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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Names Dr. Dean Burke as Incoming DCH Commissioner

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced he will appoint Dr. Dean Burke to serve as Commissioner of the Department of Community Health, effective August 1, following current Commissioner Russel Carlson’s announcement that he has accepted a position in the private sector.

    “Marty, the girls, and I want to thank Dr. Burke for continuing his service to the people of our state in this new leadership position,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Given his extensive background in medicine and healthcare policy, he is uniquely qualified to fill this role at a pivotal time for this important agency. I’m confident he will demonstrate the same level of commitment as commissioner that he has shown throughout his many years of public service.”

    “I also want to thank Russel Carlson for his years of service and many contributions to the Department of Community Health,” continued Governor Kemp. “He has been a knowledgeable leader and was pivotal during the launch of the innovative Georgia Pathways to Coverage program. Our family wishes him, Anne-Marie, and their three children well in this next phase of his career.”

    Dean Burke currently serves as Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Community Health. In this role, Burke advises the leadership team on healthcare policy and quality improvement activities throughout each division. He also directly oversees the State Health Benefit Plan and the State Office of Rural Health.

    Previously, Burke represented Senate District 11 where he served as Chairman of the Insurance and Labor Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee and Ethics Committee, an Ex-Officio of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, the Secretary of Appropriations, and was a member of the Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee and the Rules Committee. He also served as Chairman of the Community Health Appropriations sub-committee.

    Prior to his election to the state Senate, Burke served on the Bainbridge City Council for five years and on the Lower Flint Water Council. He also worked as Chief Medical Officer at Memorial Hospital and Manor in Bainbridge and Chaired the Stratus Healthcare Governing Board. He is a former member of the Hospital Authority of the City of Bainbridge and Decatur County.

    Burke graduated Summa Cum Laude from Georgia Southwestern University and went on to graduate from the Medical College of Georgia. He received his specialty training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mercer University School of Medicine and practiced obstetrics and gynecology for 27 years in rural Georgia. Burke and his wife, Thea, have two children and three grandchildren, and they reside in Bainbridge.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Names Dr. Dean Burke as Incoming DCH Commissioner

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced he will appoint Dr. Dean Burke to serve as Commissioner of the Department of Community Health, effective August 1, following current Commissioner Russel Carlson’s announcement that he has accepted a position in the private sector.

    “Marty, the girls, and I want to thank Dr. Burke for continuing his service to the people of our state in this new leadership position,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Given his extensive background in medicine and healthcare policy, he is uniquely qualified to fill this role at a pivotal time for this important agency. I’m confident he will demonstrate the same level of commitment as commissioner that he has shown throughout his many years of public service.”

    “I also want to thank Russel Carlson for his years of service and many contributions to the Department of Community Health,” continued Governor Kemp. “He has been a knowledgeable leader and was pivotal during the launch of the innovative Georgia Pathways to Coverage program. Our family wishes him, Anne-Marie, and their three children well in this next phase of his career.”

    Dean Burke currently serves as Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Community Health. In this role, Burke advises the leadership team on healthcare policy and quality improvement activities throughout each division. He also directly oversees the State Health Benefit Plan and the State Office of Rural Health.

    Previously, Burke represented Senate District 11 where he served as Chairman of the Insurance and Labor Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee and Ethics Committee, an Ex-Officio of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, the Secretary of Appropriations, and was a member of the Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee and the Rules Committee. He also served as Chairman of the Community Health Appropriations sub-committee.

    Prior to his election to the state Senate, Burke served on the Bainbridge City Council for five years and on the Lower Flint Water Council. He also worked as Chief Medical Officer at Memorial Hospital and Manor in Bainbridge and Chaired the Stratus Healthcare Governing Board. He is a former member of the Hospital Authority of the City of Bainbridge and Decatur County.

    Burke graduated Summa Cum Laude from Georgia Southwestern University and went on to graduate from the Medical College of Georgia. He received his specialty training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mercer University School of Medicine and practiced obstetrics and gynecology for 27 years in rural Georgia. Burke and his wife, Thea, have two children and three grandchildren, and they reside in Bainbridge.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/CHINA – The Bishop of Beijing confers the missionary mandate to newly graduated seminarians

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Seminario di Pechino

    Beijing (Agenzia Fides) – Joseph Li Shan, Bishop of the diocese of Beijing, on Sunday, July 6, during the solemn closing ceremony of the 2024/2025 academic year, conferred the missionary mandate (for pastoral internship) and the degree in Philosophy to the nine seminarians of the diocesan Major Seminary. Bishop Li also presented diplomas to the four seminarians who passed all the teaching exams to qualify for teaching adults (higher education examination for self-learner). The coadjutor Bishop of Beijing Matthew Zhen Xuebin presided over the Eucharistic liturgy celebrated in the Seminary church.During the Mass, the transfers of the diocesan priests to the parishes and institutions of the diocese were also announced.The new Executive Vice-Rector of the Seminary is Father Peter Cao Wei, who was ordained a priest on October 28, 2010, the feast of the Holy Apostles Simon and Jude Thaddeus. The former Executive Vice-Rector, Father Shi Huimin will be the new parish priest of the Beijing Cathedral, dedicated to the Holy Savior.Father Peter Cao had already worked in the seminary, also as the person responsible for the formation of seminarians and pastoral care within the seminary community. Beginning on June 30, 2015, he spent eight months in the Philippines to learn English. Upon his return to Beijing in March, the diocese entrusted him with a new mission: to serve the Chinese Catholic community in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, in the United States.In his homily, Bishop Joseph Li Shan emphasized that “the Seminary is the heart of the diocese. It is a place for the formation of outstanding vocations for the Church”. The Bishop also thanked the formators who have been working at the seminary for many years: “Thanks to their zeal and responsible attitude in accompanying vocations, as well as their quiet dedication to the formation process, the seminary has been able to achieve fruitful results and form a number of outstanding priests for the Church.”(NZ)(Agenzia Fides, 7/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUROPE/ITALY – Father Francesco Rapacioli elected Superior General of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME)

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 7 July 2025

    pime.org

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – Father Francesco Rapacioli, a missionary in Bangladesh, is the new Superior General of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME). He was elected today by the XVI General Assembly of the Missionary Institute, which has been taking place since June 22 in Rome at the International Center for Missionary Animation (CIAM). The new Superior succeeds Father Ferruccio Brambillasca, who led PIME for two consecutive terms, since 2013. Along with the new Superior, reports the PIME Asianews Agency, a new general leadership has also been elected, who will remain in office for the next six years.Francesco Rapacioli, 62, was until now Regional Superior for South Asia. Born in Paris in 1963 and raised in the Italian diocese of Piacenza-Bobbio, he joined PIME after graduating from medical school and was ordained a priest in 1993. As a missionary, he was first sent to the seminary in Pune, India, where he carried out his ministry until his transfer to Bangladesh in 1997. Returning to Italy in 2012, he served as Rector of the PIME International Seminary in Monza until 2018. Back in Dhaka, in 2020, he launched initiatives to help people recover from alcoholism and drug addiction.PIME – Asianews continues – “currently has around 400 missionaries of 17 different nationalities who carry out their ministry in 20 countries across all continents.” The most recent presence, born from the collaboration with other institutes created in mission following the same charism as PIME, is taking its first steps in Borneo, Indonesia, in the diocese of Tanjung Selor”. (Agenzia Fides, 7/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: OCEANIA/PAPUA NEW GUINEA – Resignation and appointment of the Bishop of Alotau-Sideia

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 7 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the Diocese of Alotau-Sideia (Papua New Guinea), presented by His Exc. Msgr. Rolando Crisostomo Santos, C.M. The Holy Father has appointed the Rev. Fr. Jacek Piotr Tendej, C.M., currently Rector of the Holy Spirit Seminary, Bomana (Port Moresby) as Bishop of Alotau-Sideia (Papua New Guinea).His Exc. Msgr. Jacek Piotr Tendej, C.M., was born on 26 June 1963 in Handzlówka, Łańcut (Poland). After his perpetual profession in the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians), he obtained a Master in Moral Theology from the Pontifical Academy of Theology in Krakow, a Licentiate in Educational Sciences from the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome and a Doctorate in Pedagogy from the Akademia Pedagogiczma im. Kaomisji Edukacji Narodowej in Krakow.He was ordained a priest on May 25, 1991.He has held the following positions: Primary School Teacher in Zakopane, Poland (1991-1995); High School Teacher in Krakow, Poland (1995-1997); Teacher and Chaplain at St. Stanislaus Kostka in Brooklyn, New York, USA (2000); Youth Educator at the Fr. Siemaszko Foundation in Krakow (2001-2002); Professor of Educational Sciences at the Theological Institute of the Pontifical University John Paul II in Krakow (2001-2013). Since 2014, he has been Rector of the Holy Spirit Seminary, Bomana (Port Moresby). (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 7/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: OCEANIA/PAPUA NEW GUINEA – Appointment of the Bishop of Wabag

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 7 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Pope Leo XIV appointed Justin Ain Soongie, the former Auxiliary Bishop and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Wabag, as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Wabag (Papua New Guinea) and revoked his titular see of Forma.Bishop Justin Ain Soongie was born on June 2, 1973, in Tsikiro (Papua New Guinea). He completed his postulancy and novitiate with the Brothers of Charity and continued his priestly formation at the Good Shepherd Seminary in Fatima, Banz, and at the Catholic Theological Institute in Bomana. He earned a licentiate in moral theology from the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome. He was ordained a priest on May 11, 2005.He has held the following positions: Assistant Parish Priest in Tsikiro (2005) and in Mang and Mariant (2005 – 2006); Parish Priest in Mang (2006–2011); Vicar General of the Diocese of Wabag (2014 – 2021); Professor at the Banz Seminary in the Archdiocese of Mt. Hagen (2014 – 2021); Parish Priest in Sari (2014 – 2021). On June 15, 2021, he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Wabag, receiving the titular See of Forma; on the following September 2, he received episcopal consecration. Since 2025, he has been Diocesan Administrator of Wabag. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 7/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Remarks by Paschal Donohoe following the Eurogroup meeting of 7 July 2025

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Remarks by Eurogroup President Paschal Donohoe after the Eurogroup meeting on his reappointment as President of the Eurogroup, budget policy coordination for 2026, the international role of the euro, Bulgaria’s adoption of the euro, the digital euro and EIB’s initiatives to support the savings and investment union.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Call for stronger BRICS, G20 synergy to champion developing nations

    Source: Government of South Africa

    By Gabi Khumalo

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – President Cyril Ramaphosa says Brazil’s leadership of BRICS and COP30, together with South Africa’s Presidency of the G20, provides a unique opportunity to send a strong signal of unity and solidarity in support of the rights and interests of developing economy countries.

    “Our concurrent leadership of these bodies must emphasise the pressing need to close the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) implementation gap and the climate ambition gap and ensure that just transitions pathways leave no one behind,” President Ramaphosa said.

    He was delivering a keynote address during the “Environment, COP30 and Global Health” session of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Monday.

    The President highlighted that BRICS – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – was a key platform to shaping a new model of multilateral cooperation based on equity, sustainability and inclusive development. 

    He called for the bloc to be used to drive climate-resilient development across Africa and the Global South.

    President Ramaphosa underscored the importance of using BRICS’ collective voice to advance reforms to modernise multilateral development bank mandates and ensure they better reflect the voices and priorities of developing countries.

    He called for scaled-up concessional financing for climate action to catalyse investments in early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, community-led adaptation, and people-centred just transition pathways.

    “At the same time, we need to drive the global health agenda towards inclusive, equitable, innovative, and sustainable health solutions. Global health financing is being severely impacted by the substantial and sudden withdrawals of official development assistance.

    “Many of the programmes that were supported through this assistance were for disease elimination and targeted towards the most vulnerable populations, like young women and girls, children and adolescents,” the President said.

    While acknowledging the countries great strides made towards Tuberculosis, Malaria and HIV elimination, through the support of organisations like the Global Fund, President Ramaphosa warned these gains are being threatened by political attention and reduced financing.

    As the co-host of the Global Fund’s 8th replenishment campaign together with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, President Ramaphosa called on countries, businesses and the wider donor community to contribute to the fund in the interests of global health security.

    “If we achieve the target of US$18 billion for the 2027 to 2029 cycle, it is estimated that the Global Fund can save 23 million lives, reduce the combined mortality rate by another 64% relative to 2023 levels, and prevent around 400 million infections.”

    He reiterated that investing in the Global Fund was also an investment in health system strengthening and universal health care, especially for vulnerable countries in the Global South.

    “As we confront these and other development challenges, BRICS needs to be at the forefront of a new inclusive multilateralism. Let us use our growing voice to advance a global order that improves the lives of all the world’s people and safeguards the planet for future generations,” the President said.

    The two-day summit, held from 6 to 7 July 2025, highlighted the ongoing humanitarian impact of Israeli military action in Gaza and in conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Iran; and advocated for the sustainable resolution of conflicts through diplomacy, inclusive dialogue, and a commitment to the United Nations Charter.

    It also explored ways of expanding tangible trade, tourism, investment, and financial cooperation within BRICS and with BRICS partner countries. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Programme Management Officer, P-4, Bridgetown

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Apply here

    Org. Setting and Reporting

    Created in December 1999, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is the designated focal point in the United Nations system for the coordination of efforts to reduce disasters and to ensure synergies among the disaster reduction activities of the United Nations and regional organizations and activities in both developed and less developed countries. Led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG), UNDRR has over 160 staff located in its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and in regional offices. Specifically, UNDRR guides, monitors, analyses and reports on progress in the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, supports regional and national implementation of the Framework and catalyzes action and increases global awareness to reduce disaster risk working with UN Member States and a broad range of partners and stakeholders, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians and the science and technology community. This project position is based in Bridgetown, Barbados. The Programme Officer reports to the Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for America and the Caribbean, who is based in Panama City, Panama.

    Responsibilities

    Within delegated authority, the Programme Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

    • Develops, implements and evaluates assigned programmes/projects in the Caribbean region, etc.; monitors and analyzes programme/project development and implementation; reviews relevant documents and reports; identifies problems and issues to be addressed and initiates corrective actions; liaises with relevant parties; hire and supervise staff and consultants, built and sustain partnerships, ensures follow-up actions.
    • Performs consulting assignments, in collaboration with the client, by planning facilitating workshops, through other interactive sessions and assisting in developing the action plan the client will use to manage the change.
    • Provides substantive support to intergovernmental processes dealing with risk reduction by: preparing inputs for reports /processes of intergovernmental bodies; following intergovernmental meetings and preparing summary reports; preparing inputs to statements by members of the bureau and Secretariat staff to such meetings; assisting in the organization of panels, round tables, etc. on risk reduction and resilience.
    • Researches, analyzes and presents information gathered from diverse sources.
    • Coordinates policy development, including the review and analysis of issues and trends, preparation of evaluations or other research activities and studies,
    • Generates survey initiatives; designs data collection tools; reviews, analyzes and interprets responses, identifies problems/issues and prepares conclusions. • Organizes and prepares written outputs, e.g. draft background papers, talking points, analysis, sections of reports and studies, inputs to publications, etc.
    • Provides substantive backstopping to consultative and other meetings, conferences, etc., to include proposing agenda topics, identifying participants, preparation of documents and presentations, etc.
    • Initiates and coordinates outreach activities; conducts training workshops, seminars, etc.; makes presentations on assigned topics/activities. Upon delegation from the Chief of the Regional office, participates in regional or national meetings on the implementation of the Sendai Framework in the regional.
    • Leads and/or participates in large, complex field missions, including provision of guidance to external consultants, government officials and other parties and drafting mission summaries, etc.
    • Coordinates activities related to budget funding (programme/project preparation and submissions, progress reports, financial statements, etc.) and prepares related documents/reports (pledging, work programme, programme budget, annual reports, impact stories etc.). Ensures that the outputs produced meet high-quality standards; that reports are clear, objective and based on comprehensive data; and that they comply with relevant organizational mandates.
    • Serves as the contact point for the Santiago Network on loss and damage for the Caribbean region in liaison with the SN secretariat.
    • Performs other duties as required.

    Competencies

    Professionalism: Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation or other relevant specialized field. Ability to identify issues, analyze and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources on the internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

    Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

    Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

    Education

    Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in sustainable development, disaster risk reduction, climate change or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with an additional two (2) years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

    Work Experience

    A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration or related area is required. At least three (3) years of experience in disaster risk reduction, resilience building, or climate change adaptation is required. At least two (2) years of experience in the English-speaking Caribbean region is desirable.

    Languages

    English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of Spanish or French is desirable.

    Assessment

    Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.

    Special Notice

    This is a project post. Appointment or assignment against this position is for an initial period of one year. The appointment or assignment and renewal or extension thereof are subject to the availability of the post or funds, budgetary approval or extension of the mandate. At the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the recruitment and employment of staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity, with due regard to geographic diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications and organizational needs. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. The United Nations recruits and employs staff regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds or disabilities. Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities may be provided to support participation in the recruitment process when requested and indicated in the application. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for this position. In line with the overall United Nations policy, the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction encourages a positive workplace culture which embraces inclusivity and leverages diversity within its workforce. Measures are applied to enable all staff members to contribute equally and fully to the work and development of the organization, including flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies and standards of conduct. Individual contractors and consultants who have worked within the UN Secretariat in the last six months, irrespective of the administering entity, are ineligible to apply for professional and higher, temporary or fixed-term positions and their applications will not be considered.

    United Nations Considerations

    According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Candidates will not be considered for employment with the United Nations if they have committed violations of international human rights law, violations of international humanitarian law, sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, or if there are reasonable grounds to believe that they have been involved in the commission of any of these acts. The term “sexual exploitation” means any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another. The term “sexual abuse” means the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions. The term “sexual harassment” means any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that might reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause offence or humiliation, when such conduct interferes with work, is made a condition of employment or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment, and when the gravity of the conduct warrants the termination of the perpetrator’s working relationship. Candidates who have committed crimes other than minor traffic offences may not be considered for employment. Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible. The United Nations places no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request, to support their participation in the recruitment process. By accepting a letter of appointment, staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, who may assign them to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations in accordance with staff regulation 1.2 (c). Further, staff members in the Professional and higher category up to and including the D-2 level and the Field Service category are normally required to move periodically to discharge functions in different duty stations under conditions established in ST/AI/2023/3 on Mobility, as may be amended or revised. This condition of service applies to all position specific job openings and does not apply to temporary positions. Applicants are urged to carefully follow all instructions available in the online recruitment platform, inspira, and to refer to the Applicant Guide by clicking on “Manuals” in the “Help” tile of the inspira account-holder homepage. The evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations including the Charter of the United Nations, resolutions of the General Assembly, the Staff Regulations and Rules, administrative issuances and guidelines. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications according to the instructions provided in inspira to be considered for the current job opening. No amendment, addition, deletion, revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in the application. Job openings advertised on the Careers Portal will be removed at 11:59 p.m. (New York time) on the deadline date.

    No Fee

    THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.

    Apply here

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Texas, Ukraine, Russia & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (7 July 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/BRICS
    Deputy Secretary-General
    Texas
    Ukraine / Russia
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Sudan
    South Sudan
    Syria
    Haiti
    Myanmar
    Kiswahili Language Day
    Financial Contribution

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/BRICS
    The Secretary-General is in Rio de Janeiro, in Brazil, where he is attending the 17th Summit of the BRICS countries. This morning, addressing an outreach session on “Environment, COP30 and global health”, Mr. Guterres warned that our environment is being attacked on all fronts.
    The Secretary-General pointed out that across the world, lives and livelihoods are being ripped apart, and sustainable development gains left in tatters as disasters accelerate. He said that the most vulnerable and the poorer pay the highest price and stressed that we need to tackle the point where climate and health meet.
    The Secretary-General emphasized we need governments to build on the progress of last year’s biodiversity COP, particularly reaching an ambitious agreement on finance, adding that we need to make COP30 a success, and as you know COP30 will be held in Brazil this year.
    Yesterday, addressing an outreach session on “Strengthening multilateralism, economic-financial affairs and artificial intelligence”, the Secretary-General said that artificial intelligence is reshaping economies and societies, and that the fundamental test is how wisely we guide this transformation.
    The Secretary-General also emphasized that AI cannot be a club of the few, but must benefit all, and in particular, developing countries which must have a real voice in the governance of artificial intelligence.
    The Secretary-General is also expected to hold a number of bilateral meetings with some leaders who are attending BRICS. We will share the readouts with you as we receive them.

    DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL
    The Deputy Secretary-General, over the weekend, was representing the Secretary-General at the official commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Independence of Cabo Verde.
    Today, she is in The Gambia where she met with President Adama Barrow and other senior government officials to strengthen the relationship between the United Nations and the Gambia. She also discussed with him national efforts to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
    The Deputy Secretary-General is currently meeting with youth and women stakeholders, and she is expected to highlight the importance of investing in youth skills and women’s economic empowerment as a strategic lever for advancing the SDGs.
    Tomorrow, she will travel to Cameroon to also represent the Secretary-General and this time she will be representing him at the International Conference on the Sustainable Blue Economy in the Gulf of Guinea.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=07%20July%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gvtqBRpJe0

    MIL OSI Video –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Reed release joint statement on cancellation of Ukrainian weapons shipments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – Ranking Senate Defense Appropriator Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Senate Armed Services Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-R.I.) released the following statement in response to reports that the Pentagon had cancelled already-promised weapons shipments to Ukraine:

    “The Pentagon’s reported cancellation of already-promised weapons shipments to Ukraine risks the lives of the brave Ukrainian men and women on the front lines of freedom, and rewards President Putin and his Russian forces. This assistance – including vital air defense interceptors and artillery munitions – was provided by Congress and designated to be delivered months ago. Ukraine continues to enjoy strong, bipartisan support across Congress, and we call on Secretary Hegseth to immediately restart the steady supply of these munitions.

    “This is the latest and most dramatic blow to our support for Ukraine. It comes at a perilous time, just after Russia conducted the biggest missile strike of the three-year war on civilian targets in densely populated Ukrainian cities, and on the heels of North Korea’s announcement that it would send tens of thousands more troops to aid in Russia’s brutal invasion.

    “Putin continues to be the foremost obstacle to peace. Unable to meet his goals on the battlefield, he has long hoped he could simply outlast the West. If Secretary Hegseth does not reverse this damaging step, we risk proving Putin right. President Zelenskyy has agreed to an unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine. In contrast, Putin has rejected this deal time and again.

    “Despite that stark reality, the administration has decided not to enforce our existing sanctions against Russia, declined to join our European allies in levying additional sanctions, and now, we are walking away from supplying Ukraine with American weapons they need to defend their sovereignty, and protect their hospitals, churches, schools, and apartments from relentless Russian attacks.  This is not theoretical for the Ukrainians. They are not preparing stocks for some potential future fight. Their fight is now, their people are in the crosshairs.

    “We agree with the president’s stated objective of bringing about a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. President Trump has a critical opportunity to actually achieve peace through strength: improve Ukraine’s leverage and force Putin to negotiate. The United States must stand with the people of Ukraine. The world is watching. Our adversaries are watching.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Bulgarian President Meets Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Sofia, July 07, 2025

    HE President of the Republic of Bulgaria Rumen Radev met with HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi.

    At the outset of the meeting, HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs conveyed the greetings of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to HE the President of the Republic of Bulgaria along with His Highness’ wishes of good health and happiness for His Excellency, and continued progress and prosperity for the people of Bulgaria.

    For his part, HE the President of the Republic of Bulgaria entrusted HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs with his greetings to HH the Amir, wishing His Highness good health and happiness, and further development and growth for the Qatari people.

    The meeting discussed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to enhance and develop them, in addition to a host of topics of common interest.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Angler fined for not putting back protected eel he caught

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Angler fined for not putting back protected eel he caught

    Penalty also covers not having a rod licence

    Environment Agency officers were called to a small fire on the banks of the River Medway, where they found Piotr Wieclaw fishing and an eel he’d caught.

    A fisherman from south-west London who failed to return a critically-endangered eel to a river in Kent last summer has been fined £800.

    Fisheries enforcement officers from the Environment Agency reported Piotr Wieclaw for illegal fishing in the River Medway after getting a tip-off from a member of the public. 

    One weekend last August, 52-year-old Wieclaw travelled from his home in Merton to a stretch of the 70-mile-long river between Tonbridge and Maidstone.

    Small fire

    The observant onlooker called the Environment Agency’s incident hotline, 0800 807060, after spotting a small fire burning near where Wieclaw and 3 other men were fishing. Anyone can ring the number if they think an environmental crime or pollution has been committed.

    When the 2 Environment Agency officers arrived at Porters Lock, near Tonbridge, they found a dead eel under a towel next to the fire. Wieclaw was unable to produce a valid rod licence when challenged.

    Anyone aged 13 or over needs a licence to fish for salmon, trout, eels or freshwater species. Information on when you need a licence and to buy one are at https://www.gov.uk/fishing-licences/buy-a-fishing-licence. They can also be purchased by phone: 0344 800 5386. Concessions are available.

    Kye Jerrom, a senior enforcement officer with the Environment Agency, said:

    “There are many possible reasons for the decline in eel numbers in the past 40 years. Over-fishing, habitat loss and fragmentation, parasites and climate change could all be to blame, which is why eels must be returned to the water when caught.

    “Fishing licences are great value and less expensive than fines. The income helps with the sustainable management of fisheries. It’s quick, easy and cheap to get a licence: by phone and online – search ‘fishing licence’ on gov.uk.

    “Our fisheries enforcement officers check private lakes, rivers, ponds and canals for illegal fishing, supported by clubs, the Angling Trust and police.”

    Eels are an important part of the water environment. They feed on invertebrates, fish, molluscs and crustaceans, helping to recycle nutrients. In turn, they are an important food source for other species.

    Eel-fishing strictly controlled

    Fishing for eels is strictly controlled to maintain stocks. Any eels caught must be returned to the river with as little harm as possible.

    Wieclaw, of Hillyard Place, in Merton, pleaded guilty to fishing without a valid rod licence, and removing one eel from the Medway.

    Wimbledon magistrates’ court fined him £800, with costs of £135, and a victim surcharge of £320.    

    For not having a current rod licence to fish for freshwater fish or eels on 3 August 2024, Wieclaw was charged under section 27 (1) (a) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975.

    In removing the eel from the water and not putting it back on the same date, Wieclaw broke national byelaw 3 under schedule 25 and sections 210 and 211 of the Water Resources Act 1991.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

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    Published 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kingdom of Lesotho: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    July 7, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • Against a backdrop of low growth, high unemployment, and widespread poverty, Lesotho’s government-led growth model has long struggled to deliver on the authorities’ growth and development goals. Now, an additional set of external shocks has further clouded the outlook. From a modest peak of 2.6 percent in FY24/25, GDP growth is expected to almost halve to 1.4 percent in FY25/26, reflecting a much more turbulent and uncertain external environment. The peg to the Rand has continued to serve Lesotho well, helping bring inflation down from a peak of 8.2 percent in early 2024 to 4.0 percent in April 2025.
    • Prudent government spending during FY24/25, along with buoyant South African Customs Union (SACU) transfers and water royalties have once again resulted in a sizable fiscal surplus. This has enhanced longer-term fiscal sustainability and helped strengthen foreign reserves, which supports the peg. Looking forward, increased water royalties from South Africa will further boost revenue, and help offset easing SACU transfers.
    • The main challenge for the authorities is to transform these fiscal surpluses into sustainable and high-quality growth — now even more urgent in light of recent shocks. Public funds should be saved wisely and spent strategically, with an emphasis on high-return investment projects. More effective use of public funds, alongside structural reforms, should support longer-term private sector-led growth.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Andrew Tiffin held meetings in Maseru with the authorities of Lesotho and other counterparts from the public and private sectors and civil society from June 4 to 17, 2025, as part of the 2025 Article IV consultation. Discussions focused on the mix of fiscal and monetary policies to ensure macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability, as well as the structural reforms needed to create jobs, reduce poverty, and facilitate the transition to private-sector-led growth.

    Context and Outlook

    IMF staff estimates suggest that real GDP growth picked up modestly in FY24/25 to 2.6 percent, up from 2.0 percent the previous year. In large part, this reflects spillovers from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP-II), which has helped offset declining competitiveness in the apparel sector and the impact on exports of lower diamond prices. Headline inflation was 4.0 percent in April, down from a peak of 8.2 percent in January 2024. The gap between CPI inflation in Lesotho and South Africa mainly reflects the larger share of food in Lesotho’s CPI basket.

    Lesotho’s fiscal balance registered a sizable surplus in FY24/25. South African Customs Union (SACU) transfers are up by almost 14 percent of GDP compared with FY23/24, and recurrent spending has remained steady as a proportion of GDP, owing to a moratorium on public sector hiring and a reduction in the in-kind social assistance benefits. Capital spending increased but execution remained short of budgeted levels. The net impact has been a fiscal surplus of 9.0 percent of GDP in FY24/25, which helped lift gross international reserves to 6 months of imports; strengthening the peg. With less issuance of domestic debt, clearance of domestic arrears, and repayment of an IMF arrangement under the Rapid Financing Facility, public debt fell to 56.6 percent of GDP in FY24/25, down from 61.5 percent in FY23/24.

    However, a more uncertain global environment has undermined Lesotho’s economic outlook, with growth expected to almost halve to 1.4 percent in FY25/26. In particular, the sudden shift in policies by the United States on tariffs and official development assistance (ODA) will hit the economy hard. Details of US intentions are still unclear, but as a small and vulnerable country, Lesotho is one of the most exposed countries in Africa to changing US priorities. Exports to the United States represent 10 percent of Lesotho’s GDP, and foreign assistance from the United States has typically amounted to around 3½ percent of GDP, mostly concentrated on disease prevention and other critical health needs.

    Looking ahead, Lesotho has options. SACU transfers are expected to drop to their long-term average this year (down 6 percentage points to less than 20 percent of GDP). Filling the gap, however, renegotiated water royalty rates under the Treaty with South Africa on the LHWP-II represent a significant source of revenue—rising to almost 13 percent of GDP in FY25/26 and then settling at around 10 percent of GDP every year over the medium term. In sum, domestic revenues are expected to be around 8-10 percent of GDP higher than just a few years ago. On the monetary side, the peg to the Rand continues to serve the economy well and should remain the main focus of monetary policy. Policy rates should continue to follow South African rates closely. The central bank should take advantage of the current easing cycle to close the remaining gap with South Africa.

    The key challenge for the authorities is to transform Lesotho’s fiscal surpluses into sustained, high-quality growth. A striking lesson from the country’s recent history, however, is that greater public spending is no guarantee of higher living standards. As a proportion of GDP, for example, government spending in Lesotho is well above international norms—more than double the SACU average. But this has not been matched by improved economic performance. Indeed, real per capita incomes shrunk by 12 percent between 2016 and 2023, and unemployment and inequality remain high. Considering the possible uses of Lesotho’s surpluses, therefore, the main goal of the authorities should be to ensure that this time is different, and that these funds are saved wisely and spent strategically.

    Saving Wisely

    Greater savings will require continued fiscal prudence. To this end, the authorities should maintain their efforts to control recurrent spending and enhance capacity in tax revenue analysis and administration.

    • Contain the wage bill. Lesotho’s wage bill (as a share of GDP) is the highest among SACU members and triple the sub-Saharan African average. Reducing the amount spent on wages has long been a key recommendation of past Article IV consultations. And the government’s continued restraint over the past year has been a critical step in the right direction—this effort should continue, with a continued moratorium on hiring, streamlining of the establishment list, and regular reviews of the compensation system. It should be noted, however, that reducing the wage bill is not an end in itself. Ultimately the objective is a fair and performance-based public employment system that rewards productivity and ensures better delivery of public services.
    • Improve tax policy design and strengthen tax administration. The Tax Policy Unit has been established and key staff are being hired. With help from the IMF, the unit’s capacity to accurately forecast revenue and improve tax-system design should be strengthened quickly. On tax administration, a phased reform strategy is being implemented in line with the IMF’s 2023 TADAT assessment. Prompt approval of the two tax policy bills and tax administration bill could help address identified deficiencies in many areas.
    • Improve the efficiency of social spending to target the most needy. Social spending is several times that of neighboring countries as a share of GDP but the targeting of social safety schemes should be improved. For example, the tertiary loan bursary fund education scheme (2.7 percent of GDP) provides loans to many who typically do not need support and fail to repay (loan recovery is only 2 percent). A better targeted safety net would not only free resources for the most vulnerable but would also help enhance Lesotho’s resilience to new shocks. In this regard, the authorities should move proactively to take stock of services likely to be disrupted by cuts in U.S. assistance and swiftly develop a coordinated plan to ensure continued delivery of essential health services. More broadly, the authorities should enhance the operation of existing cash transfer programs, reinstate the national digital system for social registry to better streamline the identification and registration of beneficiaries, and accelerate the deployment of new benefit delivery tools.

    The authorities should quickly establish a well-governed savings framework (stabilization fund). The details of a framework have been developed in close cooperation with Lesotho’s development partners and aim to ensure a stable source of government funding going forward, which in turn would allow for uninterrupted service delivery even in the face of shocks. With sufficient savings, the fund might also help finance future development spending, such as infrastructure investment. To be effective, the fund needs to be anchored by a clear and credible fiscal rule, which would guide the conditions under which funds are deposited and withdrawn. The fund should also be set within a firm legal framework, with a clear governance structure that is independent from political influence, safeguarding Lesotho’s savings until they can be used wisely. In this regard, the authorities are currently developing the policy, expected by July 2025, that will guide the stipulated legal framework for the stabilization fund.

    • Within the framework, a key anchor would be a target for Lesotho’s public debt. Until very recently, debt has trended steadily upward, rising sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic. The decline over the past year has been welcome, but the IMF’s Debt Sustainability Analysis still suggests that, although the risk of debt distress is “moderate,” there is little scope to absorb any further shocks. These might easily push debt to a level where the risk of debt distress is high. A medium-term goal of 50 percent of GDP would be appropriate, as it would allow for greater resilience and is consistent with the debt anchor proposed in the fiscal rules. The authorities should therefore scale back new borrowing but might also consider first retiring existing (high cost) debt. In addition, the authorities should clear any remaining or new domestic arrears as soon as possible.

    Spending Strategically

    Improved public investment management is needed to increase the quality of capital spending. Before Lesotho’s savings are allocated for investment or infrastructure projects, sufficient controls should be in place to ensure that this investment represents value for money. Historically, high levels of public investment in Lesotho have not resulted in a capital stock of equal quality. And owing to longstanding capacity constraints, the capital budget continues to be significantly under executed. Authorities should take steps to boost the efficiency of public investment, including by creating a centralized asset registry, establishing a prioritized project pipeline and enhancing capacity for project management and monitoring. In this regard, the request for a Public Investment Management Assessment from the IMF is timely and welcome.

    In support of efforts to ensure value for money, the authorities should redouble their efforts to enhance Public Financial Management (PFM). Without these measures in place, there is a danger that new revenues will simply be wasted.

    • Budget preparation and execution must be strengthened to enhance budget credibility. This requires improved expenditure control through better collaboration between departments, monitoring and identification of mis-appropriated funds, and regular and timely audits. More broadly, the authorities should implement the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework to better align policy objectives with budget allocations over a multi-year timeframe and enhance long-term planning.
    • To build further trust in PFM, the authorities should strengthen internal controls within the integrated financial management system. The authorities should accelerate the deployment of digital signatures to strengthen payment processes and prevent the accumulation of arrears.
    • The authorities should also continue their efforts to ensure a comprehensive analysis and management of fiscal risks. Several fiscal risks have materialized in recent years, including from collapsed public private partnerships; unquantified arrears; and transfers and contingent liabilities from state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The authorities should further strengthen the effectiveness of SOE management and reporting and continue the release of a fiscal risk statement as part of the annual budget process.

    As a matter of priority, therefore, pending PFM legislation should be passed as soon as possible. Currently, the most pressing items include i) the Public Financial Management and Accountability Bill; ii) the Public Debt Management Bill; and iii) secondary legislation to implement the 2023 Public Procurement Act. Together, this legislation will improve the efficiency and transparency of procurement, enhance fiscal responsibility and budget processes, strengthen financial management and fiscal reporting. The legislation will also help ensure that the government’s public borrowing plan is well integrated with the budget process.

    With these measures and controls in place, Lesotho would be in a much better position to transform its accumulated surpluses into high-quality growth. In line with the authorities’ announced shift in emphasis from recurrent spending to capital spending, a focus on the cost effectiveness of public investment would allow for increased levels of better-quality investment, and ultimately higher growth. This would naturally entail lower fiscal surpluses going forward. However, in this context, a more relaxed fiscal stance would not necessarily entail a higher debt path, but would instead result in a slower, but acceptable, pace of reserve accumulation.

    Supporting Private-Sector Growth

    Improved public investment will need to be accompanied by broad structural reforms. Better service delivery and higher-quality investment will be helpful. But the current government-led growth model has resulted in an economy with a small and undiversified private sector—contributing to low productivity, anemic private investment, declining competitiveness, and high informality. In parallel, therefore, the authorities should accelerate efforts to unlock the growth potential of the private sector.

    • Supporting financial inclusion and literacy is imperative. Evidence suggests that access to finance remains a key challenge, particularly for small and informal firms. This in turn undermines private-sector job creation. The authorities have addressed this through various interventions, including partial credit guarantees, establishment of a moveable asset registry, and support of a credit bureau. And signs of a positive impact are emerging, particularly in financial access for small enterprises. Building on this success, the new Financial Sector Development Strategy and National Financial Inclusion Strategy are welcome and should be implemented swiftly as a matter of priority.
    • Providing a stable, predictable, and well-regulated business environment is also essential. For larger firms, needed reforms include measures to reduce the cost of doing business, and efforts to boost private investor confidence—including through transparent and consistent regulatory frameworks, greater policy consistency, and a clear long-term strategy for infrastructure development. To reverse the long-term decline of some industries (e.g., textiles) and take full advantage of new opportunities, the authorities should focus on coordinating and streamlining the efforts of the Lesotho National Development Corporation and the Basotho Enterprise Development Corporation. The authorities should also enhance the regulatory framework for the establishment, operation, and oversight of SOEs, while developing a strategy for the gradual privatization of non-performing SOEs to enhance efficiency and attract investment.
    • Mitigating corruption and strengthening the rule of law is essential to restoring confidence, investment, and growth. Legacy fraud cases point to underlying vulnerabilities in payment and procurement, underscoring the need for the transparency and accountability that would result from successful PFM reform. More broadly, strengthening key bodies such as the Office of the Auditor General and the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO) would also send a strong signal of the government’s resolve, and help incentivize private sector development. In this regard, the increased funding and expansion of the DCEO has been most welcome.

    The IMF team thanks the Lesotho authorities and other counterparts for their hospitality and for a candid and productive set of discussions.

     

     

    Lesotho: Selected Economic Indicators, 2020/21–2030/31 1/

    Population (thousands; 2023 est.)

    2,330

    Per capita GDP (US$, 2024)

    1,067

    Quota (current, millions SDR)

    69.8

    Poverty rate at national poverty line (percent, 2017 est.)

    49.7

    Main exports

    Textiles, Diamond, Water

    Literacy rate (2022)

    82.0

    Key export markets

    South Africa, U.S.

     
     

    2020/21

    2021/22

    2022/23

    2023/24

    2024/25

    2025/26

    2026/27

    2027/28

    2028/29

    2029/30

    2030/31

     

    Actual

    Est.

    Projections

    (Percentage Change)

    Real GDP growth

       (%, including LHWP-II)

    -5.3

    1.9

    2.0

    2.0

    2.6

    1.4

    1.1

    0.8

    1.4

    1.5

    1.5

    Real GDP growth

        (%, excluding LHWP-II)

    -4.4

    2.2

    1.2

    1.5

    2.0

    0.2

    1.3

    2.1

    1.6

    1.6

    1.7

    Inflation (%)

    5.4

    6.5

    8.2

    6.5

    5.2

    4.5

    4.8

    5.1

    5.1

    5.0

    5.0

     

    (Percent of GDP)

    Revenue

    55.6

    48.8

    44.4

    56.7

    62.2

    59.5

    58.7

    58.8

    57.2

        57.4

    56.6

       Of which: SACU transfers

    26.2

    16.5

    14.0

    24.5

    26.0

    19.6

    20.4

    21.6

    19.9

    20.0

    19.1

    Recurrent Expenditure

    43.0

    38.3

    38.9

    40.8

    40.9

    43.8

    42.0

    42.5

    42.6

    42.6

    42.7

    Capital Expenditure

    11.4

    15.4

    12.0

    8.6

    12.3

    12.8

    12.9

    12.9

    13.0

    13.1

    13.1

    Fiscal balance

    1.2

    -4.9

    -6.4

    7.3

    9.0

    2.8

    3.8

    3.4

    1.7

    1.7

    0.8

    Public debt

    54.7

    58.0

    64.4

    61.5

    56.6

    56.9

    57.1

    57.5

    57.6

    57.6

    57.6

                           

    Broad money (% change)

    12.2

    0.0

    8.7

    15.2

    9.4

    2.1

    3.3

    4.2

    4.8

    4.6

    4.6

    Credit to the private sector

        (% change)

    -3.0

    6.7

    8.7

    12.4

    11.5

    6.6

    4.6

    7.1

    6.8

    7.2

    7.3

    Interest rate (%)

    4.1

    3.5

    5.3

    7.6

    7.7

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

                           

    Current account

    -5.7

    -9.1

    -14.0

    -0.8

    2.2

    -4.6

    -2.9

    -3.1

    -3.9

    -2.7

    -1.5

      CA excl. LHWP – II imports

    -2.6

    -6.8

    -10.9

    3.9

    10.4

    1.4

    1.4

    1.0

    -1.6

    -2.0

    -1.2

    FDI, net

    -1.3

    1.5

    -0.8

    1.9

    0.4

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.8

    -0.8

    External debt

    42.9

    42.0

    47.1

    47.0

    45.3

    45.6

    45.7

    46.0

    46.1

    46.2

    46.1

                           

    REER (% change)

    -6.0

    8.7

    -1.8

    -6.8

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    #N/A

    Source: Lesotho authorities, World Bank, and IMF staff calculations.

    1/ The fiscal year runs from April 1 to March 31.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Julie Ziegler

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/07/07/kingdom-of-lesotho-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-art-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. ⁠Mr. Hakan Fidan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. ⁠Mr. Hakan Fidan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, in the margins of the BRICS Summit.  The Secretary-General and the Minister discussed the strong partnership between the United Nations and Türkiye.  They also exchanged views on the war in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and the next round of meetings on Cyprus.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Agriculture Committee sets priorities for post-2027 CAP funding

    Source: European Parliament

    The Agriculture and Rural Development Committee is calling for an increased and standalone post-2027 CAP budget and a reduced administrative burden for farmers.

    In the current geopolitical context, EU farming that secures constant access to food is a critical component of EU security and defence policies, say MEPs. Their report on the future of agriculture and the post-2027 common agricultural policy (CAP) was adopted by the Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRI) Committee on Monday by 29 votes in favour, 9 votes against, and with 8 abstentions.

    MEPs therefore demand an increased and standalone CAP budget. The CAP must not be integrated with other funding areas in a single fund or become part of a total envelope used by member states for purposes other than agriculture.

    Direct income support for all active, professional farmers following an area-based model should be reinforced. To support rural development efficiently, the CAP’s second pillar must remain independent from cohesion policies. Voluntary coupled income support payments for sectors in difficulty should be maintained or increased, add MEPs.

    Simplification and digitalisation

    Reducing the administrative burden for farmers must be one of the CAP’s guiding principles. MEPs call for an incentive-based system for farmers to achieve environmental and social objectives. Eco-schemes should therefore remain voluntary and be accompanied by remuneration. The implementation of good agricultural and environmental conditions (GAEC) requirements must take existing farming practices into account.

    All farmers must have access to innovative and digital solutions that support sustainable agriculture, boost their income and reduce the administrative workload. To minimise stressful farm inspection procedures, monitoring of the use of CAP funds should be based on satellite imagery and self-certification, in a centralised, electronic reporting system, say MEPs.

    Generational renewal on farms

    Generational renewal is essential for the future of EU agriculture. Yet almost 58% of farmers in the EU are over 55 years of age while those aged under 35 represent only 6% of all farmers. The AGRI Committee therefore wants to increase financing from the CAP and raise the number of tax and loan incentives, so as to remove barriers to becoming a farmer.

    Harmonised EU labelling of agri-food products

    More than 70% of consumers in the EU decide what to buy based on the information on packaging. To prevent them from being misled, MEPs are calling for harmonised European labelling including information about the origin, quality and production standards of agri-food products.

    Quote

    Rapporteur Carmen Crespo Díaz (EPP, ES) said: “We need a CAP that strengthens food supply, supports rural communities, and empowers farmers through innovation, generational renewal, and fair market conditions. But we strongly reject any attempts to nationalise the CAP or merge its funding with other EU instruments. It must remain a true common policy with dedicated funds and independent pillars, ensuring equal support for all European farmers.”

    Follow a press conference with the rapporteur on Tuesday at 9:00 CEST.

    Next steps

    The report will now be put to a plenary vote, possibly during the 8‑11 September session.

    Background

    The European Commission plans to announce the 2028-2034 common agriculture policy proposal together with the next long‑term budget in mid-July 2025.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Metsola: “We continue to keep the memories of the victims of Srebrenica alive”

    Source: European Parliament

    President Metsola led members in remembering the victims of the Srebrenica genocide at the opening of the July plenary session in Strasbourg.

    30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide

    After opening the session, President Metsola led members in commemorating the 1995 Srebrenica genocide, where thousands of Bosnian Muslims were murdered or disappeared, and tens of thousands more were forcibly expelled from the enclave. Tragically many victims remain unidentified. MEPs paid homage to two survivors of the massacre, Lamasa and Almir Salihović, who were present in the hemicycle. “This House honours you and all survivors, just as we continue to keep the memories of the victims alive”, Metsola said. She went on to quote the words of the Srebrenica Prayer recited every year; “May mothers’ tears become prayers that Srebrenica never happens again”.

    Possible fast-tracking of European Climate Law revision

    The President announced a request by the Greens/EFA Group to apply the urgent procedure under Rule 170(5) of Parliament’s Rules of Procedure to the revision of the European Climate Law. The vote will take place on Tuesday.

    MEPs to debate alleged misuse of EU funds by members of the far right

    Statements on the alleged misuse of EU funds by members of the far right and measures to ensure institutional integrity are added as a fifth point on Wednesday afternoon, after the debate on stockpiling strategies. As a consequence, Wednesday’s sitting will be extended until 23:00.

    Requests by several committees to start negotiations with Council and Commission

    The Committees on Budgets, Economic and Monetary Affairs, Transport, Legal Affairs, Employment and Regional Development have decided to enter into interinstitutional negotiations, pursuant to Rule 72, paragraph 1 of the Rules of procedure, on the basis of the reports available on the plenary website.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Wednesday, 9 July 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    88 Objection pursuant to Rule 114(3): amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 to add certain countries to the list of high-risk third countries, and to remove other countries from that list     – Amendments Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 83 Objection pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3): Deforestation Regulation – list of countries presenting a low or high risk     – Amendments Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 25 Amending Regulation (EU) No 1026/2012 on certain measures for the purpose of the conservation of fish stocks in relation to countries allowing non-sustainable fishing
    Thomas Bajada (A10-0070/2025)      – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 48 Draft amending budget no 1/2025: entering the surplus of the financial year 2024
    Victor Negrescu (A10-0116/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 52 Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund: assistance to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and Moldova relating to floods that occurred in September 2024 and Bosnia and Herzegovina relating to floods that occurred in October 2024
    Andrzej Halicki (A10-0114/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 53 Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: Application EGF/2025/000 TA 2025 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission
    Jean-Marc Germain (A10-0115/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 27 Product safety and regulatory compliance in e-commerce and non-EU imports
    Salvatore De Meo (A10-0133/2025)      – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Thursday, 3 July 2025, 13:00 19 2023 and 2024 reports on Albania
    Andreas Schieder (A10-0106/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 18 2023 and 2024 reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina
    Ondřej Kolář (A10-0108/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 46 2023 and 2024 reports on North Macedonia
    Thomas Waitz (A10-0118/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 17 2023 and 2024 reports on Georgia
    Rasa Juknevičienė (A10-0110/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 28 Implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals in view of the 2025 High-Level Political Forum
    Robert Biedroń, Nikolas Farantouris (A10-0125/2025)      – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least, Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 60 The human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the urgent need to end Russian aggression: the situation of illegally detained civilians and prisoners of war, and the continued bombing of civilians     – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Friday, 4 July 2025, 13:00 80 Case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 81 Arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 82 Urgent need to protect religious minorities in Syria following the recent terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Situation of children on summer camp programmes for children from the Romanian diaspora, stranded at the border with Ukraine – P-002714/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002714/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gheorghe Cârciu (S&D)

    Every year, the Romanian Government organises, through the Department for Romanians Everywhere (Departamentul pentru Românii de Pretutindeni), which it finances, summer camp programmes for children from the Romanian diaspora, so as to preserve the national cultural identity by promoting education in Romanian and furthering knowledge of Romanian culture.

    This year, some 7 000 Romanian children and young people from the diaspora are expected to participate in cultural and educational activities under the Tabere Arc Programme, with over 5 000 of those children coming from historical Romanian communities in Ukraine, Moldova, Hungary, Albania and Serbia.

    On 1 July 2025, 200 children from Ukraine waited eight hours at the border between Ukraine and Romania (Porubne BCP) during a heatwave. Since this situation constituted a significant risk for the health of minors, can the Commission state:

    • 1.What steps can be taken to ensure that all Europeans crossing the border are awarded priority, and especially European children travelling in organised groups from a country outside the EU into the Member States, or vice versa?
    • 2.How it ensures that the authorities in the Member States cooperate effectively to prevent bottlenecks of this kind from occurring?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Thursday, 10 July 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    80 Case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 81 Arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 82 Urgent need to protect religious minorities in Syria following the recent terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 56 Amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 as regards obligations of economic operators concerning battery due diligence policies
    Antonio Decaro (A10-0134/2025)      – Amendments; rejection Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 16:00 37 Future of the EU biotechnology and biomanufacturing sector: leveraging research, boosting innovation and enhancing competitiveness
    Hildegard Bentele (A10-0123/2025)      – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 84 Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 12:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Circular economy: new EU rules to make the automotive sector more sustainable

    Source: European Parliament

    On Monday, the Environment and Internal Market Committees adopted their proposals on new EU rules to cover the entire vehicle lifecycle, from design to final end-of-life treatment.

    The regulation would apply to cars and vans one year after its entry into force (five years for buses, heavy-duty vehicles, trailers, motorcycles, quads, mopeds and minicars). There are some exceptions, for instance for special-purpose vehicles and vehicles of historical interest. MEPs also want to exempt vehicles designed and built for use by the armed forces, civil defence, fire and emergency medical services, and vehicles of special cultural interest.

    The new rules would require new vehicles to be designed so as to allow the easy removal of as many parts and components as possible by authorised treatment facilities, with a view to their replacement, reuse, recycling, remanufacturing or refurbishing, where technically possible. MEPs add that manufacturers should not hinder the removal and replacement of parts and components using software updates.

    MEPs also want the plastic used in each new vehicle type to contain minimum 20% recycled plastic, within six years of the rules’ entry into force. To ensure the necessary long-term perspective for the industry and unlock investment, they want manufacturers to meet a target of at least 25% within 10 years of entry into force, if enough recycled plastic is available at non-excessive prices. The Commission should introduce targets for recycled steel and aluminium and its alloys, following a feasibility study.

    Improving end-of-life management of vehicles and enforcement of rules

    Manufacturers would have extended producer responsibility, covering the cost of the collection and treatment of their vehicles that have reached the end-of-life stage. Specific requirements would apply for the removal of parts and components, of liquids, and of components containing gases, refrigerants, and hazardous substances before shredding. MEPs want national authorities to do more regular inspections of facilities involved in the handling and treatment of end-of-life vehicles, and to develop inspection plans to identify illegal activities.

    Strengthening export rules for used vehicles

    Used vehicles should only be exported if they are not considered end-of-life vehicles, the text says. MEPs propose to clarify the criteria determining when a used vehicle is an end-of-life vehicle, as well as the necessary documentation for customs authorities.

    Quote

    Co-rapporteurs Jens Gieseke (EPP, DE – ENVI) and Paulius Saudargas (EPP, LT – IMCO) said: “Today’s committee vote is a success: the Parliament compromise, supported by a broad majority, promotes a circular economy in the automotive sector. It advances resource security, protects the environment, and ensures sustainability. To avoid overburdening the industry, we secured feasibility with realistic targets, less red tape, and fair competition. A solid basis for the plenary vote in September.”

    Next steps

    The report, adopted by 79 votes in favour, 27 against and 11 abstentions, is expected to be adopted during the 8-11 September plenary session.

    Background

    On 13 July 2023, the Commission proposed a new regulation on circularity requirements for vehicle design and improved management of end-of-life vehicles, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal and the circular economy action plan.

    In 2023, 14.8 million motor vehicles were manufactured in the EU, while 12.4 million vehicles were registered. There are 285.6 million motor vehicles on EU roads and every year around 6.5 million vehicles come to the end of their lives.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Tuesday, 8 July 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    84 Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 12:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00 55 The role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season
    Borys Budka (A10-0079/2025)      – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 39 Temporary derogation from certain provisions of Regulations (EU) 2017/2226 and (EU) 2016/399
    Assita Kanko (A10-0082/2025)      – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 30 EU-Greenland and Denmark Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement: Implementing Protocol 2025-2030 (Resolution)
    Emma Fourreau (A10-0103/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 23 Financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2024
    Francisco Assis (A10-0112/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 44 Security of energy supply in the EU
    Beata Szydło (A10-0121/2025)      – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 19 2023 and 2024 reports on Albania
    Andreas Schieder (A10-0106/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 18 2023 and 2024 reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina
    Ondřej Kolář (A10-0108/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 46 2023 and 2024 reports on North Macedonia
    Thomas Waitz (A10-0118/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 17 2023 and 2024 reports on Georgia
    Rasa Juknevičienė (A10-0110/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Monday, 7 July 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    23 Financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2024
    Francisco Assis (A10-0112/2025) 
        – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00
    27 Product safety and regulatory compliance in e-commerce and non-EU imports
    Salvatore De Meo (A10-0133/2025) 
        – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Thursday, 3 July 2025, 13:00
    Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00
    Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00
    Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00
    Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU harmonisation of vitamin and mineral content – E-002582/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002582/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Laurent Castillo (PPE)

    The Member States and the Commission are currently discussing harmonising the maximum permitted levels of vitamins and minerals in food supplements and enriched foodstuffs, in accordance with Directive 2002/46/EC and Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006.

    If these levels are lowered, many food supplements could be reformulated.

    • 1.Has an impact assessment been carried out or is one ongoing?
    • 2.Have there been any official scientific reports of adverse reactions? If so, what reactions have been reported, concerning European citizens, and what are the Commission’s sources?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to lower the maximum levels of vitamins and minerals? If so, how does it intend to limit the impact of this harmonisation on companies in the sector, and how does it intend to regulate the import of food supplements produced outside the EU, which are often bought online and which do not always comply with European standards?

    Submitted: 26.6.2025

    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Zelenskyy’s propagandistic alert over alleged imminent Russian military operations in Europe – E-002623/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002623/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Petra Steger (PfE)

    On 22 July 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted an alarming message on the Telegram platform claiming that his government had evidence Russian leaders were preparing new military operations in Europe. He said he would inform his international partners about these supposed facts from the Ukrainian intelligence services. Joint defence decisions are already in progress, particularly with the EU and the UK.[1]

    This approach of confronting the European public with unsubstantiated war alerts must be seen as a targeted, propagandistic escalation strategy. It raises serious questions, especially as defence decisions do not fall within the EU’s remit and cannot be centrally coordinated by Brussels. Zelenskyy is presenting himself as a compliant EU centralist – seemingly in return for generous Western ‘war backing’ – who is willing to drag the entire continent into a regional conflict.

    • 1.Has the Commission received robust evidence from the Zelenskyy Government of alleged imminent Russian military operations in Europe?
    • 2.According to the information provided, which EU Member States are under threat and how will these military operations take place in the light of Russia’s stalling offensive in Ukraine?
    • 3.What common defence actions have been taken by the Commission and Ukraine and what legal basis does the Commission believe supports its competence in this regard?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.diepresse.com/19821031/ukraine-krieg-selenskij-warnt-vor-russischen-militaeroperationen-in-europa
    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ban on the export of live animals from Romania to the EU – P-002708/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002708/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI)

    Peste des petits ruminants (Ovine Rinderpest) is a viral disease that affects ruminants, sheep and goats, but does not affect humans, if and where it is present.

    After applying initial restrictions to Romania, the Commission recently announced the extension of the ban on exports of live animals from Romania to the EU, including their transit through EU countries, although there is no evidence to support this.

    I should point out that, in November 2024, I warned of a violation of Romanian law, the absence of the disease, and abuses of power by the authorities, and that, following my actions, Romania and the Commission decided not to apply any sanctions. However, the Romanian authorities have slaughtered around 600 000 sheep without any evidence for doing this, which is ruining Romanian farmers.

    If this peste is present, it has come from Ukraine because there are no checks on goods transiting Romania from Ukraine.

    • 1.What criteria underpin this decision, bearing in mind there is no official information on research into this disease in Romania? Might it not be that the aim is to ruin Romanian farmers?
    • 2.What criteria have been used to determine the size of the restricted area, protection area and monitoring area, in which farmers are prohibited from exporting live animals to other EU countries, even if no relevant research has been conducted into the disease, unlike in the other Member States?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The Comprehensive Programme for Palestinian Recovery and Resilience – E-002893/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Letter of Intent with the Palestinian Authority [1](PA) signed on 19 July 2024 consisted of: (i) a short-term emergency financial support of EUR 400 million of grants and loans, (ii) a multi-year comprehensive programme for Palestinian recovery and resilience.

    As part of the EU emergency support package to the PA of EUR 400 million, the Commission has disbursed EUR 382.5 million between July and November 2024. The pending tranche of EUR 17.5 million was disbursed in February 2025.

    All the disbursements were linked to PA actions identified in the Letter of Intent. The PA reached all prior actions from the Letter of Intent. The Commission and the PA have agreed on the Reform Matrix[2] that will be at the core of the comprehensive programme for Palestinian recovery and resilience.

    The Reform Matrix, anchored on the PA’s own reform agenda, will be the basis for future disbursements under the comprehensive programme.

    The multiannual comprehensive support programme for Palestinian recovery and resilience for 2025-2027, was announced on 14 April 2025 during the High-Level Political Dialogue between the EU and the PA. It consists of up to EUR 1.6 billion: a grant amount of up to EUR 1.196 billion as well as guarantees from the Commission to enable EUR 400 million loans by the European Investment Bank.

    The milestones for future disbursements will be identified in the framework of the financing agreement between the Commission and the PA to be signed in June 2025.

    The Commission is also in discussions with other donors and partners, as their active participation and involvement is crucial for the sustainability of the support to the PA.

    • [1] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/597ce07b-fb47-4bd2-b7ef-46c4401487de_en?filename=Letter%20of%20Intent%20-%20EU%20PA%20final.pdf.
    • [2] The Reform Matrix has been developed in close cooperation between the PA and the Commission and based on the PA’s own reform agenda. It includes important fiscal, economic and governance reforms, as well as social protection.
    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The EU energy network strategy: ideology, centralisation and the burden on consumers – E-002637/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002637/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Markus Buchheit (ESN)

    The latest report adopted by the European Parliament on the future of the EU electricity grid appears, at first glance, to promote necessary goals: modernisation, digitalisation and supply security. However, beneath the surface lies a massive subsidy-driven programme rooted in a unilateral climate ideology and advancing EU centralism.

    The financial cost is staggering: EUR 584 billion by 2030 and EUR 2.3 trillion by 2050, to be paid by consumers and industry. The energy agenda driven by Greens and Liberals in Parliament endangers our supply security, pushes prices ever higher, and further erodes the sovereignty of Member States in determining their national energy strategies.

    • 1.How does the Commission justify this centralised, top-down approach to energy infrastructure, which imposes immense costs on citizens and industry?
    • 2.What guarantees can it provide that this strategy respects Member States’ right to pursue technologically neutral and economically viable energy solutions?
    • 3.Does the Commission acknowledge the risk that such ideological planning from Brussels will undermine both public trust and energy affordability across the European Union?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Reshoring pharmaceutical production back to Europe and conditions for accessing the European market – E-001139/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the Union pharmaceutical legislation, the granting of an EU marketing authorisation for a medicine is based on a scientific opinion of the European Medicine Agency concluding that, following a thorough assessment of the medicine quality, efficacy and safety, the benefit-risk balance for the medicine is positive.

    There are no current plans to propose a local production quota as a prerequisite for obtaining a marketing authorisation from the Commission.

    The Commission fully agrees with the need to strengthen the manufacturing of medicines, in particular critical medicines, in the EU. This is why the Commission adopted a proposal for a Critical Medicines Act[1] on 11 March 2025.

    The proposed Act aims to support manufacturing and improve the availability of critical medicines in the EU. Key elements of the proposal include facilitating investments in EU’s manufacturing capacity for critical medicines through the identification of strategic projects and using public procurement to encourage reliable supply chains of critical medicines.

    In case of high dependency on a single or a limited number of countries, procurers would also have to use procurement requirements that support the production of critical medicines in the EU in line with EU international commitments.

    • [1] COM(2025) 102 final.
    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The European Green Deal and its unintended role in Europe’s deindustrialisation – E-002639/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002639/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Markus Buchheit (ESN)

    Despite claims that the European Green Deal would boost the EU’s industrial strength, its real impact has been the opposite[1]. Excessive regulations and soaring energy prices are driving manufacturers out of Europe, while subsidised Chinese electric vehicles are flooding our markets. Meanwhile, the US Inflation Reduction Act is attracting investment with competitive incentives. EU climate ideology is putting the survival of our industry at risk.

    • 1.Does the Commission admit that the European Green Deal has weakened the EU’s industry and helped expand the market share of non-EU, state-subsidised competitors, such as China?
    • 2.What concrete measures will the Commission take to protect the EU’s manufacturers from unfair global competition and internal regulatory disadvantages?
    • 3.Will the Commission revise its industrial and climate policy to prioritise industrial resilience, technological sovereignty and fair global trade conditions?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/italys-meloni-warns-eu-green-policies-risk-industrial-desertification-2025-05-17/?utm_source=chatgpt.com.
    Last updated: 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 8, 2025
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