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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Selects Companies for Architect-Engineer Services Contract

    Source: NASA

    NASA has selected seven companies to assist the agency with architectural and engineering services at multiple agency centers and facilities.
    The Western Regional Architect-Engineer Services is an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award contract has a total estimated value not to exceed $75 million. The contract was awarded on July 14 with a five-year period of performance with the possibility of a six-month extension.
    The selected contractors are:

    DYNOTEC-KZF JV LLC of Columbus, Ohio
    Merrick-IMEG JV LLP of Greenwood Village, Colorado
    G Squared Design of Lakewood, Colorado
    Kal Architects Inc. of Irvine, California
    AECOM Technical Services Inc. of Los Angeles
    Stell SIA Sala O’Brien LLC DBA S3, LLC (S3) of Mountlake Terrace, Washington
    Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. of Arlington, Virginia

    Under the contract, the awarded companies will support general construction, alteration, modification, maintenance and repair, new construction of buildings, facilities, and real property for NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley and Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. Support also includes optional back-up capacity in support of other NASA centers and federal tenants at agency facilities, including NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex in Fort Irwin, California, and the NASA launch alliance at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
    For information about NASA and other agency programs, visit:

    Home Page

    -end-
    Tiernan DoyleHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600tiernan.doyle@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 Mission Gears Up for Space Station Research

    Source: NASA

    A host of scientific investigations await the crew of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission during their long-duration expedition aboard the International Space Station. NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, are set to study plant cell division and microgravity’s effects on bacteria-killing viruses, as well as perform experiments to produce a higher volume of human stem cells and generate on-demand nutrients.
    Here are details on some of the research scheduled during the Crew-11 mission:

    A stem cell investigation called StemCellEx-IP1 evaluates using microgravity to produce large numbers of induced pluripotent stem cells. Made by reprogramming skin or blood cells, these stem cells can transform into any type of cell in the body and are used in regenerative medicine therapies for many diseases. However, producing enough cells on the ground is a challenge.
    Researchers plan to use the microgravity environment aboard the space station to demonstrate whether generating 1,000 times more cells is possible and whether these cells are of higher quality and better for clinical use than those made on Earth. If proven, this could significantly improve future patient outcomes.
    “This type of stem cell research is a chance to find treatments and maybe even cures for diseases that currently have none,” said Tobias Niederwieser of BioServe Space Technologies, which developed the investigation. “This represents an incredible potential to make life here on Earth better for all of us. We can take skin or blood cells from a patient, convert them into stem cells, and produce custom cell-therapy with little risk for rejection, as they are the person’s own cells.”

    Genes in Space is a series of competitions in which students in grades 7 through 12 design DNA experiments that are flown to the space station. Genes in Space-12 examines the effects of microgravity on interactions between certain bacteria and bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect and kill bacteria. Bacteriophages already are used to treat bacterial infections on Earth.
    “Boeing and miniPCR bio co-founded this competition to bring real-world scientific experiences to the classroom and promote molecular biology investigations on the space station,” said Scott Copeland of Boeing, and co-founder of Genes in Space. “This investigation could establish a foundation for using these viruses to treat bacterial infections in space, potentially decreasing the dependence on antibiotics.”
    “Previous studies indicate that bacteria may display increased growth rates and virulence in space, while the antibiotics used to combat them may be less effective,” said Dr. Ally Huang, staff scientist at miniPCR bio. “Phages produced in space could have profound implications for human health, microbial control, and the sustainability of long-duration remote missions. Phage therapy tools also could revolutionize how we manage bacterial infections and microbial ecosystems on Earth.”

    Some vitamins and nutrients in foods and supplements lose their potency during prolonged storage, and insufficient intake of even a single nutrient can lead to serious diseases, such as a vitamin C deficiency, causing scurvy. The BioNutrients-3 experiment builds on previous investigations looking at ways to produce on-demand nutrients in space using genetically engineered organisms that remain viable for years. These include yogurt and a yeast-based beverage made from yeast strains previously tested aboard station, as well as a new, engineered co-culture that produces multiple nutrients in one sample bag.
    “BioNutrients-3 includes multiple food safety features, including pasteurization to kill microorganisms in the sample and a demonstration of the feasibility of using a sensor called E-Nose that simulates an ultra-sensitive nose to detect pathogens,” said Kevin Sims, project manager at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley.
    Another food safety feature is a food-grade pH indicator to track bacterial growth.
    “These pH indicators help the crew visualize the progress of the yogurt and kefir samples,” Sims said. “As the organisms grow, they generate lactic acid, which lowers the pH and turns the indicator pink.”
    The research also features an investigation of yogurt passage, which seeds new cultures using a bit of yogurt from a finished bag, much like maintaining a sourdough bread starter. This method could sustain a culture over multiple generations, eliminating concerns about yogurt’s shelf life during a mission to the Moon or Mars while reducing launch mass.

    The JAXA Plant Cell Division investigation examines how microgravity affects cell division in green algae and a strain of cultured tobacco cells. Cell division is a fundamental element of plant growth, but few studies have examined it in microgravity.
    “The tobacco cells divide frequently, making the process easy to observe,” said Junya Kirima of JAXA. “We are excited to reveal the effects of the space environment on plant cell division and look forward to performing time-lapse live imaging of it aboard the space station.”
    Understanding this process could support the development of better methods for growing plants for food in space, including on the Moon and Mars. This investigation also could provide insight to help make plant production systems on Earth more efficient.
    For nearly 25 years, people have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge and conducting critical research for the benefit of humanity and our home planet. Space station research supports the future of human spaceflight as NASA looks toward deep space missions to the Moon under the Artemis campaign and in preparation for future human missions to Mars, as well as expanding commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit and beyond.
    Learn more about the International Space Station at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/station

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Facebook privacy practices the focus of $8 billion trial targeting Zuckerberg

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An $8 billion trial by Meta Platforms shareholders against Mark Zuckerberg and other current and former company leaders kicks off on Wednesday over claims that they illegally harvested the data of Facebook users in violation of a 2012 agreement with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

    Jeffrey Zients, White House chief of staff under President Joe Biden and a Meta director for two years starting in May 2018, is expected to be one of the first witnesses to take the stand in the non-jury trial before Kathaleen McCormick, chief judge of the Delaware Chancery Court.

    The case will feature testimony from Zuckerberg and other billionaire defendants including former Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, venture capitalist and board member Marc Andreessen, and former board members Peter Thiel, Palantir Technologies co-founder, and Reed Hastings, co-founder of Netflix.

    A lawyer for the defendants, who have denied the allegations, declined to comment.

    The case began in 2018, following revelations that data from millions of Facebook users was accessed by Cambridge Analytica, a now-defunct political consulting firm that worked for Donald Trump’s successful U.S. presidential campaign in 2016.

    The FTC fined Facebook $5 billion in the wake of the Cambridge Analytica scandal, saying the company had violated a 2012 agreement with the FTC to protect user data.

    Shareholders want the defendants to reimburse Meta for the FTC fine and other legal costs, which the plaintiffs estimate total more than $8 billion.

    In court filings, the defendants described the allegations as “extreme” and said the evidence at trial will show Facebook hired an outside consulting firm to ensure compliance with the FTC agreement and that Facebook was a victim of Cambridge Analytica’s deceit.

    Meta, which is not a defendant, declined to comment. On its website, the company has said it has invested billions of dollars into protecting user privacy since 2019.

    The lawsuit is considered the first of its kind to go to trial which alleges board members consciously failed to oversee their company. This is often described as the hardest claim to prove in Delaware corporate law.

    Boeing’s current and former board members settled a case with similar claims in 2021 for $237.5 million, the largest ever in an alleged breach of oversight lawsuit. The Boeing directors did not admit to wrongdoing.

    In addition to privacy claims at the heart of the Meta case, plaintiffs allege that Zuckerberg anticipated that the Cambridge Analytica scandal would send the company’s stock lower and sold his Facebook shares as a result, pocketing at least $1 billion.

    Defendants said evidence will show that Zuckerberg did not trade on inside information and that he used a stock-trading plan that removes his control over sales and is designed to guard against insider trading.

    McCormick is expected to rule on liability and damages months after the trial concludes.

    (Reuters)

  • India reiterates zero tolerance for money laundering, terror funding

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has reaffirmed its commitment to combat money laundering and terror financing, aligning its domestic frameworks with global standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

    Established in 1989 during the G7 Summit in Paris, FATF plays a crucial role in protecting the integrity of the global financial system. With 40 members today, the body’s recommendations have shaped anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) regimes worldwide, with over 200 countries pledging to comply.

    India became FATF’s 34th member in 2010 and has since demonstrated zero tolerance towards terror financing and money laundering. The country’s frameworks, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (2002) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (1967), are designed to detect and disrupt illicit flows of funds linked to organised crime, terrorism, and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

    The FATF regularly identifies jurisdictions with weak measures through its public “grey list” and “blacklist.” As of June June 13, 2025, 24 countries — including South Africa, Syria, and Vietnam — are under increased monitoring. Nations like North Korea, Iran, and Myanmar remain on the blacklist due to persistent strategic deficiencies. Notably, FATF data shows that out of 139 countries reviewed, 86 have undertaken reforms to strengthen their AML/CFT frameworks.

    India’s proactive approach is reflected in its consistent alignment with FATF standards and contributions to global assessments and case studies, demonstrating its role as a responsible player in safeguarding global security and financial transparency.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Town Hall restoration work set to get underway

    Source: City of Oxford

    Oxford City Council is pleased to announce a significant step forward in the restoration of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

    The historic Town Hall is set to undergo essential cleaning and stone repair works to preserve and enhance its impressive façade. 

    Following detailed planning and behind-the-scenes progress, the Council has now appointed PAYE Stonework & Restoration Ltd as the principal contractor to carry out the work. Recognised for their expertise in heritage restoration and holding a Royal Warrant, PAYE brings a wealth of experience from high-profile conservation projects across the UK. Work on site is due to begin later this year. 

    The restoration, guided by heritage specialists Jessop and Cook Architects, will focus on cleaning the stonework—an essential first step that will enable thorough assessment and repair of structural and surface condition issues. The project is scheduled for completion by spring 2026. 

    Comment

    “Oxford Town Hall is a landmark building, a valued community space and a source of great pride. This restoration project will help ensure that its historical and architectural legacy is safeguarded for future generations and will maintain it at the heart of our community.”
    Councillor Ed Turner, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management

    The historic Town Hall is set to undergo essential cleaning and stone repair works to preserve and enhance its impressive façade. 

    Following detailed planning and behind-the-scenes progress, the Council has now appointed PAYE Stonework & Restoration Ltd as the principal contractor to carry out the work. Recognised for their expertise in heritage restoration and holding a Royal Warrant, PAYE brings a wealth of experience from high-profile conservation projects across the UK. Work on site is due to begin later this year. 

    The restoration, guided by heritage specialists Jessop and Cook Architects, will focus on cleaning the stonework—an essential first step that will enable thorough assessment and repair of structural and surface condition issues. The project is scheduled for completion by spring 2026. 

    The Town Hall serves a wide range of functions: it is home to Oxford City Council’s municipal offices, houses the Museum of Oxford, and hosts concerts, weddings, and civic events throughout the year, bringing a substantial income stream to support frontline services. Its neo-Jacobean architecture and storied past, dating back to its opening by the then Prince of Wales, make it a cherished fixture in the city’s urban fabric. 

    This restoration will not only improve the building’s appearance but will also extend its lifespan, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Oxford’s heritage and civic life and that income from hiring out its rooms can continue to support frontline services. 

    For more information about the project and the history of Oxford Town Hall, visit: www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Student design bureaus: a breeding ground for engineering personnel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Polytechnic University held an intensive educational course “Student Design Bureaus as a Tool for Preparing Highly Motivated and Conscious Engineers” for employees of industrial partner companies. Participants discussed how design bureaus help students master real engineering tasks.

    The goal of the intensive course is to introduce representatives of enterprises to the capabilities of SKB, demonstrate examples of successful projects and discuss prospects for joint work on developing the country’s engineering potential. Organizers are representatives of SKB “System Engineering”. The project became the winner in April 2025 competition of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation in the direction of “Student Design Leadership”Several design bureaus and engineering teams of the Polytechnic University are participating in its implementation.

    “To achieve technological leadership by 2030, we must involve young people in solving real engineering problems today, at the training stage. Student design bureaus allow not only to develop skills, but also to form the right professional motivation and awareness in students,” noted Oleg Rozhdestvensky, head of the SPbPU Office of Technological Leadership, on the basis of which the project is being implemented.

    Head of SKB “System Engineering”, Director of the Higher School of Power Engineering Alena Aleshina emphasized that SPbPU SKB is built as a multi-level ecosystem: school KBs – youth KBs – student KBs – employer. This allows us to identify talented children at early stages, support their training and involve them in project activities.

    The participants of the intensive course discussed the development trajectories of student design bureaus at universities, their goals and objectives, as well as the role of an industrial partner in this system. Special attention was paid to how to establish cooperation between an enterprise and SKB SPbPU, how student projects help solve specific problems under the guidance of curators representing companies, and ensure an influx of qualified personnel. The experts also shared examples of successfully implemented projects.

    The presentation session presented the areas of work of SKB “System Engineering”, starting with school design bureaus and ending with the best practices of interaction between industry and the university.

    The project to create a network of school design bureaus is a joint initiative of the Government of St. Petersburg and the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” of SPbPU (PISH CI). Director of the Center for Continuing Professional Education of PISH CI Sergey Salkutsan said that SHKB is a network of engineering creativity clubs based in schools. Students in grades 8–11, under the guidance of instructors, master engineering skills, work with modern software and solve real problems of industrial companies. The goal is early career guidance for schoolchildren, development of practical competencies and training of future qualified personnel for the industry.

    In the X-Lab Engineering Creativity Laboratory, students learn to combine knowledge from different disciplines when solving practical problems. Senior research fellow at PISh CI Mikhail Zhmailo spoke about the project workshop, which is part of the educational program and combines design, engineering, digital manufacturing, project management, and teamwork.

    Head of the engineering team Polytech Voltage Machine, engineer of the Higher School of Transport IMMiT SPbPU Vsevolod Gaiduk introduced the intensive participants to the team that develops robotic platforms for high cross-country ability and ground electric transport. Polytechnicians create solutions for people with disabilities and for firefighting.

    Arseniy Klyuev, Senior Lecturer at the Higher School of Power Engineering, spoke in more detail about the SKB Power Machines — Polytech. This is a unique educational cluster focused on training personnel for the Power Machines company. The end-to-end training trajectory begins with the school’s engineering classes and continues through youth and student design bureaus, bachelor’s and master’s programs. Senior students are involved in real engineering projects implemented in the interests of the company under the guidance of curators — specialists with experience in implementing R&D from the university and employees of the enterprise. The success of the project is ensured by coordination between the university and the company, effective infrastructure, a motivation system and corporate culture.

    Director of the Higher School of High-Voltage Power Engineering Viktor Belko showed the structure of the Electrical Machines department within the SKB Power Machines — Polytech. For example, the Electrical Insulation Laboratory trains personnel in the context of growing demand for domestic technologies. The main goal is to involve students in research activities from their first years to accumulate practical experience in the field of electrical insulation and electrical machines, which cannot be fully ensured within the framework of traditional educational standards. The center, based on successful experience in fulfilling contracts in the field of electrical engineering and an established research base, interacts with industrial partners and forms flexible teams of students under the supervision of specialists from the university and companies.

    Of particular interest was the practical case of interaction between the Power Machines company and students, starting from the second year, in terms of participation in the educational program. Leading project manager Alexandra Grigorieva presented the areas of work and the results of interaction with SPbPU within the framework of the Power Machines Trajectory, which formed the basis for the advanced training of junior students for further participation in the Power Machines – Polytech SKB. Students gain the opportunity to receive a scholarship, master a working profession and find employment.

    The seminar participants visited the laboratories and workspaces of the SKB “System Engineering” teams and saw the students’ developments. Including a racing car and a solar car of the Polytech North Capital Motorsport engineering racing team, the results of the work of X-Lab and SKB “Unmanned Aviation Systems”, as well as a fire robot of the Polytech Voltage Machine team.

    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 United Nations: Human Rights Committee Adopts Reports on Follow-Up to Concluding Observations Concerning Armenia and Germany

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Rights Committee today adopted reports on follow-up to concluding observations concerning Armenia and Germany.

    Yvonne Donders, Committee Expert and the Special Rapporteur on follow-up to concluding observations, presented the assessment of the responses provided by Armenia and Germany. The overall recommended action for the two assessments was to send a letter to each of the States parties informing them of the discontinuation of the follow-up procedure and that further information requested by the Committee should be addressed in their next periodic reports, which were due in 2028 for all States parties under assessment.

    Regarding Armenia, the Committee focused on three recommendations concerning violence against women; the right of peaceful assembly and excessive use of force; and participation in public affairs.  On violence against women, the Committee welcomed amendments made to the “law on domestic violence” by the State party, as well as the “SafeYou” mobile application, allowing victims of violence to promptly receive support.  However, the Committee was concerned about reports of the discriminatory application of protection orders, the lack of concrete information on the means of redress provided to victims, as well as reports indicating that misconceptions and stereotypes regarding women and domestic violence persisted.

    Armenia was therefore recommended to revise the law on domestic violence to ensure a victim-centred approach; establish an effective mechanism to encourage the reporting of cases of violence against women and intensify efforts to address the social stigmatisation of victims; ensure that all cases of violence against women were promptly and thoroughly investigated, and that victims had access to effective remedies and means of protection; and to consider ratifying the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combatting Violence against Women and Domestic Violence. 

    On excessive use of force, the Committee welcomed the adoption of the legislation on the Police Guard and amendments to the law on freedom of assembly, as well as the efforts taken to provide training to law enforcement officers on the use of force.  However, it regretted the reports of the continued disproportionate use of force by police and obstruction of and violence against journalists during protests. 

    Armenia was urged to strengthen its efforts to ensure that all law enforcement officers found responsible for excessive use of force during the events in March 2008, June 2015, July 2016 and April 2018, were held accountable and appropriately sanctioned, and that all the victims received adequate compensation and rehabilitation; to review the amendments to the law on freedom of assemblies to bring it into conformity with the Covenant; to refrain from undue interference with assembly participants and reduce police presence at peaceful demonstrations; ensure that impartial and thorough investigations were undertaken by the public prosecutor’s office into all allegations of the excessive use of force and arbitrary arrest and detention by State agents at protests; and to ensure that domestic laws and regulations on the use of force were in full conformity with international standards. 

    On participation in public affairs, the Committee welcomed the legislative package submitted to the National Assembly proposing amendments to the Electoral Code, including measures to increase the accessibility of polling stations for persons with disabilities.  However, it was concerned about information indicating that institutional barriers to political participation of persons with disabilities remained, including legal restrictions which denied persons recognised by a court as “incapacitated” the right to elect and to be elected and the right to participate in referendums.

    Armenia was called on to ensure that the mandatory disclosure of campaign financing information was fully respected to improve transparency and create equal conditions for the campaign; revise the limitations on the right to stand for presidential and legislative elections; and ensure full accessibility of polling stations for persons with disabilities.

    Committee Experts thanked the Special Rapporteur for her report and underscored how vital the follow-up procedure was to the work of the Committee.  Experts said Armenia had made substantial progress with respect to improving the legal framework, but still had work to do with implementation and effectiveness.  It was troubling that investigations in the State party were pending for more than 10 years. 

    In response, Ms. Donders agreed that it was serious that investigations in Armenia were pending after so many years.

    Concerning Germany, the Committee noted three recommendations, including on intersex persons, institutional care, and on the right to privacy.  For intersex children, the Committee welcomed that a review was under way to evaluate how to further improve safeguards for intersex children, and that a review of the new provisions under the act on the protection of children with variations in sexual development would take place within five years from its adoption.  However, it regretted the lack of information provided regarding compliance and implementation of the act and the provision of remedies in practice.

    Germany was recommended to ensure that all acts relating to the assignment of a sex to intersex children performed without their free and informed consent were specifically prohibited, except in cases where such interventions were absolutely necessary for medical reasons and the best interests of the child had been duly taken into account, including the consideration of amendments to the law on the protection of children with variations in sex development of 2021.  Germany should also ensure that all victims had access to remedies, and ensure that all victims had access to their health records and consider establishing a dedicated compensation fund.

    On institutional care, the Committee welcomed the 2022 resolution on protection from violence for people in need of care, which initiated efforts to develop practical safeguards, but regretted the absence of data on inspections of care facilities, and the outcomes and the sanctions imposed in relation to the use of physical and chemical restraints.  The Committee also noted with satisfaction that the mental health acts of the Länder were becoming increasingly uniform in the areas of physical restraint and compulsory medication but regretted the lack of information on further steps taken to harmonise the legal standards in the different Länder on the involuntary hospitalization and forced committal of those with psychosocial disabilities. Furthermore, while welcoming the replacement of former section 1905 of the Civil Code with new section 1830 through the act to reform the law on guardianship, the Committee regretted that the legislation still provided for circumstances under which the forced sterilisation of adults with disabilities remained permissible.

    The Committee recommended that Germany should continue efforts to monitor, prevent and eradicate the use of physical and chemical restraints in institutional care settings, as well as all forms of abuse against older persons and those with psychosocial disabilities in these institutions; consider further harmonising the legal standards in the different Länder on the involuntary hospitalisation and forced committal of those with psychosocial disabilities; remove any exception in the law to the ban on the forced sterilisation of adults with disabilities; and consider increasing the availability of specific complaints mechanisms to receive, investigate and facilitate the prosecution and punishment of those responsible for all forms of abuse in institutional care settings.

    On the right to privacy, the Committee welcomed Germany’s efforts to ensure that all types of surveillance activities and interference with privacy were in full conformity with the Covenant, including the reforms of the federal intelligence service act, and legislative amendments made in response to decisions of the Federal Constitutional Court, including the establishment of the Independent Control Council in 2022.  However, the Committee regretted the lack of concrete information on the practical implementation of the federal intelligence service act. 

    The Committee recommended that Germany should ensure that all types of surveillance activities and interference with privacy were in full conformity with the Covenant, complying with the principles of legality, proportionality and necessity and subject to judicial authorisation.  Germany should also ensure that surveillance was subject to effective independent oversight mechanisms, namely judicial mechanisms, and ensure access to effective remedies in cases of abuse.

    Committee Experts welcomed that Germany had been on time in presenting its information on the three recommendations.  However, the State party had the resources and capacity to provide the data requested of them by the Committee.  The State party had taken positive steps, but questions remained around implementation. 

    In response, Ms. Donders said Germany had taken substantive legislative reforms, among other activities, and was optimistic that the State party would provide additional information and data requested by the Committee. 

    In closing, Changrok Soh, Committee Chairperson, expressed gratitude to the Special Rapporteur and other Experts for their dedication and commitment. 

    The draft reports were adopted by the Committee as amended during the discussion and will be available on the web page dedicated to the follow-up procedure for concluding observations.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-fourth session is being held from 23 June to 17 July 2025.  All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 4 p.m. on Thursday, 17 July to close its one hundred and forty-fourth session. 

    ___________

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

     

    CCPR25.018E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Salazar Introduces Historic Bipartisan DIGNITY Act to Finally Fix America’s Broken Immigration System

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27)

    strong>WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) and Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) introduced a new and improved version of the DIGNITY Act – the DIGNITY Act of 2025: a bold, historic, and commonsense immigration reform bill. 

    They were joined by a group of 20 members including Reps.Mike Lawler (NY-17), David Valadao (CA-22), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Gabe Evans (CO-08), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Don Bacon (NE-02), Young Kim (MA-04), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Susie Lee (NV-03), Adam Gray (CA-13), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Mike Levin (CA-49), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Laura Gillen (NY-04), and Jake Auchincloss (MA-04).

    At a press conference held at the U.S. Capitol, Rep. Salazar outlined a revolutionary path forward to fix a system that has been broken for decades. 

    “The Dignity Act of 2025 is a revolutionary bill that offers the solution to our immigration crisis: secure the border, stop illegal immigration, and provide an earned opportunity for long-term immigrants to stay here and work,” said Congresswoman Salazar. “No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future.” 

    “I have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of our broken immigration system, and as a member of Congress, I take seriously my obligation to propose a solution. Realistic, common-sense compromise is achievable, and is especially important given the urgency of this moment. I consider the Dignity Act of 2025 a critical first step to overhauling this broken system,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “Immigrants – especially those who have been in the United States for decades – make up a critical component of our communities and also of the American workforce and economy. The vast majority of immigrants are hard-working, law-abiding residents; and, most Americans recognize that it is in our country’s best interest to find bipartisan reforms. We can enact legislation that incorporates both humanity and security, and the Dignity Act of 2025 offers a balanced approach that restores dignity to people who have tried to navigate a broken system for far too long. The reintroduction of this legislation includes changes that reflect the challenges in today’s political environment. I’m proud of my bipartisan work with Representative Salazar, who has been a strong partner on this issue since December 2022. It is our hope that Congress seizes the opportunity to take an important step forward on this issue.”

    The Dignity Act delivers a long-overdue solution: it secures the border, restores law and order, revitalizes the American Workforce, and allows certain long-term undocumented immigrants to earn legal status, without amnesty or a path to citizenship. The bill restores order while offering a tough but fair opportunity for those who have contributed to the country. 

    Unlike past efforts, the DIGNITY Act is fully funded through restitution payments and application fees made by immigrants, requiring NO taxpayer dollars.

    “In conversations across NY-17, I’ve heard a lot of frustration, both from employers struggling to fill jobs and families looking to reunite with their loved ones,” said Congressman Lawler. “We must do this by fixing our broken legal immigration system, securing our borders, and creating a fair, earned process for those who are already here and contributing. The Dignity Act honors America’s legacy of being a nation of immigrants and that’s why I’m proud to support it.”

    “As the grandson of Mexican immigrants and a former cop and soldier, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of a secure border and a fair immigration system,” said Congressman Evans. “I’m proud to help introduce Congresswoman Salazar’s bipartisan DIGNITY Act, which prioritizes border security while delivering a practical solution for immigrants who want to work hard, follow our laws, and be productive members of society. Our legislation accomplishes what Latino business owners and community members have been asking for: give immigrants positively contributing to our community an opportunity to pursue the American Dream.” 

    Key provisions of the Dignity Act include:

    • Border Security: Fully funds modern border infrastructure and enforcement.
    • Mandatory E-Verify: Prevents illegal hiring and protects American jobs.
    • Asylum Reform: Ends catch-and-release, and ensures timely and credible outcomes.
    • Dreamer Protections: Grants legal status and a path to permanent residency.
    • The Dignity Program: A 7-year earned legal status program allowing undocumented immigrants to live and work legally, with renewable status based on good conduct and restitution.
    • Workforce Development: Expands training, apprenticeships, and education for American workers.
    • Legal Immigration Reform: Updates visa categories to align with 21st-century economic needs.

    With growing bipartisan support and endorsements from immigration groups, faith leaders, businesses, the agricultural sector, educators, and community leaders, the Dignity Act presents the strongest and most viable opportunity in years to achieve meaningful, lasting immigration reform.

    The legislation acknowledges a key truth: most undocumented individuals are not seeking citizenship at all costs, but rather the dignity of living and working legally, contributing to society, paying taxes, being safe from deportation, and traveling to see family during the holidays. 

    At the same time, the Dignity Act makes clear that this will be the final fix, because real border security and enforcement must be in place to prevent future crises.

    WHY NOW?

    The immigration crisis is no longer confined to border towns. From the recent riots in Los Angeles to overwhelmed communities across the country, the consequences of a broken system are unfolding in plain sight. Millions live in the shadows, our economy suffers from labor shortages, and the border remains a flashpoint of national concern.

    For too long, Congress has failed to act, leaving communities, law enforcement, and immigrants caught in a system that doesn’t work.

    The Dignity Act delivers a real solution: secure the border and provide undocumented immigrants who meet strict conditions with an earned opportunity to live and work legally, with dignity and accountability. 

    It balances compassion with law and order. 

    This is a defining moment to act. The American people want security, dignity, and a system that works. The Dignity Act makes that possible.

    BACKGROUND:

    For generations, the United States has been a beacon of hope for those fleeing violence, seeking opportunity, and building a better life. But our broken immigration system has left too many in the shadows and too many Americans without answers. 

    The Dignity Act reaffirms that while we are a nation of laws, we are also a nation of second chances. By restoring order and creating a clear, enforceable process, this legislation renews the American legacy of hope and opportunity. 

    RESOURCES:

    Full press conference, click here.

    One-pager on the Dignity Act, click here.

    Detailed summary of the Dignity Act, click here.

    Section-by-section breakdown of the Dignity Act, click here.

    Full text of the bill, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Sustainability of fishery and aquaculture products: Informing consumers – 16-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Recent surveys suggest that there is a growing interest among consumers in being informed about the environmental impact of the fishery products they buy. The sustainable exploitation of fish resources is one of the main objectives of the common fisheries policy (CFP). Its implementation is supported by several pieces of legislation, in particular measures on fisheries control and traceability. The information consumers receive on fishery products is mainly based on the general EU consumer protection legislation and complemented by additional provisions under the CFP. There are, however, control and information gaps, which arise mainly from three issues: different labelling rules for fresh and prepared fishery products; different control levels in Member States; and potentially different standards for imported products. In a number of resolutions, the European Parliament has identified shortcomings and suggested solutions. Several ongoing policy initiatives could help to bridge the gap between consumer expectations and actual product traceability.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compatibility of northern extension of A33 motorway with Habitats Directive and Natura 2000 site’s conservation objectives – E-002789/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002789/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE)

    In its answer to written question E-001537/2025[1], the Commission mentions its competence to issue an opinion under the second subparagraph of Article 6(4) of Directive 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive) for projects affecting priority habitat types such as 91E0*. Against this background, reference is made to Germany’s plans to build a new northern section of the A33 motorway in the Osnabrück area. The extension will cross the Wiehengebirge bat habitat near Osnabrück (Natura site DE3614334) and is likely to have a significant impact on the priority habitat type 91E0*, most notably because of the increased nitrogen pollution from road traffic. According to the press, the project has been submitted to the Commission for assessment.

    • 1.In order to carry out a comprehensive assessment, has the Commission assumed that all relevant documents concerning the conservation area, including any objections from public participation, have been submitted by the Member State?
    • 2.When drafting its opinion, has it take account of whether the site conservation objectives have been set in accordance with the provisions of the Habitats Directive and the ECJ case-law?
    • 3.Does it agree that, given the constant nitrogen pollution the conservation area will likely be exposed to, a permanent speed limit needs to be considered as a necessary mitigation measure under Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001537-ASW_EN.html
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Promoting the consumption of plant-based foods, introducing EU-wide vegan and vegetarian labels, and clarifying the wording of labelling – E-002799/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002799/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Sebastian Everding (The Left), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Anna Strolenberg (Verts/ALE)

    Food consumption patterns play a crucial role in addressing climate change. Scientists have stressed the need for a shift towards more plant-based diets, benefiting both the environment and health[1]. The growing availability of diverse plant-based products in EU supermarkets has enabled consumers to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets, supporting a more balanced protein intake.

    • 1.What measures will the Commission propose to encourage citizens to diversify their protein sources and to promote increased consumption of plant-based foods, as recommended by the scientific community?
    • 2.Will the Commission consider proposing an EU-wide label for vegan and vegetarian products, as recommended by the European Court of Auditors in 2024[2]?
    • 3.Food labelling is essential to inform consumers about the composition, taste, texture and versatility of products. In 2024, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruled that plant-based foods can continue to be sold and promoted using terms normally associated with meat, as long as their composition is clearly labelled and does not mislead consumers. Will the Commission respect this ruling when proposing the new common agricultural policy or other additional rules, including those that will also affect non-agricultural foodstuffs?

    Supporter[3]

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] EAT-Lancet Commission report ‘Healthy Diets from Sustainable Food Systems’.
    • [2] https://www.eca.europa.eu/en/publications/SR-2024-23.
    • [3] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE)
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2015/848 on insolvency proceedings to replace its Annexes A and B – A10-0127/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2015/848 on insolvency proceedings to replace its Annexes A and B

    (COM(2025/0040) – C10‑0009/2025 – 2025/0023(COD))

    (Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2025/0040)),

    – having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 81(2), points (a), (c) and (f)  of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C10‑0009/2025),

    – having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Rule 60 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on Legal Affairs (A10-0127/2025),

    1. Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out;

    2. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it replaces, substantially amends or intends to substantially amend its proposal;

    3. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

     

    Amendment  1

    Proposal for a regulation

    Recital 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (2) In July 2022, Slovakia notified the Commission of recent changes of its domestic insolvency law introducing a new preventive restructuring procedure and a new type of insolvency practitioner. That notification was followed by notifications from Estonia, Spain, Malta and Italy in September 2022, from Belgium in July 2023 and from Luxembourg in January 2024, all relating to recent changes to their domestic law that introduce new types of insolvency proceedings or insolvency practitioners. Those new types of insolvency proceedings and insolvency practitioners comply with the requirements set out in Regulation (EU) 2015/848 and make it necessary to amend Annexes A and B to that Regulation.

    (2) In July 2022, Slovakia notified the Commission of recent changes of its domestic insolvency law introducing a new preventive restructuring procedure and a new type of insolvency practitioner. That notification was followed by notifications from Estonia, Spain and Italy in September 2022, from Belgium in July 2023, from Malta in September 2023 and from Luxembourg in January 2024, all relating to recent changes to their domestic law that introduce new types of insolvency proceedings or insolvency practitioners. Those new types of insolvency proceedings and insolvency practitioners comply with the requirements set out in Regulation (EU) 2015/848 and make it necessary to amend Annexes A and B to that Regulation.

    Amendment  2

    Proposal for a regulation

    Recital 2 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (2a) After the Commission presented its proposal, further notifications were received from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and France relating to recent changes to their domestic law that introduce new types of insolvency proceedings or insolvency practitioners.

    Amendment  3

    Proposal for a regulation

    Recital 3

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (3) In accordance with [Articles 1 and 2] [in case of non-participation] [Article 3] [in case of participation]and Article 4a(1) of Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, [Ireland has notified [, by letter of …,] its wish to take part in the adoption and application of this Regulation]/[without prejudice to Article 4 of that Protocol, Ireland is not taking part in the adoption of this Regulation and is not be bound by it or subject to its application].

    (3) In accordance with Article 3 and Article 4a(1) of Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Ireland has notified, by letter of 12 May 2025, its wish to take part in the adoption and application of this Regulation.

    Amendment  4

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 11 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Производство по несъстоятелност на предприемача,

    Amendment  5

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 11 b (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Производство по погасяване на задължения,

    Amendment  6

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 11 c (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Производство по стабилизация на предприемача,

    Amendment  7

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 14 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Veřejná preventivní restrukturalizace,

    Amendment  8

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 40

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    – Planes de reestructuración,

    – Planes de reestructuración (con publicidad registral),

    Amendment  9

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 44

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    – Sauvegarde financière accélérée,

    deleted

    Amendment  10

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 96

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    – Proċedura bażika ta’ ristrutturar preventive,

    – Proċedura bażika ta’ ristrutturar preventiv,

    Amendment  11

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex B – indent 17 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Restrukturalizační správce,

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    The rapporteur declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not receive input from any entity or person to be mentioned in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

     

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Amendment of Regulation (EU) 2015/848 on insolvency proceedings to replace its Annexes A and B

    References

    COM(2025)0040 – C10-0009/2025 – 2025/0023(COD)

    Date submitted to Parliament

    12.2.2025

     

     

     

    Committee(s) responsible

     Date announced in plenary

    JURI

    10.3.2025

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Ilhan Kyuchyuk

    18.2.2025

     

     

     

    Simplified procedure – date of decision

    18.2.2025

    Discussed in committee

    4.6.2025

     

     

     

    Date adopted

    24.6.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    23

    0

    0

    Members present for the final vote

    Maravillas Abadía Jover, José Cepeda, Ton Diepeveen, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Sergey Lagodinsky, Mario Mantovani, Kira Marie Peter-Hansen, Pascale Piera, Emil Radev, René Repasi, Krzysztof Śmiszek, Adrián Vázquez Lázara, Dainius Žalimas

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Henrik Dahl, Laurence Farreng, Angelika Niebler, Gheorghe Piperea, Julie Rechagneux, Arash Saeidi, Eric Sargiacomo, Marcin Sypniewski, Jana Toom

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Lara Wolters

    Date tabled

    9.7.2025

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Concerns regarding potential binding electric vehicle mandates for corporate fleets and the impact on EU competitiveness – E-002744/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002744/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Zala Tomašič (PPE)

    On 5 March 2025, the Commission published a communication on decarbonising corporate fleets, with a legislative proposal expected by year-end. There are indications that the Commission is considering binding electric vehicle (EV) purchase mandates for EU corporate fleets. Such mandates could significantly affect fleet operators and customers across vehicle segments – passenger cars, vans, heavy-duty vehicles, buses and coaches – and have major implications for the competitiveness of Europe’s vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.

    In light of this:

    • 1.Will the Commission ensure – through a full impact assessment, Regulatory Scrutiny Board review, and SME and competitiveness checks – that the principles of proportionality, subsidiarity, and Better Regulation are upheld in this proposal – while also clarifying how technological neutrality will be maintained, particularly regarding the role of plug-in hybrid vehicles and whether they will count towards compliance?
    • 2.Will the Commission impose binding EV quotas despite concerns over flexibility, infrastructure gaps and operational viability, and how does it intend to define ‘corporate fleets’ – including whether businesses whose operations depend on vehicles (e.g. logistics) will be covered – while also addressing the associated risks of EV devaluation and declining resale values?
    • 3.What measures will be taken to assess and mitigate the impact of any purchase mandates on the competitiveness of the European automotive industry and its supply chain?

    Supporters[1]

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by Members other than the author: Ondřej Krutílek (ECR), Paulius Saudargas (PPE), Christine Singer (Renew), Sophia Kircher (PPE), Angelika Niebler (PPE), Matej Tonin (PPE), Alexandra Mehnert (PPE), Jens Gieseke (PPE)
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Unusable stocks following the entry into force of the Commission’s proposed legislation on lead ammunition – E-002811/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002811/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Riho Terras (PPE)

    The EC’s proposed legislation on lead ammunition draws a distinction between ‘large-calibre’ (≥ 5.6 mm) and ‘small-calibre’ (

    As lead ammunition cannot simply be discarded or repurposed, mainly on account of its explosive components, after the proposed transitional period of 18 months, producers, sellers and users would be left with significant unusable stocks of lead-based centrefire ammunition.

    Could the Commission explain whether appropriate compensation mechanisms have been considered for affected stakeholders, who would suffer financial losses as a result of being left with unusable stocks of lead-based centrefire ammunition after 18 months?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Ordinary Delegation meeting – 09 July 2025, Strasbourg – Delegation for Northern cooperation and for relations with Switzerland and Norway and to the EU-Iceland Joint Parliamentary Committee and the European Economic Area (EEA) Joint Parliamentary Committee

    Source: European Parliament

    The Delegation for Northern Cooperation and for Relations with Switzerland and Norway and to the EU-Iceland Joint Parliamentary Committee and the European Economic Area Joint Parliamentary Committee met on Wednesday, 9 July from 17.30 until 18.00 in room WEISS N3.5, Strasbourg.

    During the meeting the Vice-Chairs of the Delegation were elected by acclamation:

    MEP Christophe GRUDLER (Renew, FR) as First Vice Chair

    MEP Gheorghe CÂRCIU (S&D, RO) as Second Vice Chair

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Common agricultural policy reform – P-002877/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002877/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    The Commission proposed a reform of the common agricultural policy (CAP) and integration of the agricultural budget into flexible national plans, in order for funding to be rerouted to other priorities. The proposal was scrapped after opposition from farmers, agriculture ministers and the farming lobby. Although the structure of the CAP has been salvaged, it will suffer major budget cuts of an estimated 15 % to 25 %, which will affect direct payments to farmers and is liable to spark renewed protests.

    Since the current structure of the CAP is to be retained, how will the Commission manage the impact of these estimated budget cuts on farmers, particularly when it comes to keeping farms viable and competitive, and ensuring long-term food security and the sustainability of the agricultural sector, given the EU’s new strategic priorities?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Sound economic governance as a precondition for RRF payments – 16-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The €650 billion Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) finances reform and investment measures in EU Member States until 2026 to mitigate the socio-economic upshots of the pandemic and foster the twin transitions. Article 10 of the RRF Regulation sets out conditions for commitment and payment suspensions based on the macroeconomic position of Member States. In cases where the public finances of EU countries are not in line with the EU economic governance framework and Member States do not make any credible efforts to correct macroeconomic imbalances, the European Commission may propose the enactment of RRF suspensions to the Council. Any suspension would stop the countries concerned from benefiting in full and on time from RRF grants and loans. The Commission has not proposed any such suspension so far.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring public transparency in the General-Purpose AI Code of Practice – E-002796/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002796/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Brando Benifei (S&D), Michael McNamara (Renew), Axel Voss (PPE), Kim Van Sparrentak (Verts/ALE), Sergey Lagodinsky (Verts/ALE)

    It is with great concern that we take note of the last-minute removal of key areas, such as public transparency, from General-Purpose AI Code of Practice and the weakening of risk assessment and mitigation provisions[1]. We reiterate the cross-party message of 25 March 2025 that using a code of practice to reinterpret and narrow a legal text agreed by the co-legislators is problematic and undemocratic, and creates legal uncertainty[2].

    • 1.How does the Commission consider the objectives of the AI Act[3] and due process to be safeguarded if Parliament was not consulted on such significant changes to the final draft, while most providers reportedly received the full text of the final draft?
    • 2.Does the Commission agree that public transparency and accountability are essential for enforcing the AI Act and that fostering trust and widespread adoption of AI depend on the availability of accurate information for citizens, downstream providers, and users?
    • 3.How does the Commission expect the AI Act to support a market for trustworthy and reliable AI in Europe, especially for downstream providers, small and medium-sized enterprises and consumers in Europe, with a lack of public transparency and weakened risk assessments, and when documentation can be submitted long after models appear on the market?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.mlex.com/mlex/artificial-intelligence/articles/2361422/civil-society-academics-ask-to-enhance-transparency-in-eu-code-for-ai-models.
    • [2] According to settled case law, the adoption of rules essential to the subject-matter envisaged is reserved to the legislature of the European Union (see, to that effect, Case C 104/97 P Atlanta v European Community [1999] ECR I 6983, paragraph 76; and C 356/97 Molkereigenossenschaft Wiedergeltingen [2000] ECR I 5461, paragraph 21). The essential rules governing the matter in question must be laid down in the basic legislation and may not be delegated (see, to that effect, Case C 156/93 Parliament v Commission [1995] ECR I 2019, paragraph 18; Parliament v Council, paragraph 23; Case C 48/98 Söhl & Söhlke [1999] ECR I 7877, paragraph 34; and Case C 133/06 Parliament v Council [2008] ECR I 3189, paragraph 45 and CJEU ruling C-355/10 paragraph 64).
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of 13 June 2024 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence, OJ L, 2024/1689, 12.7.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj.
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Cohesion funding: deal on mid-term update responding to new challenges

    Source: European Parliament

    Parliament and Council teams have reached an agreement on new priorities for and modifications to the current cycle of EU cohesion funding.

    Negotiators from Parliament and the Danish Council Presidency have agreed provisionally on a mid-term update to the EU’s current cycle of cohesion policy funding, which aims to reduce regional inequalities through the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund and the Just Transition Fund.

    The changes will offer member states and regions more flexibility to channel funds into new objectives, namely defence industrial capabilities and military mobility, water resilience, affordable housing, decarbonisation, strategic technologies, and energy infrastructure. The reform also allows for extra support for EU regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, highlighting their special needs in a tense geopolitical environment.

    To inject liquidity quickly into the new priorities, it was agreed that this spending can benefit from i.a. co-financing rates 10 percentage points higher than normal and of 20% one-off pre-financing for amounts re-allocated in 2026.


    Investment in civil preparedness and dual-use infrastructure

    MEPs secured several adjustments to the new priorities. According to the agreement, civil preparedness investments will be eligible for support, and dual-use infrastructure (suitable for both civilian and military use) will be prioritised when funding the defence industry and military mobility. When it comes to affordable housing, sustainability of the housing stock will be taken into account, and water resilience priorities will be aligned with the European water resilience strategy, including investments in irrigation and desalination.

    To ensure that cohesion policy maintains its focus on small and medium-sized enterprises and less favoured regions, it was agreed that the strategic technology investments of large companies can only be supported in EU areas with lower-than-average gross domestic product per capita.

    The agreement also includes language on rule of law conditionality, ensuring that funds frozen because of breaches of EU values cannot be reallocated to the new priorities.


    Quote

    After the vote, rapporteur and Committee Chair Dragoș Benea (S&D, Romania) said: “We currently face several uncertainties, and this reform is part of our European response, strengthening our industrial base, technology sector, and sustainable and affordable housing stock. It will also help regions manage their water resources, preventing and responding to floods and droughts, and continue the process of decarbonisation. Today’s agreement ensures that while we adjust cohesion policy to meet the challenges of the moment, it also remains a cornerstone of European integration and solidarity, bridging differences and delivering for all citizens – no matter which region they live in.”


    Background

    In parallel, the Employment and Social Affairs Committee is discussing similar proposals in the context of the European Social Fund +.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Managing lead gunshot at outdoor sports shooting ranges – P-002809/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002809/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Riho Terras (PPE)

    The Commission has proposed prohibiting the discharge of lead gunshot at outdoor sport shooting ranges, with a transitional period of five years. By way of a derogation of that time limit, Member States may authorise the use of lead gunshot sizes between 1.9 and 2.6 mm at sport shooting ranges provided that the risk management measures laid down in Appendix X are in place. One of the conditions for authorisation is that outdoor sport shooting ranges have ‘containment, monitoring and, where necessary, treatment of drainage water (including surface water run-off) from gunshot-impact areas to ensure compliance with the environmental quality standard for lead specified under Directive 2000/60/EC’.

    Could the Commission clarify:

    • 1.how many outdoor shooting ranges in the EU already fulfil the proposed water treatment requirement;
    • 2.the estimated cost per outdoor shooting range of installing the water treatment required under the proposal;
    • 3.the practical implications of the reference to the environmental quality standard for lead specified under Directive 2000/60/EC?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – REGI Public Hearing on Cohesion Policy for Outermost Regions – 15-07-2025 – Committee on Regional Development

    Source: European Parliament

    Island life © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    The Committee on Regional Development held a public hearing on Enhancing Cohesion Policy for Outermost Regions and Islands: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities Post-2027.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Netherlands: EIB, Rabobank, and DLL partner to provide €1 billion for European SMEs with a focus on sustainability and agriculture

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The European Investment Bank signs two €250 million loan facilities with Rabobank and its subsidiary DLL, aimed at supporting access to finance for European companies.
    • The Rabobank facility targets SMEs and mid-caps in the Netherlands committed to investing in the energy transition and enhancing their organizational sustainability.
    • The DLL facility provides access to finance, in multiple EU countries, to SMEs and mid-caps focused on climate action and sustainability, with an emphasis on circularity, food, and energy transitions.

    Rabobank, DLL, and the European Investment Bank are partnering to increase access to finance for SMEs and mid-caps with a particular emphasis on sustainability and bioeconomy sectors, including agriculture.

    Rabobank will borrow €250 million from the EIB and match this amount with its own funds, making €500 million available to support small-scale projects undertaken by Dutch SMEs and mid-caps, with a focus on sustainability and agriculture. Specifically, at least 40% of investments are earmarked for climate-relevant investments, and at least 40% of the available funding will be directed towards bioeconomy sectors, including agriculture.

    DLL has secured an additional €250 million, which it will also match with its own funds, aiming to improve access to finance for SMEs and mid-caps across the EU. The focus will be on France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Sweden, Poland, Ireland, and the Netherlands, targeting investments in sustainability by local companies.

    In total, the combined EIB loans as well as Rabobank and DLL’s matching funds will make €1 billion in new funding available for SMEs and mid-caps, with a particular focus on financing climate-relevant and agricultural projects.

    “It is important to understand that climate financing is a key driver of economic growth,” states EIB Vice President Robert de Groot. “We have to look at the bigger picture, which is that climate change is disrupting business and economic behaviours. We have a long track-record with Rabobank and DLL in terms of climate relevant financing, and hope that this facility can convince other financiers to make available more support for entrepreneurs developing more sustainable projects.”

    Carlo van Kemenade, Director Retail NL and Member of the Managing Board of Rabobank: “We are proud to build on the successful partnership with the EIB and the new launch of impact loans. Sustainability is an important pillar of Rabobank’s strategy. Clients are also very positive about this impact loan. The interest rate discount is both a reward for the impact they have as a leader in sustainability and an encouragement to continue on the path we have set with our clients.”

    “As a transition partner for a better world, DLL believes that sustainability is fundamental to long-term business success,” says Lara Yocarini, Member of the Managing Board, Rabobank, and CEO and Chair of the Executive Board of DLL. “The attractive funding from the European Investment Bank will enhance our ability to provide more accessible, affordable, and tailored leasing solutions, ultimately reducing barriers for our partners and customers to invest in more sustainable equipment and technology.”

    Background information:

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals. Over the last ten years, the EIB has made available more than €27 billion in financing for Dutch projects in various sectors, including research & development, transport, drinking water, healthcare, and SMEs.

    The EIB is the European Union’s bank; the only bank owned by and representing the interests of the European Union Member States, The Netherlands owns a 5,2% share of the EIB. It works closely with other EU institutions to implement EU policy and is the world’s largest multilateral borrower and lender. The EIB provides finance and expertise for sustainable investment projects that contribute to EU policy objectives. More than 90% of its activity is in Europe.

    About Rabobank

    Rabobank is an international financial services provider operating on the basis of cooperative principles. It offers retail banking, wholesale banking, private banking, leasing, and real estate services. As a cooperative bank, Rabobank puts customers’ interests first in its services. Rabobank is committed to being a leading customer-focused cooperative bank in the Netherlands and a leading food and agri bank worldwide. Rabobank employed 49,000 FTE per 31 December 2024. Rabobank Group is active in 37 countries.

    About DLL

    DLL is a global asset finance company for equipment and technology with a managed portfolio of more than EUR 47 billion. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, DLL provides financial solutions within the Agriculture, Construction, Energy Transition, Food, Healthcare, Industrial, Technology, Transportation, and Workplace industries in more than 25 countries. The company partners with equipment manufacturers, dealers, and distributors to enable easier access to equipment, technology, and software, to support business growth.

    DLL is committed to a more sustainable future for the environment and the communities in which it operates. Combining customer focus and industry knowledge, DLL provides financial solutions for the complete asset life cycle, including commercial finance, retail finance and used equipment finance. DLL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rabobank Group.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Conflict of interest and political influence in CBAM expert groups – E-002769/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002769/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Barbara Bonte (PfE)

    In June 2025, German newspaper Die Welt revealed that several EU-funded NGOs, including Carbon Market Watch, the European Environmental Bureau (EEB) and ECOS, actively participated in the work of CBAM expert groups, which help shape policy regarding the carbon border adjustment mechanism. These organisations received substantial grants from the Commission and, in some cases, the funding accounted for more than a quarter of their total budget. At the same time, representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been excluded from these groups time and time again, despite the fact that they are directly concerned by the impact of CBAM. These practices raise serious questions about conflicts of interest and deliberate policy manipulation.

    • 1.Why did the Commission prioritise self-funded NGOs in the composition of CBAM expert groups, and on what grounds were SMEs structurally excluded?
    • 2.How does the Commission ensure impartiality when it funds organisations that simultaneously participate in the work of expert groups which are devising policy?
    • 3.Will the Commission provide full transparency on these practices and agree to an independent investigation into conflicts of interest and political influence in the composition and operation of CBAM expert groups?

    Submitted: 8.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Registration and ownership fees for combustion-engine cars as set out in the milestones of Poland’s national recovery plan – E-002626/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002626/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anna Bryłka (PfE)

    The milestones laid out in the Annex to the Proposal for a Council Implementing Decision amending Implementing Decision (EU) (ST 9728/22 INIT; ST/9728/22 ADD 1) of 17 June 2022 on the approval of the assessment of the recovery and resilience plan for Poland introduce an obligation to pay a registration fee and ownership tax for emissions-related vehicles, in line with the ‘polluter pays’ principle.

    Considering the above, can the Commission clarify:

    • 1.How will Poland fulfil milestone E3G concerning the entry into force of a legal act introducing a registration fee for emissions-related vehicles in line with the ‘polluter pays principle’ when this enters into force in Poland?
    • 2.How will Poland fulfil milestone E4G concerning the entry into force of a legal act introducing an ownership tax on emissions-related vehicles in line with the ‘polluter pays principle’ when this enters into force in Poland?
    • 3.Has Poland negotiated the removal of milestones E3G and E4G with the Commission?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The systematic use of wet leasing by airlines and its impact on labour rights – P-002816/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002816/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rosa Serrano Sierra (S&D), Idoia Mendia (S&D), Alicia Homs Ginel (S&D)

    Many airlines operating in the EU systematically subcontract flights during peak months (particularly in the summer) to low-cost carriers, who provide the aircraft and crew and are also responsible for maintenance- and insurance-related arrangements. Known as wet leasing, this practice has become standard among operators looking to cut down on labour and operating costs.

    Many reports indicate that wet-lease staff are working in precarious conditions, the result of false self-employment contracts and ambiguous labour agreements which circumvent national legislation and violate European social and labour protection standards. This practice is undermining working standards in the aviation sector and fostering unfair competition among its operators.

    There are also repercussions for the passengers, who pay for flights without knowing that they have been subcontracted and are not told in advance of the change in service arrangements, a state of affairs which violates their consumer rights and reduces market transparency.

    In the light of the above, and of the fact that national authorities are struggling to implement EU rules:

    • 1.Has the Commission detected a rise in the use of wet leasing in the EU?
    • 2.What measures will it enact to close the legal loopholes that enable companies to use this practice?
    • 3.Will wet leasing be addressed when Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008 is reviewed?

    Submitted: 10.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – AFET ad-hoc delegation to the United States of America – 21-24 July 2025 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on EU-US political relations © Image used under the license from Adobe stock

    A delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), led by Chair David McAllister, will travel to Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia from 21 to 24 July 2025. This will be the Committee’s first official visit to the United States following last year’s elections on both sides of the Atlantic.

    During the trip, Members will discuss how to deepen transatlantic ties, enhance collective security, reinforce the shared commitment to supporting Ukraine, and tackle common challenges such as China’s expanding global influence and the situation in the Middle East. Insights gathered from the visit will inform the Committee’s ongoing work on the own initiative report on EU-US political relations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Missions – CONT Mission to Bratislava (Slovakia), 26-28 May 2025 – Mission Report – 26-05-2025 – Committee on Budgetary Control

    Source: European Parliament

    CONT mission to Slovakia © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    The purpose of this mission was to assess the situation in Slovakia related to ensuring the sound financial Management of EU funds and, more generally, to the protection of the EU’s financial interests.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Chinese carmakers bypassing import duties – E-002770/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002770/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Barbara Bonte (PfE)

    Chinese carmakers have been boosting their sales figures for years by exporting new cars as used cars. That way, they pay lower import duties. The Chinese Government is aware of these practices and encourages such trade.

    According to the China Passenger Car Association, China exported a total of 6.41 million vehicles last year. According to estimates by Wang Meng, a consultant at the China Automobile Dealers Association, about 6 % of these are new vehicles sold as used cars.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of these practices?
    • 2.What concrete measures is the Commission taking to stop this form of cheap dumping?
    • 3.What is the total amount of import duties not collected as a result of this practice?

    Submitted: 8.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Missions – AFET ad-hoc delegation to the United States of America – 21-24 July 2025 – 21-07-2025 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on EU-US political relations © Image used under the license from Adobe stock

    A delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), led by Chair David McAllister, will travel to Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia from 21 to 24 July 2025. This will be the Committee’s first official visit to the United States following last year’s elections on both sides of the Atlantic.

    During the trip, Members will discuss how to deepen transatlantic ties, enhance collective security, reinforce the shared commitment to supporting Ukraine, and tackle common challenges such as China’s expanding global influence and the situation in the Middle East. Insights gathered from the visit will inform the Committee’s ongoing work on the own initiative report on EU-US political relations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: In-Depth Analysis – The Scope of the 28th Regime – 15-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This in-depth analysis, commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Justice, Civil Liberties and Institutional Affairs at the request of the Committee on Legal Affairs, examines the scope of the proposed 28th regime. For the 28th regime to be successful, it needs to be user-friendly and widely adopted, thereby fostering trust and investment. Restricting access to ‘innovative companies’ could create bureaucratic obstacles that would discourage entrepreneurs and investors. Rather than restricting access, the 28th regime should be open to businesses of all kinds and designed to meet the needs of innovative businesses, including those with an exit strategy who wish to attract VC funding and those with a vision of long-term independence. Broad access to most parts of the 28th regime – especially in the area of company law – should be combined with targeted measures to a modular approach.

    MIL OSI Europe News –