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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Spotlights How Trump Administration’s Attacks on Food Aid Programs Exacerbate Global Hunger 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, this week joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, for a forum entitled “The Role of Foreign Assistance in Supporting American Farmers and Protecting American Agriculture.” At the forum, Senator Welch examined how the Trump Administration’s continued attack on the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), other governmental agencies, and federally-supported foreign assistance organizations have exacerbated global hunger. 
    “What strikes me is that there’s a fair amount of humility in folks who work in an organization—through Republican and Democratic administrations—where you have this expertise because you understand that you have to have institutions and structures to be able to sustain a food delivery system. Everything from how farmers grow, to averting pests, to coming up with delivery mechanisms to get food to people who need it,” said Senator Welch.  
    “One of the things that’s so disturbing to me about what is happening and the way it’s happening is that we’re destroying the capacity at every step along the way. And it’s not as though you can flip a switch and those people who have expertise suddenly are going to come back.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s full remarks below: 

    “Vermont farmers—all farmers—they love to feed people…And now, it’s my understanding that we actually have food that is available for distribution, but it’s sitting in warehouses because of the cuts that have been made, so that the people who can take the food from the warehouse, outside of the doors of the warehouse, and put it on a table for hungry children to eat were not there—is that true?” asked Senator Welch.  
    Sarah Charles, Former Assistant to the Administrator for Humanitarian Assistance at USAID, testified: “It is certainly my understanding that the career staff that are left at USAID have been working furiously around the clock—even knowing that they’ve been fired—to find ways to get that food into the hands of partners that can use that food. The food is there…it has been bureaucratic process, after bureaucratic process, after bureaucratic process.”  
    Senators Welch, Shaheen, and Klobuchar were joined at the forum by Sens. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.).  
    Senator Welch has been a leading voice in pushing back against the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle and defund key federal agencies and food programs. Earlier this week, Senator Welch slammed the Trump Administration’s reckless request to rescind $9.4 billion in Fiscal Years (FY) 2024 and 2025 congressionally-appropriated funds, which provide vital support to Americans through public broadcasting and radio networks and promote U.S. global leadership.  
    Last month, Senator Welch led 29 of his Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution calling on the Trump Administration to use all diplomatic tools at its disposal to bring an end to the blockade of food and lifesaving humanitarian aid to address the needs of civilians in Gaza.   
    In February, Senator Welch took to the Senate floor to speak on President Trump and Elon Musk’s unconstitutional actions to dismantle USAID and called on Congress to protect the agency, which has played an indispensable role in protecting the interests, security, and reputation of the United States around the globe. Senator Welch also sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanding an urgent response to the baseless mass-firings of over 5,500 federal employees at USAID. 
    Senator Welch also joined colleagues in introducing the Foreign Assistance Accountability and Oversight Act, legislation to expand congressional oversight of foreign assistance decision-making by requiring the State Department’s Director of Foreign Assistance to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate. Last Congress, Senator Welch led the introduction of the Streamlining International Food Assistance Act to strengthen the United States’ ability to address global hunger by allowing USAID to use funds from the Food for Peace (FFP) food aid program to provide donations of U.S. commodities, alongside cash transfers and other forms of assistance, in an effort to better assist food insecure communities.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mahama bids farewell to United Kingdom (UK) envoy, discusses economy, security, regional ties

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

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    On Thursday, President John Dramani Mahama bid farewell to the outgoing British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, expressing gratitude for her four-year tenure and emphasising key areas for ongoing Ghana-United Kingdom cooperation.

    Mr Mahama lauded the High Commissioner for her “positive engagements” throughout her time in the country. He reflected on the long-standing historical relationship between Ghana and the UK, describing it as having been “so far so good”.

    The president, however, emphasised the mutual need for deeper economic partnerships and trade moving forward. He also noted the dynamic changes in the global landscape, including the diminishing nature of traditional development assistance and the necessity for developing countries like Ghana to strategically reposition themselves.

    President Mahama also acknowledged the UK’s significant support in counter-terrorism efforts, specifically commending cooperation in intelligence gathering and training.

    “We appreciate the partnership we have shared in the fight against terrorism,” President Mahama stated. We will continue to rely on the UK for help and cooperation in intelligence gathering and training to prepare ourselves in the event of any attack.”

    Shifting to regional matters, Mr Mahama updated the High Commissioner on his recent proactive engagements with leaders in the Sahelian countries, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. He pledged further diplomatic efforts aimed at rebuilding trust and improving relationships with these neighbours.

    He announced that the upcoming ECOWAS meeting on Sunday – the first since he assumed office – would place the issues concerning the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) at the top of its agenda.

    “I am going to have the opportunity to report to the rest of the ECOWAS leaders on trips I made to the three countries and share some of my perspectives about their grievances and how we can redefine relationships,” he told the outgoing envoy.

    On the domestic economic front, President Mahama provided an optimistic outlook, reporting progress with a strengthening Cedi, declining inflation, and renewed investor confidence.

    “I am happy to report that it’s going well,” he said, detailing the first quarter economic performance report. “The first quarter report on economic performance indicates a GDP growth of 5.3 per cent, inflation has reduced from 23 per cent to 18 per cent since January, and we hope to bring it down to 13 per cent by the end of the year, so that should create some relief for Ghanaians in terms of the cost of living and we will continue to maintain fiscal discipline.”

    For her part, High Commissioner Harriet Thompson, who has served in Ghana for over four years, expressed her gratitude for the warm support and cooperation she received during her tenure. She also acknowledged the successful implementation of various British-sponsored interventions during her time.

    – on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Acute Malnutrition Soars in South Sudan with Millions of Children at Risk following Aid Cuts

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

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    A deadly mix of conflict, climate change and poverty have pushed 2.3 million children aged under 5 in South Sudan into life threatening acute malnutrition, with rates soaring just months after foreign governments announced the slashing of funds to the world’s poorest countries, Save the Children said.

    Latest figures from the Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) – the leading global authority on the severity of hunger crises – show that in just over six months, the number of people living in the worst phase of acute hunger (IPC Phase 5) in South Sudan has doubled [1], and the percentage of the population living in crisis levels of acute hunger (IPC Phase 3 and above) has shot up from 47% to 57% – an increase of 21% [2].

    A lack of food, insufficient medical supplies in health facilities and major disease outbreaks including cholera, the number of acutely malnourished children under the age of five across South Sudan has increased from 2.1 million to 2.3 million – a 10.5% increase, representing an additional 218,000 malnourished children.
    Of the 80 counties in which data was collected, 62 – 78% recorded a general deterioration in acute malnutrition, according to the IPC.

    Children are always the most vulnerable in food crises and, without enough to eat and the right nutritional balance, they are at high risk of becoming acutely malnourished, said Save the Children.

    Malnutrition can cause stunting, impede mental and physical development, and increase the risk of contracting deadly diseases.

    All this comes as foreign aid cuts have brought lifesaving programmes across South Sudan – one of the world’s most aid-dependent countries – to a standstill.

    Chris Nyamandi, Save the Children Country Director in South Sudan, said:

    “When there is a lack of food, children’s bodies become a battleground. The impacts of malnutrition – stunting, impeded mental and physical development, and increased risk of contracting deadly diseases – can be life-shattering.

    “These latest figures are a cry to donors: please, see what happens to children when you let humanitarian crises take hold. Please, don’t leave the children of South Sudan behind. This is about survival for today – but it is also about hope for tomorrow, to build a better world.”

    Globally, one in five deaths among children aged under 5 are attributed to severe acute malnutrition, making it one of the top threats to child survival. Community-based programmes combining medical treatment and therapeutic foods, including a fortified peanut paste, have a 90% success rate.

    Earlier this year, Save the Children reported that at least 110,000 [3] severely acutely malnourished children supported by the aid agency in 10 countries, including South Sudan, could be left without access to life-saving ready-to-use emergency food and nutrition programmes as aid cuts hit supplies in coming months.

    The charity also reported that at least five children with cholera in South Sudan had died on an arduous journey to seek medical treatment, after aid cuts forced their local health services to close in the middle of a major outbreak of the deadly disease.

    Save the Children has worked in South Sudan since 1991, when it was part of Sudan. The child rights organisation provides children with access to education, healthcare and nutritional support, and families with food security and livelihoods assistance.  

    – on behalf of Save the Children.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kenya: Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale Leads Launch of Health Facility Digitalization

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

     in Garissa County, Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale presided over the launch of Health Facility Digitalization, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s journey toward a fully digitized health system.

    As part of the launch, 1,114 digital devices were delivered to public health facilities across Garissa County to bolster service delivery, improve record-keeping, and enhance accountability.

    Kenyans can now access their health records from anywhere in the country through the newly established Health Information Exchange (HIE) system—providing a secure, unified platform that captures both patient and provider data to support continuity of care.

    Hon. Duale emphasized the impact of digitization, noting that it has already led to the closure of 875 non-compliant facilities by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), and eliminated over 3 million fraudulent NHIF records. Only licensed and accredited facilities will now be empanelled under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

    The CS highlighted that through the Comprehensive Integrated Health Information System, the Ministry is digitizing patient records, prescriptions, and facility transactions—transforming the health system from the ground up by improving transparency, reducing fraud, and streamlining service delivery.

    While addressing the community at the close of the 5-day Free Medical Camp, Hon. Duale also:
    •Rallied the local population to register under the SHA and embrace Taifa Care, a major health sector reform to strengthen Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
    •Announced that 367 health workers in Garissa have already been trained on digital systems, with a target of training 1,700 across the countye.
    •Confirmed that over 74,000 digital devices will be distributed nationally to ensure public facilities are equipped to match the standards of the private sector.

    He further affirmed that Kenya’s Digital Health Superhighway will allow young people and families to register, access health services, and track care directly from their mobile phones—ensuring no one is left behind.

    – on behalf of Ministry of Health, Kenya.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Import of Shipping Vessel – Relaxation

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2025-26/55
    A.P. (DIR Series) Circular No. 07

    June 13, 2025

    All Authorised Dealer Category-I banks

    Madam / Sir,

    Import of Shipping Vessel – Relaxation

    Attention of Authorised Dealer (AD) Category – I banks is invited to Para C.1 of Master Direction – Import of Goods and Services (MD-Imports) dated January 01, 2016.

    2. With a view towards enhancing ease of doing business and keeping in view the sector-specific constraints, it has been decided to allow importers to make advance remittance for import of shipping vessel, without bank guarantee, or an unconditional, irrevocable standby Letter of Credit, up to USD 50 million, subject to the conditions mentioned in para-C.1.3.3 of MD-Imports, as applicable.

    3. AD banks may bring the contents of this circular to the notice of their constituents concerned.

    4. The directions contained in this circular have been issued under Section 10(4) and Section 11(1) of the FEMA, 1999 (42 of 1999) and are without prejudice to permissions / approvals, if any, required under any other law.

    Yours faithfully,

    (N. Senthil Kumar)
    Chief General Manager

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with President Macron of France and Chancellor Merz of Germany: 13 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM call with President Macron of France and Chancellor Merz of Germany: 13 June 2025

    The Prime Minister’s call with the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, and the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, this morning.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, and the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, this morning following the developments in the Middle East overnight. 

    The leaders discussed the long-held grave concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme, and called on all sides to refrain from further escalation that could further destabilise the region.

    The leaders reaffirmed Israel’s right to self-defence, and agreed that a diplomatic resolution, rather than military action, was the way forward.

    They looked forward to speaking again soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth celebrates Better Transport Week

    Source: City of Plymouth

    There will be a chance to look around one of Plymouth’s new electric buses on Tuesday 17 June as part of an information event celebrating Better Transport Week.

    The annual national celebration of sustainable travel is organised by Campaign for Better Transport and this year’s theme is connecting communities and bringing people together.

    In support of the week the Council, Plymouth Citybus and Stagecoach South West (as representatives of the enhanced bus partnership) will be joined by organisations including Access Plymouth, Bikespace, British Cycling, Plymouth Active and Sustrans for an all-day event in the city centre showcasing some of the many sustainable transport options in Plymouth.

    The event, being held on the Armada Way piazza from 9.45am to 4pm will feature a ribbon-cutting on one of the new Plymouth Citybus zero-emission electric double-deckers at 10am before members of the public get the chance to hop aboard and look around.

    The buses, which will enter service this summer, are the result of a partnership project led by Plymouth Citybus, part of the Go-Ahead Group, with the support of Plymouth City Council, Cornwall Council, and the Department for Transport. The project will replace almost half of the Plymouth Citybus fleet with brand new electric vehicles.

    Richard Stevens, Managing Director of Plymouth Citybus and Go Cornwall Bus, will cut the ribbon with Councillor John Stephens, Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport. They will be joined by representatives from Campaign for Better Transport.

    Councillor Stephens said: “Better Transport Week is a great opportunity to find out more about the many greener travel options in Plymouth and try some out. With a full week’s programme of activities there really is something for everyone – whether you prefer walking, cycling, buses, ferries or trains. Come along on the 17th to see what’s on offer and take a look around the new electric buses.”

    Richard Stevens added: “Better Transport Week is a valuable moment to shine a light on the importance of sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking travel for our communities. As someone deeply committed to the future of our city, I believe better, cleaner transport is essential to Plymouth’s continued growth and wellbeing.

    “We’re proud to serve a city that values clean air, access to green spaces, and a strong sense of community. The introduction of our new electric buses is just one part of our ongoing commitment to delivering quieter, cleaner, and more accessible journeys. It’s about protecting what makes Plymouth special and connecting people to the lives they lead every day.”

    Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said: “Good public transport networks, shared travel, walking, wheeling and cycling help connect us to the people we love, the things we need and the places that matter. That’s why we are delighted that Plymouth CityBus, Plymouth City Council and the Plymouth and South East Cornwall Zero Emission Bus Regional Area partners are using the week to launch Plymouth’s new electric bus fleet, which will help improve public transport journeys across the city and beyond.”

    There will be various stands at the event, where people can get travel planning advice, find out more about The Big Green Trail (which returns on Saturday 21 June), learn about led walks, bike rides and cycle maintenance, pick up walking and cycling maps and much more.

    Other events and activities will be taking place around Plymouth throughout the week. To view the full programme see our Better Transport Week page.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Belarusian Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern over the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    MINSK, June 13 (Xinhua) — Belarus is deeply concerned about the new round of military escalation between Israel and Iran and reports of civilian deaths, including children. The corresponding statement by the Belarusian Foreign Ministry in connection with the escalation of the situation in the Middle East was published on Friday.

    “The forceful scenario of the conflict poses a serious threat to regional stability and security, carries the risk of a humanitarian catastrophe and may have unpredictable global consequences,” the Belarusian Foreign Ministry noted.

    The Belarusian Foreign Ministry called on the parties involved to exercise restraint, responsibility and avoidance of actions that could negatively impact the political and diplomatic efforts of the international community aimed at a comprehensive settlement of the situation in the region. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 9 investment projects in light industry are planned to be implemented in Kazakhstan this year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Astana, June 13 (Xinhua) — Nine investment projects in the light industry will be launched in Kazakhstan, Kazinform news agency reported on Friday, citing a statement by Deputy Chairman of the Industry Committee Mukhamed Andakov at the second congress of the light industry of Kazakhstan.

    According to him, nine investment projects are planned for implementation in 2025, creating about 600 jobs.

    Over the past five years, 3,000 new jobs have been created in Kazakhstan’s light industry and more than 40 projects have been launched. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kyrgyzstan’s economy continued to grow in January-May — National Statistical Committee

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BISHKEK, June 13 /Xinhua/ — According to preliminary estimates, Kyrgyzstan’s GDP amounted to 573.1 billion soms (about 6.55 billion US dollars) in January-May of this year, up 12.3 percent from the same period in 2024, the National Statistical Committee of the republic reported on Friday.

    According to statistics, the growth in construction volumes was 48.3 percent, wholesale and retail trade – 10.8 percent, and agriculture – 3 percent.

    According to the agency, Kyrgyzstan’s foreign trade turnover in January-April 2025 amounted to 4,592.4 million US dollars and decreased by 11.7 percent compared to January-April last year. At the same time, export deliveries decreased by 8.2 percent, and import receipts decreased by 12.3 percent. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Along the Ancient Silk Road, Xi Jinping Forges New Ties with Central Asia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) — In the summer sun-drenched Xi’an, China’s ancient capital, six pomegranate trees stand gracefully near the site of the first China-Central Asia Summit in May 2023, their branches hanging low and laden with fruit.

    Planted two years ago by Chinese President Xi Jinping and the leaders of five Central Asian countries, this living avenue serves as a vivid testimony to the increasingly close and dynamic ties between China and Central Asia.

    Building on past achievements, Xi and his Central Asian counterparts will gather in the Kazakh city of Astana later this month for a second summit to ensure even closer cooperation on trade, security and connectivity in the heart of Eurasia.

    FORMATION OF A NEW PARADIGM

    The Xi’an summit in 2023 was the first ever meeting of heads of state under the China-Central Asia cooperation mechanism. In the embrace of the ancient city, they agreed to hold the summit every two years, alternately in China and Central Asia.

    Last year, the mechanism was further institutionalized with the establishment of a secretariat in Xi’an, the capital of Xi’s home province of Shaanxi.

    The Chinese leader attaches great importance to China’s relations with the region. In his opinion, Central Asia is at a strategic crossroads, linking East and West, North and South.

    “Developing friendly and cooperative relations with Central Asian countries is a priority of China’s foreign policy,” Xi Jinping said during his first visit to Central Asia since being elected as China’s president in 2013.

    Since then, he has visited the region eight times, deepening partnerships bilaterally and through platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia.

    Today, Central Asia is the only region in the world where every country is a strategic partner of China. According to Xi Jinping, these partnerships have paved a new path of good-neighborliness and mutually beneficial cooperation, creating a new paradigm of international relations.

    The main event of the Xi’an summit was the signing of the Xi’an Declaration, in which the Chinese president and the leaders of the five Central Asian countries promised to work together to build a closer China-Central Asia community with a shared future.

    This promise is in line with the core idea of Xiplomacy’s diplomatic strategy: creating a community with a shared destiny for humanity. Notably, this idea has already been fully realized at the bilateral level in Central Asia.

    Sheradil Baktygulov, Director of the Institute of World Politics of Kyrgyzstan, noted that the common political will of Xi Jinping and the leaders of Central Asian countries is the key to the sustainable development of Chinese-Central Asian cooperation.

    “This cooperation not only strengthens bilateral ties, but also lays the foundation for a new model of multilateral cooperation in the Eurasian region,” he added.

    The Chinese leader’s strong personal rapport with Central Asian leaders is helping to strengthen these ties. At the Xi’an summit, Xi Jinping hailed Tajik President Emomali Rahmon as an “old friend.” During talks with Xi, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev called him his “dear brother.”

    Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, also an experienced sinologist, arrived in Xi’an on his 70th birthday. Xi told him: “Your visit on such a special occasion speaks volumes about the strength of our bilateral relations and confirms your unique bond with China.”

    REVIVAL OF THE GREAT SILK ROAD

    “Start loading!” Xi Jinping and K.-Zh. Tokayev jointly gave this command at the launch ceremony of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route China-Europe, which took place in July 2024 in Astana.

    The event marked the formal establishment of a multi-dimensional connectivity network combining roads, railways, airlines and pipelines to better link Asia to Europe via the Caspian Sea. The network is expected to become a vibrant artery under the Belt and Road Initiative.

    While the ancient Silk Road witnessed vibrant trade and cultural exchanges between China and Central Asia, Xi Jinping sees the region as an important partner in modern Belt and Road cooperation.

    In September 2013, also in Astana, the Chinese President gave a historic speech at Nazarbayev University, where he first outlined his vision for the construction of the “Silk Road Economic Belt” – a key component of the Belt and Road Initiative.

    “We can actively discuss the best ways to improve cross-border transport infrastructure,” Xi said, “and work to build a transport network connecting East, West and South Asia to promote economic development and travel in the region.”

    In the years since, the Chinese leader’s vision has steadily been realized. For example, late last year, the Kyrgyz border city of Jalal-Abad hosted a ceremony to mark the start of construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. In a congratulatory message, Xi Jinping called for the railway to become a “new demonstration project” for Belt and Road cooperation.

    The railway will start at the ancient Silk Road junction of Kashgar (Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Northwest China), pass into Kyrgyzstan via the Torugart Pass, reach Jalal-Abad and end in Andijan in eastern Uzbekistan.

    According to Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, this railway is not just a transport corridor, but an important strategic bridge connecting the countries of the East and West.

    Cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative has effectively boosted trade, travel, and exchanges in the region. In 2024, trade between China and Central Asian countries reached a record US$94.8 billion, driven in part by the booming cross-border e-commerce. China is now the region’s top trading partner and a major source of investment.

    In 2014, Tajikistan became the first country to sign a memorandum of understanding with China on the joint development of the Silk Road Economic Belt. Since then, cooperation has yielded tangible results, many of which have been personally supported by Xi Jinping, ranging from the construction of new highways and power plants to new iconic buildings in cities.

    Tajikistan is also home to Central Asia’s first “Lu Ban Workshop” – a Chinese vocational education center that has already trained more than 1,500 students in practical skills in engineering, architecture, water management and environmental protection, cultivating talent for the country’s future development.

    During his state visit to Dushanbe in 2024, Xi Jinping told Emomali Rahmon: “I saw a more prosperous Tajikistan.”

    WEAVING THE “CULTURAL CANVAS”

    In the fall of 2022, during a visit to the legendary Silk Road city of Samarkand, Xi Jinping presented Uzbekistan President Sh. Mirziyoyev with a special gift: a miniature of Khiva, an ancient outpost on the Silk Road.

    Khiva is the first cultural heritage project in Central Asia supported by China. Years of restoration work led by Chinese specialists have given the ancient city a new look.

    “The project to preserve and restore historical monuments in Khiva, launched during my visit to Samarkand in 2013, has been successfully completed, further enhancing the charm of this ancient city,” Xi wrote in an opinion piece ahead of his 2022 visit to Uzbekistan.

    During his previous visit to the country in 2016, Xi met with Chinese experts working on the project. “Make sure the cultural relics are well protected,” he urged them.

    Since then, joint archaeological research by scientists from China and Central Asia has spread across the region, including the ancient city of Rakhat in Kazakhstan and the ancient Buddhist temple at Krasnaya Rechka in Kyrgyzstan.

    Xi Jinping has repeatedly stressed that the friendship between China and Central Asia has a long history. He has repeatedly referred to the life story of Zhang Qian, the Han Dynasty envoy who traveled west more than 2,100 years ago and opened the way for lasting friendship and exchanges between China and the region. He has also stressed the need to “build on our traditional friendship.”

    During his state visit to Kazakhstan in 2024, Xi, together with President K.-Z. Tokayev, opened the Kazakhstan branch of Beijing Language and Culture University, the same university where the Kazakh president studied Chinese in the 1980s. Xi expressed hope that the establishment of the branch would enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples, especially between the younger generations.

    During his visit, Xi met with a group of schoolchildren who greeted him in Chinese and sang a Chinese song. Some of them spoke of their dream of attending Tsinghua University, the Chinese leader’s alma mater.

    “I also wish with all my heart that you will be able to enter good universities in the future. And we will be glad if you continue your education in China,” the Chinese President said with a smile.

    Commenting on the broader impact of such exchanges, Uzbek political commentator Sharofiddin Tulaganov noted that under the cooperation mechanism between China and Central Asia, mutual learning between civilizations will be greatly expanded.

    In today’s complex international environment, he added, such institutionalized humanitarian exchanges will provide valuable cultural impetus to efforts to maintain regional peace and promote common development. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Completes 2025 Article IV Mission to Mali

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 13, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • Mali’s economy is grappling with major headwinds, including food insecurity and security threats, frequent climate shocks, external financing constraints and an uncertain economic outlook. Despite these challenges, the economy is showing resilience and projected to continue to improve over the medium-term.
    • The authorities remain committed to a 3 percent fiscal deficit, in line with the WAEMU target to maintain fiscal sustainability.
    • The authorities have launched an ambitious long-term development plan “Vision 2063”, accompanied by a National Strategy for Emergence and Sustainable Development 2024-2033, to achieve high, sustainable, and inclusive growth. Its success hinges on the implementation of sound macroeconomic policies and making decisive progress on structural reforms.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team, led by
    Ms. Wenjie Chen, visited Bamako from June 9 to 13, 2025, to conduct the 2025 Article IV consultation with the Malian authorities. The team held productive discussions with the authorities and other stakeholders on recent economic developments, the outlook, and medium-term policies to support macroeconomic stability and inclusive growth.

    At the end of the visit, Ms. Chen issued the following statement:

    “Mali’s economy has shown some resilience despite significant headwinds. Economic growth is estimated at 4.7 percent in 2024 unchanged form 2023, due to a combination of factors, including an electricity crisis, flooding and lower gold production. The government’s fiscal deficit declined to 2.6 percent of GDP in 2024 driven by robust revenue mobilization, exceptional payments form mining and telecom companies and tighter control of current spending amid constrained financing. Tight financing conditions in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), and the absence of external budget support resulted in high borrowing costs for the Government.

    “Real GDP growth is projected to increase to 5.0 percent in 2025, weighed down by reduced output from the shutdown of the largest gold mine and ongoing security risks. Contingent on resumption of full mining activities, growth is expected to rebound to 5.4 percent in 2026. The fiscal deficit is forecast to widen to 3.4 percent in 2025, driven in part by government spending to mitigate the impact of the flooding. However, the outlook remains uncertain, with considerable downside risks.

    “Fiscal policy should prioritize achieving fiscal sustainability, particularly by converging toward WAEMU’s 3-percent fiscal deficit ceiling. Key priorities include strengthening domestic revenue mobilization through broadening the tax base, including from the mining sector, and strengthening the revenue and customs administration. Moreover, the authorities should focus on improving spending efficiency while safeguarding public investment and protecting vulnerable households.

    “Reducing domestic policy uncertainty and advancing structural reforms are essential to unlocking Mali’s growth potential. Strengthening fiscal governance, improving public financial management, addressing vulnerabilities in State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), and enhancing their oversight—particularly in the electricity utility, Energie de Mali—are critical. Greater policy stability and transparent regulatory frameworks are crucial for attracting foreign investment.

    “The staff team thanks the authorities and other counterparts for their close collaboration and productive discussions.”

    The team met with the Minister of Economy and Finance, Mr. Alousséni Sanou, the Minister of Justice Mr. Mamoudou Kassogue, and the National Director of the BCEAO for Mali, Mr. Baréma Bocoum, senior staff of the main ministries and government agencies, development partners, and the private sector.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Tatiana Mossot

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/13/pr-25196-mali-imf-staff-completes-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadians can apply for the Canada Disability Benefit on June 20

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    First payments to be issued in July

    June 13, 2025              Gatineau, Quebec              Employment and Social Development Canada  

    Today, the Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, announced that persons with disabilities will be able to apply for the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) as of June 20, 2025.

    First payments will begin in July 2025 for applications received and approved by June 30, 2025. Canadians will be able to apply through barrier-free, accessible ways: online, in person at a Service Canada office, or by phone.

    Persons with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64 can apply for the benefit if they have qualified for the disability tax credit (DTC) and meet the benefit’s other eligibility requirements, including having filed their 2024 income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency. For those who have a spouse or common-law partner, their partner must also have filed their 2024 income tax return to be eligible.

    The federal government will send letters to eligible Canadians inviting them to apply.

    To support individuals with the application process, a number of community-based organizations across Canada will provide accessible, individualized navigation services to disability programs and benefits, including the DTC and CDB. Applicants can also now use the newly launched benefit estimator tool to find out how much they may qualify to receive each month.  

    This new benefit reflects the federal government’s commitment to improving financial security for Canadians living with disabilities. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar Announces House Democratic Caucus Poverty Task Force as House Republicans Slash Basic Needs Programs

    Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    June 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar announced the re-launch of the Democratic Caucus Task Force on Poverty. Chaired by Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), the Task Force will focus on solutions to help working families meet their basic needs and fight back against the extreme budget cuts passed by House Republicans, which rip away programs that millions of Americans rely on. 

