Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak held a meeting with Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.
The parties discussed cooperation in the oil, gas, coal, electric power and nuclear industries. The discussion focused on the creation of a gas hub, the terms of Russian energy supplies to the Turkish market, and the construction of the Akkuyu NPP.
“Cooperation between Russia and Turkey in the energy sector is truly strategic. This is largely due to the principled sovereign line that Turkey pursues under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Against the backdrop of the turbulent situation in the region and the world as a whole, cooperation in the energy sector is of particular importance. The driving force of the Turkish economy is industry, which cannot develop without stable supplies of energy resources and electricity production. Russia has been and remains a reliable supplier of gas, oil and other natural resources to the Turkish market,” said Alexander Novak.
The Deputy Prime Minister invited Alparslan Bayraktar and the Turkish delegation to take part in the annual forum “Russian Energy Week”, which will be held from October 15 to 17 in Moscow.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Approximately 10% of citizens have made a clear choice in favor of non-cash payments. Almost the same number, 9%, pay exclusively in cash.
People value cashless services for their speed, simplicity and convenience. Most often they pay with a bank card (77%), in second place are mobile transfers and online banks (44%), in third place is the Fast Payment System (34%).
Cash payments are chosen primarily because they can be made anywhere and at any time. A quarter of the citizens surveyed use cash in everyday payments – most often in small shops, markets, gas stations or when paying for public transport. Half of the respondents keep a supply of banknotes and coins in case they cannot pay cashlessly, a third keep their savings in cash.
Read more in the materials sociological research on the website of the Bank of Russia.
Preview photo: PalSand / Shutterstock / Fotodom
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
Headline: Governor Stein, Secretary Lilley Attend Paris Air Show and Strengthen North Carolina’s Future in Flight
Governor Stein, Secretary Lilley Attend Paris Air Show and Strengthen North Carolina’s Future in Flight lsaito
Raleigh, NC
On the heels of the largest jobs commitment in North Carolina’s history, Governor Josh Stein, North Carolina Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina traveled to Paris to advocate for North Carolina with business leaders at the 55th edition of the Paris Air Show.
“North Carolina is first in flight, and we are the future of flight,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our state is the epicenter for aerospace innovation. Strengthening our relationship with international companies and expanding opportunity between North Carolina and France will allow our state to continue to soar to new horizons. We had a productive economic development trip telling the world why North Carolina is the best place to do business.”
“North Carolina’s network of businesses and strong economic infrastructure draw companies from across the world to invest in our state,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “The Paris Air Show has opened potential avenues for new companies to plant their roots in North Carolina and for existing companies to expand their operations as we continue to develop our state’s world-class aerospace ecosystem.”
The Paris Air Show is the world’s largest aerospace event that brings together companies and industry leaders from across the globe. The show boasts 2,500 exhibitors from 48 countries and 300,000 unique visitors.
North Carolina is home to approximately 400 aerospace companies that generate $88 billion in activity every year, including Airbus, a French company that employs more than 500 workers at its Kinston manufacturing facility. Last week, Governor Stein announced that JetZero will construct its new manufacturing hub at the Piedmont Triad International (PTI) Airport, bringing more than $4.7 billion and 14,000 jobs – the largest jobs commitment in state history.
JetZero represents one of several aerospace companies setting up shop at PTI, including Boom and HondaJet. North Carolina’s strong workforce continues to attract aerospace companies to the state and is growing with industry demand. Guilford Technical Community College has recently announced its own $35 million, 70,000-square-foot aviation training facility to train the next generation of aerospace employees with a groundbreaking set for this summer.
Over the last 10 years, 113 French companies announced projects in North Carolina, resulting in $439 million in investments and 1,200 new jobs in the state. More than 100 French companies operate in the state and employ 20,000 North Carolinians.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
1,500 jobs created at UK nuclear weapons headquarters as sector boasts above average wages
Thousands of high-skilled jobs and hundreds of apprenticeships have been created to help keep the United Kingdom protected around the clock, with newly published figures highlighting the economic benefits of the defence nuclear industry.
New figures reveal that 1,500 skilled roles have been created in the last year at the UK’s nuclear weapons technology centre AWE.
Government study shows that people working in defence nuclear industry receive 20% above average UK salary.
Defence Secretary visits top secret site as £15 billion investment in sovereign UK nuclear warhead supports the Plan for Change with nearly 10,000 jobs across the UK.
It comes as the government’s delivers a landmark £15 billion investment in this parliament into the renewal of the UK’s sovereign nuclear warhead – confirmed through the recent Strategic Defence Review – to keep the British people safe while supporting almost 10,000 UK jobs.
The figures from government analysis published today also show that average salaries in the defence nuclear industry reach £45,500 – 20% higher than the UK average.
Over the last year, 1,500 new skilled staff, and double the number of apprentices and graduates, have joined AWE in Aldermaston, Berkshire – the UK’s nuclear weapons technology centre – all vital to the success of the nuclear deterrent by playing a critical role in the development and maintenance of the nuclear warhead stockpile.
It comes as John Healey was the first Defence Secretary to visit AWE since 2018, and he hailed the economic growth impact for the local area, as AWE celebrates its 75th anniversary.
The AWE workforce of 9,500 staff, including 3,000 engineers and 1,500 scientists, demonstrates the defence nuclear sector as an engine for economic growth, backing the government’s Plan for Change. This milestone year reflects AWE’s crucial contribution to the UK’s independent nuclear deterrent – keeping a nuclear-armed submarine at sea continuously – ensuring the security of the nation and our NATO allies around the clock.
Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:
The nuclear weapons technology delivered at AWE keeps us all safe every minute of the day. The skilled men and women working here play a fundamental role in deterring global conflict and that cannot be underestimated.
However, our nuclear deterrent doesn’t just protect us, it also powers prosperity. From the design and development of the warhead in Aldermaston, to shipbuilding in Barrow and maintenance in Plymouth, to deployment for operations from Clyde, defence is an engine for growth. The Defence Nuclear Enterprise delivers on the Plan for Change by backing thousands of jobs across the country.
Through the Strategic Defence Review we are unshakeable in our commitment to maintaining our nuclear deterrent – it is the ultimate guarantor of our national security and the security of our NATO allies.
AWE is part of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) – the partnership of organisations that operate, maintain, renew and sustain the UK’s nuclear deterrent as part of a national endeavour which supports more than 48,000 jobs across the country – set to rise to 65,000 in the next decade.
Through the Nuclear Skills Task Force Skills Plan, nearly 4,000 early career starters are projected to have entered the wider nuclear sector over the last year, with the total number of graduate and apprenticeship roles in the sector aiming to double over the next 10 years.
During his visit, the Defence Secretary met with staff, scientists and apprentices to acknowledge the establishment’s legacy, celebrate current achievements, and highlight the importance of investing in future talent. AWE welcomed nearly 500 graduates, apprentices and placement students in 2024/25 – double the previous year – many of them from local communities.
The defence nuclear industry wage premium also brings prosperity to some of the most economically disadvantaged communities in the UK, with over half of those employed in the defence nuclear industry living in areas targeted for economic regeneration.
The visit comes after the SDR and Spending Review provided the commitment and funding for the UK to produce a new submarine every 18 months in future years. It follows the commitment to grow the UK’s attack submarine fleet to up to 12 under the AUKUS partnership.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Game changer for the nation
£900 million investment in major sporting events and grassroots sport.
Major sporting events and grassroots sport across the UK to benefit from over £900 million in funding, as part of government’s Plan for Change
More than £500 million to support delivery of world class major sporting events hosted in the UK, including UEFA EURO 2028, Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes Grand Départs 2027
At least £400 million to be invested in new and upgraded grassroots sport facilities in communities across the country
Villages, towns and cities across the UK are set to benefit from a transformational investment of more than £900 million in sport, which will support a pipeline of major international events and deliver new grassroots facilities that can drive economic growth and inspire people of all ages to get active.
The funding commitment, which was outlined in the Spending Review last week, has now been set out by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy.
It will see more than £500 million committed to supporting the delivery of a host of world class sporting events being held in the UK over the coming years, including:
The men’s and women’s Tour de France Grand Départs in 2027
Men’s UEFA EURO 2028 – alongside Ireland
The European Athletics Championships 2026 in Birmingham
These events are expected to deliver significant economic benefits, with EURO 2028 alone projected to generate up to £2.4 billion in socio-economic value across the UK.
Work is also continuing with the Home Nation football associations (FA)s and devolved administrations to develop the bid for the UK to host the Women’s FIFA World Cup in 2035.
In tandem at least £400 million will be invested in new and upgraded grassroots sport facilities that promote health, wellbeing and community cohesion. Work to remove the barriers to physical activity for under-represented groups, such as women and girls, people with disabilities, and ethnic minority communities will continue.
Already, government funding has helped local clubs from Ayrshire to Anglesey, Strangford to Somerset, build new pitches and changing rooms, install floodlights, solar panels and goalposts; supporting a range of sports including football and rugby.
Together, this strategic investment in sport will help to deliver on the government’s mission to kickstart economic growth by creating jobs, driving regional prosperity and encouraging visitors to the UK. It is also designed to reduce barriers to opportunity, bring communities together through shared national moments and showcase the best of the UK to the world.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, said:
Sport tells our national story in a way few other things can – uniting communities, inspiring millions, and showcasing our nation on the global stage.
This major backing for world-class events will drive economic growth across the country, delivering on our Plan for Change. Coupled with strong investment into grassroots sport, we’re creating a complete pathway to allow the next generation of sporting heroes to train and take part in sport in communities across the UK.
This investment is central to the government’s commitment to delivering major sporting events with pride and impact and stands alongside ongoing work with partners in the sport sector and across the UK. The pipeline of major events already secured includes this Summer’s Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026, the ICC T20 Cricket women’s and men’s World Cups (in 2026 and 2030 respectively), the Invictus Games 2027 in Birmingham, and many other elite continental and world championships.
Debbie Hewitt MBE, Chair of the UK and Ireland 2028 Board, said:
We welcome today’s announcement of significant investment in sport from the UK government, which marks a major boost to the successful delivery of UEFA EURO 2028. This commitment will not only help us stage a world-class tournament but also ensure that communities across the UK feel long-lasting benefits – from enhanced grassroots facilities to stronger local economies.
UEFA EURO 2028 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and with this investment, we are better placed than ever to deliver an event with pride, purpose and impact.
Nick Webborn, Chair of UK Sport, said:
We welcome the government’s ongoing commitment to hosting the Tour De France, Tour De France Femmes and Euro 2028. These events have huge potential to drive economic growth, bring people together and inspire the next generation in communities across the UK.
We believe that live sport is a fundamental part of this country’s social fabric. We are really excited to be working with the government and support their commitment to secure the pipeline of big events beyond 2028 to ensure we can continue to reach, inspire and unite people in every corner of the country.
Chair of Sport England, Chris Boardman said:
The government’s continued investment into grassroots sport facilities is welcome news; the nation’s pitches, pools and leisure centres play a pivotal role in keeping people moving.
With every £1 invested in community sport and physical activity generating £4.20 in value for our economy, supporting grassroots facilities isn’t just good for public health — it’s a smart investment in the nation’s social and economic wellbeing.
Notes to Editors
On grassroots funding, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport will work closely with sporting bodies and local leaders to establish what each community needs and then set out further plans.
UNESCO expresses its grave concern over the increasing threats affecting the World Heritage site ‘Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra’, following the attack on 10 June 2025 by the Russian Federation. This damage occurred amidst a surge of attacks on numerous Ukrainian cities, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to cultural and educational institutions.
Together with the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine, UNESCO representative in Ukraine visited the Saint-Sophia Cathedral to assess the situation and discuss potential support for an in-depth structural analysis and emergency conservation measures. This preliminary inspection indicates that the eastern façade of Saint-Sophia Cathedral has been damaged. This iconic monument, dating back to the early 11th century, is a cornerstone of Eastern Christian architecture and monumental art.
UNESCO condemns any attack that could threaten World Heritage sites and reiterates the obligations of States Parties under the 1972 World Heritage Convention and the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, which prohibits any deliberate actions that may cause damage to cultural and natural heritage located within the territory of another State Party.
Repeated attacks have led the World Heritage Committee to inscribe three Ukrainian sites on the List of World Heritage in Danger – located in Kyiv, Lviv and Odesa – recognizing both the risk of direct strikes and the cumulative impact of shockwaves.
Since 2022 and with the support of Japan, UNESCO has provided assistance to the National Conservation Area of Saint Sophia, to develop an emergency preparedness plan and advanced digital documentation of the buildings, and provide training of conservation staff in emergency response. Furthermore, through its World Heritage Fund, UNESCO supports the restoration of the Cathedral’s monumental paintings, as part of its broader cultural emergency response in Ukraine.
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
Miranda Devine: FBI emails revealed to The Post expose Biden DOJ’s obsession with piling on Trump charges June 18, 2025 New York Post
Internal FBI emails reveal that rogue agents and prosecutors in the Biden DOJ were looking for ways to pile on new criminal charges against Donald Trump over the Jan. 6 Capitol riot — this time over his involvement with the J6 prisoner choir, based on a single partisan news article.
The 2023 emails obtained by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and revealed exclusively to The Post are an example of the nitpicking malice of anti-Trump lawfare that tainted special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation, during Joe Biden’s presidency.
“Can we do some work to nail down Trump’s role in this,” writes prosecutor JP Cooney to DOJ colleagues on March 8, 2023, in an email with the subject line “J6 Prisoner Choir/DJT” and an attached Forbes.com article titled “Trump Collaborates On Song With Jan. 6 Defendants.”
Cooney was a deputy special counsel who worked on both the Robert Mueller and Smith get-Trump special counsel investigations.
‘Agent Zero’
“According to this Forbes article, Trump recorded the Pledge of Allegiance at MAL [Mar a Lago] and Kash Patel [now FBI director] and Ed Henry [a former Fox News host] were also involved,” Cooney wrote in the email chain.
“The profits are routed to an LLC run by Henry, and proceeds are intended for families of incarcerated J6 defendants — but there is apparently a vetting process that excludes families of defendants who assaulted police officers.
“I asked Ahmed [likely prosecutor Ahmed Baset, who was fired earlier this month] to preserve this last night. I’ll talk to Maria/Erin and Julia about doing some follow up here to nail down Trump’s role.”
Cooney also instructed colleagues to look at starting “some process on Ed Henry’s LLC,” presumably a legal process such as a subpoena, search warrant or other court-authorized actions to gather evidence.
His email was forwarded to eight agents and DOJ staff, including notorious anti-Trump FBI Special Agent Walter Giardina, who responded two days later to say he was investigating the claims in the Forbes article about Trump and the J6 prisoner choir: “Esther and I are working on this today. We’re going to put together our findings at 2 and get something to you shortly after that.”
Giardina was “Agent Zero” in a lot of overzealous FBI actions involving Trump and his allies, including the investigation of Trump White House adviser Dr. Peter Navarro on contempt of Congress charges for refusing to appear before the House committee investigating the J6 riot.
It was Giardina’s FBI team that arrested Navarro as he was about to board a plane at Reagan National Airport in 2022, put him in leg irons and threw him in jail instead of simply issuing a summons for him to come to court, as the federal judge overseeing the case later said while criticizing the heavy-handedness.
Giardina was also significantly involved in Operation Crossfire Hurricane (the debunked Russia collusion investigation against Trump), Mueller’s investigation and cases involving Trump allies Dan Scavino and Roger Stone, as well as the Hillary Clinton emails case.
According to Grassley, Giardina was an “initial recipient of the Steele Dossier” and falsely claimed that the bogus Clinton campaign smear sheet against Trump was corroborated as “true.”
Giardina also “electronically wiped the laptop he was assigned while working for Special Counsel Mueller outside of established protocol for record preservation, raising the possibility that he destroyed government records.”
Whistleblown away
Whistleblowers have told Grassley that Giardina “openly stated his desire to investigate Trump, even if it meant false predication,” because of his hostility to the past and future president.
Grassley believes this email chain is another “clear example” of how the federal law enforcement apparatus was weaponized to try to “get Trump” at all costs.
“Instead of focusing on DOJ and FBI’s core law enforcement responsibilities,” Grassley told The Post, “partisan prosecutors and agents were surfing the web to find any shred of information they could use to spin another baseless case against Trump. Their actions are a disservice to Americans, who pay their salaries and depend on DOJ and FBI to keep them safe…”
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
St. Petersburg, June 19 /Xinhua/ — “Their Feat is Immortal, Their Memory is Eternal” is the title of a joint photo exhibition dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, which opened in St. Petersburg on June 19. The photo exhibition, organized jointly by China’s Xinhua News Agency and Russia’s TASS News Agency, was opened by the heads of the agencies Fu Hua and Andrei Kondrashov.
The exhibition aims to promote the preservation of historical memory and, on this basis, continue the traditions of friendship between the two countries and their peoples, said Xinhua Director General Fu Hua. According to him, Xinhua intends to further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with TASS and explore the possibility of holding new events within the framework of cultural and humanitarian exchanges.
A. Kondrashov recalled that cooperation between TASS and Xinhua has a long history. As he emphasized, holding a joint photo exhibition not only once again reflects the high level of bilateral cooperation, but also proves that the two agencies preserve the memory of the common history of Russia and China.
“On the one hand, these are such great photographs, the great people they depict, and the great events they tell, that it is awkward and uncomfortable to stand with your back to them. But, on the other hand, it is also symbolic, because this is the generation that really stands behind us and reminds us that we are obliged to preserve the memory of those times,” said the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, who was present at the opening of the exhibition, adding that the Russian side will firmly stand on China’s side and protect historical memory together with it.
The exhibition presents vivid photographic evidence of how, during the World Anti-Fascist War, the peoples of China and Russia fought side by side, helped each other, and made the two countries’ historic contribution to the defense of peace and the progress of humanity.
On the same day, Fu Hua met with A. Kondrashov. The parties confirmed their readiness to further deepen practical cooperation. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ST. PETERSBURG, June 19 (Xinhua) — The 19th General Assembly of the Organization of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA) opened in St. Petersburg on Thursday. During the two-day event, representatives of news agencies from the Asia-Pacific region (APR) will hold in-depth discussions on how news agencies can respond to global changes and technological challenges.
“Today, objective, timely information is in high demand for strengthening trust and mutual understanding between countries and peoples. Your largest association of news agencies on the planet has been creating a significant part of the global news flow for many years now, enjoying the attention of a multi-million audience,” says the greeting to the General Assembly from Russian President Vladimir Putin, which was read at the opening ceremony by the press secretary of the Russian President Dmitry Peskov.
“I am confident that constructive, meaningful discussions will take place during the General Assembly, and new, promising joint projects will be outlined that will serve the further development of mutually beneficial international cooperation,” says V. Putin’s greeting.
In his welcoming speech, Fu Hua, Director General of Xinhua News Agency, noted that the Asia-Pacific region is the engine of economic globalization, the center of world economic growth, the pillar of global development and stability, the outpost of international cooperation, and plays an important role in countering global challenges.
Xinhua calls on Asia-Pacific news agencies to work together to enhance mutual trust, promote inclusiveness, and advance cooperation and mutual benefit, Fu Hua said. He pledged that Xinhua will effectively fulfill its responsibilities, deepen partnerships with OANA member agencies, and develop multilateral mechanisms such as the World Media Summit, the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum, and the China-Central Asia News Agency Forum to write new chapters in the history of exchanges among news agencies.
TASS Director General Andrey Kondrashov pointed out that today’s world is going through a key period of profound changes and transformation of the information environment, when cyber threats and fake information undermine audience trust in the media. According to him, in-depth exchanges and cooperation between Asia-Pacific news agencies, joint discussions on the use of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and big data, accelerate the transformation of the media industry, which not only helps the development of the news agencies themselves, but is also of great importance for protecting the security and prosperity of the region and the entire world.
UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications Melissa Fleming said in a video message that in today’s turbulent world, news organizations and their staff face many serious challenges. Strengthening dialogue and exchanges between media outlets is especially important in this context, she said.
Director General of the Vietnam News Agency Vu Viet Trang told Xinhua that the world is changing rapidly today and news agencies must improve the efficiency of information delivery through technological innovations while ensuring accuracy and speed. At the same time, news agencies in the Asia-Pacific region must strengthen their voice in addressing regional and international issues, “this is the overall mission of news agencies in the Asia-Pacific region,” Vu Viet Trang stressed.
Deputy Director of the Kazakh Presidential Television and Radio Complex Askar Dzhaldinov told Xinhua that the world’s media are currently facing many common challenges. He noted that the media should not only fulfill their responsibilities in disseminating information, but also actively influence social development and the implementation of state policy.
As part of the General Assembly, its participants visited the OANA photo exhibition, which included photographs by Xinhua.
OANA is a regional media organization that unites 41 news agencies from 33 countries. Its predecessor was the Organization of Asian News Agencies, founded in Thailand in December 1961. –0–
When a renewable energy developer announces a new project, there’s one big question mark – how will nearby communities react?
Community pushback has scuttled many renewables projects. Sometimes, communities are angry landowners hosting infrastructure will be paid, but neighbours and those further afield may not.
As a result, renewable projects often involve schemes where the developer gives funding or resources to local community initiatives.
Australia has dozens of these schemes, with many more to come as the clean energy transition accelerates. The Clean Energy Council estimates developers contribute about A$1,050 to communities for every megawatt of wind and about $850 for solar.
Renewable developers usually structure community-benefit schemes in one of three ways:
community funds, where a developer offers a one-time or ongoing payment for local infrastructure such as roads, services or community projects
in-kind benefits, such as investment in local sports fields or tourism initiatives
local ownership models, such as offering community members preferential access to shares in the company or a community co-ownership model of the project.
In Australia, a number of community schemes are already established or planned.
More are on their way. The Queensland government has introduced laws which require wind and solar farm developers enter into community benefit agreements.
Worldwide, offshore wind farms have for many years involved community benefit sharing. Australia is very likely to follow suit as this industry emerges.
Developers will sometimes set up more targeted neighbour payment schemes where funding is given to nearby landowners.
What are they for?
There are three reasons why benefit sharing can be a good idea overall. They are:
1. Impact on locals: solar farms take up large areas of land, while wind farms on land or sea draw the eye and can compete with other uses of the space. Community benefit schemes can help counterbalance these impacts.
2. Benefits are centralised: solar, wind and battery developments generate significant economic value. But this is largely captured by the developer. Benefit schemes can make residents feel the deal is fairer.
3. Acceptance: change of any kind is often hard. Offering incentives to towns and communities can make the change easier.
Payments to communities hosting renewable projects can look like bribes if not done carefully. myphotobank.com.au/Shutterstock
Straying into bribery?
The definition of a bribe is a benefit which influences or intends to influence a person to violate their role-based obligations. Offering money to a police officer to avoid losing your licence would count as a bribe.
Community benefit sharing isn’t a bribe in a strict legal sense. But the payments can resemble bribes if they influence community members to accept the new development. Improving community acceptance is often a central goal of such schemes.
The accusation is common. In the United Kingdom, researchers observe these schemes are regularly seen:
as an attempt by local developers to ‘bribe’ local communities to ‘buy’ support for their wind farm development.
Community members may decry a scheme as a “paltry bribe” or “shut up candy”. Some insist their “principles are not for sale”.
you don’t just turn up in a community and say, don’t worry, we’ll buy you a new rugby pitch […] because it really does look like you’re trying to buy them off.
But do local communities have obligations which accepting a renewables project might violate?
As part of a democracy, residents have civic obligations to make public-spirited decisions, evaluating policies and developments based not on self-interest but in a principled way.
This is why it’s illegal to pay someone to vote for a particular candidate in an election, for instance.
Offering money for community initiatives isn’t intrinsically wrong. As a community objector to a wind farm proposal put it:
Of course it is a relevant planning consideration if a wind power company is offering to pour significant sums of money into a community for the life of a wind farm […] Why should that not be recognised as a good thing?
But any economic boon to a town must be considered alongside other important concerns, rather than wiping them away.
If these schemes operate by influencing citizens to ignore their civic duties, that’s intrinsically wrong. Worse still, it risks a backlash from offended community members.
In the worst cases, benefit sharing operates as a pay-off, where uneasy communities are given money to reduce their resistance.
Offshore wind farm developers overseas often set up community benefit schemes. Tupungato/Shutterstock
Achieving fairness, avoiding bribery
The solutions are straightfoward: design these schemes strategically so they are fair and avoid eroding civic obligations. Here are four aims:
1. Minimise self-interest. Schemes should avoid large up-front payments and focus on in-kind benefits.
2. Respect the community. Employ and contract local staff, keep the community informed and respond transparently to complaints.
3. Encourage community involvement. Big renewable projects should stack up on energy, environmental, economic and community grounds. Robust and genuine community consultation should be used when designing any benefit scheme.
4. Ensure integrity. Development and implementation of any scheme should be genuine, transparent and accountable.
Getting it right
As climate change intensifies, Australia’s clean energy transition has a clear moral urgency. But this cannot be done by steamrolling local residents or buying them off with cash for community projects.
When community benefit schemes are sensibly designed with local input, it will boost both climate action and civic legitimacy.
Hugh Breakey receives funding from the Blue Economy CRC. This research was funded through the project ‘Pre-conditions for the Development of Offshore Wind Energy in Australia’ by the Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre.
Charles Sampford receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Professional Services Council and the Blue Economy CRC.
Larelle Bossi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
When a renewable energy developer announces a new project, there’s one big question mark – how will nearby communities react?
Community pushback has scuttled many renewables projects. Sometimes, communities are angry landowners hosting infrastructure will be paid, but neighbours and those further afield may not.
As a result, renewable projects often involve schemes where the developer gives funding or resources to local community initiatives.
Australia has dozens of these schemes, with many more to come as the clean energy transition accelerates. The Clean Energy Council estimates developers contribute about A$1,050 to communities for every megawatt of wind and about $850 for solar.
Renewable developers usually structure community-benefit schemes in one of three ways:
community funds, where a developer offers a one-time or ongoing payment for local infrastructure such as roads, services or community projects
in-kind benefits, such as investment in local sports fields or tourism initiatives
local ownership models, such as offering community members preferential access to shares in the company or a community co-ownership model of the project.
In Australia, a number of community schemes are already established or planned.
More are on their way. The Queensland government has introduced laws which require wind and solar farm developers enter into community benefit agreements.
Worldwide, offshore wind farms have for many years involved community benefit sharing. Australia is very likely to follow suit as this industry emerges.
Developers will sometimes set up more targeted neighbour payment schemes where funding is given to nearby landowners.
What are they for?
There are three reasons why benefit sharing can be a good idea overall. They are:
1. Impact on locals: solar farms take up large areas of land, while wind farms on land or sea draw the eye and can compete with other uses of the space. Community benefit schemes can help counterbalance these impacts.
2. Benefits are centralised: solar, wind and battery developments generate significant economic value. But this is largely captured by the developer. Benefit schemes can make residents feel the deal is fairer.
3. Acceptance: change of any kind is often hard. Offering incentives to towns and communities can make the change easier.
Payments to communities hosting renewable projects can look like bribes if not done carefully. myphotobank.com.au/Shutterstock
Straying into bribery?
The definition of a bribe is a benefit which influences or intends to influence a person to violate their role-based obligations. Offering money to a police officer to avoid losing your licence would count as a bribe.
Community benefit sharing isn’t a bribe in a strict legal sense. But the payments can resemble bribes if they influence community members to accept the new development. Improving community acceptance is often a central goal of such schemes.
The accusation is common. In the United Kingdom, researchers observe these schemes are regularly seen:
as an attempt by local developers to ‘bribe’ local communities to ‘buy’ support for their wind farm development.
Community members may decry a scheme as a “paltry bribe” or “shut up candy”. Some insist their “principles are not for sale”.
you don’t just turn up in a community and say, don’t worry, we’ll buy you a new rugby pitch […] because it really does look like you’re trying to buy them off.
But do local communities have obligations which accepting a renewables project might violate?
As part of a democracy, residents have civic obligations to make public-spirited decisions, evaluating policies and developments based not on self-interest but in a principled way.
This is why it’s illegal to pay someone to vote for a particular candidate in an election, for instance.
Offering money for community initiatives isn’t intrinsically wrong. As a community objector to a wind farm proposal put it:
Of course it is a relevant planning consideration if a wind power company is offering to pour significant sums of money into a community for the life of a wind farm […] Why should that not be recognised as a good thing?
But any economic boon to a town must be considered alongside other important concerns, rather than wiping them away.
If these schemes operate by influencing citizens to ignore their civic duties, that’s intrinsically wrong. Worse still, it risks a backlash from offended community members.
In the worst cases, benefit sharing operates as a pay-off, where uneasy communities are given money to reduce their resistance.
Offshore wind farm developers overseas often set up community benefit schemes. Tupungato/Shutterstock
Achieving fairness, avoiding bribery
The solutions are straightfoward: design these schemes strategically so they are fair and avoid eroding civic obligations. Here are four aims:
1. Minimise self-interest. Schemes should avoid large up-front payments and focus on in-kind benefits.
2. Respect the community. Employ and contract local staff, keep the community informed and respond transparently to complaints.
3. Encourage community involvement. Big renewable projects should stack up on energy, environmental, economic and community grounds. Robust and genuine community consultation should be used when designing any benefit scheme.
4. Ensure integrity. Development and implementation of any scheme should be genuine, transparent and accountable.
Getting it right
As climate change intensifies, Australia’s clean energy transition has a clear moral urgency. But this cannot be done by steamrolling local residents or buying them off with cash for community projects.
When community benefit schemes are sensibly designed with local input, it will boost both climate action and civic legitimacy.
Hugh Breakey receives funding from the Blue Economy CRC. This research was funded through the project ‘Pre-conditions for the Development of Offshore Wind Energy in Australia’ by the Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre.
Charles Sampford receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Professional Services Council and the Blue Economy CRC.
Larelle Bossi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Ottawa, Ontario, June 19, 2025—The Canadian International Trade Tribunal today determined that there is a reasonable indication that the dumping of certain carbon or alloy steel wire from China, Chinese Taipei, India, Italy, Malaysia, Portugal, Spain, Thailand, Türkiye and Vietnam has caused injury to the domestic industry.
The Tribunal’s inquiry was conducted pursuant to the Special Import Measures Act as a result of the initiation of a dumping investigation by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). The CBSA will continue its investigation and, by July 21, 2025, will issue a preliminary determination.
The Tribunal is an independent quasi-judicial body that reports to Parliament through the Minister of Finance. It hears cases on dumped and subsidized imports, safeguard complaints, complaints about federal government procurement and appeals of customs and excise tax rulings. When requested by the federal government, the Tribunal also provides advice on other economic, trade and tariff matters.
PM meeting with Prime Minister of Bahrain: 19 June 2025
The Prime Minister welcomed His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain to Downing Street today.
The Prime Minister welcomed His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain to Downing Street today.
The leaders reflected on the strength of the UK-Bahrain relationship, and welcomed the UK becoming a full member of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) today. The agreement will deepen trilateral cooperation with Bahrain and the United States on regional security at a critical time, both agreed.
The Prime Minister also welcomed the signing of the Strategic Investment and Collaboration Partnership, building on the two-way investment partnership between the countries, and how this will unlock new investment, growth and jobs into the UK, delivering on the Plan for Change.
The leaders also underscored the importance of the new Defence Cooperation Accord between the two countries, deepening joint military training and building on the two nations’ strong naval ties.
Highlighting the strength of the 200-year relationship between both nations, the leaders looked forward to further cooperation, including trade negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Turning to the situation in the Middle East, the leaders called for de-escalation and both agreed on the need for enduring and closer relationships across the region to support stability.
The Prime Minister and Crown Prince looked forward to speaking again soon.
AUSTIN, TX, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Telnyx, a leading provider of voice, messaging, and connectivity solutions for AI-powered communications, today shared that Poland-based startup IvoryLab has significantly advanced the development of its AI voice automation platform through the Telnyx AI Accelerator. The program, which provides up to $20,000 in credits, technical enablement, and priority support, empowered the IvoryLab team to move from MVP to production-ready with speed and confidence.
IvoryLab is building a scalable voice automation platform that helps businesses handle both inbound and outbound customer calls using AI-powered voice assistants. The platform supports use cases across hospitality, real estate, health and wellness, and food delivery, with functionality ranging from customer service to outbound lead qualification.
As a small team with a big roadmap, removing cost constraints allowed IvoryLab to experiment, break things, and refine their platform without hesitation. Marcel Karpiak, co-founder of IvoryLab, shared, “The Accelerator will definitely help us to build a product which is the closest to perfection…Now we can test freely and not worry about the cost as much.”
The IvoryLab platform is built on Telnyx APIs and infrastructure, enabling rapid prototyping and seamless call orchestration. The team commented on Telny’s intuitive yet powerful developer experience—designed to support both fast iteration and long-term scalability. “We really like the Telnyx interface. Everything is super intuitive,” said Karpiak. He also noted that while other tools felt overly simplified, Telnyx struck the right balance between usability and professional-grade depth.
IvoryLab dove head first into Telnyx AI assistants, and since joining the program, they have:
Created 11 AI assistants
Conducted 464 conversations
Logged 745 minutes (12.5 hours) of conversation usage
With potential STT integrations that better support Polish, the company anticipates these figures to triple.
“The Accelerator enabled us to move from MVP to a production grade AI solution faster,” said Adrian Marcinkowski, founder of IvoryLab. The partnership with the Telnyx AI Accelerator has helped them think bigger and build more confidently.
“We designed the AI Accelerator to help teams like IvoryLab iterate quickly and get real products into users’ hands,” said Ian Reither, COO at Telnyx. “It’s been exciting to watch their progress, and we’re looking forward to seeing other emerging use cases across the Accelerator portfolio.”
IvoryLab plans to launch its platform commercially within the next few weeks, targeting subscription-based deployments across Europe.
ABOUT TELNYX
Telnyx is a global connectivity platform that provides carrier-grade voice, messaging, and real-time communication APIs to developers and enterprises. As the infrastructure layer for AI-powered communication, Telnyx helps businesses build and scale next-generation experiences—from AI voice assistants to global contact centers. Learn more at telnyx.com.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, led Canada’s presence at the 55th International Paris Air Show.
Minister Joly showcased Canada’s highly innovative aerospace sector and promoted the country as a top destination for global aerospace investment—at a time when Canada is seeking to help build trusted, reliable partnerships that support its companies and workers.
Minister Joly met with CEOs of Canadian and global aerospace businesses as well as with key provincial partners, including François Legault, Premier of Quebec; Christine Fréchette, Quebec Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy; and the Honourable Victor Fedeli, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
During the visit, Minister Joly underscored Canada’s world-class aerospace sector, with its strong workforce and cutting-edge innovation, and highlighted that the government is committed to making major investments in the economy and supporting Canada’s defence sector. These investments will generate jobs and opportunities throughout Canada’s industrial base, strengthen domestic capabilities, and diversity Canada’s international partnerships. She also advocated for workers across other Canadian industries, including steel and aluminum, which are well positioned to be better integrated into global aerospace supply chains.
A highlight of the visit was LOT Polish Airlines’ announcement of its intention to purchase up to 84 Canadian-built Airbus A220 aircraft, made in Mirabel, Quebec. This is a major win for Canadian workers. The deal will create many high-paying jobs and highlights Canada’s desire for deeper industrial and commercial ties with Europe at a time when cooperation with reliable partners is more important than ever.
Minister Joly welcomed France’s announcement of its purchase of new GlobalEye aircraft from Saab, which uses Bombardier’s Canadian-designed, -developed and -built Global 6500 platform.
In addition, Minister Joly welcomed the announcement of $87.4 million for the latest projects from the Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT), a pan-Canadian, industry-led network focused on accelerating sustainable innovation in aviation.
Prior to the Paris Air Show, Minister Joly represented Canada at VivaTech 2025, Europe’s largest startup and tech event. Canada was Country of the Year at the event, and its participation was a celebration of our leadership in AI and new technologies that the world needs.
Reacting to news that a court in Georgia has ordered five independent civil society organizations to submit highly sensitive information about beneficiaries protected through their human rights work, as well as information on their activities and grants, to the Anti-Corruption Bureau, Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, said:
“This order is yet another example of the authorities’ escalating repression of the rights to freedom of expression and association in Georgia and weaponization of the country’s justice system and the Anti-Corruption Bureau to target and crackdown on human rights defenders, activists and independent civil society organizations. Targeting those who fight for justice and combat corruption is contrary to Georgia’s international human rights obligations including the rights to freedom of expression and association.
Targeting those who fight for justice and combat corruption is contrary to Georgia’s international human rights obligations including the rights to freedom of expression and association
Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia
“Forcing non-governmental organizations to hand over sensitive information, including their beneficiaries’ names, photographs, banking records and health data limits the independence and autonomy of the organizations, and grants disproportionate governmental control over the operations of the organizations. It places impingements on the crucial work of Georgia’s vibrant civil society and human rights defenders who protect those who have suffered from torture, sexual violence, corruption or other human rights violations. This blatant violation of the rights to privacy and freedom of expression and association must stop.
“The authorities must immediately revert the order, repeal the repressive legislation which targets the independence and autonomy of civil society organizations, and guarantee and ensure that human rights defenders and activists can work free from fear of retaliation.”
Background
An order by the Tbilisi City Court, dated 12 June 2025, granted the Anti-Corruption Bureau the right to demand from five civil society organizations – Transparency International Georgia, Sapari, Civil Society Foundation, Economic Policy Research Center and Georgia’s Future Academy – vast amounts of programmatic, administrative, financial and personal information, including on all their contractors and individual beneficiaries, from 1 January 2024 to 10 June 2025.
The order invokes the Law on Grants, the Law on Political Associations of Citizens and the Law on Combatting Corruption, all recently amended by the ruling Georgian Dream party in its campaign aimed at curtailing the rights to freedom of association and expression and other human rights.
The NGOs have condemned the move and vowed to challenge it in court.
Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senators Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia) and Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona) introduced The Dads Matter Act of 2025, which would direct the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to raise awareness about father inclusion and engagement and to provide state-level guidance aimed at strengthening the role of fathers in supporting healthy mothers and babies.
“As an OBGYN for more than 25 years, I know firsthand the challenges facing mothers, and how important a stable support system can be to both pediatric and maternal health outcomes,” said Senator Marshall. “Fathers play such a critical role in their households, and I am proud to support legislation that champions their role as providers, spouses, and caregivers.”
“Georgia’s maternal mortality rate is a crisis that we must address with every tool at our disposal. That includes redoubling our efforts to uplift the role of fathers in keeping their family healthy during pregnancy and early childhood,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Now is the time to spread awareness about the critical role of fathers in improving maternal health outcomes and creating thriving families and communities.”
“Too many women in Arizona die from pregnancy-related causes. This bill helps reverse this trend by recognizing that engaged fathers are part of the solution,” said Senator Gallego. When dads show up, maternal health outcomes are better, babies are healthier, and families are stronger.”
The Dads Matter Act of 2025 would also direct HHS to issue guidance to states to incentivize maternity care providers to offer training and education to health care professionals about the benefits of including and engaging fathers in the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum process. Additionally, it would direct the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report to Congress that describes the results and effectiveness of this legislation.
The Commission emphasises the need for large financial institutions to disclose alignment with Taxonomy criteria. The Commission intends to address issues with the methodology of the Green Asset Ratio as part of the planned review of the Taxonomy Disclosures Delegated Act[1]. A draft amending Delegated Regulation was published for consultation between 26 February and 26 March 2025[2].
Financial institutions are also expected to benefit from the possibility to disclose economic activities meeting only certain criteria, like climate change mitigation.
This is reflected in the proposed amendment to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive to revise reporting rules and better reflect the transition efforts introducing disclosures of partial alignment with the Taxonomy.
In view of meeting the environment and climate objectives, the 8th Environment Action Programme Mid-Term Review[3] calls for collaborative efforts to render laws effective and promote clean solutions.
Simplification, modernisation, digitalisation and funding are pivotal. Successful implementation hinges on overcoming challenges to ensure stakeholder buy-in, showcasing the benefits of the green transition.
The Commission commits to ongoing dialogue with Member States, fostering understanding of climate risks and opportunities and building support for effective policies. This approach precedes legislative revisions, adhering to evidence-based policy-making aligned with Better Regulation guidelines.
In addition, inclusive dialogues with stakeholders ensure that policies enshrined in the European Green Deal contribute to a just and competitive transition.
Notably, the Clean Industrial Deal[4] that facilitates achievement of EU climate goals by incentivising industry decarbonisation, was supported by stakeholder initiatives like the Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal[5] and Clean Transition Dialogues[6], tailored to sectors such as automotive, steel, metals and chemicals.
[1] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/2178 of 6 July 2021 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2020/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council by specifying the content and presentation of information to be disclosed by undertakings subject to Articles 19a or 29a of Directive 2013/34/EU concerning environmentally sustainable economic activities, and specifying the methodology to comply with that disclosure obligation OJ L 443, 10.12.2021, p. 9-67.
The Commission emphasises the need for large financial institutions to disclose alignment with Taxonomy criteria. The Commission intends to address issues with the methodology of the Green Asset Ratio as part of the planned review of the Taxonomy Disclosures Delegated Act[1]. A draft amending Delegated Regulation was published for consultation between 26 February and 26 March 2025[2].
Financial institutions are also expected to benefit from the possibility to disclose economic activities meeting only certain criteria, like climate change mitigation.
This is reflected in the proposed amendment to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive to revise reporting rules and better reflect the transition efforts introducing disclosures of partial alignment with the Taxonomy.
In view of meeting the environment and climate objectives, the 8th Environment Action Programme Mid-Term Review[3] calls for collaborative efforts to render laws effective and promote clean solutions.
Simplification, modernisation, digitalisation and funding are pivotal. Successful implementation hinges on overcoming challenges to ensure stakeholder buy-in, showcasing the benefits of the green transition.
The Commission commits to ongoing dialogue with Member States, fostering understanding of climate risks and opportunities and building support for effective policies. This approach precedes legislative revisions, adhering to evidence-based policy-making aligned with Better Regulation guidelines.
In addition, inclusive dialogues with stakeholders ensure that policies enshrined in the European Green Deal contribute to a just and competitive transition.
Notably, the Clean Industrial Deal[4] that facilitates achievement of EU climate goals by incentivising industry decarbonisation, was supported by stakeholder initiatives like the Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal[5] and Clean Transition Dialogues[6], tailored to sectors such as automotive, steel, metals and chemicals.
[1] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/2178 of 6 July 2021 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2020/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council by specifying the content and presentation of information to be disclosed by undertakings subject to Articles 19a or 29a of Directive 2013/34/EU concerning environmentally sustainable economic activities, and specifying the methodology to comply with that disclosure obligation OJ L 443, 10.12.2021, p. 9-67.
Hawala is an informal, trust-based money transfer system often used for money remittances. It operates outside traditional banking, without using authorised financial institutions.
Under EU legislation, all operators providing payment services[1] must become authorised payment institutions. This mandates such operators to perform customer due diligence[2] and report suspicious transactions to law enforcement authorities[3].
Enforcement actions have been ongoing since 2019, both at national level and through international monitoring mechanisms. The Commission actively participates in the Financial Action Task Force and MONEYVAL[4] mutual evaluation processes, which assess countries’ compliance with anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) standards.
These evaluations have identified risks associated with informal value transfer systems, including hawala, in both EU Member States and third countries.
They recommend strengthening supervision and adopting measures, practices and detailed guidelines on effective parallel financial investigations.
Conducting these types of funds transfers informally and without authorisation already exposes their perpetrators to the risk of being severely sanctioned in all EU Member States. Hence, making a legislative proposal to limit the use of hawala has so far not been considered necessary.
Instead, the focus remains on practical enforcement and supervision. With the entry into application of the AML/CFT package adopted in 2024[5] and the establishment of the AML Authority (AMLA), the EU and its Member States will further enhance their capacities to supervise illicit financial flows, including when performed through unauthorised hawala activities.
[1] Which includes money remittance, as per Annex I, point 6 of Directive (EU) 2015/2366 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 November 2015 on payment services in the internal market (PSD2).
[2] As per Article 11 of Directive (EU) 2015/849, OJ L 141, 5.6.2015, p. 73-117.
[3] As per Article 33 of Directive (EU) 2015/849, OJ L 141, 5.6.2015, p. 73-117.
[4] Committee of Experts on the Evaluation of Anti-Money Laundering Measures and the Financing of Terrorism.
The Non-Performing Loans (NPL) Directive[1] applies as of 30 December 2023. According to Article 2 of the directive, its scope is limited to creditor’s rights under a non-performing credit agreement, or of the non-performing credit agreement itself, issued by a credit institution established in the EU.
From this perspective, the transfer of social insurance debt or due contributions are not in scope of this directive. This domain is therefore competence of national law, without prejudice to the application of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR)[2].
The supervision and enforcement of the GDPR falls within the competence of the national supervisory authorities and courts, without prejudice to the competences of the Commission as guardian of the Treaties.
[1] Directive (EU) 2021/2167 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2021 on credit servicers and credit purchasers and amending Directives 2008/48/EC and 2014/17/EU, OJ L 438, 8.12.2021, p.1.
[2] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (GDPR), OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88, and (EU) 2018/1725.
1. Regulation 656/2014[1] applies in the context of operational cooperation coordinated by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and does not affect the division of competences between the EU and the Member States or the obligations of the national authorities under the relevant international conventions[2]. This also includes the responsibility for declaring and coordinating search and rescue (SAR) activities in cases such as the one in question. In line with international law, this competence belongs exclusively to the rescue coordination centre(s) that oversee the area in which the specific incident takes place.
2. The Commission has no competence to influence the way SAR activities are declared or performed by the responsible national authorities. Nevertheless, saving lives at sea is a moral duty, as well as a legal obligation for Member States under international law, independently from the circumstances that lead people to find themselves in distress at sea. The Commission remains committed to supporting the Member States to operate in line with this principle. The Commission repeatedly calls on all actors involved in SAR to always prioritise saving lives at sea and to comply with the relevant legal framework.
3. According to open sources, the persons stranded on the Miskar oil platform were rescued by Sea-Watch and subsequently safely disembarked in Lampedusa on 4 March 2025, upon instructions received by Sea-Watch from the Italian Coast Guard.
[1] Regulation (EU) No 656/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 establishing rules for the surveillance of the external sea borders in the context of operational cooperation coordinated by the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union. OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 93-107.
[2] Such as the International Convention on the Law of the Sea, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, and the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue.
The Commission has undertaken several initiatives to protect democracy in the EU, in particular with the European Democracy Action Plan of 2020 and the Defence of Democracy Package of 2023[1].
Their success is reflected, among other things, in the general satisfaction of respondents to standard Eurobarometer surveys with the way democracy works in the EU[2].
As regards transparency of financial flows, several pieces of EU legislation are relevant. Regulation (EU) 2024/900 on the transparency and targeting of political advertising[3], which will enter into full application on 10 October 2025, will support national oversight of funding of political advertising and minimise the risk of information manipulation and foreign interference by requiring the provision, among others, of oversight authorities and record-keeping of information on the amounts received for political advertising services.
As part of the Defence of Democracy package the Commission presented a legislative proposal that aims to enhance transparency and democratic accountability of interest representation activities on behalf of third countries which seek to influence policies, decision making and the democratic space. The proposal is currently being discussed by the co-legislators.
In terms of following the money in general, Member States’ competent authorities will have better access to the information they need with the application of the anti-money laundering package[4], which was adopted by the co-legislators in 2024, and will enter into application in July 2027.
In 2025, the Commission will propose a European Democracy Shield, which will, among other things, set out steps to combat foreign information manipulation, interference and disinformation.
The protection of personal data in the EU is ensured by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)[1] which applies to both public and private organisations in the EU.
Genetic data fall within the special categories of personal data which can be processed only if one of the conditions in Article 9(2) GDPR is fulfilled. This provides an additional layer of protection considering the potential risks arising from the processing of this type of data.
Following the GDPR risk-based approach, controllers and processors must put in place adequate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk (Articles 5(1)(f) and 32 GDPR).
If the envisaged processing is likely to result in a high risk, the controller has to conduct a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA), and in some situations, to consult the competent Data Protection Authority (DPA).
In line with Article 28 GDPR, the controller has to choose a processor that provides sufficient guarantees in terms of data protection.
The binding contract or other legal act governing their relationship shall stipulate, among others, that the processor must ensure that its staff authorised to process the data have committed themselves to confidentiality. The GDPR does not impose the public disclosure of the contract, nor the funding.
It follows that the Greek public authority, acting as controller, is responsible for ensuring that the data processing for the preventive screening meets the GDPR standards.
The monitoring and enforcement of the application of the GDPR falls within the competence of the national DPAs and courts, without prejudice to the Commission’s competences as guardian of the Treaties.
It is therefore for the Greek DPA to examine whether the ‘programmatic agreement’ complies with the GDPR.
[1] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (GDPR), OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
Directive (EU) 2016/343 sets out rules on public references by public authorities to the guilt of a suspect or accused person prior to a conviction.
It does not require specific limitations as to the publication by the press of procedural documents relating to the pre-trial stage of the proceedings.
Without prejudice to national law protecting the freedom of press and other media, the directive only establishes minimum rules, requiring that the dissemination of any information by public authorities to the media must respect the presumption of innocence and not create the impression that the person is guilty before his or her guilt has been proven according to law.
The 2024 Rule of Law report for Italy[1] noted that the legislative initiatives regulating access to and publication of certain judicial information were a source of concern for media stakeholders.
The report also notes that the Italian Government considers these initiatives to be justified to guarantee the right to privacy and the presumption of innocence. The Commission will continue monitoring the developments in this respect in the framework of the Rule of Law Report.
[1] E uropean Commission, 2024 Rule of Law Report, ‘Country Chapter on the rule of law situation in Italy’ (SWD(2024) 812 final); https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/60d79a4f-49cd-4061-a18f-d3a4495d6485_en?filename=29_1_58066_coun_chap_italy_en.pdf.
Question for written answer E-002381/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Christine Schneider (PPE)
Numerous reports and observations from various Member States, in particular Germany, indicate that the practical implementation of Regulation (EU) 2020/741 has caused significant difficulties. Many farmers and municipalities lose access to treated waste water because many smaller projects are unable to meet the technical and administrative requirements of the Regulation. This runs counter to the Regulation’s objective of promoting water reuse and addressing water scarcity.
1.How does the Commission assess the practical implementation of Regulation (EU) 2020/741, in particular as regards access to treated waste water for irrigation in agriculture in the Member States, and is the Commission aware that, as a result of the above-mentioned requirements, smaller farms and municipalities in particular have lost access to treated waste water and are instead having to increasingly resort to using valuable drinking water for irrigation?
2.How does the Commission view the criticism that the current requirements of the Regulation could lead to a reduction in water reuse in practice, thus undermining the very objective of the Regulation?
3.Does the Commission intend to evaluate Regulation (EU) 2020/741 in the light of real-world practical experience and feedback so far and, if necessary, propose adjustments to facilitate water reuse?
Question for written answer E-002373/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Mélanie Disdier (PfE), Hans Neuhoff (ESN), Alexander Sell (ESN), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), Jan-Peter Warnke (NI), Rody Tolassy (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Marie Dauchy (PfE), Virginie Joron (PfE), Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Fernand Kartheiser (NI)
Under the Birds Directive (2009/147/EC), the killing or disturbance of protected species, as well as the degradation of their habitats, is strictly prohibited, in particular in Natura 2000 areas. However, the planned wind farm off the coast at Dunkirk, located in a Natura 2000 area, is raising concerns about its impact on protected species, such as seabirds and migratory birds[1].
The decision to temporarily cease operating the Aumelas wind farm in Hérault[2], taken in order to protect endangered species, serves as a reminder that preserving biodiversity takes precedence over industrial projects, in accordance with EU law.
1.Can the Commission confirm that the construction of the wind farm off the coast at Dunkirk fully complies with the obligations of the Birds Directive, in particular with regard to the assessment of the impact on protected species?
2.What specific steps does the Commission intend to take to prevent the disturbance or destruction of bird habitats in this Natura 2000 area?
3.How does the Commission ensure that the protective measures within the framework of this project are implemented and monitored?
In Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan[1], the Commission indicated that it will ‘explore measures on exposure to ultraviolet radiation, including from sunbeds, which increases the risk of melanoma…’.
Sunbeds are already covered by the EU’s Low Voltage Directive[2], which covers all safety aspects — including health risks — of electrical equipment. Therefore, all sunbeds used for tanning purposes must comply with the standards set in this directive, which covers cancer-related risks.
The Commission concluded that more information on the effectiveness of preventive and mitigation measures is needed to have a comprehensive understanding of how policy recommendations could lead to a better protection of EU citizens from health risks associated with the use of sunbeds, beyond the protection already provided under the Low Voltage Directive.
At this stage, further compelling new evidence including on the effectiveness of actions that would justify further measures is not available. Therefore, it would be premature to put forward a Commission Recommendation on sunbeds at this stage.
The fourth edition of the European Code Against Cancer[3] already includes clear guidance on avoiding the use of sunbeds, a recommendation that is being considered to be maintained in the forthcoming fifth edition of the Code.
[2] Directive 2014/35/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 February 2014 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits. OJ L 96, 29.3.2014, p. 357-374
The EU agri-food chain observatory (AFCO) was launched in 2024 as one of the actions that aim to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain and reinforce trust between actors.
As set out in its Terms of Reference[1], the purpose of AFCO is to advise the Commission and to exchange information and discuss with a view to establishing a common diagnosis of the situation across markets, and bring increased transparency on prices, cost structure, margin distribution and added value in the supply chain, while respecting confidentiality and competition rules.
Market observatories, such as AFCO, provide advice and expertise and do not engage in policy discussions. In line with its Terms of Reference, by assessing and taking stock of the situation within the supply chain, the group provides inputs to inform policy responses by the Commission and other policy-makers.
Members of the AFCO exchange information based on available evidence and facts. These include existing data collected by the Commission, such as the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development and Eurostat, as well as information made available by members in full respect of confidentiality and competition rules.
The Commission assesses the quality of data. Potential limitations in their use, comparability or interpretation are taken into account and clearly communicated when data are disseminated.
The AFCO has convened three times since its creation. Its work currently focuses on identifying relevant data sources and data gaps, with a view to enabling the group to monitor the agri-food supply chain.
Since 2020, the EU has set up a comprehensive regulatory framework to support the scale up of renewable hydrogen, including enabling financing under the European Hydrogen Bank (EHB).
After two auctions already implemented under this financial initiative to support hydrogen production in Europe[1], by the end of 2025 the Commission will launch a third auction, with a budget of up to EUR 1 billion from the Innovation Fund (IF).
The IF also provides funding to hydrogen-related projects through its regular grants[2]. By the end of 2025, the results of the latest regular grant call (IF24) will be published and a new call will be opened.
Moreover, to enhance impact from its calls, the IF implemented the ‘as-a-Service’ feature[3], allowing Member States[4] to allocate national funding in addition to the Innovation Fund. This feature will be available again in upcoming calls.
The Commission also works to establish joint European auctions for imports of renewable hydrogen. Under a Team Europe approach, willing Member States will be able to pool funding and attract competitive bids from third-country producers, thus further supporting the decarbonisation of their industry and transport sectors as well as contributing to wider goals such as the development of key import infrastructure corridors.
The Commission will launch the Mechanism to support market development of hydrogen[5] in the third quarter of 2025. It will bring together buyers and sellers[6] on an online platform, enabling them to find potential commercial partners, and connecting them with financial support.
[1] Through the three auction calls, the EHB will have made available EUR 3 billion in grants: https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-funding-climate-action/innovation-fund/competitive-bidding_en.
[2] Under the IF, more than 40 projects covering the full hydrogen value chain are already receiving a total of EUR 3 billion in regular grants.
[4] Germany, Austria, Spain and Lithuania have already contributed, together, with almost EUR 1.2 billion in national resources in the IF23 and IF24 Auctions.
[5] In accordance with the mandate received pursuant to Regulation (EU) 1789/2024 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on the internal markets for renewable gas, natural gas and hydrogen.
[6] The Hydrogen Mechanism covers renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and its derivatives (ammonia, methanol, eSAFs).
