NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: A land at risk, a willingness to change: Guatemala strengthens its path to resilience

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    In the heart of Central America, where volcanoes carve the skyline and rivers wind through dense forests, Guatemala’s stunning geography is also a source of vulnerability. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tropical storms, floods, and droughts are part of everyday life—constant reminders of the urgency to strengthen the country’s resilience.

    Against this backdrop, the recent visit of Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction and Head of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), marked a pivotal moment. Joined by Claudinne Ogaldes, Executive Secretary of the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), and Miguel Barreto, UN Resident Coordinator in Guatemala, the mission went beyond reaffirming existing commitments—it generated new partnerships and concrete proposals to advance disaster risk reduction nationwide.

    One of the key political moments of the visit came during a meeting with Vice President Karin Herrera, who expressed the government’s commitment to strengthening SE-CONRED’s role within the state. She proposed including the institution in Guatemala’s main economic and social decision-making bodies, acknowledging that risk reduction must be a whole-of-government responsibility. “Investing in prevention means protecting the future of the most vulnerable populations,” said the Vice President.

    There was also a renewed call to reform CONRED’s legal and policy framework, broadening its mandate, improving inter-institutional coordination, and increasing budget allocations for both prospective and corrective risk management. While Hurricane Mitch in 1998 marked a turning point for Guatemala—leading to the establishment of structures such as CONRED and a stronger emphasis on prevention—the current scale and complexity of risk demand a deeper transformation. Only a bold, sustained shift will ensure sustainable development anchored in resilience and informed by risk.

    “We have made progress in disaster risk reduction in Guatemala. We have strengthened the staff of CONRED’s Executive Secretariat, not only in the capital, but throughout the country, with more teams to support municipalities in risk management. But we still need to stop building risk. We need to be a more resilient country, one that complies with the standards and does not perpetuate its vulnerability,” said Claudinne Ogaldes, Executive Secretary of CONRED.

    The mission coincided with the XXI Meeting of the National Platform for Dialogue, which served as a forum to define the foundations of Guatemala’s position for the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in 2025. During the meeting, participants emphasized the need to strengthen multi-hazard early warning systems, integrate risk into national and sectoral planning, and foster participatory and inclusive governance rooted in resilience.

    Throughout the week, several concrete commitments were secured. The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) expressed its intention to move forward with the adoption of the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), a key tool for standardizing warnings and improving hazard response. Representatives from the telecommunications sector also voiced their readiness to explore the implementation of Cell Broadcasting systems, in coordination with UN agencies and inspired by good practices across the region.

    At the regional level, the mission included high-level meetings at the Coordination Centre for Disaster Prevention in Central America and the Dominican Republic (CEPREDENAC) and with the Executive Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of Finance of Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic (COSEFIN). These exchanges helped pave the way for stronger risk-informed public financing and a future dialogue with finance ministers on integrating disaster risk into national budgets, public investment, and fiscal policy. The goal is clear: move beyond reactive and corrective approaches and instead channel resources into forward-looking, preventive measures that build long-term resilience.

    The Guatemalan private sector also demonstrated strong engagement. A pilot initiative was presented, developed with a national bank and the ARISE Network, aimed at promoting risk-informed decision-making in small and medium-sized enterprises. The Sustainable Finance Advisory Council of CentraRSE expressed its commitment to embedding disaster risk reduction within the country’s financial architecture, including banking and insurance systems.

    Throughout the mission, the leadership of local and community actors was palpable. A visit to the Ingenio Magdalena sugar mill underscored the value of public-private-community alliances for prevention and preparedness. The mission also recognized the critical roles played by youth, women, Indigenous peoples, and local governments in building resilience from the ground up.

    In this national effort, the United Nations System has served as a strategic partner and catalyst. The mission reaffirmed the leadership of Resident Coordinator Miguel Barreto in promoting effective, results-driven cooperation. It also confirmed that resilience will be a strategic priority within the next UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) in Guatemala.

    “Guatemala is demonstrating that it is possible to anticipate risk, plan ahead and protect what is most valuable: lives, livelihoods and communities. To achieve this, it is essential to direct public and private investment towards resilient infrastructure, accompanied by adequate financing. Only then will we stop building risk and start building resilience,” said Kamal Kishore.

    “We have identified areas of convergence and cross-cutting issues where agencies can work together. For example, incorporating early warning and prevention into all operational activities of the system,” added Miguel Barreto, UN Resident Coordinator.

    The results of the mission highlight the value of strategic, targeted cooperation. Through UNDRR’s technical support—working closely with SE-CONRED and the broader UN system—Guatemala is forging a more coordinated, inclusive approach to disaster risk reduction. Far from being an isolated initiative, this is a collective effort to ensure that risk reduction becomes a shared responsibility, embedded across sectors and driven by political will, technical excellence, and local leadership.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McGovern Demanding Answers from Departments of State and Homeland Security on Revoked Student Visas

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA)

    WORCESTER, MA – Congressman James P. McGovern (MA-02) on Friday sent a strongly-worded letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem demanding answers after the visas of dozens of international students at colleges and universities in Massachusetts’s Second Congressional District were revoked without notice, explanation, or due process.

    “I write to you with deep alarm and growing outrage over reports that the visas of dozens of international students at colleges and universities in Massachusetts’s Second Congressional District have been revoked—seemingly without notice, cause, or due process,” McGovern wrote in the letter.

    The letter highlights that at least three universities in the district—the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Clark University, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute—have reported checking the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) only to discover that some student visas had been revoked. This includes the visas of at least 14 students at UMass Amherst, 12 students at Clark University, and 4 students at WPI.

    “These actions appear to be politically motivated and constitutionally suspect, raising serious concerns about the weaponization of our immigration system to intimidate and harass students, teachers, and institutions of higher education based on their political views,” McGovern wrote.

    McGovern also emphasized that revoking the visas without warning or due process would have a serious long-term chilling effect on our ability as a nation to attract the best and brightest researchers and experts from around the world, noting that “[t]hese students contribute $413.5 million to my district’s economy alone. International students are integral to colleges and universities in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and across the United States.”

    In his letter, McGovern posed several questions to the Departments of State and Homeland Security, seeking clarity on the reasons for the visa revocations, the lack of notice provided to institutions, and the legal authority under which these actions were taken. He requested a response by Friday, April 18, 2025.

    “It is unconstitutional, unconscionable, and unprecedented that the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security appear to be targeting and punishing students based on their political beliefs or national origin,” McGovern concluded.

    The full text of the letter is available here: https://mcgovern.house.gov/uploadedfiles/student_visas_final_letter.pdf

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE meets with guest speakers of World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit held in Hong Kong for first time (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CE meets with guest speakers of World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit held in Hong Kong for first time  
    This morning, Mr Lee, accompanied by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, met with Mr Wang. Mr Lee noted that the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress was successfully convened in Beijing last month. A Government work report proposed to develop new quality productive forces in light of local conditions and pursue integrated advancements in technological and industrial innovation. The HKSAR Government is actively developing new quality productive forces and new industrialisation initiatives, with the innovation and technology industry expected to achieve high-quality development. It is also accelerating the development of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, striving to develop Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology centre. Hong Kong will continue to leverage its advantages in connecting the Mainland with the world, further deepening international exchanges and co-operation, and exploring new opportunities in innovation and technology.
     
    In the afternoon, Mr Lee, accompanied by the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Ms Lillian Cheong, met with Mr Zhuang. Mr Lee expressed his gratitude to the CAC for its continued support to the HKSAR Government and its collaboration with the ITIB in promoting cross-border data flows within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Noting that data is a key driving force of innovation and high-quality development, Mr Lee said that the HKSAR Government will continue to maintain close communication and co-operation with the CAC to facilitate Hong Kong’s active integration into the national data development and the digital economy development in the GBA.
     
    The WIC Asia-Pacific Summit is being held today and tomorrow (April 15) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme of “Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future – Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace”. The summit brings together representatives from governments and enterprises, international organisations, leading corporations, experts and scholars from home and abroad to engage in in-depth exchanges on various technological areas, promoting the high-quality development of innovation and technology.
    Issued at HKT 18:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Increasing biodiversity financing in the next EU international cooperation budget – E-001406/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001406/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    César Luena (S&D), Michal Wiezik (Renew), Pär Holmgren (Verts/ALE), Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Catarina Vieira (Verts/ALE), Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (Renew), Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE)

    The EU must not abandon its global leadership in tackling current interconnected global challenges, including biodiversity loss, climate change, environmental degradation, health risks and insecurity. Biodiversity loss, particularly in vulnerable regions, fuels conflict, displacement and migration pressures, which in turn undermine stability. In the upcoming multiannual financial framework, the EU must fulfil its commitments under the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and increase its investment in nature because of the essential role it plays in supporting communities and economies and in tackling climate change.

    • 1.Can the Commission confirm its commitment to increasing biodiversity financing in the next international cooperation budget (NDICI-GE), ensuring that the EU meets its international obligations and drives the transformational change needed?
    • 2.How does the Commission plan to mainstream biodiversity in climate finance and enhance investment in nature and biodiversity within the Global Gateway initiative?
    • 3.What measures will the Commission take to ensure that funding under the next NDICI-GE reaches key stakeholders in on-site conservation efforts, including civil society organisations?

    Submitted: 7.4.2025

    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Taxation of big digital tech companies – E-001409/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001409/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bruno Gonçalves (S&D), Aurore Lalucq (S&D), Carla Tavares (S&D), Jonás Fernández (S&D), Matthias Ecke (S&D), Lara Wolters (S&D), David Cormand (Verts/ALE), Kim Van Sparrentak (Verts/ALE), André Rodrigues (S&D), Elisabeth Grossmann (S&D), Rasmus Andresen (Verts/ALE), Sandra Gómez López (S&D), Vivien Costanzo (S&D), Sérgio Gonçalves (S&D), Bruno Tobback (S&D), Arash Saeidi (The Left), Francisco Assis (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Marta Temido (S&D), Manon Aubry (The Left), Stéphanie Yon-Courtin (Renew), Elio Di Rupo (S&D), Pasquale Tridico (The Left), Catarina Vieira (Verts/ALE), Virginijus Sinkevičius (Verts/ALE), Ana Catarina Mendes (S&D), Alex Agius Saliba (S&D), Claire Fita (S&D), Catarina Martins (The Left), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE), Chloé Ridel (S&D), Evelyn Regner (S&D), Isilda Gomes (S&D), Irena Joveva (Renew), Daniel Attard (S&D), Li Andersson (The Left), Sara Matthieu (Verts/ALE), Aura Salla (PPE)

    As mentioned in the interinstitutional agreement of 16 December 2020, the EU has agreed to establish a digital levy as a new EU own resource. This initiative was delayed in favour of the multilateral approach via the G20/Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s two-pillar solution to address the tax challenges arising from the digitalisation of the economy.

    Unfortunately, a recent executive order by US President Donald Trump not only undermines the agreement reached for Pillar Two – establishing a global minimum level of corporate taxation – but also jeopardises a positive outcome in the negotiations of Pillar One, which deals with a fairer tax framework for large digital companies.

    As stated by Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra in his confirmation hearing: ‘It cannot be that we’re not going to tax these [digital] companies because we cannot come to a global agreement’. In light of this, the Commission should be prepared to propose a common digital services tax in the EU.

    Is the Commission prepared to make such a proposal? Can we expect it to do so in the context of the aggressive ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, and/or the recent exchange between EU Heads of State and Government regarding new EU own resources, as mentioned in the most recent European Council conclusions?

    Supporter[1]

    Submitted: 7.4.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protecting areas of particular natural beauty and controlling building activities in the EU: a new hotel in Sarakiniko – development or environmental disaster? – E-000556/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    According to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive[1], prior to granting consent for such projects, it is up to Member States to determine whether an EIA is necessary, based on a case-by-case analysis or by setting specific criteria[2]. Such an assessment, if required, will consider the impacts of the projects on cultural heritage and environmental aspects.

    The Commission does not verify whether individual building permits comply with the relevant national legislation. Without prejudice to the Commission’s role as guardian of the Treaties, it is primarily the responsibility of the Greek authorities to ensure that projects are developed in full compliance with EU law.

    In parallel, the Commission prioritises its enforcement efforts on cases pointing to a systemic breach of EU law[3]. For instance, the Commission ensures that the national legal framework complies with EU legislation by checking the transposition of directives, which it has done for the EIA Directive.

    The Commission also prioritises infringements preventing national judicial systems from ensuring effective enforcement of EU law or showing a persistent failure by a Member State to apply EU law correctly, with sufficient evidence of a general practice.

    Funding possibilities are available under the EU Cohesion Policy Funds[4],[5]. Under the shared management and subsidiarity principles governing these funds, project selection and implementation fall under the responsibility of the Member State. No financial support has been provided by the Cohesion Policy funds for this project.

    There is a relevant reform[6] included in the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan[7]. There are also funding opportunities through the EU programme for the environment and climate action[8].

    • [1] Directive 2011/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment, OJ L 26, 28.1.2012, p. 1-21, as amended by Directive 2014/52/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014, OJ L 124, 25.4.2014, p. 1-18.
    • [2] such as the location, size or type of project.
    • [3] As set out in the communication of 19 January 2017 (EU law: Better results through better application — C/2016/8600, OJ C 18, 19.1.2017, p. 10-20) and in the communication of 13 October 2022 COM(2022) 518 final — Enforcing EU law for a Europe that delivers.
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/cohesion-fund_en
    • [5] https://cohesiondata.ec.europa.eu/countries/GR/21-27
    • [6] ‘Preparation of Urban Plans in implementation of the urban policy reform’
    • [7] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en
    • [8] LIFE, https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/life_en
    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Urgent need to renew and modernise the commercial heavy-duty vehicle fleet to achieve the EU’s climate goals – E-000903/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission recognises that incentives can be useful in certain cases to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles.

    However, the adoption of subsidy programmes and other incentives is a decision taken at Member State level. At EU level, the CO2 standards Regulation for heavy-duty vehicles sets the framework for the transition to zero-emission commercial vehicles, creating predictability for investors and manufacturers.

    In the Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector[1] the Commission announced several initiatives to accelerate the uptake of zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles.

    These include a targeted amendment of the Eurovignette Directive[2], to extend the deadline to fully exempt zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles from road charges.

    The Plan also stresses the importance of finalising interinstitutional negotiations on the revision of the Weights and Dimensions Directive, to ensure payload parity between zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles and diesel vehicles.

    The Commission also published a communication to decarbonise corporate fleets[3], which notably encourages national authorities to provide financial support and incentives for public transport authorities and operators switching to zero-emission buses.

    This contributes to the preparation of a legislative proposal to decarbonise corporate fleets, expected by end 2025. As part of the work on corporate fleets, the Commission will also look into measures to accelerate the uptake of European zero-emission trucks.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0095&qid=1742550809591
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/362/oj
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0096&qid=1742550887847
    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Environmental destruction in Zaragoza: privatisation and mass logging in the Los Pinares de Venecia natural area to expand a theme park – E-000597/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As signatory to the Green City Accord[1], Zaragoza committed to enhance urban biodiversity, increase quality green areas, improve air quality, water and waste management, and reduce noise by 2030.

    Zaragoza was awarded the Cities’ Mission Label[2] after concluding its Climate City Contract[3], which plans CO2 absorption from urban trees and actions on re-naturalisation and circular economy[4].

    The Nature Restoration Regulation[5] requires Member States to ensure that, by 31 December 2030, there is no net loss in the total national area of urban green space and of urban tree canopy cover in urban ecosystem areas[6].

    It should be noted, however, that the Green City Accord, the Climate City Contract and the Nature Restoration Regulation allow the local authorities, in line with the subsidiarity principle, to decide on the actions to carry out in urban spaces, provided they respect the above commitments.

    It is therefore not for the Commission to comment on the choice of the competent authorities on the project referred to by the Honourable Member.

    However, Member States must monitor the area of urban green space and tree canopy as of August 2024 and report to the Commission by 30 June 2028[7].

    From August 2029, the Commission shall report to the European Parliament and to the Council. In addition, the Green City Accord signatory cities must report periodically about their progress in the run up to 2030[8] and the Climate City Contract provides for monitoring measures, which will allow the Commission to follow up on the compliance by Zaragoza with the above commitments and obligations in due time.

    • [1] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/urban-environment/green-city-accord_en
    • [2] EU Mission Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/climate-neutral-and-smart-cities_en
    • [3] https://netzerocities.app/resource-4068
    • [4] Ibid. cfr. Part B ‘Pathways’, pillar 3, page 73.
    • [5] Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2024 on nature restoration and amending Regulation (EU) 2022/869. OJ L, 2024/1991, 29.7.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1991/oj
    • [6]  Compared to 2024.
    • [7] Articles 20(1)(b) and 21(1) of Regulation (EU) 2024/2991.
    • [8] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/publications/european-green-city-accords-report-progress-and-achievements-2020-2023_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The role of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) in EU border and migration policy – E-002064/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In implementing its migration programmes, the Commission relies on the cooperation with several partners, including Member States’ agencies, international organisations and non-governmental organisations.

    One of them is the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), an entity that was assessed ex-ante (pillar-assessed) in line with EU law[1], and which has a track record of expertise.

    The pillar assessment contributes to ensure that entities entrusted with the implementation of EU funds under indirect management respect the principles of sound financial management, transparency, non-discrimination and visibility of EU’s actions.

    The activities implemented by ICMPD and funded by the EU budget are regularly monitored based on contractual clauses, which entitle the Commission to suspend or terminate any contract if there is evidence that obligations have been breached.

    The monitoring takes place through multiple channels, such as reporting, verification missions, results-oriented monitoring exercises, and external evaluations. ICMPD provides comprehensive and frequent monitoring and analysis of the operating environment, including the evolution of the human rights situation.

    T he Commission is working to enhance transparency by increasing the availability of information on the websites of the relevant Directorates-General.

    The Commission systematically publishes reports of strategic evaluations and has now also started publishing reports of evaluations at intervention level[2].

    Evaluation reports of projects managed by the ICMPD could also be published in the future, under the established procedure for this type of publication.

    • [1] Article 154 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046 (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/1046/oj) , and Article 157 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj).
    • [2] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/monitoring-and-evaluation/project-and-programme-evaluation-reports_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Cooperation between the EU and Algeria on migration – E-003042/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and Algeria regularly engage in migration dialogue in the framework of the Association Agreement[1] (2005). Algeria is also involved in the Rabat Process[2], a regional platform for migration governance.

    The EU does not provide any financial support to the Algerian government, including for the building of ‘fortifications’ along Algeria’s borders.

    Algeria benefits from two EU-funded migration programmes under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument — Global Europe[3]:

    Between 2023-2024, the Migration, Protection, Return and Reintegration Program[4] (EUR 85.6 million) implemented by the International Organisation for migration (IOM) supported 8 540 assisted voluntary returns of migrants from Algeria to their countries of origin, provided protection and direct assistance to 784 beneficiaries, and supported the reintegration of around 90 returnees from Algeria.

    The Regional Police Cooperation programme[5] (EUR 5 million, run by the International Criminal Police Organisation), focuses on building the technical capacity of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute criminal networks engaging in migrant smuggling and trafficking in human beings. Both programmes operate across North Africa.

    The Regional Development Protection Programme supports the United Nations High Commissioner for refugees (UNHCR) to provide protection and assistance to asylum seekers and refugees in Algeria.

    EU humanitarian aid provided to UNHCR focuses on providing potable water to refugees near Tindouf. IOM and UNHCR cooperate with the Algerian Red Crescent, which, does not receive EU funding.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/documents/treaties-agreements/agreement/?id=2002036
    • [2] https://www.rabat-process.org/en/
    • [3] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/funding-and-technical-assistance/funding-instruments/global-europe-neighbourhood-development-and-international-cooperation-instrument_en
    • [4] Adopted in 2021 https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/a60afbe4-31cd-4ded-bdb8-0a92b552fb4b_en?filename=C_2021_9615_F1_ANNEX_EN_V2_P1_1639232.PDF, and topped up in 2023 https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/ff5ece36-1ef3-4cfe-a40b-1648431c90a6_en?filename=C%282023%294402_AD%202023.PDF, with an additional top-up foreseen under the 2024 budget https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/ab2f12b1-06cf-40a3-bc56-73c76a54bf1c_en?filename=C_2024_7998_F1_ANNEX_EN_V2_P1_3737157.PDF
    • [5] Adopted in 2022 https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/08f7ebe5-4466-479a-9cbf-fbf5292cfa7f_en?filename=C_2022_6933_F1_ANNEX_EN_V1_P1_2132129.PDF
    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Funding for sexual and reproductive health and rights – E-000552/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has been and remains committed to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), as enshrined in the European Consensus on Development[1], the EU Global Health Strategy[2], the Gender Action Plan III[3], the EU Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025 and the new Roadmap for Women’s Rights[4], among other policy and legal frameworks.

    The commitment to SRHR translates into a wide range of actions in development and humanitarian settings. This for example includes programming under the Team Europe Initiative on SRHR in Africa and financial contributions to civil society organisations and multilateral organisations such as the United Nations Population Fund.

    Everyone in the international community must shoulder their responsibility as the scale and complexity of the current global needs require a collective response.

    To uphold EU’s commitment to global health and SRHR, the Commission engages in partnerships based on equal footing, co-ownership, mutual interest and strategic priorities.

    These partnerships involve policy dialogue and programmatic initiatives at global, regional and country levels. Stakeholders include EU institutions, Member States, partner countries, civil society, private sector, and development and humanitarian partners, including United Nations agencies.

    The EU also provides operational grants for framework partners who work on SRHR matters to ensure facilitation of their work.

    • [1] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/european-development-policy/european-consensus-development_en
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_22_7153
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52020JC0017
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/gender-equality/gender-equality-strategy_en
    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Collapse of the ruined Armenian Monastery in the occupied part of Cyprus – E-001179/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001179/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Costas Mavrides (S&D)

    Further to question E-001888/2021[1] on the desecration of the only remaining Armenian monastery located in the Turkish-occupied Pentadaktylos, the Commission stated in its concluding statement that ‘the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage will start the conservation works as soon as they can be safely implemented’. However, the Armenian community in Cyprus has called for immediate action, warning of a cultural tragedy, as the Armenian Monastery, exposed to the weather and vandals, has been reduced to ruins.

    In the past, the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage in Cyprus carried out a feasibility study for the monastery complex and its partial restoration, funded by the UNDP-PFF. The conservation works started in early 2020, but were interrupted a month later due to the pandemic and since then there has been no update on the Committee’s activities.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Council Regulation (EC) No 389/2006 requires reporting on financial support implemented under the financial assistance programme for the Turkish Cypriot community. Can the Commission explain why the Armenian Monastery is missing from these reports[2]?
    • 2.Given the situation, what immediate actions could the Commission take to support the conservation and protection of the Monastery?

    Submitted: 19.3.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-001888_EN.html
    • [2] E.g. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52024DC0268.
    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Stability pact escape clause to promote militarism and war – P-000802/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The reform of the Stability and Growth Pact[1] that entered into force last year foresees scope to accommodate spending on common priorities of the EU while maintaining sound and sustainable public finances in Member States.

    It explicitly indicates that social and economic resilience, including the European Pillar of Social Rights, is a common priority in the EU.

    As a result, increase in social and public services spending may be put forward in Member States’ medium-term fiscal-structural plans within a package of investments and reforms that underpin a more gradual fiscal adjustment, up to seven years instead of four years, thereby creating substantial additional fiscal space for such expenditures.

    At the same time, the geopolitical situation has significantly worsened in recent months. This requires a fast and strong increase in spending on defence in the EU.

    The activation of the National Escape Clause, in line with the conditions of Regulation 2024/1263, would allow Member States to transition to a higher level of defence expenditure without reducing the fiscal space for other expenditures in the coming years.

    • [1] https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/economic-and-fiscal-governance/stability-and-growth-pact_en
    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Scope for participation by civil society – E-000306/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is fully committed to supporting civil society, including by financing non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in line with the rules of EU financial programmes, as adopted by the co-legislators.

    The new Commission guidance[1] does not restrict the work of these organisations but clarifies the types of activities which should not be supported by EU financing. Civil society entities financed by EU programmes remain fully autonomous and free to establish their own views.

    Certain references in annexes to grant agreements under the EU programme for the environment and climate action (LIFE programme)[2] were brought to the Commission’s attention by the Committee on Budgetary Control in 2024.

    The Commission acknowledged that it is not appropriate to enter into agreements which foresee that NGOs lobby the European institutions for a specific political content, as part of their work programmes.

    Before issuing the guidance, the Commission carefully weighed the importance it attaches to a vibrant civil society and the reputational consequences of such references.

    The objective is to take an approach that balances the need for a healthy and independent civil society while protecting the EU’s financial interests and avoiding reputational risk.

    Independent civil society organisations are an essential part of the EU’s democracies and instrumental for putting into practice fundamental EU values.

    The Political Guidelines for the Commission 2024-2029[3] include a clear commitment to step up engagement with civil society organisations and to ensure that civil society is empowered and better protected in its work.

    The Commission will present in 2025 a Civil Society Strategy which will include actions to foster the engagement with civil society.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/common/guidance/guidance-funding-dev-impl-monit-enforce-of-eu-law_en.pdf
    • [2] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/life/life-operating-grants_en
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    Last updated: 14 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB and Iberdrola sign two loans totalling €108 million for investments in energy storage infrastructure in Extremadura

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • These loans will finance works to improve the Valdecañas pumped-storage hydroelectric complex in Cáceres to secure energy supply and to integrate renewables.
    • The project has received funding from the Regional Resilience Fund, which was set up by the Spanish Ministry of Economy, Trade and Enterprise to invest a portion of the NextGenerationEU loans, predominantly in environmental and social projects in Spain’s autonomous communities.
    • This operation also contributes to the EIB Group’s strategic priorities – namely climate action and cohesion –, to the objectives of the Spanish Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan and the REPowerEU plan, which aims to improve energy security in the European Union.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed two green loans with Iberdrola totalling €108 million – a €50 million loan using own funds and a €58 million loan with funds from the Regional Resilience Fund (FRA). The operation aims to improve the pumping capacity of the Valdecañas hydroelectric complex, which encompasses the Torrejón and the Valdecañas power plants.

    The complex will help to secure energy supply and create storage capacity enabling the integration and management of renewable energy. The Valdecañas plant will have a total installed capacity of 225 MW, a 15 MW hybrid battery and 7.5 MWh of stored energy.

    Together, the battery and hydroelectric units will make it possible to increase the added pumping capacity to a maximum of 313 MW, and the storage capacity of the Tajo system to 210 GWh. The works to improve pumping capacity will make use of the existing installations in the Valdecañas and Torrejón-Tajo reservoirs – without changes to the levels of operation – and the existing transport networks, thus reducing the impact on the environment.

    Once up and running, the complex will help to reduce CO2 emissions. In addition, the improvement works will directly create 165 jobs and a further 500 indirectly, boosting skilled employment. The total investment will take place in a cohesion region, an area where the per capita income is below the EU average. In this way, the project will contribute to climate action and territorial, economic and social cohesion – two of the eight priorities set out in the Group’s Strategic Roadmap for the years 2024-2027.

    Having received funding from the Regional Resilience Fund, the project is also in line with the objectives of Spain’s Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. The Regional Resilience Fund directs funding from the NextGenerationEU programme to boost investment in Spain autonomous communities, predominantly for environmental and social projects. The fund is led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Enterprise and is supported by the autonomous communities and cities and the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP), with the EIB Group as a strategic management partner.

    This operation is in line with the EIB’s action plan to support the REPowerEU initiative to improve energy security in the European Union and to reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports.

    How the Valdecañas pumped-storage hydroelectric complex works

    Reversible pumping plants, such as those in the Valdecañas hydroelectric complex, make it possible to use and generate electricity quickly, allowing for better management of the consumption and demand curve, and stabilising the electricity grid. The upper reservoir – which feeds the plant – acts like a storage system that is charged with the water’s potential energy. Energy can then be stored when excess energy is generated from other non-dispatchable energy sources, and can subsequently be recovered when needed. It operates like a closed circuit between the upper and lower reservoir, which does not just consume water, but also reuses it. This system, which is independent of precipitation and water resources, has a long service life and can provide wide-reaching reinforcement to the electricity grid. 

    Background information  

    EIB 

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – The EU framework for fiscal policies – 11-04-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    In order to ensure the stability of the Economic and Monetary Union, a robust framework is needed to prevent unsustainable public finances as far as possible. A reform (part of the ‘Six Pack’) amending the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) entered into force at the end of 2011. Another reform in this policy area, the intergovernmental Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union (TSCG), including the Fiscal Compact, entered into force in early 2013. Furthermore, a regulation on assessing national draft budgetary plans (part of the ‘Two Pack’) entered into force in May 2013. On 30 April 2024, a reformed economic governance framework entered into force.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) and Pro Music Rights, Inc. Call for Major Reform in U.S. Music Licensing Industry in Formal Response to Copyright Office Inquiry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Naples, FL, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) and its wholly owned subsidiary Pro Music Rights, Inc. (PMR) have submitted a detailed and forceful response to the U.S. Copyright Office’s Notice of Inquiry (Docket No. 2025–1), shining a spotlight on longstanding anti-competitive behavior by legacy Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) such as BMI and ASCAP, while offering a bold and transparent alternative through PMR’s equitable licensing model.

    Challenging the Status Quo: PMR’s submission criticizes legacy PROs for opaque revenue distributions, excessive payouts to private equity owners, and international licensing strong-arming via the global collective CISAC network. According to the filing, BMI—once a nonprofit—has covertly transformed into a for-profit entity, now diverting up to 20% of its royalties to private equity firms and an additional 30% through backdoor reciprocal agreements. These structures disproportionately benefit elite artists at the expense of the creative majority.

    “One License Fits All”: A Transparent, Scalable Model Pro Music Rights offers a radically simplified licensing model featuring a flat $50.00 per month base fee per location and a usage-based fee capped at $0.01—only charged based on the fractional share of the musical composition PMR represents. This approach ensures small businesses and multinational corporations alike receive the same fair and scalable licensing access.

    “PMR believes in equality, transparency, and technological innovation,” said Jake P. Noch, Founder & CEO of Music Licensing, Inc. and Pro Music Rights. “Every user should pay only for what they use, and every creator should be paid for what’s actually performed—without hidden fees, preferential payouts, or monopolistic barriers.”

    Key Highlights from the Filing:

    • Transparent Accounting: No hidden carve-outs, no private equity kickbacks, and real-time royalty tracking for rights holders.
    • Global Monopoly Concerns: BMI and ASCAP are accused of manipulating CISAC to blacklist competing PROs and CMOs that refuse to adopt their restrictive terms.
    • Regulatory Failures: The filing argues that existing antitrust consent decrees are outdated and calls for DOJ and FTC action to restore market fairness.
    • Historical Irony: Despite publicly disparaging PMR, BMI’s board previously engaged in confidential acquisition talks with Music Licensing, Inc., acknowledging PMR’s innovative value proposition.

    A Call for Legislative and Regulatory Reform Music Licensing, Inc. and PMR are urging the Copyright Office to enact reforms that mandate financial transparency for all PROs, prohibit global blacklisting practices, and encourage equitable, standardized licensing frameworks. PMR’s tech-forward, fair-access model demonstrates what the future of music rights management can look like when creators and users are both placed first.

    About Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC:SONG)  (ProMusicRights.com)

    Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG), also known as Pro Music Rights, is a diversified holding company and the fifth public performance rights organization (PRO) established in the United States. It is recognized under the federal registry of the United States government. The company licenses music to some of the most prominent platforms and businesses, including TikTok, iHeartMedia, Triller, Napster, 7Digital, Vevo, and many others.

    Pro Music Rights holds an estimated 7.4% market share in the United States, representing a catalog of more than 2.5 million works by notable artists such as A$AP Rocky, Wiz Khalifa, Pharrell, Young Jeezy, Juelz Santana, Lil Yachty, MoneyBagg Yo, Larry June, Trae Pound, Sauce Walka, Trae Tha Truth, Sosamann, Soulja Boy, Lex Luger, Trauma Tone, Lud Foe, SlowBucks, Gunplay, OG Maco, Rich The Kid, Fat Trel, Young Scooter, Nipsey Hussle, Famous Dex, Boosie Badazz, Shy Glizzy, 2 Chainz, Migos, Gucci Mane, Young Dolph, Trinidad James, Chingy, Lil Gnar, 3OhBlack, Curren$y, Fall Out Boy, Money Man, Dej Loaf, Lil Uzi Vert, and many others, including works generated by artificial intelligence (AI).

    Additionally, Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) holds royalty interests in Listerine “Mouthwash” Antiseptic and a vast portfolio of musical works by globally renowned artists, including The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Elton John, Mike Posner, blackbear, Lil Nas X, Lil Yachty, DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, XXXTentacion, BlueFace, The Game, Jeremih, Ty Dolla $ign, Eric Bellinger, Ne-Yo, MoneyBagg Yo, Halsey, Desiigner, DaniLeigh, Rihanna, and many others.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Investors are cautioned that, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, the ability of Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. to accomplish its stated plan of business. Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by Pro Music Rights, Inc., Music Licensing, Inc., or any other person.

    Non-Legal Advice Disclosure:

    This press release does not constitute legal advice, and readers are advised to seek legal counsel for any legal matters or questions related to the content herein.

    Non-Investment Advice Disclosure:

    This communication is intended solely for informational purposes and does not in any way imply or constitute a recommendation or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities, commodities, bonds, options, derivatives, or any other investment products. Any decisions related to investments should be made after thorough research and consultation with a qualified financial advisor or professional. We assume no liability for any actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this communication

    Contact: investors@ProMusicRights.com

    SOURCE: Music Licensing, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: Only 8 Days Left as XploraDEX $XPL Presale Nears Close—Investor FOMO Reaches New Highs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, Switzerland, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The pressure is on as XploraDEX, the groundbreaking AI-powered trading platform on the XRP Ledger, enters its final 8-day countdown before closing its $XPL presale. With excitement intensifying across the XRP communities, investors are rushing to secure their allocation before the window slams shut.

    Join $XPL Presale Now

    The $XPL presale has already passed the 85% milestone, signaling overwhelming interest from early adopters, whale wallets, and strategic traders who understand what’s coming. As the first AI-powered decentralized exchange built natively on XRPL, XploraDEX is poised to redefine smart trading and early investors know the opportunity to enter at presale pricing is about to vanish.

    Unlike any traditional DEX, XploraDEX integrates real-time artificial intelligence, giving users access to smart trading dashboards, predictive market analytics, automated execution engines, and adaptive risk alerts. The platform is built for precision and performance, designed to help traders outperform by making decisions rooted in data, not emotion.

    Buy $XPL Tokens

    $XPL Token Utility

    The utility of $XPL extends far beyond trading discounts. Token holders unlock access to premium AI tools, early staking and yield opportunities, governance voting rights, and exclusive allocations through the platform’s integrated launchpad. In short, $XPL isn’t just a token—it’s the backbone of the XploraDEX ecosystem.

    Investors who join during the $XPL Presale will benefit from early-bird rewards, VIP access to beta features, and ground-floor positioning before the token is listed on XRPL-based exchanges. Once the presale ends, the price will increase—and the first phase of staking, AI activation, and partner integrations will begin.

    With 8 days remaining, FOMO is reaching new highs. Social media engagement is exploding, whale accumulation is intensifying, and more than 10,000 wallets have interacted with the platform’s sale portal. The clock is ticking, and the final allocations are moving fast.

    Participate in $XPL Presale

    XploraDEX has been called the most intelligent trading product to ever launch on XRPL. If you missed out on early plays like GMX, DYDX, or SUI, this might be your second chance—but only if you act now.

    There are 8 days left. After that, $XPL will enter the open market, and the early phase will be gone forever.

    Join the $XPL Presale Now: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ca2d656-18ac-4669-b82b-4ab04dd023b9

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BDTCOIN Now Listed on MEXC, Accelerating Its Mission to Democratize Digital Finance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla., April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BDTCOIN, a pioneering digital currency focused on financial inclusion and cross-border transactions, has officially been listed on MEXC, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges. This milestone marks a significant leap forward in BDTCOIN’s mission to revolutionize the financial landscape, making it more accessible, efficient, and inclusive for underserved communities worldwide.

    Launched with the vision to bridge the gap between traditional assets and decentralized finance, BDTCOIN is a gold-backed cryptocurrency that combines the enduring stability of physical gold with the transparency and efficiency of blockchain technology. Each BDTCOIN is backed by tangible gold reserves, giving it a unique edge in today’s volatile digital asset market. By integrating cutting-edge features like quantum-resistant cryptography and lightning-fast transactions, the currency is built not only for stability but also for scalability and real-world utility.

    The listing on MEXC Global makes BDTCOIN accessible to millions of users worldwide, unlocking new opportunities for trading, investing, and utilizing BDTCOIN in everyday financial activities. MEXC’s expansive global presence and strong reputation for listing high-potential, credible projects will provide BDTCOIN with enhanced visibility and adoption in both institutional and retail markets.

    BDTCOIN is built on a secure and scalable blockchain protocol incorporating quantum-resistant encryption, lightning-fast transactions, and smart contract functionality. These features ensure that BDTCOIN remains not only a store of value but also a practical, usable currency in today’s fast-moving digital economy. The technology has been developed with long-term resilience in mind, offering security against future threats such as quantum computing while supporting decentralized applications and integrations.

    “We’ve always believed that technology can empower the unbanked and underbanked. Listing on MEXC is not just a technical milestone—it’s a meaningful step toward delivering financial access to those who’ve been excluded from the system for far too long.”

    — BDTCOIN creator

    “BDTCOIN was built with purpose—real asset backing, technological integrity, and a user-first approach. Being listed on a global exchange like MEXC validates that purpose and sets the stage for us to scale our impact across borders.”

    — BDTCOIN creator

    Kickstarter Voting Details:

    Snapshot Time: April 13, 2025, 16:00 UTC (minimum 25 MX required)

    Voting Period: April 14, 2025, 10:00 UTC – April 15, 2025, 09:50 UTC

    Airdrop Pool: 50,000 USDT

    Trading Starts: April 15, 2025, 12:00 UTC

    Withdrawal Opens: April 16, 2025, 12:00 UTC

    Participants can commit between 25 to 500,000 MX tokens, with reward multipliers available for users who invite new valid users to the MEXC platform.

    https://x.com/MEXC_Listings/status/1911713357289189772    (embed)

    With a growing ecosystem of users, developers, and advocates, BDTCOIN is positioning itself as a frontrunner in the emerging class of asset-backed cryptocurrencies. Its focus on transparency, decentralization, and inclusivity resonates with global investors and consumers alike who are looking for secure and meaningful ways to engage with digital finance.

    The listing on MEXC also comes at a time when gold-backed digital assets are gaining momentum because they offer both the benefits of crypto and the stability of physical assets. BDTCOIN is poised to be at the forefront of this movement, creating new pathways for economic empowerment, especially in emerging markets.

    For more information, visit https://bdtcoin.co and follow BDTCOIN’s official channels for updates, partnerships, and community initiatives.

    About BDTCOIN

    BDTCOIN is a next-generation cryptocurrency focused on financial inclusion and seamless cross-border transactions. Built on a secure and decentralized blockchain, BDTCOIN empowers individuals and businesses by providing efficient, low-cost financial services worldwide.

    Company Details:

    Website: https://bdtcoin.co/

    Explorer: https://bdtcoin.info

    Development: https://bdtcoin.org

    Contact:
    Sultan
    Email: Admin@bdtcoin.co

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the BDTCOIN. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.
    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ad786ea-b501-46a8-b0d6-0dd959ec171b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2d634702-5f58-4a9a-9b48-6dc587f531a9

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: WEO Chapter 2: The Rise of the Silver Economy: Global Implications of Population Aging

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    On Wednesday, April 16 at 6:00 a.m. ET, we will release new research on global demographic shifts, highlighting the rapid population aging worldwide, the rise of the ‘silver economy,’ and the impact on economic growth.

    Join Bertrand Gruss, Deputy Division Chief in the IMF’s Research Department, Andrew J. Scott, Professor of Economics at the London Business School and Michelle Fleury, Correspondent at BBC News, for a discussion on key findings and policy implications.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=musZoIF-1Uc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE investigation results in US seizing assets related to $126 million illegal staffing, money laundering case

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    DAYTON, Ohio – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio announced April 14 that the United States filed a civil forfeiture complaint against assets related to an investigation into a potential $126 million illegal staffing and money laundering operation.

    In July 2024, ICE Homeland Security Investigations, in collaboration with Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and other law enforcement agencies, executed federal search warrants at Fuyao Glass America in Moraine, Ohio, and 27 other locations in the Dayton area.

    The civil complaint alleges that multiple suspects created roughly 40 entities (the “target entities”) that facilitate the harboring, transportation and employment of illegal aliens at various factories. The suspects used these target entities to augment the workforces of several factories with individuals who illegally entered the United States, who are unlawfully present in the United States and/or who are working without required employment authorizations. One of these factories is FGA in Moraine.

    It is alleged that many of the workers were illegally smuggled into the United States, primarily through Mexico, and encouraged to travel to the Dayton area to be employed by one of the target entities and serve as a workforce at the various factories. Most of the workers are of Chinese or Hispanic nationality. Workers allegedly lived at “family style hotels” (boarding houses) owned by the target entities and were driven to and from work in transportation provided by the target entities.

    “We will continue to investigate allegations of unfair labor practices,” said ICE HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “Collaboration across multiple law enforcement agencies helps to ensure accountability for both employers and the workforce.”

    The 74-page complaint details that the target entities allegedly engaged in money laundering to conceal the multi-million-dollar income generated by the workers. Within days of receiving direct payments from FGA, the suspects would extensively wire funds between their various LLCs. In total, FGA has paid more than $126 million to LLCs controlled by the suspects. The money was allegedly used by the suspects for private financial gain and to purchase real estate, vehicles and luxury goods.

    In the civil complaint filed on April 2, the United States alleges that the following property is subject to forfeiture: seven bank accounts, 12 properties in the Dayton area, two properties outside of Ohio, 15 vehicles and luxury goods, including a Cartier watch.

    Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Detroit; Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; and Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigations; announced the filing. The FBI, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office have assisted in the criminal investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam C. Tieger and Deborah D. Grimes are representing the United States in the civil forfeiture action.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs legislation investing additional $170 million to prevent catastrophic wildfires, issues executive order to fast-track projects

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 14, 2025

    What you need to know: California is investing an additional $170 million to support forest and vegetation management projects critical to protecting communities from wildfire.

    SACRAMENTO – Protecting communities ahead of peak fire season, Governor Gavin Newsom today took action to fast-track critical projects to ensure wildfire resiliency statewide. 

    Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 100 (Gabriel), which allocates over $170 million in accelerated funding to conservancies for forest and vegetation management across California. The bill also allocates $10 million to support wildfire response and resiliency.

    With this latest round of funding, we’re continuing to increase the speed and size of forest and vegetation management essential to protecting communities. We are leaving no stone unturned – including cutting red tape – in our mission to ensure our neighborhoods are protected from destructive wildfires.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    [embedded content]

     Funding to conservancies includes:

    • $30,904,000 to the Sierra Nevada Conservancy
    • $23,524,000 to the California Tahoe Conservancy 
    • $31,349,000 to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy 
    • $30,904,000 to the State Coastal Conservancy
    • $30,904,000 to the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy
    • $23,524,000 to the San Diego River Conservancy

    AB 100 implements the “early action” 2025 budget package to address items necessary to adopt this fiscal year. 

    In addition, Governor Newsom signed an executive order to ensure that the wildfire safety projects funded under AB 100 benefit from streamlining under a previous emergency proclamation issued in March. Read the executive order here. In March, the Governor issued an emergency proclamation to cut bureaucratic red tape – including suspending CEQA and the Coastal Act – that was slowing down critical forest management projects.

    These actions build on years of work to increase forest management and wildfire resilience in the state. It also follows the Governor’s executive order signed last month to further improve community hardening and wildfire mitigation strategies to increase neighborhood resilience statewide.

    Governor Newsom took similar action in March 2019 to expedite forest management projects ahead of particularly challenging fire seasons in 2019 and 2020.

    More forest management and prescribed burns than ever before

    • Preventing wildfire through forest and land management. The state is investing $2.5 billion to ramp up and implement the Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan, increasing the pace of fuel reduction, prescribed fire, and forest health. 100% of the 99 key actions outlined in the plan are underway or completed. This is in addition to $200 million invested annually through 2028-29 for healthy forest and fire prevention programs.
    • Using controlled burns to build community and forest resilience. California launched a strategic plan on beneficial fire to expand the use of prescribed fire and cultural burning to build forest and community resilience. Key goals from the plan are already in action to increase the use of prescribed fires, and prescribed fire activity has nearly doubled between 2021 and 2023.
    • Tracking wildfire prevention. California recently unveiled newly updated, first-of-their-kind dashboards that will help Californians track the state’s wildfire prevention work.
    • Early action. One of the very first executive actions Governor Newsom took after assuming office was to declare a state of emergency in response to wildfires in 2019. This order, in part, exempted critical wildfire and forest management projects from California’s environmental law (CEQA).

    See all of Governor Newsom’s actions to increase wildfire resilience and forest management. 

    Recent news

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    Apr 11, 2025

    News What you need to know: There are just four days left for homeowners and businesses to apply for debris removal assistance. LOS ANGELES – As nearly 500 crews of expert heavy equipment operators work around the clock to rapidly clear ash, soot, and fire debris from…

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    News What you need to know: Supported by $10 million from the state, LA Rises, Maersk and APM Terminals, fire-impacted small businesses, nonprofits, and workers will receive $19.1 million from LA-area grant programs.  LOS ANGELES – Earlier this week, the Los Angeles…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States seizes assets related to $126 million illegal staffing, money laundering investigation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAYTON, Ohio – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) announced today that the United States filed a civil forfeiture complaint against assets related to an investigation into a potential $126 million illegal staffing and money laundering operation. 

    In July 2024, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents, in collaboration with IRS Criminal Investigations and other law enforcement agencies, executed federal search warrants at Fuyao Glass America (“FGA”) in Moraine, Ohio, and 27 other locations in the Dayton area.

    The civil complaint alleges that multiple suspects created roughly 40 entities (the “target entities”) that facilitate the harboring, transportation and employment of illegal aliens at various factories.   The suspects used these target entities to augment the workforces of several factories with individuals who illegally entered the United States, who are unlawfully present in the United States and/or who are working without required employment authorizations. One of these factories is FGA in Moraine. 

    It is alleged that many of the workers were illegally smuggled into the United States, primarily through Mexico, and encouraged to travel to the Dayton area to be employed by one of the target entities and serve as a workforce at the various factories. Most of the workers are of Chinese or Hispanic nationality. Workers allegedly lived at “family style hotels” (boarding houses) owned by the target entities and were driven to and from work in transportation provided by the target entities.

    “We will continue to investigate allegations of unfair labor practices,” said ICE HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “Collaboration across multiple law enforcement agencies helps to ensure accountability for both employers and the workforce.”

    The 74-page complaint details that the target entities allegedly engaged in money laundering to conceal the multi-million-dollar income generated by the workers. Within days of receiving direct payments from FGA, the suspects would extensively wire funds between their various LLCs. In total, FGA has paid more than $126 million to LLCs controlled by the suspects. The money was allegedly used by the suspects for private financial gain and to purchase real estate, vehicles and luxury goods.

    In the civil complaint filed on April 2, the United States alleges that the following property is subject to forfeiture: seven bank accounts, 12 properties in the Dayton area, two properties outside of Ohio, 15 vehicles and luxury goods, including a Cartier watch.

    The related criminal investigation remains ongoing.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; and Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigations; announced the filing. The FBI, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office have assisted in the criminal investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam C. Tieger and Deborah D. Grimes are representing the United States in the civil forfeiture action.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why weakening U.S. bank regulators could repeat the mistakes of the 2008 financial crisis

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By William D. O’Connell, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Center for Political Economy, Columbia University

    As United States President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements wreak havoc on stock markets, concerns are mounting over the possibility of a global financial crisis.

    These concerns have intensified amid reports that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Tesla founder Elon Musk, has set its sights on the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) — the U.S. agency responsible for protecting deposits and administering bank insolvencies.

    The targeting of the FDIC appears to mark an escalation in the Trump administration’s efforts to rein in regulatory agencies. In February, an executive order issued issued by Trump expanded his control over independent regulators, including the FDIC.

    What sets the FDIC apart from other agencies targeted by DOGE is that it’s not under direct executive authority and it isn’t funded by the U.S. government. Instead, the FDIC is funded through levies on the banks it monitors — a structure designed to insulate it from political pressure.

    An escalating campaign over regulation

    In February, the FDIC cut 1,000 new and temporary staff as part of DOGE’s broader cuts to the federal bureaucracy. According to a regulatory official, DOGE has reportedly been reviewing the agency’s contracts and staffing.

    In December, Trump administration officials reportedly floated abolishing the FDIC with prospective nominees for various bank regulatory appointments.

    More recently, in February, DOGE and U.S. administration officials attempted to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a separate regulator that was established after the 2008 financial crisis. A judge moved to block this process in late March after finding the administration had acted “completely in violation of law.”

    There are also reports suggesting the FDIC’s regulatory and intervention functions could be transferred to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Unlike the FDIC, the OCC is under the authority of the Treasury Department, therefore lacking the same degree of operational independence. This risks further politicizing decisions on bank regulation or intervention.

    Any of these reforms would be a disaster for the stability of the global financial system.

    What the FDIC does and why it matters

    Deposit insurers like the FDIC cover losses for deposits in the event of a bank failure. In theory, this coverage is capped at $250,000 in the U.S. and $100,000 in Canada. In practice, as the failure of Silicon Valley Bank in 2023 made clear, there is no upper limit to this insurance.

    This insurance serves two main purposes. First, it protects everyday people and small businesses from risks taken by their banks. Two, it prevents panic, as it means depositors have no reason to rush to withdraw their money before a bank collapses.

    The FDIC and its Canadian equivalent, the Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation, have the authority to intervene when banks fail, ensuring they are wound down in an orderly fashion without a bailout or broader economic disruption.

    During the 2008 financial crisis, few mechanisms other than taxpayer-funded bailouts existed to rescue the financial system. Post-crisis reforms, like the Dodd–Frank Act, granted the FDIC more power help address systemically important bank failures with a broader set of tools. Many of these reforms were negotiated at the international level.

    Project 2025, a Heritage Foundation plan that has supported many of DOGE’s interventions, has called to repeal these reforms. Dismantling or undermining the FDIC would strip the U.S. of one of its most effective ways to respond to a financial crisis.

    The FDIC also plays a role in monitoring large banks, alongside the Federal Reserve and the OCC. At the international level, the FDIC works with foreign regulators to plan for the possibility of a crisis, and to implement solutions if one occurs.

    Global financial system at risk

    In 2023, the FDIC failed to prevent the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank largely due to two key reasons: deregulation enacted during the first Trump administration and staffing shortages that existed even before the February cuts.

    However, once the FDIC did intervene, it was able to contain the crisis and prevent wider fallout. Weakening the FDIC, as has occurred with other U.S. federal agencies, would greatly reduce its ability to perform this function in the future. Fewer regulators means less oversight and more risk-taking behaviour by financial institutions.



    Read more:
    What Canada can learn from the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank

    Limiting the FDIC’s capacity to intervene would effectively return the U.S. to a pre-2008 world in which large banks operated with the expectation of public bailouts. This is a hazard made more dangerous by the fact that many of those banks are much larger and more interconnected than they were back then.

    Foreign regulators also rely heavily on the FDIC for information on the health of U.S. banks and U.S.-based subsidiaries of foreign banks. This co-operation was crucial to ensuring a smooth resolution when global bank Credit Suisse failed in 2023. Without a reliable, independent FDIC, these relationships may fall apart, leaving the world with few options to avoid another financial meltdown.

    Global financial stability depends, in large part, on U.S. leadership. But recent developments indicate the current administration no longer believes this responsibility is in its best interests. If this view extends to the FDIC’s role in regulating and resolving too-big-to-fail banks, the world faces risks far greater than just volatility in the stock market.

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

    – ref. Why weakening U.S. bank regulators could repeat the mistakes of the 2008 financial crisis – https://theconversation.com/why-weakening-u-s-bank-regulators-could-repeat-the-mistakes-of-the-2008-financial-crisis-254365

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Financial Institutions’ Asset Growth Slowed Last Year Amid Tight Monetary Conditions

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    Traditionally, the largest increase in assets was seen in banks. At the same time, non-credit financial institutions (NFIs) grew dynamically, offering products that allowed them to compete in terms of profitability with bank deposits, such as money market exchange-traded funds and short-term life insurance policies. At the same time, the share of assets in brokerage services in the volume of total assets decreased.

    The profitability of most Russian financial institutions has increased. Management companies remained the most profitable among the main segments of NFIs in 2024.

    Read more in“Overview of the Russian financial sector” for 2024.

    Preview photo: YanLev Alexey Sizov / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV.KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23543

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On World Quantum Day, Colorado Announces Nation-Leading Steps to Elevate K–12 Quantum Learning

    Source: US State of Colorado

    The Polis Administration is charting a path forward to prepare students for great careers in the state’s rapidly growing quantum technology economy

    DENVER – Today, on World Quantum Day, the Polis Administration and Elevate Quantum announced the Blueprint for Advancing K–12 Quantum Information Technology, which puts forth a bold vision to prepare Colorado students for the technology careers of the future. The Blueprint outlines clear steps for lawmakers, educators, and district leaders to expand access to quantum education and provides a phased strategy to bring Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST) concepts into classrooms, support educators, and engage students across Colorado.

    “Colorado is leading the way as the epicenter of quantum technology. As our state’s quantum economy continues to grow, we’re making sure educators and school leaders have the necessary tools to bring these concepts into the classroom so that every Colorado student can get the skills to thrive in the industries of tomorrow,” said Governor Polis.

    A new webpage from the Colorado Department of Education offers ready-to-use quantum K–12 lesson plans and activities designed to spark curiosity, build skills, and connect classroom learning to real-world careers. This will serve as a centralized hub where educators, students, and district leaders can explore curated quantum activities, classroom resources, professional development opportunities, and guidance on how to bring quantum into STEM instruction.

    “Colorado continues to be at the forefront of preparing students not just for today’s opportunities, but for the careers of tomorrow. This blueprint reflects our commitment to ensuring every student can explore, engage, and thrive in the evolving quantum economy,” said Commissioner of Education Susana Córdova.

    In 2023, following a competitive national process, Colorado earned federal recognition as a Regional Technology and Innovation Hub by the U.S. Department of Commerce for the state’s leadership in quantum science. Today, about 3,000 Colorado workers are employed in the quantum workforce and support more than 30 quantum technology companies. The QIST industry is expected to grow 18% annually, offering high-paying jobs across quantum computing, networking, sensing, and applications.

    “With the incredible ways the quantum industry is impacting Colorado’s economy, it’s critical for us to build the quantum talent pipeline now. By focusing on Colorado’s youth via this blueprint and our teacher externship program targeting the industry, more Colorado students will be exposed and energized about lucrative careers in quantum ultimately growing the homegrown talent pipeline for one of the state’s fastest growing industries,” said Joe Barela, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.

    “Colorado leads the world in quantum research, quantum companies and quantum jobs, and we are committed to ensuring that Coloradans can develop the skills to be part of and contribute to this growing field. Introducing students of all ages to the exciting potential of quantum will help continue our leadership for the years and decades to come,” said Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

    “To continue to lead in quantum, we need to expose students earlier to the concepts and competencies of quantum information science and technology (QIST). This blueprint does that and ensures that all Colorado students are familiar with QIST and its significance in the broader economy. Our community colleges and four-year universities stand ready to educate and train students—whether they’re working toward an industry certificate or a Ph.D.— and our new quantum incubator, which launched in January, is another way the state is bringing quantum physics out of the lab and into the real world,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education.

    “Colorado’s community colleges are proud to help lead the development of a quantum-ready workforce by building clear, direct pathways from K–12 into high-demand college programs. As a partner of Elevate Quantum—with Front Range Community College serving on its board—we’re not only preparing the next generation of technicians and innovators but also working to ensure students across the state are aware of and ready for these opportunities well before they reach college. The K–12 Quantum Blueprint is a critical step toward creating a seamless learning pipeline—from early exposure to robust career and technical education programs—that leads directly into college and career opportunities in this fast-growing field,” said Chancellor Joe Garcia of the Colorado Community College System.

    “Core to Elevate Quantum’s mission to accelerate the commercialization of quantum technologies, is ensuring that we have the trained and credentialed workforce necessary to fill the new jobs that will be needed to make this mission a reality. Having a strong blueprint for K-12 quantum education will be an important catalyst for building accessible pathways into quantum careers, inspiring the next generation of innovators, and ensuring Colorado remains a national leader in the quantum economy,” said Jessi Olsen, Chief Financial and Operations Officer of Elevate Quantum.

    To help meet the growing demand for quantum talent in the state and to ensure Colorado continues to lead in the quantum economy, the Polis Administration has invested $75 million in state dollars for statewide quantum workforce and infrastructure development, as well as $40 million in federal funding through the Elevate Quantum tech hub.

    “Colorado’s economic future depends on our ability to nurture homegrown talent in cutting-edge fields. St. Vrain Valley Schools’ partnership with Elevate Quantum is creating an educational ecosystem where students develop quantum literacy from an early age, establishing our state as the premier destination for quantum industry growth,” said Don Haddad, Superintendent of St. Vrain Valley Schools.

    “Quantum awareness isn’t a specialized skill for a select few but a fundamental literacy that will enhance opportunities for students across all postsecondary pathways. We’re cultivating both the knowledge and enthusiasm needed for students to recognize how quantum innovations will empower their future, whether they become electricians, nurses, entrepreneurs, welders, engineers, HVAC technicians, or educators,” said Joe McBreen, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation of St. Vrain Valley Schools.

    Today’s announcement is part of the Polis Administration’s broader work to bridge the gap between education and workforce, ensuring all Coloradans can access the opportunities of the quantum future. To explore the Blueprint and classroom resources, visit cde.state.co.us/quantum.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: LIFTing up STEM and life sciences education

    [. Alberta’s government continues to allocate funding in a responsible way that respects taxpayer dollars, while putting Alberta on the global stage with cutting-edge research and innovation.

    Through Budget 2025, Alberta’s government is investing $100 million over three years to turn the 56-year-old Biological Sciences Building at the University of Alberta into a world-leading STEM and life sciences research and education hub.

    The Biological Sciences building will be transformed into the Life Sciences Innovation and Future Technologies (LIFT) Centre, a dynamic and shared laboratory complex where researchers, students and industry partners can work together to solve the most urgent problems facing Alberta and the broader world. The facility is expected to double much-needed laboratory spaces for hands-on experimentation and increase access to high-demand programs across the university.

    “We are committed to strengthening our world-class post-secondary education system to ensure that the workforce we develop today can compete in the economic realities of tomorrow. This investment will double the Faculty of Science’s lab space, solidify the university’s reputation as top destination for students and researchers, and help prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    The project will be built in five phases and enable the University of Alberta to double the number of laboratory seats from 1,600 to 3,200, allowing for almost 2,500 new domestic students to access undergraduate programs in the faculties of Science, and Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences. There will also be about 700 additional graduate student spaces.

    “This significant investment in the Biological Sciences Building will empower more University of Alberta students to enter the health and life sciences and STEM fields, which are in high demand in our growing economy. This new facility will foster cutting-edge research, collaboration with industry and innovative ideas that will help students build the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow.”

    Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education

    The complete redevelopment of the Biological Sciences Building will create Canada’s preeminent home for cutting-edge life sciences education, research, discovery and experiential learning, right here in Alberta. Through investments like the LIFT Centre, Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge of a growing population and building the workforce Alberta needs, today and in the future.

    “This substantial investment will advance Alberta as a global leader in STEM and life sciences research and education. It’s an exciting time at the university, as this investment enhances our position as an internationally renowned centre of innovation and knowledge and increases our capacity to educate the next generation of leaders and changemakers.”

    Bill Flanagan, president and vice-chancellor, University of Alberta

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick Facts

    • The Biological Sciences Building has not received any major renovations since its construction in 1969.
    • The funding will include major retrofitting and updating of complex utilities, controlled environments and advanced safety features.
    • The scope of the project includes renovations on level 4, level 5, level 10 (including mezzanine) and level 11 (including mezzanine) within the Zoology Wing to transform the space into a wet laboratory space.
    • When completed, the newly named LIFT Centre is expected to double the number of lab spaces to 3,200.

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Delegation Condemns Trump Administration’s Decision to Eliminate Key Manufacturing Program

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) led the Oregon delegation – including U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05) – in a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to eliminate the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. The MEP program is a public-private partnership that helps small- and medium-sized manufacturers grow by streamlining operations and reducing their risk.

    Ten MEP centers were recently notified that the Department of Commerce will not be renewing their cooperative agreements “due to a shift in departmental priorities.” In their letter, the lawmakers note that additional centers – including the Oregon Manufacturing Extension Partnership (OMEP) – anticipate receiving the same notice as their agreements come up for renewal.

    “Oregon manufacturers contribute nearly $40 billion to our state’s economy and support over 175,000 good paying jobs. Eliminating the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program directly undermines small and medium-sized manufacturers in Oregon, and threatens our local economic stability. We urge you to reverse course and sustain this vital program,” wrote the Members.

    Over the past ten years, OMEP has strengthened Oregon’s manufacturing sector and delivered $3.9 billion in direct economic impact. OMEP supports over 530 businesses in Oregon with a significant presence in all six congressional districts. In 2024 alone, OMEP leveraged $2.2 million in funding to support $165.6 million in private investment – a 75:1 return on investment for U.S. taxpayers.

    The lawmakers go on to emphasize how the MEP program saved Oregon manufacturers $24 million last year, allowing them to create or retain 1,400 jobs across the state.

    They continued: “President Trump has made it a priority to support domestic manufacturing, and MEP is one of our most effective and cost-efficient programs to help these companies succeed. That’s why funding for this program has consistently received bipartisan support in Congress, including from our delegation. We respectfully urge you to reconsider any plans to reduce or eliminate funding for state MEP centers, and we stand ready to work together to strengthen Oregon manufacturing.”

    To read the full letter, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Colleagues Press U.S. Trade Representative on Impacts of Destructive Trump Tariffs on Farmers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch, a member of the Senate Finance Committee and Senate Agriculture Committee, joined Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and 17 of their colleagues in expressing great concern about the impact of the Administration’s reckless tariff agenda on our nation’s farmers. In their letter, the Senators pressed U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer for information on how the Administration’s tariff taxes will impact farmers across the nation. 
    “Farmers not only have billions of dollars in commodities from last year waiting to be sold, but also have started spring planting and rely on stable markets for their planning. These farmers have made planting decisions and purchased key inputs such as seeds and fertilizer, selected crop insurance coverage, and even began marketing their expected production,” wrote the Senators. “Long before the President’s across-the-board tariff announcement, millions of acres of fall-planted crops like winter wheat were already in the ground, and farmers already have enough uncertainty without tariffs adding more volatility.” 
    The Senators continued: “We continue to hear from farmers and businesses across the agricultural supply chain who are bearing the brunt of the negative impacts of the global tariffs announced by President Trump on April 2, 2025, and earlier tariffs on Canada and Mexico. These actions and the resulting retaliation have injected further uncertainty into the farm economy and continue to rattle commodity markets.” 
    “As farm organizations and economists have been warning for months, key trading partners will continue to retaliate against U.S. agricultural products as a result of President Trump’s tariffs,” wrote the Senators. “A prolonged trade war now with key trading partners will just further exacerbate those trade shifts. This market share that farmers are losing is the result of more than $15 billion in investments by both taxpayers and the farmers themselves through trade promotion programs over the last 50 years…We have serious concerns about the haphazard approach taken by the Administration to tariffs that cause unnecessary uncertainty and harm for U.S. farmers and their markets.” 
    In their letter, the Senators requested answers to the following questions: 
    Did USTR perform any analysis on the impact of the across-the-board tariff policy on farmers prior to implementation? If so, please share that analysis with us. 
    What do you expect to be the short- and long-term impacts of tariffs on farmers? 
    There have been conflicting reports as to whether tariffs are being used as leverage in trade negotiations or as a long-term structural shift in trade policy. 
    Can you provide clarity on the goals of the Administration’s trade policy? 
    If tariffs are being used as leverage in trade negotiations, what are your top agriculture priorities and markets?  What countries are you prioritizing in negotiations, and what is the basis for determining those countries? 
    President Trump indicated that U.S. farmers need to get ready to supply the domestic market instead of the international markets. 
    Has USTR or have other agencies done analysis to show how production and consumption of crops would need to shift, or what domestic processing would be necessary to accomplish this goal?  For example, there is very limited domestic cotton spinning, weaving or apparel manufacturing. 
    Significant parts of the agricultural trade imbalance are related to imports of specialty crops, many of which are either grown in tropical regions or imported during the off-season. U.S. farmers will not be able to produce these commodities in the same volume or season. Will consumers need to shift from fresh produce in the off season or be forced to pay a higher price due to the tariffs on these products? 
    Prior to the announcement of the across-the-board tariffs and per-country rates, the USDA announced plans for trade missions to several countries including some with tariffs as high as 46%. 
    Did USTR consult with USDA on the trade missions or setting tariffs based on targets for opening markets? 
    Along with Senators Welch and Klobuchar, the letter was signed by Sens. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.). 
    Read and download the full letter here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What parents need to know about online misogyny

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    By Annabel Hoare, Anglia Ruskin University

    The success of Netflix drama Adolescence, along with concerns about misogynistic influencers such as Andrew Tate, has brought the “manosphere” into public discussion.

    Many parents, particularly of young boys, may fear they don’t know enough about what their children are exposed to online. I research radical misogyny online, and the pathways by which young people encounter these spaces. Here is what parents should know about this content.

    What is the manosphere?

    The manosphere is a network of communities that create, consume and distribute content online aimed at men and boys. It includes multiple groups that differ in their aims and focus, but are all largely anti-feminist.

    These groups discuss masculinity, but also topics such as health, gaming, politics and finance. They trivialise hateful rhetoric through memes, comedy and trolling (provocation or bullying for amusement) by framing it as self-help, entertainment and tools for financial success. This can make it difficult for parents to identify and for children to realise the extreme messages they are being exposed to.

    Manosphere content is promoted by various influencers on popular social media platforms. These influencers often showcase unattainable wealth and status, selling the illusion that followers can achieve success by adopting their teachings.

    The most notable manosphere influencer is Andrew Tate, who rose to fame in 2022. He and his brother Tristan are currently under investigation in Romania for charges of rape, human trafficking and money laundering, and in the UK for rape and human trafficking. However, he is not the only influencer out there.

    In recent years, there have been a number of incidents of violence that have been linked to manosphere content. The extent of real-world effects is difficult to measure, and not everyone who engages with the manosphere will go on to commit violence. But it’s clear that these communities can promote violence or spread harmful ideas about women and girls.

    It is important to note, however, that this content also harms men and young boys. The manosphere promotes unrealistic expectations and extreme measures which can lead to poor self-esteem, mental health problems and, in some cases, suicide. This content preys on vulnerabilities and insecurities of boys and young men, especially related to social isolation and sexual rejection.

    Misinformation and pseudoscience

    Much of the content that spreads in the manosphere is based on disinformation or pseudoscientific theories. These provide an easy framework for men to assess and improve their status while framing women and feminism as the problem.

    For example, the “80/20 rule” refers to the pseudoscientific theory that 80% of women are only attracted to the top 20% of men. In the manosphere, this rule is used to blame women for mens’ feelings of sexual or romantic rejection.

    Influencers and community members promote step-by-step instructions that people can follow to improve their social standing. Many of these guides involve extreme or harmful physical transformations in a phenomenon known as “looksmaxxing”, which can even involve facial surgery in a bid to increase their sexual “value”.

    The manosphere has an expansive lexicon which is used to incite hatred towards women and fuel rivalry between men. Common terms include:

    • Red pill: TRP, the manosphere’s core philosophy, derived from the Matrix, frames the red pill as an awakening to feminism’s oppression of men. The blue pill represents ignorance, and the black pill, used by incels, as accepting their “terminal” celibacy status.

    • Amog (alpha male of the group), Alpha, Gamma, Omega, Sigma, Sub-5 – These terms categorise and compare men and their social status. While sigma and alpha males or Amogs are considered the top of the hierarchy, the terms gamma, omega, and sub-5 denigrate men perceived to be of a lower status.

    • White Knight, Soyboy: Derogatory terms describe men who are viewed as being subservient to women.

    • Awalt (All women are like that), Foid/Femoid (female humanoid), Becky, Carousel: Terms used to denigrate and dehumanise women.

    Parents should not panic if they hear their children using manosphere terms. They may not fully understand their meanings and may have encountered them innocently. However, changes in how boys talk about women and girls, withdrawal from family and friends, and frequent use of these terms can be an indication that they are being influenced by the manosphere.

    Supporting your child

    Most adolescents will come across manosphere content at some point. A recent survey found that 59% of boys accessed manosphere content through innocent and unrelated searches. This doesn’t necessarily mean that they endorse the misogynistic values spread by these groups.

    Here are some steps you can take to support your child.

    1. Explore online together

    Research commissioned by media regulator Ofcom found that children were more likely to come across harmful content if their parents are less engaged in what they are doing. Watching content that relates to your children’s hobbies, and sending them content you think they would like, can help train algorithms to promote more moderate content and open up an avenue for discussion.

    Engaging online with your child can be a natural way to start conversations about what they are exposed to. It is important that you are not trying to intervene or critique, but rather understand why they enjoy watching certain influencers or content.

    2. Encourage reflection and media literacy

    Research suggests that teaching children to be sceptical about what they see online can inoculate them against mis- and disinformation.

    The most obvious disinformation they are most likely to come across in the manosphere may be in the form of statistics, summaries of “academic” reports, and news articles about instances of female aggression or false rape allegations. They may also come across misleading content in educational or self-help posts, about improving their appearance or how to be successful.

    Ask your children why they trust certain influencers and where they think their friends get their information. These kinds of questions can help them develop their own fact-checking skills without it seeming like a lesson.

    3. Ask open-ended questions

    Asking children about what they consume or what slang they use online can feel cringe. The best way to get around this is to ask simple open-ended questions such as “How do boys in your class talk about girls?” or “Have you ever heard of…?”

    What you hear may be shocking, but approach it with curiosity and without judgment or dismissal to let them know they can share things with you.

    If you are concerned about your child’s behaviour, you can also get support from resources such as Young Minds mental health support, the Center for Countering Digital Hate’s free parents guide or the government’s radicalisation helpline ACT Early. Getting support from government services is not a punishment. It won’t go on a person’s criminal record, but can provide access to governmental services like Prevent.

    Annabel Hoare, PhD Student in Gender-Based Political Violence, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –