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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace calls for drastic cut in plastic production as new report reveals millions at risk of toxic air pollution exposure

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Amsterdam, The Netherlands – A new Greenpeace International report released today reveals that over 50 million people in 11 countries [1] are at risk of exposure to hazardous air pollution from plastic linked petrochemical production. The findings intensify pressure on negotiators at the Global Plastics Treaty talks in Geneva to secure a treaty that tackles the problem at its source: plastic production.

    Graham Forbes, Global Plastics Campaign Lead for Greenpeace USA and Greenpeace Head of Delegation for the Global Plastics Treaty negotiation said: “What this report shows is that the plastics crisis is a public health emergency. The Global Plastics Treaty must deliver a 75% cut in plastic production by 2040 to reduce escalating threats to human and planetary health. People are being poisoned so fossil fuel and petrochemical companies can churn out more unnecessary plastic. Without a treaty that cuts production, the plastic crisis will only grow worse.”

    The report, Every Breath You Take: Air Pollution Risks from Petrochemicals Production for the Plastics Supply Chain, shifts the lens to midstream level plastic production—to the petrochemical plants that produce precursors to plastic and expose frontline communities living near to these facilities who are potentially facing exposure to dangerous air pollutants.

    During the production of feedstock, petrochemical facilities emit a suite of harmful airborne substances typically including Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and sulfur oxides (SOₓ) and particulate matter (PM). Studies report higher concentrations of these pollutants near petrochemical facilities, with proximity linked to increased illness—raising a serious cause for concern.

    Key findings from the report include:

    • Over 51 million people in the 11 countries studied live within 10 km of plastics-linked petrochemical facilities; 16 million live within 5 km. In every country studied, residential areas lie within 10 km of plastic-linked petrochemical plants.
    • The United States has the highest number of people living at a distance that is linked to elevated risk—13 million, especially in Texas and Louisiana.
    • One in four people in the Netherlands live at a distance that is linked to elevated risk of exposure to air pollution emissions, including toxic emissions, from petrochemical plants. It has the highest proportion of its population at risk with 4.5 million people or 25.6% of the entire population within the exposure zones assessed in the analysis. The country with the second highest proportion is Switzerland at 10.9% of the population.
    • The pollution created by some petrochemical plants in the regions reviewed for the report is transboundary. Several plants are located in border zones, affecting communities in Austria, Poland, Singapore, Belgium, France and Germany.[2]
    • In documented case studies, communities near petrochemical facilities suffer disproportionately from cancer, respiratory disease, and premature death. The UN has labeled some of these areas “sacrifice zones.”

    The report also warns of industry plans to expand global plastic production through 2050, which would create more sacrifice zones, more waste exported to low-income countries, and more short-lived products driving the climate, health and waste crisis.

    The global Greenpeace network is demanding that the Global Plastics Treaty must reduce plastic production by at least 75% by 2040 to protect people’s health, the climate and the environment. The next round of negotiations will happen on August 5 to 14, 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

    ENDS

    Full report: Every Breath You Take: Air Pollution Risks from Petrochemicals Production for the Plastics Supply Chain

    Photos and videos can be accessed in the Greenpeace Media Library. 

    Interactive maps of petrochemical production zones

    Notes: 

    [1] The report, Every Breath You Take: Air Pollution Risks from Petrochemicals Production for the Plastics Supply Chain, identified the locations of petrochemical facilities linked to plastics in 11 countries: Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, Canada, USA, Germany, United Kingdom, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. The countries were selected because of their significant petrochemical presence or association with major plastic-related concerns.

    [2] The transboundary zones include populations in Austria and Poland (from German facilities), Singapore (from Malaysian facilities) Belgium and Germany (from Dutch facilities) France and Germany (from Swiss facilities).

    Contacts:

    Angelica Carballo Pago, Global Plastics Campaign Media Lead, Greenpeace USA, +63 917 1124492, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: Youth summer programs in full swing at National Aquatics Center

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

    [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    The National Aquatics Center in Beijing is bustling this summer as it welcomes young people to a wide range of sports programs. From ice skating and swimming to dance and science camps, the venue is offering diverse options to help children stay active, learn new skills and enjoy the summer break.

    Ice skating has emerged as the most popular choice this year. The venue is running more than 10 small-group classes for young participants of varying ages and skill levels. Enrollment has jumped nearly 70% compared to earlier in the year, with all training sessions on the center’s 1,830-square-meter standard rink.

    [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    Swimming courses and group training camps at the venue are also drawing large numbers of students. To ensure a focused training environment, the venue’s swimming pool is closed to the public on weekday mornings and reserved exclusively for instruction.

    Indoor kayaking has also returned to the venue’s summer lineup, allowing young participants to try paddle sports in a controlled environment while avoiding sun exposure and seasonal allergens.

    [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    Beyond ice and water sports, the venue is also offering a range of other programs to support youth development. These include dance, tennis and physical fitness classes tailored to school-aged children.

    The Water Cube Dance Studio launched a Chinese dance summer camp in July to help students prepare for graded examinations and improve their technique. The venue’s youth development club has also introduced other camp options, including science research, project-based learning programs, drone and model aircraft building, and nature journaling to help students explore interests and develop skills. An overnight camp with Olympic-themed activities is also available.

    The diversification reflects the venue’s strategy to maximize year-round use of its dual-Olympic legacy and develop it as a hub for youth development each summer.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Long-stay tourism boom ignites ‘cool economy’ in highlands

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

    A drone photo taken on July 18, 2025 shows a local Yizu Dage team performing during a parade show on the ancient street of Nanzhao in Weishan Yi and Hui Autonomous County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Peng Yikai)

    At his guesthouse in southwest China’s Kunming, Zhang Cheng wiped down the counter in preparation for the next wave of arrivals, as the country’s highland summer migration unfolded, a seasonal drift measured not in days but in months.

    “Since summer began, we’ve had almost no vacancies,” he said. A steady stream of guests from the sweltering nearby regions of Sichuan and Chongqing is replacing the usual ebb and flow of tourists in this capital city of Yunnan Province.

    As scorching heat blankets much of China, Yunnan and Guizhou provinces, with average summer temperatures of 15 to 21 degrees Celsius, are experiencing the explosive growth of “cool summer residencies.”

    Yunnan alone hosted 2.8 million long-stay visitors in the first half of 2025, a surge of 45.4 percent year on year. These visitors stayed an average of 91 days, 11 days longer than the previous year.

    In the province’s Qujing City, famed for its cooler summers, companies like Licheng Residential Leasing are transforming idle homes into managed residences. This summer, Licheng has provided over 100 beds and three meals daily through contracted residential homes in the city’s Niujie community, hosting over 200 guests so far.

    Industry experts believe that traditional tourism often funnels spending into transportation and tickets, limiting local economic benefits, whereas tourism engaging local residents retains more spending within the community.

    In Qujing, for example, dining accounts for 40 percent of long-stay visitors’ spending, vastly exceeding the 10 percent typical of short-stay tourists. The city welcomed 2 million long-stay visitors in last summer, peaking at 270,000 daily, generating 23.6 billion yuan (around 3.3 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue.

    Leveraging its national forest park, Xishui County in Guizhou has developed 28 summer residence projects across six townships, now housing 36,000 households, mostly from other provinces. Since June, hotels and homestays have reported peak seasons.

    Dai Bin, head of the China Tourism Academy, highlighted the shift of the tourism model “from simply leveraging cool climates to integrating culture, wellness and learning.” He cited the example of children joining forest rangers for plant identification in a nature science camp while parents learn local crafts, as well as one in Yunnan’s Dali that combines cool air with holistic healing through yoga in the forest.

    Recognizing the potential, China’s National Development and Reform Commission issued guidelines in 2023 to boost summer tourism, urging better products and infrastructure.

    According to Rao Xiangbi, deputy director of Yunnan’s culture and tourism department, long-stay visitors now flock not just from nearby Sichuan and Chongqing, but increasingly from Guangdong, Zhejiang, and even the northernmost Heilongjiang Province, with over 80 percent being young and middle-aged people.

    Experts from the United Nations World Tourism Organization have noted that such climate-adaptive tourism is a growing necessity globally and is poised to become a defining future trend as climate change intensifies. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • India’s BioE3 policy to spearhead green growth and biomanufacturing revolution

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Government’s ambitious BioE3 Policy—short for Biotechnology for Economy, Environment & Employment—emerged as the focal point of a high-level joint review meeting of all Science Ministries, chaired by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. Held in the national capital on Monday, the review convened top scientific officials to evaluate inter-ministerial initiatives and promote a unified, outcome-driven vision in alignment with India’s Vision 2047.

    Approved by the Cabinet in August 2024, the BioE3 Policy is designed to transform India into a global hub for sustainable biomanufacturing by leveraging biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The Minister was informed about the overwhelming response to the policy’s first round of DBT-BIRAC ( Department of Biotechnology- Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance) joint calls, which attracted over 2,000 proposals. Calling it a “national mission,” Dr. Singh emphasized its role in driving green growth, expanding the bioeconomy, and generating employment across sectors.

    The BioE3 framework focuses on five critical domains—Carbon Capture and Utilization, Precision Biotherapeutics, Smart Proteins, Enzymes, and Climate-Resilient Agriculture. Nearly 40% of the selected proposals are being led by startups and private industry through public-private partnership (PPP) models. Academic institutions, meanwhile, are at the forefront of agri-biotech innovations. These initiatives are being supported by the national MoolankurBioEnabler Network, a cutting-edge platform comprising Bio-AI Hubs, biofoundries, and biomanufacturing centers.

    In a strategic move to reverse brain drain, the Minister also reviewed a proposal to introduce 100 post-doctoral fellowships for Indian scientists working abroad. “We must offer meaningful opportunities to attract our talent back,” Dr. Singh stated, underlining the importance of building domestic research capabilities.

    The review also covered developments in India’s energy sector. Officials provided updates on ongoing site assessments in Bihar for new nuclear power plants. These evaluations, focusing on land availability, water resources, seismic stability, and soil conditions, are being conducted in collaboration with state authorities. Final approval will rest with the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board.

    India’s space programme also received significant attention. A recent technological advancement is set to boost the payload capacity of the GSLV Mark-3 rocket by 20%—achieved without structural modifications. Officials further disclosed that a near-crisis during an international satellite launch was averted after a crack in the fuel line was promptly detected and rectified. Dr. Singh lauded the swift action and high level of preparedness demonstrated by the technical teams.

    Preparations are now underway for National Space Day, which will highlight the contributions of India’s thriving space startup ecosystem. Over 300 private firms are expected to participate in live demonstrations and exhibitions, showcasing innovations that are fast becoming integral to India’s space ambitions.

    Educational outreach also featured prominently in the discussions. The Ministry is exploring ways to expand initiatives such as Vigyan Jyoti, which has witnessed growing participation from schoolgirls nationwide. In response to rising interest from students in Classes 6 to 10, efforts are being made to broaden early-stage mentorship and innovation programmes.

    Calling for greater inter-ministerial alignment, Dr. Singh directed departments to channel key proposals through the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser for better strategic coordination. “We must avoid overlaps and work in unison to achieve national outcomes,” he said.

  • MIL-OSI Europe: July results of the Bank Lending Survey in Germany | Demand continued to rise in all loan categories

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank

    The German banks responding to the Bank Lending Survey (BLS) tightened their credit standards for loans to enterprises and loans to households in the second quarter of 2025. Increased credit risk and lower risk tolerance were the rationale behind the tightening.
    The surveyed banks barely changed their credit terms and conditions for loans to enterprises and loans to households for house purchase. For consumer credit and other lending to households, they tightened credit terms and conditions on balance.
    Loan demand continued to rise in all loan categories; the demand for loans to enterprises increased more strongly than in previous quarters.
    The non-performing loans (NPL) ratio and other indicators of credit quality had a tightening impact on banks’ credit standards, terms and conditions in all loan categories under review.
    Owing to climate-related risks and measures to cope with climate change, the past twelve months saw banks tighten their credit standards for “brown” firms and firms in transition. In the case of loans to households for house purchase, credit standards for loans for buildings with poor energy performance also became more restrictive.

    The BLS covers three loan categories: loans to enterprises, loans to households for house purchase, and consumer credit and other lending to households. On balance, the surveyed banks tightened their credit standards (i.e. their internal guidelines or loan approval criteria) for loans to enterprises and loans to households. The net share of banks that tightened their standards stood at + 3 % for loans to enterprises (compared with + 3 % in the previous quarter). Credit standards for loans to enterprises were tightened only for small and medium-sized enterprises. The banks tightened credit standards for loans to households for house purchase by + 11 % in net terms (compared with − 7 % in the previous quarter) and for consumer credit and other lending to households by + 11 % in net terms (compared with 0 % in the previous quarter). Banks tightened their credit standards for all reported loan categories to a lesser extent than they had planned in the previous quarter. 
    The rationale given by the banks for the marginal tightening of credit standards for loans to enterprises was elevated credit risk owing to the gloomier economic situation and the economic outlook. The banks cited a decrease in their risk tolerance as the main reason for tightening their credit standards for loans to households. In addition, a decline in households’ creditworthiness had a restrictive impact on consumer credit and other lending. For the third quarter of 2025, banks are planning to ease their credit standards for loans to enterprises. As regards loans to households, they expect to tighten credit standards again if borrowers’ credit quality continues to deteriorate.

    Changes in credit standards for loans to enterprises and contributing factors

    On aggregate, banks made hardly any changes to their credit terms and conditions (i.e. the terms and conditions actually approved as laid down in the loan contract) for loans to enterprises and loans to households for house purchase. For consumer credit and other lending to households, they tightened credit terms and conditions on balance. The banks justified these adjustments primarily on the grounds of their reduced risk tolerance and an increase in credit risk.
    The surveyed banks reported that demand for bank loans in Germany had risen on balance in all loan categories in the second quarter of 2025. The increase in demand exceeded the banks’ expectations from the previous quarter in all surveyed business areas. Demand for loans to enterprises rose more strongly than in previous quarters. The banks cited an increase in financing needs for fixed investment as well as for inventories and working capital as the reason. In both cases, this was the first time in a year that banks reported moderate growth in funding needs again. In addition, the general level of interest rates also contributed to the increase in demand. According to the surveyed banks, the renewed significant rise in demand for loans to households for house purchase was due mainly to households’ positive view of the outlook on the housing market and the lower level of interest rates. Banks put the rise in households’ demand for consumer credit and other lending down to improved consumer confidence and an increase in purchases of durable consumer goods. The loan rejection rate for loans to enterprises went up again, primarily for loan requests and applications from small and medium-sized enterprises. The rejection rate also increased for consumer credit and other lending to households, but remained unchanged for loans for house purchase. For the third quarter of 2025, banks are expecting to see demand increase further across all three loan categories. For loans to enterprises, banks are expecting positive impetus from domestic economic policy but at the same time a dampening impact from the global political situation.

    Change in demand for loans to enterprises and contributing factors

    The July survey round contained ad hoc questions on participating banks’ financing conditions and about the impact of NPLs and other indicators of credit quality on the institutions’ lending policies. It also contained a question on their credit standards, terms and conditions, and on demand for loans across the main economic sectors. In addition, for the third time, BLS banks were surveyed on the impact of climate change and climate-related measures on bank lending. They were asked to report on the impact for “green” firms (firms that do not contribute or contribute little to climate change), firms in transition (firms that contribute to climate change, which are making relevant progress in the transition), and “brown” firms (firms that contribute strongly to climate change, which have not yet started or have so far made only little progress in the transition). This question was expanded for the first time to include a question on the impact of climate change and climate-related measures in connection with loans to households for house purchase. Another ad hoc question assessed the impact of excess liquidity on bank lending.
    Given the conditions in financial markets, German banks reported that their funding situation had improved slightly compared with the previous quarter. 
    In the second quarter of 2025, the NPL ratio (the stock of gross NPLs on the bank’s balance sheet as a percentage of the gross carrying amount of loans) and other indicators of credit quality, owing to their size, had a restrictive impact on credit standards, terms and conditions for loans to enterprises and loans to households. For the third quarter of 2025, the banks are expecting this credit quality-driven restrictive effect to continue. Credit standards for loans to enterprises were tightened most sharply over the past six months in the (commercial) real estate and manufacturing sectors. However, credit standards were also tightened for all other sectors surveyed, with the exception of services. For the next six months, banks are not expecting to make any noteworthy adjustments to credit standards in any of the economic sectors, the first time they have reported this for quite some time.
    Climate-related risks and measures to cope with climate change have had a restrictive impact on credit standards for loans to enterprises over the past twelve months. The more the enterprises contributed to climate change, the greater that impact was. The effects of climate change had a restrictive impact on credit terms and conditions, especially those for loans to “brown” firms. The effect was expansionary, on the other hand, for loans to “green” firms. Over the next twelve months, banks expect climate change to ease their credit standards, terms and conditions for “green” firms. They are expecting climate change to have a further restrictive impact on their credit standards, terms and conditions for loans to other enterprises. At the same time, the effects of climate change, taken in isolation, stimulated loan demand from “green” firms and firms in transition. By contrast, climate change and climate policy had no impact on loan demand from “brown” firms. For the next twelve months, banks are expecting to see climate change stimulate demand for loans irrespective of firms’ classification.
    In the case of loans to households for house purchase, credit standards for loans for buildings with poor energy performance were tightened. By contrast, for loans for buildings with high or reasonably good energy performance, climate-related risks and measures to cope with climate change had no notable impact on credit standards. Over the next twelve months, banks expect this adjustment of credit standards, which is dependent on buildings’ energy performance, to continue. At the same time, climate-related factors, especially investment in the energy performance of buildings, in isolation, stimulated demand for loans for buildings with high or reasonably good energy performance. By contrast, demand for loans for buildings with poor energy performance remained unaffected by climate-related factors. Over the next twelve months, banks expect rising demand for loans for buildings with high energy performance and declining loan demand for buildings with poor energy performance.
    The banks do not see developments in excess liquidity held with the Eurosystem as having had any impact on bank lending over the past six months. By their account, that is unlikely to change in the next six months. 
    The Bank Lending Survey, which is conducted four times a year, took place between 13 June and 1 July 2025. In Germany, 33 banks took part in the survey, with a response rate of 100 %.

    Changes in credit standards for loans to enterprises across main economic sectors

    Changes in credit standards for loans to households for house purchases and contributing factors

    Change in demand for loans to households for house purchase and contributing factors

    Time series credit standards
    Loans to enterprises
    Loans to households for house purchase
    Consumer credit and other lending to households

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Transparency and democratic accountability in Commission practices – E-002868/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002868/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dick Erixon (ECR), Charlie Weimers (ECR), Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

    In recent years, the Commission has been criticised for a pattern of opaque decision-making and lack of disclosure, raising concerns about democratic accountability in the EU. This includes the refusal to disclose key communications during major public procurement processes, restrictions on access to contracts with non-governmental organisations receiving EU funding and self-imposed exemptions from transparency rules in meetings with non-EU authorities[1][2][3].

    These practices raise concerns about democratic accountability within the EU and risk eroding public trust in EU governance. If the Commission expects Member States to uphold the rule of law and transparency, it must apply the same standards to its own conduct.

    • 1.What concrete measures will the Commission take to improve institutional transparency, particularly in relation to high-level communications and procurement processes involving significant public funds?
    • 2.Does the Commission consider it compatible with democratic principles that Members of the European Parliament can only access NGO funding contracts under confidentiality agreements, and if so, why?
    • 3.Will the President of the European Commission commit to publishing a comprehensive list of meetings held between Commission officials and non-EU representatives since 2022, including the purpose and participants of such meetings?

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    • [1] https://brusselssignal.eu/2025/04/ec-admits-misuse-and-undue-lobbying-activities-in-grant-awards/.
    • [2] https://www.sullcrom.com/insights/memo/2025/May/EU-Court-Landmark-Ruling-Reinforces-Transparency-EU-Institutions.
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001292_EN.html.
    Last updated: 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – G7 declaration on the minimum international taxation regime and advantages provided to US-based multinationals – E-002858/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002858/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Fabio De Masi (NI)

    The Commission has recently argued that the G7’s declaration on the treatment reserved for the United States as regards the minimum international taxation of multinationals should be automatically translated into EU law, without requiring amendments to EU law. Adopting the declaration would mean that US multinationals would continue to benefit from the ‘safe harbour’ mechanism and would therefore not be subject to the 15 % minimum tax requirement. This would be achieved through the establishment of a side-by-side system. This system could also give the United States a slight competitive advantage over European companies.

    I would therefore like to ask the following questions:

    • 1.Is there agreement among the Member States regarding the adoption of the G7 declaration?
    • 2.Was there a vote in the Council on approving the G7 declaration?
    • 3.Are there specific measures under discussion that could offset the potential competitive disadvantage associated with the side-by-side system?

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    Last updated: 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Commission’s Rule of Law Report – E-002852/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002852/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Erik Kaliňák (NI)

    The Commission’s Rule of Law Report was initially portrayed as a document that would offer an objective, impartial and evidence-based evaluation of the state of the rule of law in the Member States. Unfortunately, I must say that the declared ambitions have not been fulfilled, even several years later. The report repeatedly suffers from the same shortcomings.

    In light of the foregoing:

    • 1.Given that it is now clear that the Commission treats some Member States more strictly while overlooking the shortcomings of others, how does it intend to ensure the political neutrality of the report?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to guarantee objectivity when the report often lacks adequate justification for its assertions (the Commission often fails to provide evidence to support its assertions or their broader context)?
    • 3.How does it intend to ensure that the report responds only to actual shortcomings and does not criticise states for hypothetical, non-existent threats?

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    Last updated: 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The unilateral support for LGBTIQ projects and the absence of initiatives tackling anti-Christian discrimination in the CERV-2025-EQUAL call for proposals – E-002861/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002861/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Pietro Fiocchi (ECR), Marco Squarta (ECR)

    Recently published by the Commission, the 2025 CERV call for proposals[1] is the umpteenth example of how this institution uses public funds to push its own ideologies, which are totally out of touch with reality and with the views of millions of EU citizens.

    Surprisingly, the only form of religious discrimination that the call does not mention is that against Christians, an omission that is made all the more egregious when we see that, according to the latest OIDAC data (which also draws on ODIHR/OSCE sources[2]), hate crimes against Christians in Europe rose almost 20 % between 2022 and 2023. In addition, only 10 EU governments provided disaggregated data, a critical monitoring deficit.

    The CERV-2025-EQUAL call also earmarks funding for projects focusing on the LGBTIQ agenda and mentions ‘rainbow families’, a concept which is not recognised by law in Italy and other Member States.

    It is unacceptable that, instead of being used to tackle all forms of discrimination fairly and impartially, European public funds are allocated to push a biased and ideological understanding of discrimination in Europe .

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Why did the Commission not include any initiatives combating discrimination against Christians in the CERV-2025-EQUAL call?
    • 2.How can it justify supporting social models that are not legally recognised in a number of Member States?
    • 3.Will the Commission revise the 2025 CERV call for proposals so that it genuinely ensures pluralism and upholds national competences?

    Supporter[3]

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/CERV-2025-EQUAL-RESTRICTED?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&frameworkProgramme=43251589&order=DESC&pageNumber=1&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate.
    • [2] Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
    • [3] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Stefano Cavedagna (ECR)
    Last updated: 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Council position on the Sevilla Platform for Action and related initiatives – E-002857/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002857/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Fabio De Masi (NI)

    In the context of the recent Sevilla Platform for Action (SPA), which was presented at the United Nations’ fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, Brazil and Spain have proposed a project to establish an effective system of international tax cooperation. The project aims to enable the effective taxation of high-net-worth individuals by improving information sharing and establishing a global wealth registry. Notably, South Africa has recently joined this platform.

    Given the significant implications that this and similar initiatives have for advancing redistributive justice:

    • 1.Is this initiative supported by the Council and the Member States?
    • 2.What specific measures inspired by the SPA or related initiatives are currently being debated (or have been debated this year) by the Council?
    • 3.What concrete steps is the Council planning to take to promote international tax cooperation in this context?

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    Last updated: 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compliance of EDF funding of Intracom Defense with Regulation (EU) 2021/697 – E-002865/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002865/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Danilo Della Valle (The Left), Marc Botenga (The Left), Mounir Satouri (Verts/ALE), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left), Maria Zacharia (NI), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Pasquale Tridico (The Left), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Branislav Ondruš (NI), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Elisabeth Grossmann (S&D), Rima Hassan (The Left), Michael von der Schulenburg (NI), Irene Montero (The Left), Catarina Martins (The Left), Emma Fourreau (The Left)

    According to an international investigation by Investigate Europe, the Greek company Intracom Defense – the beneficiary of around EUR 14 million from the European Defence Fund (EDF) for the ACTUS drone project – is reportedly 95 % owned by the Israeli state-owned arms manufacturer Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), which is allegedly involved in the ongoing military operations in Gaza. Intracom’s financial reports indicate that IAI not only owns 95 % of its share capital but also holds 100 % of its voting rights. On 16 May 2024, Intracom announced its participation in three additional EDF-funded projects.

    Under Articles 10, 12 and 22 of Regulation (EU) 2021/697[1] establishing the EDF, entities controlled by non-EU countries may access funding only under strict safeguards, ensuring no unauthorised control, access, or transfer of project results to non-EU actors. The regulation also requires compliance with ethical standards, international law and fundamental rights.

    Given these concerns, can the Commission clarify:

    • 1.whether awarding EDF funding to a company under full control of a non-EU defence entity like IAI is compatible with Regulation (EU) 2021/697?
    • 2.whether it has conducted and documented a risk assessment excluding the possibility of direct or indirect transfer of EDF-funded results to the Israeli Government?
    • 3.whether it intends to open an investigation to verify compliance with regulatory and ethical obligations?

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2021/697 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2021 establishing the European Defence Fund (OJ L 170, 12.5.2021, p. 149, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/697/oj).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The MHRA and the global flu vaccine: How the UK is helping shape the world’s flu vaccine 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    The MHRA and the global flu vaccine: How the UK is helping shape the world’s flu vaccine 

    Ensuring the seasonal flu vaccine is ready, safe and effective involves months of international planning, testing and collaboration

    Each year, millions of people across the globe catch influenza, commonly known as the flu. While many recover quickly, flu can be deadly, particularly for older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. In the UK alone, seasonal flu can cause thousands of deaths in a bad year. This is why having an effective and up-to-date flu vaccine is crucial. 

    Millions of people around the world prepare for seasonal influenza by getting vaccinated. It’s something many of us take for granted – a quick injection at the GP or pharmacy. But behind the scenes, ensuring that vaccine is ready, safe, and effective involves months of international planning, testing, and collaboration. 

    At the heart of that global effort is the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) – the UK’s regulator for medicines and medical devices. The MHRA’s role goes far beyond approving medicines for the UK. It also leads on the international stage by hosting the MHRA Global Influenza Meeting, a key event that helps guide the development and delivery of the world’s flu vaccines. 

    Why the flu vaccine needs updating every year 

    Unlike some viruses, like measles, the influenza virus constantly changes and evolves. This means that last year’s vaccine may not protect against this year’s strains. Each year, scientists and regulators across the world work together to track the latest strains of the virus and decide which ones should be included in the next season’s vaccine. 

    The World Health Organization (WHO) leads this process through a network of research centres and laboratories known as Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System. However, transforming that scientific research and development into safe, effective, and timely licensed vaccines involves regulators. The MHRA plays a key role in both aspects. 

    A meeting 20 years in the making 

    This year marks the 40th MHRA influenza meeting, held twice a year for the past 20 years. This year, it was held last week. What began as a European-focused gathering has grown into a major global event, drawing together public health experts, scientists, manufacturers, and regulators from across the world. 

    As Dr Othmar Engelhardt, the MHRA’s Head of Seasonal Influenza and organiser of the meetings, explains, the MHRA provides “a well-established venue for discussions within the community, bringing together everyone involved in the process of producing and delivering the vaccine after the strains relevant to a particular season are recommended by the WHO strain selection committee.” 

    What happens at the meeting? 

    The aim of the meeting is to ensure that all players have the information they need to ensure that the provision of the annual flu vaccine is the best it can be – delivered on time, with as few hurdles as possible. It’s a forum to share science, streamline processes, and keep the world prepared. 

    Topics covered are wide-ranging, including: 

    • Update on influenza in the world: Which flu viruses are circulating globally, and which are most likely to pose a threat in the coming season? 

    • Reagents and standards: What laboratory materials are available for testing and manufacturing? How can the community help speed up access to these materials? 

    • Vaccine production updates: How ready are manufacturers for the upcoming flu season following the WHO strain recommendation, and what’s needed to smooth the supply chain? 

    Importantly, there is also a focus on zoonotic influenza – flu viruses that jump from animals, such as birds or pigs, to humans. These have the potential to spark the next influenza pandemic, so surveillance and preparation of potential vaccine candidates are essential. 

    The disappearance of B/Yamagata 

    One notable scientific development in recent years is the apparent disappearance of the B/Yamagata flu lineage since the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, flu vaccines were quadrivalent, meaning that they contained four virus components (two A types and two B types). Now, many have moved to a trivalent vaccine, with only three components – a shift that required regulatory review and approval. 

    Special topics: new vaccines and testing methods 

    Day three of the meeting was dedicated to a special topic, namely a workshop on new vaccine platforms and targets for influenza. As technology evolves, researchers are exploring faster and potentially more effective ways to develop, test and produce vaccines – including using mRNA technology and exploring universal flu vaccines (i.e. a vaccine against most flu strains -which would not have to be changed between seasons). 

    Another key area is vaccine potency (i.e. dose) testing. The current gold-standard method, called Single Radial Immunodiffusion (SRD), was developed in the 1970s by the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC), now part of the MHRA. Though still recommended by the WHO, researchers are now working on faster and more flexible alternatives, supported by a working group that reports back into the MHRA meeting. 

    The 40th meeting also featured reflections from former NIBSC/MHRA staff who were key contributors to SRD methodology, underscoring the UK’s longstanding leadership in this space. 

    MHRA’s international role 

    As one of the four WHO Essential Regulatory Laboratories (ERLs) – alongside labs in the US, Japan, and Australia – the MHRA plays a unique role. Its Influenza Resource Centre (IRC) helps develop candidate vaccine viruses (CVVs), ships CVVs and reagents around the world, contributes scientific expertise to vaccine strain selection, prepares biological standards and reagents for use in vaccine manufacture and testing, and our regulatory colleagues advise on the global regulatory process. 

    This role also places the MHRA at the forefront of pandemic preparedness, including contributing to the WHO’s Pandemic Influenza Vaccine Preparedness framework. This involves all the above. staying alert to emerging zoonotic threats and ensuring the global community is ready to respond. 

    A diverse and united audience 

    What makes the MHRA Global Influenza Meeting especially valuable is its diversity. It brings together the WHO, regulators, researchers and manufacturers in one open forum. In a field as complex and fast-moving as influenza, open communication is vital. 

    As Othmar noted, “The flu field can be difficult because the viruses change all the time, meaning that the vaccines have to change as well.” The meeting provides a rare opportunity for all the key players to align their goals, share progress, and prepare together. 

    Why it matters to the UK and the world 

    Ultimately, the MHRA’s role in facilitating this global collaboration helps ensure that flu vaccines are timely, safe, and effective, not just in the UK but across the world. From setting scientific standards to hosting crucial conversations, the MHRA continues to play a central role in protecting global health. 

    For us in the UK, this means protection each winter. For the global community, it means stronger defences against one of the world’s most common infectious threats. 

    So next time you’re offered a flu vaccination, remember that behind that quick appointment lies a year of global planning, science, and collaboration – with a lot of this happening right here in the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Registration for the second night bike festival has opened

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On website Registration has opened for the second night bike festival, which will take place on August 2. Cyclists will have to ride along the Garden Ring.

    For the first time in the history of Moscow cycling festivals, two night cycling festivals are being held this year. The first one, which took place on July 5, attracted a record number of participants – 45 thousand people.

    “We support the development of cycling culture in the capital, as instructed

    Sergei Sobyanin. At the request of city residents, we are holding two cycling festivals this summer. Registration for the second night cycling festival, which will take place on August 2, is already open. For the first time, the night ride will take place along the Garden Ring. We invite all fans of active recreation to join in,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    The festival town will open on Zubovskaya Square at 20:00. The entrance is from Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Street. The races will take place at 21:00, 22:00 and 23:00. Participants can choose a convenient time when registering.

    The event organizers remind that for comfort it is better to arrive at the time chosen during registration. For safety reasons it is recommended to use a helmet, bicycle lights, elbow and knee protection.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “iAM Smart” introduces new functions for viewing and paying government bills

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Digital Policy Office (DPO) announced today (July 22) that the “iAM Smart” mobile app is rolling out new functions progressively in its “Personal Assistant” page to enable viewing and paying of different government bills.
     
         Members of the public can now use the latest version of the “iAM Smart” mobile app (version 4.4) to check the balance of water bills from the Water Supplies Department (WSD) and Speedpost bills from Hongkong Post and pay the bills via the Faster Payment System.
     
         The DPO and WSD will continue to work closely to introduce more new functions in “iAM Smart” in the coming months. By then, members of the public will be able to use “iAM Smart” to check the “to-do” items related to their WSD accounts (for example, reminders to pay water bills) and the application status of various services (such as the application status of a fishing licence and a plumber’s licence from the WSD).
     
         The DPO will continue to work with different government departments and public and private organisations to include more services under the “Personal Assistant” page of “iAM Smart”, enabling members of the public to enjoy a better personalised service experience and a more convenient smart lifestyle.
     
         The “iAM Smart” one-stop personalised digital service platform has already accumulated over 3.5 million registered users and connects more than 1 200 online services from government, public and private organisations, as well as government e-Forms. The DPO will continue upgrading the “iAM Smart”, with the goal of providing one-stop digital services for all digital government services on the “iAM Smart” platform this year, making it the “single portal for online government services”. For more information on the online services supported by “iAM Smart”, please visit the “iAM Smart” thematic website at www.iamsmart.gov.hk/en/e-service.html.
     
         The “iAM Smart” app supports iOS and Android operating systems, and mobile phones with biometric authentication activated. Members of the public can download and use the latest version of the app for free from the Apple App Store, Huawei AppGallery, and Google Play, or by visiting the “iAM Smart” thematic website at www.iamsmart.gov.hk/en/download.html.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tenders invited for licence of fee-paying public car park at New Territories (Shatin) Forensic Medicine Centre

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Government Property Agency (GPA) is inviting tenders for a three-year licence of a fee-paying public car park on portions of the Second Floor of New Territories (Shatin) Forensic Medicine Centre, 7 Lower Shing Mun Road, Tai Wai, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong.

         The premises should only be used to operate a fee-paying public car park for the parking of private cars.

         The tender notice was uploaded today (July 22) to the GPA Property Portal: www.gpaproperty.gov.hk/en/index.html. Tender documents are available for collection at the GPA, 9/F, South Tower, West Kowloon Government Offices, 11 Hoi Ting Road, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, during the period from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, except public holidays. The documents can also be downloaded from the GPA Property Portal.

         Interested tenderers who wish to conduct a site inspection of the premises should make a prior appointment with the GPA by calling 3842 6783 by July 29.

         Tenderers must submit their tenders by placing them in the Government Logistics Department Tender Box placed on the Ground Floor, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong, before noon on August 12. Late tenders will not be accepted.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shek O Beach and Big Wave Bay Beach temporarily closed

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

         Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 22) that Shek O Beach and Big Wave Bay Beach in Southern District, Hong Kong Island, are temporarily closed until further notice for maintenance of the shark prevention nets. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beaches.

         Red flags at the beaches were hoisted earlier due to big waves at Shek O Beach and “Very Poor” predicted water quality at Big Wave Bay Beach, according to the Beach Water Quality Forecast System.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inland Revenue Department launches three new tax portals under eTAX

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) launched three new tax portals under eTAX today (July 22), namely the Individual Tax Portal (ITP), Business Tax Portal (BTP) and Tax Representative Portal (TRP), to further enhance the efficiency and user experience of electronic tax services.

         An IRD spokesman said, “The IRD is committed to promoting tax digitalisation and has been upgrading electronic tax services to provide convenience to taxpayers and enhance the efficiency, reliability and accuracy of return filing. The three new tax portals provide electronic tax services to individuals, businesses, and tax service agents respectively, allowing them to handle tax matters conveniently and efficiently.”

         The ITP offers a centralised platform for users to manage their personal tax matters, providing functions such as tax return filing, personal particulars updates and viewing of tax positions. Individual users may also use the ITP on their mobile devices anytime, anywhere via the “eTAX” mobile application launched by the IRD today.

         The BTP is specifically designed for businesses to handle tax matters and compliance obligations electronically, including tax return filing and business registration.

         The TRP caters to tax service agents (tax representatives, company secretaries and other tax service providers) to facilitate them in managing clients’ tax matters, including tax return filing and compliance tracking.

         “Profiles of existing eTAX users have been migrated to the ITP. They can use their registered information to log into the ITP. Businesses and service agents are encouraged to open an eTAX account as early as possible to handle tax matters electronically through the BTP and TRP in a safe, convenient and environmentally friendly way,” the spokesman said.

         Details about the three new tax portals are available on the IRD’s website.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of some LCSD facilities in Sha Tin District

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) announced today (July 22) that the facilities of Sha Tin District in the list below will be temporarily closed to facilitate preparations for the launching of the Para Dance Sport (Mass Participation Event) of the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games.
     

    Venue Closure Period Remarks
    Ma On Shan Sports Centre (MOSSC) August 19 – September 11 All facilities and the adjoining piazza will be temporarily closed
    Car park at Ma On Shan Swimming Pool September 1 – 8 All parking spaces will be temporarily closed

         The service for Ma On Shan Swimming Pool will not be affected. During the above period, members of the public may use similar facilities of the other sports centres and the car park at Ma On Shan Sports Ground in the same district.

         For enquiries, please call the MOSSC at 2631 1597.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo to consider Legislative Council (Powers and Privileges) (Amendment) Bill 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

         The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting tomorrow (July 23) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. During the meeting, the Second Reading debate on the Legislative Council (Powers and Privileges) (Amendment) Bill 2025 will resume. If the Bill is supported by Members and receives its Second Reading, it will stand committed to the committee of the whole Council. After the committee of the whole Council has completed consideration of the Bill and its report is adopted by the Council, the Bill will be set down for the Third Reading.

         The Second Reading debates on the Promotion of Recycling and Proper Disposal of Products (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2025 and the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (Amendment) Bill 2025 will also resume. If the Bills are supported by Members and receive their Second Reading, they will stand committed to the committee of the whole Council. After the committee of the whole Council has completed consideration of the Bills and their reports are adopted by the Council, the Bills will be set down for the Third Reading.

         Meanwhile, the Supplementary Appropriation (2024-2025) Bill will be introduced into the Council for the First Reading and the Second Reading. The Second Reading debate on the Bill will be adjourned.

         On Members’ motions, Mr Paul Tse will move two proposed resolutions under Article 75 of the Basic Law and the Legislative Council (Powers and Privileges) Ordinance respectively to enhance the operation of LegCo. The proposed resolutions are set out in Appendices 1 and 2.

         Ms Judy Chan will move a motion on improving the policy on encouraging childbirth. The motion is set out in Appendix 3. Ms Nixie Lam, Mr Luk Chung-hung and Mr Kenneth Leung will move separate amendments to Ms Chan’s motion.

         Mr Chan Pui-leung will move a motion on addressing the retirement needs of the middle class and building a high-quality health and wellness ecosystem. The motion is set out in Appendix 4. Mr Robert Lee, Mr Stanley Li and Dr Tan Yueheng will move separate amendments to Mr Chan’s motion.

         Ms Nixie Lam will move a proposed resolution under section 34(4) of the Interpretation and General Clauses Ordinance to extend the period for amending subsidiary legislation. The proposed resolution is set out in Appendix 5.

         During the meeting, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Mr Shiu Ka-fai, will present the “Report of the Public Accounts Committee on Report No. 84 of the Director of Audit on the Results of Value for Money Audits” and address the Council.

         Members will also ask the Government 22 questions on various policy areas, six of which require oral replies.

         The agenda of the above meeting can be obtained via the LegCo Website (www.legco.gov.hk). Members of the public can watch or listen to the meeting via the “Webcast” system on the LegCo Website. To observe the proceedings of the meeting at the LegCo Complex, members of the public may call 3919 3399 during office hours to reserve seats.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over 2 300 quality job vacancies to be offered at Building a Multicultural Workplace Job Fair

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Labour Department (LD) will hold the Building a Multicultural Workplace Job Fair at MacPherson Stadium in Mong Kok on July 24 and 25. The job fair aims to enhance the employment opportunities of job seekers, including those from ethnic minorities, and promote the LD’s employment services to them.

         The two-day job fair is jointly organised by the LD and the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) Ethnic Minorities Committee, with the Equal Opportunities Commission as the co-organiser. About 50 organisations will participate in the job fair, offering over 2 300 quality job vacancies. Around 25 organisations will set up booths and conduct recruitment on the spot each day. A wide variety of positions will be offered, including engineer, accountant, human resources officer, guest services officer, administrative assistant, clerk, aircraft maintenance mechanic trainee, railway technical trainee, technical manager, system analyst, equestrian assistant, barista, spa therapist, nail technician trainee and lifeguard. Job seekers can visit the LD’s Interactive Employment Service website (www.jobs.gov.hk) for more details on the vacancies.

         Four major disciplinary forces, namely the Correctional Services Department, the Fire Services Department, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Immigration Department, will set up counters to introduce their career opportunities and entry requirements. In addition, the DAB Ethnic Minorities Committee will introduce its support services for people from ethnic minorities at the job fair. Training bodies will also provide information on training courses to visitors. On-site interpretation services in Hindi, Urdu and Nepali will be available. During the job fair on July 24, career talks on various professions will also be held.

         Around 93 per cent of the vacancies offered at the job fair are full-time jobs. Most vacancies offer monthly salaries ranging from $12,000 to $22,000. About 90 per cent of the vacancies require a Secondary Seven education level or below. Around 66 per cent are open to job seekers without relevant work experience.

         Job seekers can submit job applications during the event and may be selected for on-the-spot interviews. They can also make enquiries about the employment services provided by the LD at its counter at the venue.

         The job fair will be held from 11am to 5.30pm at 1/F, MacPherson Stadium, 38 Nelson Street, Mong Kok (near Mong Kok MTR Station Exit E2). Admission is free, with final admission time at 5pm each day.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic and transport arrangements for football matches and training sessions at Kai Tak Sports Park and Hong Kong Stadium between July 24 and 31

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Transport Department (TD) today (July 22) said that, to facilitate the holding of football matches and training sessions on specific dates in designated venues between July 24 and 31, the following special traffic and transport arrangements will be implemented in the vicinity of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) and the Hong Kong Stadium (HKS) to provide convenience for spectators to travel to and from the venues:

    Open training sessions

    Prior to the matches, open training sessions of the football clubs will be held at the KTSP around the evening of July 24, 29 and 30 and the HKS on the evening of July 25.

    As the dispersal time of the events will fall within the evening peak hours, the MTR will enhance the service headway of the Tuen Ma Line (TML) and the Island Line on respective days as needed to meet the passenger demand. The Police will implement temporary road closure and traffic diversion measures in the vicinity of the KTSP (depending on actual traffic and crowd conditions) and the HKS. Members of the public should heed advice from on-site police.

    Football matches

         Football matches will be held on the evening of July 26 and 31 at the KTSP. As the traffic in the vicinity is expected to be heavy, spectators should opt for public transport and avoid taking private cars (including cross-boundary private cars).

         The TD has co-ordinated with local and cross-boundary public transport operators (PTOs) to strengthen their services during dispersal. The MTR will enhance the interval between trains of the TML. Franchised bus companies will provide a total of 11 special bus routes at the Sung Wong Toi Road Pick-up/Drop-off Area (PUDOA) to Lok Ma Chau (San Tin) Public Transport Interchange (PTI), the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port and Airport, and major districts across the territory.

         In addition, the KTSP will arrange cross-boundary coach services during dispersal to facilitate travellers’ return to the Mainland via the Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang (LMC/HG) Port, the HZMB and the Shenzhen Bay Port. Passengers should purchase tickets in advance. On-site ticket sales will not be available during dispersal. They should refer to the operators’ website (Eternal East Bus: www.myeebus.com/eebusfans; CTG Bus: m.hkctgbus.com/#/layout/home) for the latest ticket information.

         For taxi services, the Kai Tak Stadium Taxi PUDOA will be open for taxi pick-up and drop-off. The Sung Wong Toi Road PUDOA will be open for taxi drop-off only during admission (4pm to 7.30pm) and suspended from taxi pick-up/drop-off during dispersal. The expected waiting time will be longer amid an outflux of spectators and passengers’ patience is appreciated.

         Spectators who plan to return to the Mainland on the same day after the matches should pay special attention that, if they use the Lo Wu Control Point, they should catch the last relevant MTR TML train departing from Sung Wong Toi Station at 10.59pm and Kai Tak Station at 11.01pm, followed by interchanging at Tai Wai Station on the East Rail Line (ERL) to Lo Wu Station. Travellers should plan their journeys ahead and arrive at the station platform in advance.

         Travellers who opt for LMC/HG Port (operating 24 hours daily) may also take the ERL to Sheung Shui Station and then the KMB route No. 276B or N73, or take the special bus route No. SP12 directly at the Sung Wong Toi Road PUDOA to the Lok Ma Chau (San Tin) PTI, and transfer to the LMC-HG cross-boundary shuttle bus (Yellow Bus) for their journey to the Mainland.

    For details of the special traffic and transport arrangements, members of the public may refer to the TD’s website (www.td.gov.hk), the “HKeMobility” mobile application or passenger notices issued by PTOs as well as the latest traffic news through radio and television broadcasts. Spectators at the KTSP are advised to heed the real-time information via the on-site broadcast and the “Easy Leave” platform (easyleave.police.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Police remind public of establishment of temporary restricted flying zones

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Hong Kong Police Force today (July 22) reminded members of the public that temporary restricted flying zones (RFZs) will be established in the area around the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground and the Hong Kong Stadium from today to July 31, in order to facilitate special events and ensure public safety. No small unmanned aircraft (SUA), except those authorised, will be permitted to enter these zones.

         The two temporary RFZs will cover areas extending two kilometers outwards from the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground and the Hong Kong Stadium respectively (see the area marked in red in the attachment). The effective dates and times are as follows:

    Area around the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground
    ————————————————

    • From 9.15am to 1.30pm on July 22, 24 to 26;
    • From 9.15am to 1.30pm, and from 4pm to 7.30pm on July 23; and
    • From 8.30am to 1.40pm between July 29 and 31

    Area around the Hong Kong Stadium
    —————————————

    • From 8.30am to 1pm, and from 6.30pm to 9.30pm on July 25; and
    • From 8.30am to 1.30pm on July 31

         Details of the temporary RFZs will be shown on the electronic portal for small unmanned aircraft “eSUA”. The Police reminded the public that any person who operates an SUA within an RFZ without permission shall be liable on conviction to a fine of $100 000 and to imprisonment for two years.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Instruction for Use for rapid antigen test kit needs to be updated

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Department of Health (DH) announced today (July 22) that it had received a notification from the supplier of a rapid antigen test (RAT) stating that a product’s Instruction for Use (IFU) needed to be updated to avoid users misinterpreting the test results. The product information is as follows:

    Name: Ten Respiratory Pathogens Antigen Test Kit
    Supplier: SAVEWO Distribution Limited
    Manufacturer: Anhui Deepblue Medical Technology Co., Ltd
    Model number: RP1011N-1
    Lot numbers: 20250301 and 20250501

    According to information provided by the supplier in Hong Kong, the product in question is an all-in-one test for 10 types of respiratory pathogens, including influenza, COVID-19 and H5N1 avian influenza. It has been distributed in the local retail market since March this year. Following internal testing, the manufacturer has updated the IFU to state that if the H5N1 detection zone is positive but the FIuA+B/COV detection zone is negative, the H5N1 avian influenza test result is invalid.

    The supplier has uploaded the updated IFU to its official website. Members of the public who have purchased the affected batch of products are advised to contact the supplier at 5503 2370 if they have any queries regarding their RAT test results.

    The product concerned is a Class C (moderate-high risk) In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Device and is not listed under the DH’s Medical Device Administrative Control System (MDACS).

    The DH reminded members of the public that all RATs have limitations, including the possibility of false negative or false positive results. Therefore, RAT test results can only be used for reference purposes and cannot replace the professional diagnosis by doctors. Members of the public should consult healthcare professionals if they have doubts about the results of RATs.

    Separately, the DH has introduced a voluntary MDACS, under which a listing system for medical devices and traders, as well as a post-market monitoring system, is in place to ensure that medical devices supplied in Hong Kong meet the safety, quality and performance requirements. Information on listed medical devices is uploaded to the website of the DH’s Medical Device Division (www.mdd.gov.hk/en/mdacs/search-database/list-md/index.html). The DH advised members of the public to purchase medical devices listed under the MDACS wherever possible to ensure that the products meet the standards on safety, quality and performance.

    The DH will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa’s police serve the ANC insiders, not the people: here’s how it happened

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ivor Chipkin, Professional Professor, GIBS, University of Pretoria

    After South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994, there was significant optimism about police reform in the country. Impressive steps were taken to bring the South African Police Service under civilian control and to create a service responsive to calls for assistance from the public.

    During the apartheid period, South Africa’s police worked to preserve the political order and pursue political opponents. It did not focus on dealing with crime. This is why the achievements of the 1990s are so important. For the first time, black South Africans could call upon officers to respond to personal emergencies. This period also saw a drop in crime levels.

    However, this promising early transformation was interrupted. The appointment of Jackie Selebi as national police commissioner in 2000 heralded a new era. Selebi was an African National Congress (ANC) insider. The ANC originated as a liberation movement and has governed the country since 1994.

    Selebi had served as the head of the ANC’s Youth League in the 1980s, when it was banned. In 1987 he was appointed to the organisation’s national executive committee, its highest decision-making organ.

    His appointment as police commissioner was the start of significant change in the purpose of policing. It marked the end of the focus on civilian control of the police force and prosecuting authorities. As an ANC insider, Selebi led efforts to establish party control over the police.

    This politicisation gained momentum over the next two decades. In the early years it was exemplified by the suspension of the head of the National Prosecuting Authority, Advocate Vusi Pikoli,, by then president Thabo Mbeki, amid corruption allegations against Selebi himself.

    Other telling developments ensued. The Scorpions were disbanded in 2009 by acting president Kgalema Motlanthe. The unit’s job was to pursue high-profile cases against senior ANC politicians (among others).

    The police became increasingly entangled in the ANC’s internal political conflicts. At the same time the office of the national police commissioner experienced high turnover due to intense political manoeuvring. Between 2009 and 2022, there were seven national commissioners.

    Recent developments have once again brought the intermingling of police work and power battles in the ANC to the fore. In early July 2025, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the commissioner of police in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, made some startling claims. He called a press conference and, wearing camouflage uniform, he implicated the minister of police, Senzo Mchunu, together with the deputy national commissioner for crime detection, in a scheme to close down investigations into political assassinations in the province.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa rushed back from a meeting of the Brics countries in Brazil to attend to the matter. He announced that the police minister had been placed on leave with immediate effect. He also announced a judicial inquiry into the allegations.

    I have conducted research into South Africa’s security apparatus over the last decade. Based on this work, and new research forthcoming in the Journal of Southern African Studies done with Jelena Vidojevic, co-founder of the New South Institute, it is clear that elite contestation in the ANC is intensifying.

    In other words, the ability of internal party structures to manage gatekeeping is declining. Many of the people involved are indifferent or even hostile to South Africa’s democratic and constitutional order.

    As the ability of some political elites to access state resources through the party declines, some are linked with organised criminal networks. Organised crime has been on the edges of South African politics. It now risks taking a more central role.

    In this environment, the police service will often be the thin (blue) line between multiparty contestation according to constitutional rules and the criminalisation of politics in South Africa.

    The shift

    Large organisational changes within the police vividly illustrate this shift away from its core function.

    The Visible Policing programme was meant to meant to deter crime through patrols, checkpoints and roadblocks. But, instead, there was a steady decline in resource allocation. Employee numbers dropped between 2015 and 2021.

    Detective services and crime intelligence also experienced such declines.

    Conversely, employee numbers in the Protection and Security Services programme, responsible for providing bodyguards to politicians, increased sharply between 2014 and 2016.

    Evidence heard by the commission of inquiry into state capture suggested that some officers and budgets in the service were even used to supply President Jacob Zuma and other politicians with what amounted to a private militia.

    This reorientation of resources coincided with a rise in crime across the country, a decline in arrests by 24.5%, and a drop in the police’s efficacy in solving crimes.

    Furthermore, a politicised police leadership effectively stopped policing various categories of crime. This was particularly true of offences like fraud, corruption, and certain types of theft, and particularly when politically connected persons were involved.

    The state capture commission heard extensive evidence about the failure of the police to pursue politically sensitive investigations. Investigations into senior officials were frequently frustrated or impeded, and cases at state-owned enterprises were abandoned.

    This shows how police resources were actively redirected as weapons of elite competition, pursuing political enemies and protecting allies within the ruling party.

    Mkhwanazi’s claims, if substantiated, suggest that this political policing remains entrenched.

    What now?

    Ramaphosa has announced the appointment of Firoz Cachalia as the acting minister of police. Cachalia, a well regarded legal academic, served as ANC minister for community safety. Between 2019 and 2022 he was part of the ANC’s national executive committee.

    His appointment raises serious questions.

    If the core problem with the police is that it has become embroiled in ANC internal politics, having an ANC insider head the ministry of police (even if only on an acting basis) threatens only to compound the problem.

    Moreover, South Africans have already witnessed a long and expensive judicial inquiry into state capture. And despite extensive evidence of police failure to pursue politically sensitive investigations, nothing concrete has come of it.

    How likely is it that this new initiative will be any different, especially if those investigating it and presiding over key institutions are themselves ANC insiders?

    To depoliticise the police service and redirect its attention and activities towards crime and emergencies, a crucial first step is to reconsider the appointment processes for the national police commissioner and other top managers.

    Under the current system the president has sole discretion. This bakes party-political considerations into the decision-making process.

    Without structural changes, genuine democratic policing will remain an elusive ideal.

    In 2024/25 the murder rate in South Africa stood at 42 per 100,000, among the highest in the world and close to levels not seen since the early 2000s.

    At the very least, the minister of police must not be an ANC insider. Democratic renewal in South Africa requires bringing the police firmly under parliamentary control.

    – South Africa’s police serve the ANC insiders, not the people: here’s how it happened
    – https://theconversation.com/south-africas-police-serve-the-anc-insiders-not-the-people-heres-how-it-happened-261301

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: KZN steps up FMD fight with widespread vaccination drive

    Source: Government of South Africa

    While the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has made significant progress in containing the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in affected areas, non-compliance by some commercial farmers continues to undermine control efforts.

    Speaking to SAnews on the sidelines of the national Foot and Mouth Disease Indaba, currently underway at the ARC-VIMP Campus in Roodeplaat, northeast of Pretoria, KwaZulu-Natal Agriculture and Rural Development Chief Director for Veterinary Services, Dr Themba Sikhakhane, said the province is on course in managing the outbreak.

    “We have made great strides, especially in communal areas like Newcastle in the Amajuba District, where the initial outbreak occurred. There, we have vaccinated over 600 000 animals,” said Sikhakhane.

    However, Sikhakhane expressed concern over the conduct of some commercial farmers, who hide their animals after seeing symptoms of FMD, and move them.

    “When they [commercial farmers] see clear symptoms of FMD, they hide the animals, which is impossible to do because your neighbour and everyone will see it. We strongly believe that this is the reason we find feedlot that have animals coming up late on their management with the symptoms,” Sikhakhane told SAnews.

    He added that effective containment will require active cooperation from the beef industry and farmer organisations, particularly in addressing these practices.

    Hotspots and disease transmission

    Sikhakhane said the Amajuba and uMzinyathi Districts remain the most affected by the outbreak, with recent cases also detected in one or two dairy operations.

    He said investigations are underway to determine how the disease reached these facilities.

    “We know FMD is spread by people [and] in communal areas, it is often due to lack of fencing and free movement of unvaccinated livestock. We know the permanent FMD sources around Hluhluwe Game Reserve and other smaller reserves, where animals test positive,” Sikhakhane said.

    The department is expanding its containment measures, including the deployment of dip tank dip facilities.

    Sikhakhane confirmed that 14 dip tanks will be completed this week in the King Cetshwayo District, with work beginning next week in Mtubatuba and Nongoma municipalities, where 76 additional dip tanks are planned.

    “It is in control, only if we can get assistance from red meat producers to contain the spread with the commercial farmers. Our farmers in communal setup are cooperating, we just need these few commercial farmers to work with government and stop this problem,” Sikhakhane said.

    Held under the theme: “Building a Resilient System to Fight FMD,” the FMD Indaba comes at a time when South Africa is grappling with widespread outbreaks across several provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and most recently, the Free State.

    Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, alongside Deputy Minister Nokuzola Capa, is leading the national effort in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

    The Indaba has drawn participation from provincial leaders, including Free State MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs Elizabeth Cornelia Rockman, KZN Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, and Limpopo Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Nakedi Sibanda-Kekana.

    Maintaining FMD-free zones 

    In his opening address, Steenhuisen emphasised the need to confront the infrastructure deficit in the country’s protection zones.
    He underscored the urgent need to address infrastructure gaps within the country’s FMD protection zones.

    “As long as animals are forced to be moved illegally because of the absence of local abattoirs or feedlots, we will never be able to enforce movement control effectively,” the Minister said.

    He stressed that the issue extends beyond veterinary science,

    “This is not just a veterinary issue; it is a spatial planning and rural development issue. That is why we will be earmarking funds in this fiscal year to support the establishment of feedlots and abattoirs within the protection zones, particularly in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga.

    “These facilities will provide alternatives to illicit trade. They will create rural jobs. Furthermore, they will help us enforce the very measures we need to maintain our FMD-free zones,” the Minister said – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Gauteng Legislature urges swift action following mass shooting incident

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Tuesday, July 22, 2025

    The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has called for an intensified clampdown on illegal taverns following a shooting at a local tavern in Olievenhoutbosch.

    Preliminary reports suggest that some five people were left dead and three others injured when ten people entered the tavern and fired indiscriminately at patrons.

    “While the motive behind the attack remains under investigation, early indications suggest possible links to ongoing turf wars involving illegal foreign nationals allegedly connected to illicit mining operations. It has also been reported that the tavern was operating without the required licenses and that its owner is an undocumented foreign national.

    “This incident underscores the urgent need for law enforcement and local authorities to intensify efforts to shut down illegal establishments operating outside the bounds of regulatory and legal frameworks,” the committee said in a statement on Monday.

    Those with any information relating to Friday’s tragedy are urged to report it to police.
    “The committee views this brutal attack as a direct assault on the rule of law and a grave threat to the safety and well-being of Gauteng residents and South Africans at large. It also evokes painful memories of previous mass shootings in the province, including the 2022 Orlando tavern massacre and the 2023 Daveyton tragedy.

    “In light of this, the [committee]…appeals to members of the Olievenhoutbosch community and the broader public to assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice. The fight against crime cannot be won by the police alone. The more the community gets involved, the greater the chances of success.

    “No piece of information is too small, and all tips will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Anyone with information is urged to contact the South African Police Service immediately,” the statement read.

    Furthermore, police were urged to prioritise the case and “ensure the swift apprehension of the suspects who continue to undermine public safety and the rule of law”.

    “While acknowledging the complex socio-economic factors that contribute to migration, the Committee remains deeply concerned about the involvement of some undocumented foreign nationals in serious and violent crimes. 

    “It urges law enforcement agencies to strengthen efforts to curb illegal activities perpetrated by individuals operating outside the country’s legal and immigration laws,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: South Africa’s police serve the ANC insiders, not the people: here’s how it happened

    Source: The Conversation – Africa (2) – By Ivor Chipkin, Professional Professor, GIBS, University of Pretoria

    After South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994, there was significant optimism about police reform in the country. Impressive steps were taken to bring the South African Police Service under civilian control and to create a service responsive to calls for assistance from the public.

    During the apartheid period, South Africa’s police worked to preserve the political order and pursue political opponents. It did not focus on dealing with crime. This is why the achievements of the 1990s are so important. For the first time, black South Africans could call upon officers to respond to personal emergencies. This period also saw a drop in crime levels.

    However, this promising early transformation was interrupted. The appointment of Jackie Selebi as national police commissioner in 2000 heralded a new era. Selebi was an African National Congress (ANC) insider. The ANC originated as a liberation movement and has governed the country since 1994.

    Selebi had served as the head of the ANC’s Youth League in the 1980s, when it was banned. In 1987 he was appointed to the organisation’s national executive committee, its highest decision-making organ.

    His appointment as police commissioner was the start of significant change in the purpose of policing. It marked the end of the focus on civilian control of the police force and prosecuting authorities. As an ANC insider, Selebi led efforts to establish party control over the police.

    This politicisation gained momentum over the next two decades. In the early years it was exemplified by the suspension of the head of the National Prosecuting Authority, Advocate Vusi Pikoli,, by then president Thabo Mbeki, amid corruption allegations against Selebi himself.

    Other telling developments ensued. The Scorpions were disbanded in 2009 by acting president Kgalema Motlanthe. The unit’s job was to pursue high-profile cases against senior ANC politicians (among others).

    The police became increasingly entangled in the ANC’s internal political conflicts. At the same time the office of the national police commissioner experienced high turnover due to intense political manoeuvring. Between 2009 and 2022, there were seven national commissioners.

    Recent developments have once again brought the intermingling of police work and power battles in the ANC to the fore. In early July 2025, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the commissioner of police in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, made some startling claims. He called a press conference and, wearing camouflage uniform, he implicated the minister of police, Senzo Mchunu, together with the deputy national commissioner for crime detection, in a scheme to close down investigations into political assassinations in the province.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa rushed back from a meeting of the Brics countries in Brazil to attend to the matter. He announced that the police minister had been placed on leave with immediate effect. He also announced a judicial inquiry into the allegations.

    I have conducted research into South Africa’s security apparatus over the last decade. Based on this work, and new research forthcoming in the Journal of Southern African Studies done with Jelena Vidojevic, co-founder of the New South Institute, it is clear that elite contestation in the ANC is intensifying.

    In other words, the ability of internal party structures to manage gatekeeping is declining. Many of the people involved are indifferent or even hostile to South Africa’s democratic and constitutional order.

    As the ability of some political elites to access state resources through the party declines, some are linked with organised criminal networks. Organised crime has been on the edges of South African politics. It now risks taking a more central role.

    In this environment, the police service will often be the thin (blue) line between multiparty contestation according to constitutional rules and the criminalisation of politics in South Africa.

    The shift

    Large organisational changes within the police vividly illustrate this shift away from its core function.

    The Visible Policing programme was meant to meant to deter crime through patrols, checkpoints and roadblocks. But, instead, there was a steady decline in resource allocation. Employee numbers dropped between 2015 and 2021.

    Detective services and crime intelligence also experienced such declines.

    Conversely, employee numbers in the Protection and Security Services programme, responsible for providing bodyguards to politicians, increased sharply between 2014 and 2016.

    Evidence heard by the commission of inquiry into state capture suggested that some officers and budgets in the service were even used to supply President Jacob Zuma and other politicians with what amounted to a private militia.

    This reorientation of resources coincided with a rise in crime across the country, a decline in arrests by 24.5%, and a drop in the police’s efficacy in solving crimes.

    Furthermore, a politicised police leadership effectively stopped policing various categories of crime. This was particularly true of offences like fraud, corruption, and certain types of theft, and particularly when politically connected persons were involved.

    The state capture commission heard extensive evidence about the failure of the police to pursue politically sensitive investigations. Investigations into senior officials were frequently frustrated or impeded, and cases at state-owned enterprises were abandoned.

    This shows how police resources were actively redirected as weapons of elite competition, pursuing political enemies and protecting allies within the ruling party.

    Mkhwanazi’s claims, if substantiated, suggest that this political policing remains entrenched.

    What now?

    Ramaphosa has announced the appointment of Firoz Cachalia as the acting minister of police. Cachalia, a well regarded legal academic, served as ANC minister for community safety. Between 2019 and 2022 he was part of the ANC’s national executive committee.

    His appointment raises serious questions.

    If the core problem with the police is that it has become embroiled in ANC internal politics, having an ANC insider head the ministry of police (even if only on an acting basis) threatens only to compound the problem.

    Moreover, South Africans have already witnessed a long and expensive judicial inquiry into state capture. And despite extensive evidence of police failure to pursue politically sensitive investigations, nothing concrete has come of it.

    How likely is it that this new initiative will be any different, especially if those investigating it and presiding over key institutions are themselves ANC insiders?

    To depoliticise the police service and redirect its attention and activities towards crime and emergencies, a crucial first step is to reconsider the appointment processes for the national police commissioner and other top managers.

    Under the current system the president has sole discretion. This bakes party-political considerations into the decision-making process.

    Without structural changes, genuine democratic policing will remain an elusive ideal.

    In 2024/25 the murder rate in South Africa stood at 42 per 100,000, among the highest in the world and close to levels not seen since the early 2000s.

    At the very least, the minister of police must not be an ANC insider. Democratic renewal in South Africa requires bringing the police firmly under parliamentary control.

    Ivor Chipkin teaches public policy at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) at the University of Pretoria. He is the director of the New South Institute.

    – ref. South Africa’s police serve the ANC insiders, not the people: here’s how it happened – https://theconversation.com/south-africas-police-serve-the-anc-insiders-not-the-people-heres-how-it-happened-261301

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IBCA Community Update, 22 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    IBCA Community Update, 22 July 2025

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 21 May 2025

    Documents

    IBCA Community Update, 22 July 2025

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    Details

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 21 May 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK to lead crackdown on cyber criminals with ransomware measures

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK to lead crackdown on cyber criminals with ransomware measures

    Measures to tackle the threat of ransomware and protect businesses and critical services will be taken forward with industry following public consultation.

    Image: Getty Images

    Hospitals, businesses, and critical services are set to be protected under measures designed to crack down on cyber criminals and safeguard the public, following public consultation on ransomware proposals.

    Ransomware is software used maliciously by cyber criminals to access victims’ computer systems. Systems and data can be encrypted, or data stolen, until a ransom is paid. Ransomware is estimated to cost the UK economy millions of pounds each year, with recent high-profile ransomware attacks highlighting the severe operational, financial, and even life-threatening risks. 

    Public sector bodies and operators of critical national infrastructure, including the NHS, local councils and schools, would be banned from paying ransom demands to criminals under the measure, with nearly three quarters of consultation respondents showing support for the proposal.

    The ban would target the business model that fuels cyber criminals’ activities and makes the vital services the public rely on a less attractive target for ransomware groups.    

    Under the proposals, businesses not covered by the ban would be required to notify the government of any intent to pay a ransom. The government could then provide those businesses with advice and support, including notifying them if any such payment would risk breaking the law by sending money to sanctioned cyber criminal groups, many of whom are based in Russia.  

    Mandatory reporting is also being developed, which would equip law enforcement with essential intelligence to hunt down perpetrators and disrupt their activities, allowing for better support for victims. Consultation responses showed strong support for a new mandatory reporting regime to better protect British organisations and industry.

    The new package of measures will lead the way in tackling ransomware and are designed to strike against cyber criminals’ business model, bolstering our national security and protecting key services and businesses from disruption – delivering on our Plan for Change. They follow an extensive consultation with stakeholders across the UK which showed strong public backing for tougher action to tackle ransomware and protect vital services. 

    Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:  

    Ransomware is a predatory crime that puts the public at risk, wrecks livelihoods and threatens the services we depend on. 

    That’s why we’re determined to smash the cyber criminal business model and protect the services we all rely on as we deliver our Plan for Change. 

    By working in partnership with industry to advance these measures, we are sending a clear signal that the UK is united in the fight against ransomware.

    In addition to the proposed new measures, the government continues to urge organisations across the country to strengthen their ability to maintain operations in the event of a successful ransomware attack. This includes having offline backups, tested plans to operate without IT for an extended period, and a well-rehearsed strategy for restoring systems from backups. 

    Cyber criminals have not only cost the nation billions of pounds but in some cases have brought essential services to a standstill.   

    The devastating consequences are not just financial but can put lives in danger, with an NHS organisation recently identifying a ransomware attack as one of the factors that contributed to a patient’s death.

    These attacks have brutally exposed the alarming vulnerability at the core of our public and private institutions, from flagship British retailers and essential supermarkets including the Co-op to NHS hospitals.  

    British Library Chief Executive Rebecca Lawrence said:

    The British Library, which holds one of the world’s most significant collections of human knowledge, was the victim of a devastating ransomware attack in October 2023.

    The attack destroyed our technology infrastructure and continues to impact our users, however, as a public body, we did not engage with the attackers or pay the ransom. Instead, we are committed to sharing our experiences to help protect other institutions affected by cyber-crime and build collective resilience for the future.

    NCSC Director of National Resilience Jonathon Ellison said:

    These new measures help undermine the criminal ecosystem that is causing harm across our economy.

    Ransomware remains a serious and evolving threat, and organisations must not become complacent. All businesses should strengthen their defences using proven frameworks such as Cyber Essentials and our free Early Warning service, and be prepared to respond to incidents, recover quickly, and maintain continuity if the worst happens.

    Co-op CEO Shirine Khoury-Haq said:

    We know first-hand the damage and disruption cyber-attacks cause to businesses and communities. That’s why we welcome the government’s focus on Cyber Crime.

    What matters most is learning, building resilience, and supporting each other to prevent future harm. This is a step in the right direction for building a safer digital future.  

    These robust proposals are part of the government’s Plan for Change to defend businesses, services, and infrastructure against cyber threats to better protect the public.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National security powers to be updated to reduce the burden on businesses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    National security powers to be updated to reduce the burden on businesses

    Investment security rules under the National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 will be simplified to ease the burden on businesses as part of the Plan for Change.

    • Plans to reduce unnecessary red tape for businesses by ensuring mandatory notifications are no longer needed for certain internal reorganisations and the appointment of liquidators 
    • New consultation will put businesses at the heart of potential changes to the sectors facing the greatest scrutiny by the government’s investment security powers
    • Semiconductors, Critical Minerals carved out into standalone sectors and Water to be considered for addition to list of sensitive sectors 
    • NSIA Annual Report shows just 4.5% of notifications were called in for review, with the vast majority cleared to proceed in 30 days  

    Investment security rules under the National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 will be simplified to ease the burden on businesses as part of the Plan for Change. 

    The changes, currently being developed, will when they come into force reduce unnecessary bureaucracy for businesses, no longer requiring them to notify the Cabinet Office’s Investment Security Unit when undertaking certain types of internal reorganisations or appointing liquidators, special administrators and official receivers. 

    Analysis has shown these types of transactions rarely warrant investigation. Simplifying the rules will ease the regulatory burden and help the government focus its attention on the deals presenting greater risk to national security.

    Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden said: 

    The government has been clear about our ambition to cut red tape for businesses, while taking firm action to protect national security as we deliver the Plan for Change. 

    Data shows our investment security powers are working well, but there’s more we can do to ensure our tool kit keeps pace with the modern economy. We’re taking action to hone the type of transactions facing the greatest scrutiny, as well as consulting on updates to the sectors of the economy specified in the legislation. Businesses are at the heart of these plans and I look forward to engaging widely in the weeks ahead.

    The announcement comes as the government also publishes a new consultation—due to launch on 22 July and conclude on 14 October—-on separate plans to update the sectors of the economy subject to greater scrutiny under the National Security and Investment Act 2021. 

    Acquirers of businesses operating in seventeen sensitive sectors must currently notify the Investment Security Unit about relevant acquisitions before the deal can be completed. These sectors were first defined in 2021 and have not been updated since. 

    Building on business feedback, and to improve clarity and bring the sectors up to date with the latest economic and technological developments, the government is proposing creating new standalone categories for Semiconductors and Critical Minerals, which currently fall under the Advanced Materials sector. Computing Hardware, which is currently a standalone sector, would move under the Semiconductors sector. 

    Pat McFadden has also requested businesses’ views on bringing certain deals in the water sector into scope of the NSI Act’s mandatory notification requirements. This new requirement, while not expected to affect large numbers of deals, reflects increasing risks to the sector’s resilience in a growing threat landscape.

    Alongside the reforms and consultation, the Cabinet Office is also publishing the National Security and Investment Act Annual Report. This sets out the Investment Security Unit’s activity between 2024-2025. 

    It shows that the government saw an increase in the number of notifications received year on year, rising from 906 to 1,143.

    Similar to last year, only 4.5% of notified acquisitions reviewed were called in for further assessment, with the vast majority of businesses notified within 30 working days that no further action would be taken.

    The government issued 17 final orders: 16 allowing the acquisitions to proceed subject to conditions and one requiring divestment. 

    Like last year, the largest proportion of notifications involved acquisitions in the Defence, Critical Suppliers to Government and Military & Dual Use areas of the economy, and acquirers associated with the UK, followed by the US. 

    Of the 17 final orders issued, the largest number involved acquirers associated with the UK, followed by acquirers associated with China and acquirers associated with the USA. Defence and Military & Dual Use acquisitions also accounted for the largest number of final orders.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –