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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities in every state care for congressional papers that document US political history − federal cuts put their work at risk

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Katherine Gregory, Assistant Professor, University Libraries, Mississippi State University

    The papers of members of Congress are fertile ground for research into Congress’ role in shaping U.S. history. cunfek, iStock/Getty Images Plus

    In 1971, the president of Mississippi State University, Dr. William L. Giles, invited President Richard Nixon to attend the dedication of U.S. Sen. John C. Stennis’ papers to the university library’s archives.

    Nixon declined, but the Republican president sent a generous note in support of the veteran Democrat Stennis.

    “Future students and scholars who study there will … familiarize themselves with the outstanding record of a U.S. Senator whose … judgment in complex areas of national security have been a source of strength and comfort to those who have led this Nation and to all who are concerned in preserving the freedom we cherish.”

    Nixon’s prediction came true, perhaps ironically, considering the legal troubles over his own papers during the Watergate crisis. Congress passed the Presidential Records Act of 1978 after Nixon resigned.

    Stennis’ gift to his alma mater caused a windfall of subsequent congressional donations to what is now the Mississippi Political Collections at Mississippi State University Libraries.

    Now, 55 years later, Mississippi State University holds a body of records from a bipartisan group of officials that has positioned it to tell a major part of the state’s story in national and global politics. That story is told to over 100 patrons and dozens of college and K-12 classes each year.

    The papers are fertile ground for scholarly research into Congress’ role in shaping U.S. history, with its extraordinary powers over lawmaking, the economy and one of the world’s largest militaries.

    Mississippi State University, where I work as an assistant professor and director of the Mississippi Political Collections, is not alone in providing such a rich source of history. It is part of a national network of universities that hold and steward congressional papers.

    But support for this stewardship is in jeopardy. With the White House’s proposed elimination of independent granting agencies such as the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, it is unclear what money will be available for this work in the future.

    A 1963 letter from Sen. John Stennis to a constituent about agricultural legislation and also Russians in Cuba.
    Mississippi State University

    From research to public service

    Mississippi State University’s building of an expansive political archive is neither unique nor a break from practices by our national peers:

    • The Richard Russell Library for Political Research and Studies at the University of Georgia – named after the U.S. senator from Georgia from 1933 to 1971 – has grown since its founding in 1974 into one of America’s premier research libraries of political history, with more than 600 manuscript collections and an extensive oral history collection.

    • Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin donated his papers to Drake University to form The Harkin Institute, which memorializes Harkin’s role as chief sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act through disability policy research and education.

    • Sens. Robert and Elizabeth Dole’s papers are the bedrock of the Dole Institute of Politics at Kansas University.

    • In 2023, retiring Sens. Richard Shelby and Patrick Leahy donated their archives – Shelby to the University of Alabama and Leahy to the University of Vermont.

    By lending their papers and relative political celebrity, members of Congress have laid the groundwork for repositories like these to promote policy research to enable local and state governments to shape legislation on issues central to their states.

    More complete history

    When the repositories are at universities, they also provide educational programming that encourages public service for the next generations.

    At Mississippi State University, the John C. Stennis Institute for Government and Community Development sponsors an organization that allows students to learn about government, voting, organizing and potential careers on Capitol Hill with trips to Washington, D.C.

    Depositing congressional papers in states and districts, to be cared for by professional archivists and librarians, extends the life of the records and expands their utility.

    When elected officials give their papers to their constituents, they ensure the public can see and use the papers. This is a way of returning their history to them, while giving them the power to assemble a more complete, independent version of their political history. While members of Congress are not required by law to donate their papers, they passed a bipartisan concurrent resolution in 2008 encouraging the practice.

    Users of congressional archives range from historians to college students, local investigative journalists, political memoirists and documentary filmmakers. In advance of the 2020 election, we contributed historical materials to CNN’s reporting on Joe Biden’s controversial relationship with the Southern bloc of segregationist senators in his early Senate years.

    A copy of a letter from U.S. Rep. Carl Albert of Oklahoma, who ultimately became the 46th speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.
    Carl Albert Center Congressional and Political Collections, University of Oklahoma

    Preserving the archives

    While the results contribute to the humanities, the process of archival preservation and management is as complex a science as any other.

    “Congressional records” is a broad term that encompasses many formats such as letters, diaries, notes, meeting minutes, speech transcripts, guestbooks and schedules.

    They also include ephemera such as campaign bumper stickers, military medals and even ceremonial pieces of the original U.S. Capitol flooring. They contain rare photographs of everything from natural disaster damage to state dinners and legacy audiovisual materials such as 8 mm film, cassette tapes and vinyl records. Members of Congress also have donated their libraries of hundreds of books.

    Archival preservation is a constantly evolving science. Only in the mid-20th century was the acid-free box developed to arrest the deterioration of paper records. After the advent of film-based photographs, archivists later learned to keep them away from light and heat, and they observed that audiovisual materials such as 8mm tape decompose from acid decay quickly if not stored in proper conditions.

    Alongside preservation work comes the task of inventorying the records for public use. Archivists write finding aids – itemized, searchable catalogs of the records – and create metadata, which describes items in terms of size, creation date and location.

    Future congressional papers will include born-digital content such as email and social media. This means traditional archiving will give way to digital preservation and data management. Federal law mandates that digital records have alt-text and transcription, and they need specialized expertise in file storage and data security because congressional papers often contain case files with sensitive personal data.

    With congressional materials often clocking in at hundreds or thousands of linear feet, emerging artificial intelligence and automation technologies will usher this field into a new era, with AI speeding metadata and cataloging work to deliver usable records for researchers faster than ever.

    No more funding?

    All of this work takes money; most of it takes staff time. Institutions meet these needs through federal grants – the very grants at risk from the Trump administration’s proposed elimination of the agencies that administer them.

    For example, West Virginia University has been awarded over $400,000 since 2021 from the National Endowment for the Humanities for the American Congress Digital Archives Portal project, a website that centralizes digitized congressional records at the university and a growing list of partners such as the University of Hawaii and the University of Oklahoma.

    Past federal grants have funded other congressional papers projects, from basic supply needs such as folders to more complex repair of film and tape.

    The Howard Baker Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee used National Endowment for the Humanities funds to purchase specialized supplies needed to store the papers of its namesake, the Republican senator who also served as chief of staff to President Ronald Reagan.

    National Endowment for the Humanities funds helped process U.S. Rep. Pat Williams’ papers at the University of Montana, resulting in a searchable finding aid for the 87 boxes of records documenting the Montana Democrat’s 18 years in Congress.
    President Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “I have an unshaken conviction that democracy can never be undermined if we maintain our library resources and a national intelligence capable of utilizing them.”

    With the current threat to federal grants – and agencies – that pay for the crucial work of stewarding these congressional papers, it appears that these records of democracy may no longer play their role in supporting that democracy.

    Katherine Gregory received funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities and is a member of the Society of American Archivists.

    – ref. Universities in every state care for congressional papers that document US political history − federal cuts put their work at risk – https://theconversation.com/universities-in-every-state-care-for-congressional-papers-that-document-us-political-history-federal-cuts-put-their-work-at-risk-256053

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities in every state care for congressional papers that document US political history − federal cuts put their work at risk

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Katherine Gregory, Assistant Professor, University Libraries, Mississippi State University

    The papers of members of Congress are fertile ground for research into Congress’ role in shaping U.S. history. cunfek, iStock/Getty Images Plus

    In 1971, the president of Mississippi State University, Dr. William L. Giles, invited President Richard Nixon to attend the dedication of U.S. Sen. John C. Stennis’ papers to the university library’s archives.

    Nixon declined, but the Republican president sent a generous note in support of the veteran Democrat Stennis.

    “Future students and scholars who study there will … familiarize themselves with the outstanding record of a U.S. Senator whose … judgment in complex areas of national security have been a source of strength and comfort to those who have led this Nation and to all who are concerned in preserving the freedom we cherish.”

    Nixon’s prediction came true, perhaps ironically, considering the legal troubles over his own papers during the Watergate crisis. Congress passed the Presidential Records Act of 1978 after Nixon resigned.

    Stennis’ gift to his alma mater caused a windfall of subsequent congressional donations to what is now the Mississippi Political Collections at Mississippi State University Libraries.

    Now, 55 years later, Mississippi State University holds a body of records from a bipartisan group of officials that has positioned it to tell a major part of the state’s story in national and global politics. That story is told to over 100 patrons and dozens of college and K-12 classes each year.

    The papers are fertile ground for scholarly research into Congress’ role in shaping U.S. history, with its extraordinary powers over lawmaking, the economy and one of the world’s largest militaries.

    Mississippi State University, where I work as an assistant professor and director of the Mississippi Political Collections, is not alone in providing such a rich source of history. It is part of a national network of universities that hold and steward congressional papers.

    But support for this stewardship is in jeopardy. With the White House’s proposed elimination of independent granting agencies such as the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, it is unclear what money will be available for this work in the future.

    A 1963 letter from Sen. John Stennis to a constituent about agricultural legislation and also Russians in Cuba.
    Mississippi State University

    From research to public service

    Mississippi State University’s building of an expansive political archive is neither unique nor a break from practices by our national peers:

    • The Richard Russell Library for Political Research and Studies at the University of Georgia – named after the U.S. senator from Georgia from 1933 to 1971 – has grown since its founding in 1974 into one of America’s premier research libraries of political history, with more than 600 manuscript collections and an extensive oral history collection.

    • Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin donated his papers to Drake University to form The Harkin Institute, which memorializes Harkin’s role as chief sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act through disability policy research and education.

    • Sens. Robert and Elizabeth Dole’s papers are the bedrock of the Dole Institute of Politics at Kansas University.

    • In 2023, retiring Sens. Richard Shelby and Patrick Leahy donated their archives – Shelby to the University of Alabama and Leahy to the University of Vermont.

    By lending their papers and relative political celebrity, members of Congress have laid the groundwork for repositories like these to promote policy research to enable local and state governments to shape legislation on issues central to their states.

    More complete history

    When the repositories are at universities, they also provide educational programming that encourages public service for the next generations.

    At Mississippi State University, the John C. Stennis Institute for Government and Community Development sponsors an organization that allows students to learn about government, voting, organizing and potential careers on Capitol Hill with trips to Washington, D.C.

    Depositing congressional papers in states and districts, to be cared for by professional archivists and librarians, extends the life of the records and expands their utility.

    When elected officials give their papers to their constituents, they ensure the public can see and use the papers. This is a way of returning their history to them, while giving them the power to assemble a more complete, independent version of their political history. While members of Congress are not required by law to donate their papers, they passed a bipartisan concurrent resolution in 2008 encouraging the practice.

    Users of congressional archives range from historians to college students, local investigative journalists, political memoirists and documentary filmmakers. In advance of the 2020 election, we contributed historical materials to CNN’s reporting on Joe Biden’s controversial relationship with the Southern bloc of segregationist senators in his early Senate years.

    A copy of a letter from U.S. Rep. Carl Albert of Oklahoma, who ultimately became the 46th speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.
    Carl Albert Center Congressional and Political Collections, University of Oklahoma

    Preserving the archives

    While the results contribute to the humanities, the process of archival preservation and management is as complex a science as any other.

    “Congressional records” is a broad term that encompasses many formats such as letters, diaries, notes, meeting minutes, speech transcripts, guestbooks and schedules.

    They also include ephemera such as campaign bumper stickers, military medals and even ceremonial pieces of the original U.S. Capitol flooring. They contain rare photographs of everything from natural disaster damage to state dinners and legacy audiovisual materials such as 8 mm film, cassette tapes and vinyl records. Members of Congress also have donated their libraries of hundreds of books.

    Archival preservation is a constantly evolving science. Only in the mid-20th century was the acid-free box developed to arrest the deterioration of paper records. After the advent of film-based photographs, archivists later learned to keep them away from light and heat, and they observed that audiovisual materials such as 8mm tape decompose from acid decay quickly if not stored in proper conditions.

    Alongside preservation work comes the task of inventorying the records for public use. Archivists write finding aids – itemized, searchable catalogs of the records – and create metadata, which describes items in terms of size, creation date and location.

    Future congressional papers will include born-digital content such as email and social media. This means traditional archiving will give way to digital preservation and data management. Federal law mandates that digital records have alt-text and transcription, and they need specialized expertise in file storage and data security because congressional papers often contain case files with sensitive personal data.

    With congressional materials often clocking in at hundreds or thousands of linear feet, emerging artificial intelligence and automation technologies will usher this field into a new era, with AI speeding metadata and cataloging work to deliver usable records for researchers faster than ever.

    No more funding?

    All of this work takes money; most of it takes staff time. Institutions meet these needs through federal grants – the very grants at risk from the Trump administration’s proposed elimination of the agencies that administer them.

    For example, West Virginia University has been awarded over $400,000 since 2021 from the National Endowment for the Humanities for the American Congress Digital Archives Portal project, a website that centralizes digitized congressional records at the university and a growing list of partners such as the University of Hawaii and the University of Oklahoma.

    Past federal grants have funded other congressional papers projects, from basic supply needs such as folders to more complex repair of film and tape.

    The Howard Baker Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee used National Endowment for the Humanities funds to purchase specialized supplies needed to store the papers of its namesake, the Republican senator who also served as chief of staff to President Ronald Reagan.

    National Endowment for the Humanities funds helped process U.S. Rep. Pat Williams’ papers at the University of Montana, resulting in a searchable finding aid for the 87 boxes of records documenting the Montana Democrat’s 18 years in Congress.
    President Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “I have an unshaken conviction that democracy can never be undermined if we maintain our library resources and a national intelligence capable of utilizing them.”

    With the current threat to federal grants – and agencies – that pay for the crucial work of stewarding these congressional papers, it appears that these records of democracy may no longer play their role in supporting that democracy.

    Katherine Gregory received funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities and is a member of the Society of American Archivists.

    – ref. Universities in every state care for congressional papers that document US political history − federal cuts put their work at risk – https://theconversation.com/universities-in-every-state-care-for-congressional-papers-that-document-us-political-history-federal-cuts-put-their-work-at-risk-256053

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUAA COI report highlights challenging transition in post-Assad Syria

    Source: European Asylum Support Office

    The EUAA has just published a Country of Origin Information (COI) report on Syria. The report provides an update on the situation in Syria following the ouster of Bashar Al-Assad, with a focus on developments between March and May 2025. It examines the security and socio-economic situation in the country and reviews the latest political and human rights developments, including the treatment of specific population groups.

    Following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad’s government, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader was appointed Syria’s interim President. He signed a constitutional declaration covering a five-year transitional period until a permanent constitution and elections are established. The declaration introduced a strong presidential system and designated Islamic jurisprudence as the main source of legislation. In March 2025, a new transitional government was formed, composed of ministers from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, though largely dominated by figures with close ties to HTS.

    Syria’s security landscape remains fragmented, with numerous armed groups operating with varying degrees of autonomy, despite the caretaker authorities’ efforts to integrate all armed groups into the Syrian government’s army. Notably, negotiations were still ongoing regarding the implementation of a March agreement between the caretaker authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) —a Kurdish-led group controlling most of northeastern Syria’s—aimed at integrating the SDF’s civilian and military structures into Syria’s state institutions.

    The security situation remains volatile, with the new authorities struggling to assert full control in certain areas of the country. Incidents of lawlessness, criminality and retaliatory violence are reported to be prevalent in central and western Syria. Large-scale sectarian violence targeting Alawite communities in the coastal areas and Druze communities in southern Syria was reported between March – May 2025. Israel has also continued to launch airstrikes on military facilities and conduct military incursions into southern Syria.

    Between March and May 2025, together with the United States of America, the European Union took steps to aid in the economic recovery of the country by lifting almost all Assad-era sanctions. However, according to United Nations sources, 90 % of the population are living in poverty and 16.5 million require humanitarian assistance. Although returns from abroad, as well as of internally displaced persons, increased following Assad’s removal, key challenges to sustainable returns included worsening economic conditions, unemployment, limited access to basic services and widespread infrastructure destruction.
     

    EU Asylum situation for Syrian nationals

    Syrian asylum applications have been on a downward trend since November 2024, with a sharp drop in December reflecting the changed circumstances following the fall of the Assad regime, but have been relatively stable since March. In May 2025, Syrians lodged just under 3 100 applications. Between December 2024 and May 2025 Syrian applications (31 000) decreased by over three fifths compared to the previous six months. The main EU+ receiving countries were Germany, Greece and Austria.

    Since December 2024 most EU+ countries have suspended (fully or partially) decision making on Syrian cases, which led to a notable drop in first instance decisions: from a monthly average of 12 000 over the preceding six months to 4 200 in December, falling further in January. Since then, the numbers have fluctuated, averaging around 2 600 between March and May 2025. As a result, the number of pending first instance cases were high, standing at 111 000 at the end of May.

    Background

    The EUAA regularly updates its Country of Origin Information reports, which aim to provide accurate and reliable up-to-date information on third countries to support EU+ asylum and migration authorities in reaching accurate and fair decisions in asylum procedures, as well as to support national policymaking.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUAA COI report highlights challenging transition in post-Assad Syria

    Source: European Asylum Support Office

    The EUAA has just published a Country of Origin Information (COI) report on Syria. The report provides an update on the situation in Syria following the ouster of Bashar Al-Assad, with a focus on developments between March and May 2025. It examines the security and socio-economic situation in the country and reviews the latest political and human rights developments, including the treatment of specific population groups.

    Following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad’s government, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader was appointed Syria’s interim President. He signed a constitutional declaration covering a five-year transitional period until a permanent constitution and elections are established. The declaration introduced a strong presidential system and designated Islamic jurisprudence as the main source of legislation. In March 2025, a new transitional government was formed, composed of ministers from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, though largely dominated by figures with close ties to HTS.

    Syria’s security landscape remains fragmented, with numerous armed groups operating with varying degrees of autonomy, despite the caretaker authorities’ efforts to integrate all armed groups into the Syrian government’s army. Notably, negotiations were still ongoing regarding the implementation of a March agreement between the caretaker authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) —a Kurdish-led group controlling most of northeastern Syria’s—aimed at integrating the SDF’s civilian and military structures into Syria’s state institutions.

    The security situation remains volatile, with the new authorities struggling to assert full control in certain areas of the country. Incidents of lawlessness, criminality and retaliatory violence are reported to be prevalent in central and western Syria. Large-scale sectarian violence targeting Alawite communities in the coastal areas and Druze communities in southern Syria was reported between March – May 2025. Israel has also continued to launch airstrikes on military facilities and conduct military incursions into southern Syria.

    Between March and May 2025, together with the United States of America, the European Union took steps to aid in the economic recovery of the country by lifting almost all Assad-era sanctions. However, according to United Nations sources, 90 % of the population are living in poverty and 16.5 million require humanitarian assistance. Although returns from abroad, as well as of internally displaced persons, increased following Assad’s removal, key challenges to sustainable returns included worsening economic conditions, unemployment, limited access to basic services and widespread infrastructure destruction.
     

    EU Asylum situation for Syrian nationals

    Syrian asylum applications have been on a downward trend since November 2024, with a sharp drop in December reflecting the changed circumstances following the fall of the Assad regime, but have been relatively stable since March. In May 2025, Syrians lodged just under 3 100 applications. Between December 2024 and May 2025 Syrian applications (31 000) decreased by over three fifths compared to the previous six months. The main EU+ receiving countries were Germany, Greece and Austria.

    Since December 2024 most EU+ countries have suspended (fully or partially) decision making on Syrian cases, which led to a notable drop in first instance decisions: from a monthly average of 12 000 over the preceding six months to 4 200 in December, falling further in January. Since then, the numbers have fluctuated, averaging around 2 600 between March and May 2025. As a result, the number of pending first instance cases were high, standing at 111 000 at the end of May.

    Background

    The EUAA regularly updates its Country of Origin Information reports, which aim to provide accurate and reliable up-to-date information on third countries to support EU+ asylum and migration authorities in reaching accurate and fair decisions in asylum procedures, as well as to support national policymaking.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA approves elinzanetant to treat moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes) caused by menopause  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    MHRA approves elinzanetant to treat moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes) caused by menopause  

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today, 8 July, become the first regulator in the world to approve elinzanetant (Lynkuet) for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes) associated with the menopause.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today, 8 July, become the first regulator in the world to approve elinzanetant (Lynkuet) for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes) associated with the menopause. 

    When oestrogen levels drop during menopause, certain brain cells become overactive and interrupt the body’s ability to control temperature, which leads to hot flushes and night sweats.   Elinzanetant is a new non-hormonal medication which works by calming these signals in the brain, helping bring the body’s temperature control back into balance. 

    It may also help improve sleep problems that often come with menopause.   This medicine is administered in tablet form, to be taken orally. 

    Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:  

    “Hot flushes and night sweats associated with menopause can have a significant negative impact on quality of life.  

    “We are therefore pleased to announce our approval of elinzanetant, which has met the MHRA’s standards for safety, quality and effectiveness. 

     “Elinzanetant offers a non-hormonal alternative for those who may not be able to, or prefer not to, take hormone-based therapies. As with all licensed medicines, we will continue to monitor its safety closely as it becomes more widely used.” 

    Elinzanetant’s approval is based on results from the OASIS clinical trials, which involved over 1,400 women aged 40 to 65 across several countries. These studies showed that taking a daily 120 mg tablet of elinzanetant significantly reduced the number and intensity of hot flushes and night sweats over 26 to 52 weeks, compared to a placebo.  

    Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects in some people. A full list of side effects can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) or the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), available on the MHRA website within 7 days of approval.    

    Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine should talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.     

    Notes to editors     

    • The new marketing authorisation was granted on 8 July 2025 to Bayer plc. 

    • This national approval was granted after an Access Consortium new active substance work-sharing initiative (NASWSI) procedure. 

    • More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.   

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.   

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.   

    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Exchange: REPO risk parameters change for the security SIBN.

    Source: Moscow Exchange –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    As per the Securities market risk parameters methodology, on 08.07.2025, 15-14 (MSK) the lower bound of the REPO rate for tenor Y0/Y1Dt (up to -70.12 %), penalty rate and IR Risk Rate (up to -1.141 rub) for the security SIBN were changed. New values are available here

    Please note; this information is raw content received directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with Acting Governor of Sverdlovsk Region Denis Pasler

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Issues of socio-economic development of the region were discussed.

    Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with the acting governor of the Sverdlovsk region Denis Pasler.

    From the transcript:

    M. Mishustin: Dear Denis Vladimirovich!

    This week Yekaterinburg is hosting Innoprom, the leading exhibition of domestic industry. I would like to thank in your person everyone who worked hard and prepared, because this is a very important event for industries and for federal executive bodies. A lot of people, thousands, from all over the country have gathered here.

    I would also like to wish you success in your work in your position. In March, the President appointed you acting. You worked as the Chairman of the Government here in the Sverdlovsk Region for many years before that. You led the Orenburg Region. I want you to succeed. Good luck to you in all your endeavors and endeavors.

    Tell us what the general situation is in the economy today, what is happening with industry.

    D. Pasler: Dear Mikhail Vladimirovich!

    Thank you very much for your constant support of the Innoprom exhibition, for your personal presence. Of course, this is important for all industrialists. When you, Denis Valentinovich (Manturov), the leadership of the Ministry of Industry are at the exhibition, the most pressing issues are resolved. This is very important for us. Thank you very much again.

    Regarding the economic situation. According to the results of five months, the growth of the industrial index is 102%, for shipped products – 108.9%. Investments, despite all the difficulties, sanctions, restrictions, are more than 104.5%. The construction market – we have a 3 million plan. According to the results of the first half of the year, we have fulfilled the plan, about 1.5 million have already been introduced.

    To be continued…

    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 USA: ICE Buffalo investigation leads to arrest of Jamestown man charged with threatening to kill a Homeland Security agent

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — An investigation by ICE Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo has resulted in the July 1 arrest of 43-year-old Matthew White. White, of Jamestown, New York, was charged by criminal complaint with communicating interstate threats for allegedly making social media posts threatening to kill ICE personnel. In one post, he allegedly threatened to target an individual’s children.

    ICE HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan and U.S. Attorney U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, of the Western District of New York, announced the charges.

    “The defendant stands accused of making vile threats against officers and agents who risk their lives every day to uphold an oath they swore to protect the public — even those who wish them harm. There is no place in our community for such hate against any human beings, including and especially innocent children,” said Keegan. “Let it be known, HSI Buffalo is unflinchingly committed to finding and investigating any individuals who threaten, or who are intent on hurting, members of our law enforcement community.”

    According to the investigation and outlined in the complaint:

    On April 30, HSI Buffalo personnel learned that an X account, believed to be operated by White, was engaged in publicly posting threats to federal immigration agents and administrators employed by the Department of Homeland Security.

    On June 4, White voluntarily spoke with investigators and allowed them to extract and copy the contents of his phone. Investigators recovered a number of threatening posts on X, including:

    • On April 18, White posted, “Kill them all, ICE is the new age gestapo, stop them.”
    • On April 29, White shared a video clip of Border Czar Tom Homan posted by an X user “America,” and commented, “Then understand that if your ICE agents don’t show proof of identity and a signed warrant, we will kill them.”
    • In late April, White posted multiple threatening and violent public comments in response to coverage of several ICE arrest operations, including an ICE arrest operation inside a Virginia courthouse that occurred in April 2025. White posted, “I can’t wait to put a bullet into this guy’s brain, but first his children.”

    White made an initial appearance on the afternoon of July 1 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was released on conditions.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo investigation leads to arrest of Jamestown man charged with threatening to kill a Homeland Security agent

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — An investigation by ICE Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo has resulted in the July 1 arrest of 43-year-old Matthew White. White, of Jamestown, New York, was charged by criminal complaint with communicating interstate threats for allegedly making social media posts threatening to kill ICE personnel. In one post, he allegedly threatened to target an individual’s children.

    ICE HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan and U.S. Attorney U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, of the Western District of New York, announced the charges.

    “The defendant stands accused of making vile threats against officers and agents who risk their lives every day to uphold an oath they swore to protect the public — even those who wish them harm. There is no place in our community for such hate against any human beings, including and especially innocent children,” said Keegan. “Let it be known, HSI Buffalo is unflinchingly committed to finding and investigating any individuals who threaten, or who are intent on hurting, members of our law enforcement community.”

    According to the investigation and outlined in the complaint:

    On April 30, HSI Buffalo personnel learned that an X account, believed to be operated by White, was engaged in publicly posting threats to federal immigration agents and administrators employed by the Department of Homeland Security.

    On June 4, White voluntarily spoke with investigators and allowed them to extract and copy the contents of his phone. Investigators recovered a number of threatening posts on X, including:

    • On April 18, White posted, “Kill them all, ICE is the new age gestapo, stop them.”
    • On April 29, White shared a video clip of Border Czar Tom Homan posted by an X user “America,” and commented, “Then understand that if your ICE agents don’t show proof of identity and a signed warrant, we will kill them.”
    • In late April, White posted multiple threatening and violent public comments in response to coverage of several ICE arrest operations, including an ICE arrest operation inside a Virginia courthouse that occurred in April 2025. White posted, “I can’t wait to put a bullet into this guy’s brain, but first his children.”

    White made an initial appearance on the afternoon of July 1 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was released on conditions.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Over €3 billion from EU emissions trading revenues to be invested in cleaner energy systems

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Commission and the European Investment Bank will jointly support 34 energy-related projects in nine EU countries. Funded by revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System, the €3.66 billion investment will help modernise energy systems in the EU to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ICC announces new leadership of Global Marketing and Advertising body

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC announces new leadership of Global Marketing and Advertising body

    Following a robust response to a call for nominations leveraging input from ICC’s global network of national committees, the commission’s new leadership has been confirmed for a three-year mandate, reflecting ICC’s commitment to expertise and effective governance.

    The new leaders are:

    Chair:

    • Alice Himsworth, Senior Counsel, Google (United Kingdom)

    Vice-Chairs:

    • Ludovic Basset, Director General, European Advertising Standards Alliance (Belgium)
    • Jeffrey A. Greenbaum, Managing Partner, Frankfurt Kurnit Klein and Selz PC (United States)
    • Alexander Montgomery, Principal Corporate Counsel, Microsoft (United States)
    • Gabriel Peeradon, Founder and Regional Managing Director, Yell International (Thailand)
    • Victoria N. Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Nestlé (Nigeria)

    Fayola Ferdinand, Director, Global Policy and Sustainability, Coca-Cola (United States) and Karolina Gutiez, Corporate Communications Senior Manager, Schneider Electric (Brazil) also continue in their roles as commission Vice-chairs.

    “This new team brings a wealth of experience across sectors and regions, ensuring that the commission remains at the forefront of shaping responsible marketing practices globally. We are confident that this dynamic leadership will drive ICC’s strategic priorities and further strengthen trust in marketing and advertising standards worldwide.”

    ICC Global Marketing and Advertising Commission Manager Georgiana Degeratu

    Learn more about ICC’s work marketing and advertising or how to get involved.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs of Algeria

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today held a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs of Algeria, Ahmed Attaf, on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They discussed ways to promote ASEAN-Algeria cooperation, following Algeria’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and cooperation in Southeast Asia.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs of Algeria appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: One Day, I Will: Hopes and Dreams of Children in Crisis

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    One Day, I Will is an ongoing series by photographer Vincent Tremeau, capturing children in crisis-affected settings as they dress up as who they want to become in the future. In 2025, one year after a magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck Japan’s Noto Peninsula on New Year’s Day, Vincent brought the project to local schools, inviting children to share their dreams, fears, and hopes in the wake of disaster. These portraits and testimonies are more than dress-up, they reveal resilience, imagination, and the enduring strength of children who continue to dream, despite difficult circumstances. Each of them reminds us: hope can grow even from the most challenging places. “One Day I Will” is one of the exhibits in the UN Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai. The project was made available by OCHA (UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) with support from KUMON, a global after-school math and reading programme.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/sAa-yAeWlLo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement to the 109th Session of the Executive Council of the OPCW

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Statement to the 109th Session of the Executive Council of the OPCW

    Statement by Director of Defence and International Security, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, Mr Stephen Lillie, at the 109th Executive Council of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

    Mr Chair, Director General, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

    The UK welcomes Your Excellency, Ambassador Thomas Schieb as the new Chair of the Executive Council at this critical time. You have our full support.

    Our thanks also to the Director General Fernando Arias for his detailed report.

    Mr Chair,

    Syria has demonstrated its commitment to destroying remaining elements of the Assad regime’s chemical weapons programme; and to holding accountable those responsible. The commitment of the new Syrian Government to achieve this, and it’s support to the Technical Secretariat has been exemplary.

    The UK welcomes the efforts of OPCW staff on the ground and the important progress made during the three recent deployments they have undertaken this year. At last, this Council can look forward to Syria completing the task mandated by the UN Security Council after the horrific sarin attack in 2013, namely the complete destruction of the Assad regime’s chemical weapons programme.

    We must take this opportunity and move at pace to deliver this work in the face of complex practical challenges. Close coordination will be needed between the Technical Secretariat, Syria and supporting States Parties to outline a sensible path and address immediate risks, while ensuring robust OPCW verification.

    Both Syria and the OPCW will each need significant financial and in-kind support to finish the job. On 5 July, whilst in Damascus, my Foreign Secretary announced an additional £2 million of UK support to the OPCW’s Syria missions. This comes in addition to the £837,000 already transferred since December. We urge other states to provide complementary technical, financial and logistical assistance as soon as possible. Concerted international coordination of both financial and in-kind support is essential – we urge the TS and Syria to establish the mechanisms to do this without delay.

    Mr Chair,

    While we take the opportunity to turn the page on a dark period of the widespread use of chemical weapons in Syria this century, we must also redouble our efforts to make sure that all parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention ensure that they do all within their power to uphold the Convention, and to ensure that its central norm against use is re-enforced.

    Today marks the seventh anniversary of the tragic death of Dawn Sturgess. She was killed as a result of Russia’s callous use of the nerve agent novichok in Salisbury.

    While Syria seeks to rid itself of the previous regime’s chemical weapons, Russia continues to use chemical weapons and riot control agents on the battlefield in Ukraine. The statement published last week by the Dutch and German intelligence services in which they warn of the intensifying use of chemicals by Russia on the battlefield is a cause for great concern. This blatant disregard for the Convention is outrageous.

    The British government announced today a second set of sanctions in response to Russia’s use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. The measures designate senior members of Russia’s Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops; and a Russian entity responsible for supplying RG-Vo riot control agent grenades to the Russian military being used against Ukraine.

    The UK has provided a further £400,000 in extra-budgetary funding to the OPCW Assistance to Ukraine Fund. Since 2022, the UK has contributed over one million euros to this fund. Our support for Ukraine is steadfast. To quote Foreign Secretary David Lammy – “today – and every day – we stand with Ukraine”.

    Mr Chair,

    We are deeply concerned by the US determination that chemical weapons have been used in Sudan. We have noted Sudan’s response to Article IX requests submitted by the delegations of Chad, Mauritania, Benin and Guinea Bissau.  We call on Sudan to follow through on its stated commitment to investigate thoroughly.

    Mr Chair,

    You will manage the process by which we will select the next Director General. DG Arias’ successor will have big shoes to fill. They will need to continue his work to shape the Organisation so it is fit to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century:  including consigning chemical weapons to history, ensuring that there is no re-emergence of a chemical threat and advancing work on emerging technologies. Promoting and ensuring a diverse TS staff, with gender equality at its heart, and strengthening capacity building around the world will be essential priorities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major boost for Sizewell C nuclear plan as French energy giant EDF confirms investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Major boost for Sizewell C nuclear plan as French energy giant EDF confirms investment

    Thousands of UK jobs will be created as French energy firm EDF confirms today it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C – in a major boost for UK growth and energy security.

    • French company EDF confirms it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C nuclear plant, supporting thousands of UK jobs and boosting UK’s energy security.
    • Follows £14.5 billion funding confirmed by UK government last month and takes Britain closer to ‘golden age’ of nuclear power.
    • Prime Minister Keir Starmer to welcome French President Emmanuel Macron to Downing Steet tomorrow to make progress on shared priorities and deliver for British people.

    Thousands of UK jobs will be created as French energy firm EDF confirms today it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C – in a major boost for UK growth and energy security.  

    EDF is the first shareholder to announce its backing for the nuclear plant alongside the UK government, who confirmed £14.2 billion of funding into the project in last month’s Spending Review.  

    Today’s announcement takes Sizewell C one step closer to being given the green light, when it will help to deliver the UK’s ‘golden age’ of nuclear and see clean power supplied to millions of homes. 

    Further investors and details on the project’s financing will be confirmed at the point of the Final Investment Decision, targeted for this summer. 

    Nuclear energy is crucial to a mixed power supply – providing a backbone of low-carbon power alongside renewables, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependence on fossil fuel markets.

    At peak construction, Sizewell C will support 10,000 jobs, and thousands more in the nationwide supply chain, and create 1,500 apprenticeships. 

    It comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomes French President Emmanuel Macron to the UK ahead of the UK-France Summit on Thursday, which will drive forward co-operation with one of our closest neighbours on shared priorities – energy, growth, defence and security, and migration.  

    Since taking office last year, the Prime Minister has been determined to bolster the UK’s position on the world stage and improve our relationship with our closest partners in order to deliver for the British people.  

    Today’s announcement marks another vote of confidence in that approach, cementing the UK as an increasingly attractive investment destination and a reliable partner.  

    Previous governments had shied away from making real progress on Sizewell C – leaving the UK exposed when Putin’s illegal invasion into Ukraine created major shocks in the international oil and gas market.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    I’ve been clear there will be no more dithering and delay on Sizewell C – and this investment takes us a step closer to the benefits it will bring to the British people. 

    Lower energy bills, thousands more jobs and apprenticeships, and better energy security – this is not only a vote of confidence in the UK as an investment destination, it is our Plan for Change in action.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    This investment goes hand in hand with the £14.2 billion set aside at last month’s Spending Review to deliver the biggest nuclear building programme in a generation.

    It is part of the new confidence we’re seeing in the UK as an investment destination and will create thousands of high-skilled, high-paid jobs to help deliver on our Plan for Change.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:  

    Thousands of jobs and clean power for millions of homes are one step closer today as we welcome this investment into Sizewell C – delivering a golden age of new nuclear to protect family finances and boost energy security. 

    This agreement is a landmark moment in the UK and France’s long-standing partnership in civil nuclear, and a testament to our countries’ strong relationship.

    In addition, Bpifrance, France’s export credit agency, is set to provide a £5 billion debt guarantee to the power station.  

    This supports lending to the project from a number of leading commercial banks and is enabled by Sizewell C’s innovative funding model that spreads costs between consumers, taxpayers and private investors.  

    The UK Government will remain a significant shareholder in the project – ensuring we have oversight of the progress and limiting delays.  

    The government’s nuclear programme is now the most ambitious for a generation – once small modular reactors and Sizewell C come online in the 2030s, combined with Hinkley Point C, this will deliver more new nuclear power to the grid than over the previous half century combined. 

    In another important step forward for UK–France energy collaboration, UK company Urenco have signed a 15-year deal with EDF to produce fuel for nuclear power stations, helping to deliver clean power and enhanced energy security in Europe.

    This multi-billion euro contract, with significant value for the UK, will support Urenco UK’s workforce of more than 1,400 people and support the company’s important contribution to UK economic growth, which represented more than £256 million in 2023. 

    French engineering company Assystem has also announced plans to double its nuclear workforce in the UK, creating 1,000 new engineering, digital and management jobs by 2030 across 10 UK sites, including in Sunderland, Blackburn, Derby, Bristol and London.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Anxiety, paranoia, fear’: The consequences of digital violence against women

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    During the event, held as part of the Commission on the Status of Women, the world’s biggest gender equality conference, delegates from the region outlined the many forms of digital violence, warned of the chilling effect that online harassment and discrimination are having on women’s participation in political life and shared some of the most effective ways to create safe digital spaces for women.

    After the meeting, UN News caught up with some of the speakers, who included politicians and rights advocates, to hear first-hand about the consequences of digital violence in their countries and how to deal with it.

    ‘We must remain united’

    UN News/Conor Lennon

    Anaís Burgos is a politician in the Mexican parliament. She won a round of applause after proudly holding up a doll representing Claudia Sheinbaum, the first woman president of Mexico.

    “Digital violence affects all women who are dedicated to public affairs, both at work and in our personal relationships. It leaves very important traces, because it affects your mental and physical health, creating anxiety, discrimination, paranoia and fear.

    I can’t publish anything personal on social media, because people will search for anything to attack me, such as my family, my origins or my skin colour. Some of my colleagues have thought about leaving politics altogether, so that they are no longer the targets of attacks and violence.

    However, I believe that we have to continue. I have to make this violence visible; I have to denounce it. And as a politician, I have to change it. If it happens to me, someone with a public voice to denounce it, what does it do to a young girl who doesn’t have such a platform? Or Afro-Mexican women, indigenous women and women living with disabilities?

    We need more legislation to punish this type of violence in all its forms. It has advanced so quickly, and artificial intelligence is not even regulated in some of the countries of our region.

    We must remain united. The rights women have acquired so far would not have been won without a collective voice. And we need men to understand that, for violence to end, we need their participation and support.”

    ‘Pre-bunking’ and ‘inoculating’ against disinformation

    UN News/Conor Lennon

    Roberta Braga is the founder and Executive Director of the Digital Democracy Institute of the Americas (DDIA), a hub for research and initiatives aimed at strengthening trust between communities and democracy.

    “Polarisation and distrust are amplified through social media. There is a silver lining, though. We are now able to identify what we call “meta narratives”, stories that get recycled and used in different contexts in different countries to attack women, which means that we have the information and the tools we need to both prepare and counter them ahead of time.

    We call it “pre-bunking” or “inoculation”, which is essentially explaining to people the tactics of manipulation and the narratives that get used against them online so they can recognise them when they see them and become a little more resilient.

    There is very little space between our online and offline worlds now, and digital violence can definitely become real world violence. It can lead to groups of people sitting outside your home, propagating hatred against you and even attacking you in person.

    I have been very lucky in that I have not been the target of coordinated attacks, but I know a lot of women who have been subjected to abuse. For example, a friend of mine who was about to serve on a US Government board to counter disinformation, received a huge onslaught of online attacks. It was so bad that they cancelled the initiative in its entirety. She was pregnant at the time, and her husband, even her baby, were also targets. It can get very toxic”.

    ‘Time and again, technology is used against women’

    Marcela Hernández is the co-founder of the Latin-American network of Digital Defenders, an organization promoting comprehensive legislation to address and punish digital violence.

    “Currently we have documented more than 700 policies by different government entities throughout Mexico, including police, prosecutors’ offices and courts to counter digital violence. In the Attorney General’s Office of Mexico City, there is even a specialized agency to prosecute crimes of digital violence.

    I remember the first time I knew of a girl who committed suicide because of a video of her being sexually abused was circulated online. Even though I didn’t know her, it marked me. I knew at that moment that more things like this were going to happen.

    When a new technology reaches the mass market, it is used time and time again as a tool to commit violence against women, to subordinate and objectify us. When artificial intelligence became widespread in 2024, there were immediately cases of boys in universities and schools in different parts of the world taking images of their classmates to create sexually explicit material, without their consent.

    This is why we need to appropriate technology ourselves; women creating online tools for the benefit of other women”.

    These interviews have been translated from Spanish and edited for clarity and length.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Aid cuts threaten to roll back progress in ending maternal mortality

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Furthermore, unprecedented aid cuts are putting global progress to end maternal deaths at risk, UN agencies have warned in a new report that calls for greater investment in midwives and other health workers.

    The Trends in maternal mortality report was published by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO) and UN sexual and reproductive health agency UNFPA, in observance of World Health Day on 7 April.

    It shows that maternal deaths declined by 40 per cent between 2000 and 2023, largely due to improved access to essential health services.

    However, the pace of improvement has slowed significantly since 2016, and an estimated 260,000 women died in 2023 due to complications during pregnancy and childbirth, or roughly one death every two minutes.

    Deadly peril in Sudan

    Frontline health workers have long raised alarms about the perils of giving birth in conflict settings.

    In Sudan’s Al Jazirah State, a midwife named Awatef told UNFPA that she helped four women deliver babies while fleeing violence: “I delivered them in the bush, with only very basic sterilization – I had nothing but water and soap.”

    One woman, Amina, had to give birth by Caesarean section – on the floor of a stranger’s home where a local doctor was assisting deliveries – while listening to the drum of gunfire just outside. “I had to start walking again just six hours later, carrying my baby while my wounds were still fresh and painful,” she said.

    Urgent action needed

    As aid funding cuts force countries to roll back vital services for maternal, newborn and child health, the UN agencies appeal for urgent action to prevent maternal deaths, particularly in humanitarian settings where numbers are already alarmingly high.

    “While this report shows glimmers of hope, the data also highlights how dangerous pregnancy still is in much of the world today – despite the fact that solutions exist to prevent and treat the complications that cause the vast majority of maternal deaths,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

    “In addition to ensuring access to quality maternity care, it will be critical to strengthen the underlying health and reproductive rights of women and girls – factors that underpin their prospects of healthy outcomes during pregnancy and beyond.”

    Pregnancy and the pandemic

    The report also provides the first global account of the coronavirus“>COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on maternal survival.

    An estimated 40,000 more women died due to pregnancy or childbirth in 2021, rising to 282,000 in 2022, and to 322,000 the following year.

    This increase was linked not only to direct complications caused by COVID-19 but also widespread interruptions to maternity services, highlighting the importance of ensuring that this care is available during pandemics and other emergencies.

    Invest in midwives

    “When a mother dies in pregnancy or childbirth, her baby’s life is also at risk. Too often, both are lost to causes we know how to prevent,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.

    With global funding cuts putting more mums-to-be at risk, especially in the most fragile settings, “the world must urgently invest in midwives, nurses, and community health workers to ensure every mother and baby has a chance to survive and thrive,” she added.

    Inequalities and slowdowns

    The report also highlights persistent inequalities between regions and countries, as well as uneven progress.

    With maternal mortality declining by around 40 per cent between 2000 and 2023, sub-Saharan Africa achieved significant gains. It was also among just three UN regions to see significant drops after 2015, with the others being Australia and New Zealand, and Central and Southern Asia.

    Yet, sub-Saharan Africa still accounted for approximately 70 per cent of the global burden of maternal deaths in 2023 due to high rates of poverty and multiple conflicts.

    Meanwhile, five regions saw progress stagnate after 2015: Northern Africa and Western Asia, Eastern and South-Eastern Asia, Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand), Europe and North America, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

    UNFPA Sudan

    A midwife visiting pregnant women in a shelter for internally displaced persons in Sudan.

    A global responsibility

    Dr. Natalia Kanem, UNFPA’s Executive Director, upheld that access to quality maternal health services is a right, not a privilege.

    She stressed the urgent responsibility to build well-resourced health systems that safeguard the lives of pregnant women and newborns.

    “By boosting supply chains, the midwifery workforce, and the disaggregated data needed to pinpoint those most at risk, we can and must end the tragedy of preventable maternal deaths and their enormous toll on families and societies,” she said.

    Childbirth in crisis settings

    The report also highlighted the plight of pregnant women living in humanitarian emergencies, who face some of the highest risks globally.  Nearly two-thirds of global maternal deaths now occur in countries affected by fragility or conflict.

    Beyond ensuring critical services during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period, the report emphasized the importance of efforts to enhance women’s overall health by improving access to family planning services, as well as preventing underlying health conditions that increase risks, such as anaemia, malaria and noncommunicable diseases.

    Furthermore, it is also vital to ensure that girls stay in school, and that they and women have the knowledge and resources to protect their health.

    Source: WHO/UNICEF/UNFPA/World Bank/UN Population Division

    Maternal mortality ratio (MMR) trends by region.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Children across China enjoy summer vacations through colorful activities

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

    Children across China enjoy summer vacations through colorful activities

    Updated: July 8, 2025 20:30 Xinhua
    A kid plays with a device for science popularization at a science and technology hall in Shijiazhuang City of north China’s Hebei Province, July 8, 2025. Children across the country are enriching their summer vacations through colorful activities. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Kids make potteries under their teacher’s guidance in Xinghua City, east China’s Jiangsu Province, July 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Kids visit an aquarium in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, July 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Kids learns to play drums in Daoxian County of Yongzhou City, central China’s Hunan Province, July 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A kid has fun with beach-combing in Rizhao, east China’s Shandong Province, July 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Children read books at a bookstore in Zunhua City, north China’s Hebei Province, July 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China willing to share military equipment achievements with friendly countries: defense ministry

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

    China has always taken a prudent, responsible approach to military exports and is willing to share the achievements of its equipment development with friendly countries, a Chinese defense spokesperson said on Tuesday.

    Jiang Bin, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks when commenting on recent reports that several countries are in discussions with China regarding weapon procurement plans that include China’s J-10 fighter jet.

    Jiang also stressed the country’s commitment to playing a constructive role in regional and global peace and stability.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The US has high hopes for a new Gaza ceasefire, but Israel’s long-term aims seem far less peaceful

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University

    US President Donald Trump has hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for dinner at the White House, where he has declared talks to end the war in Gaza are “going along very well”.

    In turn, Netanyahu revealed he has nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, saying:

    he is forging peace as we speak, in one country, in one region, after the other.

    Despite all the talk of peace, negotiations in Qatar between Israeli and Palestinian delegations have broken up without a breakthrough. The talks are expected to resume later this week.

    If an agreement is reached, it will likely be hailed as a crucial opportunity to end nearly two years of humanitarian crisis in Gaza, following the October 7 attacks in which 1,200 Israelis were killed by Hamas-led militants.

    However, there is growing scepticism about the durability of any truce. A previous ceasefire agreement reached in January led to the release of dozens of Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

    But it collapsed by March, when Israel resumed military operations in Gaza.

    This breakdown in trust on both sides, combined with ongoing Israeli military operations and political instability, suggests the new deal may prove to be another temporary pause rather than a lasting resolution.

    Details of the deal

    The proposed agreement outlines a 60-day ceasefire aimed at de-escalating hostilities in Gaza and creating space for negotiations toward a more lasting resolution.

    Hamas would release ten surviving Israeli hostages and return the remains of 18 others. In exchange, Israel is expected to withdraw its military forces to a designated buffer zone along Gaza’s borders with both Israel and Egypt.

    The agreement being thrashed out in Doha includes the release of Israeli hostages, held in Gaza for the past 22 months.
    Anas-Mohammed/Shutterstock

    While the specific terms of a prisoner exchange remain under negotiation, the release of Palestinian detainees held in Israeli prisons is a central component of the proposal.

    Humanitarian aid is also a key focus of the agreement. Relief would be delivered through international organisations, primarily UN agencies and the Palestinian Red Crescent.

    However, the agreement does not specify the future role of the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Fund, which has been distributing food aid since May.

    The urgency of humanitarian access is underscored by the scale of destruction in Gaza. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israel’s military campaign has killed more than 57,000 Palestinians. The offensive has triggered a hunger crisis, displaced much of the population internally, and left vast areas of the territory in ruins.

    Crucially, the agreement does not represent an end to the war, one of Hamas’s core demands. Instead, it commits both sides to continue negotiations throughout the 60-day period, with the hope of reaching a more durable and comprehensive ceasefire.

    Obstacles to a lasting peace

    Despite the apparent opportunity to reach a final ceasefire, especially after Israel has inflicted severe damage on Hamas, Netanyahu’s government appears reluctant to fully end the military campaign.

    There is scepticism a temporary ceasefire would lead to permanent peace.
    Anas-Mohammed/Shutterstock

    A central reason is political: Netanyahu’s ruling coalition heavily relies on far-right parties that insist on continuing the war. Any serious attempt at a ceasefire could lead to the collapse of his government.

    Militarily, Israel has achieved several of its tactical objectives.

    It has significantly weakened Hamas and other Palestinian factions and caused widespread devastation across Gaza. This is alongside the mass arrests, home demolitions, and killing of hundreds of Palestinians in the West Bank.

    And it has forced Hezbollah in Lebanon to scale back its operations after sustaining major losses.

    Perhaps most notably, Israel struck deep into Iran’s military infrastructure, killing dozens of high-ranking commanders and damaging its missile and nuclear capabilities.

    Reshaping the map

    Yet Netanyahu’s ambitions may go beyond tactical victories. There are signs he is aiming for two broader strategic outcomes.

    First, by making Gaza increasingly uninhabitable, his government could push Palestinians to flee. This would effectively pave the way for Israel to annex the territory in the long term – a scenario advocated by many of his far-right allies.

    Speaking at the White House, Netanyahu says he is working with the US on finding countries that will take Palestinians from Gaza:

    if people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave.

    Second, prolonging the war allows Netanyahu to delay his ongoing corruption trial and extend his political survival.

    True intentions

    At the heart of the impasse is the far-right’s vision for total Palestinian defeat, with no concession and no recognition of a future Palestinian state. This ideology has consistently blocked peace efforts for three decades.

    Israeli leaders have repeatedly described any potential Palestinian entity as “less than a state” or a “state-minus”, a formulation that falls short of Palestinian aspirations and international legal standards.

    Today, even that limited vision appears to be off the table, as Israeli policy moves towards complete rejection of Palestinian statehood.

    With Palestinian resistance movements significantly weakened and no immediate threat facing Israel, this moment presents a crucial test of Israel’s intentions.

    Is Israel genuinely pursuing peace, or seeking to cement its dominance in the region while permanently denying Palestinians their right to statehood?

    Following its military successes and the normalisation of relations with several Arab states under the Abraham Accords, Israeli political discourse has grown increasingly bold.

    Some voices in the Israeli establishment are openly advocating for the permanent displacement of Palestinians to neighbouring Arab countries such as Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. This would effectively erase the prospect of a future Palestinian state.

    This suggests that for certain factions within Israel, the end goal is not a negotiated settlement, but a one-sided resolution that reshapes the map and the people of the region on Israel’s terms.

    The coming weeks will reveal whether Israel chooses the path of compromise and coexistence, or continues down a road that forecloses the possibility of lasting peace.

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

    – ref. The US has high hopes for a new Gaza ceasefire, but Israel’s long-term aims seem far less peaceful – https://theconversation.com/the-us-has-high-hopes-for-a-new-gaza-ceasefire-but-israels-long-term-aims-seem-far-less-peaceful-260286

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: President Trump’s tug-of-war with the courts, explained

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Paul M. Collins Jr., Professor of Legal Studies and Political Science, UMass Amherst

    The U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg

    The Supreme Court handed President Donald Trump a big win on June 27, 2025, by limiting the ability of judges to block Trump administration policies across the nation.

    But Trump has not fared nearly as well in the lower courts, where he has lost a series of cases through different levels of the federal court system. On June 5, a single judge temporarily stopped the administration from preventing Harvard University from enrolling international students.

    And a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked Trump on May 28 from imposing tariffs on China and other nations. The Trump administration has appealed this decision. It will be taken up in July by all 11 judges on the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

    After that, the case can be appealed to the Supreme Court.

    I’m a scholar of the federal courts. The reasons why some courts have multiple judges and others have a single judge can be confusing. Here’s a guide to help understand what’s going on in the federal courts.

    Federal District Courts

    The U.S. District Courts are the trial courts in the federal system and hear about 400,000 cases per year. A single judge almost always presides over cases.

    This makes sense for a jury trial, since a judge might make dozens of spur-of-the-moment decisions during the course of a trial, such as ruling on a lawyer’s objection to a question asked of a witness. If a panel of, say, three judges performed this task, it would prolong proceedings because the three judges would have to deliberate over every ruling.

    A more controversial role of District Courts involves setting nationwide injunctions. This happens when a single judge temporarily stops the government from enforcing a policy throughout the nation.

    There have been more than two dozen nationwide injunctions during Trump’s second term. These involve policy areas as diverse as ending birthright citizenship, firing federal employees and banning transgender people from serving in the military.

    President Donald Trump speaks at the White House on June 27, 2025, after the Supreme Court curbed the power of lone federal judges to block executive actions.
    Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

    Trump and Republicans in Congress argue that the ability to issue nationwide injunctions gives too much power to a single judge. Instead, they believe injunctions should apply only to the parties involved in the case.

    On June 27, the Supreme Court agreed with the Trump administration and severely limited the ability of District Court judges to issue nationwide injunctions. This means that judges can generally stop policies from being enforced only against the parties to a lawsuit, instead of everyone in the nation.

    In rare instances, a panel of three District Court judges hears a case. Congress decides what cases these special three-judge panels hear, reserving them for especially important issues. For example, these panels have heard cases involving reapportionment, which is how votes are translated into legislative seats in Congress and state legislatures, and allegations that a voter’s rights have been violated.

    The logic behind having three judges hear such important cases is that they will give more careful consideration to the dispute. This may lend legitimacy to a controversial decision and prevents a single judge from exercising too much power.

    There are also specialized courts that hear cases involving particular policies, sometimes in panels of three judges. For instance, three-judge panels on the U.S. Court of International Trade decide cases involving executive orders related to international trade.

    The federal Court of Appeals

    The U.S. Court of Appeals hears appeals from the District Courts and specialized courts.

    The 13 federal circuit courts that make up the U.S. Court of Appeals are arranged throughout the country and handle about 40,000 cases per year. Each circuit court has six to 29 judges. Cases are decided primarily by three-judge panels.

    Having multiple judges decide cases on the Court of Appeals is seen as worthwhile, since these courts are policymaking institutions. This means they set precedents for the judicial circuit in which they operate, which covers three to nine states.

    Supporters of this system argue that by having multiple judges on appellate courts, the panel will consider a variety of perspectives on the case and collaborate with one another. This can lead to better decision-making. Additionally, having multiple judges check one another can boost public confidence in the judiciary.

    The party that loses a case before a three-judge panel can request that the entire circuit rehear the case. This is known as sitting en banc.

    Because judges on a circuit can decline to hear cases en banc, this procedure is usually reserved for especially significant cases. For instance, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has agreed to an en banc hearing to review the Court of International Trade’s decision to temporarily halt Trump’s sweeping tariff program. It also allowed the tariffs to remain in effect until the appeal plays out, likely in August.

    The exception to having the entire circuit sit together en banc is the 9th Circuit, based in San Francisco, which has 29 judges, far more than other circuit courts. It uses an 11-judge en banc process, since having 29 judges hear cases together would be logistically challenging.

    Cargo ships are seen at a container terminal in the Port of Shanghai, China, in May 2025. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked Trump from imposing tariffs on China and other nations.
    CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images

    The US Supreme Court

    The U.S. Supreme Court sits atop the American legal system and decides about 60 cases per year.

    Cases are decided by all nine justices, unless a justice declines to participate because of a conflict of interest. As with other multimember courts, advocates of the nine-member makeup argue that the quality of decision-making is improved by having many justices participate in a case’s deliberation.

    Each Supreme Court justice is charged with overseeing one or more of the 13 federal circuits. In this role, a single justice reviews emergency appeals from the District Courts and an appellate court within a circuit. This authorizes them to put a temporary hold on the implementation of policies within that circuit or refer the matter to the entire Supreme Court.

    In February, for example, Chief Justice John Roberts blocked a Court of Appeals order that would have compelled the Trump administration to pay nearly US$2 billion in reimbursements for already completed foreign aid work.

    In March, a 5-4 majority of the high court sent the case back to U.S. District Judge Amir Ali, who subsequently ordered the Trump administration to release some of the funds.

    The federal judicial system is complex. The flurry of executive orders from the Trump administration means that cases are being decided on a nearly daily basis by a variety of courts.

    A single judge will decide some of these cases, and others are considered by full courts. Though the nine justices of the Supreme Court technically have the final say, the sheer volume of legal challenges means that America’s District Courts and Court of Appeals will resolve many of the disputes.

    Paul M. Collins Jr. 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.

    – ref. President Trump’s tug-of-war with the courts, explained – https://theconversation.com/president-trumps-tug-of-war-with-the-courts-explained-258234

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Scientific norms shape the behavior of researchers working for the greater good

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeffrey A. Lee, Professor of Geography and the Environment, Texas Tech University

    Mentors model the ethical pursuit of scientific knowledge. sanjeri/E+ via Getty Images

    Over the past 400 years or so, a set of mostly unwritten guidelines has evolved for how science should be properly done. The assumption in the research community is that science advances most effectively when scientists conduct themselves in certain ways.

    The first person to write down these attitudes and behaviors was Robert Merton, in 1942. The founder of the sociology of science laid out what he called the “ethos of science,” a set of “values and norms which is held to be binding on the man of science.” (Yes, it’s sexist wording. Yes, it was the 1940s.) These now are referred to as scientific norms.

    The point of these norms is that scientists should behave in ways that improve the collective advancement of knowledge. If you’re a cynic, you might be rolling your eyes at such a Pollyannaish ideal. But corny expectations keep the world functioning. Think: Be kind, clean up your mess, return the shopping cart to the cart corral.

    I’m a physical geographer who realized long ago that students are taught biology in biology classes and chemistry in chemistry classes, but rarely are they taught about the overarching concepts of science itself. So I wrote a book called “The Scientific Endeavor,” laying out what scientists and other educated people should know about science itself.

    Scientists in training are expected to learn the big picture of science after years of observing their mentors, but that doesn’t always happen. And understanding what drives scientists can help nonscientists better understand research findings. These scientific norms are a big part of the scientific endeavor. Here are Merton’s original four, along with a couple I think are worth adding to the list:

    Universalism

    Scientific knowledge is for everyone – it’s universal – and not the domain of an individual or group. In other words, a scientific claim must be judged on its merits, not the person making it. Characteristics like a scientist’s nationality, gender or favorite sports team should not affect how their work is judged.

    Also, the past record of a scientist shouldn’t influence how you judge whatever claim they’re currently making. For instance, Nobel Prize-winning chemist Linus Pauling was not able to convince most scientists that large doses of vitamin C are medically beneficial; his evidence didn’t sufficiently support his claim.

    In practice, it’s hard to judge contradictory claims fairly when they come from a “big name” in the field versus an unknown researcher without a reputation. It is, however, easy to point out such breaches of universalism when others let scientific fame sway their opinion one way or another about new work.

    When asked about patenting his polio vaccine, Jonas Salk replied, ‘There is no patent. Could you patent the sun?’
    Bettmann via Getty Images

    Communism

    Communism in science is the idea that scientific knowledge is the property of everyone and must be shared.

    Jonas Salk, who led the research that resulted in the polio vaccine, provides a classic example of this scientific norm. He published the work and did not patent the vaccine so that it could be freely produced at low cost.

    When scientific research doesn’t have direct commercial application, communism is easy to practice. When money is involved, however, things get complicated. Many scientists work for corporations, and they might not publish their findings in order to keep them away from competitors. The same goes for military research and cybersecurity, where publishing findings could help the bad guys.

    Disinterestedness

    Disinterestedness refers to the expectation that scientists pursue their work mainly for the advancement of knowledge, not to advance an agenda or get rich. The expectation is that a researcher will share the results of their work, regardless of a finding’s implications for their career or economic bottom line.

    Research on politically hot topics, like vaccine safety, is where it can be tricky to remain disinterested. Imagine a scientist who is strongly pro-vaccine. If their vaccine research results suggest serious danger to children, the scientist is still obligated to share these findings.

    Likewise, if a scientist has invested in a company selling a drug, and the scientist’s research shows that the drug is dangerous, they are morally compelled to publish the work even if that would hurt their income.

    In addition, when publishing research, scientists are required to disclose any conflicts of interest related to the work. This step informs others that they may want to be more skeptical in evaluating the work, in case self-interest won out over disinterest.

    Disinterestedness also applies to journal editors, who are obligated to decide whether to publish research based on the science, not the political or economic implications.

    Organized skepticism

    Merton’s last norm is organized skepticism. Skepticism does not mean rejecting ideas because you don’t like them. To be skeptical in science is to be highly critical and look for weaknesses in a piece of research.

    By the time new research is published in a reputable journal, it’ has made it past several sets of skeptical eyes.
    gorsh13/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    This concept is formalized in the peer review process. When a scientist submits an article to a journal, the editor sends it to two or three scientists familiar with the topic and methods used. They read it carefully and point out any problems they find.

    The editor then uses the reviewer reports to decide whether to accept as is, reject outright or request revisions. If the decision is revise, the author then makes each change or tries to convince the editor that the reviewer is wrong.

    Peer review is not perfect and doesn’t always catch bad research, but in most cases it improves the work, and science benefits. Traditionally, results weren’t made public until after peer review, but that practice has weakened in recent years with the rise of preprints, reducing the reliability of information for nonscientists.

    Integrity and humility

    I’m adding two norms to Merton’s list.

    The first is integrity. It’s so fundamental to good science that it almost seems unnecessary to mention. But I think it’s justified since cheating, stealing and lazy scientists are getting plenty of attention these days.

    The second is humility. You may have made a contribution to our understanding of cell division, but don’t tell us that you cured cancer. You may be a leader in quantum mechanics research, but that doesn’t make you an authority on climate change.

    Scientific norms are guidelines for how scientists are expected to behave. A researcher who violates one of these norms won’t be carted off to jail or fined an exorbitant fee. But when a norm is not followed, scientists must be prepared to justify their reasons, both to themselves and to others.

    Jeffrey A. Lee 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.

    – ref. Scientific norms shape the behavior of researchers working for the greater good – https://theconversation.com/scientific-norms-shape-the-behavior-of-researchers-working-for-the-greater-good-255159

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Your data privacy is slipping away – here’s why, and what you can do about it

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mike Chapple, Teaching Professor of IT, Analytics, and Operations, University of Notre Dame

    Cybersecurity and data privacy are constantly in the news. Governments are passing new cybersecurity laws. Companies are investing in cybersecurity controls such as firewalls, encryption and awareness training at record levels.

    And yet, people are losing ground on data privacy.

    In 2024, the Identity Theft Resource Center reported that companies sent out 1.3 billion notifications to the victims of data breaches. That’s more than triple the notices sent out the year before. It’s clear that despite growing efforts, personal data breaches are not only continuing, but accelerating.

    What can you do about this situation? Many people think of the cybersecurity issue as a technical problem. They’re right: Technical controls are an important part of protecting personal information, but they are not enough.

    As a professor of information technology, analytics and operations at the University of Notre Dame, I study ways to protect personal privacy.

    Solid personal privacy protection is made up of three pillars: accessible technical controls, public awareness of the need for privacy, and public policies that prioritize personal privacy. Each plays a crucial role in protecting personal privacy. A weakness in any one puts the entire system at risk.

    The first line of defense

    Technology is the first line of defense, guarding access to computers that store data and encrypting information as it travels between computers to keep intruders from gaining access. But even the best security tools can fail when misused, misconfigured or ignored.

    Two technical controls are especially important: encryption and multifactor authentication. These are the backbone of digital privacy – and they work best when widely adopted and properly implemented.



    Read more:
    The hidden cost of convenience: How your data pulls in hundreds of billions of dollars for app and social media companies

    Encryption uses complex math to put sensitive data in an unreadable format that can only be unlocked with the right key. For example, your web browser uses HTTPS encryption to protect your information when you visit a secure webpage. This prevents anyone on your network – or any network between you and the website – from eavesdropping on your communications. Today, nearly all web traffic is encrypted in this way.

    But if we’re so good at encrypting data on networks, why are we still suffering all of these data breaches? The reality is that encrypting data in transit is only part of the challenge.

    Securing stored data

    We also need to protect data wherever it’s stored – on phones, laptops and the servers that make up cloud storage. Unfortunately, this is where security often falls short. Encrypting stored data, or data at rest, isn’t as widespread as encrypting data that is moving from one place to another.

    While modern smartphones typically encrypt files by default, the same can’t be said for cloud storage or company databases. Only 10% of organizations report that at least 80% of the information they have stored in the cloud is encrypted, according to a 2024 industry survey. This leaves a huge amount of unencrypted personal information potentially exposed if attackers manage to break in. Without encryption, breaking into a database is like opening an unlocked filing cabinet – everything inside is accessible to the attacker.

    Multifactor authentication is a security measure that requires you to provide more than one form of verification before accessing sensitive information. This type of authentication is more difficult to crack than a password alone because it requires a combination of different types of information. It often combines something you know, such as a password, with something you have, such as a smartphone app that can generate a verification code or with something that’s part of what you are, like a fingerprint. Proper use of multifactor authentication reduces the risk of compromise by 99.22%.

    While 83% of organizations require that their employees use multifactor authentication, according to another industry survey, this still leaves millions of accounts protected by nothing more than a password. As attackers grow more sophisticated and credential theft remains rampant, closing that 17% gap isn’t just a best practice – it’s a necessity.

    Multifactor authentication is one of the simplest, most effective steps organizations can take to prevent data breaches, but it remains underused. Expanding its adoption could dramatically reduce the number of successful attacks each year.

    Awareness gives people the knowledge they need

    Even the best technology falls short when people make mistakes. Human error played a role in 68% of 2024 data breaches, according to a Verizon report. Organizations can mitigate this risk through employee training, data minimization – meaning collecting only the information necessary for a task, then deleting it when it’s no longer needed – and strict access controls.

    Policies, audits and incident response plans can help organizations prepare for a possible data breach so they can stem the damage, see who is responsible and learn from the experience. It’s also important to guard against insider threats and physical intrusion using physical safeguards such as locking down server rooms.

    Public policy holds organizations accountable

    Legal protections help hold organizations accountable in keeping data protected and giving people control over their data. The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation is one of the most comprehensive privacy laws in the world. It mandates strong data protection practices and gives people the right to access, correct and delete their personal data. And the General Data Protection Regulation has teeth: In 2023, Meta was fined €1.2 billion (US$1.4 billion) when Facebook was found in violation.

    Despite years of discussion, the U.S. still has no comprehensive federal privacy law. Several proposals have been introduced in Congress, but none have made it across the finish line. In its place, a mix of state regulations and industry-specific rules – such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act for health data and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act for financial institutions – fill the gaps.

    Some states have passed their own privacy laws, but this patchwork leaves Americans with uneven protections and creates compliance headaches for businesses operating across jurisdictions.

    The tools, policies and knowledge to protect personal data exist – but people’s and institutions’ use of them still falls short. Stronger encryption, more widespread use of multifactor authentication, better training and clearer legal standards could prevent many breaches. It’s clear that these tools work. What’s needed now is the collective will – and a unified federal mandate – to put those protections in place.

    This article is part of a series on data privacy that explores who collects your data, what and how they collect, who sells and buys your data, what they all do with it, and what you can do about it.

    Mike Chapple 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.

    – ref. Your data privacy is slipping away – here’s why, and what you can do about it – https://theconversation.com/your-data-privacy-is-slipping-away-heres-why-and-what-you-can-do-about-it-251768

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: U.S., Thailand Navies reunite to commence CARAT Thailand 2025

    Source: United States Navy

    SATTAHIP, Thailand – The U.S. Navy (USN), Royal Thai Navy (RTN), and Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) began the 31st exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2025 with an opening ceremony in Sattahip, Thailand, July 7, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What “Haute Couture” Really Means in French Law

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    Today’s post is a guest post by a foreign law specialist at the Law Library of Congress, Louis Gilbert. Louis previously wrote “Wait, It Is Not About Wigs?” – The Story of Faso Dan Fani Court Robes in Burkina Faso for In Custodia Legis. 

    We throw around the term “haute couture” a lot these days: on runways, in fashion blogs, and in brand campaigns, but in France, it is not just a fancy way to say “high fashion.” It is a legally protected label with very specific rules, history, and meaning.

    Haute Couture: More Than Just Clothes

    At its core, haute couture is the art of creating luxurious, made-to-measure clothing for a private and very exclusive clientele. But it is more than that, it is also a creative playground where designers push boundaries, take risks, and influence the future of fashion far beyond the small circle of people who actually wear these clothes.

    Even though only a few clients ever purchase couture, its impact is global. The media attention surrounding haute couture shows means that ideas born in couture houses trickle down into ready-to-wear collections and even pop culture.

    A Wartime Origin Story

    The story begins during World War II. With fabric shortages affecting the entire country, the French government needed a way to support the couture industry. Until the outbreak of the second World War, haute couture professionals operated independently. With the onset of the war and resulting shortages in the textile industry, Parisian couture unions requested an official designation from the government granting haute couture houses privileged access to the raw materials needed for production.

    So, in 1945, the government officially stepped in. First, the Comité Général d’Organisation de l’Habillement et du Travail des Étoffes (the General Committee for the Organization of Clothing and Fabric Work) under the authority of the Ministry of Industry, issued a decision on January 23, 1945, distinguishing “couture” companies from mass-market producers. Then, on April 6, 1945, a ministerial order laid out the exact legally enforceable criteria a fashion house had to meet to qualify as haute couture. Those rules are still the foundation of the system today.

    Since then, only a select group of fashion houses, approved each year by a special commission under the Ministry of Industry, can legally use the title. The process is overseen by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, which sets the standards and reviews applications. They can even conduct audits and investigations before granting the prestigious status.

    Christian Dior – Couturier de Rêve. Exhibition at the Musée des Arts Decoratifs, Paris, 2017. Photo by Flickr user Claudia Schillinger. Used under Creative Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.

    What Really Makes a Brand “Haute Couture”

    So what exactly makes a house “haute couture”? According to the order of April 6, 1945, to earn and keep the title, a fashion house must:

    • design and create custom garments made to a client’s exact measurements, entirely in-house, with multiple fittings,
    • present two collections a year in Paris, one in January for spring-summer, and one in July for autumn-winter, each featuring at least 25 original looks,
    • produce only original work, no buying designs from outside sources, and
    • be approved by a special commission under the Ministry of Industry, overseen by the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne (now part of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode).

    Once a house is approved, it gets added to an official list updated annually. And only those on that list can legally call themselves haute couture. The presentations showing off the spring-summer and autumn-winter collections are elaborate productions, comparable to theatrical performances, and are central to the identity and visibility of haute couture.

    Prestige Over Perks

    Back in the 1940s, being on the haute couture list came with real perks: easier access to materials, more pricing freedom, and prestige. As postwar shortages faded in the early 1950s, the practical advantages disappeared. What remained, and still holds incredible power, is the status. Haute couture became less about economic benefit and more about cultural prestige. It was, and still is, a mark of excellence, craftsmanship, and artistry.

    Historically, couture houses have also used high-profile figures for promotional purposes. In the 1930s, for example, Chanel dressed the Countess de Montgomery, while Lanvin dressed the Countess Jean de Polignac, both free of charge.

    CHANEL – 215 [1938]. Black lace strapless dress with faille ribbon outlining the décolletage and ruffle of the same lace above it. 1938. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. https://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3b46035.

    The Shrinking World of Couture

    While the prestige has held steady, the number of official haute couture houses has dropped sharply. There were 106 accredited houses in 1946. By 1967, that number was down to 19. As of 2020, only 16 remained.

    That decline mirrors a shrinking client base. In 1943, it was estimated that 20,000 people regularly bought haute couture. By 1990, that number had fallen to just 200. Why? The rise of luxury ready-to-wear collections gave clients more options and fewer reasons to wait weeks or months for one-of-a-kind garments.

    Still, haute couture is not going anywhere. It remains the pinnacle of fashion, a world where imagination, skill, and tradition come together in pieces that are as much art as clothing.

    A 2020 decision by the Ministry of the Economy, which was extended until July 31, 2025, by another decision, designates the following 16 houses that hold the haute couture label:

    • Adeline André,
    • Alexandre Vauthier,
    • Alexis Mabille,
    • Bouchra Jarrar,
    • Chanel,
    • Christian Dior,
    • Franck Sorbier,
    • Giambattista Valli,
    • Givenchy,
    • Jean Paul Gaultier,
    • Julien Fournié,
    • Maison Margiela,
    • Miason Rabih Kayrouz,
    • Maurizio Galante,
    • Schiaparelli, and
    • Stéphane Rolland.

    For more on clothing and fabric rationing in the 1940s, see this

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Disaster Relief Still Available to Michigan Residents, Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations, homeowners and renters in Michigan of the Aug. 8 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset losses from physical damage caused by affected by the severe winter storms occurring March 28-30, 2025.

    The disaster declaration covers the Michigan counties of Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Otsego and Presque Isle.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms, based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Aug. 8, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 9, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New NIST Method Precisely Measures Radioactivity in Tiny Samples

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Close-up of a superconducting sensor board containing multiple transition edge sensors (top row of squares), which detect energy released by individual radioactive decay events.

    Credit: M. Carlson/NIST

    Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have demonstrated a new and faster method for detecting and measuring the radioactivity of minuscule amounts of radioactive material. The innovative technique, known as cryogenic decay energy spectrometry (DES), could have far-reaching impacts, from improving cancer treatments to ensuring the safety of nuclear waste cleanup.

    The NIST team has published its results in Metrologia.

    The key to this novel technique is a transition-edge sensor (TES), a high-tech device widely used to measure radiation signatures. TES provides a revolutionary capability to record individual radioactive decay events, in which an unstable atom releases one or more particles. By building up data from many individual decays, researchers can then identify which unstable atoms, known as radionuclides, produce the events.

    “The TES is much more advanced than a familiar Geiger counter or other detectors used today,” said NIST physicist Ryan Fitzgerald. “Instead of just clicking to indicate radiation, or giving a blurry indication of the decay energy, it gives us a detailed fingerprint of what’s there.”

    The TES device operates at extremely low temperatures, near absolute zero. When a radioactive decay occurs in a sample, the energy released is absorbed by the TES. This absorbed energy causes a tiny change in the electrical resistance of the TES. The researchers precisely measure this change in resistance, which provides a high-resolution “energy signature” of the decay event. By analyzing the detailed energy spectrum from multiple events, the researchers can identify the specific radioactive atom undergoing decay. This is possible because different radioactive atoms release unique energy signatures when they decay.

    Earlier methods are good at either measuring the amount of radioactivity or identifying which radioactive atoms are present — not both. Fully characterizing a sample once required the use of multiple techniques. In contrast, DES both identifies radioactive elements and quantifies their level of radioactivity.

    Rapid Detection and Measurement

    When researchers encounter a barrel full of radioactive fluid, they need to identify the mystery substance and measure the amount of radionuclides present to dispose of it safely. Ordinarily, that process could take months, but the transition-edge sensor can significantly cut that time.

    “Instead of waiting months for results, we can now get a full radioactivity profile in just a few days from a tiny sample,” said Fitzgerald.

    NIST researcher Ryan Fitzgerald places a ball of indium on a transition-edge sensor (TES) chip in preparation for using the TES to detect the energy released by radioactive decay events in a radioactive source.

    Credit: NIST

    Traditionally, measuring radioactivity required multiple methods and intricate procedures using additional materials called tracers or calibrants. However, the new method offers a streamlined approach, allowing accurate measurement of even tiny samples without needing these extra materials. This allows scientists to better monitor, use and safeguard radioactive materials that affect public health and safety.

    Inkjet Precision in Radioactivity Analysis

    In their method, the researchers use a specialized inkjet device to carefully dispense tiny amounts, less than 1 millionth of a gram, of a radioactive solution onto thin gold foils. These gold foils have a surface dotted with tiny pores just billionths of a meter in size. These nanopores help to absorb the tiny droplets of the radioactive solution.

    By precisely measuring the mass of the solution that was dispensed using the inkjet and then measuring the radioactivity of the dried sample on the gold foils, the researchers can calculate the radioactivity per unit mass, or the “massic activity,” of the sample. This inkjet method allows them to work with extremely small amounts of radioactive material and still get an accurate measurement of its radioactivity.

    The potential applications are vast. In medicine, this technology could help ensure the purity and potency of radioactive drugs used in cancer treatments.  For nuclear energy, it could quickly identify radioactive composition of reprocessed fuel, speeding development of new advanced reactors.

    TrueBq: Redefining Radioactivity Measurement

    The newly reported research is the first step in a larger effort, known as the True Becquerel (TrueBq) project, to transform how we monitor and characterize radioactivity. The project’s name is derived from the unit for measuring radioactive decay, honoring the French physicist Henri Becquerel, who discovered radioactivity.

    The broader TrueBq project aims to develop a more comprehensive measurement system that can handle a wide range of radioactive substances, including complex mixtures. It will integrate a precision mass balance system with the TES device to measure the massic activity of radioactive materials with unprecedented accuracy. 

    This new approach represents a significant improvement over traditional workflows, which often involve multiple methods, chemical processing, and the use of chemical tracers and standards. By streamlining the measurement process, TrueBq is expected to reduce the time required for analysis while simultaneously increasing accuracy.

    The innovations developed through the TrueBq project could enhance NIST’s ability to serve its customers effectively. NIST offers a variety of customer-focused measurement services, including calibrations, standard reference materials (SRMs) and proficiency testing. All of these services stand to benefit from the streamlined workflow, additional information and reduced uncertainties that the TrueBq technology could potentially deliver.

    While TrueBq’s current focus is on improving measurements at NIST itself, researchers have long-term aspirations for the technology. In the future, they hope to develop more portable and user-friendly versions of the system that could be deployed outside of NIST for critical applications in fields such as medicine, environmental cleanup and nuclear waste management.

    Paper: Ryan P. Fitzgerald, Bradley Alpert, Denis E. Bergeron, Max Carlson, Richard Essex, Sean Jollota, Kelsey Morgan, Shin Muramoto, Svetlana Nour, Galen O’Neil, Daniel R. Schmidt, Gordon Shaw, Daniel Swetz and R. Michael Verkouteren. Primary activity measurement of an Am-241 solution using microgram inkjet gravimetry and decay energy spectrometry. Metrologia. Published online July 8, 2025. DOI: 10.1088/1681-7575/adecaa

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa: Cities deepen fiscal reform efforts to support development goals

    Source: APO – Report:

    Urban areas across Africa are growing at a remarkable pace, but many city governments are being asked to deliver more with limited fiscal space and constrained access to capital.

    Despite these pressures, some city administrators say they are “seeing real progress,” as explained by James Muchiri, Deputy Governor of Nairobi City County: “In the last financial year alone, Nairobi’s local revenue rose by one billion shillings, and the year before, by nearly the same amount.”

    This view is shared by Chilando Chitangala, Mayor of Lusaka, who noted that the city has long struggled with revenue leakages but is now learning how to build stronger systems – “how to collect more effectively and manage what we collect with greater accountability.”

    The two city leaders were speaking at the close of a high-level side event co-organized by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), UN-Habitat, and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) on the margins of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Seville.

    The session focused on how African cities can mobilize domestic resources and strengthen financial systems to support the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063.

    Both Nairobi and Lusaka are among six African cities participating in the DA-15 project, a joint initiative led by ECA in partnership with UN-Habitat and UNCDF. The project supports city administrations in evaluating their financial performance, identifying reform priorities, and building the tools needed to strengthen public finance at the local level. Other participating cities include Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam, Kigali, and Yaoundé.

    The first phase of the project involved in-depth financial assessments across the six cities. The findings revealed significant gaps in revenue collection, expenditure management, and investment planning, but also surfaced promising areas for reform.

    “By using ECA’s methodology, we got a report that was independent of our own systems,” said Mr Muchiri. “That helped surface issues we hadn’t seen before, and gave us something concrete to act on.”

    To support implementation, ECA has also developed the Fiscal Space Performance and Monitoring Dashboard, a digital tool that enables city officials to track real-time indicators such as liquidity, solvency, and revenue collection efficiency.

    The dashboard is designed to strengthen transparency and support evidence-based decision-making at the local level.

    “The dashboard enhances transparency, strengthens accountability, and supports smarter financial decisions,” said Hana Morsy, Deputy Executive Secretary of ECA. “It’s a practical tool city can use to stay on top of their fiscal health.”

    While digital tools and financial diagnostics are central to the DA-15 approach, both Nairobi and Lusaka emphasized the importance of local capacity and political will.

    “We now have the skills and structure to move forward,” said Ms Chitangala. “And we hope this knowledge can benefit other cities across Zambia as well.”

    “Ultimately,” added Mr Muchiri, “we want to reduce our dependency on central government transfers. That means we have to build strong, reliable systems that let us collect and manage our own revenue with confidence.”

    Ms Morsy called on national governments, development partners, and the private sector to invest not just in infrastructure, but in the financial systems and institutions that make local governance work.

    “What if we stopped viewing cities as beneficiaries,” she said, “and started empowering them as leaders?”

    Atkeyelsh Persson, Chief of Urbanization and Development at ECA, stressed the importance of ensuring that capacity gains are shared more widely.

    “It’s encouraging to see the impact being felt on the ground,” said Ms Persson. “The capacity built through this work shouldn’t stop with just Nairobi or Lusaka. It has the potential to scale across other cities in Kenya, Zambia, and beyond.”

    – on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Women in Bani Walid: “Our voices are not heard”

    Source: APO – Report:

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    To hear women’s voices in the political process, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General for Political Affairs (DSRSG-P), Stephanie Koury, held a dedicated meeting with women community leaders in Bani Walid last Saturday.  

    Participants underscored that presidential elections are essential to resolving the political impasse and called for the dissolution of all armed groups, asserting that unified security forces in the western region are crucial for enabling credible elections. 

    “As women in Bani Walid, we suffer from marginalization; our voices are not heard,” said one participant. They noted the absence of women’s empowerment offices at all levels, including within the municipality where the person responsible for social affairs is a man. The Social Affairs officer is responsible for overseeing all aspects of family compensation and addressing issues related to women and children.  

    DSRSG-P Koury took note of the concerns raised by women during the meeting. She also discussed the importance of meaningful engagement of all Libyan women in the political process. 

    Ms. Koury briefed participants on the four options put forward by the Advisory Committee in May to move the political process forward. As outlined in the  Executive Summary of the Advisory Committee’s report,  the options include:  

    1. Conducting presidential and legislative elections simultaneously;  
    2. Conducting parliamentary elections first, followed by the adoption of a permanent constitution;  
    3. Adopting a permanent constitution before elections; or  
    4. Establishing a political dialogue committee, based on the Libyan Political Agreement to finalize electoral laws, executive authority and permanent constitution.  

    Participants shared local initiatives to promote women’s empowerment, emphasizing the need for representation, inclusion, and meaningful participation of women across Libya. They also expressed a strong demand for the unification of state institutions.  

    Additionally, participants raised pressing socioeconomic issues, especially in the education and health sectors, noting the ongoing toll on women and children. “We want to end the injustice of war for the next generation,” said one woman. 

    Throughout the public consultations in Bani Walid, participants expressed deep frustration over the absence of national reconciliation and human rights violations.  

    While acknowledging that customs and tribal structures continue to shape local governance, participants stressed the need for greater public awareness around elections and civic responsibility.  

    “The social and security situation is deteriorating,” said one participant. “While we value preserving our traditions and norms, but this must go hand in hand with empowering women in public life and allow them to assume leadership roles.”

    – on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Malawi’s Mining Minister to Speak at African Mining Week (AMW) as Global Investor Interest in Country Surges

    Source: APO – Report:

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    Malawi’s Minister of Mining, Ken Zikhale Reeves Ng’oma, has confirmed his participation as a speaker at the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025, Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders. Minister Ng’oma will feature in the Ministerial Forum, showcasing policy frameworks and investment incentives aimed at accelerating mineral exploration, production and beneficiation in Malawi and across the continent.

    Malawi – under the leadership of Minister Ng’oma – is attracting attention from major investors targeting its rare earths, uranium, titanium, graphite and downstream value chains. In June, Minister Ng’oma signed a $7 billion deal with China’s Hunan Sunwalk, marking the largest-ever foreign investment in the country’s mining sector. The deal covers the development of titanium extraction and processing facilities in Salima, alongside major commitments to skills development, technology transfer and community investment. The country also secured $5 billion at China’s Xidian International Stock Exchange to develop a Special Economic Zone in Chipoka. Up to $1 billion worth of mining, infrastructure and agri-industrial projects will be deployed within the first year as part of the deal. The China-Africa Cooperation on Critical Minerals Roundtable at AMW provides an ideal platform for Minister Ng’oma to forge new investment partnerships with Chinese investors.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    In addition to Chinese investors, major financial institutions across the globe are also supporting cornerstone projects. Malawi’s Ecobank has proposed a $30 million loan, the European Investment Bank a $40 million facility and Gerald Group a $50 million loan to fund the Kangankunde Rare Earths Project. Operated by Australia’s Lindian Resources, the project will be one of the world’s largest rare earths production facilities once operational in 2026.

    In the uranium sector, Lotus Resources secured $38.5 million from South African banks First Capital Bank and Standard Bank to advance the Kayelekera Uranium Project, with first production scheduled for Q3 2025. Additionally, Sovereign Metals raised $40 million in March to support the Kasiya Rutile-Graphite Project, home to the world’s largest known rutile deposit and second-largest graphite reserve. With projected annual outputs of 245,000 tons of rutile and 288,000 tons of graphite over 25 years, the project will position Malawi as a major player in global critical minerals supply.

    Amid this surge in investment, Malawi’s mining sector has the potential to generate up to $30 billion in mineral exports between 2026 and 2040. Against this backdrop, AMW 2025 provides a timely platform for Minister Ng’oma to engage global investors, spotlight Malawi’s growing mining sector and drive new partnerships. Held under the theme From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth, AMW will feature high-level panel discussions and strategic project showcases amplifying Malawi’s role in the continent’s mining future.

    – on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –