You might’ve noticed some physiotherapists advertise they offer treatments for headaches and wondered: would that work?
In fact, there’s a solid body of research showing that physiotherapy treatments can be really helpful for certain types of headache.
Sometimes, however, medical management is also necessary and it’s worth seeing a doctor. Here’s what you need to know.
Cervicogenic headache: when pain travels up your neck
Cervicogenic headache is where pain is referred from the top of the neck (an area known as the upper cervical spine).
Pain is usually one-sided. It generally starts just beneath the skull at the top of the neck, spreading into the back of the head and sometimes into the back of the eye.
Neck pain and headache are often triggered by activities that put strain on the neck, such as holding one posture or position for a long time, or doing repetitive neck movements (such as looking up and down repeatedly).
Unlike in migraine, people experiencing cervicogenic headache don’t usually get nausea or sensitivity to light and sound.
Because this is a musculoskeletal condition of the upper neck, physiotherapy treatments that improve neck function – such as manual therapy, exercise and education – can provideshort- and long-term benefits.
Migraine is a neurological disorder whereby the brain has difficulty processing sensory input.
This can cause episodic attacks of moderate to severe headache, as well as:
sensitivity to light and noise
nausea and
intolerance to physical exertion.
There are many triggers. Everyone’s are different and identifying yours is crucial to self-management of migraine. Medication can also help, so seeing a GP is the first step if you suspect you have migraine.
About 70-80% of people with migraine also have neck pain, commonly just before or at the onset of a migraine attack. This can make people think their neck pain is triggering the migraine.
While this may be true in some people, our research has shown many people with migraine have nothing wrong with their neck despite having neck pain.
In those cases, neck pain is part of migraine and can be a warning (but not a cause or trigger) of an imminent migraine attack. It can signal patients need to take steps to prevent the attack.
Migraine is a neurological disorder whereby the brain has difficulty processing sensory input. Srdjan Randjelovic/Shutterstock
On the other hand, if the person has musculoskeletal neck disorder, physiotherapy neck treatments may help improve their migraine. Musculoskeletal neck disorder is what physiotherapists call typical neck pain caused by, for instance, a sports injury or sleeping in a weird way.
You may have heard of the Watson manual therapy technique being used to treat migraine. It involves applying manual pressure to the upper cervical spine and neck area.
There are currently no peer-reviewed studies looking at how effective this technique is for migraine.
However, recent studies investigating a combination of manual therapy, neck exercises and education tailored to the individual’s circumstances show some small effects in improving the number of migraine attacks and the disabling effects of headache.
Manual therapy and neck exercises can also give short-term pain relief.
However, in some cases the neck can become very sensitive and easily aggravated in migraine. That means inappropriate assessment or treatment could end up triggering a migraine.
Physiotherapy can help with migraine but you first need a comprehensive and skilled physical assessment of the neck by an experienced physiotherapist. It’s crucial to identify if a musculoskeletal neck disorder is present and, if so, which type of neck treatment is needed.
It is also important people with migraine understand how their migraine is triggered, what lifestyle factors contribute to it and when to take the appropriate medications to help manage their migraines.
A trained physiotherapist can provide some of this information and help patients make sense of their condition and recommend the patient see their GP for medication, when appropriate.
What about tension headaches?
Tension type headache is the most common type of headache, characterised by a feeling of “tightness” or “band-like” pain around the head.
Nausea and sensitivity to light and noise are not usually present with this type of headache.
Like migraine, tension type headache is often associated with neck pain and also has different aggravating factors, not all of which are due to the neck.
Tension type headache is often associated with neck pain. staras/Shutterstock
Again, a detailed assessment by a trained physiotherapist is needed to identify if the neck is involved and what type of neck treatment is best.
Physiotherapists can also provide education and advice on aggravating factors and self management.
Seeking help
There are many types and causes of headache. If you suffer frequent headaches or have a new or unusual headache, ask a doctor to investigate.
There is good evidence physiotherapy treatment will improve cervicogenic headache and emerging evidence it might help migraine and tension type headache (alongside usual medical care).
If you are wondering if you have cervicogenic headache or if you have bothersome neck pain associated with headache, ask your doctor to refer you to a skilled physiotherapist trained in headache treatment. A careful assessment can determine if physiotherapy treatment will help.
Zhiqi Liang received funding from the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the Physiotherapy Research Foundation. She is affiliated with the Australian College of Physiotherapists and the Australian Physiotherapy Association.
Julia Treleaven and Lucy Thomas do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Today, President Donald J. Trump signed the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law — a key initiative of First Lady Melania Trump and a landmark step in the fight to protect victims of digital exploitation.
The signing of this critical bill received bipartisan praise on Capitol Hill and beyond:
Sen. Ted Cruz: “The TAKE IT DOWN ACT is an historic win for victims of revenge porn and deepfake image abuse. Predators who weaponize new technology to post this exploitative filth will now rightfully face criminal consequences, and Big Tech will no longer be allowed to turn a blind eye to the spread of this vile material. This day stands as a powerful testament to the bravery and dedication of Elliston Berry, Francesca Mani, Breeze Liu, and Brandon Guffey, whose relentless advocacy made this law possible. I am deeply grateful to my legislative partners, particularly Sen. Amy Klobuchar and First Lady Melania Trump, for their collaboration in advancing this critical legislation to protect every American’s privacy and dignity online.”
Sen. Amy Klobuchar: “Big news: my bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act w/Sen. Cruz was signed into law by the President today. It protects victims of online abuse and set some rules of the road for social media and AI. Thank you to the First Lady for her support and to the advocates who made this possible.”
Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar: “Before this law, victims were ignored. Schools couldn’t act, police had no tools, and Big Tech looked away. With TAKE IT DOWN, that changes. Platforms must respond — and predators will face justice. Now, victims have the power and the law behind them.”
X CEO Linda Yaccarino: “Honored to be at the @WhiteHouse today as @POTUS signed the Take It Down Act. Grateful to @FLOTUS for her dedication to ensuring safety. @X will continue to work alongside @SenTedCruz @MarshaBlackburn @RepNancyMace and @NCMEC to do everything possible to make the internet safer, especially for children.”
South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson: “No one should have to live in fear of their most private moments being weaponized against them. Revenge porn is a cruel and deeply violating crime, and for too long, the law has lagged behind the technology. Today, with President Trump’s leadership, we’re now bringing that fight to the national stage, by standing up for survivors, holding predators accountable, and making it absolutely clear: digital abuse is real abuse, and it will be met with real consequences.”
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: “Today, @NCMEC_CEO, Michelle DeLaune and NCMEC’s Chief Legal Officer, Yiota Souras attended the TAKE IT DOWN Act bill signing ceremony at the White House. We’re grateful for @POTUS and @FLOTUS prioritizing this critical legislation and shining a light on child exploitation. This groundbreaking new law closes a dangerous gap by targeting the distribution of both real and digitally altered exploitative content involving children – content that may fall outside existing CSAM definitions – and requires social media platforms to take this imagery down. As the Congressionally designated national clearinghouse on missing and exploited children issues, we will continue to work with Congress and the Administration to identify evolving threats in child sexual exploitation and look forward to continuing our work together to protect children online.”
National Organization for Women President Christian F. Nunes: “Today, President Donald Trump signed into law the Take It Down Act—the first bipartisan legislation that zeroes in on one of the most pernicious threats to women’s health and safety—the theft of our bodily autonomy through deepfake images used to harass and exploit women and girls … Today’s signing shows how much can be done when we get out of the silos that separate us from issue to issue and work together on the values and common goals that unite us despite those differences. When it comes to protecting women and girls from online abuse, this work is just beginning.”
Sen. Marsha Blackburn: “I was pleased to be at the White House to witness the signing of The Take It Down Act, which will criminalize the distribution of nonconsensual intimate imagery. I will be working to get the Kids Online Safety Act to President Trump’s desk next to hold Big Tech accountable for failing to protect innocent children from online harms.”
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito: “I am proud to be an original cosponsor on the TAKE IT DOWN Act. This important legislation will protect victims of digital exploitation by making non-consensual, explicit images shared online against the law. Thank you to @FLOTUS for your work on this issue and for @POTUS signing it into law today.”
Sen. John Cornyn: “I was honored to join @POTUS + @FLOTUS at the @WhiteHouse today for the signing of the TAKE IT DOWN Act. This bill will help punish predators & protect kids from exploitation by requiring online platforms to remove explicit images, including AI generated deepfakes, within 48 hours. Happy to see this commonsense bill signed into law!”
Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto: “I’m glad Pres. Trump signed our bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act today. We’ve seen how technology can deliver incredible innovations but there have to be guardrails to keep people safe. That’s why I supported this bill to protect and empower victims of real and deepfake revenge porn.”
Sen. Roger Wicker: “The U.S. must lead in AI innovation and accountability. Today, President Trump signed the Take It Down Act. This new law protects people from AI deepfakes which often target families and children.”
Sen. Todd Young: “Glad to see @POTUS sign our TAKE IT DOWN Act into law today to protect victims—especially young women and children—from harmful deepfakes.”
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer: “Glad to see @POTUS sign the Take It Down Act into law. Deepfake sexual exploitation has sadly become more common with technological advancements. Thankfully, this law will hold perpetrators accountable and protect the victims of these depraved crimes.”
House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain: “In America, we will not tolerate the exploitation of our children. This law will protect our children and families from becoming targets of digital predators. I’m proud to have stood alongside President Trump when he signed this important legislation into law. I look forward to continuing to support his administration and the First Lady’s efforts to hold those who create harmful content accountable, ensure that platforms take responsibility, and keep our children safe in the digital age.”
Rep. Rick Allen: “✅ SIGNED INTO LAW: The Take It Down Act As a grandfather of 14, I was proud to support this bill in @HouseCommerce and on the House floor. Thank you to @FLOTUS for your tireless work to create a safer digital future and protect our kids from online exploitation.”
Rep. Vern Buchanan: “President Trump has signed the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law, which protects children and victims of revenge porn from online exploitation. I was proud to help introduce this bill and vote for its passage in support of those who have been subject to this horrific violation.”
Rep. Kat Cammack: “Glad to support the Take It Down Act and to see it signed into law today by @POTUS.”
Rep. Ben Cline: “President Trump just signed the bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act into law—a major step toward removing non-consensual AI-generated deepfakes on social media. Grateful for @FLOTUS’s leadership in getting this across the finish line and protecting every American from these harmful images.”
Rep. Debbie Dingell: “The TAKE IT DOWN ACT is now law. This is a huge win for women and children across the country. Grateful for my partners in the House and Senate who helped get this bill across the finish line and passed into law.”
Rep. Randy Feenstra: “Thank you to President Trump for signing the TAKE IT DOWN Act to deliver the harshest punishment possible for criminals who take advantage of our kids.”
Rep. Laura Gillen: “I was proud to vote for the bipartisan Take It Down Act and glad to see it signed into law today. No one should have to endure such a violation of privacy without protection. #TakeItDown”
Rep. Morgan Griffith: “For me, voting for the Take It Down Act was easy. This commonsense bill protects our kids from nonconsensual online distribution of sexually explicit images.”
Rep. Brett Guthrie: “I want to thank President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for their steadfast leadership, as well as the millions of Americans affected by online exploitation, for their courage. As the Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, I am proud that we delivered on our commitment to advance this important legislation to protect victims of online exploitation. I want to honor Eli Heacock, and express my gratitude to his mom, Shannon Cronister-Heacock, for having the courage to share her son’s devastating story. The scourge of sexual exploitation online has upended the lives of innocent victims all across our country. The TAKE IT DOWN Act is an important step forward in protecting kids from new, 21st century threats to their well-being. This bill would not have been possible without the bravery of families like the Heacocks, and the TAKE IT DOWN Act works to ensure tragedies like this never happen again.”
Rep. Pat Harrigan: “A few weeks ago, I voted for the TAKE IT DOWN ACT in the House. Today, it’s the law! Justice is here for the victims, and a reckoning is coming for those who thought they could get away with preying on the vulnerable.”
Rep. Diana Harshbarger: “The Take It Down Act is a crucial step in protecting our children from predatory behavior online. I was proud to support this important legislation!”
Rep. Kevin Hern: “I’m honored to be at the @WhiteHouse today to witness @POTUS sign the Take It Down Act into law! Earlier this year, @FLOTUS came to Capitol Hill for a roundtable that I was grateful to be a part of. We heard directly from teenagers whose lives had been destroyed by malicious AI-generated pornographic images shared on social media. This legislation will require social media sites to act as quickly as possible to remove such images from their platforms. The First Lady has been an incredible advocate for this legislation, helping to garner bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. Congratulations!”
Rep. Young Kim: “Good news! The TAKE IT DOWN Act is now the law of the land to protect kids from online exploitation. I was proud to vote in favor of this historic, bipartisan bill on the House floor.”
Rep. Barry Loudermilk: “Today, @POTUS signed the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law. As AI advances, so do the risks involved with it. This legislation will help children and their families to remove explicit or defamatory images posted online. In the digital age, privacy and security are vital and this is a major step.”
Rep. Nancy Mace: “We’re at the @WhiteHouse as the Take It Down Act is signed into law. Thank you, President Trump. With the rise of AI and deepfake a*use, women and children have been left vulnerable for too long. The Take It Down Act finally gives victims real protection, and makes exploitation a crime, not a loophole.”
Rep. Ryan Mackenzie: “Proud to attend today’s signing of the Take it Down Act. As a Pennsylvania State Representative, I helped to lead efforts to remove harmful deepfake images. Now, this law takes that fight nationwide and protects young people throughout our nation from AI-generated online exploitation.”
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis: “Today @POTUS signed the Take It Down Act, bipartisan legislation I co-sponsored, into law! Together we’re protecting women (and men) from becoming victims of digital exploitation.”
Rep. August Pfluger: “I just witnessed @POTUS sign the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law! This is a major step forward in protecting innocent victims and restoring online accountability, and I was proud to co-lead this legislation alongside @RepMariaSalazar.”
Rep. Roger Williams: “Today @POTUS signed the bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act into law. This law will hold abusers accountable and empower victims of online abuse to have deepfake content or explicit material shared without their consent removed. We will not tolerate the exploitation of our children.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi: “I was proud to stand with @POTUS as he signed the Take It Down Act. Thank you @FLOTUS for your work in safeguarding children from deepfake exploitation.”
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “As @FLOTUS’ Take it Down Act is signed into law, @POTUS highlights $25 million to support foster youth aging out of the foster care system. I am proud to partner with the First Lady to provide young adults with the assistance and foundation they need to transform their lives.”
House Republican Conference: “The Take It Down Act was signed into LAW by @POTUS! Congratulations to @FLOTUS, @RepMariaSalazar, and Chairman @RepGuthrie. Thank you for leading this effort to protect children from exploitation online.”
Republican Study Committee: “This is a huge win. The TAKE IT DOWN Act is critical to protecting children from non-consensual deepfakes online and holds AI abusers accountable. Thank you, President Trump!”
Department of Homeland Security: “Thank you @POTUS Trump for continuing to prioritize America’s children by signing into law the “Take It Down Act,” to protect children from extortion. DHS is at the forefront fighting predators who try to harm and exploit our children. Make America Safe Again!”
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 20, 2025.
Can you treat headaches with physiotherapy? Here’s what the research says Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zhiqi Liang, Lecturer in Physiotherapy, The University of Queensland BaanTaksinStudio/Shutterstock You might’ve noticed some physiotherapists advertise they offer treatments for headaches and wondered: would that work? In fact, there’s a solid body of research showing that physiotherapy treatments can be really helpful for certain types of headache.
NZ joins call for Israel to allow full resumption of aid to Gaza New Zealand has joined 22 other countries and the European Union in calling for Israel to allow a full resumption of aid into Gaza immediately. The partners also said Israel must enable the United Nations and humanitarian organisations to work independently and impartially “to save lives, reduce suffering, and maintain dignity.” Israel imposed a blockade
Can cats drink milk? Despite the stereotypes, it’s actually a bad idea Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Henning, PhD Candidate in Feline Behaviour, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide Shawn Rain/Unsplash Cats have a long history with humans, going back more than 9,000 years. Attracted to human settlements by the rodents that plagued (sometimes literally) our ancestors, cats ingratiated themselves
Boredom gets a bad rap. But science says it can actually be good for us Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Kennedy, Youth Mental Health Researcher, University of the Sunshine Coast We have all experienced boredom – that feeling of waning interest or decreased mental stimulation. Eventually we lose focus, we disengage. Time seems to pass slowly, and we may even start to feel restless. Whether it
15 years ago, I urged the AFL to launch a mental health round. Now it’s time for action Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pat McGorry, Professor of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne The death of former AFL footballer Adam Selwood, less than four months after the death by suicide of his twin Troy, is an unfathomable tragedy for the Selwood family. The devastating news has sent shockwaves through the AFL
Does drawing on memory help us solve problems? Our experiment gave some surprising answers Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Macaskill, Senior Lecturer in Experimental Psychology, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Getty Images Conventional wisdom suggests memories of past experiences can help us navigate problems in the present. For example, if a friend told you they were having a disagreement with their partner,
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The federal government wants to boost productivity. Science can help Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Deanna D’Alessandro, Professor & Director, Net Zero Institute, University of Sydney Daniel Sone/National Cancer Institute In the wake of Labor’s resounding victory in Australia’s federal election earlier this month, there has been much talk about flailing productivity in Australia. In fact, last week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
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‘No pain, no gain’: why some primary students are following intense study routines Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christina Ho, Associate professor in Social and Political Sciences, University of Technology Sydney MNStudio/ Shutterstock Every year, thousands of New South Wales students sit a test to determine places for highly sought-after selective high schools. These are academically selective public schools often associated with high Year 12
NZ Budget 2025: anything less than a 5% increase in health funding amounts to merely standing still Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Tenbensel, Professor of Health Policy, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Health Minister Simeon Brown. Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images Minister of Health Simeon Brown claimed earlier this year that health funding in New Zealand has never been higher and that suggestions of underfunding are “fake news”. On
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Environmentalists question Henry Puna’s role in deep sea mining firm By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist Environmentalists in the Cook Islands have criticised former Prime Minister and Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) head Henry Puna for joining the board of a deep sea mining company. Puna, who finished his term as PIF secretary-general in May last year, played a pivotal part in the creation of multi-use
Climate scientists are trusted globally, just not as much as other scientists – here’s why Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Omid Ghasemi, Research Associate in Behavioural Science at the Institute for Climate Risk & Response, UNSW Sydney I. Noyan Yilmaz, Shutterstock Societies increasingly rely on scientists to guide decisions in times of uncertainty, from pandemic outbreaks to the rise of artificial intelligence. Addressing climate change is no
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You might’ve noticed some physiotherapists advertise they offer treatments for headaches and wondered: would that work?
In fact, there’s a solid body of research showing that physiotherapy treatments can be really helpful for certain types of headache.
Sometimes, however, medical management is also necessary and it’s worth seeing a doctor. Here’s what you need to know.
Cervicogenic headache: when pain travels up your neck
Cervicogenic headache is where pain is referred from the top of the neck (an area known as the upper cervical spine).
Pain is usually one-sided. It generally starts just beneath the skull at the top of the neck, spreading into the back of the head and sometimes into the back of the eye.
Neck pain and headache are often triggered by activities that put strain on the neck, such as holding one posture or position for a long time, or doing repetitive neck movements (such as looking up and down repeatedly).
Unlike in migraine, people experiencing cervicogenic headache don’t usually get nausea or sensitivity to light and sound.
Because this is a musculoskeletal condition of the upper neck, physiotherapy treatments that improve neck function – such as manual therapy, exercise and education – can provideshort- and long-term benefits.
Migraine is a neurological disorder whereby the brain has difficulty processing sensory input.
This can cause episodic attacks of moderate to severe headache, as well as:
sensitivity to light and noise
nausea and
intolerance to physical exertion.
There are many triggers. Everyone’s are different and identifying yours is crucial to self-management of migraine. Medication can also help, so seeing a GP is the first step if you suspect you have migraine.
About 70-80% of people with migraine also have neck pain, commonly just before or at the onset of a migraine attack. This can make people think their neck pain is triggering the migraine.
While this may be true in some people, our research has shown many people with migraine have nothing wrong with their neck despite having neck pain.
In those cases, neck pain is part of migraine and can be a warning (but not a cause or trigger) of an imminent migraine attack. It can signal patients need to take steps to prevent the attack.
Migraine is a neurological disorder whereby the brain has difficulty processing sensory input. Srdjan Randjelovic/Shutterstock
On the other hand, if the person has musculoskeletal neck disorder, physiotherapy neck treatments may help improve their migraine. Musculoskeletal neck disorder is what physiotherapists call typical neck pain caused by, for instance, a sports injury or sleeping in a weird way.
You may have heard of the Watson manual therapy technique being used to treat migraine. It involves applying manual pressure to the upper cervical spine and neck area.
There are currently no peer-reviewed studies looking at how effective this technique is for migraine.
However, recent studies investigating a combination of manual therapy, neck exercises and education tailored to the individual’s circumstances show some small effects in improving the number of migraine attacks and the disabling effects of headache.
Manual therapy and neck exercises can also give short-term pain relief.
However, in some cases the neck can become very sensitive and easily aggravated in migraine. That means inappropriate assessment or treatment could end up triggering a migraine.
Physiotherapy can help with migraine but you first need a comprehensive and skilled physical assessment of the neck by an experienced physiotherapist. It’s crucial to identify if a musculoskeletal neck disorder is present and, if so, which type of neck treatment is needed.
It is also important people with migraine understand how their migraine is triggered, what lifestyle factors contribute to it and when to take the appropriate medications to help manage their migraines.
A trained physiotherapist can provide some of this information and help patients make sense of their condition and recommend the patient see their GP for medication, when appropriate.
What about tension headaches?
Tension type headache is the most common type of headache, characterised by a feeling of “tightness” or “band-like” pain around the head.
Nausea and sensitivity to light and noise are not usually present with this type of headache.
Like migraine, tension type headache is often associated with neck pain and also has different aggravating factors, not all of which are due to the neck.
Tension type headache is often associated with neck pain. staras/Shutterstock
Again, a detailed assessment by a trained physiotherapist is needed to identify if the neck is involved and what type of neck treatment is best.
Physiotherapists can also provide education and advice on aggravating factors and self management.
Seeking help
There are many types and causes of headache. If you suffer frequent headaches or have a new or unusual headache, ask a doctor to investigate.
There is good evidence physiotherapy treatment will improve cervicogenic headache and emerging evidence it might help migraine and tension type headache (alongside usual medical care).
If you are wondering if you have cervicogenic headache or if you have bothersome neck pain associated with headache, ask your doctor to refer you to a skilled physiotherapist trained in headache treatment. A careful assessment can determine if physiotherapy treatment will help.
Zhiqi Liang received funding from the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the Physiotherapy Research Foundation. She is affiliated with the Australian College of Physiotherapists and the Australian Physiotherapy Association.
Julia Treleaven and Lucy Thomas do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Consumers select blind boxes at a Pop Mart store in Xidan Joy City, a shopping mall in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
For Chen Qiwei, a financial analyst from the southern metropolis of Shenzhen, most of her precious leisure time after long, grueling workdays is spent with her daughter in various Pop Mart stores, a popular toy chain known for fueling the blind box craze and beloved for its signature Labubu toy line.
“My daughter and I love wandering through Pop Mart, digging through those fun blind boxes and picking out whatever catches our eye. It’s our happy little escape,” Chen said.
“A monthly splurge of a couple thousand yuan (about 139 to 278 U.S. dollars) on these collectibles feels like a worthwhile investment in our emotional well-being,” she added, having just scored a mint-condition Labubu doll — at a hefty markup — on the secondhand marketplace app Xianyu.
Chen and her daughter are part of the growing wave of Chinese consumers powering the rise of the “Guzi” economy, a catchall term derived from a phonetic pun on the word “goods” in Chinese that refers to spin-off merchandise linked to the worlds of anime, music and gaming.
Walk into any urban mall across China today, one will discover that “Guzi” has become increasingly accessible as there is no shortage of stores selling everything from themed collectibles to quirky stress-relief plush toys and whimsically-named desk plants.
According to Aiqicha, a Chinese corporate information search engine, over 10,000 enterprises specialized in “stress relief” have popped up over the past five years, with more than a third registered in the past year.
For many, buying “Guzi” is much more than a simple transaction. It is an act steeped in emotional resonance, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends materialistic fulfillment or fandom.
“These items make me feel connected to a community,” said a middle school student surnamed Wu from Guilin, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, as he clutched a long-coveted limited-edition anime figurine from a recent Comic Con. “The thrill of scoring one of these is far greater than acing a school test.”
In recent years, the “Guzi” economy has risen to the forefront of the consumer market, marking a profound shift in how a new generation of buyers chooses to spend, not just on products, but on passion and identity.
According to a 2024 report by market research firm iiMedia Research, the market value for “Guzi” in China skyrocketed with a whopping 40.63 percent annual growth in 2024, reaching 168.9 billion yuan, and it is projected to continue on its high-growth trajectory, hitting 300 billion yuan in 2029.
Fueled by a quest for comfort, connection and sometimes even emotional fulfillment, young Chinese are driving up the demand for products and services that are instrumental to smooth the rough edges of modern life.
“These products may seem jejune and odd in the eyes of the older generation,” said Dang Qiong, associate professor of journalism at Guangxi University. “But they often serve a deeper and more meaningful purpose, offering quick emotional resets in a high-pressure society, be it a young professional scrambling his way up the greasy pole or a student trying to work his way into a good college.”
Some experts attribute this emerging consumer trend to the rise of “kidulting,” a cultural phenomenon in which adults embrace playful, youthful behaviors and products as part of their emotional support.
Dang sees the idea of adults seeking experiences by acting like children as a healthy coping mechanism for an increasing number of people, especially Gen Z and millennials, navigating economic uncertainties and societal pressures.
“Buying cute and playful stuff or engaging with whimsical behaviors helps build up my emotional resilience,” said Li Xin, a middle school teacher from Nanning, capital of Guangxi. “It’s a welcoming break from the repetitive and often mundane daily routine and an effective way to reclaim joy.”
As the physical products continue to gain traction, digital solutions have also been playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the burgeoning “Guzi” economy.
AI-powered virtual companions, mostly digital platforms, are able to engage with users with empathetic responses and help process their emotions in real time, said Zhang Yuqiang, a founder of a Guangxi-based AI service company.
The use of advanced algorithms to offer customized interactions allows such virtual “companions” to act as a digital “tree hole,” a Chinese internet buzzword for a safe space to relax and confide, for those who may feel cagey about sharing their vulnerabilities with friends or family, Zhang said.
According to tech consultancy analysis, China’s AI companionship market is estimated to scale from the current size of over 3.86 billion yuan to more than 59.5 billion yuan in 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 148.74 percent.
However, some experts have cautioned against over-reliance on AI for emotional needs and connections.
While forming a relationship with AI is likely to become commonplace soon, noted Zeng Runxi, vice dean of the school of journalism at Chongqing University. “But the users of such products should always maintain their cognitive and emotional autonomy, even when engaging with AI.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
At a new energy vehicle industrial park in the city of Xuzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, a large digital screen flashes real-time data on solar power generation and carbon dioxide reduction.
Sprawling across the park’s rooftops are 52,000 square meters of photovoltaic panels, supported by an energy storage system. Together, they form a self-sufficient microgrid that generates nearly 7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually — enough to power the entire park.
“This clean energy solution replaces 2,800 tonnes of coal consumption while cutting carbon emissions by about 7,500 tonnes every year,” said Zhang Dong, a technician at the State Grid Xuzhou Power Supply Company, noting that companies in the park could save over 20 percent on energy costs.
Zhang added that demand for microgrid projects is surging in industrial parks across China, as companies see them as a way to help cut costs and transition toward greener growth.
A microgrid is a localized power network typically composed of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, alongside energy storage systems. These systems can operate independently or in sync with the main power grid, making them flexible, environmentally friendly and stable.
China has channeled substantial investment into microgrids. According to the action plan on accelerating the construction of new power systems, local governments are encouraged to build smart microgrid projects that cater to regional needs. The country’s 14th five-year plan for modern energy systems also underscores the importance of microgrid construction.
More than 300 green microgrid projects are currently operational or under construction in the industrial sector, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
One of the leaders in the construction boom is the city of Changzhou in Jiangsu, both a manufacturing hub and a major new energy base. It has already launched nearly 40 microgrid projects and plans to increase the number to 300 by the end of 2027.
“The microgrid expansion is both a result and a driver of China’s energy transformation,” said Zhang. “The falling costs of wind and solar power have made it feasible, while the decentralized energy model enhances grid stability and ensures cleaner power is available where it’s needed most.”
China is steadily advancing toward its dual carbon goals of peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. In the first quarter of 2025, newly installed wind and solar power capacity reached 74.33 million kilowatts, bringing the cumulative installed capacity to 1.482 billion kilowatts, surpassing coal-fired capacity for the first time, according to the National Energy Administration.
In many densely populated Chinese cities like Suzhou in Jiangsu, where energy demand is high but land is scarce, centralized solar farms are not a viable option. Instead, distributed solar generation coupled with smart microgrids has emerged as the optimal approach to sustainable urban development.
“Microgrids offer tremendous advantages in remote islands, deserts and areas where grid coverage is limited or electricity demand is high,” said Chen Hao, an associate professor at Renmin University of China.
Suzhou’s microgrid system can now regulate over 20,000 kilowatts daily. During peak demand periods, these networks can achieve short-term self-balancing, supplying power to more than 5,000 households.
Microgrids are also making energy management smarter. In many highway service areas across China, prime locations for microgrid deployment, AI-powered systems are used to optimize the real-time allocation of clean energy for electric vehicle charging based on traffic volume and weather conditions.
A highway service area in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu Province, has recently launched a smart microgrid featuring solar power, energy storage, fast-charging stations, and battery-swap infrastructure for light trucks. The system can dynamically allocate green electricity to meet the demand of vehicle charging services.
“After years of development, microgrids are going beyond technological research and development to commercial applications,” said Tang Xisheng, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
“We can expect to see their footprint expand across more industrial parks, residential communities, and rural regions in the future,” Tang added.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Henning, PhD Candidate in Feline Behaviour, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide
Cats have a long history with humans, going back more than 9,000 years. Attracted to human settlements by the rodents that plagued (sometimes literally) our ancestors, cats ingratiated themselves as useful mousers and slowly domesticated themselves.
Farmers began to employ them as pest controllers. It was through this arrangement that cats and milk first became acquainted.
Before the commercialisation of pet food, cats were mostly fed scraps from the family table. Not much was known about their nutritional needs. In his 1877 book on cats, Scottish doctor Gordon Stables insisted cats need two bowls – “one for water and the other for milk” – and suggested porridge and milk as an excellent feline breakfast.
From these origins, cats and milk became further embedded in the collective zeitgeist through depictions of milk-loving cats in art, books, movies and cartoons. There’s even the classic trope of the scruffy street cat being rescued from the rain to enjoy a saucer of milk from a kindly stranger.
While it’s not surprising that cats and milk have persisted as an unquestioned combination, research now tells us cats shouldn’t be drinking milk at all.
Like all mammals, cats begin life drinking milk from their mother. But past kittenhood, milk is a completely unnecessary part of a cat’s diet.
After weaning (around 6–12 weeks of age), kittens stop producing the enzyme lactase, required to digest lactose in milk. For the vast majority of cats, this means they are lactose intolerant.
However, just like in humans, the level of intolerance varies for each individual based on how much of the enzyme their body naturally produces.
Don’t rush to give your kitten milk, though. Just because kittens can digest lactose doesn’t mean they should be drinking cow’s milk. Cats are much smaller animals than cows and, fittingly, the amount of lactose in the milk of mother cats is much lower than in cow’s milk. It’s best to let them drink from their mother or to get them a kitten-appropriate cat formula.
Lactose intolerance isn’t the only reason not to give your cats milk. Though rare, cats can also develop an allergy to milk or dairy.
Milk from mother cats is different to cow’s milk, which is not appropriate for kittens to drink. Hadifa Art/Shutterstock
What happens to cats who drink milk?
Lactose is a type of sugar. When it can’t be broken down to be absorbed into the bloodstream, lactose travels through the intestines to the colon where the bacteria inside the body ferment it.
This fermentation breaks lactose down into acids and gases which cause unpleasant symptoms, including the passing of excessive gas, bloating, constipation, abdominal pain and occasionally nausea and vomiting. In cats, the most common symptom observed is diarrhoea.
Chronic or persistent diarrhoea can cause further complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and malnutrition. In some cases, it can even be life threatening.
Cats who consume milk or dairy regularly as part of their diet are at increased risk of these health complications.
When farm mousers are ‘paid’ in milk, their lactose intolerance can cause diarrhoea and even serious health complications. Aleksandr Lupin/Shutterstock
If milk is so bad for cats, why do they love it?
We often like things that are bad for us. But to answer this question, we first have to remember cow’s milk is intended for feeding and growing a baby cow.
To achieve this feat, it contains an assortment of proteins and fats that are highly palatable, especially to cats. Cats need high levels of protein and fat for optimal health and daily functioning.
Cow’s milk, in particular, is also high in casein, a protein that is broken down by the body into alpha-casozepine. In some studies, it’s been associated with a calming effect in cats. While this wouldn’t initially make a cat want to drink milk, it may create a comforting association with milk over time.
If you want to treat your cat, give them species appropriate foods, not cow’s milk or food meant for humans. Hamza Yaich/Pexels
Can I give milk sometimes as a treat? What about milk alternatives?
The short answer is: no.
Dairy is not a natural part of cats’ diet. While they may like the taste, milk is likely to cause your furry friend discomfort and health issues, so it’s best to avoid entirely.
And if you’re thinking your cat is one of the lucky few that isn’t lactose intolerant, think again. Cats are very good at hiding discomfort because, in the wild, showing weakness would make them a target for predators.
If you absolutely must, opt for lactose-free milk or milk formulated specifically for cats, and keep it as a very occasional treat.
While it won’t upset their stomachs in the same way as regular cow’s milk, it still won’t offer your cat any nutritional benefit.
As for milk alternatives like oat, soy or almond milk? Any unusual additions to your cat’s diet are likely to cause digestive upset, so it’s best to avoid these as well.
The bottom line? Don’t give your cat milk. They don’t need it, they probably can’t digest it and it’s likely to cause more pain than it’s worth.
Julia Henning 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.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Xiang Haoyu, a visiting fellow at the Department of Asia-Pacific Studies at the China Institute of International Studies, believes that tariff barriers and protectionism pose severe challenges to Asia’s economic growth. However, with its strong development resilience and consensus on unity and cooperation, the Asian region is poised to play a key role in the new round of reconstruction of the global economic order and continue to provide strong incentives for the stable growth of the world economy.
According to a report by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), in 2024, the global economy of Asia will account for 49%, and its contribution to the world economy will reach 60%. Not only does Asia account for 53% of the total value added of world GDP in the manufacturing sector, Asia is also increasingly dominant in the high-tech sector. In the future, Asia is expected to continue to play a driving role in global economic growth through the expansion of the intra-regional market, industrial upgrading, technological innovation, and regional economic integration.
In the international community’s view, Asia’s growth is of utmost importance to global economic stability. In terms of the current situation, it should be noted that Asia’s economy remains highly resilient and confident in many aspects.
Above all, Asia’s dominance in high technology and manufacturing is a key advantage in driving the global economy. In recent years, Asian technological innovations in artificial intelligence, 5G communications, and electric vehicles have injected great vitality into the global economy. Facing tariff blackmail from the US, Asia’s manufacturing supply chain, relying on its own continuity and exceptionalism, is better able to withstand the disruption of foreign policy changes, helping the region maintain its status as a global manufacturing hub.
Second, the deepening of regional economic integration in Asia has created strong domestic momentum. The further implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is expected to increase bilateral trade between ASEAN countries and China by US$19 billion in 2025. In particular, trade in services and the digital economy will become new growth points, helping to accelerate the transformation and upgrading of the Asian economy.
Third, protectionism and economic persecution by the United States contribute to the implementation of the strategy of diversification of Asian exports. The main economic entities of Asia are expanding the markets of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, etc., reducing their dependence on the U.S. market and at the same time increasing their capabilities in the field of global economic integration. Most transnational corporations with comprehensive development in Asia are also adapting to changes, overcoming risks and rebuilding their own global development strategies. The vast majority of them will not only not leave Asia, but will also strive for deeper integration with the local Asian market, stimulating domestic demand in Asia and accelerating their global deployment.
Fourth, Asia’s intra-regional market potential will continue to be stimulated, which will help achieve more balanced growth. With Asia’s total population exceeding 4 billion, huge domestic demand will support sustainable economic growth.
Faced with a highly uncertain external environment, Asian countries are reaching new agreements, agreeing that only unity and cooperation can effectively address external challenges.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)
Rep. Cuellar Announces Over $116 Million in Projected Federal Funding for South Texas Schools
Washington, DC | Matthew Landini, DC Press Secretary, matt@mail.house.gov, May 19, 2025
Laredo, TX – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), announced over $116 million in preliminary federal education funding for public schools across South Texas. The projected investments, part of the latest round of federal support for local school districts, will help ensure students in low-income communities have the tools and resources they need to succeed.
“These are your tax dollars at work, coming back home to help our kids,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This funding will support teachers, reduce class sizes, and strengthen early education programs across South Texas. I’m proud to have secured these federal investments that will uplift our classrooms and empower the next generation of Texas leaders.”
The $116,935,226 in projected funding supports public school districts in Atascosa, Bexar, Duval, Guadalupe, Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb, Zapata, and McMullen counties. Please see below for a county-by-county breakdown of projected education funding in TX-28:
Atascosa County – $2,973,154
Jourdanton ISD – $273,334
Pleasanton ISD – $1,019,457
Lytle ISD – $694,019
Charlotte ISD – $280,741
Poteet ISD – $705,603
Bexar County – $59,076,343
Judson ISD – $9,110,821
San Antonio ISD – $37,388,941
Randolph Field ISD – $13,752
Harlandale ISD – $6,342,337
Southside ISD – $3,025,616
East Central ISD – $3,194,876
Duval County – $1,879,708
Benavides ISD – $237,851
Freer ISD – $546,356
Ramirez CSD – $25,070
San Diego ISD – $1,070,431
Guadalupe County – $1,911,415
Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD – $1,721,632
Marion ISD – $189,783
Jim Hogg County – $637,172
Jim Hogg County ISD – $637,172
Starr County – $10,390,199
Rio Grande City Grulla ISD – $5,919,492
Roma ISD – $4,322,136
San Isidro ISD – $148,571
Webb County – $37,021,846
Laredo ISD – $15,471,036
United ISD – $21,384,392
Webb Consolidated ISD – $166,418
Zapata County – $3,020,919
Zapata County ISD – $3,020,919
McMullen County – $24,470
McMullen County ISD – $24,470
Total: $116,935,226
These federal funds are part of the Title I, Part A Grants to Local Educational Agencies program, which directs resources to school districts serving high numbers of students from low-income families. The funding supports everything from additional teachers and academic specialists to technology upgrades and after-school programs.
Final dollar amounts will be released this summer and formal grants will be awarded starting July 1, 2025. Congressman Cuellar will continue working to maximize federal support for South Texas schools as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.
###
SOLO PARA FINES DE PLANIFICACIÓN Lunes, 19 de mayo de 2025
Fernanda Nunez-Cazares, Secretaria de Prensa del Distrito fernanda.nunez-cazares@mail.house.gov Cell: (619) 209-1834
Matthew Landini, Secretaria de Prensa del DC matt@mail.house.gov Cell: (216) 952-8227
El Congresista Cuellar Anuncia Más de $116 Millones en Financiamiento Federal Proyectado para las Escuelas del Sur de Texas
Laredo, TX – Hoy, el congresista Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), anunció más de $116 millones en fondos federales preliminares para la educación de las escuelas públicas en el sur de Texas. Las inversiones previstas, parte de la última ronda de apoyo federal para los distritos escolares locales, ayudará a asegurar que los estudiantes en las comunidades de bajos ingresos tienen las herramientas y recursos que necesitan para tener éxito.
“Estos son los dólares de sus impuestos en el trabajando, volviendo a casa para ayudar a nuestros hijos”, dijo el congresista Cuellar. “Esta financiación apoyará a los maestros, reducir el tamaño de las clases, y fortalecer los programas de educación temprana en el sur de Texas. Estoy orgulloso de haber asegurado estas inversiones federales que elevarán nuestras aulas y capacitarán a la próxima generación de líderes de Texas.”
Los $116,935,226 en fondos proyectados apoyan a los distritos escolares públicos de los condados de Atascosa, Bexar, Duval, Guadalupe, Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb, Zapata y McMullen. Por favor, vea a continuación un desglose por condado de la financiación de la educación proyectada en TX-28:
Condado de Atascosa – $2,973,154
Jourdanton ISD – $273,334
Pleasanton ISD – $1,019,457
Lytle ISD – $694,019
Charlotte ISD – $280,741
Poteet ISD – $705,603
Condado de Bexar – $59,076,343
Judson ISD – $9,110,821
San Antonio ISD – $37,388,941
Randolph Field ISD – $13,752
Harlandale ISD – $6,342,337
Southside ISD – $3,025,616
East Central ISD – $3,194,876
Condado de Duval – $1,879,708
Benavides ISD – $237,851
Freer ISD – $546,356
Ramirez CSD – $25,070
San Diego ISD – $1,070,431
Condado de Guadalupe – $1,911,415
Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD – $1,721,632
Marion ISD – $189,783
Condado de Jim Hogg – $637,172
Jim Hogg County ISD – $637,172
Condado de Starr – $10,390,199
Rio Grande City Grulla ISD – $5,919,492
Roma ISD – $4,322,136
San Isidro ISD – $148,571
Condado de Webb – $37,021,846
Laredo ISD – $15,471,036
United ISD – $21,384,392
Webb Consolidated ISD – $166,418
Condado de Zapata – $3,020,919
Zapata County ISD – $3,020,919
Condado de McMullen – $24,470
McMullen County ISD – $24,470
En total: $116,935,226
Estos fondos federales forman parte del programa de Subvenciones del Título I, Parte A, a las Agencias Educativas Locales, que destina recursos a los distritos escolares que atienden a un elevado número de estudiantes de familias con bajos ingresos. La financiación se destina a todo tipo de actividades, desde profesores adicionales y especialistas académicos hasta mejoras tecnológicas y programas extraescolares.
Los montos finales en dólares se darán a conocer este verano y las subvenciones formales se otorgarán a partir del 1 de julio de 2025. El congresista Cuellar seguirá trabajando para maximizar el apoyo federal para las escuelas del sur de Texas como miembro principal del Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Attendees chat during the 6th European Political Community (EPC) Summit in Tirana, Albania, May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Amid rising political and economic pressures, the sixth summit of the European Political Community (EPC) concluded in Tirana on Friday with few substantive results.
Themed “New Europe in a new world: unity – cooperation – joint action,” the summit marked the EPC’s first gathering in the Western Balkans. Yet, despite mounting calls for solidarity, deep divisions and growing anxieties were difficult to settle.
Around 50 national and regional leaders, as well as heads of European Union (EU) and international institutions, gathered in the Albanian capital, facing an array of unresolved issues ranging from enlargement fatigue and economic headwinds to migration dilemmas and pressing security concerns.
Strategic anxiety
Launched by French President Emmanuel Macron in May 2022, the EPC was intended to serve as a platform for policy coordination and political dialogue among European countries.
Three years on, however, that vision appears increasingly strained.
As transatlantic divisions deepen, particularly over the Ukraine conflict, European nations are increasingly grappling with the implications of a diminished American commitment.
Agathe Demarais, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said that Europe is not a priority for the United States. “I don’t think that in any field — be it trade or defense or anything else,” she said.
Faruk Boric, a political analyst from Bosnia and Herzegovina, said that for many years, the EU had followed the United States in terms of external politics. “But nowadays you can see that (U.S. President Donald) Trump is trying to make America great again without the EU,” he said.
Europe’s economic concerns are also growing as a new wave of U.S. tariffs poses a serious challenge to sustaining growth and enhancing competitiveness. Negotiations between the EU and the United States on related issues have yet to yield a breakthrough.
The EU is currently facing a 25 percent U.S. import tariff on steel, aluminum and automobiles, along with a 10 percent baseline duty on nearly all other goods. In April, Washington announced a 20 percent “reciprocal tariff” on EU products, which was later postponed for 90 days.
Migration remains another intractable issue. The EU faces both illegal migration flows and labor shortages, creating both political and logistical strain. Recent discussions have broadened to include legal migration pathways, cooperation with countries of origin and transit, and managing so-called “weaponized” migration.
Divisions persist among EPC-participating countries on migration-related issues. There is no consensus over the proposal of offshore deportation centers or to provide greater facilitation for admitting more young migrants.
More symbolic than substantive
Now in its sixth edition, the EPC still lacks a permanent secretariat, formal declarations or binding commitments. While it provides a flexible platform for dialogue, critics argue that a loose structure limits its political impact.
“The EPC has become little more than a photo-op of unity,” said He Zhigao, associate researcher with the Institute of European Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. “It can neither replace the EU nor NATO. It offers no real public goods like security guarantees or economic aid, and it lacks the power to advance meaningful EU enlargement.”
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, who co-chaired the meeting, called for a broader vision for the EPC beyond defense. “Why not imagine an EPC of education, science, and artificial intelligence and transnational lines beyond weaponry? A terrain of interconnected sources of knowledge, research and innovation, where Non-EU or Not-Yet-EU territories can become new frontiers for investments, free from bureaucracy, regulations and fiscal burdens…” he said.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized at the summit Europe’s responsibility to pursue unity despite diversity, noting that Western Balkan countries “must have a clear perspective for integration.”
However, no concrete steps toward accession were taken during the summit, once again leaving candidate countries in a state of waiting.
With no non-EU country volunteering to host the 2026 summit, doubts about the EPC’s long-term viability continue to grow. As the European Policy Centre warned, “without reform, the EPC risks becoming irrelevant.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (C), European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (L) and European Council President Antonio Costa are seen ahead of the UK-EU summit in London, Britain, on May 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Britain and the European Union (EU) reached a wide-ranging agreement on Monday, which is expected to generate nearly 9 billion pounds (about 12.02 billion U.S. dollars) for the British economy by 2040, Downing Street announced.
The deal was unveiled ahead of the first-ever UK-EU summit held in London, a meeting hailed by both sides as a “historic moment.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the agreement a “new chapter” in the relationship, as the two sides seek to reset ties after years of post-Brexit friction.
Major highlights
Hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the summit brought together von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. All three praised the deal as a major step forward during a joint press conference.
One major highlight is a youth mobility scheme, described by Downing Street as “capped and time-limited,” and modeled on similar agreements with countries like Australia and New Zealand. The UK and EU will also work toward restoring British participation in the Erasmus+ academic exchange program, from which the UK withdrew during the current 2021-2027 cycle.
Von der Leyen stressed that the mobility initiative will help rebuild long-term academic and cultural connections between European and British youth.
The agreement also includes a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal aimed at easing trade in food and agricultural goods. It will eliminate many routine checks on animal and plant products, cutting costs, reducing red tape, and reopening EU markets to British exports such as burgers and shellfish. It will also streamline goods movement between Britain and Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework.
“This deal slashes red tape for exporters and will bring down food prices in British supermarkets,” Starmer said. “It directly impacts working people across the country.”
In the fisheries sector, Britain and the EU agreed to a 12-year framework that preserves British access to EU waters and maintains current quotas for EU vessels. The British government will invest 360 million pounds to modernize its fleet and upgrade technology.
“Under the old arrangement, we moved to year-by-year negotiations, which brought instability,” Starmer said. “This new deal offers predictability. Over 70 percent of our seafood is sold to the EU, so reducing red tape makes a material difference.”
The agreement also lays the groundwork for defense and security cooperation, including a framework for UK participation in the EU’s SAFE defense program, which supports joint military procurement. Further negotiations will address financial contributions and supply chain arrangements.
British holidaymakers also stand to benefit. The deal will expand access to Europol data and enhance cooperation on biometric and vehicle information. British travelers will once again be able to use eGates at EU border controls, streamlining passport checks.
Surrender or step forward
Despite broad support, the agreement has also faced criticism. Opposition Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch pledged to reverse it if her party returns to power, while Reform UK’s Nigel Farage called the move a “surrender” to Brussels.
Fisheries groups also voiced discontent. The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations said the deal “gives away the best card we still had,” benefiting large exporters and supermarkets more than independent fishers.
Still, analysts viewed the agreement as a pragmatic step forward.
“Fishing is a tiny part of the British economy, but critics will latch onto it as symbolic,” said Iain Begg, a European politics expert at the London School of Economics and Political Science. “However, reducing barriers to UK exports carries much greater economic weight — especially for defense contractors who could benefit from EU military procurement.”
On the mobility deal, Begg noted that relaxed passport controls will be welcomed by many Brits, especially as the holiday season approaches.
While some critics view the deal as a British retreat, others argue it signals a more mature phase in UK-EU relations.
“If you frame this as winners and losers, you miss the bigger picture,” said Steve Nolan, senior economics lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University, who sees the move as a mutual recognition that “we are close neighbors and strategic partners.” In a fragmented world, this is a sign that “grown-up negotiation is back on the table,” he added.
No timeline has been set for the agreement’s full implementation, but Starmer said remaining negotiations would continue “with the same pace and intensity.” (1 British pound = 1.34 U.S. dollar)
A new report from Aotearoa Educators’ Collective, released today, has confirmed what teachers, students, and whanau have been calling out for years–our learning support system is overstretched, underfunded, and simply not working.
“This report paints a stark picture of systemic strain, with those working in learning support being pushed to breaking point,” says Green Party Education Spokesperson, Lawrence Xu-Nan.
“Education should serve the wellbeing and potential of all mokopuna—not just those whose needs align with the status quo. We have all the tools we need to give them that and more, but it requires serious investment and support for our workforce.
“However, the Government is intent on making cosmetic tweaks, like fragmented and reactive funding, while ignoring the core issue: the system was never set up to work properly in the first place.
“Every announcement to date from this coalition has tinkered around the edges to make the numbers look prettier, rather than prompting genuine change that benefits our tamariki, their whānau, kaiako, kaimahi, and the wider communities.
“Today’s report shows decades of neglect, growing pressure, and a workforce pushed to breaking point. The Government’s cancellation of 33 pay equity claims–many of which affect teachers and support staff–makes it blatantly clear they’re not serious about fixing it.
“Further, the new Education and Training Amendment Bill completely fails to recognise the actual need of our education system.
“The Greens’ plan lays out real solutions. As a starting point: nationalising ECE, expanding free school lunches, and building a learning support system where every child belongs.
“Our plan will put children’s wellbeing at the centre of decision-making and policy, where it should have been all along,”says Lawrence Xu-Nan.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Macaskill, Senior Lecturer in Experimental Psychology, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
Conventional wisdom suggests memories of past experiences can help us navigate problems in the present.
For example, if a friend told you they were having a disagreement with their partner, you might ask what they did last time they argued. If your child was anxious about a presentation, you might boost their confidence by saying “remember that great speech you did last year”.
How much insight do we have about whether these memories support us to solve current problems? And, objectively, does this strategy help people identify more and better solutions?
To get more conclusive evidence, we ran two experimental studies (one with 170 students, one with 340 students). In each, we instructed some people to recall previous times they were successful (we call this the “memory group”). We instructed others to recall neutral personal memories such as what they had for breakfast that morning (we call this the “control group”).
We then asked both groups to come up with as many solutions as they could to everyday problems, such as resolving a disagreement, or working in a team to complete a project.
We expected the memory group to generate more solutions to these problems than the control group. But surprisingly, they did not. Both groups generated the same number of solutions.
Does this mean drawing on the past is an ineffective problem-solving strategy, or perhaps only effective for some people?
For some people, drawing on memories of positive past experiences can help with a task they find difficult, such as public speaking. Getty Images
Unpacking the link between memory and problem solving
To dig further, we asked all participants what was going on in their heads while they were coming up with solutions. Across both groups, some participants said they drew on past experiences we did not specifically instruct them to recall.
This result hinted that recalling memories might be something some people are in the habit of doing anyway, and a possible reason why our memory instructions didn’t seem to make a difference.
We therefore wondered if our instructions were only helpful for participants who do not typically use their memory to solve problems. Indeed, in a followup study with 237 student participants, we found our instruction to recall past successful experiences was useful, but only for a subset of people.
Specifically, this applied to participants who reported they don’t typically use their memory of personal experiences for problem solving. These participants came up with more solutions than anyone else.
We reasoned this was because they already had other good problem-solving strategies (for example, thinking about facts relevant to the problem or thinking laterally and creatively) and we had merely given them an additional strategy (recalling their past).
However, we found no relationship between how often participants typically used their memory to solve problems, and how many solutions they came up with.
Memories can help with difficult tasks
What do our findings tell us? Recalling a memory may be helpful for generating solutions to problems, but it is not the only or best way to solve problems.
However, recalling a memory might help more or be more important in other problem-solving steps, such as defining a problem or implementing a solution once you’ve thought of it.
One study found people who remembered a positive public speaking experience before giving a speech were less anxious, and actually did a better job. Another study found people who recalled a positive experience with exercise increased their exercise over a week, even when the researchers took into account their prior attitudes, motivation and exercise activity.
A specific positive and related memory may therefore be helpful to following through on your intention to perform a specific behaviour. Conversely, as we have found, recalling a memory might not be the best or only approach for coming up with multiple solutions to a problem.
People also report that they recall their experiences to shape their identity and to develop and maintain relationships through reminiscing. Memory of personal experiences therefore has the potential to influence many facets of our life.
Overall, our research highlights the importance of context – when, how and who is drawing on memories of past experiences to solve problems – when we consider conventional wisdom about memory.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The shock and grief have prompted many people, from current and former AFL players to fans and media commentators, to seek actions and solutions.
The immediate priority is to ensure the Selwood family and anyone who is currently struggling with mental ill-health and may be adversely impacted by this latest tragedy, is supported and offered hope for the future.
In addition, the AFL community and mental health advocates have implored the AFL to introduce a mental health round, similar to its other themed rounds such as its ANZAC commemorations or the current Sir Doug Nicholls round, which celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, cultures and communities.
Better late than never?
I first raised the idea of a mental health round for the AFL in 2010 with then-CEO Andrew Demetriou after I was fortunate enough to be named Australian of the Year.
This allowed me gain access to prominent leaders to champion the fight against the alarming rise of mental ill-health in Australia – especially young people.
The idea never materialised, but I strongly believe a mental health round can play a significant role in reimagining the national conversation on mental health.
However, there are pros and cons to this, and it is critical it is approached in a strategic fashion that goes beyond just awareness and anti-stigma campaigns.
It must instead deliver real and meaningful reform to reduce the impact of mental ill-health and preventable deaths from suicide.
The problem we face
Mental ill-health affects all Australians directly or indirectly – suicide is the number one cause of death for people under 40.
More than 3,000 families every year lose a loved one to suicide and these are largely preventable deaths.
This growing public health crisis creates a huge burden that is social, emotional and economic.
In 2021, the Productivity Commission estimated the cost to Australia of our neglect of mental ill-health and suicide: around A$200 billion per year.
Up to 75% of all mental disorders begin before the age of 25.
Suicide is the biggest killer of young people, and two in five young people now experience mental ill-health every year, a 50% increase since 2007.
Athletes sit within the peak age of risk for mental ill-health, and elite sport can come with unique pressures that heightens risk.
While the AFL and most clubs have engaged strongly around this issue and have sought to provide support for current and former players, the wider mental health crisis extends far beyond the boundaries of the sporting arena.
Now the AFL has a unique opportunity to drive significant change.
Produced by a global consortium of world-leading psychiatrists, psychologists, academics and young people, it identified the need for “high-profile societal champions” to help sustain “high-quality media attention, which is crucial to any political campaign”.
It highlights societal champions (such as sporting bodies and figures), alongside the unified voice of health and research experts “play a key role in ensuring a message is received by a wider audience and appeals to the public in order to gain support from policy makers”.
This approach must be underpinned by powerful storytelling, which emphasises:
Positive stories of effective care and innovation, combined with credible first-person accounts from service users and their families and carers.
The AFL is uniquely positioned to deliver this by uniting athletes, fans, media platforms and grassroots programs.
It has taken on this role before with positive results, improving awareness and raising money for our ANZACs, as well as the fight against motor neurone disease (MND) – a relatively rare condition compared to mental illness and suicide.
However, it is imperative any such approach moves beyond the well-meaning but tired awareness campaigns that merely encourage people to “check on your mates”, “speak up if you’re struggling” or suggest the solution is simply a matter of improving “resilience”.
That can be code for “just pull yourself together” or “toughen up” – language that is all too familiar in footy circles.
Some elements of the sporting media may need to look in the mirror here.
A key objective of a mental health round should also be to engage and empower grassroots Australian communities to demand investment the mental health crisis urgently requires.
There is not much use urging people to seek help if expert mental health care is inaccessible or of poor quality. We can rely on world-class cancer care when we need it, but not so mental health care.
In addition to rapid and free access to high quality care, we also need a major boost to scientific research to create new treatments and fuel prevention.
The AFL is already a case study in how to galvanise medical research in another neglected area via its partnership with the FightMND campaign, an incredible initiative that has raised both public engagement and precious funds for scientific discovery.
A step forward?
To honour the tragic deaths of Adam and Troy Selwood and the tens of thousands of families who have been are devastated by suicide in recent years, Australia needs to do something about it.
The AFL is uniquely positioned to take a decisive leadership role on this issue.
But a mental health round must ensure public mental health experts are central to its design and delivery, so it drives not just conversation but real, lasting change.
If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Patrick McGorry receives funding from the NHRMC, NIH, Wellcome Trust and other research funders fro scientific research in mental health and suicide prevention. I am a member of the AFL’s mental health advisory committee.
We have all experienced boredom – that feeling of waning interest or decreased mental stimulation. Eventually we lose focus, we disengage. Time seems to pass slowly, and we may even start to feel restless. Whether it be watching a movie that disappoints, a child complaining that “there’s nothing to do”, or an adult zoning out during a meeting – boredom is a universal experience.
Generally defined as difficulty maintaining attention or interest in a current activity, boredom is commonly viewed as a negative state that we should try to avoid or prevent ourselves from experiencing.
But what if there’s another way to view boredom, as a positive state? Could learning to embrace boredom be of benefit?
The brain on boredom
The brain network is a system of interconnected regions that work together to support different functions. We can liken it to a city where suburbs (brain regions) are connected by roads (neural pathways), all working together to allow information to travel efficiently.
When we experience boredom – say, while watching a movie – our brain engages specific networks. The attention network prioritises relevant stimuli while filtering out distractions and is active when we commence the movie.
However, as our attention wanes, activity in the attention network decreases, reflecting our diminished ability to maintain focus on the unengaging content. Likewise, decreased activity occurs in the frontoparietal or executive control network due to the struggle to maintain engagement with the unengaging movie.
Simultaneously, the default mode network activates, shifting our attention toward internal thoughts and self-reflection. This is a core function of the default mode network, referred to as introspection, and suggestive of a strategy for coping with boredom.
This complex interplay of networks involves several key brain regions “working together” during the state of boredom. The insula is a key hub for sensory and emotional processing. This region shows increased activity when detecting internal body signals – such as thoughts of boredom – indicating the movie is no longer engaging. This is often referred to as “interoception”.
The amygdala can be likened to an internal alarm system. It processes emotional information and plays a role in forming emotional memories. During boredom, this region processes associated negative emotions, and the ventral medial prefrontal cortex motivates us to seek alternative stimulating activities.
The default mode network in our brains (highlighted here) shifts our attention towards internal thoughts and self-reflection when we’re bored. John Graner/Wikipedia
Boredom versus overstimulation
We live in a society that subjects us to information overload and high stress. Relatedly, many of us have adopted a fast-paced lifestyle, constantly scheduling ourselves to keep busy. As adults we juggle work and family. If we have kids, the habit of filling the day with schooling and after-school activities allows us to work longer hours.
In between these activities, if we have time to pause, we may be on our screens constantly organising, updating, or scrolling to simply stay occupied. As a result, adults inadvertently model the need to be constantly “on” to younger generations.
This constant stimulation can be costly – particularly for our nervous system. Our overscheduling can feed into overstimulation of the nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system which manages our fight-or-flight response is designed to deal with times of stress.
However, when we are constantly stressed by taking in new information and juggling different activities, the sympathetic nervous system can stay activated for too long, due to the cumulative effects of repeated exposure to different stressors. This is sometimes referred to as “allostatic overload”. It is when our nervous system becomes overwhelmed, keeping us in a heightened state of arousal, which can increase our risk of anxiety.
Eliminating the state of boredom deprives us of a simple and natural way to reset our sympathetic nervous system.
Could boredom be good for us?
In small doses, boredom is the necessary counterbalance to the overstimulated world in which we live. It can offer unique benefits for our nervous system and our mental health. This is opposed to long periods of boredom where increased default mode network activity may be associated with depression.
There are several benefits of giving ourselves permission to be occasionally bored:
improvements in creativity, allowing us to build “flow” in our thoughts
develops independence in thinking and encourages finding other interests rather than relying on constant external input
supports self-esteem and emotional regulation, because unstructured times can help us sit with our feelings which are important for managing anxiety
encourages periods without device use and breaks the loop of instant gratification that contributes to compulsive device use
Anxiety levels are on the rise worldwide, especially among our youth. Many factors contribute to this trend. We are constantly “on”, striving to ensure we are scheduling for every moment. But in doing so, we are potentially depriving our brains and bodies of the downtime they need to reset and recharge.
We need to embrace the pause. It is a space where creativity can prosper, emotions can be regulated, and the nervous system can reset.
Daniel Hermens receives funding from the Commonwealth government’s Prioritising Mental Health Initiative and the Queensland Mental Health Commission.
Michelle Kennedy 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.
Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy today announced that McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La. was selected as the site of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) National Center of Excellence for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Safety.
“In 2020, Congress passed the PIPES Act, which improved pipeline safety and infrastructure. As part of the bill, I added language that created the first-ever National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety, but I didn’t stop there. I made sure in that bill that the newly created Center was required to be in Louisiana. Today, President Trump and Transportation Secretary Duffy announced that the Center will be headquartered at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, and I thank them,” said Kennedy.
“Producing and exporting LNG is one of the most powerful ways we can unleash American energy, and the Lake Charles region is a critical hub of LNG activity in the U.S. The sheer volume of product supplied by the state of Louisiana is unparalleled and growing, and there is no better place to locate our Center of Excellence,” said Duffy.
The Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety (PIPES) Act of 2020 required PHMSA to establish that the National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety improve the federal government’s LNG facility expertise, act as an information repository on best practices for LNG facilities and facilitate collaboration among LNG stakeholders.
“The Center will advance LNG safety by promoting collaboration among government agencies, industry, academia, and other safety partners. Consolidating such remarkable levels of expertise will benefit the LNG sector for many generations to come,” said PHMSA Acting Administrator Ben Kochman.
“The PHMSA National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety at McNeese will be a game-changer for our region in terms of workforce development and groundbreaking research. We are excited to be on the forefront of helping ensure safety and sustainability in the energy sector and look forward to working with PHMSA to develop a world-class facility to house their staff,” said Wade Rousse, President, McNeese State University.
Kennedy has long fought for the National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety and its presence in southwest Louisiana.
In 2020, Kennedy inserted a provision to the PIPES Act requiring that the Center be in Louisiana. The PIPES Act, including Kennedy’s addition, became law as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
In May 2024, Kennedy questioned then-Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies (THUD Appropriations). In response to Kennedy’s questioning, Buttigieg confirmed that the Center would be located in Lake Charles, La.
During a May 2025 THUD Appropriations hearing, Kennedy questioned Secretary Duffy and confirmed that McNeese State University would be the site of the new Center. McNeese State University is the first undergraduate institution in the U.S. to offer a certificate program in LNG Business and is already the site of its own LNG Center of Excellence.
PHMSA and other federal agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Energy and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, have worked together to ensure the Center is focused on its mission of making the U.S. the leader in LNG operations.
Additional information about the National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety is available on PHMSA’s website.
Both events include displays, timelines and chances to provide feedback
CARBONADO – Community members are invited to learn more about options for the future of State Route 165 and crossing the Carbon River at two in-person open houses in June.
The Washington State Department of Transportation will hold one event at Carbonado School from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 2, and one at Wilkeson Elementary School from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11. Both sessions will include information about the WSDOT planning study underway after a permanent bridge closure.
The planning study will develop data-driven recommendations to address long-term transportation needs for SR 165 across the Carbon River Valley.
WSDOT also will host an online open house on its Engage page beginning Wednesday, May 28. The information in the online open house will be the same as the in-person open house events. A link to the online open house will be shared in a subsequent news release and on the planning study website.
SR 165 Carbon River- Fairfax Bridge Planning Study in-person open houses
June 2 open house
When: 4 to 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 2 Where: Carbonado School, 301 O’Ferrell Drive, Carbonado WA 98323
June 11 open house
When: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 11 Where: Wilkeson Elementary School, 640 Railroad Avenue, Wilkeson, WA 98396
Details: There is no formal presentation. Attendees are welcome to drop by anytime during the events. Project team members will be available to answer questions about the study and the options presented. The same information will be presented at both events, so participants can choose the one that best meets their schedules. Details also will be available on an online open house on the Engage page beginning Wednesday, May 28.
Background
WSDOT permanently closed the Carbon River/Fairfax Bridge on April 22. Recent inspections of the 103-year-old bridge revealed new deterioration of steel supports across the bridge. Since 2009, the bridge operated under vehicle weight restrictions. The structural challenges the bridge faced were brought on by years of deferred preservation due to lack of funding.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)
Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Scott Peters’ (CA-50) Veterans Claims Education Act (VCEA), which provides educational resources to steer veterans to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accredited entities instead of scammers. This will limit the ability of predatory companies to take advantage of and unfairly profit off veterans trying to access their hard-earned benefits. The House passed the legislation by voice vote.
The VCEA is inspired by a constituent who wrote to Rep. Peters seeking assistance after he hired a for-profit company to maximize his VA benefits, but ended up having to pay more money to the company than benefits he was receiving.
Speaking in support of his legislation, Rep. Peters said, “It is unconscionable that for-profit entities, known as ‘claims sharks,’ prey on the trust and goodwill of our veterans to line their own pockets. Republicans and Democrats may have sincere policy disagreements about how to provide world-class care to our nation’s veterans and their families, but I know we all agree that no one should be able to profit from the service and sacrifice of our veterans.”
Multiple veterans service organizations have endorsed the VCEA, including the American Legion, Fleet Reserve Association, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, and the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.
Specifically, the bill requires VA to:
Inform all veterans filing a claim that there are accredited entities that can assist them.
Provide the web address of an online search tool that lists accredited entities that can assist veterans with filing a claim.
Provide a publicly accessible web address where veterans can file a complaint to report entities that are unaccredited and target veterans by charging a fee for their services.
Background:
Upon separating from military service, veterans may file a disability claim with the VA on their own or by utilizing VA-backed resources, such as an accredited attorney, a claims agent, or a Veteran Service Officer (VSO). An accredited representative or VSO must pass an exam, complete a background check, and take continuing education courses to ensure they provide up-to-date information to veterans. These accredited resources may file an initial claim with VA on the veteran’s behalf free of charge. Unfortunately, an ecosystem of non-accredited for-profit entities has emerged which preys upon veterans’ frustrations with VA’s claims process. These companies often provide “consulting” services to help veterans prepare and present relevant paperwork needed to file a claim with VA in exchange for lump sum payments, a percentage of the total dollar amount awarded for a successful claim, or some other payment mechanism. Such fees lead many veterans to receive far too little of the benefits to which their service entitles them. Current legislative proposals designed to curb the excess of these companies focus on more stringent enforcement of existing laws and regulations.
Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines
The Matariki Festival programme for 2025 launches today via the Matariki Festival website.
This season’s programme celebrates wai (water), with a whakataukii at its heart:
Waitaa ki te Maanuka,
Waitii ki te Mangatangi,
Waipuna ki te Rangi.
Ngāti Tamaoho, in partnership with Te Kaunihera o Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland Council), is proud to present Matariki Festival for their second year as iwi manaaki (partner iwi).
Ngāti Tamaoho invites Aucklanders and visitors to be drawn to the cultural, environmental, and spiritual significance of water, guided by a reflection on three stars in the Matariki star cluster in particular.
Matariki star cluster can be seen mid-left.
Waitaa is the star of the sea and ocean, Waitii is the star of fresh water, and Waipunarangi symbolises rain.
For Ngāti Tamaoho, Waitaa connects through Te Maanukanuka o Hoturoa (the Manukau Harbour), Waitii connects through the Mangatangi Awa (a river flowing through the Hunua Ranges) and Waipunarangi connects with the rain bringing life to their fertile lands in the southern part of the Auckland region – Pukekohekohe.
Matariki Festival is a celebration of the Māori New Year for all to enjoy across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. This year it spans five weeks from 7 June to 13 July.
Te Hui Ahurei o Matariki (Matariki Festival Day) at Auckland Botanic Gardens on 20 June. Photo credit Grant Apiata.
Matariki Festival, known as Matariki ki te Wai in 2025, will see Ngāti Tamaoho hosting cultural activities, community events, water blessings and storytelling focused on their whakapapa (genealogy) and kaupapa (purpose).
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Regional celebrations, with community events, exhibitions and workshops will take place across the Auckland region with Matariki ki te Manawa in the city centre. These activities will bring local iwi, environmental groups and artists together.
Matariki Festival closes with a concert featuring Māori artists to celebrate the promise of the new year.
Head to the Matariki Festival for the full festival line-up.
Te Hui Ahurei o Matariki (Matariki Festival Day) on 20 June celebrates the rising of the Matariki star cluster above the horizon in the north-east skies at dawn.
The city centre with the most visibility of te ao Māori (Māori worldview) in its streetscapes in the world, will light up at around this time also, with a full programme heralding the Māori New Year.
Tūrama returns to Queen Street for Matariki Festival 2025; photo Auckland Council.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov
May 19, 2025
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov
May 19, 2025
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma
May 19, 2025
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovative Scientific and Technological Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin
May 19, 2025
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With the head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin
May 19, 2025
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma
May 19, 2025
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With the Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, and the Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma
May 19, 2025
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Innovative Scientific and Technological Center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory”
May 19, 2025
Previous news Next news
Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov
The innovative scientific and technological center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory” is being created by the Moscow government and Lomonosov Moscow State University in pursuance of the President’s instructions to ensure conditions in Moscow for the effective development and commercialization of innovative solutions.
The most favorable taxation and regulation regime has been created for residents of the INTC. Residents’ projects are exempt from most taxes for 10 years, including property tax, profit tax and VAT (with annual revenues of up to 1 billion rubles). Insurance contributions to state extra-budgetary funds are reduced to 14%, and foreign workers can be hired without a separate permit.
The MSU Technological Valley will consist of 9 specialized clusters with a total area of 479 thousand square meters on a territory of 17.6 hectares.
To date, two clusters have been put into operation: Lomonosov (created by the Moscow government) and Educational (created by Lomonosov Moscow State University). Construction has begun on two clusters (Interdisciplinary (by Lomonosov Moscow State University)) and Engineering (by attracting funds from private investors).
The areas of scientific and technological activity carried out on the territory of the MSU Scientific and Technical Center “Vorobyovy Gory”: biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, medical and biological research and testing; nanotechnology research of new materials and nanomechanics; information technology and mathematical modeling; robotics, special-purpose technologies and machine engineering, energy saving and efficient energy storage; space research and astronautics; geonomy and ecology; interdisciplinary humanitarian research and cognitive sciences; sports, innovative sports technologies; artificial intelligence technologies.
Residents – 294 companies.
Results of the activities of the MSU Vorobyovy Gory Scientific and Technical Center in 2021–2023: the number of R&D projects performed by residents is 181; the number of R&D projects developed by the residents of the Scientific and Technical Center is 416.
The Lomonosov cluster was commissioned in January 2023 and is currently 100% occupied. The selection of site residents was carried out jointly with the non-governmental development institute Innopraktika, with special attention paid to the technological component of the projects, the volume of scientific research and development of companies, as well as their demand in the market.
Currently, there are 76 resident companies in the Lomonosov cluster.
The cluster residents work in the following key areas: industrial technologies – 18 residents; unmanned systems – 18 residents; geotechnology and ecology – 15 residents; medicine and biotechnology – 13 residents; information technology – 12 residents.
According to the results of 2024, the residents of the Lomonosov cluster showed the following results: investments in R&D – 2.4 billion rubles; number of patents received – 105; total number of employees – 2 thousand people; company revenue – 15 billion rubles.
The products of the cluster residents are in demand and are used for seismic research in the Arctic seas (special hardware and software systems), production of buses, ATVs, snowmobiles and cleaning robots (electric drives), as well as for air purification in industrial buildings (innovative filters) and clinical and preclinical research, etc.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
May 19, 2025
Previous news Next news
Yuri Trutnev fulfilled the dream of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov to experience the role of a soldier with the help of the VOIN Center
As part of the all-Russian charity event “Yolka Zhelaniy”, Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev helped fulfill the wish of nine-year-old Nikita Vakhnov from Sochi. The boy’s dream of being a soldier was realized with the support of the center for military-sports training and patriotic education of youth “Voin”.
“This is a good wish. A courageous one. By order of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, a center with this very name was created – “Warrior”. This center educates citizens who love their Motherland, who are ready to serve it in a broad sense, to defend it. The center has been operating for three years. I will say honestly, the feedback from all the guys who have completed training at the center is very good. Half of my family has completed such training,” Yuri Trutnev noted earlier when presenting the certificate and talking to the boy.
Nikita himself said: “I have long dreamed of becoming a military man, and this trip is the best gift in my life. I learned a lot of new things and was able to see real military equipment with my own eyes.” He received a certificate for completing a military-sports training course at the regional branch of the “Voin” center in the Chechen Republic, located on the basis of the Russian Special Forces University named after V.V. Putin.
The program of the stay was prepared taking into account the age and interests of the young guest. The boy was introduced to the main training sites of the center and shown samples of heavy weapons and armored vehicles. Over the course of three days, Nikita underwent a series of classes, including both theoretical and practical training. The program included fire training, tactical medicine, control of unmanned aerial vehicles, and classes in a wind tunnel.
In Gudermes, he took part in a flower-laying ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day at the memorial to those killed in the Great Patriotic War.
In addition to the educational part, the boy was given an exciting trip on a Chaborz buggy and excursions to the cities and picturesque corners of the mountainous regions of the Chechen Republic.
Director of the branch of the Voin center Pavel Kozlov commented: “Nikita made a wish to become a military man, and training at the Voin center was the first step to fulfilling this dream. We are glad that we made these days special for him, and we hope that he will remember them for the rest of his life.”
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.
The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced the appointment of Katherine Reilly as the agency’s Acting Inspector General. Ms. Reilly is currently serving as a Deputy Inspector General at the SEC. She replaces Deborah Jeffrey, who has served as the SEC’s Inspector General since 2023 and is retiring.
“Our Inspector General’s office champions transparency and seeks to root out redundancy and overlap to ensure our agency is running as efficiently and effectively as possible,” said SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. “Katherine possesses the experience and expertise to continue these oversight efforts. We also thank Deb for her leadership and dedication in this area during these past two years.”
Prior to her arrival at the SEC, Ms. Jeffrey served as inspector general at AmeriCorps for 11 years after working in the private practice of law for 25 years. She holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University and Harvard Law School, where she served as Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review.
Ms. Reilly joined the SEC’s Office of Inspector General in 2020 as Counsel to the Inspector General. She later served as Acting Inspector General in a rotating role prior to Ms. Jeffrey’s arrival and served as the Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations from December 2022 to March 2025.
Ms. Reilly began her career as an antitrust lawyer at the Federal Trade Commission before transitioning to private practice in the field of antitrust and commercial litigation. She joined the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) in 2005 and ascended to become Director of Legal Services before leaving in 2013 to join the U.S. Department of Justice Executive Office for Immigration Review, where she served in the roles of Chief Counsel for Employee and Labor Relations as well as Deputy Director. In June 2019, Ms. Reilly returned to the USPS-OIG as Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Mission Support.
Ms. Reilly is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctorate degrees. Ms. Reilly also has a Master of Laws degree from The University of Melbourne, Australia.
The SEC’s Office of Inspector General is an independent unit that promotes the integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the SEC’s critical programs and operations through rigorous and objective oversight.
Under the Inspector General Act of 1978, inspectors general have a dual and independent reporting relationship to the Commission and Congress. Appointments are made without regard to political affiliation and solely on the basis of integrity and demonstrated ability in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, law, management analysis, public administration, or investigations.
COLORADO SPRINGS/PUEBLO – Today, Governor Polis signed bills into law in Colorado Spring and Pueblo to make Colorado safer by strengthening public safety, save Coloradans and businesses money on energy, expand access to the healthcare needed to thrive, support Colorado’s advanced industries, and more.
At the Pueblo Chamber of Commerce, Governor Polis signed HB25-1171 – Possession of Weapon by Previous Offender Crimes, sponsored by Representatives Shannon Bird and Andrew Boesenecker, and Senators Nick Hinrichsen and Dafna Michaelson Jenet.
“Today, we are taking important steps to make Colorado one of the top ten safest states in the nation. From now on anyone convicted of first degree motor vehicle theft ineligible to possess a firearm, keeping guns out of the wrong hands and protecting our communities. I am proud of our work to improve public safety in Colorado, and with this bill signed into law, I look forward to continuing our bold progress to protect Coloradans and our communities,” said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis also signed the bipartisan HB25-1177 – Utility Economic Development Rate Tariff Adjustments, sponsored by Representatives Tisha Mauro and Ty Winter and Senators Nick Hinrichsen and Byron Pelton.
“In Colorado, utility rates remain below the national average, and this new bipartisan law will help reduce costs, saving Coloradans and businesses money on energy. This law will provide utilities and businesses the certainty needed to secure new investment, help lower electricity costs, and allow communities and businesses to plan for the future, all while advancing our climate goals, continuing embracing new money-saving clean energy, and protecting our clean air,” said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis also signed SB25-008 – Adjust Necessary Document Program sponsored by Senators Nick Hinrichsen and Cathy Kipp and Representative Meg Froelich.
Then, Governor Polis visited SkyView Middle School, one of Colorado’s 2024 National Blue Ribbon Award Winning schools. With today’s visit, Governor Polis has visited all four Colorado Blue Ribbon schools. Governor Polis previously visited Mesa View Elementary School in Grand Junction, DSST: Cedar Ridge High School in Denver, and Zach Elementary School in Fort Collins.
“Providing every Colorado student with a high-quality education at every level of K-12 education is important for students’ futures, our workforce, and economy. I was honored to visit SkyView Middle School to celebrate its well-deserved national recognition as a blue ribbon school, and learn about how successful strategies at SkyView can help other schools across Colorado,” said Governor Polis.
Later this afternoon, Governor Polis will sign the bipartisan HB25-1184 – Community-Based Continuing Care for Seniors, sponsored by Representatives Amy Paschal and Anthony Hartsook and Senators Dylan Roberts and John Carson.
“In a Colorado For All, every Coloradan, no matter your age or ability, should have access to the care you need when you need it. Thanks to this law, Coloradans awaiting admission to supportive living facilities will not need to wait before receiving necessary care. By expanding access to the care seniors need, we are ensuring that Colorado is the best state for anyone to live out their golden years,” said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis will also sign the bipartisan HB25-1157 – Reauthorize Advanced Industries Tax Credit, sponsored by Representatives Brianna Titone and William Lindstedt, and Senators Marc Snyder and Mark Baisley.
“Colorado is a state of innovators, leading the way in the cutting-edge emerging technologies of the future. Advanced industries support hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, find solutions in every sector from transportation to health care and agriculture, and are leading the way. These tax credits will ensure that our advanced industries continue to drive our innovation and economy,” said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis will also sign the following bipartisan bills:
HB25-1270 – Patients’ Right to Try Individualized Treatments, sponsored by Representatives Rose Pugliese and Lindsay Gilchrist and Senators Barbara Kirkmeyer and Lindsey Daugherty
SB25-116 – Spousal Maintenance Guidelines sponsored by Senators Marc Snyder and Lisa Frizell and Representatives Monica Duran and Ryan Armagost
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK and Ukraine hail scientists’ role in the fight for freedom
From healthcare to energy, collaboration with UK researchers is supporting Ukraine’s defence and reconstruction, and the UK’s Plan for Change.
From healthcare to energy, collaboration with UK researchers is supporting Ukraine’s defence and reconstruction, and the UK’s Plan for Change
Academic, business and political leaders gather in London later today to celebrate UK-Ukrainian joint science endeavours – and look ahead to more
Science, tech and innovation are a key pillar of UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership: the long-term pact to support long-term security and growth for both our countries
The critical role that Ukraine’s scientists and researchers are playing in the battle for their country’s freedom, and its hopes for a brighter future, working hand-in-hand with UK colleagues, will be celebrated at an event at the British Academy in London later today (Tuesday 20 May).
The UK is resolute in its support for Ukraine, as the country defends itself in the face of Russia’s illegal and barbaric invasion. Our backing is cemented by the landmark 100 Year Partnership, unveiled by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in January, of which strong and deep science and technology ties form a key part.
Joint work by the UK and Ukraine’s researchers is not only supporting Ukraine’s freedom and future, but also unlocking benefits to the UK economy, and more besides, all of which bolsters the Plan for Change. In one joint project, on health, the University of Warwick have worked with Kharkiv National University of Radio Electronics to train AI models to quickly and accurately triage shrapnel wounds. And work by Manchester, Aston and Aberystwyth Universities and Ukrainian experts to boost Ukraine’s electricity grid with green energy, is also being applied to help Britain adapt as we get more energy from renewables, and as energy-intensive industries like data centres grow.
Meanwhile efforts like the UK-Ukraine Techbridge are helping bring innovative new technologies to bear on critical tasks like clearing landmines and unexploded bombs. The TechBridge is also focused on AI, health, cyber security, education, and agritech, and is building opportunities in both countries for trade, upskilling, and investment.
Much of this important work will be showcased at London’s historic British Academy later, at an event hosted by the UK’s Science Minister and Ukraine’s Deputy Minister for Education and Science, who will be joined by a host of academic, business and research leaders. Lord Vallance will announce an additional £100,000 for the UK-Ukraine Techbridge at the event, as well as £400,000 for trilateral efforts to harness digital technologies to improve government across the UK, Ukraine and Estonia.
UK Science Minister Lord Vallance said:
Freedom is an essential ingredient for scientific progress. Without it we are denied the ability to act on the curiosity that sparks so many breakthroughs, or to get the answers that make us think that maybe we have been wrong about the way we have thought about something in the past.
Science is also international, which means that Ukraine’s inventions and innovations are ones that the UK and the entire world ultimately benefits from, and vice versa. We only stand to gain from working with Ukraine to keep the flame of freedom alive, and it is only natural, that the joint endeavours of our researchers, are critical to those efforts.
Ukraine’s Minister for Education and Science, Oksen Lisovyi, said
For Ukraine, science is not only about development — it is also about resistance. Today, our researchers are working side by side with international partners not only to support the country in its most difficult times, but also to lay the foundations for recovery. This collaboration is a mutual investment in freedom, humanity, and the future. We are grateful to the United Kingdom for a partnership built on shared values and trust.
The UK-Ukraine partnership on science, innovation and technology has already delivered important work, starting with the:
Since it was launched in 2022, it has helped over 170 Ukrainian experts endangered by the war to relocate to just under 70 UK universities, and continue their work on a temporary basis – as well as funding their research with £22.5 million. The UK Government has also supported the UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative, which has enabled Ukrainian researchers to keep making progress, despite wartime disruption, by pairing up UK and Ukrainian universities. This has provided remote access to UK facilities and equipment, and avenues for joint funding, including £5 million of Research England grant funding to support new research partnerships.
We are also harnessing the AI, data science and digital expertise of the UK, Ukraine and Estonia with a view to enhancing digital government and public services through technology and innovation under an initiative on trilateral cooperation.
WASHINGTON— The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today released its Response to Comments on the 2024 LNG Export Study, marking a critical step toward returning to regular order on liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. With this action, DOE has completed the final hurdles left over from the Biden administration’s reckless pause on LNG export permits, paving the way for the Trump Administration to fully unleash American LNG exports.
“President Trump was given a mandate to unleash American energy dominance, and that includes U.S. LNG exports,” U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. “The facts are clear: expanding America’s LNG exports is good for Americans and good for the world. Today, the Department of Energy is following the facts, closing the door on the Biden administration’s failed policies, and putting America’s energy future on stronger footing.”
“The 2024 Study confirms what our nation always knew—LNG supports our economy, strengthens our allies, and enhances national security. Biden’s opposition defied reason and reality and hurt American progress. We are pleased to issue the Response to Comments on the 2024 LNG Export Study, which will allow DOE to close out this chapter and fully return to regular order on LNG exports,” said Tala Goudarzi, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management.
The 2024 LNG Study was released at the end of the Biden administration in December 2024 and had a public comment period through March 20th of this year. Based on the record evidence from the 2024 LNG Export Study and the public comments received, DOE makes several key findings, including: the United States has a robust natural gas supply that is sufficient to meet growing levels of exports while minimizing impacts to domestic prices; growing LNG exports increases our gross domestic product and expands jobs while improving our trade balance; and increasing U.S. LNG exports enhances domestic and international global security with no discernable impact to global greenhouse gas emissions.
In sum, DOE concludes that the complete record from the 2024 LNG Export Study, inclusive of the Study, the comments received, and this Response to Comments, supports the proposition that exports of LNG from the United States are in the best interest of the American public.
With the public comments to the 2024 LNG Export Study now addressed, DOE will proceed with issuing final orders on pending applications to export U.S.-sourced natural gas as LNG to non-free trade agreement countries.
A Notice of Availability of the Response to Comments will be published in the Federal Register in the coming days. In the meantime, the Response to Comments is available on DOE’s website here.
Parents, students and teachers are invited to make a submission to inform the Anti-Bullying Rapid Review which has been launched by the Albanese Labor Government.
The Anti-Bullying Rapid Review is a key part of the Government’s plans to develop a national approach to addressing bullying in Australian schools.
The Review, being led by Dr Charlotte Keating and Dr Jo Robinson AM, is examining current school procedures and best practice methods to address bullying behaviours.
The Review will consult broadly with key stakeholders across metropolitan and regional Australia, including parents, teachers, students, parent groups, state education departments and the non-government sector.
Submissions will help in understanding the different approaches to responding to bullying in schools and the effectiveness of them.
Bullying has no place in our schools. Students, teachers and staff should always feel safe in the classroom.
That’s why we will listen to parents, students, teachers and staff to develop a national strategy that is grounded in evidence and informed by lived experiences.
The final report of the Review will be presented to all Australian Education Ministers in coming months.
Submissions are now open and close on 20 June 2025.
Visit www.education.gov.au/antibullying-rapid-reviewto make a submission, which can be made anonymously if preferred.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:
“Bullying is not just something that happens in schools, but schools are places where we can intervene and provide support for students.
“All students and staff should be safe at school, and free from bullying and violence.
“That’s why we’re taking action to develop a national standard to address bullying in schools.
“Last year we worked together to ban mobile phones in schools. This is another opportunity for us to support students, teachers and parents across the country.
“We will listen to parents, teachers, students and work with the states and territories to get this right.”
H. Con. Res. 14, the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, instructed the House Committee on the Judiciary to recommend legislative changes that would increase deficits up to a specified amount over the 2025-2034 period. As part of the reconciliation process, the House Committee on the Judiciary approved legislation on April 30, 2025, with provisions that would increase deficits.
Estimated Federal Cost
The reconciliation recommendations of the House Committee on the Judiciary would increase deficits by $6.9 billion over the 2025-2034 period. The estimated budgetary effects of the legislation are shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 150 (international affairs), 600 (income security), and 750 (administration of justice).
Return to Reference
Table 1.
Estimated Budgetary Effects of Reconciliation Recommendations Title VII, House Committee on the Judiciary, as Ordered Reported on April 30, 2025
By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2025-2029
2025-2034
Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending
Budget Authority
81,395
-354
-667
-605
-703
-789
-871
-912
-990
-1,113
79,066
74,391
Estimated Outlays
*
6,467
10,273
15,082
18,799
13,657
8,207
2,625
-530
-1,122
50,621
73,458
Increases in Revenues
Estimated Revenues
0
4,533
5,916
6,193
6,990
8,004
8,397
8,635
8,872
9,008
23,632
66,548
Net Increase or Decrease (-) in the Deficit
From Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues
Effect on the Deficit
*
1,934
4,357
8,889
11,809
5,653
-190
-6,010
-9,402
-10,130
26,989
6,910
Basis of Estimate
For this estimate, CBO assumes that the legislation will be enacted in summer 2025. CBO’s estimates are relative to its January 2025 baseline and cover the period from 2025 through 2034. Outlays of directly appropriated amounts were estimated using historical obligation and spending rates for similar programs. The estimates account for judicial decisions and administrative actions through April 10, 2025.
Subtitle A. Immigration Matters
Subtitle A would impose new or modify existing fees on aliens (non-U.S. nationals) seeking benefits under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Under the legislation, a portion of those fees would remain available to certain agencies to spend without further appropriation; the remaining amounts would be deposited in the Treasury. Subtitle A also would directly appropriate $81.4 billion in total to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Department of Justice (DOJ) for increased immigration enforcement and other activities. CBO estimates that enacting subtitle A would increase direct spending outlays by $73.5 billion and increase revenues by $66.5 billion over the 2025-2034 period (see Table 2).
Part 1. Immigration Fees
The legislation would impose fees on aliens for undertaking various activities, including applying for or renewing certain travel or work authorization documents, and applying for other benefits under the INA. Under current law, the Department of State adjudicates requests for visas from aliens abroad; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) adjudicates requests for benefits under the INA for aliens who are physically present in the United States. Fees also can be assessed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP), for inspections of people at ports of entry, and by the Executive Office of Immigration Review (EOIR), which oversees removal proceedings and adjudicates requests from aliens in immigration court. Under current law, those agencies can charge fees to cover the costs of providing services. Any new fees collected under the legislation would be additional to collections under current law.
A portion of some fees under the legislation would be made available to the Department of State, CBP, EOIR, HHS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and USCIS; those amounts could be spent without further appropriation. Beginning in 2027, CBO estimates that some of that spending would be subject to sequestration.
The legislation specifies fee amounts for 2025. In subsequent years, some amounts would increase based on the consumer price index for all urban consumers. The legislation would prohibit any fees from being waived or reduced.
Indirect taxes and regulatory fees tend to reduce collections of income and payroll taxes. As a result, CBO expects that most of the new fee collections would be partially offset by decreases in tax receipts of about 25 percent of the gross fee collections each year. Unless otherwise noted in the estimates below, that offset is applied to the estimated revenues for each fee.
CBO’s estimates of the number of people who would pay the fees are based on a January 2025 demographic and economic forecast. Where applicable, those projections were adjusted to account for executive actions and judicial decisions undertaken as of April 10, 2025. Those include ending the use of various categorical parole programs; terminating parole for people who arrived under the Parole Process for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans; and terminating the 2023 designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan nationals physically present before October 3, 2023. CBO’s estimates also are based on historical trends in filing volume and recent trends in inflows of other foreign nationals since January 2025. Where applicable, CBO’s estimates also account for applicants’ and petitioners’ responses to the fees that would be imposed under the legislation.
Asylum Fee. Section 70002 would impose a $1,000 fee on aliens applying for asylum. CBO estimates that about 4 million people will apply for asylum over the 2025-2034 period, increasing revenues by $2.3 billion under this section for the same period. Some of those fees would be made available to EOIR and USCIS to retain and spend without further appropriation. CBO estimates that the provision would increase outlays by $1.5 billion over the 2025-2034 period. On net, CBO estimates that enacting this section would decrease the deficit by $784 million over the 2025-2034 period. (Under current law, aliens in removal proceedings can file defensive asylum applications with EOIR; others can file affirmative asylum applications with USCIS. Under this provision, 50 percent of the fees collected from defensive asylum applications would be made available to EOIR and 50 percent of the fees collected from affirmative asylum applications would be made available to USCIS.)
Employment Authorization Document Fees. Section 70003 would impose a $550 fee on certain aliens applying for initial work authorization. The fee would apply to asylum applicants, parolees, and people granted TPS. Of the fees collected from asylum applicants, 25 percent would be made available to USCIS to retain and spend without further appropriation.
CBO estimates that about 3 million asylum applicants, 225,000 parolees, and fewer than 1,000 TPS beneficiaries will apply for initial work authorization over the 2025-2034 period, increasing revenues under this provision by $1.4 billion over the same period. CBO also estimates that the provision would increase outlays by $413 million over the 2025‑2034 period. On net, CBO estimates that enacting the provision would decrease Erich Dvorak (for nonimmigration matters)
Estimate Reviewed By
Elizabeth Cove Delisle Chief, Income Security Cost Estimates Unit
Ann E. Futrell Acting Chief, Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit
Justin Humphrey Chief, Finance, Housing, and Education Cost Estimates Unit
Joshua Shakin Chief, Revenue Projections Unit
Kathleen FitzGerald Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit
Christina Hawley Anthony Deputy Director of Budget Analysis
H. Samuel Papenfuss Deputy Director of Budget Analysis
Chad Chirico Director of Budget Analysis
Phillip L. Swagel
Director, Congressional Budget Office
[Table 2 begins on the next page.]
Authorization Document Fees
Budget Authority
0
77
63
54
47
42
39
38
37
35
241
432
Estimated Outlays
0
50
62
57
50
44
40
38
36
36
219
413
Sec. 70007, Unaccompanied Alien Child Sponsor Fee
Budget Authority
0
23
24
18
17
18
18
18
19
19
82
174
Estimated Outlays
0
12
21
20
18
18
18
18
19
19
71
163
Sec. 70009, Form I-94 Fee
Budget Authority
0
-702
-1,012
-1,063
-1,131
-1,204
-1,283
-1,355
-1,442
-1,544
-3,908
-10,736
Estimated Outlays
0
-746
-1,016
-1,066
-1,135
-1,208
-1,287
-1,369
-1,457
-1,550
-3,963
-10,834
Sec. 70015, Diversity Immigrant Visa Fees
Budget Authority
0
143
137
149
152
155
158
166
170
169
581
1,399
Estimated Outlays
0
71
108
143
150
153
156
159
163
166
472
1,269
Sec. 70016, EOIR Fees
Budget Authority
0
28
37
40
40
41
43
45
46
46
145
366
Estimated Outlays
0
18
30
37
40
41
43
43
44
45
125
341
Sec. 70017, ESTA Fee
Budget Authority
0
-80
-10
116
123
129
136
146
155
159
149
874
Estimated Outlays
0
-26
-38
15
80
123
130
136
144
152
31
716
Sec. 70018, Immigration User Fees
Budget Authority
0
-96
-152
-132
-134
-137
-140
-128
-131
-148
-514
-1,198
Estimated Outlays
0
-194
-174
-140
-137
-139
-142
-145
-148
-151
-645
-1,370
Sec. 70019, EVUS Fee
Budget Authority
0
11
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
20
56
150
Estimated Outlays
0
2
10
14
15
16
17
18
18
19
41
129
(Continued)
Table 2.
Estimated Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues Under Reconciliation Recommendations Title VII, House Committee on the Judiciary, as Ordered Reported on April 30, 2025
(Continued)
By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2025-2029
2025-2034
Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending
Part 2. Use of Funds
Sec. 70100, Executive Office for Immigration Review
Budget Authority
1,250
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1,250
1,250
Estimated Outlays
*
47
153
322
553
144
31
0
0
0
1,075
1,250
Sec. 70101, Adult Alien Detention Capacity and Family Residential Centers
Budget Authority
45,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
45,000
45,000
Estimated Outlays
*
4,000
6,900
9,550
11,500
7,050
4,200
1,800
0
0
31,950
45,000
Sec. 70102, Retention and Signing Bonuses for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Personnel
Budget Authority
858
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
858
858
Estimated Outlays
*
77
86
101
126
206
238
24
0
0
390
858
Sec. 70103, Hiring of Additional U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Personnel
Budget Authority
8,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
8,000
8,000
Estimated Outlays
*
320
700
1,100
1,500
2,220
1,720
360
80
0
3,620
8,000
Sec. 70104, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Hiring Capability
Budget Authority
600
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
600
600
Estimated Outlays
*
390
120
90
0
0
0
0
0
0
600
600
Sec. 70105, Transportation and Removal Operations
Budget Authority
14,400
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
14,400
14,400
Estimated Outlays
*
625
1,561
2,538
3,575
3,068
1,853
935
245
0
8,299
14,400
Sec. 70106, Information Technology Investments
Budget Authority
700
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
700
700
Estimated Outlays
*
7
40
84
160
196
115
70
28
0
291
700
Sec. 70107, Facilities Upgrades
Budget Authority
550
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
550
550
Estimated Outlays
*
6
30
66
128
154
92
52
22
0
230
550
Sec. 70108, Fleet Modernization
Budget Authority
250
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
250
250
Estimated Outlays
*
20
44
70
69
35
12
0
0
0
203
250
Sec. 70109, Promoting Family Unity
Budget Authority
20
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
20
20
Estimated Outlays
*
16
3
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
20
20
(Continued)
Table 2.
Estimated Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues Under Reconciliation Recommendations Title VII, House Committee on the Judiciary, as Ordered Reported on April 30, 2025
(Continued)
By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2025-2029
2025-2034
Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending
Sec. 70110, Funding Section 287(G) of the Immigration and Nationality Act
Budget Authority
650
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
650
650
Estimated Outlays
*
50
105
165
190
100
40
0
0
0
510
650
Sec. 70111, Compensation for Incarceration of Criminal Aliens
Budget Authority
950
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
950
950
Estimated Outlays
*
9
142
285
256
190
29
19
10
10
692
950
Sec. 70112, Office of the Principal Legal Advisor
Budget Authority
1,320
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1,320
1,320
Estimated Outlays
*
56
115
183
245
369
281
59
12
0
599
1,320
Sec. 70113, Return of Aliens Arriving From Contiguous Territory
Budget Authority
500
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
500
500
Estimated Outlays
*
275
150
75
0
0
0
0
0
0
500
500
Sec. 70114, State and Local Participation in Homeland Security Efforts
Budget Authority
787
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
787
787
Estimated Outlays
*
394
236
157
0
0
0
0
0
0
787
787
Sec. 70115, Unaccompanied Alien Children Capacity
Budget Authority
3,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3,000
3,000
Estimated Outlays
*
90
180
450
600
600
450
270
120
0
1,320
2,760
Sec. 70116, Department of Homeland Security Criminal and Gang Checks for Unaccompanied Alien Children
Budget Authority
20
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
20
20
Estimated Outlays
*
16
3
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
20
20
Sec. 70117, Department of Health and Human Services Criminal and Gang Checks for Unaccompanied Alien Children
Budget Authority
20
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
20
20
Estimated Outlays
*
4
6
6
4
0
0
0
0
0
20
20
Sec. 70118, Information about Sponsors and Adult Residents of Sponsor Households
Budget Authority
50
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
50
50
Estimated Outlays
*
10
15
15
10
0
0
0
0
0
50
50
(Continued)
Table 2.
Estimated Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues Under Reconciliation Recommendations Title VII, House Committee on the Judiciary, as Ordered Reported on April 30, 2025
(Continued)
By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2025-2029
2025-2034
Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending
Sec. 70119, Repatriation of Unaccompanied Alien Children
Budget Authority
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
100
100
Estimated Outlays
*
80
15
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
100
100
Sec. 70120, United States Secret Service
Budget Authority
1,170
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1,170
1,170
Estimated Outlays
*
61
188
333
469
94
25
0
0
0
1,051
1,170
Sec. 70121, Combating Drug Trafficking and Illegal Drug Use
Budget Authority
500
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
500
500
Estimated Outlays
*
350
100
50
0
0
0
0
0
0
500
500
Sec. 70122, Investigating and Prosecuting Immigration Related Matters
Budget Authority
600
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
600
600
Estimated Outlays
*
128
150
150
150
22
0
0
0
0
578
600
Sec. 70123, Expedited Removal for Criminal Aliens
Budget Authority
75
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
75
75
Estimated Outlays
*
60
11
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
75
75
Sec. 70124, Removal of Certain Criminal Aliens Without Further Hearing
Budget Authority
25
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
25
25
Estimated Outlays
*
20
4
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
25
25
Subtitle C. Other Matters
Sec. 70300, Limitation on Donations Made Pursuant to Settlement Agreements to Which the United States Is a Party
Budget Authority
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
Estimated Outlays
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
Total Changes
Budget Authority
81,395
-354
-667
-605
-703
-789
-871
-912
-990
-1,113
79,066
74,391
Estimated Outlays
*
6,467
10,273
15,082
18,799
13,657
8,207
2,625
-530
-1,122
50,621
73,458
(Continued)
Table 2.
Estimated Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues Under Reconciliation Recommendations Title VII, House Committee on the Judiciary, as Ordered Reported on April 30, 2025
(Continued)
By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2025-2029
2025-2034
Increases and Decreases (-) in Revenues
Subtitle A. Immigration Matters
Part 1. Immigration Fees
Sec. 70002, Asylum Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
356
361
287
244
219
206
198
195
194
1,248
2,260
Sec. 70003, Employment Authorization Document Fees
Estimated Revenues
0
234
205
167
148
134
125
120
118
116
754
1,367
Sec. 70004, Parole Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
4
5
5
5
6
6
6
6
6
19
49
Sec. 70005, Special Immigrant Juvenile Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
8
18
Sec. 70006, Temporary Protected Status Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
126
212
154
155
209
142
162
205
139
647
1,504
Sec. 70007, Unaccompanied Alien Child Sponsor Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
68
69
53
51
52
53
54
56
57
241
513
Sec. 70008, Visa Integrity Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
2,154
2,992
3,115
3,080
3,216
3,355
3,499
3,646
3,798
11,341
28,855
Sec. 70010, Yearly Asylum Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
0
0
0
61
118
231
231
233
237
61
1,111
Sec. 70011, Fee for Continuances Granted in Immigration Court Proceedings
Estimated Revenues
0
30
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
156
386
Sec. 70012, Fee Relating to Renewal and Extension of Employment Authorization for Parolees
Estimated Revenues
0
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Sec. 70013, Fee Relating to Termination, Renewal, and Extension of Employment Authorization for Asylum Applicants
Estimated Revenues
0
313
489
622
1,462
1,984
2,155
2,200
2,205
2,211
2,886
13,641
Sec. 70014, Fee Relating to Renewal and Extension of Employment Authorization for Aliens Granted Temporary Protected Status
Estimated Revenues
0
229
364
549
546
543
538
534
531
526
1,688
4,360
(Continued)
Table 2.
Estimated Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues Under Reconciliation Recommendations Title VII, House Committee on the Judiciary, as Ordered Reported on April 30, 2025
(Continued)
By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2025-2029
2025-2034
Increases and Decreases (-) in Revenues
Sec. 70015, Diversity Immigrant Visa Fees
Estimated Revenues
0
703
717
734
750
766
783
800
817
835
2,904
6,905
Sec. 70016, EOIR Fees
Estimated Revenues
0
76
104
107
109
112
114
116
118
121
396
977
Sec. 70017, ESTA Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
0
208
288
299
571
592
603
626
648
795
3,835
Sec. 70019, EVUS Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
13
18
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
68
178
Sec. 70020, Fee for Sponsor of Unaccompanied Alien Child who Fails to Appear in Immigration Court
Estimated Revenues
0
210
110
30
-5
-15
5
15
15
15
345
380
Sec. 70021, Fee for Aliens Ordered Removed in Absentia
Estimated Revenues
0
10
13
13
14
14
14
15
15
15
50
123
Sec. 70022, Customs and Border Protection Inadmissible Alien Apprehension Fee
Estimated Revenues
0
5
6
7
7
9
10
12
14
16
25
86
Subtitle C. Other Matters
Sec. 70300, Limitation on Donations Made Pursuant to Settlement Agreements to Which the United States Is a Party
Estimated Revenues
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
Total Changes
Estimated Revenues
0
4,533
5,916
6,193
6,990
8,004
8,397
8,635
8,872
9,008
23,632
66,548
Net Increase or Decrease (-) in the Deficit
From Changes in Direct Spending and Revenues
Effect on the Deficit
0
1,934
4,357
8,889
11,809
5,653
-190
-6,010
-9,402
-10,130
26,989
6,910
a. CBO has no basis on which to estimate the direction or magnitude of the changes in direct spending and revenues or the effect on the deficit that would stem from the enactment of section 70300.
People who use SR 307 and SR 308 are invited to give feedback during open house events
POULSBO – The Washington State Department of Transportation is seeking feedback on several fish barrier removal projects in Kitsap County during an online open house and two in-person open houses.
Starting in 2027, WSDOT will correct six fish passage barriers under Bond Road/State Route 307 and SR 308.
WSDOT is proposing to close the roadway at each location. During the work, a section of the roadway will be removed, and replaced with a fish-passable culvert or bridge. While the road is closed, signed detours will be provided.
The open houses are an opportunity for the public to provide input on these detours.
Kitsap 29 Fish Barrier Removal online open house
When: Now through Thursday, June 26 Where: engage.wsdot.wa.gov/kitsap-29-fish-barrier-removal/ Details: Information is available online 24/7 for people to visit and leave comments whenever best fits their schedule.
Kitsap 29 Fish Barrier Removal in-person open houses
When: 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, June 2, 2025 Where: North Kitsap High School Commons 1780 NE Hostmark St. Poulsbo, WA 98370
When: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 5, 2025 Where: Hilder Pearson Elementary School Gym 15650 Central Valley Road NW, Poulsbo, WA 98370
Details: The in-person open house will have the same information as the online open house. Project team members will be available to explain the project, answer questions and take comments. A translator fluent in Spanish will be present. There is no formal presentation. Attendees are welcome to drop by anytime during the two-hour event.
Free, temporary internet access is available to those who do not have broadband service. To find the nearest Drive-In WiFi Hotspot visit the Department of Commerce website.
Free WiFi access is available at these locations for people who wish to participate in the online open house:
Kitsap Regional Library, 700 NE Lincoln Road, Poulsbo, WA 98370
Kitsap Regional Library, 3650 NW Anderson Hill Road, Suite 101, Silverdale, WA 98383
In fact, last week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers made clear that the priority for the government’s second term will be to boost productivity. This crucial measure of how much we produce for every hour we work rises a little every year. But growth has slowed over the past decade.
As part of this, the federal government has tasked the Productivity Commission with a new strategy to enhance productivity. A draft report is expected in July or August, with implementable ideas across five key pillars.
So far, however, one part of the solution to the productivity slump has received little public attention: boosting support for scientific research.
Productivity relies on science
Science can help boost national economic productivity in many ways.
For one, scientific innovation and creativity can create high value goods and services for both Australian and international markets. And translating this research into real-world economic benefits builds a workforce that combines science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills with business skills.
This is important because it fosters technological innovation and supports evidence-based decision making. It also empowers individuals to solve complex problems in the face of technological change. This ultimately drives productivity growth.
Australian scientific solutions will also need to be at the fore if the Future Made in Australia agenda is to realise its goal of stronger public-private sector relationships and a more resilient economy.
The so-called fourth industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0, refers to the rapid digitisation and automation of manufacturing industry technologies and processes. It not only relies on science to realise the enormous opportunities of digital technologies, but also to ensure they are harnessed sustainably.
The government seems to recognise the role scientific research and innovation can play in boosting productivity.
For example, in 2024 it fully launched the Australian Economic Accelerator, which was announced by the former Coalition government two years earlier. This scheme is designed to foster and build productivity by supporting university research in Australia that has the potential for commercialisation.
But there are still some fundamental problems in the world of science that are limiting productivity growth in Australia.
A widening gap
One of these problems relates to research and development – or R&D – funding.
Australia’s investment in R&D as a percentage of gross domestic product has been declining for many years. It has dropped from 2.25% in 2008–9 to 1.68% in 2021–22. At the same time, other advanced economies have increased their R&D spending, leading to a widening gap. The OECD average is 2.7%.
Multiple leading bodies have called out this decline as a threat to Australia’s long-term productivity. That’s because R&D spending in science fosters innovation and creativity – two major factors in productivity growth.
Another problem is the declining support for fundamental science which isn’t done with any application in mind, but can be equally important in the long term to enhancing productivity.
Consider the discovery of penicillin. Or of the double helix structure of DNA. These are just some scientific breakthroughs that were not initially focused on practical applications, but ultimately proved transformative.
This kind of scientific research requires sustained support, allowing knowledge to grow. We have seen the results of this in action and its impact even more recently. Scientists had worked on mRNA vaccines for decades before the vaccine breakthrough achieved during the COVID pandemic.
A nation at a crossroads
Australia is at a crossroads. Simply increasing funding in the short term through measures such as Australia’s Economic Accelerator is, at best, a band-aid solution. What’s needed to properly tackle the problem is thoughtful reform and long-term, strategic planning to secure the nation’s prosperity for decades to come.
There is some hope for this, thanks to the government’s comprehensive review of the R&D sector. This review aims to align R&D with national priorities, maximise the value of existing investments, harness public-private partnerships, and strengthen collaboration between research and industry.
By implementing robust R&D reforms and driving productivity across all sectors, Australia can set itself up for sustained growth and international influence.
Deanna D’Alessandro receives funding from the Australian Research Council.
Kate Harrison Brennan was an Advisor to former Prime Minister Julia Gillard and is a member of the Australian Labor Party.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07) and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) are introducing the Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act, in the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate. This legislation would posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her immortal “HeLa cells” which have made invaluable contributions to global health, scientific research, our quality of life, and patients’ rights. Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions.
The bill receives support from Members of the Maryland Congressional Delegation, including Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Representatives Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04), April McClain Delaney (D-MD-06), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), and Johnny Olszewski (D-MD-02). These lawmakers makeup 27 Members of the U.S. House who have signed on as original cosponsors. The legislation is also endorsed by HELA100: Henrietta Lacks Initiative and the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group (HLLG).
“I am honored to introduce this legislation in the U.S. House to provide both the spirit of Mrs. Lacks and her descendants the gratitude and recognition this lineage deserves. Her ‘HeLa cells’ have altered the future of medical science, and the world continues to benefit from Mrs. Lacks’ contributions and sacrifice,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “During a time in our country where the Trump administration shamefully seeks to erase Black history from the American story, the legacies of Black historymakers like Mrs. Lacks must be uplifted, and we must continue to deliver our message back to President Trump: you erase it, we will replace it,” he concluded.
“Without knowing it at the time of her cancer treatment, Henrietta Lacks would go on to change the course of modern medicine. Her cells unlocked a breakthrough in medical research, leading to treatments and cures that are bettering people’s lives to this day. But Mrs. Lacks never consented to the use of her cells – nor did she receive rightful credit for the monumental contributions she made. That’s why it’s all the more important that we recognize her with the Congressional Gold Medal, Congress’ highest expression of appreciation,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen.
“The Lacks Family is grateful to our friends Congressman Kweisi Mfume and Senator Chris Van Hollen for their leadership and continued commitment toward awarding a Congressional Gold Medal to my grandmother, Henrietta Lacks,” said Alfred Lacks Carter, Jr., grandson of Henrietta Lacks. “This Mother’s Day has even more meaning. I applaud the introduction of this Act in the spirit of my mother, Deborah Lacks, who worked tirelessly to ensure that her mother, Henrietta Lacks, was celebrated as the Mother of Modern Medicine,” he concluded.
“Awarding Henrietta Lacks a Congressional Gold Medal as the world celebrates her 105th birthday this year is truly a fitting honor. Our Hennie’s contributions to science, medicine, and research have saved lives and created cures – here in the U.S. and worldwide. As my grandfather, Lawrence Lacks, Sr., Henrietta Lacks’ eldest son, often said, ‘We are proud of all the good that she has done for the world.’ As the next generation, we are reclaiming her story to make certain the world recognizes her impact,” said Veronica Robinson, Senior Advisor, HELA100: Henrietta Lacks Initiative, great granddaughter of Henrietta Lacks.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group (HLLG), it is our pleasure to write this letter of support for your bill that would award posthumously a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her immortal cells that have had a revolutionary effect on modern medicine and other scientific innovations,” wrote Dr. Adele Newson-Horst, Chair, HLLG Board of Directors and Servant Courtney Speed, Founder and President, HLLG.
In 1951, it was discovered that Mrs. Henrietta Lacks, of Baltimore, had a large, malignant tumor on her cervix. However, unbeknownst to Mrs. Lacks or her family, medical researchers took samples of her tumor during her treatment without her consent. Henrietta Lacks’ cells, now known as ‘‘HeLa cells,” doubled every 20 to 24 hours whereas other human cells died in the same time period.
Lacks’ prolific cells continue to replicate to this day and contribute to remarkable advances in medicine resulting in several Nobel Prize award-winning discoveries and groundbreaking advancements. These scientific discoveries include the development of the polio vaccine and drugs used to treat cancer, HIV/AIDS, hemophilia, leukemia, and Parkinson’s disease. Her cells were even sent into space to survey long-term effects on living cells and tissues.
The bill text for the Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act is available by clicking here.
The Life of Henrietta Lacks
Henrietta Lacks was born in Roanoke, Virginia in 1920 and later moved to Baltimore, Maryland with her husband and family of 5 children.
At the age of 31, she sought treatment from The Johns Hopkins Hospital for prolonged bleeding.
At the time, the hospital was one of a few that would treat African Americans. Shortly after her admission to the hospital, she was diagnosed with an aggressive cervical cancer that would lead to her untimely death only 8 months later.
This tragedy left Henrietta Lacks’ husband and 5 children to go on without her.
Despite Mrs. Lacks’ passing, her life continued under unique circumstances. Researchers took cells from Henrietta Lacks without her consent or the consent of her relatives and discovered that they were unlike any other known cells before.
Mrs. Lacks’ cells, now referred to as, “HeLa cells,” were remarkably durable and prolific, which allowed them to be used extensively in scientific research.
The cells had the unparalleled capacity to reproduce and were deemed immortal; meaning, where other human cells would die, “HeLa cells” doubled every 20 to 24 hours.
Henrietta Lacks’ immortal cells have been used by researchers, resulting in several Nobel Prize award-winning discoveries and groundbreaking advancements.
These scientific discoveries include the development of the polio vaccine and drugs used to treat cancer, HIV/AIDS, hemophilia, leukemia, and Parkinson’s disease. Her cells were even sent into space to survey long-term effects on living cells and tissues.
Henrietta Lacks’ story garnered the attention of the nation and was chronicled in a Primetime Emmy Award-nominated HBO film entitled, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.”
In October of 2024, Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine broke ground on the Henrietta Lacks Building.
The new 34,000-square-foot building will be located on the East Baltimore campus and support multiple programs of the Berman Institute, Johns Hopkins University and the School of Medicine, and will house flexible program and classroom space for educational, research, and community use purposes.