    “House Democrats know that America’s strength comes from the promise that every person has the chance to succeed if they work hard and follow the rules,” said Chairman Aguilar. “Instead of building on those values, House Republicans are pushing an extreme budget that attacks the very programs working families rely on. Slashing food assistance, Medicaid and Social Security—all to give massive tax breaks for billionaires—will only make it harder for families to meet their basic needs at a time when prices are soaring and the economy is crashing. I am grateful to Rep. Watson Coleman’s leadership as our Caucus stands united in our fight against these cruel proposals that will only push more families into poverty.”  

    “In the wealthiest country in the world, there should be a floor beneath which we allow no person, no child, no family to fall. I look forward to working with the Poverty Taskforce to construct this floor and ensure all Americans have the opportunity to thrive,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “I look forward to working with Caucus Chair Aguilar, our vice chairs, and our entire Democratic Caucus on promoting an economy that works for everyone, not just the ultra-wealthy, and creating an environment of fairness. It’s time we expand the conversation around the term “poverty” beyond just those on or below the federal poverty line. The United States has the resources and opportunity to end poverty once and for all. I’m ready to work with my colleagues towards accomplishing just that.”

    Chair Aguilar and Chair Watson Coleman also announced the Poverty Task Force Vice Chairs, who will focus on the following priorities: 

    • Rep. Sara Jacobs, Vice Chair on Economic Mobility
    • Rep. Jim McGovern, Vice Chair on Hunger
    • Rep. Bobby Scott, Vice Chair on Education and Workforce Development
    • Rep. Sylvia Garcia, Vice Chair on Housing and Transportation
    • Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Vice Chair on Health Care 

    ###

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Liquid Bicarbonate Concentrate Recall: Nipro Removes MedicaLyte Liquid Bicarbonate Concentrate due to Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This recall involves removing devices from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it.
    Affected Product

    MedicaLyte Liquid Bicarbonate Concentrate – 45x Proportioning (BC+201)

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)/Model: 00817411022824

    What to Do

    On June 2, Nipro sent all affected customers an updated letter recommending the following actions:

    Do not use any MedicaLyte Liquid Bicarbonate Concentrate.
    Stop dispensing and distributing product and quarantine all lots.
    Isolate identified devices in possession.
    If the affected lots were further distributed, please forward the notification and report the consignees.

    Reason for Recall
    Nipro stated that they received reports of concerning visual irregularities in some product jugs. Returned units were sent to a third-party laboratory for analysis, where bacterial and fungal particles were identified.
    Risks associated with the use of contaminated dialysate includes infections, treatment disruptions, sepsis, and possible death. Potential long-term health consequences include chronic infections which may cause or contribute to organ damage and a weakened immune system. If the contaminated product is used, the hemodialysis machine will need to be disinfected following the dialysis machine manufacturer’s recommendations.
    Nipro has received reports of one serious injury and one death.
    Device Use
    Dialysate is part of a hemodialysis system that removes waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the body in patients with kidney failure. 
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this recall should contact Nipro at Nipro4621@sedgwick.com or 1-877-546-0126.
    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

    How do I report a problem?
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. 

    Content current as of:
    06/13/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Names Kurt Hohl as Chief Accountant

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Kurt Hohl, with nearly 40 years of accounting and auditing experience, has been named Chief Accountant, effective July 7, 2025. Acting Chief Accountant Ryan Wolfe will return to his role as Chief Accountant in the Division of Enforcement. 

    “Kurt is an experienced accountant with deeply technical knowledge and international experience, and we are lucky he has decided to return to the SEC,” said SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. “This is an important role. Given that I served with Kurt previously, I know firsthand that his integrity, along with his skills, will benefit our markets and investors.”

    “I want to thank Ryan for his service as Acting Chief Accountant and am pleased that he will continue serving in the Division of Enforcement.”

    Mr. Hohl most recently founded Corallium Advisors, which helps businesses navigate the complexities of auditing, regulatory compliance, risk management, and initial public offerings. Before that, he spent 26 years as a partner at Ernst & Young (EY) in a variety of roles. His final EY role was as global deputy vice-chair of EY’s Global Assurance Professional Practice. In that role he was responsible for the operation and oversight of the technical, regulatory, risk, and quality oversight functions of EY’s global professional practice organization — a team of more than 1,400 professionals. Mr. Hohl previously served at the SEC from 1989 to 1997, rising to Associate Chief Accountant in the Division of Corporation Finance. There he authored what became the Financial Reporting Manual, a primary guide for the SEC accounting staff and practitioners in the application of the federal securities laws. He began his professional career at Deloitte Haskins & Sells.

    Mr. Hohl received a B.B.S. in accounting from James Madison University and is a certified public accountant in Virginia.

    “I’m pleased to come back to the SEC along with Chairman Atkins,” said Mr. Hohl. “This is a pivotal time for our capital markets, and I look forward to working with the dedicated public servants in the Office of the Chief Accountant to advance accounting and auditing policies that reinforce investor confidence, enhance transparency, and support innovation.”

    Mr. Wolfe has served as Acting Chief Accountant since January 2025. He concurrently has been serving as Chief Accountant of the Division of Enforcement and has previously served as Senior Associate Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In a letter to the Senate, nearly 900 state and local elected leaders oppose extreme cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP and public services

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    The letter reads in part, “As government leaders, we understand the importance of rooting out fraud, waste and abuse to keep public services strong, but this plan fails to do that. Instead, it would rip the very fabric of our nation’s social safety net wide open to give the wealthiest people tax breaks they don’t need. Meanwhile, veterans, seniors, children, people with disabilities, and all working people will suffer.”

    We, the undersigned state and local officials, are writing to express our opposition to the reconciliation bill (H.R. 1) and ask you to protect the public services our communities depend on. By cutting Medicaid, SNAP and other critical public services, this bill threatens to destabilize state and local budgets and force deep cuts across the board that will diminish public services and hurt working families nationwide – all to give billionaires tax breaks.

    Medicaid accounts for the largest portion of federal funding to state budgets and is the largest funder of long-term care services in the U.S. Without this critical funding and due to other provisions in the bill, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates roughly 15 million people will lose their health coverage and become uninsured by 2034. The cuts outlined in H.R. 1 will also mean nursing homes, hospitals, home care and other critical health care services will disappear, leading to job losses in the health care sector. As people lose Medicaid coverage, hospitals and providers will face an estimated $48 billion in uncompensated care costs. Altogether, this will place an incredible strain on states, cities and towns and other local governments and will cost lives.

    Moreover, the bill’s proposed work requirements for Medicaid beneficiaries will impose huge costs on states, including adding compliance systems and a need for greater staffing at agencies that are already understaffed. Experience in Arkansas and Georgia shows that work requirements do not result in more people working. They actually lead to huge losses in coverage for workers due to red tape. The reality is these provisions will result in cuts and needlessly harm our country’s most vulnerable populations who need Medicaid to live.

    The bill also shifts $300 billion in costs to states and local governments for both the benefits and administrative costs of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This provision threatens the food security of more than 40 million Americans, including one in five children. There will be no way for state governments to cover all these new expenses without making cuts to other critical services like our schools or roads.

    The bill also automatically triggers historic cuts to Medicare, which will spell disaster for seniors. As critical health care services are ripped away from seniors, their families will struggle to care for them. That will place huge costs on our workforce, our economies and our communities.

    Taken together, the cuts that are included in H.R. 1 will place an impossible burden on states. Forced to make up for the massive shortfalls in federal funding, every sector of our state and local economies will suffer, from health care to higher education, public safety to public schools. Services that our communities rely on will be slashed; and the people who provide them may be furloughed or laid off.

    As government leaders, we understand the importance of rooting out fraud, waste and abuse to keep public services strong, but this plan fails to do that. Instead, it would rip the very fabric of our nation’s social safety net wide open to give the wealthiest people tax breaks they don’t need. Meanwhile, veterans, seniors, children, people with disabilities and all working people will suffer.

    America’s state and local elected leaders urge you to vote against this damaging and reckless plan. The health, safety, and well-being of our communities are too important.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Last Month in the Field – May

    Source: Frontex

    The month of May marked a series of important developments for Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, reflecting its ongoing commitment to security, innovation, and cooperation at Europe’s borders. From participating in the EU’s flagship space event to piloting advanced surveillance technology and supporting thousands of voluntary returns, the Agency continued to deliver concrete results across its key missions.  

    Frontex took part in EU Space Days, held this year in Gdańsk, Poland. The event brought together more than 700 participants, including senior EU officials, policy experts, industry leaders, and innovators from across Europe. As the EU’s leading forum for space policy and innovation, the event focused on advancing the strategic use of space technologies to meet Europe’s security, economic, and environmental goals. 

    Frontex highlighted how satellite-based technologies are being used to strengthen border management and enhance situational awareness. Satellite-based navigation and communication systems play a critical role in tracking and operating assets—on land, at sea, and in the air—including in remote and difficult-to-access areas, where staying connected is essential.  

    The Agency currently provides 17 Copernicus-based products to EU Member States, supporting the monitoring of cross-border crime, irregular migration, and other key risks. These services enable national authorities to respond more effectively and in a timely manner. 

    Frontex is also advancing the integration of data from multiple sensors, a process known as data fusion, to build a more robust surveillance architecture. This supports early detection of threats and improved coordination among operational partners. Participation in EU Space Days underscored the growing importance of innovation in strengthening border security and showcased Frontex’s role in delivering cutting-edge, technology-driven solutions. 

    On 26 May, Frontex and the Bulgarian Border Police launched a new pilot project testing the use of long-endurance tactical drones for aerial surveillance of external borders. The initiative is part of Frontex’s broader strategy to operationalise next-generation European Border Surveillance capabilities. 

    The drones are equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, offering real-time surveillance that significantly enhances situational awareness. The project aims to evaluate the drones’ operational performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness while reducing the logistical burden on ground teams. “This is not just about seeing more—it’s about seeing smarter,” said Hans Leijtens, Executive Director of Frontex. “By working together with Bulgaria and leading industry partners, we are taking concrete steps to future-proof European border security.” 

    The pilot involves three contracted companies—Global SAT, Shield AI, and DAT CON—which will deliver aerial surveillance services under a company-owned, company-operated model. The drones will support the detection of irregular border crossings and cross-border crimes, helping national authorities act quickly and effectively. A live demonstration of the new technology will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, on 4 and 5 June 2025, bringing together representatives from EU Member States, EU agencies, and partner countries to observe the system in action and discuss its future potential. 

    Since March, Frontex has facilitated the voluntary return of more than 1,000 Syrian nationals from 14 EU Member States, following the political transition in Syria after the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. This development has led many displaced Syrians to seek a return to their home country after years of conflict. 

    Frontex plays a critical role in supporting Member States by ensuring that all returnees are fully informed of their rights and the voluntary nature of their decision. Each return is carried out in line with EU legislation and international standards for the protection of fundamental rights. 

    “Returning home is a deeply human aspiration,” said Executive Director Hans Leijtens. “For many, it means reuniting with loved ones and rebuilding lives. We are proud to support this process in full respect of dignity and choice.” These returns are part of the EU’s broader commitment to humane and voluntary repatriation. Frontex also assists in pre-return counselling, coordination, and soon, reintegration support through an expanded European Reintegration Programme (EURP), now including Syria.

    In a milestone for Frontex operations, one of the Agency’s surveillance aircraft flew for the first time directly from a non-EU country. The flight took off from Tirana International Airport in Albania and covered both Joint Operations in Albania and Montenegro during a single mission. Until now, Frontex aircraft had only operated from within EU territory. This development marks a new chapter in border cooperation, enabling earlier detection of irregular migration, better prevention of cross-border crime, and improved coordination of Search and Rescue operations. Real-time images captured by the aircraft are shared with national authorities in Albania and Montenegro, as well as with Frontex Headquarters in Warsaw, allowing for rapid and informed decision-making. 

    Frontex participated in the Barracuda 2025 exercise in Sicily, a joint maritime training operation led by the Italian Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of Malta. The exercise covered critical areas including search and rescue, maritime monitoring, environmental protection, and accident response. 

    Supported by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA), the training was a strong demonstration of cross-border cooperation and operational readiness. Frontex teams contributed operational knowledge and helped ensure seamless coordination across participating agencies. Exercises like Barracuda strengthen Europe’s collective ability to protect lives at sea and respond swiftly to maritime emergencies.

    This month also saw other important milestones: 

    • In Leixões, Portugal, the deployment of an Advanced Level Document Officer (ALDO) helped strengthen national capacity in detecting document fraud, thanks to close cooperation between Frontex and Portuguese authorities. 
    • In Montenegro, a joint operation led to the seizure of 200 kilograms of illegal cut tobacco. With the support of vigilant Frontex officers and the swift action of Montenegrin authorities, this operation highlighted the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in combatting smuggling. 

    May 2025 demonstrated the full scope of Frontex’s mission: leveraging innovation, supporting Member States, and strengthening cooperation across borders. With continued investments in technology, partnerships, and people, the Agency remains committed to helping build a secure and well-managed European border system. Frontex will continue to work side by side with EU Member States and partners—on land, at sea, and now even from space—to keep Europe’s borders strong, secure, and future-ready.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Hamas says Iran ‘paying the price’ for supporting Gaza militants

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas said Iran, its strategic ally, was “paying the price” for supporting militant groups in Gaza in their decades-long struggle against Israel, after Israel launched large-scale attacks on Friday against Iran.

    Hamas leaders have repeatedly thanked Iran for its military and financial support to the group in its fight against Israel, including during the ongoing war that erupted in October 2023.

    “Iran is today paying the price for its steadfast positions in support of Palestine and its resistance, and its adherence to its independent national decision,” Hamas said in a statement.

    Tehran has vowed retaliation for Israel’s early morning attack on Iranian military and nuclear facilities that killed several top commanders. Israel said it was working to intercept 100 drones that were launched by Iran, but had not reached Israel.

    Hamas armed wing spokesperson Abu Ubaida said in a post on Telegram later on Friday that the group would stand by Iran in its conflict against Israel.

    “The Zionist enemy is completely deluded if it thinks that these treacherous strikes can undermine the fronts of resistance or stabilize the pillars of this fragile entity in the region,” he said.

    “On the contrary, it continues to make successive strategic mistakes that will bring it closer to its inevitable demise, God willing.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ASEAN Audit Committee Convenes its 50th Meeting

    Source: ASEAN

    On 13 June 2025, the 50th Meeting of the ASEAN Audit Committee (AAC) was held at the Nusantara Hall of the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, the AAC discussed matters pertaining to internal and external audit, risk management, and governance of the ASEAN Secretariat. H.E. Dato’ Seri Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi, the Auditor General of Malaysia, chaired the meeting. Delegations from the ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste as an Observer, participated in the annual meeting. The delegates engaged in a meaningful exchange of perspectives and best practices to further strengthen the ASEAN Secretariat’s internal control, risk management, governance, accountability and transparency.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Oxford businesses to receive goodwill payments for Botley Road disruption

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Oxford businesses to receive goodwill payments for Botley Road disruption

    Network Rail will write to the affected local businesses that qualify to receive a share of up to £850,000 this week.

    Credit: Network Rail

    • government confirms up to £850,000 in payments to Oxfordshire businesses impacted by Network Rail disruption
    • some small, local businesses most impacted by delayed works may be eligible to receive one-off, goodwill payments to acknowledge disruption caused
    • Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, visits site to see progress on the Botley Road works – on track to be fully completed next summer 

    Some small businesses in Oxford most affected by works at Botley Road station may be eligible to receive goodwill payments, following the government today (13 June 2025) confirming up to £850,000 of Network Rail funding to acknowledge the local disruption.   The funding was confirmed today as the Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, visited the site to see Network Rail’s progress on the major improvements to the city’s railway station and Botley Road as part of the Oxford Station Enhancements Project.  

    The one-off goodwill payments are being offered in recognition of the disruption resulting from delays to the scheme, which businesses can apply to Network Rail for.

    Network Rail will write to the affected businesses this week who qualify for this financial support and a process is being developed to take discussions further.

    However, following a reset of the project in January, progress has been made and Network Rail are on track to deliver the new cycle and walkway in August 2025 and will fully reopen Botley Road in August 2026. 

    Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, said: 

    I’m pleased that Network Rail can now offer payments to those eligible small, local businesses affected and while it can’t undo all the hardship businesses have faced, it recognises the trouble the delays have caused. 

    I’m glad the project is now on track. I will continue to hold Network Rail to account and engage with the local community.  

    I look forward to the scheme being completed, so Oxford can benefit from more frequent and accessible transport links to boost growth in this bustling city.

    Following delays owing to the discovery of a large Victorian arch under Botley Road and difficulties moving water pipes, Network Rail launched a new plan to keep the project moving forward early this year.  

    Since the reset, the project has hit key milestones, including the early completion of a new clean water pipe by Thames Water. The next big step is to divert the sewer system, which is on track to finish later this year. 

    Marcus Jones, Network Rail’s Western Route Director, said: 

    We know the delays to this project have been frustrating, and we’re sorry for the disruption they’ve caused. The good news is that the project is now firmly back on track, and we’re making strong progress. We’re committed to keeping the community informed as we deliver a safer, more accessible Oxford station for everyone.

    Network Rail has been keeping the community informed through monthly public events and business workshops, offering updates and support. New banners, posters and digital screens have also been put up around the station and Botley Road to keep everyone updated and remind people that local businesses are open as usual. The free Botley Flyer bus service now runs 7 days a week, helping people get to the city centre and extra security measures have been put in place to keep pedestrians safe. 

    Additional support includes new disabled drop-off bays, an audio guide map for easier navigation and improved lighting and CCTV around the station. 

    Network Rail will set out the process for applying in the coming weeks.

    Rail media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping Calls for Efforts to Build a Strong Country on 120th Anniversary of Comrade Chen Yun’s Birthday

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday called on people to learn from Comrade Chen Yun, carry forward and glorify his legacy, and work tirelessly to build China into a powerful country.

    Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered a speech at a symposium held at the Great Hall of the People to mark the 120th anniversary of Comrade Chen Yun’s birth.

    Chen Yun, born in 1905, joined the CPC in 1925. He was recognized as a great proletarian revolutionary and political figure, and one of the pioneers of China’s socialist economy. According to Xi Jinping, he was an important member of both the first-generation leading group of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Mao Zedong at its core and the second-generation leading group of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Deng Xiaoping at its core. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Provost Honors Two Members of the UConn Law Community

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Two outstanding members of the UConn Law community received prestigious honors from the provost at the end of the 2024–2025 academic year. The Provost’s Awards for Excellence in Community-Engaged Scholarship (PAECES) recognize the outstanding contributions of faculty, staff, students, teams, and community partners who collaboratively address critical societal challenges through the creative and reciprocal exchange of knowledge and resources.

    Jon Bauer, Clinical Professor of Law, Richard D. Tulisano’69 Scholar in Human Rights, and director of the School of Law’s Asylum and Human Rights Clinic received the Distinguished Faculty Instructor Award. Tanya Johnson, Research and Instructional Services Librarian, received the Emerging Staff Award.

    Distinguished Faculty Instructor Award: Jon Bauer

    Jon Bauer has spent more than two decades championing the rights of individuals fleeing persecution while transforming the lives of the students he mentors.

    Since co-founding the Asylum and Human Rights Clinic in 2002, Professor Bauer has led a service-learning program that immerses law students in every aspect of asylum representation. His students have handled 185 asylum cases, securing legal protection for their clients in over 90% of the cases, a grant rate more than twice the national average. These victories have enabled more than 300 clients and members of their families from across the globe to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.

    “With unwavering dedication and visionary leadership, Professor Jon Bauer has built a legacy of advocacy and education that reaches far beyond the classroom,” says Dean Eboni S. Nelson. “His work through the Asylum and Human Rights Clinic has not only safeguarded the lives of hundreds but also empowered students to lead with empathy, skill, and purpose in the pursuit of justice.”

    The clinic offers a 14-credit, year-long clinical experience where students take primary responsibility for client representation, including fact investigation, legal research, brief writing, and appearing at hearings before the Immigration Court or the U.S. Asylum Office. Clients represented through the clinic have fled persecution based on political beliefs, religion, gender, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Clinic alumni have served in the U.S. Departments of Justice, State, and Homeland Security, as well as in public interest law, private firms, and judicial clerkships.

    Beyond the law school, Professor Bauer is an active leader in the community. His advocacy and work on boards spans the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, Connecticut Legal Services, the Hartford Immigration Court’s Pro Bono Committee, and immigrant rights coalitions. In 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s Office honored him with its Civil Rights Enforcement Award for decades-long advocacy to eliminate discriminatory mental health inquiries from the bar admissions process.

    Emerging Staff Award: Tanya Johnson

    Through visionary leadership and a commitment to equity, Research and Instructional Services Librarian Tanya Johnson has worked to expand access to justice in housing and to reimagine legal education.

    Johnson envisioned and now leads the UConn Law Library Fair Rent Commission Project. She identified a significant challenge in response to a 2022 Connecticut law mandating municipalities to create Fair Rent Commissions (FRCs) to address tenant complaints about excessive rent increases: the lack of public access to FRC documentation and decisions. These materials were inconsistent or unavailable, creating barriers for tenants, attorneys, and advocates navigating the FRC process.

    Her work created a publicly accessible repository within the Connecticut Digital Archive (CTDA), which offers access to meeting agendas, ordinances, and commission decisions. Johnson is developing a comprehensive research guide and a detailed index of decisions, allowing users to evaluate trends, understand how municipalities interpret the law, and better prepare for hearings.

    “Tanya Johnson brings vision, innovation, and deep compassion to every facet of her work,” says Dean Nelson. “From transforming access to justice through groundbreaking digital archiving to reimagining legal education with creativity and care, she empowers students, strengthens communities, and reshapes the legal landscape with purpose and integrity.”

    Johnson’s impact extends into the classroom, where she incorporates active learning and gamification to enhance legal research instruction. She is co-authoring a book on using games in legal education to make complex legal concepts more accessible and inclusive.

    Her commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and justice (DEIAJ) is evident in her work with the DEIAJ Collection at the Law Library and student organizations. One of her most powerful contributions to these efforts was her 2023 article, “An Autoethnographic Exploration of Fatness in Law Librarianship,” which sparked meaningful conversations about representation, identity, and inclusion in the legal and academic communities.

    Through courses like Diversity & Inclusion in the Legal Profession and Research for Social Justice, she prepares students to engage critically and compassionately with the legal system. Her work ensures that legal education at UConn is rigorous and responsive to the real-world issues that students—and their future clients—will face.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Around the Air Force: Risk and Readiness, Project Magellan, Pilot Training Overhaul

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: Around the Air Force: Risk and Readiness, Project Magellan, Pilot Training Overhaul

    In this week’s look Around the Air Force, the Air Force Safety Center announces Phase II of the Chief of Staff’s Integrating Risk and Readiness campaign, Project Magellan earns international recognition by winning the 2025 Founder’s Award, and AETC aims to train 1,500 pilots per year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Takes Action on Several Bills

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Takes Action on Several Bills

    Governor Stein Takes Action on Several Bills
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein signed six bills into law.

    Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 506: 2025 State Investment Modernization Act: 

    “This bill puts North Carolina in line with the rest of the nation and allows us to make responsible decisions investing our state employees’ hard-earned pensions. I applaud Treasurer Briner for his leadership in modernizing our state’s investment system.” 

    Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 50: LEO Special Separation Allowance Options: 

    “Our law enforcement work day and night to keep us safe, and we need more public spirited people serving to address our law enforcement staffing challenges. This law enables veteran law enforcement officers to continue serving our communities and supporting their families without suffering a financial penalty. I advocated for this idea as Attorney General to keep more experienced police on the beat, and I am proud to sign it into law as Governor.” 

    Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 231: Social Work Interstate Licensure Compact: 

    “Our social workers support children, families, and communities, and they are needed now more than ever. This law will expand access to care to more people by allowing social workers from certain other states to more easily transfer their licenses to North Carolina.” 

    Governor Stein also signed the following bills into law: 

    • House Bill 477:  Retirement Death Benefits Rewrite
    • Senate Bill 248: Birth Certificates for Persons Adopted
    • Senate Bill 477: DNCR Agency Bill 
    Jun 13, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Behavioral Health Urgent Care Respite Facility Targeted Toward Children and Adolescents to Open in Columbus County

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: New Behavioral Health Urgent Care Respite Facility Targeted Toward Children and Adolescents to Open in Columbus County

    New Behavioral Health Urgent Care Respite Facility Targeted Toward Children and Adolescents to Open in Columbus County
    kcano1

    Chadbourn, N.C.

    Credentialed media are invited to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of a new behavioral health urgent care respite center for children and families in eastern North Carolina. In partnership with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Life Changing Behavioral Health Services, and Trillium Health Resources, the Life Changing Behavioral Health Urgent Care respite facility will open June 17, 2025.

    A respite facility is a safe and caring environment offering temporary relief for family members or caregivers who provide constant care to loved ones.  This is a six-bed respite facility for children and adolescents with mental health issues.

    Services include:

    • Emergency crisis stays
    • Hospital preventions
    • Early release from hospitals
    • Prevention of homelessness
    • Short-term stays

    What:    Ribbon Cutting and Open House for Life Changing Behavioral Health Urgent Care center opening

    Who:    Cecilia Peers, Regional Vice President, Southern Region, Trillium Health Resources

                 Debra Farrington, Deputy Secretary for Health, NCDHHS  

                 Christie Edwards, Chief Operating Officer, Trillium Health Resources

                 Shirley Smith, Director, Life Changing Behavioral Health

                 Jerome Chestnut, Town Manager, Fairmont

                 Jason Robinson, Town Manager, Chadbourn

                 Dr. James Pridgen, Medical Director/Owner, Whiteville Family Practice

                 Phyllis Chavis, Consultant/State Licensing Investigator, Retired

                 Phillip Britt, Mayor, Chadbourn

    When:  Tuesday, June 17

                 10-11 a.m.

    Where:  Life Changing Behavioral Health

                 115 Collins St. 

                 Chadbourn, NC 28431

    Media: Credentialed media interested in attending should RSVP to news@dhhs.nc.gov 

    Jun 13, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Israel’s air strikes signal a shifting relationship with the US and a weakening Iran

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor in the Department of Government, University of Essex

    The Middle East is undergoing a realignment of power. With Israel’s attack on Iranian nuclear sites and the assassination of at least two of Iran’s senior security officials, Benjamin Netanyahu is showing his willingness to go it alone and ignore pressure from the Trump administration.

    Though Donald Trump sought diplomatic solutions to the growing tensions between Israel and Iran, it appears that the US president, despite his previously strong relationship with the Israeli leader, was unable to restrain Netanyahu.

    The timing of the strikes is important. The Trump administration probably knew that they could not prevent Israel from striking Iran, but they did think they could pressure Israel to hold off launching an attack until after the US had solidified a new nuclear deal with Iran, talks for which were scheduled for June 15.

    Just hours before the air strikes, Trump said: “As long as I think there will be an agreement [with Iran], I don’t want them going in.”

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Experts had been divided in the past, over how much leverage the US held over Israel.

    Trump, following months of groundwork laid by the Joe Biden administration, managed to secure a ceasefire deal with Israel in January. But as part of the negotiation, Netanyahu succeeded in reversing sanctions on settlers in the West Bank, giving him free rein to act there. Additionally, the US also lifted its freeze on the transfer of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, another concession that benefited Israel.

    The US also proved unwilling or incapable of stopping the humanitarian crisis that has unfolded in Gaza. Washington also appeared powerless to stop Israel’s pounding of Lebanon and its efforts to eradicate the Iran-backed militia Hezbollah.

    The US has become more of a spectator than a powerful regional actor. And sources suggest that Washington was not informed in advance of Israel’s airstrike that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in October 2024, a sign of Israel’s growing willingness to act without US approval.



    Read more:
    Lethal humanitarianism: why violence at Gaza aid centres should not come as a surprise

    Indeed, the expansion of the war in Gaza to Lebanon was a pivotal moment in the region. With significant Israeli public support to stop Hezbollah (which had been launching rockets towards northern Israel), Israel pounded southern Beirut with airstrikes, killing several high-ranking Hezbollah officials.

    In the aftermath, Hezbollah was unable to replenish itself with younger recruits (it had relied on its charismatic leadership to recruit in the past), and the losses caused Hezbollah’s organisation to implode. By November 2024, Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire brokered by the US.

    Israel announces strikes on Iran.

    Iran’s weaker role

    Hezbollah’s near military and organisational collapse has been a big blow for Iran’s regional power. Hezbollah was at one point the most heavily armed violent non-state actor in the world. It had an army of around 50,000 men and experts speculated that it had as many as 200,000 rockets and missiles of various ranges in its arsenal.

    With the assassination of so many high-level officials in Hezbollah and Hamas, both of which Iran has bankrolled and used in its proxy conflicts with Israel, Iran has been severely weakened. As Iran is in the middle of an economic crisis, it no longer has the financial means to revive these traditional allies.



    Read more:
    Trump’s Middle East pivot aims to counter China’s rising influence

    For decades Iran had tried to gain strategic depth in the Middle East, with the US estimating that Iran spent more than US$16 billion to prop up Bashar al-Assad in Syria from 2012 to 2020. Additionally, with the fall of Assad, Syria can no longer serve as a transit corridor or logistical hub for shipments of arms from Iran to Hezbollah.

    With Turkey’s support for the various armed militias that ousted the Assad regime, it is Ankara, and not Tehran, that sees itself as the big winner in the aftermath of the Syrian civil war.

    US plans for Middle East threatened

    The US, meanwhile, is seeing its influence in the Middle East waning. And Trump’s plan for extending trade in the region, particularly in the Gulf, may also be undermined by the rising regional tension.

    The US had been due to send Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to this weekend’s talks in Oman, with the aim of getting Tehran to agree to stop enriching uranium (which is crucial for creating nuclear weapons) in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. Trump had said that he did not want Israel to go ahead with its attack on Iran, and yet these calls went unheeded.

    Some US officials were optimistic that the escalating tensions taking place between Iran and Israel were mere tactics of negotiation amid the important nuclear talks. But, though the US was clearly warned about the attack, Washington was not able to deter Israel.

    Though the US still supplies Israel with US$3.8 billion (£2.8 billion) worth of arms per year, it has had little success in exercising much leverage recently. It remains to be seen if domestic political pressure could halt this US funding.

    International relations experts should not be surprised that Israel went on the offensive in Iran. Israel’s attacks on Hezbollah in 2024 were just a precursor to the bigger prize of bringing Iran to its knees.

    For Netanyahu, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the Middle East and shift the regional power dynamics, and he appears to care little about what the US, or the rest of the world, thinks of how he does it.

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

    – ref. Why Israel’s air strikes signal a shifting relationship with the US and a weakening Iran – https://theconversation.com/why-israels-air-strikes-signal-a-shifting-relationship-with-the-us-and-a-weakening-iran-258926

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Kenya’s brutal police have been exposed again – why the system fails people

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Douglas Lucas Kivoi, Principal Policy Analyst, Governance Department, The Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA)

    The recent killing in Kenya of a young man in police detention highlights a string of systemic failures to hold the country’s security officers accountable for their actions. Despite public outrage and protests, Kenyan police officers continue to use inhumane, brutal and sometimes fatal methods with little consequence. Douglas Lucas Kivoi, who has studied policing and police reform in Kenya, unpacks the situation.

    Why is the Kenyan police service given to brutality?

    First, Kenya’s police institution was established as a colonial instrument of oppression. Police reforms since independence in 1963 have had little impact in changing this. Instead, successive governments have used the police to suppress dissent. This has cemented a culture of violence and police impunity. This was seen during former president Daniel arap Moi’s repressive regime, the post-2007 election violence and recent crackdowns on public protests protected under the constitution.

    The reaction to mass mobilisation in June 2024 was violent. This was because the state sees public demonstrations as a threat to its authority.

    Second, police brutality thrives in environments where wrongdoing goes unpunished. Kenya’s police force lacks good internal control mechanisms. A culture of silence and solidarity – the “blue code” – deters whistleblowing. Advancements and rewards are sometimes determined by political allegiances rather than professionalism.



    Read more:
    Kenyan police use excessive force because they’re serving political elites, not the public – policy analyst

    Third, many police officers work in toxic conditions marked by poor pay, limited resources and long shifts. These contribute to feelings of frustration and aggression. The situation is worsened by institutionalised corruption where police officers extort money from citizens and demand bribes. This has contributed to diminished ethical standards.

    What’s in place to punish police excesses?

    Kenya has several formal avenues for holding police accountable. But all are deeply flawed.

    Independent Policing Oversight Authority: This was established in 2011 in light of the post-election violence of 2007-08. Its job was to independently investigate police misconduct. However, underfunding and understaffing has led to delayed investigations.

    There has also been a lack of cooperation from the police. They often fail to provide evidence or deliberately provide misleading information to impede investigations.

    The authority also has limited enforcement power. It has recommended thousands of prosecutions of rogue officers. However, it has seen low conviction rates given the slow processes at the judiciary and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

    Internal Affairs Unit: This is a critical oversight body. It’s mandated to provide accountability and professional discipline within the police service. It’s tasked with investigating public complaints and complaints from within the police service against police officers.

    The unit can recommend to the National Police Service Commission disciplinary action – such as prosecution or dismissal – against officers it finds guilty. It also monitors police officers to ensure that ethical conduct and professional standards are maintained.

    However, the unit faces perceptions of a lack of independence and as an internal cover-up tool. In many instances, cases of police misconduct are simply punished by a transfer to another station.

    Judiciary and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions: Cases take years to move through the judicial system. Convictions are rare. The public prosecutions office has faced accusations of bias, which it exhibits through its reluctance to prosecute high-profile police killings.

    The time it takes to conclude police misconduct cases allows impunity to thrive. Deliberately poor investigations carried out by the police (who are also suspects) have led to collapsed cases.

    National Police Service Commission: This was established by the 2010 Kenyan constitution. The commission recruits and appoints police officers (except the inspector-general of police, who is appointed by the president with parliamentary approval). It also promotes, transfers and disciplines police officers.

    However, the commission has faced claims of being unduly influenced by the inspector-general’s office in recruitment and promotions. This undermines its independence.



    Read more:
    How Nairobi police failures let people get away with murder

    Civil society and the media: Organisations like Amnesty International Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission document police abuses. But their reports rarely, if ever, lead to any real action being taken. The media’s attention and reporting of cases may exert temporary pressure but this doesn’t seem to have any long-term impact.

    Why haven’t these mechanisms worked?

    Firstly, there’s an institutional resistance to reform. Powerful factions in the police and government benefit from the current system. Whenever there is an attempt at enforcing accountability, these senior officials take advantage of bureaucratic delays, and harass investigators and whistleblowers.

    In extreme cases, they enforce the disappearance of witnesses.

    Secondly, a lack of political will creates a favourable environment to circumvent constitutional frameworks. This ultimately weakens any chances of accountability. At best, police in Kenya are used to defend political interests and suppress dissent.

    This emboldens powerful political players who want the police to be controllable. This dissuades them from instituting actual reforms and establishing a humane policing service.

    What will change things?

    Until those in leadership positions genuinely prioritise independent institutions and justice over transient political gains, significant police reform is unlikely to be realised.

    Elements of such reform would include steps to:

    Strengthen police oversight and guarantee independence

    The Independent Policing Oversight Authority Act needs to be amended to enhance autonomy. The current system is easy for the president to manipulate because he gets to appoint the authority’s commissioners.

    There’s also a need to provide the authority with equipment. This includes ballistics analysis, digital forensics and crime scene reconstruction capabilities to combat police cover-ups.

    The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions must also be required to respond to the authority’s recommendations within 30 days. Currently, cases can take years to complete. There have been instances when rogue police have used this window to eliminate witnesses or tamper with evidence.

    Overhaul police training and culture

    There must be a move away from paramilitary-style drills and procedures in training. Instead, officers need to practise de-escalation, communication and problem-solving tactics with the public. What exists within Kenya now is a paramilitary service not a police service.

    Additionally, the police service commission needs to reward professionalism and not cronyism.

    Judicial and prosecutorial reforms

    Ending police impunity in Kenya requires a multi-pronged approach. This involves judicial independence, vigorous prosecution, meaningful oversight, legislative changes and public engagement.

    But this requires meaningful political will.

    Political accountability

    Continued police impunity has eroded public confidence in Kenya’s policing and justice systems. The policing oversight authority needs sufficient funding – free of political interference – to investigate and prosecute police misconduct. Senior officers should be held accountable for not disciplining rogue officers under their charge. The presidency and interior ministry must have a zero-tolerance policy toward police brutality.

    If Kenya doesn’t grapple with police impunity, then the anniversary of the June 2024 protests will be just another date in history when the state brutally attacked, maimed and killed its own citizenry. And still managed to silence them.

    Douglas Lucas Kivoi 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. Kenya’s brutal police have been exposed again – why the system fails people – https://theconversation.com/kenyas-brutal-police-have-been-exposed-again-why-the-system-fails-people-258843

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Sam Fender’s music offers a vision of masculinity that is complex, conflicted and deeply human

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nick Robinson, Associate Professor in Politics and International Studies, University of Leeds

    By the end of June 2025, Sam Fender will have played four stadium shows to nearly 250,000 people across the UK, with three of those in his native north east. With three albums and over 2 billion streams, his music has earned widespread acclaim. Yet, Fender is no ordinary rock star.

    His songs provide a powerful connection to place and a lens through which to reflect on social, cultural and political dynamics. Deeply rooted in north-east England, Fender’s lyrics reference his hometown of North Shields and use local vernacular.

    As a researcher of the links between popular culture and politics who lives less than a mile from his hometown, I find his work particularly powerful in the way it mobilises emotive issues at scale. Fender explores themes such as masculinity, poverty and everyday struggle, forging a direct emotional connection with his audience.

    This connection is reinforced by his activism. Fender supports local food banks, the Teenage Cancer Trust, and campaigns for poverty reduction and men’s mental health.

    To my mind, this work is not performative celebratory activism, but is grounded in his own community and personal experiences. This combination of commercial success rooted in honesty, vulnerability and community action led to him being named “freeman of North Tyneside” in May 2025.


    Boys and girls are together facing an uncertain world. But research shows they are diverging when it comes to attitudes about masculinity, feminism and gender equality.

    Social media, politics, and identity all play a role. But what’s really going on with boys and girls? Join The Conversation UK and Cumberland Lodge’s Youth and Democracy project at Newcastle University for a discussion of these issues with young people and academic experts. Tickets available here.

    Fender’s teenage years were marked by personal challenges, including his parents’ separation and his mother’s fibromyalgia. These experiences, and the state’s failure to support those in need, are captured in his song Seventeen Going Under (2021): “I came home and you were on the floor / Floored by the letters and the council rigmarole.”

    His latest album, People Watching (2025), continues this critique. The title track, inspired by the death of a close friend in a care home, laments:

    The place was fallin’ to bits

    Understaffed and overruled by callous hands

    The poor nurse was around the clock

    And the beauty of youth had left my breaking heart.

    The music video for People Watching.

    For Fender, these stories reflect a Britain in decline. In Crumbling Empire, he sings: “Road like the surface of the moon / A Detroit neighbourhood left to ruin.” The song further critiques a society that fails to honour those who have given everything:

    My mother delivered most the kids in this town

    My step-dad drove in a tank for the crown

    They left them homeless, down and out

    In their crumbling empire.

    His message is clear: hard work, even by midwives and war heroes, no longer guarantees dignity or reward.

    Fender’s most poignant observations are rooted in his locality. In Nostalgia’s Lie, he sings: “These streets break my heart / There’s pain unfurling and desperate yearning / For all my friends who are gone.”

    North Shields has some of the highest rates of child poverty in the UK. According to the North East Child Poverty Commission (March 2025), 31% of children in the region lived below the poverty line between 2021 and 2024.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    In this context, Fender places mental health – especially male mental health – at the core of his work, made even more powerful by his honesty about his own struggles.

    Dead Boys reflects both personal loss and the epidemic of male suicide in North Tyneside: “We close our eyes, learn our pain / Nobody ever could explain / All the dead boys in our hometown.”

    In Something Heavy, he adds: “My friends reached for the rope and tied / Oh, God, how can we keep missing signals?”

    Fender performs Dead Boys in Manchester.

    Fender’s engagement with mental health is deeply personal. He wrestles with confusion, despondency, and his own sense of self-esteem: “Though I am a soundboard to some / With myself I am not so forgiving” (Last to Make it Home), and “Sometimes I wanna die, sometimes” (Paradigms).

    In Good Company, he confesses: “Sometimes I cry until there’s no sound,” and in Arm’s Length: “Do you have to know me, know me, inside out / I’m selfish, and I’m lonely.”

    Yet, like many artists, Fender feels guilt that success has uprooted him. In Wild Long Lie, he reflects: “Oh, I’ve got so much pain here, yet so much love / But it’s drownin’ every inch of my soul.” He questions whether he can still authentically raise these issues now that fame has distanced him from his past. As he puts it in Crumbling Empire:

    I’m not preaching, I’m just talking

    I don’t wear the shoes I used to walk in

    But I can’t help thinking where I’d be

    In this crumbling empire.

    Fender’s work helps us understand political and social phenomena by reflecting unfolding events. His songs can be seen as giving life and voice to what political theorist Michael Shapiro calls an “aesthetic subject”.

    The characters in his songs, whether autobiographical or imagined, give voice to communities which are so often ignored. They allow exploration of the structures of power that deny working-class people opportunities, contributing to mental health crises, suicide and spiralling drug use within those communities.

    Sam Fender talks about men’s mental health.

    Even though Fender acknowledges he no longer walks in the same shoes, his songs still speak truth to power. They give voice to experiences that are often ignored and expose the increasing struggle of everyday life in the UK and beyond.

    He also offers a nuanced reflection on masculinity. Fender challenges traditional ideals – rational, authoritative, emotionally restrained – while rejecting simplified portrayals of men as weak or unstable. His songs reveal a masculinity that is complex, conflicted and deeply human.

    While Fender is not alone in using music for social commentary, what sets him apart is his ability to channel the spirit of his local community to explore universal themes. His work critiques the failures of contemporary capitalism to provide dignity, respect, and cohesion – issues that resonate deeply amid today’s cultural, political and economic challenges.

    Nick Robinson 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. Sam Fender’s music offers a vision of masculinity that is complex, conflicted and deeply human – https://theconversation.com/sam-fenders-music-offers-a-vision-of-masculinity-that-is-complex-conflicted-and-deeply-human-258530

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Marine fungi could help feed the world and fight disease

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Cunliffe, Professor of Marine Microbiology, School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth

    Fungi are nature’s recyclers and chemists, turning waste into useful products and creating an array of enzymes and compounds. By harnessing this potential through fungal biotechnology (using fungi to develop products and technologies for various applications), we can create sustainable materials, food and processes that help solve global challenges like food shortages, pollution and climate change.

    Fungal biotechnology supports a “circular economy”, where resources are reused instead of wasted. Fungi can help make our food supply more stable and eco-friendly, while cutting greenhouse gas emissions. But to fully unlock what is possible, we need to better understand different fungi and develop new tools to work with them to find solutions.

    The marine environment is home to a rich diversity of fungi. However, marine fungi were once overlooked and not widely considered for their biotechnological potential.


    Local science, global stories.

    This article is part of a series, Secrets of the Sea, exploring how marine scientists are developing climate solutions.

    In collaboration with the BBC, The Conversation’s senior environment editor, Anna Turns, travels around the West Country coastline to meet ocean experts making exciting discoveries beneath the waves.

    Now, my team of scientists at the Marine Biological Association, a research institution based in Plymouth on the south-west coast of England, has changed that. By gathering over 500 fungal strains from seawater, sediments and seaweeds, we have created a comprehensive marine fungi culture collection.

    These fungi are stored at -80°C and studied at temperatures similar to the local shoreline they are from. This unique collection is already helping us learn more about marine fungi, including how they grow and adapt to different environments.

    My colleagues and I are now exploring how these marine fungi, especially those from seaweed, can be used in biotechnology to create more useful, sustainable products in the future.

    The European seaweed industry is growing fast and could be worth up to €9.3 billion (£7.8 billion) by 2030. Seaweed farming doesn’t need land, fresh water or fertiliser, and it can support ocean health.

    Marine fungi, especially those originally isolated from seaweed, could recycle seaweed into valuable products.

    At the Marine Biological Association, we are testing many combinations of different seaweeds and fungi to discover new uses. This approach could help make the seaweed industry stronger, more efficient and better for the environment.

    The future is fungal

    Feeding the world’s growing population is a major challenge, especially with nearly a billion people unable to afford nutritious food and the environmental consequences of high meat consumption. One promising alternative protein source involves using seaweed and fermenting it with marine fungi to create a nutritious protein source called mycoprotein – similar to what’s found in some current commercial products.

    Antimicrobial resistance – the development of superbugs that become resistant to antibiotics as a result of their overuse – is a global health threat. This makes it harder to treat infections. Fungi naturally produce chemicals to protect themselves from other microbes, and several antibiotics come from fungi, including penicillin. Marine fungi could be a valuable new source of antibiotics and drug treatments to fight resistant infections and protect public health.

    Pests and the diseases they spread cause major crop losses worldwide, threatening food security. Traditional chemical pesticides are becoming less effective and can harm helpful species like pollinators, while also leading to pest resistance.

    Scientists are now exploring ways to target pests by using microbes without damaging the environment. One promising but unexplored source is marine fungi. Marine fungi and the arsenal of chemical compounds they produce may hold the key to developing new, eco-friendly pest control methods that protect crops while supporting wildlife and sustainable farming practices.

    Our marine fungi culture collection is helping unlock the potential for finding new solutions to many of the world’s biggest challenges.

    Listen to episode four of Secrets of the Sea here on BBC Sounds, presented by Anna Turns for The Conversation.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Michael Cunliffe received funding from the European Research Council (ERC) for the project MYCO-CARB and currently receives funding from the UKRI Horizon Europe Guarantee scheme for the projects MARCO-BOLO and BIOcean5D. PhD students in the Cunliffe Group are supported by the UKRI BBSRC/NERC SWBio, ARIES and INSPIRE Doctoral Training Partnerships and the Marine Biological Association.

    – ref. Marine fungi could help feed the world and fight disease – https://theconversation.com/marine-fungi-could-help-feed-the-world-and-fight-disease-251194

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –