Pope Francis delivers the Angelus noon prayer in St. Peter’s Square, at the Vatican, on Nov. 10, 2024.AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia
In January 2025, while doing research at the Vatican archives, I heard Pope Francis’ Sunday prayers in St. Peter’s Square. The pope reflected on the ceasefire that had just gone into effect in Gaza, highlighting the role of mediators, the need for humanitarian aid, and his hope for a two-state solution.
“Let us pray always for tormented Ukraine, for Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and all the populations who are suffering because of war,” he concluded. “I wish you all a good Sunday, and please, do not forget to pray for me. Enjoy your lunch, and arrivederci!”
A few weeks later, Francis was admitted to the hospital, where he remained for more than a month, receiving treatment for double pneumonia.
In those weeks of uncertainty, I thought back to the pope’s words that Sunday afternoon. They encapsulate Francis’ image: a spiritual leader using his influence to try to bring peace. He is also a down-to-earth man who wishes you “buon appetito.”
Francis does not fear addressing contemporary politics, unlike many of his predecessors. And some popes have closed their eyes to not just current events but past ones: learning and history that threatened their vision of the church.
As a medievalist, I appreciate Francis’ contrasting approach: a religious leader who embraces history and scholarship, and encourages others to do the same – even as book bans and threats to academic freedom mount.
People in St. Peter’s Square watch a broadcast as Pope Francis makes his first appearance since entering the hospital. AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia
Even before the index, church leaders permitted little flexibility of thought. In the decades leading up to it, however, the church doubled down in response to new challenges: the rapid spreading of the printing press and the Protestant Reformation.
The Catholic Counter-Reformation, which took shape at the Council of Trent from 1545-1563, reinforced dogmatism in its effort to rebuke reformers. The council decided that the Vulgate, a Latin translation of the Bible, was enough to understand scripture, and there was little need to investigate its original Greek and Hebrew version.
Bishops and the Vatican began producing lists of titles that were forbidden to print and read. Between 1571-1917, the Sacred Congregation of the Index, a special unit of the Vatican, investigated writings and compiled the lists of banned readings approved by the pope. Catholics who read titles on the Index of Forbidden Books risked excommunication.
Historian J.M de Bujanda has completed the most comprehensive list of books forbidden across the ages by the Catholic Church. Its authors include astronomer Johannes Kepler and Galileo, as well as philosophers across centuries, from Erasmus and René Descartes to feminist Simone de Beauvoir and existentialist Jean-Paul Sartre. Then there are the writers: Michel de Montaigne, Voltaire, Denis Diderot, David Hume, historian Edward Gibbon and Gustave Flaubert. In sum, the index is a who’s who of science, literature and history.
Love of humanities
Compare that with a letter Francis published on Nov. 21, 2024, emphasizing the importance of studying church history – particularly for priests, to better understand the world they live in. For the pope, history research “helps to keep ‘the flame of collective conscience’ alive.”
The pope advocated for studying church history in a way that is unfiltered and authentic, flaws included. He emphasized primary sources and urged students to ask questions. Francis criticized the view that history is mere chronology – rote memorization that fails to analyze events.
In 2019, Francis changed the name of the Vatican Secret Archives to the Vatican Apostolic Archives. Though the archives themselves had already been open to scholars since 1881, “secret” connotes something “revealed and reserved for a few,” Francis wrote. Under Francis, the Vatican opened the archives on Pope Pius XII, allowing research on his papacy during World War II, his knowledge of the Holocaust and his general response toward Nazi Germany.
In addition to showing respect for history, the pope has emphasized his own love of reading. “Each new work we read will renew and expand our worldview,” he wrote in a letter to future priests, published July 17, 2024.
Today, he continued, “veneration” of screens, with their “toxic, superficial and violent fake news” has diverted us from literature. The pope shared his experience as a young Jesuit literature instructor in Santa Fe, then added a sentence that would have stupefied “index popes.”
“Naturally, I am not asking you to read the same things that I did,” he stated. “Everyone will find books that speak to their own lives and become authentic companions for their journey.”
Citing his compatriot, the novelist Jorge Luis Borges, Francis reminded Catholics that to read is to “listen to another person’s voice. … We must never forget how dangerous it is to stop listening to the voice of other people when they challenge us!”
When Francis dies or resigns, the Vatican will remain deeply divided between progressives and conservatives. So are modern democracies – and in many places, the modern trend leans toward nationalism, fascismand censorship.
But Francis will leave a phenomenal rebuttal. One of the pope’s greatest achievements, in my view, will have been his engagement with the humanities and humanity – with a deep understanding of the challenges it faces.
Joëlle Rollo-Koster does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Ruth and Phil have dedicated their lives to fostering, providing a loving and stable home to children and young parents in need. This March, they will celebrate an incredible 35 years as foster carers, a journey that has touched the lives of over 300 children. Their story is one of kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others, making an invaluable contribution to the fostering community.
Over the years, fostering has evolved, becoming more professional with better support and respect for carers. Ruth and Phil have embraced these changes, adapting to new training and digital record-keeping. One of Ruth’s unique approaches is writing letters to the children in her care, rather than just keeping bullet-pointed notes. “It gives them a picture of their growing up,” she explains. “When they look back, they won’t just see reports and assessments; they’ll see their own story, their milestones, and memories.”
Specialising in parent and child fostering, Ruth and Phil offer a safe home for young parents and their babies, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood. They have supported young mothers, some arriving before birth and others straight from the hospital, ensuring they receive the care and guidance needed to develop their parenting skills. Their role requires 24/7 support, attending appointments and being constantly available, yet they describe it as incredibly rewarding. “You see the difference you’re making every day,” says Phil. “Watching a young mum grow in confidence, seeing her bond with her baby, and knowing you’ve helped create that stability—it’s an amazing feeling.”
Their dedication extends beyond fostering. Ruth has worked closely with local authority professionals to improve awareness and support for parent and child fostering, advocating for better resources and recognition. Despite the difficulties of recruiting carers for this specialised role, she remains committed to encouraging others to step forward. “If you have the heart for it, don’t let doubts hold you back,” she advises. “Start the process, have the conversations—you never know where it might lead.”
Family is at the heart of Ruth and Phil’s fostering journey. With five children of their own, 14 grandchildren, and their first great-grandchild on the way, they embrace every foster child and parent as part of their extended family. “From the moment they walk through our door, they’re family,” Ruth says.
Ruth and Phil’s impact on fostering cannot be overstated. Their years of dedication, their ability to create a home filled with love and learning, and their passion for helping young parents succeed make them truly remarkable. Their story is one of hope, compassion, and the power of family.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands praised Ruth and Phil’s dedication, stating,
Their commitment to fostering is truly inspiring. Their specialist skills in parent and child placements provide invaluable support to local authorities, helping vulnerable families stay together. They’ve changed countless lives, offering stability, love, and guidance to children and young parents in need.
Right now, there is an urgent need for local authority foster carers. Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, over 3,300 children are in care, but only half find foster homes. More carers are needed for children of all ages, especially for siblings, teenagers, children with special need and parent and child.
Foster for East Midlands Councils, is a regional fostering hub which was launched in collaboration with four local councils in May 2024 to enhance recruitment and support for foster carers. This dedicated team guides prospective carers through every step of the process from enquiry to application. Once approved the support network of the councils provides 24/7 support and comprehensive training ensuring carers are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of children in their care.
For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, attend a fostering information event, or call us at 0303 3132 950.
Upcoming Foster for East Midlands Councils information events:
IN PERSON Wednesday 9 April, 6pm to 7pm, Tesco Bulwell, NottinghamNG6 8EQ,
ONLINE Tuesday 15 April,12pm to 1pm, join our zoom call.
IN PERSON Wednesday 23 April, 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Buxton Methodist Church, Chapel Street, BuxtonSK17 6HX
IN PERSON Thursday 8 May, 5pm to 6pm, Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Newark-On-Trent, Nottinghamshire NG24 1UW
Ruth and Phil have dedicated their lives to fostering, providing a loving and stable home to children and young parents in need. This March, they will celebrate an incredible 35 years as foster carers, a journey that has touched the lives of over 300 children. Their story is one of kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others, making an invaluable contribution to the fostering community.
Over the years, fostering has evolved, becoming more professional with better support and respect for carers. Ruth and Phil have embraced these changes, adapting to new training and digital record-keeping. One of Ruth’s unique approaches is writing letters to the children in her care, rather than just keeping bullet-pointed notes. “It gives them a picture of their growing up,” she explains. “When they look back, they won’t just see reports and assessments; they’ll see their own story, their milestones, and memories.”
Specialising in parent and child fostering, Ruth and Phil offer a safe home for young parents and their babies, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood. They have supported young mothers, some arriving before birth and others straight from the hospital, ensuring they receive the care and guidance needed to develop their parenting skills. Their role requires 24/7 support, attending appointments and being constantly available, yet they describe it as incredibly rewarding. “You see the difference you’re making every day,” says Phil. “Watching a young mum grow in confidence, seeing her bond with her baby, and knowing you’ve helped create that stability—it’s an amazing feeling.”
Their dedication extends beyond fostering. Ruth has worked closely with local authority professionals to improve awareness and support for parent and child fostering, advocating for better resources and recognition. Despite the difficulties of recruiting carers for this specialised role, she remains committed to encouraging others to step forward. “If you have the heart for it, don’t let doubts hold you back,” she advises. “Start the process, have the conversations—you never know where it might lead.”
Family is at the heart of Ruth and Phil’s fostering journey. With five children of their own, 14 grandchildren, and their first great-grandchild on the way, they embrace every foster child and parent as part of their extended family. “From the moment they walk through our door, they’re family,” Ruth says.
Ruth and Phil’s impact on fostering cannot be overstated. Their years of dedication, their ability to create a home filled with love and learning, and their passion for helping young parents succeed make them truly remarkable. Their story is one of hope, compassion, and the power of family.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands praised Ruth and Phil’s dedication, stating, “Their commitment to fostering is truly inspiring. Their specialist skills in parent and child placements provide invaluable support to local authorities, helping vulnerable families stay together. They’ve changed countless lives, offering stability, love, and guidance to children and young parents in need.”
Right now, there is an urgent need for local authority foster carers. Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, over 3,300 children are in care, but only half find foster homes. More carers are needed for children of all ages, especially for siblings, teenagers, children with special need and parent and child.
Foster for East Midlands Councils, is a regional fostering hub which was launched in collaboration with four local councils in May 2024 to enhance recruitment and support for foster carers. This dedicated team guides prospective carers through every step of the process from enquiry to application. Once approved the support network of the councils provides 24/7 support and comprehensive training ensuring carers are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of children in their care.
For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, attend a fostering information event, or call us at 0303 3132 950.
Upcoming Foster for East Midlands Councils information events:
IN PERSON Wednesday 9 April, 6pm to 7pm, Tesco Bulwell, NottinghamNG6 8EQ,
ONLINE Tuesday 15 April,12pm to 1pm, join our zoom call.
IN PERSON Wednesday 23 April, 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Buxton Methodist Church, Chapel Street, BuxtonSK17 6HX
IN PERSON Thursday 8 May, 5pm to 6pm, Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Newark-On-Trent, Nottinghamshire NG24 1UW
Ruth and Phil have dedicated their lives to fostering, providing a loving and stable home to children and young parents in need. This March, they will celebrate an incredible 35 years as foster carers, a journey that has touched the lives of over 300 children. Their story is one of kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others, making an invaluable contribution to the fostering community.
Over the years, fostering has evolved, becoming more professional with better support and respect for carers. Ruth and Phil have embraced these changes, adapting to new training and digital record-keeping. One of Ruth’s unique approaches is writing letters to the children in her care, rather than just keeping bullet-pointed notes. “It gives them a picture of their growing up,” she explains. “When they look back, they won’t just see reports and assessments; they’ll see their own story, their milestones, and memories.”
Specialising in parent and child fostering, Ruth and Phil offer a safe home for young parents and their babies, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood. They have supported young mothers, some arriving before birth and others straight from the hospital, ensuring they receive the care and guidance needed to develop their parenting skills. Their role requires 24/7 support, attending appointments and being constantly available, yet they describe it as incredibly rewarding. “You see the difference you’re making every day,” says Phil. “Watching a young mum grow in confidence, seeing her bond with her baby, and knowing you’ve helped create that stability—it’s an amazing feeling.”
Their dedication extends beyond fostering. Ruth has worked closely with local authority professionals to improve awareness and support for parent and child fostering, advocating for better resources and recognition. Despite the difficulties of recruiting carers for this specialised role, she remains committed to encouraging others to step forward. “If you have the heart for it, don’t let doubts hold you back,” she advises. “Start the process, have the conversations—you never know where it might lead.”
Family is at the heart of Ruth and Phil’s fostering journey. With five children of their own, 14 grandchildren, and their first great-grandchild on the way, they embrace every foster child and parent as part of their extended family. “From the moment they walk through our door, they’re family,” Ruth says.
Ruth and Phil’s impact on fostering cannot be overstated. Their years of dedication, their ability to create a home filled with love and learning, and their passion for helping young parents succeed make them truly remarkable. Their story is one of hope, compassion, and the power of family.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands praised Ruth and Phil’s dedication, stating, “Their commitment to fostering is truly inspiring. Their specialist skills in parent and child placements provide invaluable support to local authorities, helping vulnerable families stay together. They’ve changed countless lives, offering stability, love, and guidance to children and young parents in need.”
Right now, there is an urgent need for local authority foster carers. Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, over 3,300 children are in care, but only half find foster homes. More carers are needed for children of all ages, especially for siblings, teenagers, children with special need and parent and child.
Foster for East Midlands Councils, is a regional fostering hub which was launched in collaboration with four local councils in May 2024 to enhance recruitment and support for foster carers. This dedicated team guides prospective carers through every step of the process from enquiry to application. Once approved the support network of the councils provides 24/7 support and comprehensive training ensuring carers are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of children in their care.
For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, attend a fostering information event, or call us at 0303 3132 950.
Upcoming Foster for East Midlands Councils information events:
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units
1,480,000
Placement period, in days
4
Date of deposit
03/28/2025
Refund date
01.04.2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)
Fix
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum
20.05
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds
–
Minimum spread, % per annum
–
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)
Urgent
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units
1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.
5
Application selection form (open or closed)
Open
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications
PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:
from 09:30 to 09:40
Preliminary applications:
from 09:30 to 09:35
Applications in competition mode:
from 09:35 to 09:40
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:
from 09:40 to 09:50
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:
from 09:40 to 10:00
Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement:
from 10:00 to 10:50
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:
from 10:00 to 10:50
Deposit transfer time
In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
Application selection parameters
Date of the selection of applications
03/28/2025
Unique identifier of the application selection
22025078
Deposit currency
rubles
Type of funds
funds of the single treasury account
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units
100,000
Placement period, in days
182
Date of deposit
03/28/2025
Refund date
09/26/2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)
Flotting
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum
–
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds
Ruonmds
Minimum spread, % per annum
0.00
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)
Special
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units
1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.
5
Application selection form (open or closed)
Closed
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications
PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:
from 12:00 to 12:10
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:
from 12:10 to 12:20
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:
from 12:10 to 12:30
Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement:
from 12:30 to 13:20
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:
from 12:30 to 13:20
Deposit transfer time
In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where
RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.
DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.
Application selection parameters
Date of the selection of applications
03/28/2025
Unique identifier of the application selection
22025079
Deposit currency
rubles
Type of funds
funds of the single treasury account
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units
500,000
Placement period, in days
14
Date of deposit
03/28/2025
Refund date
04/11/2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)
Flotting
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum
–
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds
Ruonmds
Minimum spread, % per annum
0.00
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)
Urgent
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units
1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.
5
Application selection form (open or closed)
Open
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications
PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:
from 16:00 to 16:10
Preliminary applications:
from 16:00 to 16:05
Applications in competition mode:
from 16:05 to 16:10
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:
from 16:10 to 16:20
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:
from 16:10 to 16:30
Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement:
from 16:30 to 17:20
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:
from 16:30 to 17:20
Deposit transfer time
In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where
RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.
DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.
Application selection parameters
Date of the selection of applications
03/28/2025
Unique identifier of the application selection
22025080
Deposit currency
rubles
Type of funds
funds of the single treasury account
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units
10,000
Placement period, in days
4
Date of deposit
03/28/2025
Refund date
01.04.2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)
Fix
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum
20.05
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds
–
Minimum spread, % per annum
–
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)
Urgent
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units
1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.
5
Application selection form (open or closed)
Open
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications
PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:
from 18:30 to 18:40
Preliminary applications:
from 18:30 to 18:35
Applications in competition mode:
from 18:35 to 18:40
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:
from 18:40 to 18:50
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:
from 18:40 to 18:50
Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement:
from 18:50 to 19:30
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:
from 18:50 to 19:30
Deposit transfer time
In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom
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Parameters: Date of the deposit auction 03/28/2025. Placement currency RUB. Maximum amount of funds placed (in the placement currency) 2,610,000,000.00 Placement term, days 31. Date of depositing funds 03/28/2025. Date of return of funds 04/28/2025. Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum 21.00 Terms of the conclusion, urgent or special (Urgent). Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in the placement currency) 2,610,000,000.00 Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1. Auction form, open or closed (Open).
The basis of the Agreement is the General Agreement. Schedule (Moscow time). Applications in preliminary mode from 12:30 to 12:40. Applications in competitive mode from 12:40 to 12:45. Setting the cutoff percentage rate or declaring the auction invalid before 12:55.
Additional terms
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In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on March 28, 2025, 10:30 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 94.06) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 859.11 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 21.25%) of the security RU000A107936 (RZhD 1P-29R) were changed.
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Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on March 28, 2025, 10:35 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 76.5) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 749.83 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 13.75%) of the RU000A1031U3 (VEB1P-26) security were changed.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
Sarah Wambui Chege monitors a patient in active labour and listens to the baby’s activity at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, a government county referral hospital serving the residents of Nairobi’s populous Eastlands area. Photo credit: WHO/Khadija Farah
Globally each year 287,000 women die in pregnancy or childbirth. Most maternal deaths are caused by severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, complications from unsafe abortion, and underlying conditions that can be aggravated by pregnancy (such as HIV/AIDS and malaria).
Most maternal deaths are preventable with access to high quality healthcare. Ending preventable maternal death must remain at the top of the global agenda.
WHO works with a range of partners and national health authorities across its six Regions to strengthen maternal health services for all pregnant women. Read below powerful stories about a wide range of WHO activities, with many women’s lives being saved, thanks to donors’ support.
Driving down maternal mortality in Mozambique
In Mozambique, a protracted civil war had a devastating impact on public health services and infrastructure. In 2000, Mozambique had one of the world’s highest rates of maternal mortality, with roughly 1 in 160 women dying from pregnancy or childbirth complications.
The country has since made significant strides by making maternal health one of its top priorities. In 2023, Mozambique’s maternal mortality ratio was 223 deaths per 100 000 live births; a 53% drop in maternal mortality since 2000.
Several critical interventions have contributed to this. Between 2017 and 2021, 106 new health facilities opened across the country, increasing access to health services, and the number of human resources for health and health technicians increased by around 15%.
WHO supported the country to establish a maternal death surveillance and response system, provided technical and financial support to the Ministry of Health to update the training package on Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care, and trained 40 national trainers across all 11 of Mozambique’s provinces. In 2021, WHO collaborated with health authorities to shape a comprehensive community health strategy.
Cambodia’s sustained progress in improving maternal, newborn and child health
A nurse is assisting a mother breastfeeding in a referral provincial hospital in Cambodia. WHO/Yoshi Shimizu
In early 2000’s, Cambodia faced alarming maternal, newborn and child health indicators. The maternal mortality ratio stood at 437 per 100 000 live births, while newborn and child mortality rate accounted for 37 and 124 per 1000 live births respectively.
Today, skilled birth attendance is near universal, with 98.7% of births attended by trained health professionals and 97.5% of women giving birth in a health facility. Between 2014 and 2021-2022, neonatal and under-five mortality rates declined by 54%, from 18 to 8 and from 35 to 16 per 1000 live births respectively. Cambodia achieved its SDG targets for reducing neonatal and under-five mortality eight years ahead of schedule.
The strong leadership of the Ministry of Health provided clear strategies for advancing maternal and newborn health. Two coordination platforms were established and convened regularly to align efforts within the Ministry and with health partners. With technical dsupport from WHO and funding from the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare, the Early Essential Newborn Care Coordination Committee plays a crucial role in harmonizing national and sub-national efforts, monitoring progress through regular reviews, mobilizing resources to scale up practices, and ensure consistency in care delivery.
Working with traditional birth attendants in Latin America
Mercedes Panamantamba, traditional birth attendant from Otavalo, Ecuador, receives training provided by PAHO on the use of biomedical tools to complement ancestral practices. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO
In rural and remote communities of Latin America, ancestral practices such as traditional midwifery have been passed down from generation to generation. In these areas, where geographical barriers and cultural differences can hinder access to healthcare centres, the practical and spiritual support of traditional birth attendants can make the difference between life and death.
The WHO Region for the Americas (Pan American Health Organization – PAHO), with support from the Government of Canada, has been working with over a thousand traditional birth attendants in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, and Peru since 2021 to provide them with knowledge of warning signs to help prevent maternal and neonatal deaths.
PAHO conducted training sessions and knowledge dialogues on topics such as family planning, prenatal care, identification of warning signs, and childbirth care. Meetings have yielded results that can benefit the entire region, such as the development of the tool for promoting culturally safe childbirth.
These activities are part of ‘Improved health of women and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability’, a joint project between PAHO and Global Affairs Canada.
Dorcas Simon, an informal trader in Kigoma region, Tanzania, who said it took the timely transportation of her newborn child and her to the hospital to save their lives. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah
In Kigoma region, Tanzania, maternal mortality was on the rise due to difficult access to health facilities and other factors. The region had limited capacity in terms of a referral system and diagnostic capacity.
“Looking at the year 2020, we had 119 maternal deaths. In 2021, they dropped to 75 but in 2022 there were 102 deaths.” Dr Jesca Leba, Regional Medical Officer, Ministry of Health, Kigoma Region, Tanzania.
The Government of Tanzania with support from WHO and partners set out to address this problem. With funding from the Norwegian Embassy, WHO procured ambulances for easy transportation of pregnant women. The ambulances have so far served over 2000 women from various districts across the region. Additionally, 15 ultrasound machines were provided for health facilities and 300 health workers were trained how to use them.
The Chief Medical Officer in Buhigwe District Health Centre appreciates the donor support with ultrasound equipment that expanded the centre’s capacity to provide services. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah
Today, the Kigoma region has since witnessed a sharp decline in maternal mortality from 119 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births in 2020 to just 26 in 2024.
Birth plan helps reduce maternal deaths in Cote d’Ivoire
Ms Konaté followed the entire process of the birth plan. Her baby was born in good conditions at the urban health center in the Belleville district, in Bouaké. She is congratulated by the midwife who gives her the baby. Photo credit: WHO Côte d’Ivoire
In Cote d’Ivoire, in 2017, the maternal mortality rate was 614 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births, (Demographic Health Survey 2012) far from the target of 140 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births expected by 2030. In 2021, WHO, with support from the Swedish Government and the French MUSKOKA fund, targeted the Gbeke region, which has one of the highest mortality rates in the country, through the “Gbeke Là-Haut Là” initiative.
The initiative included implementation of a childbirth preparation or delivery plan, starting with first prenatal consultations, an emergency trolley in the delivery room and capacity-building for midwives in the management of risk factors during pregnancy and childbirth.
By 2022, 46% of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics benefited from a childbirth preparation plan, compared to none previously. 181 midwives from 18 health facilities were trained in key life-saving clinical skills.
Between 2019 and 2022, the proportion of maternal deaths at Bouake University Hospital from the 3 urban health districts of Gbeke fell from 93% to 36%, a reduction of 57%. The proportion of maternal deaths due to post-partum haemorrhage fell by 27%, from 56% to 29%.
Close patient monitoring by nurses in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Gatot Soebroto Army Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. As one of the SMART recommendations for mortality review. Photo credit: WHO/IndoXplore
WHO and European Union supported the Ministry of Health and partners to conduct crucial research on the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and newborn health and to better understand disruptions to essential health services, with the aim of building a stronger, more resilient health system.
Researchers analyzed the medical records of 4 945 pregnant women and their newborns and interviewed programme managers and health workers from eight selected hospitals in four provinces of Java Island.
WHO and the Ministry of Health will use the findings to inform the development of national guidelines aimed at strengthening the health system’s capacity to better respond to acute public health events and minimize disruptions to essential services, including for maternal and newborn health.
Maternal care services strengthened in Port au Prince, Haiti
The maternity ward at the Eliazar Germain Hospital. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and PAHO/WHO are jointly supporting 3 hospitals in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area to provide maternal health services. This is to support the emergency response of the Ministry of Health and Population and improve access to health care, made increasingly difficult by the current security situation.
Support includes the supply of essential medical equipment and products, and the installation of a reliable power supply system, ensuring constant availability of electricity. Support beyond maternity services responds to urgent needs in sexual and reproductive health. Kits for the management of abortion complications and kits for the management of sexual violence have been distributed for this purpose.
Saving lives in flood- and drought-affected areas in Somalia
WHO Representative to Somalia Dr Reinhilde Van de Weerdt (left) met with H.E. Mr OKANIWA Ken, Ambassador of Japan to Somalia, to express appreciation for Japan’s support. Photo credit: WHO Somalia/M. Saydahmat
A 12-month project led by the WHO Country Office in Somalia over the course of 2023 reached over 3 million people affected by drought or flood. The Government of Japan supported the project with a grant of over US$ 700 000. Working with the Ministry of Health and Human Services, WHO aims to mitigate the health impacts of recurrent climate shocks, food insecurity and disease outbreaks, especially cholera, while strengthening health system resilience.
Thanks to Japan’s funding, WHO was able to deploy 369 community health workers and 121 mobile outreach teams in drought-affected areas. These provided essential health and immunization services to local population with a special focus on children and pregnant and lactating women. The project aims to provide help to about 900 000 flood- and drought-affected people in Somalia.
Meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis
Meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis. Photo credit:WHO AFRO
In 2023, more than 72 500 people were displaced in Mali because of clashes between rival armed groups, inter-community conflicts and military operations by the Malian armed forces against non-state armed groups.
To help Mali maintain delivery of quality health services in areas impacted by insecurity, WHO, supported by UN CERF is providing medicines and other consumables to the Health Ministry, and helping to upskill health workers on the ground. WHO is also supporting mobile clinics to reach isolated populations in the centre of Menaka and the two districts worst impacted by the insecurity, Tidermane and Anderamboukane.
Thanks to the mobile clinics, Aissata, a displaced person in Ménaka city centre, was able to receive the care she needed. She was monitored throughout her pregnancy, which saved her life and that of her baby. “If it wasn’t for the free consultation that day, I don’t know what I would have done,” the young mother says.
WHO urges expansion of lifesaving midwifery care for women and babies
Shakila, midwife, measuring height of the fundus on a pregnant woman at the mobile clinic organized by WHO at the Garm Abak of Waras district in Bamiyan, Afghanistan. Photo credit: WHO/Rada Akbar
Strengthening midwives’ role in maternity and newborn care services would save millions of lives each year while significantly enhancing women’s overall experience of care, according to a new publication released by WHO and partners.
The publication, transitioning to midwifery models of care: A global position paper, outlines the benefits and key components of midwifery care models, where midwives serve, within broader teams, as the main healthcare provider for women and babies during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.
Recent modelling shows that universal access to midwifery care could avert more than 60% of all maternal and newborn deaths and stillbirths – amounting to 4.3 million lives saved annually by 2035.
The position paper on midwifery models of care was prepared by WHO together with a coalition of leading health professional associations, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and women’s group, including the Burnet Institute, Collectif interassociatif autour de la naissance, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Jhpiego, the UNFPA, and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with financial assistance from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Listen to WHO Director-General’s message on Linkedin thanking everyone who contributed for the development of the position paper.
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WHO’s work is made possible through all contributions of our Member States and partners. WHO thanks all donor countries, governments, organizations and individuals who are contributing to the Organization’s work, with special appreciation for those who provide fully flexible contributions to maintain a strong, independent WHO.
This feature reveals support of partners and donors from Burnet Institute (Collectif intersasociatif autour de la naissance), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Canada, CERF, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the European Union, International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Japan, Jhpiego, French MUSKOKA, Norway, Sweden, the UNFPA, and UNICEF.
New York, N.Y., March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that three additional professionals have joined its U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks, led by Professors Ian Farnan and Eugene Shwageraus. Cambridge AtomWorks personnel are leading the development of NANO Nuclear’s ODIN™, a low-pressure coolant microreactor.
Radwan Nassim Kheroua joins as a Nuclear Systems Engineer, Luke Godfrey as a Senior Nuclear Engineer, and Jake Miles as a Nuclear Engineer. Their appointments finalize NANO Nuclear’s latest round of additions to its engineering team, building on the previously announced roles for Andrew Steer, Ph.D., as NANO Nuclear’s Head of Regulatory Engagement and James Leybourn and Simon Boddington as Senior Nuclear Engineers.
Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Appoints Radwan Nassim Kheroua as Nuclear Systems Engineer, Luke Godfrey as Senior Nuclear Engineer, and Jake Miles as Nuclear Engineer.
Mr. Kheroua previously served as a Research Engineer in Reactor Thermal-Hydraulic Modeling at Framatome, where he carried out his first industrial research in nuclear fusion, working on plasma physics at CEA Cadarache and tritium monitoring with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority’s Culham Centre for Fusion Energy (UKAEA CCFE). He brings extensive expertise in reactor accident analysis and fuel safety case justification.
Mr. Godfrey previously served as Lead Thermohydraulic Engineer at Moltex, focusing on molten salt heat transfer, coupled reactor system modeling, and safety case development. During his time at Moltex, he was integral to designing the SSRW and FLEX reactors, leading thermal hydraulics, developing coupled simulation tools, contributing to safety cases development, planning verification and validation activities, and designing key experiments.
Mr. Miles earned a BSc in Physics from the University of Leeds and later completed a Master’s degree in Nuclear Energy at the University of Cambridge. He briefly researched reactor physics and shutdown systems for high-temperature gas-cooled reactors before transitioning to the nuclear maritime industry, where he specialized in modeling and simulation of Molten Chloride Fast Reactors and their systems. In his new role, he will focus on shielding design and core optimization for the ODIN microreactor, supporting the technology’s ongoing development.
“We are very pleased to continue expanding our engineering team with some of the top talent in the field of nuclear energy,” said Professor Ian Farnan, Lead of Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation and Materials of NANO Nuclear. “These additions bring us a wealth of technical knowledge and a deep understanding of nuclear technologies that will be leveraged to support the development and advancement of our proprietary microreactor systems.”
“With the additions of Mr. Kheroua, Mr. Godfrey and Mr. Miles, together with our other recent hires, I believe we are assembling a leading team of nuclear engineers,” said Professor Eugene Shwageraus, Lead of Nuclear Reactor Engineering of NANO Nuclear. “Their specialized expertise further strengthens our design process and supports a robust development schedule, ensuring we continue building on our momentum effectively.”
As NANO Nuclear continues to expand its operations, it remains committed to developing cutting-edge nuclear solutions that redefine the global energy landscape. The addition of Mr. Kheroua, Mr. Godfrey and Mr. Miles’ cutting-edge engineering talent will support NANO Nuclear’s endeavors to tackle the particular challenges associated with the ongoing development of the proprietary ‘ZEUS’ and ‘ODIN’ microreactors, as well as the KRONOS MMR™ Energy System and the LOKI MMR™high-efficiency nuclear systems for remote and off-grid applications.
“It is a pleasure to welcome our newest additions to the engineering team overseeing the development of the ODIN microreactor,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We’ve assembled a group of highly skilled professionals for this project, and I’m confident their arrival will significantly accelerate our development timeline and strengthen the ODIN microreactor’s path toward demonstration, regulatory approval and ultimately commercialization.”
About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.
NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.
Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor,and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.
Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.
HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.
NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.
This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements includes those related to the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of the appointment of the nuclear engineers, as well as the Company’s regulatory plans in general, each as described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) today released the following letter from Independent Director Bob Pease to the Company’s shareholders:
Shareholders of Phillips 66:
I joined the Phillips 66 Board of Directors in February 2024. My appointment came as a result of an agreement between Elliott Management and Phillips 66. At the time, Elliott Management said I would bring to the Board “extensive experience in refining and energy more broadly.”
Now Elliott wants me off the Board.
Today I’m writing you, our shareholders, to lay out the truth about the Phillips 66 Board and why my own view of Elliott’s campaign for change at the Phillips 66 has evolved.
I’ll start first with why I agreed to join the Phillips 66 Board in this relatively unusual manner. I’m a refinery guy first and foremost, holding numerous leadership roles, particularly in downstream businesses. When I joined the Board, Elliott’s primary demand was for Phillips 66 to improve its performance in refining. My experience was a perfect fit. Joining the Board then with Elliott’s endorsement felt like a win-win.
I worried that joining a board with the endorsement of a well-known activist hedge fund may not be the best way to win the hearts and minds of other board members. I have been around long enough to know human nature, so I believed it would take some time to have an impact on this Board.
I was wrong. My experience, insight and voice were immediately welcomed. In fact, I was encouraged early on to look closely at refining plans and challenge management.
The level of debate, in-depth analysis and looking under every stone that I have seen so far on this Board is exactly what shareholders should want in the Board room.
The Phillips 66 Board has delivered strong operational performance in refining while constantly exploring opportunities to create value across the full portfolio. Our integrated model has delivered synergies between the businesses and less volatile cash flows – it is a competitive advantage. We have set ambitious goals and are committed to maintaining best-in-class asset integrity while delivering a secure, competitive, and growing dividend; pursuing further accretive growth; and returning over 50% of our net operating cash flow to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends.
You simply don’t achieve results like this without a high functioning, deeply engaged Board.
In my view, it was Elliott’s inconsistent engagement that has proven most peculiar. There would be long silences, followed by rapid public action. What I saw from the Board was a clear commitment to getting to the right answer but a real struggle to understand and engage with an apparently highly distracted shareholder in Elliott.
We have only been met with a declaration that there were “no next steps” and then continued public assaults, even while Elliott refused to allow us to meet their nominees. Then came their notification that Elliott would in fact be running four nominees for election at the 2025 Annual General Meeting. With my re-nomination to the Board confirmed, that meant I would be targeted for replacement by Elliott’s nominees, just a year after they publicly supported me. I do not know why Elliott now wants me off the Board.
The Phillips 66 Board is committed to shareholder value creation.
We are committed to challenging management to deliver results. We are committed to acting, when necessary, but we are not a group that makes sweeping, irreversible costly change in response to short-term market fluctuations and speculative valuations.
We will always act in the best interest of our long-term shareholders for long-term value creation.
Sincerely,
Bob Pease Independent Director
About Phillips 66
Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
Forward-Looking Statements
This document contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “committed,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Additional Information
On March 26, 2025, Phillips 66 filed a preliminary proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) and accompanying WHITE proxy card with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with its 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2025 Annual Meeting”) and its solicitation of proxies for Phillips 66’s director nominees and for other matters to be voted on. The Proxy Statement is in preliminary form and Phillips 66 intends to file and mail to shareholders of record entitled to vote at the 2025 Annual Meeting a definitive proxy statement and other documents, including a WHITE proxy card. Phillips 66 may also file other relevant documents with the SEC regarding its solicitation of proxies for the 2025 Annual Meeting. This communication is not a substitute for any proxy statement or other document that Phillips 66 has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with any solicitation by Phillips 66. PHILLIPS 66 SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (AND ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ACCOMPANYING WHITE PROXY CARD AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT SOLICITATION MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SEC AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements to the Proxy Statement and other documents (including the WHITE proxy card) filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC without charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge at Phillips 66’s investor relations website at https://investor.phillips66.com or upon written request sent to Phillips 66, 2331 CityWest Boulevard, Houston, TX 77042, Attention: Investor Relations.
Certain Information Regarding Participants
Phillips 66, its directors, its director nominees and certain of its executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in connection with the solicitation of proxies from Phillips 66 shareholders in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the names of such persons and their respective interests in Phillips 66, by securities holdings or otherwise, is available in the Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC on March 26, 2025, and will be included in Phillips 66’s definitive proxy statement, once available, including in the sections captioned “Beneficial Ownership of Phillips 66 Securities” and “Appendix C: Supplemental Information Regarding Participants in the Solicitation.” To the extent that Phillips 66’s directors and executive officers who may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation have acquired or disposed of securities holdings since the applicable “as of” date disclosed in the Proxy Statement, such transactions have been or will be reflected on Statements of Changes in Ownership of Securities on Form 4 or Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 3 filed with the SEC. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Human Rights Situation in Mali
UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update of the Independent Expert on the Human Rights Situation in Mali. Delivered by the UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Thank You Mr Vice President.
We thank the Independent Expert for his report. His mandate is ever more vital following the withdrawal of the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). We also welcome the cooperation of the Malian authorities in facilitating the Expert’s first visit and encourage their continued collaboration.
As we have heard, the human rights situation remains grave. Increased reports of gender-based violence, and violence against children are particularly concerning. Civic space continues to shrink, key opposition figures remain detained, and civil society organisations disbanded.
We therefore encourage authorities to create the necessary conditions for free, fair and inclusive elections, as soon as possible.
Mr President, the UK urges the Malian authorities to further strengthen independent accountability mechanisms, including for alleged incidents committed by military personnel and Russian proxies. These actors continue to create deep-rooted insecurity for the Malian people.
Mr Gonzalez, as reports of human rights violations and abuses persist, international accountability processes remain vital to hold perpetrators to account. What more could the International Criminal Court do to enhance accountability under the existing referral?
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Decarbonisation in the maritime sector is a priority for the MCA
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is focussed on securing a clean, green maritime future for everyone.
The launch of the Department for Transport’s Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy is enforcement of just that, outlining ambitious goals for the maritime sector. This includes reducing fuel lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent by 2030, 80 per cent by 2040, and achieving zero emissions by 2050.
From supporting the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, which funds a diverse range of sustainable projects, to welcoming the world’s first dual-fuelled ammonia-powered vessel to the UK, the MCA is already at the forefront of supporting and developing these significant changes to the maritime sector.
Marine Guidance Notice 664 is just one important example of the MCA’s work in this field, which has enabled around 25 vessels using emission reduction, autonomy and other forms of ‘smart’ maritime technology to be considered using a flexible process as an alternative to prescriptive requirements.
MCA Director of UK Technical Maritime Services Fraser Heasley said:
Decarbonisation in the maritime sector has always been a priority for the MCA, with our experts advising on future fuels, the placement of wind farms, green shipping corridors, and training a new generation of green seafarers, but there is always more work to be done.
We welcome the Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy, and look forward to working further with DfT, industry, ship owners and operators, energy companies, investors, and research centres, to make the goals of the strategy a reality.
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The term structure of interest rates, i.e. the representation of the interest rates in dependence of the maturity, may have a complex course. Usually, it is increasing, meaning rates (per year) are higher for longer maturities. Depending on the horizon, the term structure can be modelled with a different number of parameters. The representation with more parameters increases the precision, but also increases the complexity, which may hamper the search for closed-form solutions for relevant variables. How many parameters are therefore optimal for which purpose and application?
Contribution
We present a model for the term structure of interest rates that depends on two parameters, namely one parameter for the short-term interest level and one parameter for the slope. This model makes it possible to derive closed-form solutions for important values of risk management (present value, duration and convexity) and we give a new interpretation to the convexity, namely as the sensitivity of a bond with respect to the slope of the term structure.
Results
In our study of Germany (period 1975-2023), we show empirically that the term structure of German government bonds can be well described by the presented model if the horizon is about one year (or longer). In different applications, we estimate the contribution of maturity transformation to the German banks’ interest income to about 12% and we deduce an estimate for the probability of the interest hike in 2022/23.
The second phase of the Spending Review is now underway and the government will set out its spending plans for future years, including funding for walking, wheeling and cycling later in the spring.
I am today informing Parliament of my intention to publish a third cycling and walking investment strategy (CWIS3) following the conclusion of the Spending Review. This will allow us to say more on the long-term funding for active travel, as required by the 2015 Infrastructure Act. The government will consult on CWIS3, with relevant stakeholders, ahead of its publication.
Dozens of emergency battery packs which will ensure power during storms have been handed over to community resilience groups and vulnerable people across Aberdeen.
Aberdeen City Council gave the potentially life-saving equipment to Peterculter Community Resilience Group, Cults, Milltimber and Bieldside Commnuity Resilience Group, Bridge of Don and Danestone Community Resilience Group, and Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership (ACHSCP).
Aberdeen City Council Communities, Housing, and Public Protection Committee vice convener Councillor Del Henrickson said: “We are very pleased to hand over the emergency power packs to these community organisations and ACHSCP.
“They will make a big difference to how communities can help themselves during storms or other incidents and could potentially be life-saving. We want to thank Scottish and Southern Energy’s Community Fund for their contribution, too.”
The resilience groups will use the packs to power equipment needed at rest centres during storms or other emergency incidents. They can use them to charge phones, use heaters, boil kettles and be more safe during power outages.
Neil Chalmers, a member of the Peterculter Resilience Group, said: “The members of our resilience team wish to extend their thanks to SSEN for funding this very useful piece of kit and to Aberdeen City Council for facilitating the donation. We are sure it will be a valuable asset for our community.
“Although we all hope to avoid power outages, knowing that we should be able to maintain operations in such circumstances is reassuring. We are looking forward to working out the best way to deploy it.”
ACHSCP is delivering the packs to vulnerable clients who reply on powered medical equipment.
Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership business, resilience and communications lead Martin Allan said: “Storms with power loss are difficult enough for most people but are particularly difficult for vulnerable people.
“The power packs being distributed to vulnerable people will make a huge difference to them staying connected with emergency services and keeping warm.”
Aberdeen City Council applied for funding for the scheme from Scottish and Southern Energy’s Community Fund where councils could apply for funds to help their local areas, in the wake of Storm Arwen in 2021/2022.
Gary Bartlett, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Distribution’s head of region, said: “It’s great to see the financial support we’ve provided to further improve the resilience of people and communities in the north-east coming to fruition in this way.
“The provision of safe and reliable battery packs will mean that more vulnerable people will now be able to stay in their familiar surroundings in the rare event their power goes off.
“Our funding for the purchase of dozens of battery packs is just one of the many ways we’re delivering greater resilience for the customers and communities we serve. The £100million we’re investing every year to make supplies for people in the north of Scotland ever more resilient means the network has become stronger and even more reliable. The provision of these battery packs will give some of our most vulnerable customers further peace of mind.”
Pic caption: Councillor Del Henrickson, Martin Allan of ACHSCP, Natalie Henderson of SSEN, Neil Chalmers of Peterculter Community Resilience Group, Gus Glass and Colin Morsley of Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Resilience Group, and Pastor Iain Duthie of Bridge of Don and Danestone Community Resilience Group
Vicon’s new markerless system enablingDreamscape Immersive’slatest VR experience
New location-based VR technology to launch at Dreamscape’s Geneva flagship store in partnership with Swiss research partner, Artanim
Oxford Metrics plc (LSE: OMG), the smart sensing and software company servicing life sciences, entertainment, engineering and smart manufacturing markets, announces that Vicon, its motion capture division, will be powering Dreamscape’s latest Location Based Virtual Reality (“LBVR”) experience, with its recently launched Vicon Markerless system.
For Dreamscape, markerless motion capture can now provide a more true-to-life adventure than any other immersive VR experience by allowing more free-flowing movement and exploration without the need for markers and less user gear. Bringing smoother user journeys, this technological upgrade also has a major impact on staff operations and will ultimately facilitate Dreamscape’s international locations rollout.
Located exclusively at their flagship store in Geneva, this new technology will be implemented across all industry sectors where Dreamscape is active including Entertainment, Education and Corporate solutions.
Entitled ‘The House of Wonders’, the new six person, markerless and multimodal LBVR experience has been created in partnership with Audemars Piguet, the Swiss haute horlogerie manufacturer. ‘The House of Wonders’ experience delves participants into the hidden depths of enchanting workshops, where they meet a cast of passionate artisans and participate in the creation of a mechanical marvel. The VR technology bringing the experience to life was developed in collaboration with Artanim, the Swiss research institute.
Imogen O’Connor, Oxford Metrics CEO commented on the collaboration:“Hot off the heels of our markerless launch, it’s great to announce that our innovative technology will be powering Dreamscape’s latest VR experience. Collaborating with Dreamscape on this project offered Vicon a unique opportunity to continue our work with a world leader in Location Based Virtual Reality and demonstrates the value of our markerless motion capture technology. This is only the beginning. Vicon’s system is a first-of-its-kind platform for markerless motion capture for creators, story tellers and 3D artists across Location Based Virtual Reality, Game, Film and Episodic TV.”
Commenting on the new experience, Caecilia Charbonnier, Co-founder & CIO of Dreamscape, said:“We’ve long anticipated the moment when markerless motion capture could transition from concept to reality, reaching the level of precision needed to unlock its full potential. With Vicon’s decades-long legacy of setting the gold standard in motion capture technology and Dreamscape’s unwavering mission to create seamless, immersive experiences, our collaboration on this project was a natural fit.”
The collaboration between Vicon and Artanim was key to ensure the desired requirements for the VR use case were met.
Sylvain Chagué, co-founder and CTO of Artanim and Dreamscape, said:“Delivering best in class virtual body ownership and immersion in VR demands both accurate tracking and very low latency. We dedicated substantial R&D efforts to evaluating computational performance of machine learning-based tracking algorithms, carefully implementing and refining this multi-modal tracking solution – seamlessly integrating full-body markerless motion capture and VR headset tracking for an unparalleled experience.”
For further information please contact:
Oxford Metrics
+44 (0) 1865 261860
Imogen O’Connor, CEO
Zoe Fox, CFO Emma Colven, Head of Communications
FTI Consulting
+44 (0)20 3727 1000
Matt Dixon / Emma Hall / Jemima Gurney
About Oxford Metrics
Oxford Metrics is a smart sensing and software company that enables the interface between the real world and its virtual twin. Our smart sensing technology helps over 10,000 customers in more than 70 countries, including all of the world’s top 10 games companies and all of the top 20 universities worldwide. Founded in 1984, we started our journey in healthcare, expanded into entertainment, winning an OSCAR® and an Emmy®, moved into defence, engineering and smart manufacturing. We have a strong track record of creating value by incubating, growing and then augmenting through acquisition, unique technology businesses.
The Group trades through its market-leading division Vicon, Industrial Vision Systems, and recently acquired, The Sempre Group. Vicon is a world leader in motion measurement analysis to thousands of customers worldwide, including Red Bull, Imperial College London, Dreamscape Immersive, Industrial Light & Magic, and NASA. Industrial Vision Systems is a specialist in machine vision software and technology for high precision, automated quality control systems trusted by blue-chip, smart manufacturing companies across the globe including BD, DePuy, Jaguar Land Rover, Johnson & Johnson, Zytronic and Alkegen. Sempre is a measurement specialist solving manufacturing challenges across multiple industries. Through their expert in-house consultants and partnerships with over 25 well-known manufacturers including Jenoptik, Renishaw and Micro-Vu, Sempre offers an extensive range of products and software to customers in aerospace, automotive, medical, energy and precision engineering.
The Group is headquartered in Oxford with offices in the United Kingdom, United States and Germany. Since 2001, Oxford Metrics (LSE: OMG), has been a quoted company listed on AIM, a market operated by the London Stock Exchange. For more information about Oxford Metrics, visit www.oxfordmetrics.com.
About Dreamscape
Dreamscape Immersive is a world-leading VR company pioneering immersive experiences for entertainment, enterprise, and education.
Dreamscape combines the emotional power of Hollywood storytelling, the visceral excitement of major theme parks and cutting-edge motion capture technology to create stories and worlds that push the boundaries of virtual reality.
Dreamscape was founded in 2017 by technology experts, cinematic heavyweights, and live events professionals. The company’s location-based VR venues began rolling out across the United States and the Middle East in December 2018 to unprecedented audience enthusiasm. Most recently, Dreamscape introduced Dreamscape Learn, a new partnership with the nation’s leading innovator in education Arizona State University, to transform learning through exploration. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with its European headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. To learn more about Dreamscape, visit our site at: dreamscapeimmersive.com.
About Artanim
A Swiss leading non-profit center in motion capture technologies, Artanim Foundation was founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 2011. The foundation pursues two strategic lines of research related to motion capture:
Virtual and augmented reality: Artanim develops virtual or augmented reality applications that emphasize on real-time interaction and virtual characters animation using state-of-the-art technologies. Part of this R&D effort has resulted in the commercial exploitation of story-based full-roam VR experiences as offered by Dreamscape, the leading VR company, leveraging Artanim’s breakthrough VR platform to create the ultimate immersive experience for location-based entertainment and education.
Medical research: Artanim combines motion capture with 3D medical imaging to better understand individualized human joint structures and to improve diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.
Besides its research activities, Artanim develops award-winning interactive installations that can exploit the potential of virtual and augmented reality, user performance and interactive control to provide new ways of experiencing digital content. For more information about Artanim, visit: artanim.ch.
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Dmitry Polyanskiy, the Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, on the situation in Moldova.
Referring to news reports that a politician was detained in Moldova, Russian Deputy Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy called the situation “intolerable” and described the region as “not stable.” The Moldovan ambassador said Polyanskiy’s statements were “misleading.”
Speaking to reporters at UN headquarters today (Mar 27), Russian Deputy Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy said his delegation had drawn the Security Council’s attention to the detention of Yevgenia Gutsul, the leader of Moldova’s Gagauzian autonomy and “a famous opposition politician, meaningful politician” according to Polyanskiy.
“This is not the first case when the Moldovan authorities harass political opposition in this country,” said Polyanskiy. While stressing that Moscow had no intention of interfering in Moldova’s domestic affairs, he added that the Council “has a preventive function,” and urged members to act to prevent “a very bad and unstable situation.”
Polyanskiy referenced Moldova’s recent presidential elections, which he said, “were largely contested and proceeded in a very, very controversial atmosphere.” He also cited “provocations against Transnistria” and political developments in neighboring Romania, describing the region as “not stable.”
Responding shortly afterward, Moldovan Ambassador Gheorghe Leucă called the statement by Polyaskiy “misleading.” He also said, “The preventive detention of Yevgenia Gutsul, a member of the Shor criminal group, falls strictly within the competence of the prosecutorial authorities of the Republic of Moldova,” Leucă said.
According to the Moldovan envoy, the charges are not related to Gutsul’s political role. “Her detention is not related to her role as the head of the Gagauzian autonomy, but rather to her involvement in a criminal organization,” he said.
Leucă emphasized Moldova’s commitment to due process and judicial independence. “The Republic of Moldova is a state governed by the rule of law, where the rights of all individuals are fully protected,” he said. “Every accused person has their guaranteed right to a fair defense and the opportunity to prove their innocence in accordance with legal procedures.”
“Any interference of any country in the internal affairs of the Republic of Moldova, as of any other state, are unwarranted and unacceptable,” Leucă concluded.
Comments to the media by Gheorghe Leucă, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Moldova, on the situation in the country.
Moldovan Ambassador Gheorghe Leucă called the statement by Polyaskiy “misleading.” He also said, “The preventive detention of Yevgenia Gutsul, a member of the Shor criminal group, falls strictly within the competence of the prosecutorial authorities of the Republic of Moldova,” Leucă said.
According to the Moldovan envoy, the charges are not related to Gutsul’s political role. “Her detention is not related to her role as the head of the Gagauzian autonomy, but rather to her involvement in a criminal organization,” he said.
Leucă emphasized Moldova’s commitment to due process and judicial independence. “The Republic of Moldova is a state governed by the rule of law, where the rights of all individuals are fully protected,” he said. “Every accused person has their guaranteed right to a fair defense and the opportunity to prove their innocence in accordance with legal procedures.”
“Any interference of any country in the internal affairs of the Republic of Moldova, as of any other state, are unwarranted and unacceptable,” Leucă concluded.
1. In December 2020, the Commission adopted the recast Drinking Water Directive[1] to be transposed by the Member States into national law and complied with its provisions by January 2023. This directive includes per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances ( PFAS) quality standards and minimum monitoring requirements for drinking water at the point of compliance such as the household tap. Member States are committed to ensuring compliance with these PFAS quality standards by January 2026. Maximum levels for specific PFAS in certain foodstuffs have been established in 2023 by a Commission Regulation[2]. Member States will report all findings of their food controls to the European Food Safety Authority.
2. The Drinking Water Directive provides for Member States to ensure that information on the quality of water supplied is made available to consumers, including the results of PFAS monitoring from January 2026. In case of exceedances, Member States will take appropriate measures to protect human health and ensure that consumers are informed.
3. The Commission’s Zero Pollution Action Plan[3] aims significantly to reduce pollutant levels in the environment by 2050, including PFAS pollution. Various research and innovation projects on PFAS have been funded under the Horizon 2020[4] and Horizon Europe[5] programmes. The ongoing Horizon 2020 project ‘ZeroPM’[6] developed next generation remediation techniques to sustainably remove prioritised substances from water resources and drinking water. A Greek partner is involved in the project. Information on these programmes is publicly available.
[1] Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2020 on the quality of water intended for human consumption (recast), OJ L 435, 23.12.2020, p. 1-62.
Question for written answer E-001142/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Jordan Bardella (PfE)
As part of the strategic dialogue on the automotive sector, the Commission announced that it was planning to introduce an obligation to green company fleets, which account for around 60 % of new vehicles bought each year. However, that measure may significantly increase costs for European companies, which are already facing strong international competition, and at the same time, electric vehicles remain 30 % more expensive than their combustion equivalents.
1.What proportion of electric vehicles does the Commission intend to force on companies in their annual purchases?
2.Taking into account the state of the market and global competition, with Chinese and US industry 15 years ahead technologically, for example, what are the forecasts for the share of electric vehicles manufactured within the EU?
The reports to which the Honourable Member refers are inaccurate. No Commission official was instructed to monitor the livestream to which reference is made, as also stated in the answers provided by the Commission to the written questions P-000108/2025 and E-000254/2025.
The Digital Services Act (DSA)[1] itself does not determine what type of content users may or may not post online. One of the aims of the DSA is to ensure that EU citizens and other persons are able to effectively exercise their freedom of expression online.
[1] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act), OJ L 277, 27.10.2022, p. 1-102.
The EU has put its effort first on scaling up humanitarian support in Gaza and stands ready to engage in the early recovery and reconstruction of Gaza. On 18 February 2025, the EU released the Gaza Interim Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (IRDNA)[1], prepared jointly with the United Nations and the World Bank and in collaboration with the Palestinian Authority.
The needs for recovery and reconstruction are estimated at EUR 49 billion. Given the magnitude of needs, it will require the mobilisation and coordination of all donors, including the Arab States.
The IRDNA will be followed by a conflict recovery framework. It will set the priorities for scalable recovery and reconstruction. It will also inform about the relevant implementation channels and funding mechanisms, in close cooperation with a reformed Palestinian Authority.
The conditions for scalable recovery and reconstruction are not yet in place, with protracted uncertainty on the security, governance and political arrangements that are to be determined.
The Commissioner for the Mediterranean will lead the Commission’s work on developing, with international partners, a dedicated reconstruction plan for Gaza, in good cooperation with the High Representative/Vice-President and the Commissioner in charge of preparedness and crisis management.
The Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea) is not included in the list of huntable species under Annex II of the Birds Directive[1].
Member States are primarily responsible to ensure compliance with EU law, including verifying individual cases of potential breach of the relevant rules, and taking the necessary steps for enforcement.
In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission will continue monitoring the situation and may decide to take appropriate action.
The Commission aims to swiftly follow up on systemic issues involving the application of EU law in EU countries. However, one-off instances are better dealt with at national level, as long as there are available remedies, including judicial ones. In these cases, it is up to the national courts to apply and enforce citizens’ rights under EU law.
In line with its strategic approach on enforcement action[2] the Commission focuses on those cases that reveal a systemic breach of EU law in a Member State.
[1] Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds, OJ L 020 26.1.2010, p. 7.
[2] As set out in the communication of 19 January 2017: EU law: Better results through better application — C/2016/8600, OJ C 18, 19.1.2017, p. 10-20 and in the communication of 13 October 2022: COM(2022) 518 final — Enforcing EU law for a Europe that delivers.
The Commission shares the concerns regarding the safety of the Astravets nuclear power plan. Given the current political situation, all bilateral relations with the authorities of Russia and Belarus have been suspended.
The European Nuclear Safety Regulators Group completed a peer review of the post-Fukushima nuclear safety assessment ‘stress tests’ of the Astravets nuclear power plant in 2021 and issued safety improvement recommendations.
The nuclear safety regulator of Belarus drew up a National Action Plan, updated in 2023[1], to implement these recommendations. The Commission continues to monitor Belarus’s progress in implementing them within the framework of relevant multilateral conventions adopted under the auspices the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), but it is not currently in a position to restart contacts with the Belarus nuclear safety regulator.
The Commission will continue to maintain contacts with the IAEA, which has the mandate to promote the implementation of international nuclear safety standards worldwide, including in Belarus.
The Commission intends to use existing international peer review mechanisms, notably the upcoming Eighth Review Meeting of the Joint Convention[2] in March 2025 and the Convention on Nuclear Safety Review Meeting in March 2026 to probe the implementation by Belarus of its obligations under these Conventions, which are relevant for Belarus follow-up of the findings of the stress tests peer review [3].
[2] Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management, adopted under IAEA auspices in 1997. In December 2024, the Commission, on behalf of Euratom, analysed Belarus National Report and inquired the Country on several safety aspects of spent fuel and radioactive waste management.
[3] The position for the upcoming Joint Convention Review Meeting is coordinated with the Member States in the Working Party on Atomic Questions of the Council.
In accordance with Article 3 of Directive 2024/1711[1], Member States shall bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive by 17 January 2025.
However, by way of derogation, the transposition deadline for Article 2, points (2) and (5), which concerns the free choice of supplier and the right to energy sharing, is extended to 17 July 2026.
The Commission is currently assessing the transposition measures notified by Member States.
To support Member States in transposing the new provisions of the Electricity Market Design (EMD) and ensuring effective implementation, the Commission is holding dedicated meetings with national authorities. In December 2024, it provided Member States with a guidance notice and an explanatory document template for the transposition of Directive (EU) 2024/1711.
Additionally, the Commissioner for Energy and Housing is tasked to issue Citizen Energy Package to increase citizens’ participation in the energy transition and strengthen the social dimension of the Energy Union.
If the Commission determines that a Member State has failed to transpose legislation within the legal deadlines, it may initiate infringement proceedings under Article 258 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
The Commission publishes regular updates on its infringement actions.
Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English
The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) and swissuniversities, the Swiss Conference of Rectors of Higher Education Institutions, want to facilitate access to higher education in Switzerland for refugees with academic potential and thereby ease the shortage of skilled labour. The first phase of the pilot programme will focus on five projects from institutions including the Universities of Basel, Lausanne and Lucerne, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland and the Lucerne University of Teacher Education.
On Thursday, 27 March 2025, 09.30-10.30, the DAFR delegation held an Extraordinary meeting in Brussels (room: ANTALL 4Q1) and had a Strategic Dialogue with a High-level delegation from the Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which also included : – The President, H.E. Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, – The Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Hon. Christophe Lutundula Apala Pen´Apala, – The Chair of the Security and Defence Committee, Hon. José Mpanda Kabangu. The meeting was webstreamed and it can be consulted.
In the week of 31 March, Members’ work is centred on Parliament’s plenary sitting, and Committees meet only in exceptional cases. During this week, the Committee on Budgets and the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will meet to discuss on the Commission’s proposal to apply fiscal flexibility for defence spending, and to scrutinise the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Follow the links below to discover the week’s highlights.
The Commission proposed to adopt a decision to mobilize the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers (EGF) in favour of Belgium to support the reintegration in the labour market of 2 397 workers no longer active at Van Hool, due to the company’s bankruptcy. The Commission proposed to mobilise EUR 7 999 015 for Belgium, representing 85 % of the total costs of the proposed actions for reintegration.
In his draft report, the rapporteur Janusz Lewandowski (EPP) agrees with the Commission on the eligibility of the demand put forward by Belgium and therefore proposes to adopt the decision to mobilise the EGF.
This study, commissioned by the European Parliamentary Research Service at the request of the European Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, examines the implementation and enforcement of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005, with particular focus on animal fitness for transport and data recording. It adopts a mixed-method approach, combining desk research, quantitative data analysis, and stakeholder consultations. The analysis indicates that key compliance challenges persist, especially in relation to journey conditions, documentation, and the transport of vulnerable animals such as unweaned calves and end-of-career animals. While some positive practices were observed, enforcement remains inconsistent, and notable shortcomings were identified, particularly concerning inspection procedures, documentation practices, and the assessment of animals’ fitness for transport. The findings highlight the need for clearer regulatory definitions, improved coordination among authorities, and more harmonised inspection and data recording procedures.
Families can spend the Easter holiday immersed in the world of Judith Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came to Tea at The Beaney’s latest exhibition.
Opening on Saturday 5 April, the interactive exhibition by children’s literature centre, Seven Stories, includes family-friendly activities alongside reproductions of the author’s beloved illustrations from the famous picture book.
Visitors will get to learn all about Judith Kerr, play in the famous kitchen, get creative and help make the tea party, as well as join the tiger for tea at the table.
Free sensory bags, designed to help visitors with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) explore the exhibit, will also be available.
First published in 1968, The Tiger who Came to Tea has been enjoyed by thousands of children who have gone on to share it with their own children and even grandchildren too.
Kerr deposited her life’s work with Seven Stories in 2008 and is one of the most significant collections of artwork by a single illustrator in the Seven Stories collection.
The exhibition was created as a celebration of 50 years of the beloved children’s book.
Head of Culture, Leisure and External Development, Michelle Moubarak, said: “The Tiger Who Came to Tea holds a huge sense of nostalgia across multiple generations, and I can’t wait to see children, parents and grandparents all engaging with the exhibition in different ways.
“We’re looking forward to seeing lots of families enjoying the Easter holidays out at the exhibition, including on Easter Monday when we will be opening The Beaney specially for the final day of the school break.”
Drop by The Beaney’s Special Exhibitions Room to see the display until Sunday 8 June 2025 (closed Mondays expect 21 April).
Admission is free, with donations encouraged.
Find out more about The Tiger Who Came to Tea exhibition on The Beaney’s website.
