EU copyright law provides performers with exclusive rights to authorise or prohibit the use of their performances by third parties. The rights protecting performances however do not extend to the use of an artist’s voice, likeness or other characterising features.
Under the General Data Protection Regulation[1] (GDPR) consent is one of the six legal grounds for lawful personal data processing. However, the controller may rely on legitimate interest where that interest prevails over the interests or rights of the data subjects.
The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) held that, subject to certain conditions, legitimate interest could be relied upon for the development of AI models.[2]
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act[3] sets out transparency obligations for AI systems that generate or manipulate content, including deepfakes.
Specifically, providers of AI systems generating synthetic audio, image, video or text content shall ensure that the outputs of the AI system are marked in a machine-readable format and are detectable as artificially generated or manipulated. Those rules aim at protecting the integrity and trust in the information ecosystem and mitigate the risk of impersonation.
Under the current multiannual financial framework, the MEDIA and Cross-sectoral strands of Creative Europe offer opportunities for applicants to submit projects that focus on helping the audiovisual and media sectors to foster their uptake of AI (including for dubbing), while mitigating the risks posed by this technology.
Since January 2025, five Nordic film festivals have been supported (under the project ‘NojSe’) to use AI in dubbing integrating new technologies in translation and subtitling while supporting the artistic community.
[1] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation), OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
Under the Habitats Directive[1], w olf populations north of the river Duero[2] are currently listed in Annex V. According to Article 14 of the directive, Member States must take measures to ensure that the exploitation of species listed in Annex V is compatible with their being maintained at a favourable conservation status.
According to the information submitted by Spain in the latest report under Article 17 of the directive for the period 2013-2018, the wolf was in unfavourable conservation status in all three biogeographical regions of Spain[3]. A new report covering the period 2019-2024 is expected to be submitted by July 2025.
In Case C-436/22[4], the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruled that Article 14 of the directive precludes Spanish legislation which permitted the hunting of the wolf, since the species was listed in Annex V and the conservation status of that species is classified as ‘unfavourable poor’.
Additionally, the CJEU confirmed that if there remains uncertainty as to whether the exploitation of a species of Community interest is compatible with the maintenance of that species at a favourable conservation status, the Member State must refrain from authorising such exploitation.
The Commission awaits the up-to-date information on the conservation status of the wolf in Spain, as part of reporting obligations under the directive for the period 2019-2024.
In light of the prevention and precautionary principles, the competent authorities should ensure that decisions related to the hunting of wolf populations listed in Annex V are based on sound scientific evidence regarding the species conservation status .
[1] Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
Question for written answer E-002654/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Leire Pajín (S&D), Nicolás González Casares (S&D)
At the end of June 2025, the authorities of multiple countries in Southern Europe sent their respective citizens alerts about high temperatures, which reached record-high levels. According to one study, approximately 43 000 people die each year due to extreme heat, and projections indicate that deaths linked to heat could triple with respect to current rates. The risks associated with climate change must be urgently addressed to avoid putting EU citizens’ health and safety at even greater risk.
1.What concrete measures is the Commission taking in collaboration with Member States to prevent deaths, forest fires and other adverse effects of heatwaves?
2.To what extent will the Commission integrate the fight against the worst effects of heatwaves in Europe into its Preparedness Union Strategy and, specifically, in the next strategy on adaptation to climate change?
3.How does the Commission intend to ensure adequate funding for adaptation to climate change in the next multiannual financial framework?
The placing on the market and releasing in the environment of genetically modified (GM) animals in the EU is subject to the GM Organisms (GMO) legislation[1], regardless of where the genetic alteration is carried out. The legislation does not preclude modifications to feature traits of extinct animals.
Any GMO (including GM animals) can only be released after authorisation, following a comprehensive risk assessment concluding that there are no risks for health or the environment, and in conformity with any conditions required. This assessment routinely includes, among others, animal welfare and potential implications for animals and nature.
In addition, specifically for protected habitats and species in the EU, the effects of any deliberate release into the environment of GMOs must also be considered in relation to the EU law requirement to maintain or restore the favourable conservation status of the protected species and habitats[2].
In the event of the deliberate release of a GM animal without authorisation, or instances of migration of such animals into their territory, Member States must take the necessary remedial action, and inform its public, the Commission, and other Member States.
The GMO legislation recognises that Member States may take into consideration ethical aspects in this context[3]. It also allows consultation of relevant committees on ethics, such as the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies, on the ethical implications of biotechnology, either on the Commission’s own initiative or at the request of the European Parliament, the Council or a Member State.
Based on the above, the Commission considers that the current EU legislation is adequate to handle cases such as the one described by the Honourable Member.
[2] Article 22(b) of Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
The assessment of a medicinal product is based solely on scientific evidence[1], not political pressure. There is a robust procedure established that must be followed before granting a marketing authorisation[2].
When an application for a marketing authorisation of a medicinal product is submitted in the EU, the information included in a dossier is carefully assessed by the European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use[3].
This assessment is summarised in a publicly available report (European Public Assessment Report[4]) that also includes the verification of the compliance of good clinical practices.
The criteria used to consider the need of an inspection are published on the EMA website[5]. In some cases, inspections may not be feasible or necessary.
Instead, alternative methods that provide the required level of assurance, including inspections conducted by other globally recognised regulatory authorities, may be considered. The decision is based on the triggers identified. During COVID-19, the need for inspections was assessed and decided on a case-by-case basis.
In the EU, there is a robust safety monitoring and risk management (pharmacovigilance) system to supervise every medicinal product throughout its use in healthcare practice.
For each medicinal product, safety updates are regularly assessed through the Periodic Safety Update Reports (PSURs[6]). These assessments are carried out by the EMA’s Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee[7] and permit to identify any new potential risks.
The safety and efficacy of all medicinal products, including COVID-19 vaccines, have always been a top priority for the Commission.
[1] How EMA evaluates medicines for human use https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/about-us/what-we-do/authorisation-medicines/how-ema-evaluates-medicines-human-use#assessment-process-13164.
[2] Authorisation of medicines https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/about-us/what-we-do/authorisation-medicines.
[3] Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/committees/committee-medicinal-products-human-use-chmp.
[4] European public assessment reports: background and context https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/what-we-publish-medicines-when/european-public-assessment-reports-background-context.
The increasing dependence on third countries for the manufacturing of medicinal products and their components is a pressing concern. In response, the Commission has undertaken a range of measures to strengthen the security of supply, including initiatives to incentivise the manufacturing of critical medicines inside the EU.
A cornerstone of these efforts is the Commission’s proposal for a Critical Medicines Act[1], adopted on 11 March 2025. The proposed Act aims to bolster EU-based manufacturing capacity for critical medicines by identifying strategic projects and leveraging public procurement mechanisms.
The proposed Act also recognises the importance of ensuring affordability of medicinal products. While enhancing supply security may entail additional costs, the proposed Critical Medicines Act aims to foster cooperation amongst the Member States, enabling a coordinated and cost-efficient approach to invest in security of supply and thereby reduce the important burden of critical shortages for patients, healthcare providers and society.
The Commission remains firmly committed to ensuring that patients have access to the medicines they need, when they need them.
U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/08/2025 03:30 PM EDT
News Release
U.S. Coast Guard Southeast District PA Detachment Jacksonville Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Jacksonville Office: 904-714-7606/7607 After Hours: 786-393-4138 PA Detachment Jacksonville online newsroom
07/08/2025 03:06 PM EDT
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville terminated the voyage of an illegal charter vessel, Friday, operating on the St. Johns River.
Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)
CHARLESTON, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a 15-count indictment against four from the Charleston area in connection with sex trafficking. The charges stem from an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and Charleston Police Department that uncovered sex trafficking, money laundering, conspiracy offenses, and related charges.
The individuals charged include:
Johnathan Dais, 33, of Charleston, for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking; sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; attempted sex trafficking of a child; use of a facility of interstate commerce to promote an unlawful activity; false statements; conspiracy to commit money laundering; and money laundering.
Calvin Wolfe, 54, of Charleston, for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion.
Rose Stoner a/k/a Rose Wolfe, 50, of Charleston, for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion.
Alexis McInnis, 20, of Charleston, for use of a facility of interstate commerce to promote an unlawful activity; false statements; and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The indictment alleges that between 2016 and 2025, Dais, and at times his co-conspirators, Wolfe and Stoner a/k/a Wolfe, recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, …. And sex trafficked at least five victims by force, fraud, or coercion, including one minor victim. The indictment also alleges Dais and McInnis used facilities of interstate commerce to promote prostitution activity, and that they each made false statements to law enforcement during the investigation. Dais and McInnis are also charged with laundering the funds derived from such unlawful activities.
Sex trafficking carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and money laundering carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Johnathan Dais, Calvin Wolfe, and Rose Stoner a/k/a Wolfe are currently detained pending trial, and Alexis McInnis was granted a $5,000 unsecured bond on July 7 by the Honorable Molly Cherry.
Authorities with Homeland Security Investigations and the Charleston Police Department are seeking information that may help identify additional victims exploited by these individuals. If you, or someone you know, was a victim, please provide a name and contact information to the following email address, with subject line referencing Johnathan Dais: Charleston_ExploitationTips@hsi.dhs.gov.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Orville is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday he ordered an expansion of contacts with the United States to ensure critical deliveries of military supplies, primarily air defence.
Zelenskiy issued his call a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington would send more weapons to Ukraine, mainly defensive ones, to help the country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.
“Today, I instructed the minister of defence and the commander in chief to intensify all contacts with the American side,” Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address.
“We currently have all the necessary political statements and decisions and we must implement them as quickly as possible to protect our people and positions,” he said.
Zelenskiy said the current focus for deliveries was on “air defence, as well as other elements of supply from the U.S.”
“These are critical deliveries that mean saving lives and protecting Ukrainian cities and villages. I expect results from these contacts very soon. And this week, we are preparing formats for meetings of our military and political teams.”
The U.S. Defense Department said it would send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s direction, to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace.
The U.S. decision to halt some arms shipments to Kyiv prompted Ukraine to warn the move would crimp its ability to fend off Russia’s air strikes and battlefield advances.
Russia’s military has in recent weeks boosted air attacks on Ukrainian cities by drones and missiles.
Trump on Tuesday again expressed disappointment at Russian President Vladimir Putin over the failure to introduce a ceasefire as part of moves to secure a peace. He said he was considering additional sanctions on Moscow.
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Francis Ryan, Associate Professor of Labor Studies and Employment Relations, Rutgers University
Curbside trash collection has been on pause in Philadelphia since July 1, 2025.AP Photo/Matt Slocum
As the Philadelphia municipal worker strike enters its second week, so-called “Parker piles” – large collections of garbage that some residents blame on Mayor Cherelle Parker – continue to build up in neighborhoods across the city.
Some city residents are referring to the garbage build-up sites as ‘Parker piles.’ AP Photo/Tassanee Vejpongsa
How successful are trash strikes in Philly or other U.S. cities?
As I describe in my book, Philadelphia has a long history of sanitation strikes that goes back to March 1937. At that time, a brief work stoppage brought about discussions between the city administration and an early version of the current union.
This strike was a major event because it showed how damaging a garbage strike could be. The fact that strikers were willing to fight in the streets to stop trash services showed that such events had the potential for violence, not to mention the health concerns from having tons of trash on the streets.
There was another two-week trash strike in Philadelphia in 1944, but there wouldn’t be another for more than 20 years.
However, a growing number of sanitation strikes popped up around the country in the 1960s, the most infamous being the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Strike.
Black sanitation workers peacefully march wearing placards reading ‘I Am A Man’ during the Memphis sanitation strike in 1968. Bettmann via Getty Images
In Memphis, a majority African American sanitation workforce demanded higher wages, basic safety procedures and recognition of their union. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. rallied to support the Memphis workers and their families as part of his Poor Peoples’ Campaign, which sought to organize working people from across the nation into a new coalition to demand full economic and political rights.
Following the Memphis strike, AFSCME began organizing public workers around the country and through the coming years into the 1970s, there were sanitation strikes and slowdowns across the nation including in New York City, Atlanta, Cleveland and Washington, D.C. Often, these workers, who were predominantly African American, gained the support of significant sections of the communities they served and secured modest wage boosts.
By the 1980s, such labor actions were becoming fewer. In 1986, Philadelphia witnessed a three-week sanitation strike that ended with the union gaining some of its wage demands, but losing on key areas related to health care benefits.
Workers begin removing mounds of trash after returning to work after the 18-day strike in Philadelphia in July 1986. Bettmann via Getty Images
How do wages and benefits for DC33 workers compare to other U.S. cities?
Unlike other eras, the fact that social media makes public these personal narratives and perspectives – like from former sanitation worker Terrill Haigler, aka “Ya Fav Trashman” – is shaping the way many citizens respond to these disruptions. I see a level of support for the strikers that I believe is unprecedented going back as far as 1938.
What do you think is behind this support?
The pandemic made people more aware of the role of essential workers in society. If the men and women who do these jobs can’t afford their basic needs, something isn’t right. This may explain why so many people are seeing things from the perspective of striking workers.
At the same time, money is being cut from important services at the federal, state and local levels. The proposed gutting of the city’s mass transit system by state lawmakers is a case in point. Social media allows people to make these broader connections and start conversations.
If the strike continues much longer, I think it will gain more national and international attention, and bring discussions about how workers should be treated to the forefront.
Francis Ryan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
July 08, 2025
Rep. Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) introduced a new bill to check presidential authority under the centuries-old Insurrection Act. The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would reform legislation from 1807 that provides the President broad and vague authority to deploy troops—with or without the request of a state—to suppress “any insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy.” Presidents have rarely used the current law, recognizing the long American tradition of keeping the military out of domestic law enforcement.
Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) said, “The troubling scenes unfolding in Los Angeles give us a glimpse of what could happen nationwide if President Trump tries to invoke the Insurrection Act and turn U.S. troops on civilians. We’ve already seen him twist the law for political gain, so Congress must leave zero ambiguity about when—and for how long—any president can deploy the military for domestic law-enforcement purposes. That’s why I was relieved that last month, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine agreed with me that there’s currently no military invasion on our southern border that would justify invoking this law. Now we must go a step further by passing the Insurrection Act of 2025—modernizing the 1807 statute for the 21st century to narrow this authority and mandate transparency, accountability, and consultation with Congress.”
“No President should have such wide-ranging power to deploy American troops against the American people,” said Congressman Deluzio. “This President has threatened to use the United States military to crush dissent among the American people, and Congress should act to reform and update the law that governs deployment of our troops for law enforcement in the United States. We need these urgent reforms to the centuries-old Insurrection Act so that no President has such expansive power to use military force against Americans.”
The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would:
Clarify that the law cannot be used to suspend habeas corpus, impose martial law, or deputize private militias to act as soldiers.
Require a report to Congress providing an explicit justification for the use of the Insurrection Act’s authority, as enumerated in this legislation, and a full description of the scope and duration of its use.
Provide for judicial review to ensure that individuals, or a state or local government, may bring a civil action if the President’s authority under the Insurrection Act is misused or abused.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
July 08, 2025
Rep. Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) introduced a new bill to check presidential authority under the centuries-old Insurrection Act. The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would reform legislation from 1807 that provides the President broad and vague authority to deploy troops—with or without the request of a state—to suppress “any insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy.” Presidents have rarely used the current law, recognizing the long American tradition of keeping the military out of domestic law enforcement.
Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) said, “The troubling scenes unfolding in Los Angeles give us a glimpse of what could happen nationwide if President Trump tries to invoke the Insurrection Act and turn U.S. troops on civilians. We’ve already seen him twist the law for political gain, so Congress must leave zero ambiguity about when—and for how long—any president can deploy the military for domestic law-enforcement purposes. That’s why I was relieved that last month, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine agreed with me that there’s currently no military invasion on our southern border that would justify invoking this law. Now we must go a step further by passing the Insurrection Act of 2025—modernizing the 1807 statute for the 21st century to narrow this authority and mandate transparency, accountability, and consultation with Congress.”
“No President should have such wide-ranging power to deploy American troops against the American people,” said Congressman Deluzio. “This President has threatened to use the United States military to crush dissent among the American people, and Congress should act to reform and update the law that governs deployment of our troops for law enforcement in the United States. We need these urgent reforms to the centuries-old Insurrection Act so that no President has such expansive power to use military force against Americans.”
The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would:
Clarify that the law cannot be used to suspend habeas corpus, impose martial law, or deputize private militias to act as soldiers.
Require a report to Congress providing an explicit justification for the use of the Insurrection Act’s authority, as enumerated in this legislation, and a full description of the scope and duration of its use.
Provide for judicial review to ensure that individuals, or a state or local government, may bring a civil action if the President’s authority under the Insurrection Act is misused or abused.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
July 08, 2025
Rep. Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) introduced a new bill to check presidential authority under the centuries-old Insurrection Act. The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would reform legislation from 1807 that provides the President broad and vague authority to deploy troops—with or without the request of a state—to suppress “any insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy.” Presidents have rarely used the current law, recognizing the long American tradition of keeping the military out of domestic law enforcement.
Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) said, “The troubling scenes unfolding in Los Angeles give us a glimpse of what could happen nationwide if President Trump tries to invoke the Insurrection Act and turn U.S. troops on civilians. We’ve already seen him twist the law for political gain, so Congress must leave zero ambiguity about when—and for how long—any president can deploy the military for domestic law-enforcement purposes. That’s why I was relieved that last month, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine agreed with me that there’s currently no military invasion on our southern border that would justify invoking this law. Now we must go a step further by passing the Insurrection Act of 2025—modernizing the 1807 statute for the 21st century to narrow this authority and mandate transparency, accountability, and consultation with Congress.”
“No President should have such wide-ranging power to deploy American troops against the American people,” said Congressman Deluzio. “This President has threatened to use the United States military to crush dissent among the American people, and Congress should act to reform and update the law that governs deployment of our troops for law enforcement in the United States. We need these urgent reforms to the centuries-old Insurrection Act so that no President has such expansive power to use military force against Americans.”
The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would:
Clarify that the law cannot be used to suspend habeas corpus, impose martial law, or deputize private militias to act as soldiers.
Require a report to Congress providing an explicit justification for the use of the Insurrection Act’s authority, as enumerated in this legislation, and a full description of the scope and duration of its use.
Provide for judicial review to ensure that individuals, or a state or local government, may bring a civil action if the President’s authority under the Insurrection Act is misused or abused.
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, introduced new legislation to require immigration enforcement officers to display clearly visible identification during public-facing enforcement actions. The Visible Identification Standards for Immigration-Based Law Enforcement (VISIBLE) Act of 2025 would strengthen oversight, transparency, and accountability for the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate and alarming immigration enforcement tactics that have terrorized communities across California and the nation.
Under the Trump Administration’s mass deportation agenda, civil immigration enforcement operations have increasingly involved Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officers engaging with the public while wearing unmarked tactical gear, concealing clothing, and face coverings that obscure both agency affiliation and personal identity. Without visible badges, names, or insignia, members of the public often have no way to confirm whether they are interacting with legitimate government officials.
This lack of transparency endangers public safety by causing widespread confusion and fear, especially in communities already subject to heightened immigration scrutiny. It also increases operational and safety risks for law enforcement personnel by creating an opportunity for immigration enforcement impersonators and compounding uncertainty in high-stress situations. Clear, consistent, visible identification helps reduce miscommunication during enforcement encounters, strengthens officer credibility, and improves public cooperation, all of which are vital to mission success. The VISIBLE Actwould place a critical check on the government’s power, ensuring basic transparency safeguards that protect public trust and legitimacy in immigration enforcement operations.
“For weeks, Americans have watched federal agents with no visible identification detain people off the streets and instill fear in communities across the country. Reports of individuals impersonating ICE officers have only increased the risk to public and officer safety. The lack of visible identification and uniform standards for immigration enforcement officers has created confusion, stoked fear, and undermined public trust in law enforcement,” said Senator Booker. “The VISIBLE Act is a necessary response grounded in law enforcement best practices that will prohibit immigration enforcement officers from wearing face coverings and require them to display their name or badge number and the agency they represent. We must act to maintain trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and this legislation is a necessary step toward a more transparent, accountable, and safe immigration enforcement system.”
“When federal immigration agents show up and pull someone off the street in plainclothes with their face obscured and no visible identification, it only escalates tensions and spreads fear while shielding federal agents from basic accountability,” said Senator Padilla. “Immigration agents should be required to display their agency and name or badge number — just like police and other local law enforcement agencies. The VISIBLE Act’s commonsense requirements will restore transparency and ensure impersonators can’t exploit the panic and confusion caused by unidentifiable federal immigration enforcement agents.”
“This bill is an important step toward keeping immigration enforcement officers and all the people in America safe. Masked, plainclothes officers create an unreasonable risk of escalating violence and unnerve everyone who sees them,” said Scott Shuchart, Former ICE and DHS (Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties) Official. “As much as the cop in blues is a staple of American life, the masked bandit is a symbol of fear, and having government agents dressed like paramilitaries is un-American. Based on my experience in government, the VISIBLE Act makes good sense and would be straightforward for DHS officials to implement.”
Specifically, the VISIBLE Act:
Requires immigration enforcement officers — including DHS personnel such as Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), federal agents detailed to immigration operations, and deputized state or local officers — to display clearly legible identification, including their agency name or initials and either their name or badge number, in a manner that remains visible and unobscured by tactical gear or clothing;
Prohibits non-medical face coverings (such as masks or balaclavas) that obscure identity or facial visibility, with exceptions for environmental hazards or covert operations; and
Requires DHS to establish disciplinary procedures for violations, report annually to Congress on compliance, and investigate complaints through its Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties.
The bill does not apply to covert or non-public facing operations, nor does it prohibit face coverings when necessary for officer safety. It also does not apply to enforcement actions conducted solely under criminal authority.
The VISIBLE Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Patty Murray (D-WA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
The bill is endorsed by the ACLU and Public Counsel.
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced a new hire and staff promotions on his communications team.
David Bergstein has joined Booker’s office as Communications Director. Most recently, Bergstein served four years as Communications Director of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC). During the 2020 presidential cycle, Bergstein served as Director of Battleground State Communications for the Democratic National Committee. His additional experience includes working as the National Press Secretary for the DSCC, Southern Regional Press Secretary for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and holding senior communications roles on campaigns for Senate, Governor, U.S. House and Mayor.
Jeff Giertz has been promoted to Staff Director of Senate Democrats’ Strategic Communications Committee, which is chaired by Senator Booker. Giertz most recently served as Senator Booker’s Senior Advisor and Communications Director. Giertz first joined Booker’s office in 2015, and also worked as National Communications Director on Booker’s presidential campaign in 2019.
Maya Krishna-Rogers has been promoted to Senior Advisor. Krishna-Rogers most recently served as Senator Booker’s Deputy Communications Director. She first joined Booker’s office in 2022 as National Press Secretary.
“David’s knowledge and skills will strengthen our tremendously talented communications team in the fights ahead – and I look forward to working with David, Jeff, and Maya to stand up for New Jerseyans and all Americans in this moment when the need for clear voices, a strong message and new tactics has never been more important,” said Senator Booker.
“Senator Booker is a leader who stands up no matter how tough or how long the fight, and his voice rallies Americans of every background and political persuasion to do what is right. I look forward to joining his team and I’m excited to get to work,” said Senator Booker Communications Director David Bergstein.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) led her colleagues in the Michigan Democratic delegation in sending a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon requesting answers about federally appropriated funds that have been withheld from school districts across the country, including over $156 million for Michigan.
These federal funds, used to support important K-12 programs and extracurricular activities, have historically been delivered to school districts by July 1 to ensure there is adequate time to plan before the beginning of the new school year.
“Despite having already been appropriated by Congress and enacted into law by President Trump when he signed the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 on March 15, 2025, funds for this year are now being withheld pending a review,” the lawmakers write. “The uncertainty surrounding the unprecedented withholding of these funds will force districts to make budgetary adjustments that will lead to larger class sizes due to reductions in staff, restrict access to before- and after-school programs, and will impact services provided to students with disabilities, to name a few consequences.”
“In past years, the funds were sent to Michigan by July 1 to ensure the districts had ample time to properly finance and plan for the upcoming school year,” the lawmakers continue. “With the funds being withheld, districts now face tremendous fiscal uncertainty, preventing them from being able to prepare for the programs, training, and services required for school educators and students alike. We, the undersigned members of the Michigan delegation, urge the Department of Education to release the appropriated funds to give school districts the certainty they need for the upcoming school year.”
“In Michigan, the withheld funds are expected to have a significant fiscal impact on school systems. The state relies on this funding to train teachers and administrators, provide high-quality digital learning opportunities for students living in rural communities, invest in assistive technology to educate students with disabilities, and support school-based mental health services, counseling, and systems and practices to prevent bullying and harassment,”the lawmakers conclude.“These robust programs are authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and are essential for students of all ages to supplement their learning and participate in to grow thoughtful and well-rounded students. Withholding the funds will weaken the state of public education in our state and quality of learners for our future.”
The lawmakers requested answers to the following questions:
Since the appropriated funds were enacted by President Trump and have been received by school districts by July 1st in previous years, when should states and school districts expect to receive these Congressionally appropriated funds?
How are federally funded public school districts expected to support their students, teachers, and staff without the expected funding budget at the start of the 2025-2026 school year?
What impacts do you expect funding delays to have on school districts, especially those in rural and underserved communities?
What is the reason the Department of Education and/or the Office of Management and Budget chose to delay the funds?
Are you abiding by federal regulations which mandate that federal agencies determine if a specific recipient’s grant should be terminated, notify grant recipients of the termination, and provide each recipient with an opportunity to object through an appeals process?
If not, please explain the process that the State of Michigan must go through to ensure proper and expected federal funding for their appropriated sum.
The letter is signed by Representatives Haley Stevens, Rashida Tlaib, Shri Thanedar, Hillary Scholten, and Kristen McDonald Rivet.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) led her colleagues in the Michigan Democratic delegation in sending a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon requesting answers about federally appropriated funds that have been withheld from school districts across the country, including over $156 million for Michigan.
These federal funds, used to support important K-12 programs and extracurricular activities, have historically been delivered to school districts by July 1 to ensure there is adequate time to plan before the beginning of the new school year.
“Despite having already been appropriated by Congress and enacted into law by President Trump when he signed the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 on March 15, 2025, funds for this year are now being withheld pending a review,” the lawmakers write. “The uncertainty surrounding the unprecedented withholding of these funds will force districts to make budgetary adjustments that will lead to larger class sizes due to reductions in staff, restrict access to before- and after-school programs, and will impact services provided to students with disabilities, to name a few consequences.”
“In past years, the funds were sent to Michigan by July 1 to ensure the districts had ample time to properly finance and plan for the upcoming school year,” the lawmakers continue. “With the funds being withheld, districts now face tremendous fiscal uncertainty, preventing them from being able to prepare for the programs, training, and services required for school educators and students alike. We, the undersigned members of the Michigan delegation, urge the Department of Education to release the appropriated funds to give school districts the certainty they need for the upcoming school year.”
“In Michigan, the withheld funds are expected to have a significant fiscal impact on school systems. The state relies on this funding to train teachers and administrators, provide high-quality digital learning opportunities for students living in rural communities, invest in assistive technology to educate students with disabilities, and support school-based mental health services, counseling, and systems and practices to prevent bullying and harassment,”the lawmakers conclude.“These robust programs are authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and are essential for students of all ages to supplement their learning and participate in to grow thoughtful and well-rounded students. Withholding the funds will weaken the state of public education in our state and quality of learners for our future.”
The lawmakers requested answers to the following questions:
Since the appropriated funds were enacted by President Trump and have been received by school districts by July 1st in previous years, when should states and school districts expect to receive these Congressionally appropriated funds?
How are federally funded public school districts expected to support their students, teachers, and staff without the expected funding budget at the start of the 2025-2026 school year?
What impacts do you expect funding delays to have on school districts, especially those in rural and underserved communities?
What is the reason the Department of Education and/or the Office of Management and Budget chose to delay the funds?
Are you abiding by federal regulations which mandate that federal agencies determine if a specific recipient’s grant should be terminated, notify grant recipients of the termination, and provide each recipient with an opportunity to object through an appeals process?
If not, please explain the process that the State of Michigan must go through to ensure proper and expected federal funding for their appropriated sum.
The letter is signed by Representatives Haley Stevens, Rashida Tlaib, Shri Thanedar, Hillary Scholten, and Kristen McDonald Rivet.
Question for written answer E-002683/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Ilhan Kyuchyuk (Renew)
The introduction of the euro in Bulgaria has raised serious concern among the public, mainly in connection with potential price rises. The experience of other Member States shows that such fears are not unjustified, especially in the absence of any effective control over commercial practices. Clear consumer protection mechanisms based on good European practices need to be implemented in order to avoid any speculative price increases.
Moreover, a smooth transition to the euro calls not only for political will but also strong financial and technical support from the EU institutions. This is particularly important for countries with less-developed economies, such as Bulgaria, which need resource support to help adapt their systems and businesses.
1.This situation begs two important questions: what measures does the Commission recommend to limit any irregular appreciation of prices after the introduction of the euro?
2.What financial and technical support can be provided to Bulgaria to ensure a successful transition to the euro?
Portland, ME – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in Maine, announce the arrest of Ja’bril Roynell Walters, 31, in Auburn, ME for first-degree murder, second-degree murder, use of a firearm in commission of a violent crime, and 5 counts of first degree assault. All warrants were issued out of the State of Maryland.
The USMS led, Maine Violent Offender Task Force (MVOTF), received a collateral lead from the USMS Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF) in Maryland. They believed Walters had fled to Maine and maybe be hiding under an alias. Walters had been wanted since July of 2024.
Task Force members, through thorough investigative efforts, which spanned the towns of Durham, Lewiston, and Auburn, developed significant information which led investigators to a residence in Auburn, ME. Task Force members were able to identify Walters inside a house and safely apprehend him without incident.
Walters was charged as a Fugitive from Justice, pending his extradition back to Maryland.
The District of Maine’s, Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal, Josh Taylor said, “The Maine Violent Offender Task Force will go to unlimited lengths to bring dangerous fugitives to justice in order to keep communities in Maine safe.” The USMS MVOTF was also assisted by the Lewiston Police Department.
The USMS, Maine Violent Offender Task Force is comprised of members of the U.S. Marshals Service, Maine Department of Corrections, Biddeford Police Department, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Maine National Guard Counterdrug Task Force, and the Coast Guard Investigative Service.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of any state or federal fugitive, please contact the United States Marshals Service, District of Maine at MED.TIPLINE@usdoj.gov.
Portland, ME – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in Maine, announce the arrest of Ja’bril Roynell Walters, 31, in Auburn, ME for first-degree murder, second-degree murder, use of a firearm in commission of a violent crime, and 5 counts of first degree assault. All warrants were issued out of the State of Maryland.
The USMS led, Maine Violent Offender Task Force (MVOTF), received a collateral lead from the USMS Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF) in Maryland. They believed Walters had fled to Maine and maybe be hiding under an alias. Walters had been wanted since July of 2024.
Task Force members, through thorough investigative efforts, which spanned the towns of Durham, Lewiston, and Auburn, developed significant information which led investigators to a residence in Auburn, ME. Task Force members were able to identify Walters inside a house and safely apprehend him without incident.
Walters was charged as a Fugitive from Justice, pending his extradition back to Maryland.
The District of Maine’s, Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal, Josh Taylor said, “The Maine Violent Offender Task Force will go to unlimited lengths to bring dangerous fugitives to justice in order to keep communities in Maine safe.” The USMS MVOTF was also assisted by the Lewiston Police Department.
The USMS, Maine Violent Offender Task Force is comprised of members of the U.S. Marshals Service, Maine Department of Corrections, Biddeford Police Department, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Maine National Guard Counterdrug Task Force, and the Coast Guard Investigative Service.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of any state or federal fugitive, please contact the United States Marshals Service, District of Maine at MED.TIPLINE@usdoj.gov.
Headline: Verizon donates $100,000 to support Texas Search and Rescue and waives call/text/data usage for hardest hit customers
What you need to know:
In response to the flash floods on July 4, Verizon is donating $100,000 to Texas Search and Rescue (TEXSAR) to aid their vital search, rescue, and recovery operations.
Verizon is waiving domestic call/text/data usage incurred July 7 – Aug 3 for consumer prepaid, postpaid, and small business customers* in 95 zip codes across 28 affected Central Texas counties.
The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team has provided low-earth orbit satellite devices to aid the Texas Department of Public Safety’s drone search and recovery operations.
IRVING, T.X. – In response to the devastating Central Texas floods, Verizon is supporting its customers and local communities by donating $100,000 to Texas Search and Rescue, a first responder organization that deploys professionally trained volunteers throughout the state of Texas to support its crucial search, rescue, and recovery operations.
In addition to the donation, Verizon is waiving domestic call/text/data usage from July 7 to August 3 for all consumers (prepaid and postpaid), small business accounts*, and Verizon Prepaid users on metered plans across 95 zip codes in 28 affected Central Texas counties. This includes customers of Verizon’s prepaid brands like Straight Talk, Total Wireless, Walmart Family Mobile, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, Net 10, Page Plus, Safelink, and Go Smart. No action is required from customers in the impacted zip codes to receive this relief offer. Further details on eligible Central Texas counties and zip codes are available at Verizon.com.
“Our hearts go out to those impacted by the heartbreaking scale of the Central Texas floods,” said Michelle R. Miller, Senior Vice President at Verizon. “We are committed to providing the resources and connectivity our neighbors need for safety and recovery. This donation and relief offer are how we can help when it matters most.”
“Verizon’s generous donation is an incredible boost to our efforts as we continue to support local authorities through search, rescue, and recovery operations in Central Texas,” said Justin McInnis, President and CEO of TEXSAR. “Their support directly enables our volunteer first responders to provide assistance to those impacted by these catastrophic floods, ensuring we have the resources needed to continue our ongoing search efforts.”
Despite the extensive devastation across the region, Verizon’s network remains operational. Its teams are actively monitoring the situation to prioritize life, safety and connectivity. Verizon is also in contact with local public safety and emergency management teams to coordinate any communication needs or support. This includes providing low-earth orbit satellite devices to aid the Texas Department of Public Safety’s drone search and recovery operations.
Beyond aiding search and recovery, satellites play a crucial role in making connectivity more reliable for customers. With select Android and iOS devices, customers can access satellite messaging and emergency SOS features, including location detection, in some areas without traditional cellular coverage. To learn more about satellite messaging: https://www.verizon.com/wireless-devices/smartphones/messages-via-satellite/.
Find the latest updates at the Verizon Emergency Resource Center: https://www.verizon.com/about/news/emergency-resource-center.
*Verizon small business customers include customers with 50 lines or less.
Headline: Committee highlights active engagement and thematic progress at Trade and Environment Week
Trade and Environment Week 2025
The WTO Secretariat report on the event highlighted the active engagement and vibrant discussions that took place throughout Trade and Environment Week as members and stakeholders explored the evolving relationship between trade and the environment. The 15 sessions, organized by WTO members, attracted high levels of participation, both in person and online.
Key topics included agriculture and sustainability, climate resilience, carbon measures, deforestation and the circular economy, and decarbonizing supply chains. In addition, three WTO environmental initiatives – on fossil fuel subsidies, plastic pollution and sustainable development solutions – hosted events emphasizing inclusive approaches and developing country perspectives.
Members hailed the event’s successful conclusion, acknowledging the breadth and depth of its discussions and its value as a platform for sharing experiences, generating new ideas and fostering collaboration among members and diverse stakeholders to better leverage trade policy in support of environmental sustainability and climate goals.
The full programme and video recordings of the 2025 Trade and Environment Week are available here.
Submissions
At the 4 July meeting of the CTE, WTO members reviewed two submissions. The first was a joint submission by Japan and the Republic of Korea titled “Non-Binding Guidance on Methodologies for Measuring Embedded Emissions”, co-sponsored by Australia and the United Kingdom. Japan explained that the proposal aims to enhance transparency and interoperability around requirements for measuring embedded emissions in cross-border goods trade. It stressed that the proposal is intended to promote cooperation and to take on board the development dimension, and does not affect members’ existing WTO rights and obligations.
A large number of delegations provided detailed and constructive comments on the new submission, and it was welcomed by many members who shared similar concerns over the high compliance costs – particularly for small businesses in developing economies and least-developed countries (LDCs) – caused by divergent approaches for measuring emissions. Several members underscored the importance of considering varying levels of development and climate responsibilities, and called for more inclusive consultations during the legislative processes.
While welcoming the increased transparency envisaged in the proposal, some members emphasized that transparency should not replace or duplicate required notifications to relevant WTO bodies, nor place additional burdens on developing members. Many expressed openness to continuing work on the proposal with the co-sponsors.
The second submission, tabled by Russia, was titled “Future Rules of Trade in Plastic Products and the WTO: Potential Conflict”. This paper raised concerns that future rules emerging from the ongoing UN plastics treaty negotiations – led by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) – could create trade barriers, particularly for polymers and plastic products, and could conflict with WTO disciplines. The next round of INC negotiations is scheduled for August in Geneva.
While some members emphasized the need to ensure that any legally binding treaties are consistent with WTO rules, others expressed support for the ongoing negotiations on plastic pollution and the mutual supportiveness between multilateral environmental agreements and the WTO.
Follow-up to thematic sessions
The Chair of the CTE, Ambassador Erwin Bollinger of Switzerland, reported to the Committee on the outcomes of his recent consultations with members regarding the path forward further to thematic sessions on three key topics: trade-related climate measures (TRCMs), technology transfer and sustainable agriculture. Launched in November 2023 at the request of members, the thematic session series serves as a platform to deepen understanding of specific issues through concrete case studies and the sharing of practical experiences.
The Chair noted that members appreciated the fruitful exchanges in recent thematic sessions and expressed willingness to engage constructively in further discussions. On TRCMs, the exploration in greater depth of three sub-topics – transparency, development and coherence/interoperability – was seen as the right way forward. On the topic of technology transfer, members showed strong interest in continuing discussions to support developing members’ green transition. Regarding sustainable agriculture, members were in favour of organizing a thematic session in October, and Barbados and the United Kingdom were appointed as moderators to help shape the agenda.
Members thanked the Chair for his report and exchanged views on the next steps. Many members underscored the need for further technical work, focused on the three sub-topics identified by the Chair, to better understand the impact of TRCMs. The new joint proposal by Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia and the United Kingdom was cited as a valuable contribution to advancing work on improving interoperability and transparency.
Members reaffirmed their interest in deepening discussions on technology transfer and proposed various formats for experience-sharing. Broad support was voiced for the upcoming thematic session on sustainable agriculture, with a focus on environmental aspects. Members also highlighted the importance of ensuring that thematic discussions complement rather than duplicate work underway in other WTO committees.
Transparency and information-sharing
At the CTE meeting, members were briefed on developments regarding the Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade (DPP), the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD), and the Fossil Fuels Subsidy Reform (FFSR).
The WTO Secretariat presented the 2023 report of the WTO Environmental Database, issued on 8 May 2025, with a thematic focus on pollution. It also briefed members on recent and upcoming WTO technical assistance activities tailored to the requests of members, including the 2024 Advanced Thematic Course on Trade and Environment and an initiative by the WTO, World Bank Group and the World Economic Forum titled “Action on Climate and Trade” (ACT). ACT is part of the WTO technical assistance offering, and is designed to support developing economies and LDCs in leveraging trade policy to support their climate change mitigation and adaptation objectives, while also identifying opportunities for green trade-led growth.
The Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) provided an update on preparations for the 2025 Climate Change Conference (COP30), scheduled for November 2025 in Brazil. Brazil, which holds the COP30 Presidency, highlighted the COP30 Action Agenda, noting the inclusion of climate and trade as one of its key objectives. The WTO Secretariat briefed members, noting its collaboration with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to monitor COP30 developments, explore potential support for Brazil’s priorities in the context of the COP30 Presidency, and provide updates to members as they become available.
Next meeting
The next meeting of the Committee on Trade and Environment is scheduled for the week of 3 November 2025.
Headline: Trade and gender group outlines priorities for gender equality work leading to MC14
The 2025-2026 Work Plan reinforces the work initiated at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13), held in Abu Dhabi in 2024. An action plan to support its implementation will be drafted in consultation with members, with clear milestones, targets and activities.
The Work Plan features a detailed compendium mapping all the technical work of the Informal Working Group (IWG) on Trade and Gender, as well as a ministerial joint statement by the co-chairs. It also includes ministerial-level deliverables, such as the potential inclusion of a paragraph on women’s economic empowerment through trade in the MC14 outcome document.
WTO Symposium on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment
Members also took stock of the WTO Symposium on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment, “Growing economies through trade – empowering women”, which was held on 2 July in cooperation with the IWG co-chairs (Cabo Verde, El Salvador and the United Kingdom).
The event brought together policymakers, researchers and international organizations to explore how trade policy can drive women’s economic empowerment. In her opening address, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala underlined that empowering women in trade is not only a moral imperative, but an economic necessity, and she called for a modernized multilateral system that better serves women and developing economies. Discussions throughout the day underscored the need to treat gender equality as a core element of trade policy.
Key themes of the symposium included the opportunities and challenges of digitalization, the role of regional trade agreements and the importance of gender-disaggregated data. Brazil, Chile, New Zealand, the United Kingdom shared national experiences, while institutional initiatives from the International Trade Centre (ITC), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the World Bank highlighted efforts to make trade more inclusive.
Ambassador Simon Manley of the United Kingdom noted that the experts and researchers who spoke at the symposium encouraged members to ensure that gender is genuinely addressed – not only within the IWG, but also across WTO committees and negotiations more broadly. Looking ahead to MC14, he observed that many members are calling for a renewed commitment to embed gender equality into the multilateral trading system.
International Prize for Gender Equality in Trade
The IWG co-chairs reported on the second edition of the International Prize for Gender Equality in Trade, which recognises impactful national initiatives that promote gender equality through trade-related policies and programmes. Announced on 2 July during an award ceremony held as part of the WTO Symposium on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment, the winners of the 2025 edition were Brazil for “Elas Exportam”, the Dominican Republic for “Service Revolution” and Ghana for the “Inclusive Trade Facilitation Project”, with special mentions for Ecuador for the “Safe Company Seal” and Viet Nam for an initiative implemented under the WTO Chairs Programme at Foreign Trade University (WCP–FTU), titled “From Knowledge to Impact: Amplifying Women’s Influence in Trade through WCP-FTU”.
Updates by WTO members
The United Kingdom shared findings from a Scottish Government-commissioned report on the gender export gap. The study revealed that only 15 per cent of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) led by women in Scotland were engaged in export, fewer than Scottish SMEs led by men (17 per cent). Closing this gap could boost Scotland’s trade revenues by up to GBP 10.4 billion (CHF 11.3 billion) over two years. The research identified key barriers for women, including limited access to finance, lack of mentoring and networks, and a complex support landscape.
Costa Rica also updated members, in its role as the 2025-2026 Chair of the Inclusive Trade Action Group (ITAG) – established on the margins of the 2018 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders Summit – and of ITAG standalone initiative the Global Trade and Gender Arrangement (GTAGA). The ITAG, which was launched in 2018, promotes inclusive trade with a focus on gender equality, support for SMEs, indigenous trade, sustainability and labour issues. The GTAGA advances women’s economic empowerment through joint actions such as data-sharing, policy dialogue and capacity-building.
Key activities included a virtual meeting to adopt priorities, as well as the recent launch of a Trade and Gender Review of Latin America by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Virtual events for government officials will be organized in 2025 and 2026. Costa Rica also outlined plans to standardize accession procedures, and it announced that there will be a GTAGA Day 2026, an in-person capacity-building event.
Ukraine presented its national strategy to advance women’s economic empowerment and integrate gender equality into trade and recovery policies. Measures include targeted support for women-led businesses through mentorship, access to finance, professional training and psychological assistance, as well as programmes to encourage women’s participation in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Ukraine reported that women established 56 per cent of new businesses in 2023, rising to 59 per cent in 2024.
Presentations by international organizations
The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) outlined its efforts to promote gender-responsive standards, with a focus on practical tools such as its Gender Action Plan Model Blueprint. This initiative supports institutions in embedding gender considerations into standards, regulations and artificial intelligence (AI) governance. UNECE also emphasized the role of inclusive standards in addressing gender bias in data and design, particularly in emerging technologies like AI.
The International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA), a global network of women engaged in all segments of the coffee value chain, presented its work to address gender inequalities in the sector. Representing over 36 national groups and 18,000 members – including farmers, processors, exporters, baristas and entrepreneurs – IWCA outlined the persistent challenges that women face, such as unequal labour distribution, limited income and land ownership, and underrepresentation in leadership. It also presented its 2023-2027 strategic plan, structured around four pillars: organizational development, research and advocacy, impactful programmes and high-impact communications.
Today the Council of the European Union formally approved the accession of Bulgaria to the euro area on 1 January 2026 and determined a Bulgarian lev conversion rate of 1.95583 per euro. This is the current central rate of the lev in the Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM II), which the currency joined on 10 July 2020. The European Central Bank (ECB) and Българска народна банка (Bulgarian National Bank) agreed to monitor developments in the Bulgarian lev against the euro on the foreign exchange market until 1 January 2026.
With the entry into force of the close cooperation framework between the ECB and Българска народна банка (Bulgarian National Bank), the ECB has been responsible for directly supervising four significant institutions and overseeing 13 less significant institutions in Bulgaria since 1 October 2020.
For media queries, please contactBenoit Deeg, tel.: +49 172 1683 704.
Notes
The agreement to monitor the lev is in the context of ERM II. Participation in ERM II and observance of the normal fluctuation margins for at least the last two years is one of the convergence criteria to be fulfilled ahead of euro area accession.
The conversion rate of the lev is set by way of an amendment to Regulation (EC) No 2866/98, which will become effective on 1 January 2026.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
CHANGSHA, July 8 (Xinhua) — China, which is among the countries with the largest lithium reserves in the world, has discovered a super-large lithium ore deposit with reserves of 490 million tons in central China’s Hunan Province, the provincial department of natural resources said Tuesday.
The deposit, discovered in the Jijiaoshan mining area of Linwu County, was classified as an altered granite lithium deposit containing about 1.31 million tons of lithium oxide, according to the department.
It also contains other mineral elements such as rubidium, tungsten and tin.
According to the Hunan Provincial Mineralogical Survey Institute, which carried out the exploration, given the complex geological conditions, the discovery of the deposit was made possible by advances in exploration technology and many years of exploration work.
Xu Yiming, a professor at the institute, said the discovery of the lithium deposit provides a solid resource foundation for the construction of a new energy base in Chenzhou City, Hunan Province.
Lithium is an extremely important element with a wide range of applications, including in electric vehicles, energy storage systems and mobile communication systems.
According to the Geological Survey Office of the Ministry of Natural Resources of China, released in January, the share of confirmed lithium reserves in China reached 16.5 percent of the world’s total, which put the country in second place in the world in this indicator. –0–
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.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
RIO DE JANEIRO, July 8 (Xinhua) — China is willing to deepen communication and cooperation with the United Nations to jointly promote the building of a fairer and more reasonable international order, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Tuesday.
Li Qiang made the statement during a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting.
As the Premier of the State Council pointed out, in the 80 years since its founding, the UN has made important contributions to maintaining world peace and tranquility and promoting common development.
Noting that today’s world is facing increasing instability and uncertainty, Li Qiang stressed that the UN should play a more effective role.
According to him, the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping are largely consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and reflect China’s firm commitment and pragmatic approach to supporting multilateralism and the cause of the UN.
The more complex the international situation becomes, the more important it is to uphold the authority of the UN, the head of the Chinese government continued, adding that China firmly supports the central role of the world organization in global governance and is willing to work with all parties to implement genuine multilateralism and more effectively advance the cause of the UN.
Today, when global security is facing serious challenges, China is making significant efforts to promote dialogue for political resolution of hot spot issues and will continue to support the unique role of the UN in reducing tensions, Li Qiang stressed.
He also noted that all parties should prioritize development on the international agenda, jointly strengthen global cooperation for development, direct resources primarily to key areas such as poverty reduction, education, employment and capacity building, and promote global partnership for development.
Li Qiang assured that China, as a responsible major developing country, will continue to steadily expand opening-up, share its opportunities with the world and promote common development.
China supports the UN’s role as a key channel for addressing governance gaps in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, cyberspace, polar regions and outer space, the premier added. -0-
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.
Protests against the PIP and UC bill in Rachel Reeves’s constituency
UK: AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL AND DISABLED PEOPLE BACK UN CONCERNS OVER PIP AND UC BILL
Amnesty International and The Disabled Persons Organisations Forum England (DPOFE) and have called for the PIP and UC bill to be scrapped after the UN wrote to the UK Government raising concerns over its impact on disabled people
The letter highlights concerns that the remaining cuts to universal credit could lead to increased poverty despite previous UN condemnation of grave and systemic rights violations.
“Disabled People’s Organisations faced such hostility from our government that we reached out for help to the UN. They have now answered our call” Rick Burgess Co-Chair of The Disabled Persons Organisations Forum England (DPOFE)
“It should shame the Government that the UN has felt the need to intervene over their brutal cuts to Universal Credit” – Amnesty International’s Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Lead Jen Clark
Disabled Persons Organisations Forum England and Amnesty International have called on the Government to scrap the PIP and UC bill, following a letter by the UN raising concerns over the impact of the bill. The UN letter highlight a lack of consultation with disabled people, inadequate impact assessments, and regressive policy changes that risk deepening poverty and rights violations, particularly for those with complex needs, amongst other concerns.
The UN have called for a response to their letter by the 11th of August.
Commenting on the UN’s letter, Rick Burgess, co-founder of Co-Chair of the DPOFE and Amnesty International UK Disabled People’s Human Rights Network said: “Disabled People’s Organisations faced such hostility from our government that we reached out for help to the UN. They have now answered our call and it is clear that Keir Starmer risks further destroying disabled people’s human rights if his government carries on with its Bills and does not change ableist assumptions about us. It is utterly shameful we have to yet again appeal for international help to defend us against our own government.”
Commenting on the proposed cuts to Universal Credit, Amnesty International’s Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Lead, Jen Clark said:
“It should shame the Government that the UN has felt the need to intervene over these rushed, shambolic brutal cuts to Universal Credit and wider social security reform. These cuts will leave young disabled people or those with illnesses that vary day to day, such as mental health conditions and multiple sclerosis, at high risk of being pushed into poverty and unable to access their basic rights to food, housing and the care they need. Following the pause on the cuts to PIP, the bill should now be fully scrapped. It is unforgivable that the Government is choosing to balance the books by impoverishing some of the most vulnerable people in our society, instead of asking the very wealthiest to pay more.”
Protests against the PIP and UC bill in Rachel Reeves’s constituency
UK: AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL AND DISABLED PEOPLE BACK UN CONCERNS OVER PIP AND UC BILL
Amnesty International and The Disabled Persons Organisations Forum England (DPOFE) and have called for the PIP and UC bill to be scrapped after the UN wrote to the UK Government raising concerns over its impact on disabled people
The letter highlights concerns that the remaining cuts to universal credit could lead to increased poverty despite previous UN condemnation of grave and systemic rights violations.
“Disabled People’s Organisations faced such hostility from our government that we reached out for help to the UN. They have now answered our call” Rick Burgess Co-Chair of The Disabled Persons Organisations Forum England (DPOFE)
“It should shame the Government that the UN has felt the need to intervene over their brutal cuts to Universal Credit” – Amnesty International’s Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Lead Jen Clark
Disabled Persons Organisations Forum England and Amnesty International have called on the Government to scrap the PIP and UC bill, following a letter by the UN raising concerns over the impact of the bill. The UN letter highlight a lack of consultation with disabled people, inadequate impact assessments, and regressive policy changes that risk deepening poverty and rights violations, particularly for those with complex needs, amongst other concerns.
The UN have called for a response to their letter by the 11th of August.
Commenting on the UN’s letter, Rick Burgess, co-founder of Co-Chair of the DPOFE and Amnesty International UK Disabled People’s Human Rights Network said: “Disabled People’s Organisations faced such hostility from our government that we reached out for help to the UN. They have now answered our call and it is clear that Keir Starmer risks further destroying disabled people’s human rights if his government carries on with its Bills and does not change ableist assumptions about us. It is utterly shameful we have to yet again appeal for international help to defend us against our own government.”
Commenting on the proposed cuts to Universal Credit, Amnesty International’s Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Lead, Jen Clark said:
“It should shame the Government that the UN has felt the need to intervene over these rushed, shambolic brutal cuts to Universal Credit and wider social security reform. These cuts will leave young disabled people or those with illnesses that vary day to day, such as mental health conditions and multiple sclerosis, at high risk of being pushed into poverty and unable to access their basic rights to food, housing and the care they need. Following the pause on the cuts to PIP, the bill should now be fully scrapped. It is unforgivable that the Government is choosing to balance the books by impoverishing some of the most vulnerable people in our society, instead of asking the very wealthiest to pay more.”
Women who search for their loved ones among the more than 128,000 disappeared and missing persons in Mexico additionally face a growing number of impacts and violence which have so far claimed the lives of at least 16 of these women, Amnesty International has claimed today in its report Disappearing again. The report includes statements from 600 women searchers from 30 Mexican states and countries such as El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras who generously shared their experiences through a survey, as well as in focus groups and interviews.
“Women searchers carry out an incredibly important role in defending human rights in an exceptionally hostile environment. Despite the serious instances of violence and impacts they face, they support other families living through their same situation. They have promoted legislation, public policies and the creation of institutions specializing in the search for disappeared persons. The authorities must guarantee the right of families to search for their loved ones and take action to end the constant violations of human rights they experience while doing so,” said Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International.
The authorities must guarantee the right of families to search for their loved ones and take action to end the constant violations of human rights they experience while doing so.
Ana Piquer, directora regional para las Américas de Amnistía Internacional.
The report Disappearing again: Violence and impacts experienced by women searchers in Mexico is complemented by the campaign #SearchingWithoutFear (#BuscarSinMiedo) which calls for specific actions from the authorities to protect women searchers in the Americas.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Almaty, July 8 /Xinhua/ — 95 percent of Kazakhstan’s exports to the United States will not be affected by new American duties, the press service of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of Kazakhstan reported on Tuesday.
On Monday, an official announcement was received from US President Donald Trump about the introduction of new customs duties on a number of countries, including Kazakhstan, starting from August 1, 2025.
For products exported from Kazakhstan to the United States, a single rate of 25 percent has been established for the entire volume of deliveries.
“At the same time, the majority of Kazakhstan’s exports will continue to be supplied without new duties due to the exemption from the new tariff. This applies to the main raw materials and strategic goods – oil, uranium, silver, ferroalloys, tantalum and titanium. According to estimates, the measures taken will not affect about 95 percent of Kazakhstan’s exports to the United States,” the ministry reported.
It is noted that as part of the work to maintain a predictable trade regime for Kazakh goods, the government of Kazakhstan has sent the US administration specific proposals and initiatives to improve the conditions of mutual trade. Kazakhstan’s goal is to achieve agreed decisions on issues of market access and trade conditions.
“The American side is currently considering Kazakhstan’s proposals and will inform about the date of the negotiations. Kazakhstan is preparing for further negotiations with the American side to protect national interests and develop sustainable trade and economic partnership,” the ministry added. –0–
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