NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Security: The IAEA’s Vital Support of Development and International Security

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    (As prepared for delivery)

    President, Secretary-General, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    “The best way to predict the future is to build it.” It is a truth worth remembering, especially when political division, climate change, war, hunger, and disease seem to overshadow our effort.

    We have the tools to deal with these challenges. We have the knowledge, the technology, the financial means, the diplomacy and the robust international institutions.

    The IAEA serves its 180 Member States with the lifesaving and lifeaffirming tools of nuclear science and technology. These contribute directly to the SDGs.

    Health comes first. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 we jumped into action, harnessing our equipment and knowledge for quick and reliable testing against COVID with the portable RT-PCR machines, or “labs in a suitcase”.

    We launched what would become the largest emergency operation in the history of IAEA to nearly 130 States. In so doing, we reached tens of millions of people. For some countries these kits were the first, and sometimes the only equipment they had to conduct reliable testing against COVID-19.

    Drawing on this and earlier experiencessupporting the fight against Ebola, avian influenza and Zika, we launched – in that same year – the Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action (ZODIAC). Under ZODIAC we have trained people from more than 95 countries in dealing with zoonotic diseases. Laboratories in developing countries have received equipment for 3 serology and molecular diagnostic or genetic sequencing. Many of these labs are now being used to combat Mpox.

    The IAEA has more than 6 decades of experience in radiotherapy and medical imaging. But today the cancer crisis is hitting low and middleincome countries particularly hard and I am determined to make a greater impact in partnership with our Member States. That is why we launched Rays of Hope: Cancer Care for All at the African Union Summit in February 2022, with firm support from the World Health Organization (WHO). Africa is where the cancer care gap is the starkest: more than 20 African nations lack even a single radiotherapy machine. So far, 86 countries have reached out to the IAEA for support under Rays of Hope and concrete actions have been initiated in more than 30 States.

    Under our new initiative, NUTEC: NUclear TEchnology for Controlling Plastic Pollution, 86 States around the world are participating in marine microplastic monitoring using nuclear and isotopic tracing techniques. This will help them to put in place better-informed policies that combat the plastic pollution threatening the ocean, its plants and creatures and therefore also the communities that rely on them for their livelihoods. Some 39 States are participating in plastic recycling using radiation technology, four of which are progressing towards establishing pilot-scale plants. This will allow them to reduce plastic waste and advance towards a circular economy. The Global Marine Monitoring Network continues to grow with 99 States now benefiting from capacity building efforts.

    Atoms4Food was launched by the IAEA and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in October 2023. It offers tailor-made approaches in 4 Food and Agriculture, which for years has been the number 1 area of support sought by our Member States. Atoms4Foods supports countries in using innovative nuclear techniques to enhance agricultural productivity, reduce food losses, ensure food safety, improve nutrition, and adapt to the challenges of climate change. This supports farmers as well as the fight against deadly malnutrition.

    There is no development without energy. Nuclear power provides about a quarter of the world’s low-carbon electricity. Much more is needed if we are to meet the climate goals set out on the Paris Agreement. In their historic first Global Stocktake, approved at COP28 in Dubai last year, the signatory countries to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change called for accelerating the deployment of low-emission energy technologies including nuclear power. The Pact for the Future adopted yesterday, in Action 26 reaffirmed the inalienable right of all countries to develop research, production and use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes without discrimination, in conformity with their respective obligations.

    Today, in addition to the 415 nuclear power reactors operating in 31 countries there are 62 reactors under construction in 15 countries, most of them in Asia. The IAEA is assisting States, many of them developing countries, either with enlarging their civilian nuclear programs, or with safely embarking on them. We are working with industry and regulators on small modular reactors (SMRs) which will make more affordable the price of entry to the nuclear energy club.

    The IAEA is also playing an important role in maintenance of 5 international peace and security.

    Mandated by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), we conduct nuclear safeguards, making sure the increased amount of nuclear material around the world does not result in the secret proliferation of nuclear weapons. There is material for thousands of nuclear warheads in the world. Thanks to the robust international safeguards regime and our inspection system, who never stopped even during the COVID pandemic, the number of nuclear weapon States around the world is far fewer than had been feared before the IAEA was established and the NPT came into force.

    The IAEA assists States in the creation and implementation of nuclearweapon-free zones, which already cover vast regions of the world. These are important steps towards a world without nuclear weapons.

    Our work in Iran, Syria, other countries of the Middle East, and on different continents, contributes to international stability through nonproliferation and through the peaceful uses of nuclear technology.

    Since February 2022 a large-scale conventional conflict has raged in a country with a large civilian nuclear program. Ukraine used to generate more than half its electricity from nuclear power plants. From the first months of the war, the IAEA has focused on assisting Ukraine in preventing a radiological or nuclear accident, which could have a serious transborder impact. Today, the IAEA has advisory and assistance missions stationed at all five of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, including Zaporizhzhia, which is located right at the front line. Following months 6 of negotiations and consultations, on 30 May 2023 at the UN Security Council I outlined five concrete principles to help ensure nuclear safety and security at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya NPP. It received strong support from the Members of the Council.

    The IAEA continues to monitor the safe discharge of water from the Fukushima Daichi Nuclear Power Station and engages in consultations with neighbouring and coastal countries with strong interest in the process. Our independent analysis and the data we publish relating to the discharge offer facts that dispel misunderstandings and fears about the process.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    I firmly believe in supporting the ability of everyone, regardless of gender, to fully benefit and contribute to the IAEA’s work.

    Conviction requires action. When I began my tenure as the IAEA’s Director General five years ago, one of my very first actions was to set a goal for gender parity by 2025 and to put in place the policies to achieve a more diverse workforce.

    Five years ago, women represented less than 30% of the Agency. Today, they have surpassed 48%.

    Mindful of the need to continue helping future generations, I also launched the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme (MSCFP) in 2020. It drives diversity as well as scientific and technological innovation by encouraging women to pursue a career in the nuclear field. Since its launch, hundreds of women from over 120 countries have been awarded fellowships with generous stipends. They have studied in more than 70 7 countries and have also benefited from internships in many areas of the field. Our follow-up program, named after the scientist Lise Meitner, empowers early- and mid-career through career-enhancing opportunities like site visits.

    The IAEA is a key multilateral player to make the Pact of the Future a reality. Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Profile: Fuelling Success – Gloria Kwong’s Path to Decommissioning and Environmental Remediation

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Gloria Kwong during a panel at the ATOMEXPO International Forum held from 19-21 June 2017 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo: Rosatom)

    The IAEA profiles employees to provide insight into the variety of career paths that support the Agency’s mission of Atoms for Peace and Development and to inspire and encourage readers, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) or STEM-adjacent fields. Read more profiles of women at the IAEA.   

    Growing up in a conservative, Chinese household in Canada, Gloria Kwong was raised to avoid taking risks and to prioritize her education to help ensure her success.  

    Throughout her professional journey, which has led her from Canada to Austria via France, Kwong has always remained committed to her work in the areas of nuclear waste, decommissioning and environmental remediation. During her career, she has navigated challenges in a male-dominated industry and advises young women to follow their passions and embrace new opportunities, even when they come with challenges or risks. 

    As a young girl, Kwong aspired to become a professional chef, but her parents encouraged her and her four siblings to focus on their academic studies. After high school, Kwong earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in chemical engineering at the University of Toronto, Canada, and within a few years, she advanced to a managerial role at a leading telecommunications company. However, she realized that her passion was in more technically demanding work, eventually leading her to her current role as Head of the Decommissioning and Environmental Remediation Section at the IAEA.   

    “It may surprise people that my experience working in a managerial position for a telecommunications company impacts my work at the IAEA. Although technical competency is essential, good decision-making, communication, and interpersonal skills are no less important, and this is something that comes in hand every day when I work with my team and colleagues at the Agency. An unconventional professional background does not limit you, but instead provides you with more tools to succeed,” said Kwong. 

    Seeking to broaden her horizons, Kwong transitioned to the nuclear field as a design engineer at the Ontario Power Generation Darlington Power Station (OPG) in Toronto. While working as a Senior Engineer at OPG, Kwong pursued her PhD in materials engineering from Imperial College London. It would be years later before Kwong took another career leap – this time across the Atlantic. After over a decade at OPG, which later became the Nuclear Waste Management Organization, she was offered the position of Radioactive Waste Management Specialist at the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) in Paris, France. 

    Kwong’s career at the NEA was marked by her willingness to take on new challenges and leadership roles. For over 11 years, she held various managerial positions, including Acting Head of the Radioactive Waste Management Division and the Nuclear Technology Development & Economics Division. Her leadership skills and technical insight were recognized, leading to other roles as Deputy Head of the Office of Policy and Coordination, Head of the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation, and eventually, Senior Advisor to the Director-General. 

    Like other women working in a male-dominated industry, Kwong made a concerted effort to establish her credibility and earn the respect of her peers. Her career has been filled with professional milestones and unique international experiences, but it has not been without challenges. 

    “A big hurdle for women has always been work-life balance and prioritizing career development , but I see more employers, like the IAEA, addressing these matters through educational scholarships that relieve financial burdens, flexible professional development programmes and new, accommodating HR policies, thereby attracting more women to the nuclear sector,” said Kwong. 

    After over a decade at the NEA, Kwong left Paris and moved to Vienna to join the IAEA as the Head of the Decommissioning and Environmental Remediation Section. She and her colleagues strive to promote nuclear decommissioning and environmental remediation by supporting sustainable nuclear energy development. They encourage countries to integrate circular economy principles into national decommissioning and radioactive waste management policies, and they facilitate knowledge sharing to promote the efficient use of resources and the safe reuse of materials. 

    “I want to contribute to narrowing the energy equity gap to ensure more people can access affordable, sustainable and clean energy. I believe that nuclear power can elevate its contribution to complement other clean energy sources, which is why I believe in the mission and work of the IAEA,” Kwong said.  

    Her piece of advice to young women considering a career in the nuclear field: 

    “Follow your heart in decision making. Explore other opportunities, and don’t be afraid to take some risks.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extra support for women through the criminal justice system announced

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Government plans to reduce the number of women in custody by using early intervention and tackling the root causes of offending, the Lord Chancellor announced today.

    A Women’s Justice Board will be established to bring together senior leaders in the criminal justice system, charities and government departments and publish a new strategy in the spring, Shabana Mahmood has confirmed.

    Female offenders are often vulnerable, with over 60 per cent of women in prison reporting having experienced domestic violence and more than half having experienced abuse as a child.

    The creation of the Women’s Justice Board recognises these distinct needs and advocates for a tailored approach to divert women away from custodial sentences. It will meet regularly to discuss and implement ways to intervene earlier before women’s offending becomes serious and better tackle the root causes of their offending.

    The strategy will also focus on enhancing alternatives to prison, such as community sentences and residential women’s centres. Only around one third of female offenders sentenced to custody have committed a violent offence and prisons are not working to rehabilitate this group, with women serving short custodial sentences significantly more likely to reoffend than those serving community sentences.  

    The Board will be chaired by Lord Timpson, Minister of State for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending.

    It will be held to account by experts from the voluntary and community sector, recruited by open competition to the new Women in Justice Partnership Delivery Group. This Group will regularly review and publish reports on the on the Board’s progress towards its goal of reducing the number of women in custody.

    The Lord Chancellor also announced that free independent legal advocates will be in place from next year to support adult victims of rape across England and Wales.

    Almost two-thirds of rape victims drop out of their case before it reaches trial so this service will help victims understand their rights and ensure access to mobile phones and medical data is proportionate to the investigation. When trialled in Northumberland, two-thirds of challenges to a request for victims’ data were successful and, in turn, reduced the volume of indiscriminate police requests in the first place.

    More information on the scheme will be published in the coming months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement: Meeting between the Foreign Ministers of the United Kingdom and Argentina

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The Foreign Secretary and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of Argentina made progress on different issues regarding the South Atlantic.

    Looking forward to a new era of constructive cooperation within the bilateral relationship, characterised by improved dialogue and confidence-building measures, the UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of Argentina, Diana Mondino, met in New York on 24 September and made progress towards a broad agenda covering different issues relating to the South Atlantic. It is agreed that the formula on the safeguards of sovereignty in paragraph 2 of the Joint Statement of 19 October 1989 applies to this agenda and its outcomes.

    The Parties have agreed to resume negotiations to complete the third phase of the Humanitarian Project Plan together with the International Committee of the Red Cross, and to organise a trip to the Islands by next-of-kin of fallen soldiers before the end of 2024, so that they can visit the graves of the soldiers laid there to rest.

    They also agreed on the need to take concrete steps in the area of fisheries conservation and towards improved connectivity, according to the agreements reached in 2018, including the resumption of the weekly Sao Paulo flight to the Islands that stopped once a month in Cordoba.

    These steps will enable progress towards a more ambitious agenda for co-operation in different areas, under the sovereignty formula, aimed at promoting human and economic development and strengthening links between the Islands and the continent.

    Both the Foreign Secretary and Foreign Minister Mondino welcomed the steps being taken to establish an improved bilateral relationship and agreed to speak again when opportunity allowed.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government should move urgently to repeal misguided legislation and instead press for mutual enforcement

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    The following article was published in today’s News Letter.

    In my last article in this series on the first majoritarian vote on a matter of great controversy to take place at Stormont in over 50 years that is now required (unless the law is changed) before the end of this year, I highlighted further problems with the assertion that the vote gives expression to democracy.

    I explained why, rather than doing so, the effect of the proposed vote is to ask MLAs to effectively renounce the rights of their constituents to be represented in the legislature making the laws to which we are subject in 300 areas of law (Removing Stormont’s cross-community vote for the Northern Ireland Protocol violates the Belfast Agreement, September 17).

    There is something disturbing, unnerving and alarming about the sight of those in authority seeking to legitimise the renunciation of democracy by hiding its true implication in a process presented as a manifestation of democracy and called euphemistically the ‘democratic consent vote.’

    Engaging in these antics cannot but risk placing the wider ‘integrity’ (in every sense of the word) of UK democracy in jeopardy. This is a dangerous game.

    In order to really appreciate the full extent of the difficulty, though, we need to consider the proposed vote in context.

    The first essay in this series looked at how the forced majority Stormont vote ahead places the future governance of Northern Ireland in jeopardy.

    We live at a time of growing concerns about voter apathy across the UK, underlined by the second lowest UK turnout figures and the lowest ever Northern Ireland turnout figures at the General Election in July. This is really concerning. Democracy only works if people vote.

    If there is a shift away from voting, the validity of both democracy and the government it sustains are called into question and people begin to consider the less enlightened alternatives. The difficulty is compounded at the current time on two bases.

    First, the sad truth is that it makes complete sense that voter turnout should have been the lowest ever in Northern Ireland on July 4 because this was the first General Election after the debasing of the vote in Northern Ireland from January 1, 2021 with the introduction of the protocol/Windsor Framework.

    At the 2019 General Election the people of Northern Ireland went to the polls on the same basis as people across the rest of the UK, able to vote for MPs, who together with their other legislators, were able to make all the laws to which the people of Northern Ireland were subject, as in the rest of the UK. On July 4, 2024, however, while the people of England, Wales and Scotland went to the polls on this basis, we in Northern Ireland were only afforded the right to elect people to make some of the laws to which we are subject.

    In 300 areas our laws are now made for us by a foreign Parliament in whose elections we cannot stand and to which we can elect no representatives.

    The new arrangement has two troubling consequences. In the first instance, it tells the people of Northern Ireland that we no longer have the right to ‘pursue democratically national and political aspirations’ (see the Good Friday Agreement) with respect to all the laws to which we are subject which inevitably makes some people look to other means of securing change.
    In the second instance, this inevitably sends the message to the rest of the UK that democracy is not all that important. You cannot tell some UK citizens that it is OK to not have the right to stand for election to make all the laws to which they are subject and simultaneously tell other UK citizens that having this right is vital.

    Moreover, we greatly compound the problem by using a process masquerading as democracy to secure its negation, suggesting that it is OK for representatives within part of the UK to go into their legislature (Stormont) in December and vote to renounce the rights of their citizens to be represented in the making of the laws to which they are subject not just in relation to one law or 300 laws but three hundred areas of law for six to eight years.

    Second, the above takes effect at the worst possible time for the UK because the integrity of UK democracy is now under greater pressure than at any time since the introduction of universal suffrage.

    The July UK General Election results mean that we now have a UK government with the smallest ever proportion of the vote for modern times, just 33.8%, meaning that of the 59.9% of people who voted, over 65% did not vote for the government.

    In the second instance – placing this precarious arrangement under the greatest possible strain – we have a government with the largest majority of seats since 1832, suggesting it has the greatest mandate of modern times, when what we actually have is a government whose mandate is uniquely constrained.

    It is not the purpose of this article to suggest that this outcome is the result of any abuse of the system. It isn’t. But it is to acknowledge that in the past, the ‘first past the post’ election system has never placed itself under as much pressure as it has through the July 4, 2024 General Election results.

    It will not be easy for the UK body politic to navigate the twin challenge to the integrity of democracy resulting from the creation of a government with a huge majority that nearly 70% of those who voted (let alone those that didn’t vote) did not support, at the same time as it is asking a UK legislature (Stormont) to engage in the obscene charade of using democracy to negate democracy.

    Rather than seeing democratic strength in the size of its majority, the new government should see in the yawning mismatch between its limited share of the vote and huge Commons majority an unusually strained and in some ways vulnerable expression of democracy.

    In this context it should go out of its way to pursue a path of moderation, especially where democracy is concerned.

    To this end, it should move urgently to repeal the misguided legislation of the previous government that is currently poised to deploy democracy before the year is out, both for the purpose of its negation and for recklessly forcing the first majoritarian Stormont vote on a matter of deepest controversy in over 50 years. It should instead press for mutual enforcement which disenfranchises no one.
    ​
    This is the fourth of five essays by Dr Dan Boucher, who is a former Director of Policy and Research for the DUP, and now aide to the leader of the TUV Jim Allister MP

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate and House Democratic Members to Attend Workers’ Rights Press Conference

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (September 24, 2024) — On Wednesday, September 25, at 1:00 p.m., members of the Senate and House Democratic Caucuses will attend the Workers’ Rights Press Conference at the Amazon ATL6 Warehouse.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Wednesday, September 25, 2024
    • Time: 1:00 p.m.
    • Location: Amazon ATL6 Warehouse, 4200 N Commerce Drive, East Point, GA 30344
    • This event is open to the public.

    ABOUT THE MEETING:         

    Sen. Nan Orrock (D–Atlanta) and Rep. Kim Schofield (D–Atlanta) will be speaking at the event and addressing the concerns raised regarding Amazon’s treatment of employees. The Amazon ATL6 facility has faced allegations of Unfair Labor Practices, such as harassment, threats and intimidation of workers, which some believe may be aimed at discouraging organizing efforts. This summer, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) filed complaints against Amazon, alleging instances of worker interrogation, surveillance, and retaliation related to their collective activities. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has conducted multiple inspections of the ATL6 facility due to health and safety concerns.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    # # # #

    Sen. Nan Orrock serves as the Democratic Caucus Secretary. She represents the 36th Senate District which includes portions of Fulton County. She may be reached at 404.463.8054 or by email at nan.orrock@senate.ga.gov.

    Sen. Sonya Halpern serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus. She represents the 39th Senate District which includes neighborhoods across the five cities of Atlanta, College Park, City of South Fulton, East Point and Union City, all in Fulton County. She can be reached at 404.656.9644 or at sonya.halpern@senate.ga.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Welcome to La Maison Elysée!

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    It’s already been two months since La Maison Élysée opened its doors to the public!

    Located opposite the Élysée Palace, at 88 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, this new space is one of a kind.

    Visitors will be able to go behind the scenes of the Presidency of the Republic through a free permanent exhibition and complete the experience by discovering the café and the boutique.

    Discover the Maison Élysée in pictures:

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Minutes of the Council of Ministers of September 23, 2024.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    The Council of Ministers adopted the following individual measures:

    On the proposal of the Prime Minister:

    – the functions of Director of International, Strategic and Technological Affairs at the General Secretariat for Defense and National Security exercised by Ms. Caroline FERRARI, State Administrator, are terminated as of September 16, 2024.

    On the proposal of the Minister of the Interior:

    – the functions of Prefect of Eure exercised by Mr. Simon BABRE, State Administrator, are terminated as of September 16, 2024;

    – the functions of delegated prefect for equal opportunities with the prefect of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, prefect of the South defense and security zone, prefect of Bouches-du-Rhône, exercised by Mr. Baptiste ROLLAND, State administrator, are terminated as of September 9, 2024.

    On the proposal of the Minister of National Education and the Minister of Higher Education and Research:

    – the functions of rector of the Grand Est academic region, rector of the Nancy-Metz academy, exercised by Mr. Richard LAGANIER, chancellor of universities, are terminated as of September 16, 2024.

    On the proposal of the Minister of Labor and Employment:

    – the functions of general delegate for employment and vocational training exercised by Mr. Jérôme MARCHAND-ARVIER, State Councilor, are terminated as of September 17, 2024.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lochaber Area Place Plan public sessions begin

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council is set to hold public drop-in sessions over four days at the end of the September and into early October 2024, to help inform the creation of an Area Place Plan for the Lochaber area.  These sessions will allow the public to contribute, have their say and leave comments.

    Members of the public are invited to attend the engagement drop in events which will take place as follows:

    Monday 30 Sept – Fort William Library 4-7pm

    Tuesday 1 October – Fort William Library 11am-4pm

    Thursday 3 October – Mallaig Library 5-8pm

    Tuesday 8 October – Ardnamurchan Library 12-4pm

    In attendance on the day will be members of the Community Support and Engagement Team who will be on hand to greet people as they arrive and ensure their opinions are captured and reflected within the data gathered.

    An online survey and ideas board will go live on Monday 30 September and will remain live until 31 October 2024. The survey will be available from the following link here (external link)

    Lochaber Area Committee Chair, Cllr Kate Willis said: “Area Place Plans (APP) are important for Lochaber as they are community led plans, offering the opportunity to shape the vision, ambition and key priorities for both people and place across Lochaber. They help to target resources, service delivery and with clear area specific plans, assist in attracting investment.

    “I encourage as many local residents as possible across Lochaber to take the opportunity to drop in on one of these sessions, have a chat with the team facilitating the event, learn more about the process and leave comments for consideration in the wider APP.”  

    In Highland, sub-regional Area Place Plans are being developed to bring together an overview of existing strategies and projects, and making sure that a clear vision is captured of what the community aspirations are for their area.

    The Plans will help The Highland Council, partners, and communities to secure funding by evidencing the impact of every pound spent and the actions associated will provide clarity and manage expectation around how and where resources are prioritised. They will also provide a stronger framework for communities to prepare plans for their own community, empowering them to drive and deliver change.

    Community engagement will build a shared understanding of how ‘Place’ underpins development, service delivery and how organisations and communities work together. These plans will be a future guide to get the best impact for people living in an area, based on a shared understanding of local need.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Interim Community Council Election – Voters encouraged to return ballots

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued on behlaf of The Returning Officer

    Postal ballot papers for the contested Ardgay and District Community Council were posted out yesterday (Monday 23 September 2024). The Highland Council is reminding voters that ballot papers need to be completed and returned by the deadline of 12 noon on Monday 14 October 2024 in the pre-paid envelope provided.

    Candidates standing were invited to submit a statement to support their candidacy and these statements are provided in the envelopes mailed out along with the ballot papers to all eligible voters.

    Community Councillors shall be elected on a simple majority basis.  The successful candidates will be those with the highest number of votes, with the number of successful Candidates equalling the number of vacancies. 

    The counting of the votes will be broadcast live by The Highland Council on Monday 14 October 2024 from 12noon onwards.  

    24 Sep 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks at the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Moment Event [bilingual, as delivered; scroll down for all-English and all-French]

    Source: United Nations – English

    xcellencies, dear friends,  

    The Sustainable Development Goals represent a bold vision: a commitment to a better, healthier, safer and more prosperous and sustainable future.   

    But the Goals are facing massive headwinds.

    More than 4 out of 5 SDG targets are off track.

    On top of the impacts from a global pandemic, many countries are being crushed by massive debt burdens, limited liquidity and sky-high borrowing costs.

    Conflicts, hunger, inequalities and the climate crisis are all intensifying.

    And the global financial architecture is not providing developing countries with sufficient financing and liquidity or to act as an effective safety net for all.

    The world has the wealth, the technology, and the know-how to achieve the SDGs.

    Last September’s SDG Summit included consensus around an SDG Stimulus of at least $500 billion per year in financing for developing countries — and the need for global financial architecture reform.

    It highlighted key transitions to generate maximum progress — ending hunger, expanding renewable energy, digitalization, education, social protection and decent work, and ending the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss.

    It also underscored the vital importance of ensuring that women, girls and young people are at the decision-making table.   

    Today, you will hear from leaders about their countries’ progress across all these areas — leaders determined to make changes, even in the face of great odds.

    And we will celebrate some milestones at the global level.

    From reducing child mortality rates…to preventing new HIV infections…to increasing access to renewable energy and broadband …to greater gender parity across education systems.

    As we reflect on next steps, I urge focus on the three development drivers that can accelerate progress.

    The first is finance. 

    Crushing debt and inefficient tax systems are starving investments in health, education and food in many developing countries.

    The Pact for the Future includes support for the SDG Stimulus and global financial architecture reform to help ease the debt crisis of so many developing countries.

    This includes multiplying the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks to provide more resources for climate action and sustainable development, and changing their business model to leverage massive amounts of private finance.  

    As we look towards next year’s Summits on Social Development and Financing, I urge all countries to double down on these reform efforts.

    The second development driver is climate action.

    I urge countries to put forward ambitious national climate action plans that align with the 1.5 degree limit, and cover the whole economy and all sectors.

    This requires aligning national energy strategies with a 1.5-degree world, ending fossil fuel subsidies and putting a price on carbon.

    It is time for a rapid and just phase-out of fossil fuels, and a rapid and smart scale-up of renewables to drive sustainable development, energy security and economic prosperity.

    We must fairly and sustainably meet the global demand for critical minerals that can power the renewables revolution. And the Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals has provided recommendations to do this.

    Protecting development gains from climate upheaval is also critical.

    We need new and generous contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.

    We need developed countries honouring their commitment to double adaptation funding by 2025.

    And we need governments to agree on a significant new climate finance goal at COP29, including new and innovative sources of finance.

    Le troisième facteur de développement, c’est la paix.

    Tous nos plans de développement sont rapidement anéantis par des conflits sans fin causant la mort, la destruction, la faim, les déplacements de populations et les violences basées sur le genre.

    Et les ressources dont nous avons tant besoin pour nourrir et éduquer nos enfants et construire une planète durable pour notre jeunesse sont gaspillées en dépenses militaires.

    Nous avons besoin de paix – à Gaza, en Ukraine, au Soudan, et partout ailleurs.

    J’appelle les dirigeants du monde entier à surmonter les divisions, à mettre fin aux conflits, et à investir dans l’avenir de leurs populations et dans la paix.

    Chers amis,

    Dans un monde de richesses exceptionnelles, de connaissances et de technologies sans précédent, nous n’avons aucune excuse.

    Il est temps de tenir les promesses du Programme 2030 – de mettre fin à la pauvreté, de protéger la planète, et de ne laisser personne de côté.  

    Gardons les Objectifs de développement durable en vie.

    Je vous remercie.

    ***
    [all-English]

    Excellencies, dear friends,

    The Sustainable Development Goals represent a bold vision: a commitment to a better, healthier, safer and more prosperous and sustainable future.   

    But the Goals are facing massive headwinds.

    More than 4 out of 5 SDG targets are off track.

    On top of the impacts from a global pandemic, many countries are being crushed by massive debt burdens, limited liquidity and sky-high borrowing costs.

    Conflicts, hunger, inequalities and the climate crisis are all intensifying.

    And the global financial architecture is not providing developing countries with sufficient financing and liquidity or to act as an effective safety net for all.

    The world has the wealth, the technology, and the know-how to achieve the SDGs.

    Last September’s SDG Summit included consensus around an SDG Stimulus of at least $500 billion per year in financing for developing countries — and the need for global financial architecture reform.

    It highlighted key transitions to generate maximum progress — ending hunger, expanding renewable energy, digitalization, education, social protection and decent work, and ending the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss.

    It also underscored the vital importance of ensuring that women, girls and young people are at the decision-making table.   

    Today, you will hear from leaders about their countries’ progress across all these areas — leaders determined to make changes, even in the face of great odds.

    And we will celebrate some milestones at the global level.

    From reducing child mortality rates…to preventing new HIV infections…to increasing access to renewable energy and broadband …to greater gender parity across education systems.

    As we reflect on next steps, I urge focus on the three development drivers that can accelerate progress.

    The first is finance. 

    Crushing debt and inefficient tax systems are starving investments in health, education and food in many developing countries.
       
    The Pact for the Future includes support for the SDG Stimulus and global financial architecture reform to help ease the debt crisis of so many developing countries.

    This includes multiplying the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks to provide more resources for climate action and sustainable development, and changing their business model to leverage massive amounts of private finance.  

    As we look towards next year’s Summits on Social Development and Financing, I urge all countries to double down on these reform efforts.

    The second development driver is climate action.

    I urge countries to put forward ambitious national climate action plans that align with the 1.5 degree limit, and cover the whole economy and all sectors.

    This requires aligning national energy strategies with a 1.5-degree world, ending fossil fuel subsidies and putting a price on carbon.

    It is time for a rapid and just phase-out of fossil fuels, and a rapid and smart scale-up of renewables to drive sustainable development, energy security and economic prosperity.

    We must fairly and sustainably meet the global demand for critical minerals that can power the renewables revolution. And the Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals has provided recommendations to do this.

    Protecting development gains from climate upheaval is also critical.

    We need new and generous contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.

    We need developed countries honouring their commitment to double adaptation funding by 2025.

    And we need governments to agree on a significant new climate finance goal at COP29, including new and innovative sources of finance.

    And the third development driver is peace.

    All our development plans are quickly erased by relentless conflicts that cause death, destruction, hunger, displacement and gender-based violence.

    And the resources we desperately need to feed and educate our children and build a sustainable planet for our young people are wasted on military expenditures.

    We need peace — from Gaza to Ukraine to Sudan and beyond.

    I call on global leaders to heal divisions, end conflicts, and invest in people and peace.

    Dear friends,

    In our world of unprecedented wealth, knowledge and technologies, there is no excuse.

    It’s time to keep the promises of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to end poverty, protect the planet, and leave no one behind.  

    Let’s keep the SDG commitment alive.

    Thank you.

    ***
    [all-French]

    Excellences, Chers amis,

    Les objectifs de développement durable incarnent une vision audacieuse. Ils constituent un engagement en faveur d’un avenir meilleur, plus sain, plus sûr, plus prospère et plus durable.

    Mais les vents contraires sont nombreux.

    Nous sommes mal partis pour atteindre plus de quatre sur cinq de toutes les cibles associées aux objectifs de développement durable.

    Outre les conséquences d’une pandémie mondiale auxquelles ils doivent faire face, de nombreux pays sont écrasés par un endettement massif, des liquidités limitées et des coûts d’emprunt très élevés.

    Les conflits, la faim, les inégalités et la crise climatique s’intensifient.

    En outre, l’architecture financière mondiale ne permet pas aux pays en développement de pouvoir compter sur suffisamment de financements et de liquidités et ne leur offre pas un filet de sécurité efficace pour tous.

    Le monde a pourtant les richesses, les technologies et le savoir-faire qu’il faut pour atteindre les objectifs de développement durable.

    Au mois de septembre dernier, le Sommet sur les objectifs de développement durable a permis de dégager un consensus autour d’un plan de relance des objectifs de développement durable, prévoyant des financements d’au moins 500 milliards de dollars par an pour les pays en développement – et de s’accorder sur le fait qu’il est nécessaire de réformer l’architecture financière mondiale.

    L’accent a été mis sur les transitions clés qui permettront d’accomplir un maximum de progrès dans toute une série de domaines : élimination de la faim, développement des énergies renouvelables, numérisation, éducation, protection sociale et travail décent, ainsi que de mettre fin à la triple crise planétaire, à savoir les changements climatiques, la pollution et l’appauvrissement de la biodiversité.

    Il a également été souligné qu’il était crucial de veiller à ce que les femmes, les filles et les jeunes aient leur place à la table des décisions.

    Aujourd’hui, vous entendrez des dirigeants et dirigeantes parler des progrès réalisés par leur pays dans tous ces domaines. Ils sont déterminés à faire bouger les lignes, en dépit des difficultés énormes auxquelles ils heurtent.

    Et nous célébrerons des réussites phares à l’échelle planétaire : depuis la réduction des taux de mortalité infantile jusqu’à l’amélioration de la prévention des nouvelles infections par le VIH, en passant par l’élargissement de l’accès aux énergies renouvelables et de l’accès au haut débit et par l’amélioration de la parité entre les femmes et les hommes dans les systèmes éducatifs.

    Alors que nous réfléchissons aux prochaines étapes, je vous invite à vous concentrer sur les trois moteurs du développement qui pourraient permettre d’accélérer le rythme des progrès.

    Tout d’abord, les financements.

    Dans de nombreux pays en développement, les investissements dans les domaines de la santé, de l’éducation et de l’alimentation sont exsangues à cause du niveau écrasant de la dette et de l’inefficacité des systèmes fiscaux.

    Dans le Pacte pour l’avenir, il est prévu d’appuyer le plan de relance des objectifs de développement durable et la réforme de l’architecture financière mondiale afin d’atténuer la crise de la dette que traversent de trop nombreux pays en développement.

    Il s’agit notamment de multiplier la capacité de prêt des banques multilatérales de développement afin de dégager davantage de ressources pour l’action climatique et le développement durable, et de modifier leur modèle de fonctionnement afin de mobiliser en masse des financements privés.

    Les Sommets sur le développement social et le financement auront lieu l’an prochain, et j’invite tous les pays à redoubler d’efforts pour faire avancer la réforme dans cette perspective.

    Le deuxième moteur du développement, c’est l’action climatique.

    J’invite les pays à adopter des plans d’action nationaux pour le climat qui soient ambitieux, en ne dépassant pas la limite des 1,5 degré, et en couvrant l’ensemble de l’économie et tous les secteurs.

    Il faudra pour cela aligner les stratégies énergétiques nationales sur l’objectif d’une élévation de la température mondiale ne dépassant pas les 1,5 degré, mettre fin aux subventions aux combustibles fossiles et fixer un prix pour le carbone.

    L’heure est venue d’éliminer progressivement mais rapidement les combustibles fossiles, au terme d’une transition équitable, et d’augmenter rapidement, avec discernement, les énergies renouvelables pour favoriser le développement durable, la sécurité énergétique et la prospérité économique.

    Nous devons répondre d’une manière juste et durable à la demande mondiale en minéraux essentiels, qui ont le potentiel de porter la révolution des énergies renouvelables. Et le Groupe chargé de la question des minéraux essentiels à la transition énergétique a formulé des recommandations à cette fin.

    Il est également essentiel de protéger les acquis du développement face aux bouleversements climatiques.

    Il faut par ailleurs que de nouvelles et généreuses contributions soient versées au Fonds pour les pertes et les préjudices.

    Les pays développés doivent honorer l’engagement qu’ils ont pris de doubler le financement de l’adaptation d’ici à 2025.

    Et il faut que les gouvernements se mettent d’accord sur un nouvel objectif ambitieux en ce qui concerne le financement de l’action climatique lors de la vingt-neuvième session de la Conférence des Parties à la Convention-cadre des Nations Unies sur les changements climatiques, y compris au sujet des sources de financement nouvelles ou novatrices.

    Le troisième facteur de développement, c’est la paix.

    Tous nos plans de développement sont rapidement anéantis par des conflits sans fin causant la mort, la destruction, la faim, les déplacements de populations et les violences basées sur le genre.

    Et les ressources dont nous avons tant besoin pour nourrir et éduquer nos enfants et construire une planète durable pour notre jeunesse sont gaspillées en dépenses militaires.

    Nous avons besoin de paix – à Gaza, en Ukraine, au Soudan, et partout ailleurs.

    J’appelle les dirigeants du monde entier à surmonter les divisions, à mettre fin aux conflits, et à investir dans l’avenir de leurs populations et dans la paix.

    Chers amis,

    Dans un monde de richesses exceptionnelles, de connaissances et de technologies sans précédent, nous n’avons aucune excuse.

    Il est temps de tenir les promesses du Programme 2030 – de mettre fin à la pauvreté, de protéger la planète, et de ne laisser personne de côté.

    Gardons les objectifs de développement durable en vie.

    Je vous remercie.
    ***

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Amherd emphasises Switzerland’s commitment to peace and calls for strengthening of multilateralism in New York

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Bern, 24.09.2024 – In her speech to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, 24 September, President Viola Amherd focused on peacebuilding and international humanitarian law. She emphasised Switzerland’s commitment to strong and effective multilateralism.

    In various conflicts around the world civilian populations and infrastructure are not only afforded inadequate protection, but are being deliberately targeted, explained the President. International law, as the foundation of all joint efforts for peace, security and prosperity in the world, must serve as the basis for action. She cited Switzerland’s commitment to peacebuilding, including the Conference on Peace in Ukraine at the Bürgenstock, and called for focused and effective multilateralism. She warned against the fragmentation of the world into blocs and paid tribute to the central role of the UN as the only universal organisation to address common challenges.

    The UN General Assembly was preceded by the Summit of the Future, which was aimed at strengthening international cooperation. Switzerland welcomes the Pact for the Future adopted at the summit as an important commitment to multilateralism. The Pact draws on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as a reference framework, sets priorities in peacebuilding and places human rights at the heart of each chapter. The Pact for the Future is a call for action by all UN member states, said President Amherd at the weekend.

    UN Security Council debate and bilateral meetings

    The president’s programme during her visit to New York continues with her participation in a high-level debate of the UN Security Council on the topic of ‘Leadership for Peace’ on Wednesday. Ms Amherd will give a speech at an event on the equal participation of women in political decision-making processes, which will be attended by other female presidents and heads of government. An event on the inclusion of women in the peace process in Afghanistan has already taken place.

    President Amherd is taking advantage of her time at the UN to meet with heads of state and government. She met with Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah and the new Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday. The talks with the Kuwaiti Crown Prince covered bilateral relations while focusing on the Middle East conflict; this subject was also addressed at the meeting with President Pezeshkian alongside the human rights situation in Iran, Switzerland’s protecting power mandate and the 2015 nuclear agreement.

    A meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres is scheduled for Tuesday evening, which is set to address issues including multilateralism and Switzerland’s presidency of the UN Security Council in October.

    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communications
    +41 58 464 50 58
    kommunikation@gs-vbs.admin.ch

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports
    http://www.vbs.admin.ch

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Police infiltration of left-wing organisations and social movements in Spain: infringement of fundamental rights and freedoms – E-001749/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001749/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Estrella Galán (The Left)

    The media outlets La Directa and El Salto have just exposed a new case of police infiltration of left-wing movements and social organisations in Spain, with nine agents being discovered in the last two years alone. It should be noted that current legislation only provides for infiltration by agents to combat alleged cases of terrorism, organised crime or drug trafficking.

    This practice – which appears to be both commonplace and systematic – is a blatant violation of the respect for, and the guarantee of, fundamental rights and freedoms such as freedom of expression, freedom of association, and data protection, which are pillars of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

    Moreover, it would appear to be a clearly ideologically motivated practice, violating the principle of non-discrimination, with the agents infiltrating exclusively left-wing organisations.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of this practice, which is contrary to basic rights and freedoms and the result of an infringement of the principle of non-discrimination on ideological grounds?
    • 2.When drawing up annual reports on the rule of law in the EU Member States and their defence, does it intend to investigate this and request information from the Spanish Government?

    Submitted: 18.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Support for far-right in Germany puts pressure on frontline countries – E-001735/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001735/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

    The results of the recent elections in Germany are compelling the German Government to take measures that place additional migratory pressure on frontline countries such as Cyprus and Greece.

    The German Government’s new measures are at odds with the Pact on Migration. The reason is simple: the new, very strict unilateral measures effectively disregard the Pact on Migration, increasing migratory pressure on countries neighbouring Germany and on frontline countries.

    • 1.Can the Commission say what steps it is taking to ensure that Member States comply with the Pact on Migration?
    • 2.Furthermore, how is it ensuring that Member States do not take unilateral emergency measures, resulting in the unbalanced distribution of migrants and the risk that other Member States might follow suit?

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – European Commission’s response to X’s non-compliance with the Digital Services Act – E-001748/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001748/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Estrella Galán (The Left)

    As a result of the investigation launched in December 2023, the Commission informed the platform X on 12 July 2024 that the latter was failing to comply with the Digital Services Act, in particular with Articles 25, 29 and 40 thereof. Far from investigating what changes in its operation were necessary to remedy the situation, the owner of the platform, Elon Musk, responded by insulting the Commissioner in charge of the preliminary investigation and dismissing the Commission.

    In other words, practices that contravene European law are continuing, and the public authorities are being ignored, much like in Brazil, where a Supreme Court judge had to suspend X’s operations in the country due to its refusal to comply with legal orders to block accounts used for committing hate crimes and spreading misinformation and fake news.

    • 1.What further steps is the Commission taking to ensure that X complies with the DSA and, above all, to enable digital independence from large technology platforms such as X in the long term?
    • 2.Will it continue to make use of a platform that fails to comply with European legislation?
    • 3.Is it planning to develop European digital public infrastructures that promote European digital sovereignty, in accordance with the principles of democratic oversight and the public interest?

    Submitted: 18.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ageing strategy for the Europe Union – E-001746/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001746/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Idoia Mendia Cueva (S&D)

    On 27 January 2021, the Commission adopted a Green Paper on Ageing – Fostering solidarity and responsibility between generations (COM(2021)0050).

    Europe’s ageing population is one of the major challenges for the EU, but also an opportunity to transform our economy by creating better jobs and improving our long-term care system.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission take the view that it is time to continue the work initiated in the Green Paper and to move towards a White Paper setting out specific measures to address the challenge of ageing in the EU?
    • 2.Does the Commission believe that there is a need to develop an ageing strategy for the European Union, with clear and long-term objectives?

    Submitted: 18.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Flawed Albanian census supported by EU funding – E-001733/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001733/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)

    In 2023, the European Commission provided EUR 4.8 million in funds to assist Albania in carrying out a census. This was because the previous census, conducted in 2011, was severely criticised by the Council of Europe owing to a number of violations[1].

    On 28 June 2024, following the completion of the census earlier that month, the Democratic Union of the Greek Minority in Albania (also known as Omonoia) issued a statement declaring the results of the census to be ‘unfounded, untrue and unacceptable’ and adding that Omonoia ‘therefore rejects the results of the census procedure with regard to the demography of the native Greek ethnic minority’.

    Serious problems were identified and flaws in the population census procedure were reported, specifically: (a) an unreliable methodology, given that the principle of self-identification was not applied and that questionnaires preventing the proper recording of national identity, language and religion were used; (b) a lack of transparency in data collection and processing; (c) the distortion of results and interference with / manipulation of responses and (d) the failure to involve minority representatives.

    In view of this, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.Has it assessed the ‘integrity’ of the census and reviewed the (flawed) census procedure and its (dubious) results? Is it satisfied with its findings?
    • 2.Will there be any consequences for Albania should any misuse of these funds be found and, if so, what will these be?

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    • [1] See question E-002964/2023 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2023-002964_EN.html
    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring reliable and fast connections in rural areas and regions bordering Russia – E-001723/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001723/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elsi Katainen (Renew)

    Today, high-speed broadband connectivity is a necessity, even in sparsely populated areas. While better speeds have been introduced and fibre optic cables are reaching many homes, growing regional disparity is a reality. Adequate and reliable connectivity is a necessity for many activities, including business, investment, farming and teleworking.

    By way of example, people living in rural areas in Finland are experiencing low speeds and limited connectivity, as 3G networks are being dismantled. The proximity of the Russian border and potential interference with telecommunications networks underlines the need to ensure secure, reliable and fast connections outside urban areas. Support for the construction of fixed networks has been provided through rural development and recovery instrument funds, but this has resulted in broadband largely being built in areas with sufficient population density.

    How will the Commission ensure that the Gigabit Society 2025 and Digital Decade 2030 targets can be achieved in sparsely populated areas in the regions bordering Russia, especially with regard to broadband development?

    Submitted: 16.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Fears and regrets expressed by Gabriele Mazzini about the Artificial Intelligence Act – E-001729/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001729/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    The combined share of artificial intelligence (AI) patents awarded between 2010 and 2022 shows that only 2% originated from the EU and the UK, while 61% came from China, 16% from the United States and 21% from the ‘rest of the world’[1]. In January, the Commission launched measures to ‘support European startups and SMEs in developing trustworthy AI that respects EU values and rules’[2]. Parliament adopted the AI Act in March 2024[3].

    Everyone agrees that the dangers of unethical use of AI need to be recognised, but European countries also need to remain competitive with Chinese and US giants in this crucial area.

    Gabriele Mazzini, the lead author at the Commission of the proposal for an AI Act, has apparently stated that ‘the regulatory bar may have been placed too high’, fearing that legal uncertainty will paralyse European firms, benefiting in particular the US tech giants[4].

    Does the Commission share Mr Mazzini’s fears and regrets?

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    • [1] The AI index report, Measuring trends in AI – Stanford University – https://aiindex.stanford.edu/report/
    • [2] Commission launches AI innovation package to support Artificial Intelligence startups and SMEs – European Commission press release – 24 January 2024.
    • [3] Artificial intelligence: MEPs adopt landmark legislation – European Parliament press release – 13.3.2024.
    • [4] ‘Europe Has US Tech in Its Sights. It Might Miss,’ Lionel Laurent – Bloomberg – 1.8.2024.
    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of possible curb on exports of Russian uranium – E-001721/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001721/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Thomas Pellerin-Carlin (S&D)

    Several daily newspapers, including the Financial Times, have recently warned that Russia could curb exports of uranium. This act of retaliation from the country in response to the sanctions that the EU has imposed against it would direct affect the EU’s nuclear plants, many of which are still dependent on Russian supplies. With Russia accounting for about one third of the world’s uranium enrichment capacity and about 5 % of uranium mining, there is a real threat posed to the EU’s energy security here.

    • 1.What did the Commission do before 22 February 2022 and what has it done since to anticipate this risk?
    • 2.Has it looked at what the impact would be if this Russian supply were to be fully disrupted?
    • 3.What will it do to reduce the EU’s dependence on Russia for sourcing products in the value chain of the civil nuclear industry?

    Submitted: 16.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compatibility of internal border controls with the Schengen Borders Code – E-001719/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001719/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Pascal Arimont (PPE)

    Temporary internal border controls have been allowed at all German borders since 16 September 2024. Following temporary border controls already in place at Germany’s borders with Austria, Switzerland, Czechia and Poland, the German Ministry of the Interior has ordered further temporary internal border controls to last six months at the country’s borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, France and Denmark. It informed the Commission of the new border controls on 9 September 2024.

    • 1.Are these internal border controls in line with Article 25(2) of the Schengen Borders Code (Regulation (EU) 2016/399), according to which such controls may be introduced only as a last resort?
    • 2.Are these internal border controls consistent with the principles of necessity and proportionality set out in Article 26 of the Schengen Borders Code?
    • 3.How does the Commission intend to avoid a domino effect if other Member States decide to follow Germany, France, Austria, Sweden, Denmark, Italy and Slovenia and reintroduce their own border controls?

    Submitted: 16.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Support for remote, cut-off areas – E-001744/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001744/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Geadis Geadi (ECR)

    In the light of the European Union’s interest in supporting remote areas, one of the most remote areas in the whole of Europe is the Tellyria area in Cyprus.

    This is an outlying border area trapped in an enclave between mountains, the sea and the territories illegally occupied by Türkiye, all of which makes the day-to-day lives of the inhabitants exceptionally difficult.

    The challenges this area faces are enormous, owing to the Turkish occupation, which has led to geographical isolation and makes the day-to-day lives of the inhabitants even more difficult. This complex situation limits opportunities for economic development, impedes access to vitally important services and undermines social cohesion. This means that there is an urgent need for practical support for these areas, to boost the prosperity of their inhabitants.

    In view of this:

    • 1.What specific measures does the Commission intend to adopt to provide aid to the areas in question, in order to ensure their economic, social and cultural development, the safety of their inhabitants and unimpeded access for them to basic services?
    • 2.What steps will it take to improve access for the inhabitants of the area to basic services such as health, education and transport?
    • 3.How does the Commission propose to address the problems of isolation created by the ongoing Turkish occupation, in order to ensure the prosperity and security of the inhabitants of Tellyria?

    Submitted: 18.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Food waste: Every little effort makes a difference – 24-09-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    At least one billion meals are being wasted in households worldwide every day. This is the equivalent of a meal served every day to every single person in the world suffering from hunger. Importantly, when food is discarded, all the embedded energy and resources and their environmental consequences, such as greenhouse gas emissions – that accumulate along the food chain – still materialise with no benefit for human nutrition.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of the General Product Safety Regulation on SMEs/VSEs selling online – P-001787/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001787/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nadine Morano (PPE)

    From 13 December 2024, during the Christmas shopping period, the General Product Safety Regulation will be applicable in all Member States.

    This Regulation, which aims to provide more certainty and transparency to consumers when shopping online, raises concerns among many SMEs/VSEs in the distance sales sector about the significant increase in administrative burdens that might result from its application. Both competitiveness and jobs in the sector are at stake, as well as the purchasing power of consumers.

    The application of the Regulation by certain SMEs/VSEs which sell online and have very many listings but few items per listing, particularly for cultural products, seems likely to create a significant workload, particularly in the area of labelling and traceability.

    Article 17 of the Regulation requires the Commission to inform economic operators of how the legislation is to be implemented.

    In this context:

    • 1.What measures has the Commission taken and what action will it take to comply with this obligation to provide information, in particular with regard to SMEs/VSEs?
    • 2.What arrangements does the Commission intend to put in place to support SMEs/VSEs which encounter difficulties in complying with the Regulation? Has provision been made for exemptions or accommodations?

    Submitted: 23.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Election of the fourth Vice-Chair and exchanges on topical issues – Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

    Source: European Parliament

    On 3 October, the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development will elect its fourth Vice-Chair. Members will also attend a workshop devoted to food price inflation, and discuss the Commission Communication on force majeure and exceptional circumstances in the CAP legislation.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Energy transition – 24-09-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Energy transition is central to the European Union’s ambition to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. The EU greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets – 55 % by 2030 and net-zero by 2050 – have accelerated the move away from fossil fuels towards cleaner energy sources and increased energy efficiency. The REPowerEU plan and other EU measures launched in response to the energy crisis meanwhile brought to the fore the importance of ensuring energy security and energy affordability. Existing EU legislation in support of energy transition includes the recently revised Renewable Energy Directive, the Energy Efficiency Directive and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. These laws set targets for renewables in consumption, energy efficiency and building renovations. The recently adopted hydrogen and decarbonised gas market package, along with the electricity market reform, also promote the use of cleaner energy and integration of renewables into the EU energy system. The new political priorities of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen include a future clean industrial deal boosting investment in clean energy infrastructure and technologies. The aim is to further decarbonise the economy and bring down energy prices. In a similar vein, the recent report on EU competitiveness (Draghi Report) highlights the need to reconcile industrial competitiveness with climate neutrality through increased support for clean technologies. These include for instance renewables (such as solar and wind), batteries, heat pumps, electrolysers (used for hydrogen production) and CO2 capture technologies. While the EU has been steadily increasing the rollout of renewables and working towards decarbonisation, several challenges remain. The energy infrastructure must be adapted to accommodate low-carbon energy sources through the expansion of grids and energy storage. Dependence on raw materials needed for clean energy technologies needs to be addressed. The new EU ambitions in terms of boosting industrial competitiveness will also require massive investment. All this has to happen while ensuring secure energy supply and energy affordability.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU targets for reducing material and consumption footprints – E-001734/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001734/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Carola Rackete (The Left)

    Paragraph 7 of the European Parliament resolution of 10 February 2021 on the New Circular Economy Action Plan[1] ‘[c]alls on the Commission to propose binding EU targets for 2030 to significantly reduce the EU material and consumption footprints and bring them within planetary boundaries by 2050, using the indicators to be adopted by end of 2021 as part of the updated monitoring framework; calls on the Commission to build on the examples set by the most ambitious Member States while taking due account of differences in starting points and capabilities between the Member States’.

    Furthermore, the EU’s 8th Environment Action Programme (2022)[2] calls for a significant decrease in the EU’s material and consumption footprints, both to safeguard precious natural resources and because the extraction and processing of these resources has significant environmental impacts, such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

    • 1.How has the Commission responded to paragraph 7 of Parliament’s resolution and the related call in the 8th Environment Action Programme?
    • 2.What action, if any, has the Commission taken?
    • 3.Does the Commission agree that EU targets for reducing material and consumption footprints are necessary, and if so, does the Commission intend to propose relevant legislation?

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    • [1] OJ C 465, 17.11.2021, p. 11.
    • [2] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/environment-action-programme-2030_en.
    Last updated: 24 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: G7 DFIs, MedAccess, EIB, and IFC Announce MoU for Surge Financing Initiative for Medical Countermeasures

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Today, participating G7 development finance institutions (DFIs), MedAccess, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the Surge Financing Initiative for Medical Countermeasures (MCMs). These DFIs are working closely with global and regional health organizations to establish the collaboration frameworks and innovative financing mechanisms needed to support a rapid and equitable pandemic response. Building on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative will focus on the procurement, production, and distribution of vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other MCMs for low- and lower-middle-income countries. The MoU builds on the Joint Statement of Collaboration announced at UNGA last year as well as the Chair Summary and Report that outlined collaboration and innovating financing options. This effort is a joint collaboration between participating G7 DFIs, MedAccess, EIB, and IFC, in accord with G7 Hiroshima Vision for Equitable Access to Medical Countermeasures launched at the 2023 Hiroshima Summit and reaffirmed at the 2024 Apulia Summit.

    The MoU was signed by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC, USA), Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP, Italy), British International Investment & MedAccess (UK), KfW & Germany’s Development Finance Institution DEG (Germany), AFD & Proparco (France), JICA (Japan), EIB (European Union), and IFC (World Bank Group). The MoU also has support from the Government of Canada and leading global and regional health organizations.  

    This work builds on ongoing collaboration across many DFIs on regional manufacturing in Africa. The ongoing Mpox public health emergency underscores the importance of this collaboration and need for surge financing. Leveraging this initiative, DFIs met with leading global health organizations including the World Health Organization, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Gavi, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) on August 22, soon after Mpox was declared a public health emergency of international concern, to discuss response efforts and financing needs.

    “DFC is proud to support this first-of-its kind framework to ensure DFIs can act swiftly and cohesively to provide surge financing for life-saving products at the start of a health emergency. We expect to leverage this initiative for the Mpox response, working closely with our U.S. Government, development finance, and health partners More broadly, DFC’s investments in health services, supply chains, and technology all help bolster pandemic preparedness and health system resilience.” said DFC DCEO Nisha Biswal.

    “JICA believes this surge financing initiative will enhance coordination among development finance institutions and health organizations to achieve our commitment to work towards equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured and affordable MCMs for health emergencies, which Japan announced as Chair of the 2023 G7 Summit in Hiroshima.   Leveraging this initiative and JICA’s own lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, we will continue to support countries that have suffered from inequitable access to MCMs in the past,” said Chief Representative of JICA USA Office Satoko Tanaka.

    “IFC is proud to participate in this innovative framework to support medical countermeasure financing mechanisms, an important step for responding more effectively to future health crises. Collaboration between development finance institutions and global health partners is key to ensure coordinated efforts that strengthen healthcare systems and supply chains, enhancing pandemic preparedness.” said Vice President of Industries Mohamed Gouled.

    “DEG and KfW are committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, one of which is improving healthcare”, said Member of the DEG Management Board Monika Beck. “Therefore, we are delighted to support this initiative to provide financing for healthcare products during health emergencies, together with our trusted development finance partner institutions. We are convinced that it is essential to join forces to support improved access to critical health products when they are in short supply.”

    “Sustainable development is linked to equitable and rightful access to health and well-being. As CDP, we strongly support this initiative, which has been mentioned in the G7 Leaders’ final declaration last June at the Apulia Summit, that will foster the development of health systems across emerging economies, ensuring the foundation is laid for research, production, and distribution of essential medicines, diagnostic equipment, and vaccines. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical need for every nation to be equipped with the tools to safeguard public health in times of crisis. Achieving the 2030 UN SDGs will require robust global collaboration, and we are proud to partner with G7 DFIs, the European Investment Bank, and the International Finance Corporation to help make this vision a reality.” said CDP Director of International Development Cooperation Paolo Lombardo.

    “The COVID-19 pandemic showed us the value of working together but also the need to coordinate our actions more closely,” said EIB Vice President Thomas Östros. “With joint efforts, we can multiply our impact and effectiveness, especially in meeting current challenges such as Mpox and in tackling future health emergencies. At the EIB, global health is a key priority, and we highly value this partnership.”

    “The MoU is an important step towards strengthening global health security and reducing the impact of future pandemics on vulnerable populations. This furthers our commitment, as the UK’s DFI, to invest in businesses that provide essential health services and products, including vaccines. It will ensure that future health crises can be mitigated to allow continued economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries, said BII Chair Diana Layfield.

    “When critical health products are in short supply, fast and flexible capital can make the difference between life and death,“ said CEO of MedAccess Michael Anderson. “The COVID-19 pandemic showed how quickly global supply chains can grind to a halt when overwhelming demand meets scarce supply. This led to inequitable distribution of medical products, leaving millions of people at risk from the disease. Today’s announcement underlines our shared commitment to being prepared for future pandemics with the capital and financial tools to enable companies to meet large-scale, urgent demand for lifesaving products.”

    “A lesson learned from the COVID-19 crisis is that it is possible to mobilize significant public and private financial resources in turbulent times. Let’s use this experience of successful mobilization to anticipate effective pandemic preparedness. I believe this Memorandum of Understanding is one of the necessary steps towards better coordination among Public Development Banks to mobilize the private sector and demonstrates the catalytic power of joining forces for innovative financial instruments, as explored by Finance in Common and its Social Investment Coalition. Health is a common good, no one should be left behind in the face of a pandemic,” said Rémy Rioux, CEO of AFD Group (AFD, Proparco, and Expertise France) and Chairman of Finance in Common Summit in Paris.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It finances sound investment contributing to EU policy goals. The EIB’s activities focus on the following priority areas: climate and environment, development, innovation and skills, small and medium-sized businesses, infrastructure, and cohesion. The EIB works closely with other institutions and has provided total financing of more than € 42 billion for healthcare-related projects around the world since it started investing in the sector in 1997.  

    The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) partners with the private sector to finance solutions to the most critical challenges facing the developing world today. We invest across sectors including energy, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and small business and financial services. DFC investments adhere to high standards and respect the environment, human rights, and worker rights. 

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Invasion and destructive impact of various pufferfish species ( Tetraodontidae ) in the Mediterranean Sea – E-001726/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001726/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D), Thomas Bajada (S&D), Eric Sargiacomo (S&D), André Rodrigues (S&D)

    The increasing prevalence of various pufferfish species (Tetraodontidae) in the Mediterranean Sea poses a significant threat to fisheries, marine ecosystems and the economies of coastal regions. These invasive species, which have entered the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal, are known for their highly poisonous tetrodotoxin, making them a serious health hazard when consumed. Furthermore, their predatory behaviour and destructive impact on fishing gear are causing substantial ecological damage.

    In light of these alarming developments:

    • 1.What initiatives does the Commission intend to take to effectively combat the spread of these species and to protect the marine ecosystem and economic activity of the EU’s coastal regions?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to fund compensation programmes for fishers affected by pufferfish, and to promote alternative fishing methods?
    • 3.What measures does the Commission intend to take, in cooperation with non-EU countries that share the same marine basin, to promote a transnational strategy for combating the invasion of pufferfish in the Mediterranean Sea?

    Submitted: 17.9.2024

    Last updated: 24 September 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Effects of drought on Mediterranean regions – E-001512/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. In her recently published 2024-2029 Political Guidelines[1], the President of the Commission has announced that the next Commission intends to adopt a European Water Resilience Strategy to ensure that water is properly managed, scarcity reduced, and the competitive edge of Europe’s water industry strengthened also using a circular economy approach. The adoption date of the strategy will be determined once the new Commission is in place.

    2. It is very important for Member States to close their investment gaps by using existing European funds to the fullest extent. The current Mult i annual Financial Framework 2021-2027[2] already provides for various possibilities to financially support improvements of water management and innovation in the water sector (through the European Regional Development Fund[3], the Recovery and Resilience Fund[4], Horizon Europe[5], the EU programme for the environment and climate action[6] etc) . Moreover, the Common Agricultural Policy for 2023-2027[7] funds more efficient irrigation, supports nature-based solutions and organic farming. In case of natural disasters or health emergencies, Member States may also seek support from the EU Solidarity Fund[8].

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/president-elect-ursula-von-der-leyen_en
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/eu-budget/long-term-eu-budget/2021-2027_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en
    • [5] For instance, ongoing Horizon Europe programmes regarding water resilience include ‘the Water4All Partnership (https://www.water4all-partnership.eu/) , the Partnership on Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area — PRIMA (https://prima-med.org/) , the EU missions “A Soil Deal for Europe” (https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/soil-deal-europe_en), “Restore our Ocean and Waters” (https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/restore-our-ocean-and-waters_en) and “Adaptation to Climate Change” (https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/adaptation-climate-change_en ).
    • [6] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/life_en
    • [7] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy/cap-overview/cap-2023-27_en
    • [8] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/solidarity-fund_en
    Last updated: 24 September 2024

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