NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First International AI Safety Report to inform discussions at AI Action Summit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    First Independent International AI Safety Report to become the global handbook on AI safety, ahead of the France AI Action Summit.

    • First Independent International AI Safety Report to become the global handbook on AI safety, ahead of the France AI Action Summit
    • Inspired by the UN’s IPCC Report, the publication sets a new standard for scientific rigor in assessing AI safety
    • Brings together input from 100 world-leading AI experts put forward by 30 countries including France, China, the USA and UK, as well as the UN, EU, and OECD

    Ahead of the AI Action Summit hosted by France next month, the Independent International AI Safety Report published today sets out the first comprehensive, shared scientific understanding of advanced AI systems and their risks.  

    Spearheaded by Yoshua Bengio – a Turing Award-winning AI academic and the most cited computer scientist in the world – the report brings together insights from 100 independent international experts. Launched at the AI Safety Summit in November 2023, the report is mandated by more than 30 countries including France, China and the United States, with operational support provided by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology.  

    As policymakers worldwide grapple with rapid and unpredictable advancements in AI, today’s report contributes to bridging the gap by offering a scientific understanding of emerging risks to guide decision making.  

    The report also highlights how quickly the technology has evolved in recent years and months, including how AI systems are increasingly capable of acting as AI agents – autonomously planning and carrying out complex tasks.  

    Its publication looks to plug the gaps by building up a scientific basis of evidence to support policymakers in advancing AI safety, while the full implications of advanced AI systems are still being discovered. 

    Report’s Chair, Yoshua Bengio, Full Professor at Université de Montréal and Scientific Director of Mila – Quebec AI Institute, said:  

    The capabilities of general-purpose AI have increased rapidly in recent years and months. While this holds great potential for society, AI also presents significant risks that must be carefully managed by governments worldwide.  

    This report by independent experts aims to facilitate constructive and evidence-based discussion around these risks and serves as a common basis for policymakers around the world to understand general-purpose AI capabilities, risks and possible mitigations.

    Key areas identified for further research include how rapidly capabilities will advance, how general-purpose AI models work internally, and how they can be designed to behave reliably.  

    While there are still many challenges in mitigating the risks of general-purpose AI, the report highlights promising areas for future research and concludes that progress can be made. The report emphasises widespread agreement that improving our understanding of how AI works should be a top priority, as international governments and AI companies prepare to gather for the AI Action Summit. 

    Ultimately, the report emphasises that while AI capabilities could advance at varying speeds, their development and potential risks are not a foregone conclusion. The Report concludes by saying that the outcomes depend on the choices made by policymakers both today and in the future. 

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle said: 

    The transformative potential of AI is clear, which is why we have placed it at the heart of our government’s Plan for Change. It will help us kickstart economic growth, transform public services, and boost the living standards of working people across the country, but I remain clear eyed that safety must be baked in from the outset. 

    The UK is already at the forefront of building the global consensus needed on responsible AI, and this report will go a step further as we prepare for the AI Action Summit. It will support decision-makers with the scientific evidence they need to seize the opportunities of AI, which is a charge we are already leading by putting the technology to work to deliver more jobs, more money in people’s pockets, and transformed public services.

    French Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies, Clara Chappaz said: 

    Artificial intelligence is a central topic of our time, and its safety is a crucial foundation for building trust and fostering adoption. Scientific research must remain the fundamental pillar guiding these efforts. I salute the work of Yoshua Bengio and the international team who produced this report, work which must be perpetuated in the long term in the general interest. 

    This first comprehensive scientific assessment provides the evidence base needed for societies and governments to shape AI’s future direction responsibly. These insights will inform crucial discussions at the upcoming AI Action Summit in Paris. 

    Notes to editors

    The UK government will continue to provide the Secretariat for the report until a suitable long-term international home is agreed, and Professor Yoshua Bengio will continue acting as chair for 2025. This will be informed by ongoing global dialogues on AI governance, including those within the UN Global Digital Compact, the Network of AI Safety Institutes, and other forums, along with ongoing stakeholder consultations.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Charter for Budget Responsibility approved by Parliament

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Charter for Budget Responsibility has been approved in the House of Commons, enshrining new fiscal rules into law.

    • Rules demonstrate the government’s commitment to stability and investment to drive growth.  

    • New fiscal rules confirmed as the Chancellor commits to going further and faster to kick start economic growth and make working people better off as part of the Plan for Change.

    Today (Wednesday 29 January) the House of Commons voted to enshrine the Charter for Budget Responsibility and the new fiscal rules into law.  

    These fiscal rules provide the stability which underpins the Plan for Change and the Government’s number one priority to kickstart economic growth. 

    There are two new non-negotiable fiscal rules. The first is the stability rule which ensures that day to day spending is matched by tax revenues, so the Government is only borrowing to invest.  

    The second is the investment rule which requires the government to reduce net financial debt as a share of the economy, keeping debt on a sustainable path while allowing much needed investment to grow the economy.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    In our Plan for Change we were clear that our top priority is growth built on stability. Today I have announced how I will go further and faster on growth and our fiscal rules, which have been enshrined in law, are now non-negotiable and the bedrock of that stability.

    Through the Charter, fiscal and economic stability will be enhanced by confirming the government’s intention to move to one major fiscal event per year, giving families and businesses certainty of tax and spending plans.  

    Stability is also reinforced by confirmation that the Treasury will conduct Spending Reviews every two years, setting spending plans for at least three, to ensure public services have certainty on their funding. 

    Fiscal transparency and accountability will also be strengthened as the Chancellor has accepted all of the recommendations of the OBR’s review of the March 2024 forecast for Departmental Expenditure Limits, including to improve the spending information that the Treasury shares with the OBR. 

    In addition, the Charter now requires the OBR to report on the long-term impacts of capital investment and other policies at fiscal events, showing how economic growth and the health of the public balance sheet is bolstered by good investment decisions. 

    The Charter also outlines the detail of the fiscal lock – the first legislation passed by this government – so that no government can announce fiscally-significant measures without being subject to an independent assessment by the OBR, ensuring they can never again be sidelined.

    The legislation in full can be found on the Houses of Parliament website.

    The approved OBR Charter can be found on GOV.UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: King Charles III England Coast Path takes next steps

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    8.8 miles (14.1km) stretch between Birkenhead and Welsh border  gives public access to iconic coastline in the North West and North Wales.    

    The trail passes through New Brighton where walkers can enjoy views out over the Irish Sea before the vista changes to the Dee Estuary near to Burton Point.  

    A new section of the King Charles III England Coast Path has been opened, giving the public a legal right to the iconic coastline of the North West and North Wales.  

    The 8.8 miles (14.1km) stretch completes the Birkenhead to Welsh border section connecting existing KCIIIIEP sections northwards to the ferry across the Mersey and southwards beyond to the Welsh border, from where a link path allows you to continue south along the Wales Coast Path.    

    The iconic scenery changes as the path is followed from Birkenhead towards Wales; passing through urban and suburban promenades to beaches, low clifftop grassy paths, isolated patches of scrub and woodland and boulder clay cliffs, with spectacular views across North Wales and the mountains of Snowdonia, on a clear day  

    Initially, walkers on the eastern side of the peninsula will be able to take in the spectacle of Liverpool’s historic docks, just across the Mersey.

    After turning the corner at New Brighton, there will be views out over the Irish Sea before the vista changes to the Dee Estuary near to Burton Point.   

    Walkers can experience Wirral Way

    The trail passes by the edge of Leasowe Common and North Wirral Coastal Park, where the old Leasowe lighthouse is still a prominent landmark.

    It meanders through low sand dunes, at the edge of Red Rocks Nature Reserve before rejoining the promenade at South Parade. Walkers can also experience Wirral Way, which is a major existing walking and cycling route along Wirral’s southwestern coast.

    South of Station Road, the route rejoins the coast, continuing through Wirral County Park, with its visitor centre and café.  

    Shortly after leaving Wirral Country Park, the route takes walkers on a pleasant path through Tinker’s Dell, where traditional access to the foreshore has now been repaired and reinstated by Wirral Council, alongside the development of the KCIIIECP  

    The final stretch of the KCIIIECP connects walkers to the Welsh Border, near to Burton Point, adjacent to the military firing range.

    However, it’s possible to continue the journey via a link path, which connects to the Wales Coast Path at Hawarden. Marking both sides of the border are some unique artworks by Mike Johnson.  

    Benefits of spending time in nature

    Gerry Rusbridge, Senior advisor for Natural England in the North West, said:   

    We know that spending time in nature benefits both our physical and mental health.

    The new path opens up beautiful new countryside to the public, aiming to make it easier for as many people as possible to experience some of the most stunning and dynamic parts of the North West and Welsh coastlines.  

    The trail will also support the local economy – bringing walkers and visitors to the towns and villages for daytrips, refreshments and places to stay.

    Natural England worked on this section of the King Charles III England Coast Path with key partners including Natural Resources Wales, Flintshire County Council and Wirral Council.  

    Cllr Liz Grey, Chair of the Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee for Wirral Council, said:  

    We are already incredibly proud of our coastline in Wirral. As a peninsula it is naturally one of our defining features and along our coast we can boast we have some of the most diverse and distinctive landmarks across the whole North West. 

    We are honoured that a significant stretch of our three sides of coastline is now officially incorporated into the nationwide walking trail, the King Charles III England Coastal Path and we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to the borough to enjoy our scenery, our seaside, our internationally-significant wildlife and nature – and our hospitality.

    Cllr Chris Dolphin, Flintshire County Council Cabinet member for Planning, Economy and Environment said: 

    Flintshire County Council welcomes the King Charles III English Coast Path to our border, this will be a fantastic opportunity for communities and visitors alike to explore this wonderful link between our two countries.

    Jont Bulbeck, Outdoor Access and Recreation Team leader for Natural Resources Wales, said:   

    Being able to link up with the King Charles III England Coast Path presents lots more opportunities for people to extend and enjoy their walking experience from both sides of the border. 

    From the link route, the Wales Coast Path welcomes people to enjoy the North Wales coastline offering something for everyone, a taste of Welsh heritage and culture, accessible sections suitable for wheelchair users and families with prams with fantastic views of the Dee Estuary and Menai Strait.

    Start your adventure and discover your perfect trail with National Trails. So that everyone can make the most of the King Charles III England Coast Path, please follow the Countryside Code. This includes not bringing BBQs or dropping litter, and not lighting fires or camping stoves.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Elliott Broidy and Dr. Thomas Kaplan Co-Chair Fundraising Initiative to Convert Nazi Commandant’s Home Adjacent to Auschwitz into a New Global Center for Combating Antisemitism, Extremism, and Hate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Boca Raton, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On January 27th, International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and co-chairs of The Fund to End Antisemitism, Extremism, and Hate, Elliott Broidy and Dr. Thomas Kaplan announced the launch of a major fundraising campaign to help fund the Auschwitz Research Center on Hate, Extremism, and Radicalization (ARCHER) at House 88.

    Spearheaded by the Counter Extremism Project (CEP), ARCHER aims to transform the former residence of Auschwitz Commandant Rudolf Höss in Oświęcim, Poland, from a center of hate to a center against hate in all forms. In addition to the residence, famed architect Daniel Libeskind has designed an extraordinary new building on the grounds of House 88 to house the organization’s research, education, and advocacy activities.

    “This historic initiative represents a crucial step in our fight against extremism,” said Ambassador Mark D. Wallace, CEO of the Counter Extremism Project. “ARCHER at House 88 will serve as a vital hub for research, education, and—crucially—action in countering hate, antisemitism, and extremism globally.”

    “The lessons of history demand that we do more than just remember—we must act,” said Dr. Thomas Kaplan. “ARCHER at House 88 is not just about preserving history; it is about changing the future. By transforming this house—once a symbol of unimaginable evil—into a center dedicated to combating extremism and hate, we are sending a powerful message. But we cannot do this alone.”

    Elliott Broidy added, “This is a call to action—our fundraising efforts are critical to ensuring that this initiative succeeds in its mission to create a world free from extremism. I am thrilled that leaders and philanthropists Aryeh Bourkoff, Senator Norm Coleman, Eric Herschmann, Kenneth B. Mehlman, George Schaeffer, Lenny Sands, Ambassador Mark D. Wallace, and Dr. Herbert Wertheim have all joined the Board of the Fund.” (Board In Formation)

    Senator Norm Coleman said, “I am honored to stand in support of ARCHER at House 88 and its mission to confront antisemitism and extremism head-on. Converting the former Auschwitz Commandant’s residence into a global center for education and advocacy sends a resounding message: antisemitism, extremism, and hate will never prevail, and we are committed to building a future defined by tolerance and understanding.”

    Businessman Kenneth B. Mehlman said, “Never Again must be more than a slogan. It requires active engagement, education, and vigilance. ARCHER at House 88 will honor Auschwitz’s victims by educating, engaging, and warning future generations about the evils of genocidal hatred.”

    The ARCHER initiative is now actively seeking additional support to expand its programs, including:

    • A fellowship program for leading scholars focused on extremism research
    • Educational programs for policymakers, educators, and the public
    • Policy advocacy implementing actionable strategies to combat hate

    To learn more about ARCHER at House 88 or to make a donation, visit https://www.counterextremism.com/donate.

    For media inquiries:
    Vlad Drazdovich – vlad@redbanyan.com
    (954) 773-9456

    For fundraising inquiries:
    Robert Benton – rbenton@counterextremism.com

    About Elliott Broidy
    Elliott Broidy is an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist with a career spanning four decades. As Chairman and CEO of Broidy Capital Holdings, he has invested in over 160 companies across multiple industries. Since 9/11, his investments have focused on companies in the public safety and national security sectors. Through his philanthropic efforts, he has supported numerous organizations dedicated to countering hate and extremism, including The Simon Wiesenthal Center-Museum of Tolerance, The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL), the George Washington University Program on Extremism, and StandWithUs.

    About Dr. Thomas Kaplan
    Dr. Thomas Kaplan is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and advocate for global education, cultural preservation, and the fight against extremism. As the former President and Chairman of New York’s 92nd Street Y, a world-renowned Jewish community and cultural center in New York, Dr. Kaplan has long supported initiatives that promote Jewish history and cultural awareness. He is also the founder of the Recanati-Kaplan Intelligence Fellows Program at Harvard’s Belfer Center and co-creator of a similar program at Yale’s Jackson School of Global Affairs, furthering advancements in intelligence and geopolitical strategy. Through his philanthropic work, Dr. Kaplan is committed to fostering education, historical preservation, and impactful global change.

    About ARCHER at House 88
    ARCHER at House 88 is a global research and education center dedicated to combating extremism, antisemitism, and hate. Established by the Counter Extremism Project (CEP) in collaboration with the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and UNESCO, the center serves as a hub for scholarly research, policy development, and public education.

    About the Counter Extremism Project (CEP)
    The Counter Extremism Project (CEP) is a nonprofit, non-partisan policy organization formed in 2014 to combat extremism by pressuring financial and material support networks; combating online recruitment and communications; and promoting progressive laws, policies, and, regulations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Opportunity to tender for CLA telephone advice service contracts

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Tender opportunity for Civil Legal Advice (CLA) specialist telephone advice services from 1 September 2025.

    Organisations are now able to submit bids to deliver specialist telephone advice services under the 2025 Civil Legal Advice Contract.

    We are seeking to award:

    • Up to 4 Discrimination contracts; and
    • Up to 5 Education contracts; and
    • Up to 3 Housing and Debt contracts.

    The procurement process opened on 29 January 2025 and is open to any interested party that can meet the minimum tender requirements.

    Tender deadline

    The deadline for submitting a bid is 5pm on 10 March 2025.

    Where can I find out more?

    There is more information about the process for submitting successful bids on our tender pages. For example:

    • qualifying criteria for submitting tenders and obtaining contracts
    • tender timelines
    • using the eTendering system

    Further information

    CLA procurement process– to download guidance documents about tendering

    CLA contract – to download contract documentation

    eTendering system – to submit your tender

    Contact https://jaggaer.my.site.com/suppliersupportrequestmessaging/s/ or telephone 0800 0698630 for technical questions about using the eTendering system

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Universal Periodic Review 48: UK Statement on Madagascar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Statement at Madagascar’s Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

    Thank you, Mr Vice President,

    The United Kingdom thanks Madagascar for setting out its efforts to protect human rights. We urge the government to implement the new code of work, and to provide clarification that the work code also covers child labour.

    We urge the government to ensure that all children have access to free primary and secondary education and to strengthen children’s rights and fair living conditions.

    We recommend:

    1. Improve the quality and accessibility of services in health centres by applying free primary care, eradicating discrimination against the poor, lowering the price of medicine, and increasing the number of hospitals, health centres and health staff working in childcare.

    2. Implement a registration and identification process of children who are effectively homeless and to strengthen existing laws to protect them from further exploitation.

    3. Strengthen women’s economic empowerment and strengthen support for victims of sexual abuse.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Musical icon Joe Strummer celebrated with Legacy Stone unveiling in North Paddington | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Musician and former lead singer of The Clash, Joe Strummer, has been honoured with a legacy stone to mark his musical career near to where he once lived in North Paddington.

    The musician and his band’s music were an ever-present feature on the music scene in the late 70s and early 80s with The Clash alongside The Sex Pistols, the Jam and the Specials, producing the soundtrack of the era.

    The legacy stone was installed as part of Westminster City Council’s project to revitalise the market and Market Hill Area which had been funded by the GLA. The wider North Paddington Programme and redevelopment has been funded by the council in close collaboration with residents, local businesses and organisations.

    The plaque is situated in the newly refurbished Maida Hill Market on the corner of Walterton Road, the location where Joe Strummer squatted during the 1970s and his address of 101 Walterton Road inspired the name for the band the 101ers.

    The stone is inscribed with lyrics sung by Strummer in the song Clampdown from The Clash’s 1979 album London Calling.  It reads: “the future is unwritten”, “No man born with a living soul can be working for the clampdown”. A nod to the band’s rebellious political awareness and passion for raising social issues and injustices of the time.

    At the stone unveiling, Cllr Ryan Jude Westminster City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Climate Action and Ecology said:

    As a city we there is history on every street corner. Music is an intrinsic part of the Westminster’s DNA and it’s wonderful to celebrate Joe Strummer’s musical journey which began in Maida Hill and North Paddington.

    We’re so proud to have played a part in unveiling this legacy stone to celebrate the music and work of Joe Strummer. I hope in doing so this inspires the next generation of young residents to show you can have a career in the arts and turn their passion into a profession.”  

    Dylan White, music promoter and fan of The Clash said:

    It’s important to remember how an artist starts their career as often this is forgotten and just the success is remembered. In this case in the Joe, the 101’ers evolved from their squat at 101 Walterton Road and were a big part of the local area at that time playing in most of the nearby pubs.”

    The Clash and punk were a long way in the future at this point, so we need to remember and celebrate his time in this part of London as he cut his teeth and learnt his stage craft.”

    The Joe Strummer Fund is a joint undertaking between the Joe Strummer Estate and Single Homeless Project to support artists and creatives who have experienced of homelessness in creating new and original music and media.

    Portobello Radio were instrumental in organising the event and provided musical entertainment throughout the day.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Search for sympathetic use for historic house

    Source: City of Plymouth

    We are currently looking for a dynamic, sensitive and funded individual or organisation who could give a new and sympathetic lease of life to one of the city’s oldest buildings – the Merchant’s House.

    The property, which dates back to the 16th Century, was once a museum but has been closed for almost a decade.

    Now the Council is hoping to hear from companies, organisations or individuals who are keen to see this incredible Grade II* building come alive once more.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member responsible for the city’s assets said: “This is not a decision we have taken lightly but we need to do something. We have invested millions in the Box and the Elizabethan House, but we currently have no use for this building and no prospect of funding to restore this house.

    “We very much hope some thinkers and doers with the finances and the wherewithal to take on a project like this will come forward.

    “The house has been closed for almost a decade and is slowly degrading over time. We hope this appeal will generate interest and open up new possibilities for this building.”

    Ideas could include a heritage attraction, a tea shop with an historic slant, offices for a business – although the preference would be to enable some form of public access.

    While it is not known exactly when the house was built, its first recorded owner was a privateer named William Parker, a friend of Sir Francis Drake. Like Drake he combined a career as a merchant with privateering and civic government. He also served as Mayor of Plymouth from 1601 to 1602.

    He served under Drake in 1588 in the fight against the Spanish Armada and carried out raids against the Spanish in the Caribbean. In 1601 he captured a pair of treasure ships laden with 10,000 gold ducats and on his return to Plymouth, was elected Mayor and used the profits from his ventures to remodel an older house on this site into a fashionable timber-framed house.

    Parker helped promote the Plymouth Company to colonise North America and took an active interest in the Virginia Colony. He died in 1618 on a voyage to the East Indies. His heirs lived here before it was passed to Abraham Rowe, another successful merchant and in 1651 the house was purchased by Justinian Beard, Mayor of Plymouth on two occasions.

    It was occupied by the Beele family until 1707, then by the Martyn family until 1807. In 1807 the building was extended to the rear (towards Finewell Street) and the front used as a shop. In the 1960s it was a taxi office, then restored by the Council and turned into a museum of local heritage, focussing on life in Plymouth over time. Rooms included recreating the Blitz experience and a replica Victorian schoolroom.

    The Council is keen to explore all options including a sale or a long commercially viable lease. Interested parties should provide the following when submitting an offer:

    • Purchase price/rental offer
    • Purchaser details
    • Conditions
    • Proposed use/development plans
    • Finance/evidence of funding
    • Track record in restoration of historic buildings
    • Timescales

    Proposed uses sensitive to the property’s historical significance will be given higher consideration. Interested parties should email Laura Hathaway from the Council’s Land and Property Team at [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Launch of the Ramsar management plans29 January 2025 New management plans have been published for Jersey’s four Ramsar sites. A Ramsar site is a wetland designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The plans set out strategic… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    29 January 2025

    New management plans have been published for Jersey’s four Ramsar sites. 

    A Ramsar site is a wetland designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The plans set out strategic aims and management objectives of those sites over the next five years, 2025-2029. 

    Jersey’s Ramsar sites include: 

    • South-east coast of Jersey 
    • Les Écréhous and Les Dirouilles 
    • Les Minquiers 
    • Les Pierres de Lecq (the Paternosters) 

    The Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, said: “The plans demonstrate our commitment to protecting Jersey’s unique wetland environments. Ramsar sites are internationally recognised for their ecological, cultural, and economic significance, and these new management plans outline clear objectives for the sustainable management, monitoring, and protection of these valuable areas. 

    “I would like to extend a special thanks to the Jersey Ramsar Advisory Group for their contribution to the development of these plans.” 

    For more information and to view the plans, visit: The Convention on Wetlands: Jersey’s Ramsar Sites​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on the Water Quality Safety Programme and PFAS developments29 January 2025 ​​The Government of Jersey remains committed to keeping Islanders informed about the ongoing Water Quality and Safety Programme and recent updates on PFAS. Minutes of the Last Public Meeting The minutes… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    29 January 2025

    ​​
    The Government of Jersey remains committed to keeping Islanders informed about the ongoing Water Quality and Safety Programme and recent updates on PFAS. 

    Minutes of the Last Public Meeting 

    The minutes from the most recent public meeting have now been uploaded to our website. This meeting included a presentation on Report Two – Assessment of Evidence of PFAS on Health and provided updates on the formation of the Water Quality and Safety Programme. Islanders can access the minutes here. 

    Question and Answer Document 

    Following discussions at the meeting and correspondence received, we have compiled a detailed Question and Answer document addressing key queries. This document is now available here. 

    Next public meeting 

    We are pleased to confirm that the next public meeting: 

    When: Tuesday 11 February 2025 

    Where: Les Ormes at 6 PM. 

    The session will focus on the public scoping of Report Four – PFAS in the Environment, offering an opportunity for Islanders to contribute to shaping the final scope of the report.

    We encourage all interested parties to attend and participate.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Apprenticeship Week to highlight ideal pathway to full time employment

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Apprenticeship Week to highlight ideal pathway to full time employment

    29 January 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Labour Market Partnership are hosting a number of events for prospective apprentices and employers to mark Apprenticeship Week 2025.

    The Northern Ireland wide initiative, from Monday February 3rd to Friday February 5th 2025, seeks to celebrate and showcase the value of apprenticeships for individuals, businesses, communities and the wider economy.

    The events highlight the apprenticeship route as an alternative to full time education and will allow prospective employers and candidates to connect and learn more about the options available.

    Labour Market Partnership (LMP) Manager, Nicky Gilleece, explained more about the format of the combination of training and employment.

    “Apprenticeships take between two and four years to complete and offer paid employment for participants who can earn as they learn while working alongside experienced staff and gaining experience and qualifications specific to their chosen industry,” she explained.

    “The Derry Strabane LMP work proactively with the North West Regional College, the Careers Service and local private training providers to actively promote this as a viable pathway and to create jobs for young people.

    “We are organising a number of events this week for both employers and students interested in pursuing this route and I would encourage them to access the programme now and get involved.”

    The programme starts on Wednesday February 5th with an Employer Support Lunchtime Briefing for employers based in the Waterside area at the BEAM Centre in Maydown.

    On Thursday February 6th, the LMP will host an Employer Apprenticeship Brunch at 11am in the Guildhall’s Main Hall followed by an Apprenticeship and Careers Fair from 1pm-4pm where prospective apprentices, parents, guardians and school careers staff can meet with employers and education providers to learn more about the opportunities available in the Council area.
    On Friday February 7th employers can attend a Networking Business Breakfast from 8.30am to 12.30pm at Strabane Golf Club which will be followed by an Apprenticeship Lunch Expo from 12.30pm to 2.30pm where anyone considering an apprenticeship can get more information.

    For full details on the Apprenticeship programme visit http://getapprenticeships.me/ or email [email protected].

    For a listing of Apprenticeship Week Events visit https://www.derrystrabane.com/services/employment,-skills-training

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Maybury Primary School officially opens as excited pupils move in

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    ‘First of its kind’, Maybury Primary School has this week welcomed its first pupils – 25 excited P1 learners – into the brand-new school building. 

    The group of children, who have been based at neighbouring East Craigs Primary School since August 2024 are the first intake at the new school which will offer capacity for up to three streams, including 630 primary pupils and 128 nursery pupils. The next group of children will join the new school in August 2025. The school’s catchment area includes the new housing developments in Cammo and West Craigs.

    Maybury Primary School is built to the Passivhaus standard, a highly energy-efficient construction method that regulates air temperature in classrooms, creating a more comfortable learning environment. This approach supports The City of Edinburgh Council’s 2030 net-zero target by significantly reducing the building’s energy consumption.

    The new primary school is part of the ‘Maybury Community Hub’ and is the first school in Edinburgh to share a campus with a medical practice. The hub will maximise the use of its buildings, allowing local residents to access services close to where they live in line with the ’20 minute neighbourhood’ strategy.

    Councillor Joan Griffiths, Education, Children and Families Convener said:

    It is great to see that the new Maybury Primary School has welcomed its first group of learners into the building. The head teacher and her team have worked hard to ensure that the transition from East Craigs Primary School into the new school is smooth for the P1 children and I know that they are all excited to get settled into their new school environment.

    The new building has been constructed to be fit for the future and the ‘hub’ model means that the building can be used by the whole community, which is fantastic. The construction of Maybury Primary School is part of a broader initiative to meet the needs of new families who have moved into the area, alongside working to achieve the Council’s ambition to meet future demands and support community growth.
     

    Published: January 29th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI world premiere helps to bang drum on air quality

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool has turned its famous musical talent to AI for a world premiere influenced by….air pollution!

    Liverpool City Council, the University of Liverpool and The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra have combined to create a piece of AI-written music to promote clean air policies in cities.

    Dr Jonny Higham from the University of Liverpool, in partnership with Liverpool City Council, has led the development of one of the UK’s largest city-wide air quality monitoring networks.

    This pioneering work has generated a unique dataset, transformed into a musical composition using cutting-edge AI technology.

    In a celebration of innovation and creativity, the Liverpool Philharmonic String Quartet has brought this data to life in an incredible performance, merging science and art in a truly unique way.

    The strong collaborations developed were showcased for Clean Air Night in a live performance of the piece by students from the University of Liverpool’s Music Department at the waterfront, where the buildings were lit up in blue to mark the occasion.

    Across the city region, air quality varies significantly throughout the year, with multiple breaches of the stringent 5 µg/m³ daily average recommended by the WHO, as is common in large urban areas. The musical composition is crafted to reflect this.

    The instruments come together harmoniously in some sections and transition to atonality to symbolise periods of increased pollution. The piece contains 365 notes, each representing a single day of 2024, capturing the region’s air quality journey over the year.

    The strong collaboration across the city was showcased in the Clean Air Night celebration, creating a powerful conversation piece that highlights Liverpool’s united efforts to lead the way in air quality research.

    The City of Liverpool is positioning itself as a leader in urban environmental action. 

    Liverpool City Council is committed to creating a cleaner, healthier, more sustainable city through a range of initiatives.

    This includes implementing 65 School Streets to reduce traffic near schools, supported by camera enforcement, and transitioning the Council’s vehicle fleet from diesel to electric, boosting both air quality and progress toward net-zero emissions.

    A comprehensive Clean Air Plan is also underway, outlining clear actions to reduce roadside nitrogen dioxide levels.

    Furthermore, the Council’s Active Travel Plan will enhance walking and cycling infrastructure across the city, with new routes, improved wayfinding, and additional bike parking, ensuring residents benefit from safer and more sustainable travel options.

    And residents across Liverpool will benefit from the Council’s Active Travel plan, which will support the introduction of more walking and cycling routes, wayfinding and an increase of parking for bikes.

    The full video of the performance can be watched here.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “The creation of music from air quality data is a really creative way of highlighting where we are in our plans to improve air quality throughout Liverpool.

    “The impact on residents’ health, particularly children, is important to remember. That’s why I’m proud of the work we are already doing as a council to reduce the pollutants in our atmosphere. These are projects that will benefit everyone in the city and ensure we have a city that is healthy and thriving.”

    Prof Ian Sinha, Consultant Respiratory Paediatrician at Alder Hey Hospital, said: “Air quality is the factor which affects children the most. In fact, the poorest children the hardest hit. So they will suffer the effects of the pollution that they breathe in as children – potentially for the rest of their life.”

    Dr Jonny Higham, from the University of Liverpool, said: “For the last five or six years I’ve been working to build an air quality network in collaboration with Liverpool City Council and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

    “Across the whole of the city so we’ve now got 55 air quality sensors and we analyse the air quality across the whole of the city.

    “Clean Air Night is to get us thinking a little bit about what we can do to reduce our pollution. Music that we’ve created from our data by converting it using artificial intelligence has been performed live and also we’ve had the Philharmonic string quartet perform it too.

    “It’s been brilliant project helping to communicate the importance of air quality.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: When creating energy capacities, it is necessary to take into account the advanced socio-economic development of the Far East

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting on energy in the Far Eastern Federal District

    January 29, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting on energy in the Far Eastern Federal District

    January 29, 2025

    Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev at a meeting on energy in the Far Eastern Federal District

    January 29, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting on energy in the Far Eastern Federal District

    Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev held a meeting on the energy sector in the Far Eastern Federal District. The meeting was attended by Minister of Energy Sergey Tsivilev, Minister for the Development of the Far East and Arctic Alexey Chekunkov, and heads of Far Eastern regions.

    “We are discussing one of the most pressing issues for the economic strengthening of the Far East – the development of the electric power industry. Today, investment projects that are being implemented in the Far East are already facing difficulties with energy supply. The Russian government has approved the General Scheme for the placement of electric power facilities until 2042. At the Eastern Economic Forum, I proposed to specify the program and break it down into specific periods. It is necessary to ensure that the number of energy facilities that will be built within the timeframes determined by the Ministry of Energy and the Government is sufficient to implement investment projects,” Yuri Trutnev opened the meeting.

    According to the Ministry of Energy, in 2024, the total consumption in the United Energy System of the East, the energy systems of the Zabaikalsky Krai and the Republic of Buryatia, as well as isolated territories amounted to 74.3 billion kWh, showing an increase of 5.2% compared to 2023. Over the next 18 years, the Far East is expected to maintain a growth rate of electricity consumption that exceeds the Russian average. Thus, in 2024–2030, it is projected to be 4.9% (2.1% in the country) and 1.38% (0.94% in the country) in subsequent periods.

    At the end of 2024, the Ministry of Energy approved the scheme and program for the development of Russian electric power systems for 2025–2030. The government approved the General Scheme for the placement of electric power facilities until 2042. In the near future, the Ministry of Energy will present proposals to clarify the program by dividing it into periods up to 2030, 2036, and 2042.

    Yuri Trutnev instructed the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East, the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation, and Far Eastern regions to submit data to the Government and the Ministry of Energy on the need for electricity volumes and the need to build generating facilities. “The task is very simple: we need to provide all investment projects – both those already being implemented and those that will be created in the Far East – with electricity on time and at the most affordable prices,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    According to Yuri Trutnev, plans to create new energy capacities should not only take into account the needs of investment projects already being implemented and those planned for implementation, but also create a surplus of electricity in the Far Eastern regions.

    “Currently, more than 2.8 thousand investment projects are being implemented in the Far East. No one will give exact plans on how many such projects there will be in a few years. The answer to the question of their number depends on investment demand and decisions of enterprise and business leaders. This is a flexible process. But we are sure that the number of investment projects in the Far East will grow. Therefore, it would be a good idea to create a reserve of capacity. And if there is a surplus of electricity, then reserve it for mining for now, because simply keeping a reserve is expensive. And when it is used for mining, then we will not incur any costs in general. This must be done in all Far Eastern regions, because all territories of the Far East, in accordance with the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation, must develop faster. We will deal with this issue separately. We will try to collect this entire scheme in the Far East,” he said.

    “Together with the regions and relevant departments, we will compare current plans for the implementation of investment projects for the next six years and agree on their list, implementation dates and technical parameters. We will also analyze the previously formed forecast of demand for electricity and capacity, after which the updated data will be submitted to the government commission for consideration,” said Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev.

    Yuri Trutnev drew the special attention of the leadership of the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East, and heads of regions to the need to work out issues of using renewable energy sources.

    “Special attention must be paid to the environmental component of the projects. People want to breathe clean air and want energy to be produced from clean fuels. In the Far East, such opportunities exist, even starting with the construction of hydroelectric power stations. We received a very high energy potential from the Soviet Union, but we should not simply eat it up. We must recreate it. This is one of the main tasks,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Chad’s parliamentary election hands Mahamat Déby absolute control. Here’s why it’s dangerous

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Helga Dickow, Senior Researcher at the Arnold Bergstraesser Institut, Freiburg Germany, University of Freiburg

    Chad held parliamentary elections in late December 2024. The final results released on 21 January 2025 gave the well-established former ruling party, the Movement Patriotique du Salut (MPS), 124 seats out of 188.

    The election marked the end of a four-year transition in Chad following the death of former president Idriss Déby Itno in March 2021. Déby had ruled Chad since 1991. Mahamat Déby Itno assumed power on the death of his father.

    The result has meant that Mahamat Déby has given himself a degree of legitimacy as president through elections. He can comfortably remain in power for at least another five or even ten years.

    Read more: Chad’s election outcome already seems set: 4 things Mahamat Déby has done to stay in power

    I have been following Chad’s politics from inside and outside the country for more than 15 years. In my view, Mahamat Déby’s actions during the transition, with the help of the transitional authorities and his late father’s old teams, were aimed at keeping him in power. The December 2024 parliamentary elections were a formality. The poll was not won on polling day. It was clear from the run-up that, as was the case with the May 2024 presidential elections, every effort was being made to minimise the success of the opposition.

    Four factors stand out. They are the composition of the electoral authorities, lack of an up-to-date electoral register, violence against dissenting voices, and high costs of participation in the election.

    In my view Chadians’ trust in the democratic process has ceased completely. This bodes ill for a country that ranks as one of the poorest. It is also one of the most corrupt. The consolidation of Mahamat Déby’s power could widen the social divide and lead to violent conflict between different groups in Chad, which is highly stratified along ethnic and religious lines.

    Dissatisfaction with his decades of autocratic rule characterised Idriss Déby’s reign. Political-military movements challenged him regularly, and the last attack led to his death.

    This dissatisfaction will continue and could once again lead to violent conflicts.

    Read more: Chad: promises of a new chapter fade as junta strengthens its hold ahead of elections

    Corruption of the process

    Mahamat Déby and the Movement Patriotique du Salut took a number of steps to secure victory in the election.

    Firstly, the presidents of the electoral authority ANGE (Agence Nationale de Gestion des Élections) and of the constitutional court nominated by Mahamat Déby were responsible for organising and for validating elections (and will continue to be responsible until 2031). Having been loyal to Idriss Déby and now to his son, they cannot be trusted to be objective and independent in their pronouncements and final decisions.

    Secondly, the electoral register was last updated in August 2024. Therefore, young people who had just turned 18 could not vote. In Chad, the majority of the population is under 25. Young people in particular in the south support the opposition.

    Thirdly, the transitional regime’s violent crackdown on opposing voices played a role in the final outcome of the election.

    The transition was initially characterised by peace talks with the political-military movements and by expanding the security sector to secure its rule. In October 2022, several hundred mainly young people were killed by security forces while demonstrating against the extension of the transition and Mahamat Déby’s candidacy for presidency.

    In the intervening period the state took various steps against opposition figures.

    In February 2024 Yaya Dillo, a cousin of Mahamat Deby and a potential rival in the presidential elections, was shot dead by security forces.

    In May 2024, Mahamat Déby was elected president. In December 2024 he took on the title of marshal – previously held only by his father.

    The opposition was also hampered in participating in the poll for financial reasons. Taking part in the elections is expensive. Each candidate in the parliamentary election had to pay 500,000 CFA (US$785) to the treasury. Candidates for the provincial election paid 200,000 CFA (US$314). In poverty-stricken Chad, without regular funding for political parties, it was particularly difficult for smaller parties to meet these criteria.

    The situation was different for the ruling party, founded by Idriss Déby. For decades it has benefited from state resources. It is the only party with a nationwide presence. Other parties are mainly active in the regions of their founders.

    Read more: Chad’s Mahamat Deby doubles down on authoritarian rule in wake of election victory

    Resistance

    Opposition parties called for a boycott. The Groupe de Concertation des Acteurs Politiques, a coalition of nine parties, criticised the new electoral law and the lack of transparency of the count at the polling stations.

    Succès Masra, leader of Les Transformateurs, a former prime minister who came second in the 2024 presidential elections, also called for a boycott. He accused the government of falsifying the results of the parliamentary election beforehand and of having the final lists saved in a computer. His party did not participate in the poll.

    The results of the parliamentary elections presented on 11 January 2025 by Ahmed Barticheret, president of the electoral commission, and confirmed by the constitutional court on 21 January, therefore revealed no surprises.

    Alongside the huge victory of the Movement Patriotique du Salut, two other parties not really in opposition won 12 and 7 seats respectively. The other successful parties won just one seat each. Chad has over 300 political parties, of which 38 are represented in the new parliament.

    Read more: Chad presidential election: assassination of main opposition figure casts doubt on country’s return to democracy

    Consequences

    Movement Patriotique du Salut has an overwhelming majority in parliament. This means that there are no checks and balances. Like his father, Mahamat Déby can continue to rule without any parliamentary control.

    He is already used to that. Since 2021, he has appointed members of the transitional parliament by presidential decree. The few voices of individual members of parliament belonging to the “real” opposition have no influence.

    As the low turnout – put at 40% on election day – shows, the majority of voters did not expect the election result to change the political situation. On the other hand, supporters of the ruling party continue to benefit from proximity to power and state resources.

    As dissatisfaction continues, the possibility of renewed attacks by dissidents cannot be ruled out. If it is not a military attack, frustrated individuals might try to target the presidency or other symbols of the regime.

    In early January 2025 a group of unidentified young people reportedly attacked the presidency. The incident was played down by the government spokesman, leaving plenty of room for speculation.

    But it was a reminder that a peaceful future is not assured.

    – Chad’s parliamentary election hands Mahamat Déby absolute control. Here’s why it’s dangerous
    – https://theconversation.com/chads-parliamentary-election-hands-mahamat-deby-absolute-control-heres-why-its-dangerous-248342

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Farming company fined for breaching slurry spreading regulations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A farm company and its director has been fined and ordered to pay costs totalling almost £8,000 after failing to ensure land spreading did not cause pollution.

    Richard Jonty Mason, 52, of Higher Highfield Farm at Slaidburn in Clitheroe, attending on behalf of himself and as director of RJ Mason Ltd of Dalton Square in Lancaster, appeared at Blackburn magistrates’ court on Monday 20 January.

    Both he and the company pleaded guilty to one charge under Farming Rules for Water legislation of failing to ensure that slurry-spreading to agricultural land at Higher Highfield Farm was planned so that it did not cause a risk of pollution. 

    The company was ordered to pay a total of £6,575 – a fine of £1,125, costs of £5,000 and a victim surcharge of £450. Richard Mason was fined £137, ordered to pay costs of £1,000 and a victim surcharge of £55 – paying a total of £1,192.

    Jackie Monk, investigating officer from the Environment Agency, said:

    This acts as a reminder for landowners and farmers to ensure they follow the correct procedures for spreading safely.

    Spreading slurry to land is common practice, but steps must be taken to protect the environment. We will take action against anyone who breaches the regulations and puts the environment at risk.

    The court heard that RJ Mason Ltd farms Higher Highfield Farm for dairy, in the heart of the Forest of Bowland. A couple of unnamed streams cross the farm, both tributaries of the River Hodder.

    Slurry spreading regulations breached

    Between 15 and 18 October 2021, the company emptied its slurry tank and spread slurry to 8 fields.

    Slurry-spreading is common practice but care must be taken not to apply it in excess, or it can cause agricultural diffuse pollution – where nutrients wash off the land and into the water – and have a detrimental impact on the environment.  

    It’s a legal requirement to plan applications of slurry so that spreading does not cause a significant risk of pollution.

    To calculate the total amount of nutrients that can safely be applied to crop, soil samples must be taken from each field, a crucial step to understand how much additional nutrients can be safely applied to the soil. Only 3 of the 8 fields had soil tests before the spreading.

    An analysis of the company’s slurry spreading plans by the Environment Agency revealed that during 2021, several fields received multiple applications of slurry.

    One field, for example, received 6 applications of slurry between 2 January and 15 October 2021. The total nitrogen applied to this field in 2021 was 505 kg/hectare, which is more than double the limit set by the Code of Good Agricultural Practice for total nitrogen from organic manure applications, which is 250 kg/ha in any 12 month period.

    Other fields received more than 400 kg/ha total nitrogen from organic manure in 2021. Over-application gives rise to a risk of agricultural diffuse pollution.

    The Environment Agency concluded the spreading activity at the farm appeared to be the company wanting to dispose of the contents of the slurry storage tank.  

    The court found the actions of the company and Mason, as director, were reckless, with the failure to obtain soil samples for 5 out of 8 of the fields leading to a risk of pollution.

    Both were of previous good character and there was evidence they had taken steps to remedy the problem.

    Background

    Full charges:

    R J Mason Limited

    Between 14 October 2021 and 19 October 2021, RJ Mason Limited failed to ensure that each application of organic manure to agricultural land at Higher Highfield Farm was planned so that it did not give rise to a significant risk of agricultural diffuse pollution…

    …contrary to regulation 4 and 11(1) of the Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018.

    Richard Mason

    Between 14 October 2021 and 19 October 2021, Richard Jonty Mason, at the relevant time being a director of RJ Mason Limited (“the company”) is liable for the offence by the company set out below as that offence was committed with his consent or connivance or was attributable to any neglect by him contrary to regulation 11(3) of the Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018. The offence by the company being that on days between 14 October 2021 and 19 October 2021, it failed to ensure that each application of organic manure to agricultural land at Higher Highfield Farm was planned so that it did not give rise to a significant risk of agricultural diffuse pollution…

    …contrary to regulation 4 and 11(1) of the Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cabinet approves direct employment for Public Health leadership 29 January 2025 Cabinet approves direct employment for Public Health leadership

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight Council’s Cabinet has decided to recruit a new director of Public Health to lead the Island’s public health service.

    The decision was made earlier this month when the future of public health leadership was considered.

    The current partnership with Hampshire County Council will not be renewed at the end of August, prompting the need for a new leadership structure for the Island.

    The Cabinet considered various options, including potential new partnership models, but ultimately decided that direct employment of a Director of Public Health would offer the greatest flexibility, stability and continued improvements.

    The council is now focused on finding a highly qualified candidate to fill this crucial, statutory role. The council is optimistic about attracting top talent due to the positive standing of its public health function.

    The new director will be supported by an increase in specialist skills to further enhance the existing public health team, ensuring robust leadership and continued improvements in service delivery.

    Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for Public Health, said: “With the Island in a stronger position in relation to our Public Health responsibilities, now is a sensible time to consider the future of our public health leadership.

    “We need to ensure that we continue to deliver high-quality outcomes for Island residents with minimal disruption to public health services.

    “This decision underscores the council’s commitment to maintaining high standards in public health services and addressing the specific needs of the Isle of Wight community.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Votes Against Bill to Sanction International Criminal Court Officials

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement after Senate Democrats blocked legislation that would have caused irreparable harm to the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has a mandate to prosecute and punish war crimes: 
    “Building lasting peace requires justice and ensuring accountability for violations of international humanitarian law in Ukraine, in Gaza, and wherever they occur. The United States was instrumental in establishing the International Criminal Court to prosecute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide when domestic justice systems fail to act. That is a key limitation which the ICC’s critics—including Senate Republicans—often neglect to acknowledge: the ICC does not supplant the courts of any country. It has jurisdiction only when domestic justice systems fail to prosecute and punish war criminals.   
    “Yet, instead of waiting to hear the evidence, the White House and some in Congress attempted to selectively sanction the ICC’s judges and prosecutors, which would have damaged our own credibility, the credibility of the Court, and the rule of law. The ICC is only as effective as the international community’s willingness to enforce the Geneva Conventions and hold violators accountable. And while its indictments and rulings, like any court, will always have detractors, there cannot be one standard of justice for war crimes committed by our adversaries and a lesser standard for our allies.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lean Manufacturing Technologies: GUU to Become Pilot Universities in Federal Project

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The State University of Management held a meeting between the rector’s office and representatives of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation and the Federal Competence Center (FCC) to discuss the issue of including SUM in the list of pilot universities for the implementation of the lean manufacturing initiative.

    The State University of Management was represented by: Rector Vladimir Stroev, representatives of the rector’s office and other departments.

    The delegation of guests included: Head of the Monitoring and Statistics Department of the Department for Coordination of Activities of Educational Organizations of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia Alena Petrenko and representatives of the Federal Center for Strategic Studies Vyacheslav Tikhomirov and Ekaterina Nikolenko.

    Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroev spoke about the rich experience of interaction with ministries and implementation of joint projects.

    “GUU has a close-knit team, ready to implement solutions and maximally interested in the success of our university, especially in terms of development. We have a separate department for this issue. Moreover, many ministries are already implementing various solutions on our platform, so we are ready for this. Thus, for the Ministry of Economic Development we carry out many different tasks, including organizing foreign internships for graduates of the Presidential Program, we are also the operator of the competition “My Good Business” and much more,” shared Vladimir Vitalievich.

    Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Dmitry Bryukhanov outlined the issues proposed for discussion.

    “GUU has joined the pilot universities for the application of lean manufacturing ideology in educational institutions. Much is happening in the sphere of lean schooling, it is widely used in industry, and we are already seeing a positive effect from process optimization. For the first time, the experience of using lean technologies will be applied in university practice. The task of universities is to determine the main directions and goals for implementing this initiative,” Dmitry Yuryevich noted.

    Alena Petrenko spoke about what has already been done within the framework of the project and what plans there are for the implementation of lean technologies for this year.

    “The project will be implemented in close cooperation with the Federal Competence Center, the coordinator is the socio-center. Inter-ministerial cooperation between the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Economic Development will be implemented. The project passport and its roadmap have already been formed, pilot participating universities have been identified. By the end of the year, we must develop and implement solutions in five universities, and by the end of 2030, connect absolutely all higher education institutions subordinate to the Ministry of Education and Science to the lean manufacturing system. An important point is the rector’s interest and the university’s readiness for change,” said the head of the monitoring and statistics department of the Department for Coordination of Educational Organizations of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia.

    Vyacheslav Tikhomirov shared details about the upcoming project.

    “The work will be carried out within the framework of the federal project “Labor Productivity”, in which a significant number of industrial enterprises are already participating, and now it will be expanded to the social sphere. How it is implemented: we examine and describe in detail the processes in the organization in order to identify losses based on lean manufacturing, i.e. those actions that take resources but do not produce an effect. Together with the university working group, we will find ways to solve them and improve the process. As a result, we will receive a collection of best practices of boxed solutions, on the basis of which all organizations will be able to find techniques to improve their own indicators,” explained the head of the department for the implementation of projects in the social sphere of the FCC.

    The participants studied the project presentation and discussed possible areas of work, after which they went on a tour of the university.

    At the end of the meeting, it was decided to create a working group to implement the project and continue interaction.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 01/29/2025

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Unveils 100x Leverage Crypto Trading with Double Deposit Bonus & $50 Welcome Offer—No KYC Needed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the price of Bitcoin surpassed the $100,000 mark and many analysts believe that it will enter a long-term high-volatility market. Holding spot positions may not continue to generate profits in the short term. BexBack Exchange is stepping up its efforts to provide traders with irresistible preferential packages. The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and a 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, creating unparalleled opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $60,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $63,000, your profit will be (63,000 – 60,000) * 100 BTC / 60,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 200,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

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    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d653f906-7908-4200-ab66-0a9a33b3d84e

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b9f6b25-c7eb-436a-8fb8-e59f1ccd5634

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/101ef4e2-f376-4588-a21e-03d8031d15c5

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5a9c839a-4633-419f-92e6-dfaeefb06023

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund announces plans to divest assets in the amount of approximately EUR 55 million as part of its strategic effort to bring down LTV

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Having recently received expressions of interest from several investors, the management team has engaged local advisors Newsec Advisers UAB and Redgate Capital AS to assist Baltic Horizon Fund (the Fund) in a structured divestment process.

    In February of 2024, Baltic Horizon Fund‘s management team introduced its strategic objectives to stabilize the Fund and build a solid foundation for the future. The past year, the focus has been on signing new leases in order to increase the net operating income and managing the cash position of the Fund.

    Building on the progress that has been made to repay the outstanding bonds and increase the occupancy of the portfolio, the management team sees recovery in the transaction market and has therefore initiated a structured process with the intention to dispose certain of its real estate assets, where the Fund does not see significant short-term opportunities for further value optimization.

    The ambition is to sell up to three assets, in the approximate amount of EUR 55 million including Postimaja and CC Plaza complex in Tallinn, Estonia. The management team has achieved 100% occupancy and prepared the complex for the next life cycle. The site holds potential for further real estate development, which, however, is not the core focus of the Fund going forward.

    The intended disposals are expected to result in a significant reduction in the LTV, considerable improvement of the DSCR and, if executed as planned, repayment of the outstanding bond, bringing the Fund’s LTV below the strategic target of 50%.

    “The intended divestment process is part of the strategic direction for Baltic Horizon Fund, it is expected to markedly improve the net cash flow generation of the Fund and provide a stable platform for the future growth,” says Fund Manager Tarmo Karotam.

    The goal is to enter into agreement with potential buyers during the first half of 2025. There is no certainty that any transaction will transpire. Further announcements will be made as and when appropriate.

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Pål Jonson attends Nordic defence ministers meeting

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Pål Jonson attends Nordic defence ministers meeting – Government.se

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    Press release from Ministry of Defence

    Published

    On Thursday 30 January, the Nordic defence ministers will meet in Helsinki within the framework of the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO), with Minister for Defence Pål Jonson attending from Sweden.

    Finnish Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen will host the meeting, and Thursday’s agenda includes defence cooperation between the Nordic countries, current NATO matters such as defence appropriations, and continued support to Ukraine.

    Finland is chair of NORDEFCO in 2025. 

    Press contact

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Yorkshire man ordered to clear illegal waste site

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A man has been given two months to clear waste from an illegal site in North Yorkshire following an investigation by the Environment Agency.

    Image shows illegal waste stored on the site at Catterick.

    Oliver Henry Alexander King, 52, of Bedale, North Yorkshire, appeared at York Magistrates’ Court on Friday 24 January 2025, where he pleaded guilty to one charge of operating a waste site without an environmental permit, and one charge of failing to comply with a notice to clear waste from the site.

    He was sentenced to a 12 month community order with 110 hours of unpaid work, ordered to pay costs of £5,422.75 and a victim surcharge of £114.

    He was also ordered to clear the site of waste by 21 March, 2025. This regulation 44 order requires King to remove all waste from the site and take it to a permitted site for disposal. If he fails to comply he could be subject to further action.

    Waste crime puts ‘environment at risk’

    Ian Foster, Environment Agency Area Environment Manager, said:

    Environmental permits are in place to protect the public and environment and the way the waste was stored at this site posed a risk of contamination and fire.

    King was given a number of opportunities to clear the site of waste but failed to comply with the instructions from our officers. 

    Illegal activity such as this undermines legitimate businesses that work hard to operate within the regulations, as well as putting the environment at risk and impacting on the local community.

    The court heard that King rented land next to allotments at Oran Lane in Catterick.

    On 22 June 2023, Environment Agency officers attended the site following reports of an illegal waste operation.

    They saw a significant amount of waste piled up including wood, plastics, metal, and construction and demolition waste, as well as household waste like fridges and freezers.

    The waste, which was close to a local watercourse, posed a risk of groundwater and surface water pollution and was stored in one big pile, posing a fire risk.

    An Environment Agency letter was sent to King with actions including to stop bringing waste on to the site and to start clearing the waste that was already present immediately. He was given until 21 August, 2023 to comply.

    Image shows illegal waste stored at the site in Catterick.

    Deadline for waste removal extended

    Follow up visits by officers revealed that while some waste had been removed, most still remained. It did appear King had stopped bringing waste on to site and he said financial and vehicle issues had prevented the waste from being removed.

    He was given until 28 February, 2024, to comply with the original deadline.

    On 20 March, 2024, Environment Agency officers went to the site to check compliance with the notice, and it was apparent that the pile of waste remained unchanged.

    In interview in May 2024 King said he claimed to have been unaware that he needed an environmental permit or waste exemption – which allows for low level waste activity without the need for a permit – until he was told this by the Environment Agency.

    He said he stopped importing and treating waste after the initial visit from officers, but didn’t have the money to remove the waste. He added that he owned property which he planned to sell to fund the site clearance.

    Follow up visits by officers during the summer of 2024 saw that while some waste had been cleared, most still remained. An enforcement notice was issued by the Environment Agency requiring the site to be cleared by 23 August 2024. This was also not complied with.

    Illegal waste activity can be reported to the Environment Agency on its 24-hour incident line on 0800 807060 or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

    Background

    Full charges

    1 – Between 21 June 2023 and 29 August 2024 at land of Oran Lane, Catterick in the county of North Yorkshire, you did operate a regulated facility, namely a waste operation for the recovery or disposal of waste, except under and to the extent authorised by an environmental permit.

    Contrary to Regulations 12 and 38(1)(a) Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.  

    2 – On 24 August 2024, you failed, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a notice dated 09 July 2024 and served on you on pursuant to section 59ZB(2) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 in that you failed to remove controlled waste from land at Oran Lane, Catterick.

    Contrary to section 59ZB(6) Environmental Protection Act 1990.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Teesside Airport boosted with £173m Government Defence Investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    A £173 million Ministry of Defence training contract with British business Draken will boost Teesside International Airport and support jobs across Teesside, Bournemouth and the Midlands – delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.

    A £173 million Ministry of Defence training contract with British business Draken will boost Teesside International Airport and support jobs across Teesside, Bournemouth and the Midlands – delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.

    In addition to strengthening our national security, the deal will maintain vital infrastructure in the North East and support more than 200 UK jobs. The new contract will deliver Armed Forces training for responding to a range of threats – including air-to-air combat, electronic warfare and missile attacks.

    Using a fleet of aircraft, Draken will simulate threats for UK personnel, including:

    • Air-to-air combat.
    • Missile attacks.
    • Attacks on ships from aircraft.

    Defence Minister Maria Eagle announced the deal today on a visit to Teesside International Airport. The Minister spoke with staff and apprentices, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to boosting national security and economic growth.

    The project will help deliver the government’s Plan for Change by strengthening national security and supporting the mission to kickstart economic growth. It also follows the launch of the Defence Industrial Strategy, which will ensure the defence sector is an engine for growth in every region and nation of the UK.

    Through live exercises with UK personnel over the North Sea, Draken private pilots will replicate the tactics and techniques of a range of adversaries.

    Using the latest electronic warfare technology, Draken will also train Royal Naval personnel to protect Carrier Strike Group assets from air and missile attacks and train Army personnel to quickly receive reconnaissance and intelligence information on enemy forces from the air.

    Altogether, this training will ensure that our Armed Forces receive demanding and realistic training, meeting NATO standards.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

    This investment will deliver world-class training for our Armed Forces and boost British business, jobs and national security.

    In line with our Plan for Change and upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy, this deal with Draken will support 200 UK jobs and ensure the future of Teesside International Airport.

    We are showing defence can be an engine for growth, in every region and nation.

    To deliver the training, Draken will use 14 Dassault Falcon 20, one Diamond DA42 and eight L-159E ‘Honey Badger’ fighter jets based at Teesside and Bournemouth. Draken will enrol a minimum of 12 apprentices at both sites.

    Air Officer Commanding 1 Group, Air Vice Marshal Mark Flewin said:

    Our partnership with Draken is of fundamental importance as we continue to train and prepare all of our front-line forces to meet emerging threats across the globe.

    The training delivered to date, simulating adversary threats while also allowing us to train in a representative and contested electro-magnetic environment, has never been more important to ensure the Royal Air Force is ready and able to support NATO and meet the threats of tomorrow.

    The contract will allow us to continue to evolve the high-end training available for all of our front-line forces, as we look to out-compete our potential adversaries.

    Nic Anderson, CEO at Draken, said:

    We are proud to continue serving the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy and the Army through the Interim Medium Speed Operational Readiness Training Services.

    Our purpose is to provide leading edge operational training to help the warfighter to be ready to fight and win. Through this ground-breaking contract we will continually innovate to improve their training experience. 

    Thank you to the whole Draken team who work relentlessly to support our customers, it is the high performance that the Draken team delivers every day that has enabled this contract win.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Additional £1 million of funding proposed to futureproof Oxford’s historic Covered Market

    Source: City of Oxford

    Wednesday, 29 January 2025

    Oxford City Council has proposed allocating over £1 million of additional funding to enhance the Covered Market redevelopment, which would bring the total investment to almost £8 million. 

    The allocation of additional funding, which will be decided at next week’s Cabinet meeting (5 February) and is conditional on approval of the Council Budget at the Full Council meeting on 13 February, would allow for additional upgrades to future-proof the historic market while minimising long-term disruption.  

    The redevelopment of the market, which celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2024, will ensure it remains a vibrant and sustainable hub for independent businesses, residents and visitors for generations to come.  

    The funding would enable additionalities, including: 

    • Upgrading services such as drainage, electrics, and utilities in a more sustainable way and to reduce future disruptions 
    • Further improvements to lighting, signage, and decoration, creating a more welcoming and accessible environment for visitors 
    • Removal of redundant services and fittings to help declutter the market and improve the appearance throughout  
    • Infrastructure updates to support greener technologies, including enhanced electrical capacity and provisions for low-carbon initiatives  

    By combining the additional works with the core masterplan improvements – which include a new public square and seating area, improved entrances on Market Street and High Street, service yard reorganisation and essential building maintenance – the project aims to deliver cost and time efficiencies while minimising future maintenance needs. 

    If approved by Cabinet, the project team is ready to progress to the next phase, with detailed designs and planning applications set to begin later this year. If the plans are then approved, work on-site could commence late 2026, with the market remaining operational throughout.  

    The Council recognises that there will be real concerns about disruption to trade during the work. This will be a major area of consideration for all involved in the development as the detailed design and construction plans are developed.  

    The Council is committed to producing an extensive programme of engagement with tenants and other stakeholders to ensure they have a say and are kept properly updated throughout.  

    Comment 

    “Throughout its long history, Oxford’s Covered Market has gone through transformations to ensure its continued relevance and character. This additional funding will enable another of those historic milestones, shaping the Market for future generations. 

    “By future-proofing infrastructure and embracing green technologies, we’re preserving its historic charm while creating a space that meets the needs of our community today and tomorrow.   

    “We understand there will be concerns about disruption, so we will work closely with tenants and stakeholders throughout the process to keep them informed and involved. We’ll listen to their needs, and make sure we do everything we can to meet them as the project is planned and then delivered. “ 

    Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and an Inclusive Economy   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Inspecting Homes After Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Inspecting Homes After Hurricane Helene

    FEMA Inspecting Homes After Hurricane Helene

    After Georgians apply for FEMA assistance following Hurricane Helene, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine if an applicant is eligible for various types of assistance. Due to the number of counties impacted by the hurricane and the number of homes needing inspections, it may take time for an inspection to be scheduled.Inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming. They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number. They carry photo identification and will show it to the applicant. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed or recorded. Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money. Their service is free.The inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home. They will leave messages and/or texts on the phone number listed on the FEMA application. These communications may come from unfamiliar phone numbers, and it is important that applicants respond so their application can be processed.Inspectors do not make decisions regarding eligibility for assistance. Information gathered during the inspection is part of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance.The inspector will consider:The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.A typical home inspection takes about 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.Georgians can apply at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. Survivors can also contact the Georgia Call Center Monday through Saturday at 678-547-2861 for assistance with their application. To apply in person, visit a Disaster Recovery Center. You may visit any open Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton on X @FEMA_Cam.###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.Learn more at fema.gov/disaster/4830 
    jakia.randolph
    Wed, 01/29/2025 – 13:45

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: WISeArt’s Exclusive Reveal of Yan Balestra’s Anvil Wonderland to be Held at WISeKEY’s Geneva Headquarters from January 30 to February 2

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    WISeArt’s Exclusive Reveal of Yan Balestra’s Anvil Wonderland to be Held at WISeKEY’s Geneva Headquarters from January 30 to February 2

    Geneva, Switzerland January 29, 2025: WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a global leader in cybersecurity, AI, Blockchain, and IoT operating as a holding company, today announced that its WISe.Art subsidiary is offering collectors and art enthusiasts an array of diverse projects during ArtGeneve, the iconic annual contemporary art fair to be held from January 30 to February 2, 2025. In this vibrant atmosphere, the various projects will give art aficionados a glimpse into Yan’s unique Neo-Pop vision, blending fine art, digital storytelling, and pop culture nostalgia, a true insight on augmented reality with artists selected by Espace L as well as a world première which will revolutionise the music industry using AI to the advantage of human musicians.

    Anvil Wonderland: As the whimsical and the bold ooze with creativity, Anvil Wonderland invites audiences into a dynamic and colourful world where classical animation meets contemporary art. Inspired by the iconic cartoon trope of falling anvils, the piece transforms this playful chaos into a modern-day tribute to resilience.

    The 60 x 80 cm acrylic on canvas piece features striking colours of pure blue, red, yellow, black, and white showcasing Yonel, the mischievous central figure of Yan’s artistic universe, captured mid-leap in a vibrant and daring composition. Accompanying the physical piece is an exclusive NFT animation: a 9-second loop that brings Yonel to life, diving into the unknown with his signature energy and spirit. The package will be released for sale to the public simultaneously live at the WISeKEY’s headquarters and online via the WISe.ART platform.

    This unique combination of physical and digital artistry provides collectors with a phygital experience that seamlessly bridges the worlds of traditional fine art and cutting-edge innovation.

    About Yan Balestra: Yan Balestra is a contemporary artist celebrated for his Neo-Pop aesthetic and ability to combine extreme sports culture, retro-futuristic elements, and bold storytelling. Through Yonel, his artistic alter-ego, Yan invites audiences to reconnect with their inner child and embrace the joy of exploration and imagination. His work serves as a bridge between playful nostalgia and the forward momentum of contemporary art.
    https://www.instagram.com/yanbalestra/?hl=en
    https://platform.wise.art/author/yan/

    About SpinDreams: Hydroelectric transmutations in the Swiss landscape by River Oracle, Lea Sblandano, Nacoca Ko, Paulo Wirz, Ricardo Meli, Paul Fritz, Antoine Félix Bürcher, Hugo Landlade and Jan Steenman. The project was initiated in 2022 to bridge the fluidity of analog and digital reality questioning dreamlike realities and newer technologies, nature’s resources feeding human energies. The art pieces act as semiotic talismans, focal points that draw awareness to the ceaseless metamorphic interplay between the tangible and the virtual.

    About Espace_L: Inaugurated in 2011, Espace_L is rapidly becoming the reference in Geneva for contemporary art. The gallery interacts in distinct sectors by presenting internationally recognized artists and by orchestrating art meetings, to raise awareness and question current art movements questioning technology and the philosophy of art.

    About “20 Song” by Soren Sorenson aka Dorian Gray: Dorian Gray’s approach is, above all, exploratory, a way to understand how AI can enrich the creative process and open new avenues of expression. “20-version song” is a manifesto for augmented musical creation, where artificial intelligence becomes an ally, not a substitute for humans. The project does not stop there: it invites the public to participate in the experience, navigate this sound labyrinth, discover the 20 interpretations, and choose their favorite by voting directly on the site, a democratic approach that gives a playful and participatory dimension to this unique musical exploration.

    About The Good Token Society: In the dynamic landscape of Web3, the need for support, federation, promotion and representation has never been more pressing. The Good Token Society is a hub for sustainable, global technology development, a base for initiatives focusing on the confluence of impact, technology, and finance. A collective of innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders passionate about the intersection of technologies and impact. We must shift from reactive to proactive and being prepared for the future. Despite facing challenges, blockchain players persist in enhancing capabilities. We are transitioning from theoretical experimentation to tangible business solutions.

    The Event: Yan Balestra’s opening exhibition will take place at WISeKEY headquarters, 58 Avenue Louis Casaï in Geneva, Switzerland on January 29, from 4 to 9 pm, by appointment offering an intimate opportunity for collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts to explore Yan Balestra’s latest creation. While the event is not officially affiliated with ArtGeneve, it takes advantage of the vibrant energy surrounding the city’s most prestigious art week, providing a compelling space for attendees to discover Yan’s unique artistic narrative.

    SpinDream will be on show at the Espace_L booth at ArtGeneve and 20 Song will go live on the air simultaneously.

    Sales Details: The NFTs attached to all these various projects will be available for purchase with Crypto Currencies or Credit Card payment on WISe.ART, WISeKEY’s innovative platform for fine art and digital NFTs. This unique phygital piece offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a one-of-a-kind work of art that bridges the worlds of nostalgia, creativity, and cutting-edge digital innovation.

    About WISe.ART: WISe.ART, powered by WISeKEY, combines blockchain technology with the fine art world to create a secure and innovative space for artists and collectors. It is a cutting-edge platform designed to bring physical and digital art into a new era of authenticity and accessibility.

    About WISeKEY:

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact:  Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com     		 WISeKey Investor Relations (US)
    Contact: The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com    		 WISe.ART
    Contact: Sixtine Crutchfield
    Art Director
    Tel: +41764406563
    scrutchfield@wisekey.com

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: VelocityEHS Launches the Industry’s First Fully Integrated EHS Platform to Revolutionize Workplace Safety and Risk Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Velocity’s new enhancements of the Accelerate Platform transform the way companies identify and mitigate the threats that put people and businesses in danger.

    CHICAGO, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VelocityEHS, the global leader in EHS & ESG software solutions, is thrilled to announce significant enhancements to its cutting-edge Accelerate Platform, bringing together four industry-leading solutions into one unified experience. Developed by the industry’s largest team of certified EHS professionals, the Platform combines decades of expertise and innovation to help companies proactively manage risk, protect lives, cut administrative tasks, drive collaboration and accountability, and deliver actionable insights for peak performance.

    The Accelerate launch is a landmark moment for both VelocityEHS and the industry. More importantly, it’s a game-changer for EHS professionals dedicated to protecting frontline workers and ensuring their safe return home each day, and for senior leaders focused on business continuity and effective risk management across all operations.

    “EHS software can be a matter of life and death. With Accelerate, Velocity provides capabilities that no other single provider can match,” says VelocityEHS CEO Matt Airhart. “Accelerate empowers our customers to streamline safety, chemical management, industrial ergonomics, and operational risk processes into one unified platform.”

    The Platform was built to address the VelocityEHS customers’ need for seamless integration and greater efficiency. It lets organizations protect their workforce, reduce risks, and achieve operational performance like never before.

    “These new enhancements elevate the user experience from great to exceptional. The ability to create reports and integrate data from multiple solutions is revolutionary, putting actionable insights at our customers’ fingertips so they can focus on protecting lives rather than administrative tasks,” concluded Airhart.

    Key Enhancements of the Accelerate Platform

    • Unified Platform: Access a collection of best-in-class EHS solutions with one secure login, featuring a centralized platform for seamless management of hierarchies, locations, and roles.
    • Customizable Dashboards: Tailor dashboards to the individual or organization’s needs, delivering critical, real-time data when and where it is needed.
    • Advanced Reporting: Generate actionable insights through Business Intelligence (BI)-based, pre-built and custom reports that integrate data from all solutions on the platform.
    • User-Friendly Design: Intuitive features accelerate adoption, reduce learning time, and simplify complex tasks for teams at all levels.
    • Scalability: Seamlessly expands initiatives across multiple locations and regions, ensuring consistent performance and compliance globally while maintaining optimal efficiency.

    These enhancements redefine what is possible in EHS management by delivering scalable and highly adaptable solutions and tools to meet the needs of organizations across all sizes and industries.

    “At VelocityEHS, our commitment to innovation in EHS is unwavering,” says Jason Weiss, Chief Technology Officer, VelocityEHS. “Through extensive focus groups with our customers, combined with the rigorous research of our certified experts and machine learning scientists, we ensure the solutions within Accelerate deliver insights you can trust.”

    First launched in 2022, the Accelerate Platform leverages advanced machine learning and AI to drive continuous improvement through prediction, intervention, and measurable outcomes. As one of the first complete EHS platforms on the market, it remains one of the industry’s most comprehensive.

    For more information about the VelocityEHS Accelerate Platform and to learn how it can drive your EHS and operational excellence, visit www.EHS.com.

    About VelocityEHS

    Relied on by more than 10 million users worldwide to drive operational excellence and achieve outstanding outcomes, VelocityEHS is the global leader in true SaaS enterprise EHS & ESG technology. The VelocityEHS Accelerate® Platform is the definitive gold standard, delivering best-in-class software solutions for managing Safety, Ergonomics, Chemical Management, and Operational Risk. In addition, Velocity offers world-class applications for Contractor Safety & Permit to Work, Environmental Compliance, and ESG.

    The VelocityEHS team includes unparalleled industry expertise, with more certified experts in health, safety, industrial hygiene, ergonomics, sustainability, the environment, AI, and machine learning than any other EHS software provider. Recognized by the EHS industry’s top independent analysts as a Leader in the Verdantix 2025 Green Quadrant Analysis, VelocityEHS is committed to industry thought leadership and to accelerating the pace of innovation through its software solutions and vision. Its privacy and security protocols, which include SOC2 Type II attestation, are among the most stringent in the industry.

    VelocityEHS is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with locations in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Tampa, Florida; Oakville, Ontario; London, England; Perth, Western Australia; and Cork, Ireland. For more information, visit www.EHS.com. 

    Media Contact
    Jennifer Sinkwitts
    734.277.9366
    jsinkwitts@ehs.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Huddersfield Golf Tech Firm Tees Up for International Success

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    MIA Sports wins Dubai contract with support from HSBC UK and UK Export Finance.

    An MIA Sports studio bay at the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai

    • A Huddersfield-based company which specialises in indoor golf technology has entered the UAE market after it secured a finance package worth £75,000.
    • Financing was provided by HSBC UK, with government backing from UK Export Finance.

    MIA Sports specialises in the design, supply and installation of golf simulators and teaching studios. Though founded only 10 years ago, their products have been adopted as an integral training tool at golf facilities in the UK, Europe, and East Asia.

    MIA Sports has now begun exporting to the United Arab Emirates with the support of UK Export Finance (UKEF), the government export credit agency.

    Faced with the opportunity of supplying its technology to Dubai, MIA Sports had to provide financial guarantees which would have restricted its cashflow – a catch-22 situation. They approached UKEF, who worked with HSBC UK to arrange a finance package for the amount of £75k. This was supported by a government guarantee provided through UKEF’s General Export Facility (GEF), a product specifically tailored to enable SMEs to scale up their exports by giving banks the confidence to lend.

    The finance package, provided by HSBC UK and guaranteed by UKEF, gave MIA Sports the confidence to secure the Dubai contract. This comprised the supply and installation of 5 teaching studio bays for a new academy at the Emirates Golf Club, home to the iconic Dubai Desert Classic tournament.

    Andrew Keast, Managing Director at MIA Sports, said:

    Breaking into the UAE market was a major opportunity for us. Thanks to UKEF and HSBC UK’s support, we were able to access the finance required to bring our technology to a fast-rising capital in the world of golf.

    Alissia Deane, Export Finance Manager for West Yorkshire, said:

    This deal demonstrates how we’re helping Yorkshire businesses reach their export potential. By working closely with HSBC UK, we’ve enabled MIA Sports to bring their innovative golf technology to Dubai’s growing sports market.

    Andy Booth, International Business Manager at HSBC UK, said:

    Working alongside UKEF, we’re committed to helping innovative British businesses like MIA Sports expand internationally. This showcases how effective partnership between banking and government support can boost UK exports.

    The story of MIA Sports shows how UKEF is working towards one of the key objectives in its Business Plan for 2024-2029: to support 1,000 SMEs a year by the end of the decade.

    Contact 

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    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Chad’s parliamentary election hands Mahamat Déby absolute control. Here’s why it’s dangerous

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Helga Dickow, Senior Researcher at the Arnold Bergstraesser Institut, Freiburg Germany, University of Freiburg

    Chad held parliamentary elections in late December 2024. The final results released on 21 January 2025 gave the well-established former ruling party, the Movement Patriotique du Salut (MPS), 124 seats out of 188.

    The election marked the end of a four-year transition in Chad following the death of former president Idriss Déby Itno in March 2021. Déby had ruled Chad since 1991. Mahamat Déby Itno assumed power on the death of his father.

    The result has meant that Mahamat Déby has given himself a degree of legitimacy as president through elections. He can comfortably remain in power for at least another five or even ten years.



    Read more:
    Chad’s election outcome already seems set: 4 things Mahamat Déby has done to stay in power

    I have been following Chad’s politics from inside and outside the country for more than 15 years. In my view, Mahamat Déby’s actions during the transition, with the help of the transitional authorities and his late father’s old teams, were aimed at keeping him in power. The December 2024 parliamentary elections were a formality. The poll was not won on polling day. It was clear from the run-up that, as was the case with the May 2024 presidential elections, every effort was being made to minimise the success of the opposition.

    Four factors stand out. They are the composition of the electoral authorities, lack of an up-to-date electoral register, violence against dissenting voices, and high costs of participation in the election.

    In my view Chadians’ trust in the democratic process has ceased completely. This bodes ill for a country that ranks as one of the poorest. It is also one of the most corrupt. The consolidation of Mahamat Déby’s power could widen the social divide and lead to violent conflict between different groups in Chad, which is highly stratified along ethnic and religious lines.

    Dissatisfaction with his decades of autocratic rule characterised Idriss Déby’s reign. Political-military movements challenged him regularly, and the last attack led to his death.

    This dissatisfaction will continue and could once again lead to violent conflicts.



    Read more:
    Chad: promises of a new chapter fade as junta strengthens its hold ahead of elections

    Corruption of the process

    Mahamat Déby and the Movement Patriotique du Salut took a number of steps to secure victory in the election.

    Firstly, the presidents of the electoral authority ANGE (Agence Nationale de Gestion des Élections) and of the constitutional court nominated by Mahamat Déby were responsible for organising and for validating elections (and will continue to be responsible until 2031). Having been loyal to Idriss Déby and now to his son, they cannot be trusted to be objective and independent in their pronouncements and final decisions.

    Secondly, the electoral register was last updated in August 2024. Therefore, young people who had just turned 18 could not vote. In Chad, the majority of the population is under 25. Young people in particular in the south support the opposition.

    Thirdly, the transitional regime’s violent crackdown on opposing voices played a role in the final outcome of the election.

    The transition was initially characterised by peace talks with the political-military movements and by expanding the security sector to secure its rule. In October 2022, several hundred mainly young people were killed by security forces while demonstrating against the extension of the transition and Mahamat Déby’s candidacy for presidency.

    In the intervening period the state took various steps against opposition figures.

    In February 2024 Yaya Dillo, a cousin of Mahamat Deby and a potential rival in the presidential elections, was shot dead by security forces.

    In May 2024, Mahamat Déby was elected president. In December 2024 he took on the title of marshal – previously held only by his father.

    The opposition was also hampered in participating in the poll for financial reasons. Taking part in the elections is expensive. Each candidate in the parliamentary election had to pay 500,000 CFA (US$785) to the treasury. Candidates for the provincial election paid 200,000 CFA (US$314). In poverty-stricken Chad, without regular funding for political parties, it was particularly difficult for smaller parties to meet these criteria.

    The situation was different for the ruling party, founded by Idriss Déby. For decades it has benefited from state resources. It is the only party with a nationwide presence. Other parties are mainly active in the regions of their founders.



    Read more:
    Chad’s Mahamat Deby doubles down on authoritarian rule in wake of election victory

    Resistance

    Opposition parties called for a boycott. The Groupe de Concertation des Acteurs Politiques, a coalition of nine parties, criticised the new electoral law and the lack of transparency of the count at the polling stations.

    Succès Masra, leader of Les Transformateurs, a former prime minister who came second in the 2024 presidential elections, also called for a boycott. He accused the government of falsifying the results of the parliamentary election beforehand and of having the final lists saved in a computer. His party did not participate in the poll.

    The results of the parliamentary elections presented on 11 January 2025 by Ahmed Barticheret, president of the electoral commission, and confirmed by the constitutional court on 21 January, therefore revealed no surprises.

    Alongside the huge victory of the Movement Patriotique du Salut, two other parties not really in opposition won 12 and 7 seats respectively. The other successful parties won just one seat each. Chad has over 300 political parties, of which 38 are represented in the new parliament.



    Read more:
    Chad presidential election: assassination of main opposition figure casts doubt on country’s return to democracy

    Consequences

    Movement Patriotique du Salut has an overwhelming majority in parliament. This means that there are no checks and balances. Like his father, Mahamat Déby can continue to rule without any parliamentary control.

    He is already used to that. Since 2021, he has appointed members of the transitional parliament by presidential decree. The few voices of individual members of parliament belonging to the “real” opposition have no influence.

    As the low turnout – put at 40% on election day – shows, the majority of voters did not expect the election result to change the political situation. On the other hand, supporters of the ruling party continue to benefit from proximity to power and state resources.

    As dissatisfaction continues, the possibility of renewed attacks by dissidents cannot be ruled out. If it is not a military attack, frustrated individuals might try to target the presidency or other symbols of the regime.

    In early January 2025 a group of unidentified young people reportedly attacked the presidency. The incident was played down by the government spokesman, leaving plenty of room for speculation.

    But it was a reminder that a peaceful future is not assured.

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

    – ref. Chad’s parliamentary election hands Mahamat Déby absolute control. Here’s why it’s dangerous – https://theconversation.com/chads-parliamentary-election-hands-mahamat-deby-absolute-control-heres-why-its-dangerous-248342

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –