The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has wrapped up, and we’re staying focused on passing common sense legislation that puts Georgia families, businesses and communities first.
Last week’s snowstorm may have delayed budget hearings for a few days, but it didn’t slow us down. The General Assembly has been hard at work in joint sessions, carefully reviewing budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget is not only our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.
One of the most crucial budget proposals this session is Governor Brian P. Kemp’s plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds directly to taxpayers. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we’re in a position to give back to the hardworking Georgians who keep our state running. This is just part of the $2.2 billion in statewide allocations designed to benefit families, businesses, and communities across Georgia. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen our economy by putting more money back in your pockets.
Another key priority is ensuring communities hit hardest by Hurricane Helene have the necessary resources to rebuild. Gov. Kemp has proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help with debris removal and housing assistance. Another $300 million will go to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure. Many rural counties are still reeling from this storm, and we’re committed to making sure they get the support they need to recover and move forward.
Back at the Capitol, we hit the ground running this week, advancing legislation that reflects our values and priorities. On Thursday, Gov. Kemp hosted a press conference discussing his (and my) number one priority for the session: tort reform. With the support of leadership officials, I am optimistic about the General Assembly’s ability to pass meaningful and effective tort reform. I know my fellow Senators and I can help achieve better transparency and safeguard our small businesses from being held responsible for criminal acts out of their control. In the words of Gov. Kemp, “Tort reform is not anti-insurance or anti-lawyer, its pro-Georgia consumer.”
As committee meetings pick up, we’re working hard on issues that matter most to our communities, from protecting our schools to strengthening local infrastructure. I’m also excited to share my recent co-sponsorship of several Senate Bills, including the “Freedom of Speech and Belief Act,” which, if signed into law, would ensure that our constitutional First Amendment rights are protected in our state.
Finally, I encourage students ages 12 to 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is an excellent way for young people to see firsthand how the General Assembly works. Interested students may apply for the program by emailing me or my administrative assistant at my office. (Frank.Ginn@senate.ga.gov.)
As always, I’m here to listen. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we work together throughout the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.
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Sen. Frank Ginn represents the 47th Senate District which includes Madison County and portions of Barrow, Clarke, and Jackson County. He can be reached at (404) 656-4700 or by email atfrank.ginn@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out toSenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
Three of the first seven new charter schools | kura hourua open their doors today, marking a huge milestone for education in New Zealand, says Charter School Agency Chief Executive, Jane Lee.
Mastery Schools New Zealand – Arapaki (Christchurch), L’École Française Internationale (Auckland) and Te Rito, Te Kura Taiao (Doubtless Bay) will all welcome their first students with a range of celebrations.
Mastery Schools New Zealand – Arapaki, the first new charter school to be announced last November, will greet its first 60 students with a mihi whakatau including whānau, supporters, Charter School Agency, government and Authorisation Board representatives, as well as founders of Mastery Schools Australia.
L’École Française Internationale will celebrate with students and families by sharing a traditional French breakfast which coincides with la chandeleur (pancake day) in France while Te Rito, Te Kura Taiao will also have a mihi whakatau to welcome its first cohort, with plans for a larger opening celebration in a few weeks.
“Today is a huge day for education. I welcome these schools to the charter school network and applaud the sponsors and education leaders for their vision and strategic approach to lifting student outcomes,” says Ms Lee.
“The introduction of more diverse learning options in our communities opens more choice for families and students and offers a new start for children who have been disengaged or who will benefit from a different approach.
“Charter schools will help children attain attendance and achievement levels and the real value will be realised through them growing in confidence, reaching their potential and ultimately contributing to their communities,” says Ms Lee.
The opening of Mastery Schools New Zealand – Arapaki was particularly significant for the school’s sponsors, Dave and Jo Jessep, whose inspiration to open a charter school stemmed from supporting their daughter’s learning needs.
The Mastery Schools programme is evidence based and focuses on learners who are disengaged from mainstream schools. Each class has a core teacher with three teaching assistants.
Four other new charter schools are scheduled to open in the coming week.
TIPENE, the South Auckland Māori boys boarding school, will welcome its first cohort and whānau with a pōwhiri on 6 February, Waitangi Day, which Associate Minister for Education, David Seymour, will speak at following his attendance at Waitangi.
The BUSY School New Zealand (central Auckland) opens on 7 February and both North West College (Auckland) and Christchurch North College start their terms on 10 February.
More new charter schools which could open later this year or early 2026 will be announced in the coming weeks. The Charter School Agency is also preparing to start an expression of interest process for existing state schools which are interested in becoming charter schools and a new round of applications for sponsors to open new charter schools.
The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has wrapped up, and we’re staying focused on passing commonsense legislation that puts Georgia families, businesses and communities first.
Last week’s snow may have delayed budget hearings for a few days, but it didn’t slow us down. The General Assembly has been hard at work in joint sessions, carefully reviewing budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget is not only our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.
One of the most crucial budget proposals this session is Governor Brian P. Kemp’s plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds to taxpayers directly. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we can give back to the hardworking Georgians who keep our state running. This is just part of the $2.2 billion in statewide allocations designed to benefit families, businesses, and communities across Georgia. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen our economy by putting more money back in your pockets.
Another key priority is ensuring communities hit hardest by Hurricane Helene have the necessary resources to rebuild. Gov. Kemp has proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help with debris removal and housing assistance. Another $300 million will go to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure. Many rural counties are still reeling from this storm, and we’re committed to ensuring they get the support they need to recover and move forward.
Back at the Capitol, we went straight to work this week, advancing legislation that reflects our values and priorities. Regardless of political agenda, the safety and wellbeing of Georgians is always a top priority for all State Senators. One of the bills I’m proud to cosponsor is Senate Bill 27, which would protect vulnerable individuals in our state from stalking and doxing, creating criminal penalties for endangering Georgians through these means. I also cosponsored Senate Bill 29, a measure that would make it easier for law enforcement officials to collect the DNA of criminals arrested for felonies.
This week, I had the pleasure of joining our Glynn County commissioners in meetings with the commissioners of both the Georgia Department of Transportation and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to discuss issues that are vitally important to my friends and neighbors. I am confident these discussions will bear fruit in future efforts to better our roads and bridges and to protect our beaches.
Finally, I want to continue encouraging students ages 12 to 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is an excellent way for young people to see firsthand how the General Assembly works. If you know a student who might be interested, they can apply here.
As always, I’m here to listen. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we work together throughout the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.
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Sen. Mike Hodges serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reapportionment and Redistricting. He represents the 3rd Senate District which includes Brantley, Camden, Charlton, Glynn, McIntosh, and a portion of Ware County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 463-1309 or by email atmike.hodges@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out toSenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has concluded, and we’re staying focused on passing commonsense legislation that puts Georgia families, businesses and communities first.
Last week’s snowstorm may have delayed budget hearings for a few days, but it didn’t slow us down. The General Assembly has been hard at work in joint sessions, carefully reviewing budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget is not only our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.
One of the most crucial budget proposals this legislative session is Governor Brian P. Kemp’s plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds directly to taxpayers. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we’re in a position to give back to the hardworking Georgians who keep our state running. This is just part of the $2.2 billion in statewide allocations designed to benefit families, businesses and communities across Georgia. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen our economy by putting more money back in your pockets.
Another key priority is ensuring communities hit hardest by Hurricane Helene have the resources they need to rebuild. Gov. Kemp has proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help with debris removal and housing assistance. Another $300 million will go to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure. Many rural counties are still reeling from this storm, and we’re committed to making sure they get the support they need to recover and move forward.
One of the bills I’m proud to sponsor is Senate Bill 43. This legislation aims to update the qualifications for bona fide conservation use property and bona fide residential transition property and would increase the maximum acreage needed to qualify to meet these standards. I’m also proud to sponsor Senate Bill 13, legislation which provides the authority to finance and perform duties in connection with projects relating to natural gas facilities. This legislation is not only important to Senate District 13, but to the entire state.
Finally, I encourage students ages 12 to 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is an excellent way for young people to see firsthand how the General Assembly works. If you know a student who might be interested, they can apply on the Senate website here.
If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we work together throughout the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.
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Sen. Carden Summers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking and Financial Institutions. He represents the 13th Senate District which includes Ben Hill, Berrien, Crisp, Irwin, Lee, Tift, Turner, and Worth County, as well as a part of Coffee County.He may be reached at (404) 463-5258 or by email atcarden.summers@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out toSenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Australian Government has imposed counter-terrorism financing sanctions on the white supremacist terrorist network Terrorgram, as part of our ongoing work to combat antisemitism and keep Australians safe.
Terrorgram is an online network that promotes white supremacy and racially-motivated violence.
It is now a criminal offence to use or deal with the assets of, or make assets available to, Terrorgram.
Penalties include up to 10 years’ imprisonment and/or heavy fines.
It is the first time any Australian Government has imposed counter-terrorism financing sanctions on an entity based entirely online.
The Australian Government has also re-listed for counter-terrorism financing sanctions four other entities that promote nationalist and racist violent extremist ideologies: National Socialist Order, the Russian Imperial Movement, Sonnenkrieg Division and The Base.
This demonstrates the Albanese Government’s commitment to disrupting the activities of terrorists and violent extremists and preventing them from recruiting and radicalising people online.
There is no place in Australia for antisemitism, hatred or violence.
The Australian Government has also imposed sanctions on Hizballah’s new Secretary-General and a leading spokesperson for the terrorist group, Mr Naim Qassem.
Hizballah is responsible for the deaths of countless civilians in Lebanon, Israel and across the Middle East.
One person and another four entities have also been re-listed for counter-terrorism financing sanctions.
A consolidated list of sanctions is available on the Department of Foreign Affairs website.
Police are urgently appealing for help to find a vulnerable woman who went missing following a trip to the theatre in central London.
Aziza Daley, who is 37 today, was last seen leaving the Cambridge Theatre in Seven Dials, Covent Garden at about 15:20hrs on Saturday, 1 February.
Aziza, who is from Croydon, has autism and is non-verbal. She is known to enjoy open spaces.
When last seen, she was wearing a green top with open shoulders, black trousers and black boots.
Officers are concerned for her welfare. It is possible she has now been out all night, in very cold temperatures, without a coat or other warm clothing.
Urgent enquiries are ongoing to try to find Aziza. Officers have released an image and a short clip taken not far from where she was last seen. It shows what she was wearing at the time.
Anyone who sees Aziza is urged to call 999.
Anyone with other information about her whereabouts is asked to call 101, giving the reference 4363/01FEB.
Source: The Conversation – France – By George Kassar, Full-time Faculty, Research Associate, Performance Analyst, Ascencia Business School
Thoughtful netiquette can help create a respectful, clear and productive virtual appraisal experience.Gerd Altmann/Pixabay
As we settle into the new year, one meeting often weighs heavily on the minds of employees: the performance appraisal review. For some, it’s a time of validation and recognition, while for others, it brings a mix of anticipation and uncertainty.
These meetings are a common practice in human resource management and are an important part of the performance management process. Despite some debates on the effectiveness of these systematic assessments, they are still frequently used to help organizations evaluate employee output, provide feedback and set future goals and rewards.
With the rise of modern technologies, the dynamics of these appraisals have changed dramatically, especially in terms of manners and etiquette.
What are performance appraisal reviews?
Performance appraisals are a set of structured evaluations of employees’ job performance against set criteria and organizational goals. These evaluations are essential for managing human resources effectively. They provide insights into employee productivity, help identify training needs and align individual goals with the broader organizational mission. They also play a critical role in career development by offering feedback that helps employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement. And they are a key factor in management decisions about promotions, compensation, and sometimes, terminations.
Employee reactions to performance appraisals can vary greatly depending on multiple factors. Active participation in the appraisal process can lead to more positive perceptions of its fairness and effectiveness. Further, fair and constructive appraisals can boost employee satisfaction and commitment, whereas poorly conducted ones can lead to dissatisfaction and disengagement.
On the other hand, performance appraisals can also be a significant source of stress for employees. The anticipation of critical feedback and the high stakes associated with these evaluations can induce anxiety and tension. In fact, some studies suggests that performance appraisals contribute to employee burn-out.
This stress-inducing aspect of appraisals can greatly influence the manners, attitudes and behaviors of employees during these meetings.
The influence of modern technologies on manners and etiquette
In the last few years, especially during the Covid pandemic, modern technologies have transformed performance appraisal reviews. Video conferencing and communication tools integrated into performance management software have made remote and flexible appraisals possible. These tools have significantly altered communication styles, shifting the focus to digital interactions that often lack non-verbal cues. Some behavioral scientists even noted that while online communication was essential during the pandemic, it lacks the richness of face-to-face interaction, which can affect the clarity and warmth of communication.
Netiquette, or Internet etiquette, consists of the polite behaviors expected in online communications. The importance of netiquette in performance appraisals is basically to ensure clear and respectful communication. Adhering to netiquette helps maintain a professional tone and reduces the risk of misunderstandings in virtual settings.
So while digital communication has led to new norms and expectations for politeness, clarity and respect remain crucial factors. Without physical presence, explicit expressions of politeness and consideration are more important than ever, helping to replicate the nuances of face-to-face communication in a virtual environment.
Theoretical perspectives on manners and etiquette
The late sociologist Norbert Elias’s theories offer a historical perspective on how manners and societal norms evolve. In his book, The Civilizing Process, Elias traces the development of manners from medieval times to the modern era, arguing that societal norms become more regulated and refined over time. This process involves both sociogenetic aspects, which concern social changes over long periods, and psychogenetic ones, which concern the internalization of social norms.
Elias’s theories can also help us understand how manners and etiquette in modern organizations are evolving. His ideas have been shown to apply to organizational behavior, highlighting the importance of self-regulation and refinement in professional settings. As performance appraisals become more formalized, they reflect broader societal trends in these directions.
Further applying Elias’s civilizing process to the digital age involves understanding how manners and etiquette adapt to technological advancements. Developing new norms for digital behavior helps maintain respectful and effective communication; netiquette is a contemporary extension of the civilizing process. As performance appraisals increasingly move online, adhering to netiquette helps ensure positive and constructive experiences.
Implications for performance appraisals
Modern technologies have blurred the traditional boundaries of place, time and organization, affecting employee behavior and manners. These changes challenge traditional notions of hierarchy and authority, encouraging more egalitarian and flexible interactions. This shift requires employees to adapt to the new culture of organizations. Observing the netiquette guidelines that follow can significantly enhance the online appraisal experience for both employees and managers.
Preparation as self-regulation: Testing the Internet connection, camera and microphone reflects Elias’s concept of internalized norms as self-regulatory practices that enhance interactions. Creating a quiet, well-lit space shows respect for the meeting and fosters a focused environment.
Professional presentation: Dressing appropriately and using a distraction-free background reflect Elias’s view of manners as societal refinement markers. A clean, professional setup conveys respect for the occasion and the participants.
Simulated social cues: Making eye contact by looking at the camera, maintaining good posture, and using natural gestures to recreate in-person cues help make for effective communication.
Clarity of speech: Speaking clearly and avoiding vague terminology aligns with Elias’s view that refined language is essential for civilized interactions. Clarity helps overcome the comparative lack of non-verbal cues in virtual settings.
Time management: Joining the meeting a few minutes early and silencing notifications reflect Elias’s ideals of punctuality and order, showing respect for everyone’s time.
Follow-up: A thank-you message after the appraisal supports Elias’s civilizing process by reinforcing professional gratitude and respect.
If your next performance appraisal review is scheduled online, consider these straightforward yet impactful practices. Thoughtful netiquette – when adopted by both managers and employees – can create a respectful, clear and productive virtual appraisal experience, making a real difference on how feedback is communicated and received.
George Kassar ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Prime Minister hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at Chequers this afternoon.
The Prime Minister hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at Chequers this afternoon.
The leaders began by reflecting on the progress made between the UK and Germany in recent months, including through the signing of the Trinity House Agreement on defence, and Joint Action Plan on irregular migration. They agreed on the importance of maintaining the momentum towards an even stronger bilateral partnership.
Turning to the situation in Ukraine, the Prime Minister updated on his recent visit and reiterated that it was important to ensure the country was in the strongest possible position in the coming months, so that peace could be achieved through strength.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine had underscored the importance of scaling up and coordinating defence production across Europe, the leaders agreed.
Updating on the government’s Strategic Defence Review, which would be published later this year, the Prime Minister said it would encompass the lessons learned in Ukraine, and the need to out-manoeuvre Putin’s ongoing aggression and hostile activity across Europe.
Reflecting on the ceasefire between Israel and Gaza, the leaders welcomed the ongoing release of hostages and underscored the importance of seeing through all phases of the deal through.
A two-state solution that ensured a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestine was key, the Prime Minister added.
The leaders also discussed the Prime Minister’s visit to the EU Council tomorrow, and the reset between the UK and the European Union.
The Prime Minister said he was committed to strengthening the UK’s relationship with the EU to drive greater growth and closer security ties, which he believed would benefit all sides.
The leaders looked forward to speaking again tomorrow.
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street
The Prime Minister hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at Chequers this afternoon.
The Prime Minister hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at Chequers this afternoon.
The leaders began by reflecting on the progress made between the UK and Germany in recent months, including through the signing of the Trinity House Agreement on defence, and Joint Action Plan on irregular migration. They agreed on the importance of maintaining the momentum towards an even stronger bilateral partnership.
Turning to the situation in Ukraine, the Prime Minister updated on his recent visit and reiterated that it was important to ensure the country was in the strongest possible position in the coming months, so that peace could be achieved through strength.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine had underscored the importance of scaling up and coordinating defence production across Europe, the leaders agreed.
Updating on the government’s Strategic Defence Review, which would be published later this year, the Prime Minister said it would encompass the lessons learned in Ukraine, and the need to out-manoeuvre Putin’s ongoing aggression and hostile activity across Europe.
Reflecting on the ceasefire between Israel and Gaza, the leaders welcomed the ongoing release of hostages and underscored the importance of seeing through all phases of the deal through.
A two-state solution that ensured a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestine was key, the Prime Minister added.
The leaders also discussed the Prime Minister’s visit to the EU Council tomorrow, and the reset between the UK and the European Union.
The Prime Minister said he was committed to strengthening the UK’s relationship with the EU to drive greater growth and closer security ties, which he believed would benefit all sides.
The leaders looked forward to speaking again tomorrow.
Government of Yukon invests $2.3 million in Planet Youth pilot project to address youth substance use jlutz
The Government of Yukon is investing $2.3 million for four Yukon First Nations to participate in a five-year Planet Youth pilot project addressing youth substance use. The First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, working with both Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation and Selkirk First Nation, and Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation will each implement Planet Youth’s evidence-based Icelandic Prevention Model to address various issues affecting youth in their communities including substance use, mental health, social integration and resilience building.
As a key prevention action under the Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy, this initiative focuses on community-driven, data-informed strategies to reduce youth substance use and foster healthier environments. The two selected applications demonstrate a clear understanding of the Planet Youth model’s values and propose robust plans for diverse community coalitions to support its implementation.
The Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation’s application highlights the model’s potential to help identify local needs and encourage youth and community engagement through data-driven efforts.
Similarly, the application submitted by First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation and Selkirk First Nation emphasizes how the model aligns with their cultural traditions of collective responsibility and community-driven action. The three First Nations’ coalition approach incorporates the involvement of Elders, Knowledge Keepers and representatives across their communities to design and execute prevention strategies tailored to local challenges and opportunities.
In 2025, the pilot project will start with planning and developing educational modules in collaboration with the Planet Youth team. Comprehensive data collection and action implementation will follow in 2026–27.
This milestone is a significant step in the Yukon’s Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy, aiming to reduce substance use and improve the overall health and wellbeing among Yukon youth.
The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed deep alarm over relentless attacks on populated areas in Ukraine and their devastating impact on children.
“I’m devastated by the ongoing attacks hitting heavily populated areas and killing and injuring many people, including children,” said Munir Mammadzade, UNICEF Representative to Ukraine, in a statement on Saturday.
In Poltava, a missile strike on a residential building reportedly injured three children, while at least four others were reportedly wounded in Kramatorsk, Sumy and Synelnykove in recent days.
The violence has left children not only with physical wounds but also deep psychological scars.
“These brutal attacks do not only cause physical and mental harm but strike at the holistic development of children,” Mr. Mammadzade stressed.
Schools damaged
The attacks are also taking a devastating toll on education.
In Odesa, two schools were reportedly damaged – one of which had received shatter-resistant film from UNICEF, preventing major interior damage. Two other schools in Nikopol and Zaporizhzhia also suffered damage.
UNICEF reiterated its call for the protection of children and the infrastructure they rely on such as schools, health facilities, social services and energy systems.
“Hitting heavily populated areas with explosive weapons must be avoided for the sake of every child, every civilian,” Mr. Mammadzade urged.
He also emphasised the need for a sustained peace, one in which children can recover from war, regain their education and rebuild their futures.
Health system under strain
The violence has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation, amid widespread destruction of homes, hospitals and other critical infrastructure.
Fighting has intensified along the Donetsk and Kharkiv frontlines, leading to mass displacement. In the first two weeks of January alone, over 1,600 people, including children, fled their homes, with mandatory evacuations ordered for families in high-risk areas, according to the Health Cluster.
Authorities reported the evacuation of 132 people, including 12 children, from Donetsk oblast on 11 January, while on 23 January, 267 children were evacuated from high-risk areas in Kharkiv oblast.
Responding to the situation, Health Cluster partners, in collaboration with local authorities, continue to deploy mobile medical teams to provide essential healthcare services and mental health and psychosocial support.
In January alone, teams delivered essential health services to 578 people in two designated transit centers in Kharkiv and Dnipro oblasts.
Led by UN World Health Organization (WHO), the Health Cluster coordinates the efforts of over 900 partners globally to address health needs in humanitarian emergencies, providing expertise, capacity-building and technical guidance to ensure effective and life-saving responses in crisis-affected regions.
Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council
Government funding to establish a dedicated national hub that will centralise policing’s response to violence against women and girls and wider crimes associated with vulnerability has been confirmed today (Sunday, 2 February).
The creation of a dedicated policing hub will support forces with specialist knowledge and training for investigators and officers, and lead on a national approach to preventing these crimes from happening, with other agencies.
Police chiefs declared violence against women and girls a national emergency last year, and called for a whole-system approach that brings together criminal justice partners, government bodies and industry, to tackle the threat through prevention.
Policing mobilised its response to tackle violence against women and girls at a national level by establishing a dedicated taskforce sat within the National Police Chiefs’ Council in 2021. Since then, the taskforce has worked with the College of Policing, the Vulnerability Knowledge and Practice Programme, the Child Sexual Exploitation taskforce, government and support organisations to drive consistency and best practice across all forces in England and Wales.
Building on the successes of programs like Operation Soteria, the new centre will work with academics to ensure an evidence-based approach, transforming the way policing looks at and responds to these crimes.
T/CC Maggie Blyth, National Police Chief’s Council lead for Violence Against Women and Girls said: “We welcome the official announcement and the financial support of government to implement a national policing centre to further protect victims and enhance our specialist capability to target perpetrators.
“We already have the foundations in place, we have a strong partnership across the College of Policing (CoP), National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and specialised programmes to drive better consistency in policing’s response to violence against women and girls.
“Our officers work tirelessly every day to bring offenders to justice and keep people safe, but we need to do more and that starts with equipping our officers with the right training and support to be able to investigate effectively, in the same way as we would provide specialist training to firearms or public order officers.
“We also need to listen and support victims through the criminal justice process and alongside partners, we will drive improvements for swifter justice and a quicker more robust response when people seek our help.
“As we set out last year, the threat and scale of violence against women and girls (VAWG), has reached epidemic levels and it is estimated that at least 1 in every 12 women will be a victim of VAWG every year (2 million victims) and 1 in 20 adults in England and Wales will be a perpetrator of VAWG every year (2.3 million perpetrators). The figures are probably even higher, so we must act now to stop male-perpetrated violence, and we are committed to transforming the policing of public protection, so we have a national standard to decrease harm and cost to society.
“The national centre forms part of our wider work with government on our shared commitment to reform policing and ensure forces have the people and resources they need to keep the public safe.”
Assistant Chief Constable Tom Harding, the College of Policing’s Director of Operational Standards, said:
“Every year, at least one in 12 women will be the victim of violence. This is a startling and unacceptable statistic and one which we, collectively, must commit ourselves to changing.
“Policing is dedicated to protecting women and girls by targeting those who seek to harm them; and ensuring victims have the confidence to come forward, that they are listened to, treated compassionately and receive the best possible service.
“That’s why we’ll place victims at the heart of the new centre and work across law enforcement, government and key stakeholders in both the public and voluntary sectors to boost the training we give to officers working in this area.
“The College of Policing will support forces to achieve the highest possible standards and, building on the success of the existing programmes, we will provide policing with the data, research and insight to improve the response to violence against women and girls.
“I’m grateful to the government for the support and funding provided.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
G7 Foreign Ministers have issued the following statement strongly condemning the Rwanda-backed M23 offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the the capture of Minova, Saké and Goma.
We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, strongly condemn the Rwanda-backed M23 offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and in particular, the capture of Minova, Saké and Goma. We urge M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) to cease their offensive in all directions. We call for the urgent protection of civilians.
We also call for an end to all direct and indirect support to the M23 and all non-state armed groups in the DRC. This offensive constitutes a flagrant disregard for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC. We also condemn M23’s intention to continue expansion into South Kivu.
This latest M23 offensive has led to a dramatic increase in displaced civilians in Goma and across eastern DRC, on top of the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people since the start of the M23 offensive in January. We deplore the devastating consequences of the renewed M23 and RDF offensive, worsening already difficult humanitarian conditions.
G7 Foreign Ministers call for the rapid, safe and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians and reiterate that humanitarian personnel must be provided assurances of safety.
We urge all parties to return to the negotiating table and honour their commitments under the Luanda Process. We urge the M23 to withdraw from all controlled areas. We also urge all parties to fully commit to a peaceful and negotiated resolution of the conflict.
We reiterate our full support to the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) to protect civilians and stabilize the region and call on all parties to respect its mandate.
Attacks against peacekeeping personnel are entirely unacceptable. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeepers of MONUSCO and the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (SAMIDRC).
We strongly condemn all attacks against diplomatic missions in Kinshasa. We urge the Congolese authorities to take all appropriate steps to protect diplomats and the premises of diplomatic missions, as is their responsibility in accordance with international law.
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
February 2nd is celebrated in Russia as the Day of the defeat of the Nazi troops by the Soviet troops in the Battle of Stalingrad (1943). This was the largest land battle of the Second World War, which had a decisive strategic significance and became a turning point in the Great Patriotic War.
Stalingrad, in its very name, carried great ideological significance for the USSR, but there were also economic reasons to hold the city at any cost – it opened access to oil sources in the Caucasus and the rich arable lands of the Don, Kuban and Lower Volga region.
The Battle of Stalingrad was divided into two stages: defensive (from July 17 to November 19, 1943) and offensive (from November 19, 1942 to February 2, 1943). The Red Army was forced to enter the battle with an acute shortage of equipment, on unprepared lines and with recently formed units that were not battle-tested. At the initial stage of the battle, the Germans fought actively and skillfully, surrounded the Russians with entire divisions, took one of the two Soviet armies in pincers, and eventually quickly pushed the defenders back beyond the Don. On July 28, Stalin issued the famous order No. 227 (“Not one step back!”). The stubborn resistance of the Russians, even in encirclement, and the extended front slowed the Wehrmacht’s advance so much that our troops managed to launch a number of counterattacks. Nevertheless, by August 23, the battle had already begun within the city limits.
The fighting in the city is the most famous part of the Battle of Stalingrad. It was particularly brutal and was fought literally for every house, some of which changed hands so often that they even received their own names on military maps. Both sides suffered huge losses and were short of food. This battle eventually became one of the bloodiest in the history of mankind in terms of the number of irreparable losses: in the Red Army they amounted to just under 480 thousand people, in the Wehrmacht and allied forces – about half a million. The number of civilians killed is still difficult to establish even approximately.
Realizing that the German troops were bogged down in heavy fighting, the Red Army command began to hatch a plan for a large-scale counterattack in mid-September, which eventually evolved into Operation Uranus. It began on November 19. As a result, General Friedrich Pauls’ 6th Army was surrounded. As is well known, even the promotion of its commander to the rank of Field Marshal did not save it. Another Field Marshal, Erich Manstein, tried to save the situation by developing Operation Winter Storm, and he almost managed to break through the encirclement, but this was thwarted by fresh reinforcements of Soviet troops and his own completely demoralized allies – the Italians, Hungarians and Romanians. “Dumitrescu was powerless to fight the demoralization of his troops alone. “There was nothing left to do but remove them and send them to the rear, to their homeland,” Manstein wrote in his post-war memoirs, “Lost Victories,” about the 3rd Romanian Army and its commander.
The German group at Stalingrad was completely liquidated as a result of Operation Ring. But it cannot be said that it was easy. The operation was interrupted and adjusted in view of the desperate resistance of the enemy. Nevertheless, the outcome is known. The Germans lost about a quarter of all personnel fighting on the Eastern Front. Germany, for the first time since the beginning of World War II, declared national mourning. Its European allies began to look for ways to leave the war, and Turkey and Japan abandoned their plans to invade the USSR.
In memory of this battle, one of the largest and most famous memorials in honor of the participants of the Great Patriotic War, “To the Heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad,” was erected on Mamayev Kurgan, the height where the most fierce fighting took place, with the main monument “The Motherland Calls!” The ashes of more than 35,000 defenders of the city rest there in individual and mass graves. The monument-ensemble is an object of cultural heritage of the peoples of Russia and a candidate for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The State University of Management congratulates on this day of military glory and recalls our #scientific regiment near Stalingrad – university employees who took part in this grand battle:
-Hero of the Soviet Union, Alexander Davydov, Guard Lieutenant Colonel, Deputy Head of the Nile MIE-MIU department from 1962 to 1985;
-Gennady Belykh, Colonel, Head of the educational and methodological department of the MIU;
– George Bryansky, assistant to the division commander for political units, dean of the faculty of organizers of industrial production and construction of MIEI;
-Peter Burov, Major Engineer, Vice-Rector for the Academic Affairs of MIEI from 1952 to 1962;
– Vasily Svetlov, assistant to the platoon commander, associate professor of the Department of Political Economy of MEII, chairman of the University Council of Veterans from 1993 to 1997.
We also remind you that in the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland, on the initiative of the State University of Management, together with the Association “I am proud” and the “People’s Front” of the DPR, the All-Russian competition “Family history. Immortal memory” is being held.
Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02.02.2025
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh arrives in India today [2 February] on a three-day visit, with a focus on championing young people and promoting the benefits of non-formal education across the world.
His Royal Highness will travel to Mumbai and Delhi to promote The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, delivered as The International Award for Young People (IAYP) in India: a non-formal education and learning framework supporting young people to find their purpose, place and passion in the world. Since its inception in India in 1962, the Award has helped more than 150,000 students from 325 schools and educational institutions across the country.
In addition to meeting with members of the government, His Royal Highness is scheduled to undertake varied engagements spanning the breadth of the living bridge that connects the UK and India. This includes discussions with Indian education and business leaders and philanthropists, and joining events that celebrate our shared love for sport and the arts.
Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said:
I am delighted to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to India. The visit is an important reminder of the vibrant and enduring links between our countries, including through a 1.7 million-strong Indian diaspora in the UK.
The UK-India partnership is helping drive solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. By investing in our youth today and ensuring they have all the opportunities to succeed, we can continue to build on the shared vision of a better tomorrow.
Kapil Bhalla, National Director, The International Award for Young People, India said:
We are deeply honoured to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to India as part of his continued commitment to inspiring young people worldwide. His visit reaffirms the transformative impact of The International Award for Young People in empowering the youth of India to realise their full potential. His Royal Highness’ presence is a testament to the enduring legacy of this programme and its ability to connect communities across the globe.
At the conclusion of the visit to India, The Duke will travel on to join The Duchess of Edinburgh in visiting Nepal.
Further information
Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh, is His Majesty The King’s brother and the youngest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, The late Duke of Edinburgh.
His Royal Highness last visited India in 2018. This is his first official visit to India after being conferred the Dukedom of Edinburgh in 2023 by His Majesty King Charles III.
Founded by Prince Philip in 1956, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award helps young people build their confidence and develop key life skills in order to reach their full potential. Today nearly half a million young people are actively doing their DofE in the UK, and more than a million are taking on the challenge of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in more than 130 countries.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, delivered as The International Award for Young People (IAYP) in India, is the world’s leading youth achievement award, available to all young people aged 14-24. To know more about IAYP in India, visit www.iayp.co.in
Media
David Russell, Communications Counsellor and Spokesperson,
British High Commission, Chanakyapuri,
New Delhi 110021. Tel: 24192100
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The workshop will provide a platform for sharing experience in modernizing legal and institutional frameworks of official statistics and discussing emerging issues posing legal challenges to national statistical systems. The target audience for the meeting will be experts from national statistical offices and international organizations interested in strengthening the legal framework of official statistics and legal aspects of data access, governance, and stewardship.
The workshop will be organized by the Steering Group on Statistical Legislation, including Albania, Armenia, Greece, Ireland, Latvia, Norway, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, EFTA, Eurostat, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) and UNECE, with support of EFTA and hosted by the Institute of Statistics of Albania (INSTAT).
Papers and presentations are available under each session heading below.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The 72nd plenary session of the Conference of European Statisticians (CES) will take place on 20-21 June 2024 in Palais des Nations, Geneva. Simultaneous interpretation in English, French and Russian will be provided.
The Conference provides a platform for addressing emerging issues and developing guidelines and recommendations to improve national statistics and their international comparability. It is one of the oldest statistical bodies globally, with its roots in the League of Nations and the first Conference on Statistics in 1928. Over the years, the Conference has played a significant role in promoting statistical development in its member countries.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The global effort to achieve the 2030 Agenda is in constant need of better data and statistics. The 2030 Agenda encourages complementing the global indicator framework with additional indicators that are particularly relevant in the regional or national context. There are multiple ways of measuring progress towards SDGs, but which indicators to choose and how to measure might prove challenging.
KS – the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities initiated the project “A taxonomy for indicators related to the Sustainable Development Goals”. The taxonomy is all about helping users including policymakers, local and national administrations in choosing indicators that could support them in measuring progress towards the SDGs depending on their own context and priorities. The taxonomy was developed in 2021 by Statistics Norway, in a research and development project funded by KS.
A taxonomy is a system for classification, a set of rules for arranging and creating order, but not just for the sake of sorting. A taxonomy should also provide a context and a purpose for arranging something. As such, the first purpose of this taxonomy is to sort, evaluate and compare different SDG indicators and indicator sets, but more importantly to identify their central properties and characteristics necessary for a user to assess if the indicators are useful in the user’s context. In the taxonomy these central characteristics are organized under three dimensions:
Goal; which tells us what an indicator is about, i.e., which SDG goals and targets, and which TBL (Triple Bottom Line) it may be related to.
Perspective; which clarifies why or in which context the indicator is used (the user’s perspective).
Quality; which measures how useful the indicator is, in other words, if it is fit-for-purpose.
The UNECE Statistical Division and Statistics Norway, in partnership with the CES Steering Group on Statistics for SDGs, are organizing this virtual side-event to the 55th UN Statistical Commission on 6 February where the taxonomy is presented alongside examples of use at the sub-regional level in Norway presented by KS.
The event gave an overview of the taxonomy and its key features. Examples of how different indicators sets have been classified using the taxonomy will be shown and there will be opportunities for the participants to ask questions and discuss technical and conceptual questions about the taxonomy and its use.
The event had 100 virtual participants.
Moderator:
Jonathan Gessendorfer – Associate Statistician, UNECE Statistical Division
Speakers:
Anne Romsaas – Chief SDG Adviser, The Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS)
Li Chun Zhang – Senior Researcher, Statistics Norway and Professor of Social Statistics at University of Southampton
Luis González Morales – Chief, Data Innovation Section, UNSD
Geir Graff – Innovation adviser, Asker Municipality, Norway
Jørn Kristian Undelstvedt – Special adviser, Statistics Norway
Cara Williams – Assistant director, Statistics Canada and co-chair of the IAEG-SDGs.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
National Coaching Workshop in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Photograph: UNECE/FAO Forestry and Timber Section.
UNECE/FAO, UNDA National Coaching Workshop
Национальный семинар ЕЭК ООН/ФАО, СРООН
Rationale
The objectives of the coaching workshop on “Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management for Uzbekistan” are:
to identify the status of national and international forest reporting in Uzbekistan;
to analyse the needs, benefits and potential of criteria and indicators (C&I) development for Uzbekistan;
to discuss and select national C&I for a preliminary set;
to assess the process plan and the best approach for implementation.
This will be achieved through
A. REVIEW. To review progress, challenges and lessons with regards to national and international forest reporting in Uzbekistan with a specific focus on lessons from previous C&I related processes and outcomes.
B. WHY and WHAT. To ensure clarity on what the principles purpose, processes and definitions, related to C&I for SFM are.
C. HOW. Drawing upon international and national best practice to strengthen skills on how to practically develop C&I.
D. DRAFT and PLAN. To draft an initial set of C&I for SFM and develop a process plan of how to test and select them.
Цели семинара
Определение статуса национальной и международной отчетности лесов Узбекистана;
Обсуждение и отбор национальных критериев и индикаторов (КиИ) для предварительного свода;
Анализ потребностей, преимуществ и потенциала развития КиИ для Узбекистана;
Оценка плана процесса и наилучший подход к реализации.
Цели могут быть достигнуты следующим образом:
А. ОБЗОР. Обзор прогресса, вызовы и уроки, связанные с национальной и международной отчетностью по лесам в Узбекистане, с особым упором на уроки, извлеченные из прошлых процессов и результатов, связанных с КиИ.
Б. ПОЧЕМУ и ЧТО. Для обеспечения ясности относительно того, каковы принципы, цель, процессы и определения, связанные с КиИ для УУЛ.
В. КАК. Усиление навыков практической разработки КиИ опираясь на лучшую международную и национальную практику.
Г. НАБРОСОК и ПЛАН. Подготовка исходного набора КиИ для УУЛ и разработка плана процесса их тестирования и выбора.
Meeting hours
02 August 2017, Wednesday: 8.30 – 17.30 / 02 Август 2017 г., Среда: 8.30 – 17.30
03 August 2017, Thursday: 9.00 – 17.30/ 03 Август 2017 г., Четверг: 9.00 – 17.30
04 August 2017, Friday: 9.00 – 17.30 / 04 Август 2017 г., Пятница: 9.00 – 17.30
Meeting venue
Tashkent, Hotel Aster, Yakkasaray district, Minglar str. 35
Ташкент, Отель Астер, район Яккасарай, ул. Минглар 35
Contact
Should you have any question, please contact the Secretariat.
За более подробной информацией обращайтесь в Секретариат.
National examples of SFM C&I processes and outcomes, lessons and recommendations Russia RUS Национальные примеры процессов и итогов, уроков и рекомендаций КиИ для УЛП Россия
National examples of SFM C&I processes and outcomes, lessons and recommendations Estonia ENG-RUS Национальные примеры процессов и итогов, уроков и рекомендаций КиИ для УЛП Эстония
The table below provides an overview of useful material and information about Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in English and Russian. This material can be used as a source of information and inspiration to develop national Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management. The table is not exhaustive. If you are aware of relevant material that is not yet listed kindly inform the project manager.
В таблице ниже представлены полезные материалы и информация о критериях и индикторах для устойчивого леспользования на английском и русском языках. Эти материалы могут быть использованы в качестве информации и вдохновения при разработке национальных критериев и индикаторов для устойчивого лесопользования. Таблица не является полной. Если Вы знаете какие-либо подходящие материалы, которые не представлены в данной таблице, пожалуйста, проинформируйте координатора проекта.
Topic/ Тема
Language/ Язык
Document/ Документ
General information Общая информация
ECE/FAO Guidelines for the Development of a Criteria and Indicator Set for Sustainable Forest Management Методические Рекомендации по Разработке критериев и показателей ведения лесного хозяйства
Guidelines for Developing, Testing and Selecting Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management Руководство по разработке, тестированию и выбору критериев и индикаторов для устойчивого лесопользования
Montreal process: criteria and indicators for conservation and SFM of the temperate and boreal zones 2008 Монреальский процесс: критерии и индикаторы сохранения и УЛП умеренной и бореальной зон 2008
Global Forest Resource Assessment, Synthesis Document Глобальная оценка лесных ресурсов, обобщающий документ More information here Дополнительная информация здесь
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
In 2024 and 2025, the Integrated Programme of Work (IPoW) 2022-2025 of the UNECE Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry (COFFI) and the FAO European Forestry Commission (EFC) will be reviewed as per decision by the eighty-first session of the Economic Commission for Europe Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry (COFFI) and the forty-first session of the Food and Agriculture Organization European Forestry Commission (EFC. This will lead to the draft 2026-2029 Integrated Programme of Work to be adopted by COFF and EFC in November 2025.
The review process will be organized in several steps:
15 April informal online feedback session: for all delegates (country representatives and other stakeholders) an opportunity to share feedback on the successes and shortcomings of current 2022-2025 Integrated Programme of Work including structure, scope, goals, themes, work areas, Teams of Specialists (number, focus, management); implementation principles; support, organizational responsibilities, expert support, etc..
Feedback received will guide the secretariat in the preparation of a new zero draft of the IPoW 2026-29 which will be reviewed at the 22 May session in Geneva.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
Rationale
The objectives of the coaching workshop on “Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management for Georgia” were:
to identify the status of national and international forest reporting in Georgia;
to analyse the needs, benefits and potential of criteria and indicators (C&I) development for Georgia;
to discuss and select national C&I for a preliminary set;
to assess the process plan and the best approach for implementation.
This was achieved through
A. REVIEW. To review progress, challenges and lessons with regards to national and international forest reporting in Georgia with a specific focus on lessons from previous C&I related processes and outcomes.
B. WHY and WHAT. To ensure clarity on what the principles purpose, processes and definitions, related to C&I for SFM are.
C. HOW. Drawing upon international and national best practice to strengthen skills on how to practically develop C&I.
D. DRAFT and PLAN. To draft an initial set of C&I for SFM and develop a process plan of how to test and select them.
Meeting hours
29 November 2017, Wednesday: 8.30 – 17.30
30 November 2017, Thursday: 9.00 – 17.30
01 December 2017, Friday: 9.00 – 17.30
Meeting venue
Justice House Training Centre, A.Politkovskaya Str. 3, Tbilisi, Georgia
Contact
Should you have any questions, please contact Secretariat.
ECE/FAO Guidelines for the Development of a Criteria and Indicator Set for Sustainable Forest Management Методические Рекомендации по Разработке критериев и показателей ведения лесного хозяйства
The table below provides an overview of useful material and information about Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in English and Russian. This material can be used as a source of information and inspiration to develop national Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management. The table is not exhaustive. If you are aware of relevant material that is not yet listed kindly inform the project manager.
В таблице ниже представлены полезные материалы и информация о критериях и индикторах для устойчивого леспользования на английском и русском языках. Эти материалы могут быть использованы в качестве информации и вдохновения при разработке национальных критериев и индикаторов для устойчивого лесопользования. Таблица не является полной. Если Вы знаете какие-либо подходящие материалы, которые не представлены в данной таблице, пожалуйста, проинформируйте координатора проекта.
Topic/ Тема
Language/ Язык
Document/ Документ
General information Общая информация
ECE/FAO Guidelines for the Development of a Criteria and Indicator Set for Sustainable Forest Management Методические Рекомендации по Разработке критериев и показателей ведения лесного хозяйства
CIFOR Guidelines for Developing, Testing and Selecting Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management Руководство по разработке, тестированию и выбору критериев и индикаторов для устойчивого лесопользования
Montreal process: criteria and indicators for conservation and SFM of the temperate and boreal zones 2008 Монреальский процесс: критерии и индикаторы сохранения и УЛП умеренной и бореальной зон 2008
Global Forest Resource Assessment, Synthesis Document Глобальная оценка лесных ресурсов, обобщающий документ More information here Дополнительная информация здесь
A new ‘Blueprint for Growth’ to supercharge Liverpool’s knowledge sector over the next 15 years is set to create more than a million sq ft of new laboratory and workspace in the city.
Knowledge Quarter Liverpool’s urban innovation district and placemaking organisation has pledged to help create a range of inclusive innovation opportunities and inspire future generations by focussing on skills development, community engagement, collaboration and inward investment.
KQ Liverpool’s new 2040 vision has been created following consultation with more than fifty local stakeholders and is underpinned by three core principles; to Convene and Collaborate, Amplify and Attract, Invent and Innovate.
As Liverpool and the wider city region continue to suffer from serious inequalities around issues such as health, education and deprivation, tackling those will be crucial to KQ Liverpool’s future plans, alongside support for the essential community work carried out by its partners.
This will involve expansion of its existing KQ Futures programme, enabled through the Liverpool City Region Health and Life Sciences Innovation Zone, to engage and inspire local young people about the various career opportunities that exist in their home city in specialist sectors. In 2024, KQ Liverpool hosted hundreds of students at its innovation sites and published an illustrated children’s book, Animates: Learning in Liverpool, which was delivered to every primary school in the city region.
It will also seek to boost business growth, job creation and investment into the area while promoting the city region’s high-growth priorities around health and life sciences, materials innovation, AI and robotics. This includes supporting scale-up as well as start-up businesses and simplifying the business support and funding landscape to encourage more innovation-led organisations to start, relocate and stay.
The physical development of the innovation district itself is another key element of the new vision.
KQ Liverpool will work with developers and investors including Sciontec to create more than a million sq ft of new laboratory and workspace.
It will play an important role in unlocking the potential of development sites such as Paddington South, Mount Pleasant and Copperas Hill and shaping transport and connectivity improvements across the district, thus making it more accessible and recognisable to residents, businesses and visitors.
There will also be fresh focus on the collective influence of KQ Liverpool and its partners around important national and international issues and challenges, rather than the physical boundary of the district itself, helping to attract inward investment and showcase the strengths of its innovation ecosystem.
Speaking on behalf of the wide range of partners engaged in KQ Liverpool, its chair Andrew Lewis, who is also Liverpool City Council’s Chief Executive, said: “Our 2040 vision is about improving the lives of those who live and work here, for years to come. We want to create an innovation generation, supporting new skills in our local communities, highlighting the many incredible innovations that happen here in KQ Liverpool, and encouraging future generations of science and technology pioneers to call Liverpool their home.
“We can be proud of the innovation ecosystem and partnerships we have created here in Liverpool, bringing high quality jobs and investment into the city centre, through spin-outs, SMEs, multinationals and global investors who see the enormous potential of KQ Liverpool as a place to do business and create long-term opportunities.”
Colin Sinclair, chief executive of KQ Liverpool, said: “The foundation of our success to date has been the strength of our partnership, exceeding expectations by challenging the norm and refusing to accept anything average or ordinary.
“Going forward, our 2040 vision amplifies that ambition. As a partnership, we will do everything in our power to make this place and peoples’ lives better.”
For further information about KQ Liverpool or the new KQ Liverpool 2040 : A Blueprint for Growth, please click here.
Liverpool will play host to the prestigious 2025 British Chess Championships alongside a wider chess festival this summer as organisers hope to put on the strongest event in its 121-year history.
Britain’s top chess players will converge on Liverpool from July 31 to August 10 as the English Chess Federation’s flagship annual event comes to the city for only the second time, it was announced on Friday.
It will culminate in new British champions being named at all age groups.
A series of tournaments featuring the cream of Britain’s chess talent, including the Open and Women’s championships, will be held in Liverpool’s landmark St George’s Hall. A weekend congress for amateurs will also be held at the nearby Liverpool Holiday Inn in Lime Street.
Alongside the competitive events, Liverpool will host a festival and programme of social and cultural activities organised in association with the city’s historic Liverpool Chess Club.
This will be the 111th British Chess Championships—a series that has run almost unbroken since 1904.
The last two British Chess Championships, held in Leicester and Hull, have seen record numbers competing. Continuing growth is expected this year.
UK chess has also been experiencing a boom in participation among amateurs and success at the top level. In 2024, two new English grandmasters were named: teenage sensation Shreyas Royal and England’s newest grandmaster Ameet Ghasi.
The event is being put on by the English Chess Federation in partnership with Liverpool City Council and St George’s Hall, with support from the Chess Trust and the John Robinson Chess Trust.
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “Liverpool has a long and rich connection with chess and it’s a hugely popular activity in schools and communities so we are delighted to be hosting the British Chess Championships later this summer.
“St George’s Hall, with its incredible architecture and acoustics, will offer the perfect backdrop, lending itself perfectly to quiet, focused gameplay, which is sure to result in a thrilling competition for contestants and spectators alike.
“This is yet another coup for Liverpool, as we continue to position ourselves as a versatile events city, and we look forward to working closely with the English Chess Federation and Chess In Schools and Communities to give a warm Liverpool welcome to the best of the best from the chess world.”
It is a welcome return to Liverpool, a city steeped in chess culture. Liverpool boasts a thriving local league and, in Liverpool Chess Club, one of the oldest chess clubs in the world founded in 1837. Atticus Chess Club, based in the Cross Keys Pub in Earle Street, is also a former winner of the national club championships.
Chess was also a key theme as the city hosted the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest for Ukraine with school children encouraged to learn the game to honour the link with Liverpool’s sister city, Odesa. Schools were tasked with producing Eurovision-themed chess pieces and a unique chess event featuring players from Liverpool and Ukraine was held at St Luke’s Bombed Out Church.
Liverpool last hosted the British in 2008, the year the city was named the European Capital of Culture. That year, Grandmaster Stuart Conquest emerged victorious as the 2008 Open champion while International Master Jovanka Houska won the first of her nine Women’s titles.
Nigel Towers, the English Chess Federation’s Director for Home Chess, said: “2008 was recognised as a strong event with many titled players. However, we expect the return visit in 2025 to provide an even more competitive championship and one of the strongest British tournaments ever given the increasing numbers of active British grandmasters and international masters and the current generation of top-level juniors.”
Amos Burn, one of the world’ strongest chess players in the 19th century, was a member of the Liverpool Chess Club from 1867 until his death in 1925, serving as its president for many years.
Among the top players Liverpool has produced are four-time British Women’s champion Sheila Jackson, the 15th Correspondence World Championship winner John Carleton and International Masters Gary Quillan and Malcolm Pein, a former British junior champion. Nearby Southport has also produced two grandmasters in Nigel Davies and Stuart Haslinger.
Washington, DC: Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), issued the following statement today after news of the death of Mr. Horst Köhler, former IMF Managing Director:
“It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of Horst Köhler, who was the eighth Managing Director of the Fund and ably led our institution between 2000 and 2004. Mr. Köhler will be remembered for his many contributions, and in particular for navigating the Fund’s work through the difficult period after September 11, 2001. He mobilized the Fund and the international community to help the low-income and heavily indebted members, championing greater transparency and strong governance.
“During his distinguished career, he played a key role in Germany’s unification in 1990 as Deputy Finance Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany and was instrumental in drafting the legal framework for the introduction of the euro. He served as president of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, before joining the IMF as Managing Director. In 2004 he left the IMF to become president of the Federal Republic of Germany, winning the hearts of many for his principled approach. Throughout a large part of his life, he was particularly devoted to drawing the world’s attention to the needs of the African continent – something many of us at the Fund greatly admired.
“On behalf of the IMF, I wish to offer our deepest condolences to Mr. Köhler’s family – his wife Eva, his two children Ulrike and Jochen, and his grandchildren. Mr. Köhler led a life of distinguished public service, and leaves behind a profound legacy of dedication to fairness and justice and an unfailing concern for others.”
Washington, DC: Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), issued the following statement today after news of the death of Mr. Horst Köhler, former IMF Managing Director:
“It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of Horst Köhler, who was the eighth Managing Director of the Fund and ably led our institution between 2000 and 2004. Mr. Köhler will be remembered for his many contributions, and in particular for navigating the Fund’s work through the difficult period after September 11, 2001. He mobilized the Fund and the international community to help the low-income and heavily indebted members, championing greater transparency and strong governance.
“During his distinguished career, he played a key role in Germany’s unification in 1990 as Deputy Finance Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany and was instrumental in drafting the legal framework for the introduction of the euro. He served as president of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, before joining the IMF as Managing Director. In 2004 he left the IMF to become president of the Federal Republic of Germany, winning the hearts of many for his principled approach. Throughout a large part of his life, he was particularly devoted to drawing the world’s attention to the needs of the African continent – something many of us at the Fund greatly admired.
“On behalf of the IMF, I wish to offer our deepest condolences to Mr. Köhler’s family – his wife Eva, his two children Ulrike and Jochen, and his grandchildren. Mr. Köhler led a life of distinguished public service, and leaves behind a profound legacy of dedication to fairness and justice and an unfailing concern for others.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Chinese Yingge dance staged to mark Spring Festival in Frankfurt
Updated: February 1, 2025 21:50Xinhua
People take videos of Yingge dance during the Spring Festival temple fair in Frankfurt, Germany, on Jan. 31, 2025. The Yingge team from Shantou, south China’s Guangdong province, offered a rich cultural feast in Frankfurt to friends from all over the world through their Chaoyang Yingge dance, a unique art form combining drama, dance, and martial arts. [Photo/Xinhua]A woman takes a selfie with members of a Yingge team during the Spring Festival temple fair in Frankfurt, Germany, on Jan. 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]A woman poses for a photo with a member of a Yingge team during the Spring Festival temple fair in Frankfurt, Germany, on Jan. 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]A woman poses for a photo with members of a Yingge team during the Spring Festival temple fair in Frankfurt, Germany, on Jan. 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Members of a Yingge team perform traditional Chaoyang Yingge dance during the Spring Festival temple fair in Frankfurt, Germany, on Jan. 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Members of a Yingge team pose for a group photo during the Spring Festival temple fair in Frankfurt, Germany, on Jan. 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
FRANKFURT/GUANGZHOU, Feb. 1 — Hundreds of local residents experienced the festive joy of the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival in Frankfurt, Germany on Friday as a group of flamboyantly dressed performers captivated the public with their lively and unique dance in celebration.
The performance was distinctive — an artful fusion of drama, dance, and martial arts — earning it the special name Yingge dance, or “dance to the hero’s song.”
It is a form of folk dance popular in south China’s Guangdong Province and it was listed as the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage in 2006.
The 25-member Ximen Yingge Team from Shantou, Guangdong Province, energized onlookers with their powerful and rhythmic movements against the crisp winter air in Frankfurt as the first Spring Festival temple fair kicked off here.
Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province, the team is currently on an eight-day tour of Germany and France, starting on Tuesday, as part of the “Happy Chinese New Year” event. Frankfurt is one of several stops on their tour, which also includes stops in Hanau, Paris, and Lyon.
Among the mesmerized spectators was Rebecca, a student, who recorded the entire performance in Frankfurt on her phone.
“I love the dance and feel thrilled to experience Chinese New Year celebrations up close for the first time. The performers are so passionate, and they’ve brought so much joy to us. It’s truly spectacular!” she said.
Chen Tanpeng, coach of the Ximen Yingge Team, highlighted the distinctiveness of their innovative performance, saying more Chinese dance elements have been incorporated.
Juergen Scheuermann, chairman of the Hanau-Taizhou Friendship Association, spoke highly of the performance, noting that “We look forward to stronger cultural ties and deeper connections between our peoples.”
For the performers, the experience was just as exhilarating. “We came to Germany … offering a rich cultural feast to friends from around the world,” Chen said, adding, “The atmosphere here is amazing — the people are warm, the food is delicious, and we are truly delighted to celebrate the Chinese New Year in such a wonderful place.”
Wu Yanhua, deputy coach of the team, expressed pride in sharing their heritage. “Through Yingge, we hope to transcend language barriers and bring the joy of the Chinese New Year to people everywhere,” she said.
The team’s preparation for the tour was meticulous, lasting two months to ensure a stellar performance.
Beyond their performance, the team also brought a touch of home to Europe, presenting handmade gifts to local spectators, including paper cuttings, embroidered sachets, mini Spring Festival couplets, and Yingge-themed keychains.
Anna Breit, a local resident, said, “It’s wonderful … The performers’ costumes are stunning, and their performance not only brings joy but also allows us to feel the rich spirit of the Chinese New Year.”
At the close of 2024, UNESCO added the Spring Festival, social practices of the Chinese people in celebration of traditional new year, to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A year earlier, the 78th UN General Assembly recognized the Chinese New Year as an official UN holiday, underscoring the festival’s growing global presence.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BELGRADE, Feb. 1 — The Lajkovac-Valjevo motorway in Serbia, built by China’s Shandong Hi-Speed Group, was officially inaugurated on Saturday, marking the full completion of the main route.
The motorway will open to traffic on Sunday.
Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, Minister of Public Investments Darko Glisic, and Chinese Ambassador to Serbia Li Ming attended the ceremony and delivered speeches.
Vucevic described the motorway as a “road of hope, promise, and solutions,” emphasizing that its completion ends the isolation of Valjevo and the entire Kolubara District.
Glisic highlighted the project’s role in the region’s development, stating that it will attract investment and boost local incomes.
Li Ming praised the Chinese construction team for overcoming challenges to complete the project on schedule with high quality.
He expressed confidence that the road’s opening will spur economic growth and attract investment along its route. He also voiced hope for future cooperation in building more such roads.
Spanning 18.3 kilometers, the motorway, with a design speed of 100 kilometers per hour, links the central-western Serbian cities of Valjevo and Lajkovac. It is expected to ease traffic congestion and further enhance Serbia’s transport network.
“I am disappointed with U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to place tariffs on all Canadian goods. This decision will harm Canadians and Americans alike and strain the important relationship and alliance between our two nations.
“Alberta will do everything in its power to convince the U.S. President and Congress, as well as the American people, to reverse this mutually destructive policy.
“We note the reduced 10 per cent tariff for Canadian energy. That is partially a recognition of the advocacy undertaken by our government and industry to the U.S. Administration. We’ve pointed outthe substantial wealth created in the U.S. by American companies and tens of thousands of American workers who upgrade and refine approximately $100 billion of Canadian crude into $300 billion of product sold all over the world by those same U.S. companies.
“It is also worth noting that if oil and gas exports are excluded, the United States actually sells more to Canada than Canada sells to the U.S. As I’ve stated to every American policymaker I’ve met with in these past months, Canada buys more from the U.S. than does any country on earth – more than the U.K., France, Germany, Italy and Vietnam combined. There is, therefore, no economic justification for tariffs imposed on any Canadian goods.
“Alberta will continue diplomatic efforts in the United States to persuade the U.S. President, lawmakers, administration officials and the American people to lift all tariffs on Canadian goods as soon as possible and to repair our relationship with the United States. I encourage all premiers and federal officials to do the same, especially as the effects of these tariffs begin to take their toll south of the border. Americans need to understand the detrimental consequences of this policy decision.
“Alberta will also work collaboratively with the federal government and other provinces on a proportionate response to the imposed U.S. tariffs through the strategic use of Canadian import tariffs on U.S. goods that are more easily purchased from Canada and non-U.S. suppliers. This will minimize costs to Canadian consumers while creating maximum impact south of the border. All funds raised from such import tariffs should go directly to benefit the Canadians most harmed by the imposed U.S. tariffs.
“Alberta will, however, continue to strenuously oppose any effort to ban exports to the U.S. or to tax our own people and businesses on goods leaving Canada for the United States. Such tactics would hurt Canadians far more than Americans.
“We also continue Alberta’s call for the appointment of a border czar to coordinate the securing of our border against illegal migrants and drugs moving in both directions, and to achieve our nation’s two per cent of GDP NATO commitment by 2027. These things should be done for the safety of all Canadians regardless of our trade dispute with the United States
“Despite the disappointment of today’s decision there is also an incredible opportunity before us as a nation. Canada can and must come together in an unprecedented effort to preserve the livelihoods and futures of our people and expand our political and trade relationships across the globe. We can no longer afford to be so heavily reliant on one primary customer. We must stop limiting our prosperity and inflicting economic wounds on ourselves.
“Rather, we must unleash the true economic potential of our country, which possesses more wealth and natural resources than any other nation on earth.
“To this end, Alberta calls on the federal government and our fellow provinces to immediately commence a national effort to fast track and build oil and gas pipelines to the east and west coasts of Canada, construct multiple LNG terminals on each coast, increase internal refining capacity, unleash the development of critical minerals, lower taxes, reduce red tape, tear down interprovincial trade barriers and re-empower provinces to develop our unique economies without constant federal interference and imposition of anti-resource development laws.
“Our province and our nation can overcome the formidable economic challenges ahead. But we can only do so if we start acting like a healthy and functional country that supports every province to export their best resources and products to world markets, thereby achieving their unique potential. By so doing, Canada can become one of the most prosperous and powerful nations on earth. Alberta stands ready to do our part if this true Team Canada approach is taken.”