, and Remembrance Day parades.”

    The new Mayor and Mayoress, will be supporting Love, Amelia and Hopespring charities, which both support children and families.

    Also sworn in by full Council as Deputy Mayor for 2025-2026 is Councillor Melanie Thornton and the Deputy Mayoress will be Councillor Thornton’s mother, Carol Hopps.

    Cllr Thornton has lived in Sunderland’s Coalfield area all her life, growing up in East Rainton and Hetton. She now lives in Hetton Downs and supports local groups including Friends of Hetton Lyons Country Park and Coalfields Pride, which she chairs. Elected as a City Councillor for Copt Hill in 2019, she previously chaired the Planning and Highways Committee and is honoured to now serve as Deputy Mayor of Sunderland.

    The outgoing Mayor, Cllr Chisnall said: “It has been an honour and privilege to serve as Mayor of Sunderland. I have enjoyed working with Councillor Haque as Deputy Mayor and Councillor Scanlan. I wish the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor the best of luck for this coming year.

    “I will look back at my time in office with such fondness. Taking part in events like the Mayor’s Civic Ball, The Christmas Light Switch On, and VE Day has been an honour.

    “We are also incredibly grateful to have been able to raise around £20,000.00 for our chosen charities Castletown Scouts Group, Hylton Castle Trust, and The Royalty Theatre.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientists Develop Efficient Lasers the Size of a Speck of Dust

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Researchers HSE University in Saint Petersburg have found a way to create efficient microlasers with a diameter of only 5–8 micrometers. They operate at room temperature, do not require cooling, and can be built into microchips. The scientists used the whispering gallery effect to confine light and buffer layers to reduce energy leakage and stress. The approach is promising for integrating lasers into chips, sensors, and quantum technologies. Study published in “Letters to the Journal of Technical Physics”.

    The devices around us are becoming more compact without losing functionality. Smartphones solve problems that previously required a computer, and small cameras shoot almost like professional ones. Miniaturization has also affected lasers — sources of directed light radiation that are built into optical chips, sensors, medical devices, and communication systems.

    But it is not easy to reduce the size of a laser while maintaining its optical properties, efficiency and reliability. Developing a laser 5–8 micrometers in size (roughly the diameter of a red blood cell) requires complex calculations, and its production requires high precision. The main difficulty lies in the design of the laser itself. Unlike conventional light sources, lasers amplify radiation inside a resonator – a structure where light is repeatedly reflected and amplified. And the more compact the laser, the more difficult it is to contain the light inside it so that it is repeatedly reflected, amplified and does not lose energy – this is what is important for its stable operation.

    Another difficulty is defects in the material. Lasers use crystals that can amplify light. But when they are grown, microscopic defects often arise that reduce the efficiency of light generation. To minimize such disturbances, scientists carefully select the synthesis conditions and model the properties of the crystals in advance in different modes. At the same time, solving one problem often causes others to appear, and laser development becomes a constant search for balance.

    Scientists from the National Research University Higher School of Economics have created microlasers with a diameter of only 5–8 micrometers that operate at room temperature. They used a crystalline structure of indium, gallium, nitrogen, and aluminum compounds grown on a silicon substrate. To confine the light in a tiny space, the scientists used the whispering gallery effect.

    “This phenomenon is well known in acoustics: in some churches and cathedrals, you can whisper words near one wall, and the sound will be clearly heard near the opposite wall, despite the fact that under normal conditions the sound would not travel such a distance. A similar effect allows light to be reflected multiple times inside a disk microlaser, thereby minimizing losses,” explains the senior researcher. International Laboratory of Quantum Optoelectronics HSE University in St. Petersburg Eduard Moiseev.

    However, even under such conditions, light waves can partially escape into the substrate and be lost. To avoid this, the researchers added a stepped buffer layer. It compensates for mechanical stress between the silicon and nitride layers and reduces radiation leakage, allowing the laser to operate stably even at small sizes.

    “Our microlasers operate stably at room temperature, without cooling systems, which makes them convenient for real use. In the future, such devices will allow the creation of more compact and energy-efficient optoelectronic devices,” explains Natalia Kryzhanovskaya, head of the International Laboratory of Quantum Optoelectronics at the National Research University Higher School of Economics in St. Petersburg.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Foresight Transitions

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    Foresight Transitions was set up in 2017 and offers a unique level of research to assist decision making under deep uncertainty across the technology transitions, resource systems, environmental and climate change issues.

    Foresight Transitions provides bespoke analysis based on fundamental research around financial modelling, user perceptions, technological development and regulatory and policy risks in possible futures accommodating for deep uncertainty. Foresight Analysis conducts short bespoke consultancy engagements for confidential value testing of new commercial services for engineering and environmental sector organisations.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Ocean & Coastal Management (Science Direct)

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    Ocean & Coastal Management is the leading international journal dedicated to the study of all aspects of ocean and coastal management and governance. 

    Ocean & Coastal Management aims to advance management, policy and/or governance scholarship related to the sustainable development and conservation of the world’s oceans and coasts.It publishes rigorously peer-reviewed articles on ocean and coastal management and governance from the natural and social sciences, humanities and law, and design professions, and inter-/trans-disciplinary and co-designed research.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –