NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Leader welcomes Government’s Spending Review

    Source: City of Manchester

    Statement from Council Leader in response to the Government’s Spending Review

    Statement from Council Leader in response to the Government’s Spending Review:

    Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester is leading the way in building homes, creating jobs, growing the economy inclusively and supporting our residents. The announcements in today’s Spending Review will do much to help maintain that positive momentum.

    “We particularly welcome the announcement of £39 billion extra funding nationally for council, social and other genuinely affordable homes. We’re already delivering more affordable homes than at any time in the last 15 years and the availability of very significant extra funding will allow us to go even further in delivering this generational increase. It’s welcome to have an increase in spending for local councils, and I will look forward to the local government settlement to see what this means for places like Manchester who had our budgets cut heavily by Governments since 2010.

    “Following last week’s transport news, we also welcome the commitment to investing in our railways and other infrastructure – the sort of long-term strategic thinking which is vital to address years of underinvestment. Improved rail connections will help us power our aspirations for the city and its people and we look forward to the detail.

    “This Spending Review was delivered in challenging circumstances but there is still much in there which is encouraging as we await the detail in the coming days.

    “I welcome the largest investment in social and affordable housing in 50 years, alongside the record investment to rebuild the NHS. This alongside the expansion of Free School Meals, and investment in public transport address issues that really matter to Manchester people.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: The silent killer: We need better risk governance to beat extreme heat | GP 2025

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Extreme heat is no longer a seasonal inconvenience. It’s a systemic, cross-cutting threat, silently claiming lives, stressing economies, overwhelming cities, and widening inequalities. Yet it remains one of the least governed climate hazards.

    At a high-level special event on extreme heat risk governance at the 2025 Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025, leaders from governments, international agencies, labour unions, academia, and the humanitarian sector came together to discuss how better governance can protect people’s lives from the “silent killer.”

    “Extreme heat is the deadliest of all climate-related hazards,” said the World Meteorological Organization’s Director-General Celeste Saulo. “Yet it remains the least recognized and least managed.”

    The crisis is heating up

    Between 2000 and 2019, extreme heat caused an estimated 489,000 deaths annually. Heat takes its toll on global productivity, with International Labour Organisation estimates showing that in low- and middle-income economies in particular, the costs of injuries from excessive heat in the workplace can reach around 1.5 per cent of national GDP. And these risks are intensifying.

    “This is not just a health crisis. It is an economic, labour and governance crisis,” said Dr. Saulo.

    Despite this, as of 2023 only half of national meteorological services were issuing extreme heat warnings, and just 26 countries had dedicated heat-health early warning systems, WMO reported. 

    Urbanisation is compounding the threat. Cities are warming up twice as fast as the global average, and 68% of the global population projected to live in urban centres by 2050.

    From a reactive to a systemic approach

    Much of the current global approach to heat is reactive: authorities issue warning during events, the respond to spikes, and measure the toll on communities and economies. But the impacts cascade across sectors – disrupting health, labour, agriculture, education, and energy – and this requires a systemic governance response.

    “Heat is a systemic and pervasive risk,” said Dr. Pramod Kumar Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India. “It cuts across public health, economic stability, and ecological resilience.”

    The problem is not technical, but a lack of effective plans and policies to implement live-saving measures.

    “Most of the extreme heat impact is predictable,” said IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain. “If something is predictable, it’s preventable.”

    Responses need be rapid, and taken at the level of local communities, using cross-sectoral partnerships.

    Lessons in local leadership

    Examples from several countries demonstrate how integrated governance can work:

    • India first developed a local plan in Ahmedabad and now has 250+ cities and districts with operational heat action plans (HAPs).
    • France, after a devastating heatwave in 2003, launched a multi-ministry effort to integrate adaptation and risk communication. Stakeholders were asked to imagine life under a +4°C scenario, and then develop local and national resilience strategies around this likely reality.
    • The Philippines has developed a real-time “iHeatMap” platform and set up a cross-sectoral national task force to manage health, food, energy, and water impacts during heat events.

    To guide cities in improving heat governance, the Making Cities Resilient 2030 initiative has developed a resource package on urban extreme heat risk management, which gives practical recommendations to help local and national governments create urban heat strategies.

    “We are learning through lived experience,” said Senator Rosa Galvez of Canada – such as the 2021 heat dome in British Columbia, which lasted 27 days and resulted in 618 deaths. “But we must understand that we cannot adapt forever.”

    Protecting the poorest

    “Poor people can’t afford poor design—especially on a heating planet,” said the International Labour Organization’s Mia Seppo.

    To address this imbalance, we need climate-informed finance that protects workers and promotes inclusive infrastructure investment.

    “Financial strategies must align with just transition principles,” Ms. Seppo said. “Climate risk must be integrated into investment decisions.”

    “Any development project should have a heat risk element,” said Dr. Mishra. “Projects should include protection for both users and workers. Construction companies, for instance, must provide heat protection for labourers.”

    Benoît Faraco, France’s Ambassador for Climate Negotiations for Decarbonized Energies and for the Prevention of Climate Risks, said that regulatory levers and standards can drive climate-resilient investment and avoid maladaptive pathways.

    “Standards and regulation play an important role in prevention. You cannot build a hospital or school as if climate change was not happening; it’s your job in the design to integrate mitigation and adaptation strategy,” he said. “If you let the market do things on heatwaves, people run to buy air conditioning systems, and during peak electricity demand this results in more fossil fuel use. It’s misadaptation.”

    A global framework for local action

    To facilitate coordinated approaches to extreme heat, UNDRR, WMO, WHO and the Global Heat Health Information Network are developing a Common Framework for Extreme Heat Risk Governance. This initiative aims to align actors across sectors, and to support national and subnational entities in integrating extreme heat into their DRR, climate, health, and urban strategies.

    The Common Framework is designed to support the UN Secretary-General’s Call to Action on Extreme Heat, which outlines eight essential course corrections:

    • Accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.
    • Enhance investments in sustainable, low-carbon energy systems to mitigate heat-related risks.
    • Promote climate-resilient agricultural practices, such as drought-resistant crops and sustainable irrigation.
    • Strengthen food supply chains to withstand heat-induced disruptions.
    • Integrate urban planning with heat mitigation measures, including green infrastructure and shaded areas.
    • Prioritize nature-based solutions that enhance resilience across sectors.
    • Implement national heat action plans, including early warning systems.
    • Establish heat-safe working conditions and policies.

    These actions form the foundation of effective heat governance and call for integrated leadership across all sectors of society, at all levels of government.

    “We must mainstream heat into both climate and disaster governance. We must embrace a multi-hazard approach,” Dr. Saula said. “We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. We need to align, scale and accelerate.”

    Every extreme heat death is preventable

    Closing the special event, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction Kamal Kishore said we should aim for zero heat-related deaths next heat season.

    “We have the science. We know what to do. Now we must act – urgently, together, and at all levels,” he said.

    We can start by making schools safer against extreme heat.

    “One of my dreams is that in five years we will have 100,000 heat-resilient schools in all heat-prone areas,” Mr. Kishore said. “It’s not rocket science. We know what it takes to build heat-resilient schools in terms of built environment. We know how to incorporate green spaces and water bodies in schools. We know what kind of awareness children need to have to deal with heat waves.”

    The Common Framework will provide tools to make schools, homes, and workplaces safer from the heat – but political will, coordinated governance, and community-centred approaches will determine whether the world beats the heat or succumbs to it.

    We need to act for heat resilience today. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: From coast to community: Local leaders drive early warning action at UN Ocean Conference

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Nice, France, 9 June 2025 – As climate extremes intensify and sea levels rise, coastal communities are sounding the alarm – not about distant threats, but about dangers already unfolding. At the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, a side event titled “From Coast to Community: Building Resilience Through Early Warnings” put the spotlight a critical mission: ensuring that every person on Earth is protected by Early Warnings for All (EW4All) by 2027. Co-hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the event brought together ministers, mayors, scientists, and UN leaders.Their message was clear: early warnings save lives – but only if they are inclusive, trusted, and locally led.

    The call: early warnings must be inclusive, trusted and locally led

    Opening the session, Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the UN Office for Partnerships, underscored that nearly half the world still lacks access to basic early warning systems- She emphasized that early warnings are not just about sensors and satellites, – they are about people, institutions, leadership, and action at every level. From coastlines to city halls, from community organizers to data scientists, everyone has a role to play. 

    “Sea levels are rising. Storms are intensifying. Lives and livelihoods are hanging in the balance. And when disaster strikes without warning, the results are brutal. That’s not just a gap – that’s an injustice.” – Annemarie Hou, UN Office for Partnerships

    Jamaica: Reaching people where they are

    H.E. Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s Foreign Minister, shared how the country is integrating smart technologies and community engagement into its early warning systems. With 70% of the population living within five kilometers of the coast, Jamaica has installed flood gauges, hurricane detection systems, and 15 early warning siren towers – covering 95% of the population. 

    “We’ve partnered with mobile networks to deliver real-time alerts and even used TikTok to reach people where they are. Early warnings must be accessible, relatable, and trusted.” – Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jamaica

    Jamaica’s approach is grounded in legislation, with early warnings embedded in both its Disaster Risk Management Act and Climate Change Policy Framework.

    WMO: The physics of urgency

    Prof. Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization, delivered a sobering message: science is clear, and the window for action is closing. Greenhouse gas concentrations are at record highs, and the last decade has been the hottest on record. She emphasized that adaptation and coastal resilience are no longer optional – they are essential. Early warnings are a cornerstone of that resilience, but they must be timely, actionable, and globally supported.

     “We cannot negotiate with the laws of physics. Every fraction of a degree matters. Early warnings work – but only if they work for everyone, everywhere.” – Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General, WMO

    UNDRR: Local leadership is not optional – It’s essential

    Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, emphasized that early warnings are central to achieving the Sendai Framework’s goals. He reminded the audience that while 108 countries report having multi-hazard early warning systems, 85 still do not. He outlined three priorities: empower local leadership, bridge science and community knowledge, and embed early warnings into broader systems of resilience. He also called for simplified, accelerated financing to support small island states and vulnerable communities. 

    “If we fail on early warnings, we fail on reducing disaster losses. Local actors are not waiting – they are innovating. They deserve investment and political support.” – Kamal Kishore, UNDRR

    Local leadership in action: Voices from the frontlines

    Moderated by Pulitzer Center journalist Delger Erdenesanaa, the panel showcased how cities and communities are turning global goals into local action: 

    – Thabani Nyawose, Speaker of Council, Durban, South Africa, shared how community-based early warning systems saved lives during the devastating 2022 floods. In Quarry Road informal settlement – home to 1,000 residents – not a single life was lost, thanks to a locally managed alert system linked to the South African Weather Service. 

    – Dr. Jérôme Aucan, Head of PCCOS, described how Pacific Island nations are building resilience through decades of investment in ocean modeling, risk knowledge, and regional cooperation. In Tuvalu, early warning data informed over $50 million in adaptation investments and supported legal advocacy at the International Court of Justice. 

    – Rym Nadia Benzina Bourguiba, President of La Saison Bleue, emphasized the power of inclusive dialogue and South-South cooperation. Her organization has mobilized thousands of students and citizens across Africa and the Mediterranean through education, cleanups, and regional summits. 

    – Patricia Desouza, UN Resident Coordinator in Cabo Verde, described how the UN is helping transform early warnings into daily tools for dignity and security. In Mozambique, early alerts triggered evacuation protocols that protected over 3 million people. In Cabo Verde, early warnings are now embedded in agriculture, water governance, and national policy planning.

    A Call to Action: Urgency, Innovation, and Equity

    Closing the session, Prof. Dwikorita Karnawati, Head of Indonesia’s BMKG, called for harnessing AI, big data, and IoT to make early warnings smarter and more accessible. She emphasized that innovation must be paired with capacity building and local ownership. 

    “We must move from managing disasters to managing risk. Early warnings are the bridge.” – Dwikorita Karnawati, BMKG Indonesia

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mashatile’s office rebuffs claims of misuse of State funds for ’extravagant’ overseas trips

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Mashatile’s office rebuffs claims of misuse of State funds for ’extravagant’ overseas trips

    The Office of the Deputy President has released a statement denying allegations of misusing State funds related to Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s international travel. 

    This statement follows extensive media coverage from various news outlets and public speculation on the matter. 

    “Categorically, the Office and the Deputy President have not, as seems to be suggested, misused State funds or been extravagant in financing the costs of the Deputy President’s international travel,” the statement read on Tuesday evening. 

    According to the Presidency, the matter was first raised after a written parliamentary inquiry from Action SA, which prompted detailed disclosures regarding travel expenses.

    “In light of such an expected phenomenon, the Deputy President replied to the question in full and also provided specific details, which include correct figures and breakdown of individual costs by members of the delegation supporting the Deputy President.” 

    The Deputy President’s Office has stressed that all international trips undertaken are in his official capacity, representing the South African government, as directed by President Cyril Ramaphosa. 

    “Moreover, the majority of these strategic international visits are aimed at strengthening existing bilateral, political, economic and diplomatic relations between South Africa and visited countries.” 

    Mashatile has engaged in several significant international working visits since taking office on 3 July 2024, including trips to Ireland, the United Kingdom and Japan, with further planned visits to France. 

    The Office has provided a comprehensive breakdown of the expenses associated with these trips, stressing that many figures circulated in the media are inflated. 

    News24 recently reported that the Deputy President’s recent trip to Japan in March cost R2.3 million, with R900 000 covering accommodation for him and his wife.

    However, the Presidency stated that the Japan visit was particularly highlighted for its strategic relevance, marking the first high-level engagement between South Africa and Japan in a decade, coinciding with the 115th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

    During the Japan working visit, the country’s second-in-command was accompanied by various Ministers. 

    The Presidency believes that the visit was advantageous for South Africa’s African Agenda, especially considering the current overlap of South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) chairship and Japan’s upcoming hosting of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in August.

    “This presents a unique opportunity for South Africa to communicate its own and the continent’s position and priorities to Japan, and the expected support and role that Japan could play in this regard.”

    In addition, the Deputy President’s Office stated that the claims of exorbitant costs for certain officials have been disputed, and that the actual expenditure is significantly lower.

    “Regrettably, some of the figures presented by the media are significantly blown out of proportion and do not accurately reflect the cost of the trips. For example, one media liaison officer, referred to by TimesLive as the ‘most expensive supporting official’, is said to have cost R580 582 for Japan alone, when in fact, the total cost for that official is less than R66 000, including flights and accommodation.” 

    The Office has reassured the public that the Deputy President’s travels are conducted with fiscal responsibility and in alignment with South Africa’s commitment to global relations and investment.

    “In terms of the travel policy in the Presidential Handbook, transport for the President and Deputy President during travel outside South Africa is the responsibility and for the account of the State.” 

    In addition, the Office mentioned that the financial responsibilities for the visits, which include travel, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenses, are typically shared between the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and other participating departments. 

    “In all these visits, the Office of the Deputy President has insisted on the most cost-effective provisions for the Deputy President and his delegations and has therefore not misused or extravagantly used State funds, as alluded.” – SAnews.gov.za

    Gabisile

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuning a NASA Instrument: Calibrating MASTER

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley houses a unique laboratory: the Airborne Sensor Facility (ASF). The engineers at the ASF are responsible for building, maintaining, and operating numerous instruments that get deployed on research aircraft, but one of their most important roles is instrument calibration.
    Think of calibration like tuning a piano between performances: A musician uses a tuner to set the standard pitch for each string, ensuring that the piano remains on pitch for every concert.
    The “tuners” at ASF include lasers, mirrors, and a light source called an integrating sphere – a hollow sphere about 36 inches in diameter that emits a set amount of light from a hole in the top. By checking an instrument against this baseline between each mission, engineers ensure that the instrument sensors provide accurate, reliable data every time.
    In the photo above, electrical engineer Nikolas Gibson performs calibration tests on the MODIS/ASTER Airborne Simulator (MASTER) spectrometer, co-developed by NASA Ames and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.
    A spectrometer separates light into individual wavelengths, providing researchers with information about the properties of whatever is creating or interacting with that light. The MASTER instrument measures about 50 individual spectral channels, providing data on wavelengths from the visible spectrum through the infrared.
    When it comes to calibration, each of these channels functions like a specific key on a piano and needs to be individually checked against the “tuner.” By pointing the instrument’s sensor at a known quantity of light coming from the integrating sphere, the team checks the accuracy of MASTER’s data output and repairs or adjusts the sensor as needed.
    In this image, MASTER had returned from an April 2025 scientific campaign observing  prescribed fires in Alabama and Georgia with NASA’s FireSense project. It was recalibrated before heading back into the field for the Geological Earth Mapping Experiment, or GEMx,  mission in late May 2025, which will use the instrument to help map critical minerals across the southwestern United States.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The war on drugs – E-002297/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002297/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

    The spread of drugs, particularly among young people, remains one of the most important social threats in the European Union. New psychoactive substances are rapidly circulating on the market, often originating from non-EU countries, and are difficult to trace. At the same time, organised crime continues to use new trafficking methods, mainly using digital media and postal services.

    Given the consequences for health, safety and social cohesion:

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to strengthen the European early warning and information exchange mechanism on new substances?
    • 2.What financial instruments are available to Member States for prevention and rehabilitation, particularly in school and youth settings?
    • 3.Is there any intention to set up a pan-European information campaign on the dangers of drugs?

    Submitted: 6.6.2025

    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Foreign interference in Hungary and recommendations on the transparency of foreign-funded non-governmental organisations – P-002264/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002264/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    András László (PfE)

    At the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs’ meeting of 4 June 2025, the Commission again failed to answer my questions. I therefore request answers to the following:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the foreign interference in the 2022 Hungarian parliamentary elections funded by the United States of America?
    • 2.In the context of foreign-funded political activism, what concrete measures does the Commission recommend the Member States take to ensure the transparency of foreign-funded non-governmental organisations, in line with what it considers to be European values?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The use of Paragon Solutions spyware against journalists – E-000617/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware of the recent reports on the use of Paragon. Its position on the use of spyware is very clear: any attempts to illegally access data of citizens, including journalists and political opponents, is unacceptable, if confirmed.

    The data protection and privacy acquis offers comprehensive protection to the confidentiality of communications and users’ personal data and terminal equipment. EU data protection law is applicable to the processing of personal data by private entities, even where such processing is required for national security purposes.

    Under the ePrivacy Directive[1], the interception or surveillance of communications is prohibited without the consent of the user. While restrictions are permitted for important public objectives, they are subject to strict conditions and safeguards.

    The Law Enforcement Directive[2] is also applicable when competent authorities process personal data for law enforcement purposes. Supervisory authorities have effective powers to examine any allegations of misuse, and data processed can be subject to judicial review.

    As regards the protection of journalistic sources and confidential information, the Commission recalls that Article 4(3)(c) of the European Media Freedom Act[3] (EMFA) will become applicable as of 8 August 2025.

    The application of this and other safeguards in EMFA will ensure free and independent media across the EU and protect them against interference. The Commission will use all tools at its disposal to ensure the effective application of EU law.

    • [1] Directive 2002/58/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 July 2002 concerning the processing of personal data and the protection of privacy in the electronic communications sector (Directive on privacy and electronic communications), OJ L 201, 31.7.2002, p. 37.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2016/680 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 by competent authorities for the purposes of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences or the execution of criminal penalties, and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Council Framework Decision 2008/977/JHA, OJ L 119, 4.
    • [3]  Regulation (EU) 2024/1083: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32024R1083. The provision stipulates that ‘Member States shall ensure that journalistic sources and confidential communications are effectively protected’ and that, subject to a strictly limited derogation, ‘Member States shall not deploy intrusive surveillance software on any material, digital device, machine or tool used by media service providers, their editorial staff or any persons who, because of their regular or professional relationship with a media service provider or its editorial staff, might have information related to or capable of identifying journalistic sources or confidential communications’.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Political representation of religious minorities in Iraq – E-000638/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU supports the different Iraqi institutions in strengthening democratic and inclusive governance, with the full participation of all components of the Iraqi society, including women and youth, as well as ethnic and religious minorities.

    The need to protect and improve the situation of minorities is raised regularly by the EU on its interactions with the authorities, notably in the ongoing electoral period ahead of the 11 November 2025 legislative elections.

    Most recently, this was also conveyed by the EU side at the recent 8th EU-Iraq Inter-Parliamentary meeting held on 14 May 2025 in Brussels.

    The EU supports, empowers and is in regular contact with Iraqi civil society organisations and human rights defenders as important components of the society. In recent weeks, the EU Delegation in Iraq has held conversations with Christian, Yazidi and Mandaean-Sabaean representatives from all across Iraq.

    These discussions revealed some degree of frustration about the current minority quota seats process not resulting in better representation.

    The concrete outcome of EU engagement with civil society representatives is to improve their capacity and political participation as well as understanding of the positions of the different communities to better tackle and raise their case when interacting with both the national and regional authorities.

    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Israeli demolitions of Palestinian homes in the Palestinian occupied West Bank – E-001332/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU reiterates its strong opposition to Israel’s settlement policy and actions taken in this context, including demolitions, forced displacement and settler violence.

    Widespread demolitions of Palestinian homes and structures by the Israeli authorities, coupled with a rapid expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank through the advancement of a record number of housing units during 2025, are seriously undermining the viability of the two-state solution.

    The EU is gravely concerned that the occupation of the Palestinian territory that began in 1967 continues to this day, underlining in particular that the International Court of Justice has found that the continued presence of Israel in the occupied Palestinian territory is unlawful.

    The EU strongly condemns the demolitions of structures funded by the EU or its Member States and expects that Israel makes good the damage in accordance with international law[1].

    The EU is concerned about the escalating violence in the West Bank, with the ongoing Israeli military operation against armed militants leading to the destruction of large parts of refugee camps and the evacuation of some 40 000 Palestinians from their homes. The EU recalls the utmost importance of ensuring the protection of all civilians in military operations.

    The EU is committed to a just, comprehensive and lasting political resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the two-state solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign, and viable State of Palestine[2], living side by side in peace and security and mutual recognition, and with Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both states. The EU is engaging with both sides to achieve this goal.

    • [1] The EU’s position for the 13th EU-Israel Association Council -https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-6511-2025-INIT/en/pdf.
    • [2]  This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the individual positions of the Member States on this issue.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Operation of Russian military helicopters in some EU Member States – E-001346/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission identified replacing post-Soviet legacy equipment as one of the most pressing challenges in the Joint Communication on the Defence Investment Gaps Analysis and Way Forward published on 18 May 2022[1] and initiated immediate actions to address it commonly in the spirit of solidarity proposing a regulation on establishing an instrument for the reinforcement of the European defence industry through common procurement[2].

    The programme proved to be successful and the Commission has proposed its follow-up through the European Defence Industry Programme[3], currently under consideration by the co-legislators.

    Moreover, the Commission proposed on 19 March 2025 a new regulation establishing the Security Action for Europe[4] that would be instrumental in addressing the replacement of Member States’ legacy equipment. It will provide Member States with loans up to EUR 150 billion to pursue their rearmament plans.

    To address the issue of replacing post-Soviet equipment in a longer-term perspective, the Commission supports research and development actions through the European Defence Fund[5].

    It supports the European Defence industry to provide Member States with new state of the art, innovative defence products and technologies.

    Decisions on the replacement of Russian helicopters and measures to ensure safety and security of their deployment are the responsibility of Member States, which remain obliged to comply with all the relevant restrictive measures (sanctions) in Council Decision (CFSP) 2014/512[6] and Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014[7].

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52022JC0024.
    • [2]  ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/2418/oj.
    • [3] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/edip-proposal-regulation_en.
    • [4] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/document/download/6d6f889c-e58d-4caa-8f3b-8b93154fe206_en?filename=SAFE%20Regulation.pdf.
    • [5] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-defence-industry/european-defence-fund-edf-official-webpage-european-commission_en.
    • [6] ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2014/512/2025-02-25.
    • [7]  ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2014/833/2025-02-25.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The Commission’s recent statement on the 28th regime and labour law – E-000673/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Competitiveness Compass announced the initiative on the 28th regime as one of the key measures to contribute to EU competitiveness and to make business easier and faster in Europe.

    The burden due to fragmentation of rules in different policy areas, including national corporate regimes , is proportionately greater for smaller companies, which have less financial and human resources. The diversity of national regimes also creates constraints for investors by increasing complexity and costs.

    This initiative will provide companies, in particular innovative ones, with a harmonised set of rules to make investing and operating in the single market easier.

    As a key element, it will set out a new corporate legal framework for companies. It will build further on existing solutions in EU acquis, in particular on fully online procedures and digital tools for companies in EU company law.

    This corporate legal framework will be complemented by targeted actions in other policy areas to help innovative companies, start-ups and scale-ups develop in the S ingle Market. Whether and what labour law elements could be included is to be determined.

    The initiative will be subject to an open public consultation where all interested parties can express their views. In addition, the 28th regime will be discussed in t he High-Level Forum on Justice for Growth.

    The Forum will be composed of representatives of all Member States, the European Parliament and stakeholders, including the main cross-industry organisations representing social partners at EU level. Further specific consultations would be considered, depending on the possible actions related to labour law.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Withdrawal of the Equal Treatment Directive – E-001151/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As the Commission already pointed out in its answer to Written Question P -000962/2025 , in preparing the first work programme of the mandate, the Commission thoroughly assessed all proposals currently pending with the co-legislators.

    In its assessment, the Commission took into account whether proposals were actively being considered and agreement could be reached or, on the contrary, blocked for a very long time and/or without any real perspective of progress in the foreseeable future.

    As a result of this assessment, the Commission put forward a list of 37 proposals it intends to withdraw. This includes the proposal for a Council Directive on equal treatment[1] presented 17 years ago in 2008.

    The Commission has consistently supported the Council Presidencies and the Member States to help them in making progress towards the adoption of the Council Directive. While a majority of the Member States have indicated their support for the proposal, unanimity is required and does not seem likely to be reached.

    In line with the interinstitutional agreement on better law making[2], the Commission provided the reasons proposing the intended withdrawals in the Annex IV of the 2025 Commission work programme, together with a time indication[3].

    The Commission will take due account of the positions of the European Parliament and of the Council on the intended withdrawals before taking a decision.

    Building a Union of Equality remains a key priority for the Commission, as demonstrated by the recent adoption of the Roadmap for Women’s Rights[4] and the preparation of new strategies on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer equality, anti-racism and gender equality.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52008PC0426.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/agree_interinstit/2016/512/oj/eng.
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/7617998c-86e6-4a74-b33c-249e8a7938cd_en?filename=COM_2025_45_1_annexes_EN.pdf.
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_681.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Regulation EU 631/2019 – E-001345/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Delivering on the EU’s climate targets[1] requires a swift decrease in greenhouse gas emissions from all sectors, including transport.

    The CO2 emission standards Regulation[2] sets targets to reduce emissions for new cars and vans, which creates long-term predictability for manufacturers and investors, while giving industry the necessary lead-time to adapt.

    This supports competitiveness, as EU manufacturers are strongly investing in zero-emission technologies and a strong home market is a crucial enabler for them to regain leadership in this area.

    From 2025, the limit value curve used for calculating car manufacturers’ specific targets has changed, taking into account recent developments in the relationship between the mass and CO2 emissions of new cars, including due to the increased uptake of battery electric vehicles.

    The CO2 targets apply to vehicles’ tailpipe emissions. This ensures that manufacturers implement innovative technologies, which reduce emissions of the vehicles when driven on the road.

    Emissions from other lifecycle stages of vehicles are regulated under separate pieces of EU legislation[3]. By end 2025, the Commission is required to adopt a methodology for assessing and reporting life-cycle CO2 emissions of vehicles.

    From June 2026, manufacturers may submit to the Commission life-cycle CO2 emissions data for their vehicles, calculated according to that methodology.

    • [1] Enshrined in the European Climate Law — http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/1119/oj.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/851/oj/eng.
    • [3] Such as the EU Emission Trading System Directive — http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/87/2024-03-01 and the Renewable Energy Directive — http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2018/2001/2024-07-16.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Blue Card scheme in the EU – E-001405/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Directive (EU) 2021/1883[1] applies to all Member States except Ireland and Denmark, in accordance with Protocol No 21[2] and Protocol No 22[3], annexed to the Treaty on the European Union (TEU) and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).

    Consequently, Denmark is not bound by EU legislation in the area of legal migration (opt-out), while Ireland has chosen to not opt-in to the directive.

    Directive (EU) 2021/1883 harmonises the conditions of entry and residence for third-country nationals for the purpose of highly qualified employment.

    Member States are required to put in place the necessary procedures in line with the relevant provisions of the directive and they remain competent to assess applications for an EU Blue Card. In all instances, in accordance with Article 79(5) of the TFEU, Member States retain the right to determine the number of admissions of third-country nationals seeking work in their territory.

    Regarding family reunification, Directive 2003/86/EC[4] applies, subject to some specific derogations. Article 4 of that directive enumerates the family members who are entitled to family reunification subject to compliance with the conditions laid down in this directive.

    These are the Blue Card holder’s spouse as well as minor dependent children, including adopted children. In addition, Member States may choose to authorise the entry and residence of other family members, including dependent ascending relatives, adult unmarried children, unmarried or registered partners with their dependent children in compliance with the conditions laid down in Directive 2003/86/EC.

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2021/1883 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 October 2021 on the conditions of entry to and residence in the Union of third-country nationals for the purpose of highly qualified employment, and repealing Council Directive 2009/50/EC, OJ L 382, 28.10.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2021/1883/oj.
    • [2] Consolidated version of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Protocol (No 21) on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, OJ C 202, 7.6.2016, p. 295, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/treaty/tfeu_2016/pro_21/oj.
    • [3] Consolidated version of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Protocol (No 22) on the position of Denmark, OJ C 326, 26.10.2012, p. 299, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/treaty/tfeu_2012/pro_22/oj.
    • [4] Council Directive 2003/86/EC of 22 September 2003 on the right to family reunification, OJ L 251, 3.10.2003, p. 12.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Development of life-saving medicines for rare diseases and bringing them to market – E-002031/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002031/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Aldo Patriciello (PfE), Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE), Anna Maria Cisint (PfE), Paolo Borchia (PfE), Silvia Sardone (PfE)

    The process of researching, developing and bringing life-saving drugs to market is hampered by significant financial costs, which often hinder access to innovative treatments, particularly for rare diseases.

    According to numerous industry experts and as documented in recent investigations, a significant number of promising drugs never reach the commercialisation stage because developers lack the funds needed to complete clinical trials, particularly for the transition phase from laboratory research to large-scale testing (known as ‘the valley of death’).

    Despite efforts to boost research into medicines for rare diseases, the number of medicines developed for rare diseases remains too low relative to patient numbers and therapeutic needs: there are more than 7 000 rare diseases and millions of Europeans have them.

    The Commission has a duty to ensure that everyone in the European Union has access to proper care, including life-saving therapies for rare diseases, through inclusive and sustainable health policies.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.What does the Commission have to say about the difficulties faced when researching and developing life-saving medicines?
    • 2.Could it inform Parliament how it plans to tackle this issue?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Israeli settlement products: alignment of EU policies with UN resolution – P-001801/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has been consistently clear in its position that settlements are illegal under international law and repeatedly condemned Israel’s settlement policy and the occupation of the Palestinian territory that began in 1967.

    As reiterated by the European Council on 27 June[1] and 17 October 2024[2], the EU has recalled the requirement for Israel, in exercising its right to defend itself, to fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, in all circumstances .

    EU positions and policies are fully aligned with United Nations (UN) resolutions on the status of the O ccupied Palestinian T erritory (OPT) and are therefore overall consistent with the conclusions of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion on the legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the OPT, including East Jerusalem, of 19 July 2024[3], as regards the duty of non-recognition, the duty to distinguish in the dealings with Israel between its territory and the OPT, and the duty of non-assistance.

    With regard to the duty to distinguish in the dealings with Israel between its territory and the OPT, the EU has taken care to fully comply with the obligations set out in paragraph 278 of the ICJ Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024 and point 4(d) of the UN General Council resolution of 13 September 2024[4].

    The Commission continues to monitor the situation in the OPT and has already listed nine individuals and five entities under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime for serious and systematic human rights abuses against Palestinians in the West Bank.

    The EU is firmly committed to a lasting and sustainable peace and has spared no effort to work with partners to revive the political process towards the implementation of a two-state solution.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/qa3lblga/euco-conclusions-27062024-en.pdf.
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/2pebccz2/20241017-euco-conclusions-en.pdf.
    • [3] Summary of the Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024, https://www.icj-cij.org/node/204176.
    • [4] https://docs.un.org/en/A/ES-10/L.31/Rev.1.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Alleged degrading treatment and gender-based abuses against activists at the hands of Italian police in Brescia, Italy – E-001068/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Member States are responsible for maintaining law and order and safeguarding internal security, and any action by national authorities, including national police officers, remains the responsibility of the Member State concerned, Italy in this instance.

    The Commission attaches great importance to the respect for the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons. Based on proposals by the Commission, the EU has, since 2010, adopted six Directives, aiming at a high level of fair trial rights[1]. They cover important procedural rights, including the right of access to a lawyer without undue delay after deprivation of liberty.

    Another key priority of the Commission is the rights of victims of crime. The 2012 Victims’ Rights Directive[2] provides for a set of rights to all victims of crime, including victims of crime committed by police officers, notably the right to be recognised and treated in a respectful, sensitive, tailored, professional and non-discriminatory manner.

    In 2023, the Commission adopted a proposal for a revision of the Victims’ Rights Directive which aims to further strengthen the rights of all victims of crime, notably the most vulnerable victims.

    Member States should promote and apply their law enforcement rules of conduct in full respect of their European and international human rights obligations.

    According to these obligations, national authorities should investigate individual cases of reported police misconduct and ensure access to justice.

    • [1] Directive 2010/64/EU on the right to interpretation and translation in criminal proceedings; Directive 2012/13/EU on the right to information in criminal proceedings; Directive 2013/48/EU on the right of access to a lawyer in criminal proceedings and in European arrest warrant proceedings, and on the right to have a third party informed upon deprivation of liberty and to communicate with third persons and with consular authorities while deprived of liberty; Directive (EU) 2016/343 on the strengthening of certain aspects of the presumption of innocence and the right to be present at the trial; Directive (EU) 2016/800 on procedural safeguards for children who are suspects and accused in criminal proceedings; Directive (EU) 2016/1919 on legal aid for suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings and for requested persons in European arrest warrant proceedings.
    • [2] Directive 2012/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime, and replacing Council Framework Decision 2001/220/JHA, OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 57.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – IRIS² satellite constellation and contracts with European industrial manufacturers – E-001134/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission acknowledges the importance of ensuring that the EU’s critical communication infrastructure remains sovereign and resilient.

    The regulation establishing the EU Space Programme and the EU Agency for the Space Programme[1] and the regulation establishing the EU Secure Connectivity Programme[2] provide that the Commission applies eligibility and participation conditions if it deems that this is necessary and appropriate to preserve the security, integrity and resilience of the operational EU systems.

    In particular, they require that economic operators providing critical components and services are fulfilling the following eligibility and participation conditions :

    a) The eligible legal entity is established in a Member State and its executive management structures are established in that Member State;

    b) The eligible legal entity commits to carry out all relevant activities in one or more Member States; and

    c) The eligible legal entity is not to be subject to control by a third country or by a third country entity.

    It therefore ensures that critical technologies required to deploy and operate IRIS2 are under EU control.

    • [1] OJ L 170, 12.5.2021 p.69, ELI, Article 24: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/696/oj.
    • [2] OJ L 79, 17.3.2023 p.1, ELI, Article 22: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/588/oj.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Mandatory relocation of migrants – doubts surrounding the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum – E-000588/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission refers the Honourable Member to its communication on the Common Implementation Plan[1] setting out the key actions required for the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum[2], including on relocation.

    The Asylum and Migration Management Regulation[3] (AMMR) establishes a system of permanent and flexible solidarity among Member States. Each Member State has full discretion to choose its contribution to this solidarity system, and can choose from relocation, financial contributions and alternative measures (in-kind support).

    According to the AMMR, this solidarity mechanism will start applying in June 2026.

    • [1] COM(2024) 251 final, available at: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/common-implementation-plan-pact-migration-and-asylum_en.
    • [2] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/pact-migration-and-asylum_en.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/1351 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on asylum and migration management, amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1147 and (EU) 2021/1060 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 604/2013, OJ L, 2024/1351, 22.5.2024, (ELI: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1351/oj/eng).
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Obligations concerning nationals who directly or indirectly support illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing – E-001562/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    One of the main pillars of Council Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008 (the IUU Regulation)[1] is action against EU nationals who have engaged in or supported illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The provisions regarding EU nationals cover both the prevention and sanction of support or engagement in IUU fishing by EU nationals.

    More specifically, Article 39(1) of the IUU Regulation prohibits EU nationals from supporting and engaging in IUU fishing. It further provides a non-exhaustive list of examples of such engagement and support, mentioning in particular engagement on board or as operators or beneficial owners of fishing vessels included in the EU IUU vessel list.

    However, the general prohibition to EU nationals from engaging in or supporting IUU fishing is not limited to involvement of IUU-listed vessels but IUU fishing activities in general.

    In addition, the obligation of Member States under Article 39(3) of the IUU Regulation to take action against EU nationals relates to those that have been identified as supporting or engaged in IUU fishing in general, not only to those that are involved with IUU-listed vessels.

    The Commission is working with Member States to provide support in the implementation of Article 40(1) of the IUU Regulation regarding the identification of information of EU nationals pertaining to legal, beneficial or financial interests in, or control of, fishing vessels flagged to a third country which they hold and the names of the vessels concerned.

    • [1] Council Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008 of 29 September 2008 establishing a Community system to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, amending Regulations (EEC) No 2847/93, (EC) No 1936/2001 and (EC) No 601/2004 and repealing Regulations (EC) No 1093/94 and (EC) No 1447/1999 (OJ L 286, 29.10.2008, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2008/1005/oj).
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Denunciation of statements by the President of Azerbaijan in support of the illegal separatist entity in Cyprus and the intention to recognise it – E-001498/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The High Representative/Vice-President of the Commission (HR/VP) has repeatedly refuted actions and statements aimed at upgrading the international status of the so-called, internationally not recognised, ‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’, which undermine efforts of the United Nations Secretary General to create an environment conducive to settlement talks.

    The EU recognises only the Republic of Cyprus as a subject of international law, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.

    The EU expects the same from its partners, who need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states within the framework of all international and regional fora, and to refrain from taking any steps that run contrary to this principle.

    This message has been clearly conveyed to the Azerbaijani authorities and the EU will continue to raise it at all levels in its political dialogue with Azerbaijan, as it was the case during HR/VP visit to Baku on 25 April 2025.

    The EU has monitored with concern developments since the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) Summit in Samarkand, in November 2022, regarding the acceptance of the Turkish Cypriot Community as an observer to this organisation.

    A s tatement of the European External Action Service Spokesperson was issued, expressing a clear position about these developments[1]. The EU has actively and continuously expressed these preoccupations to the members of the OTS, at all levels.

    This has been done through HR/VP statements, lately in July (after the informal OTS Summit in Azerbaijan)[2] and November 2024 respectively[3].

    The EU remains fully committed to ensuring that the above-mentioned UNSC resolutions and generally recognised principles and norms of international law, particularly with respect to the sovereignty, independence and integrity of states, are fully upheld.

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/cyprus-statement-spokesperson-observer-status-turkish-cypriot-secessionist-entity-organisation_en?s=230.
    • [2] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/node/443430_fr.
    • [3] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/ots-statement-hrvp-josep-borrell-attempts-legitimise-turkish-cypriot-secessionist-entity_en.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Future role and funding of the EU Rapid Deployment Capacity – E-001535/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU Rapid Deployment Capacity (EU RDC) is a flagship initiative of the Strategic Compass[1]. It is now operational as a robust and scalable military instrument that can be deployed in a swift manner to respond to crises outside EU borders. The EU RDC is composed of EU Battlegroups and pre-identified forces and capabilities provided by Member States.

    Over the past three years, preparatory work has focused on: securing the necessary forces and capabilities; supporting their readiness and interoperability through EU live exercises; strengthening the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (staffing, communication and information systems); and conducting advance planning. The operational readiness, however, requires continuous effort, notably Member States’ commitment.

    Since the EU RDC is implemented under the EU Common Security and Defence Policy, the financing of common costs related to its deployment and live exercises is done through the European Peace Facility[2]. The remainder of the costs related to the EU RDC is borne by Member States on a ‘costs lie where they fall’ basis.

    The deployment of the EU RDC, as is the case for all EU military operations, will require a unanimous decision of the Member States.

    More generally, in line with Article 42 of the Treaty on European Union, the EU RDC, as all actions conducted in the framework of the Common Security and Defence Policy, ‘shall not prejudice the specific character of the security and defence policy of certain Member States’[3].

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/strategic-compass-security-and-defence-1_en..
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32024D2846.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:12008M042.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Schengen Information System (SIS) reporting on returns – E-001100/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The statistical data collected by the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (eu-LISA) and by the statistical office of the European Union (Eurostat) have different scope and cover different time periods[1].

    The data collected by eu-LISA include return alerts entered in the Schengen Information System (SIS)[2]; Member States may refrain from entering such alerts in some cases[3].

    The statistics on SIS hits only cover the cases where the person subject to a SIS return alert left the territory of the Member States through a different Member State than the one that issued the alert.

    Teams composed of Commission and Member States’ experts evaluate the application of the Schengen acquis by Member States in accordance with Council Regulation (EU) 2022/922[4], including in the areas of return and of the large-scale information systems supporting the application of the Schengen acquis, such as SIS.

    While, according to eu-LISA’s annual statistics for 2023, all Member States that participate in Regulation (EU) 2018/1860 created return alerts, some experienced delays and, in some cases, return decisions were not systematically followed by a SIS alert.

    As follow-up to the Schengen evaluations, the Commission is working with Member States to ensure a seamless connection between return case management systems and the SIS to avoid delays and inconsistencies.

    The Commission does not collect statistics on the number of cases where a Member State executes the return decision issued by another Member State.

    • [1] Eurostat statistics cover the period between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2023 while the eu-LISA statistics cover the period between 7 March 2023 and 31 December 2023.
    • [2] Article 3 of Regulation (EU) 2018/1860 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 November 2018 on the use of the Schengen Information System for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals, OJ L 312, 7.12.2018, p. 1-13.
    • [3] Article 3(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1860.
    • [4] Council Regulation (EU) 2022/922 of 9 June 2022 on the establishment and operation of an evaluation and monitoring mechanism to verify the application of the Schengen acquis, and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1053/2013, OJ L 160, 15.6.2022, p. 1-27.
    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – The taxation of the EU’s financial sector-Options and experiences – 11-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This study provides a mapping of the existing financial sector taxes applied in EU Member States and summarises the empirical evidence on the various effects associated with individual financial sector taxes. It focuses on the taxation of financial transactions, bank taxes, and the taxation of financial services. Financial sector taxes are assessed in terms of their effect on fragmentation and the coherence of the EU financial sector. The study also sketches some directions for reform to improve coherence of financial sector taxation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Next Committee meeting: 24 June 2025 (Brussels) – Committee on Culture and Education

    Source: European Parliament

    The next CULT Committee meeting will take place on: Tuesday, 24 June, 2025, 9.15 – 10.00 (Coordinators’ meeting) and 14.30 – 17.00 in meeting room SPINELLI 3G2.

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Proposal for revision of Directive 2014/45/EU — Eliminates the possibility of exceptions to motorcycle IPOs – P-002245/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002245/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sérgio Humberto (PPE), Sebastião Bugalho (PPE), Paulo Cunha (PPE), Ana Miguel Pedro (PPE), Hélder Sousa Silva (PPE), Paulo Do Nascimento Cabral (PPE)

    The Commission has proposed a revision of Directive 2014/45/EU that removes the exemption from mandatory periodic inspections on motorcycles with an engine displacement of more than 125 cm³, making inspections mandatory in the Member States. It has calculated that some 10 % of road accidents may be caused by technical defects. The purpose of the revised version is to standardise rules, improve road safety and reduce pollutant emissions.

    Some countries have adopted different approaches tailored to their circumstances, including other road safety measures such as upgrades to infrastructure and the provision of education on safe driving practices. Portugal has opted for alternative measures that adapt policies to its specific road-infrastructure and administrative needs.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.In the proposal for a directive, the Commission states that 10 % of accidents are caused by technical defects. What studies did the Commission base that figure on?
    • 2.With regard to the stakeholders it consulted, does the Commission not share the view that the bias was towards industrial associations, to the detriment of associations of users of two-wheeled vehicles?
    • 3.At a time when the Commission is taking steps to cut red tape and simplify, does it not consider that this proposal for a directive goes in the opposite direction by imposing more rules and obstacles to movement without a proper impact assessment having been carried out?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    Last updated: 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Oral question – ‘Choose Europe for Science’ plan and intrusion of wokism at universities – O-000021/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for oral answer  O-000021/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 142
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Galato Alexandraki (ECR), Christophe Bay (PfE), Barbara Bonte (PfE), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Anna Bryłka (PfE), Marie Dauchy (PfE), Valérie Deloge (PfE), Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR), Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE), Tomasz Froelich (ESN), Angéline Furet (PfE), Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal (PfE), Catherine Griset (PfE), Jorge Martín Frías (PfE), Fernand Kartheiser (NI), Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE), Fabrice Leggeri (PfE), Julien Leonardelli (PfE), Tiago Moreira de Sá (PfE), Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE), Philippe Olivier (PfE), Gilles Pennelle (PfE), Pascale Piera (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Julie Rechagneux (PfE), Volker Schnurrbusch (ESN), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), Dominik Tarczyński (ECR), Hermann Tertsch (PfE), Rody Tolassy (PfE), Laurence Trochu (ECR), Sebastian Tynkkynen (ECR), Matthieu Valet (PfE), Séverine Werbrouck (PfE), Ondřej Knotek (PfE)

    On 5 May 2025, President Emmanuel Macron launched the ‘Choose Europe for Science’ initiative at the Sorbonne amphitheatre to make France and Europe more attractive to researchers and entrepreneurs[1]. This initiative foresees an additional investment of EUR 100 million[2]. For her part, Commission President Von der Leyen proposed EUR 500 million to make Europe a ‘pole of attraction’. The 2030 target is to increase investment in R&D to 3% of GDP. Behind this plan is mainly the desire to attract researchers fleeing the United States, where budget cuts have been decided by the Trump administration, with the aim of countering the influence of wokism in American universities[3].

    • 1.What specific actions does the Commission intend to take to combat wokism and to re-establish universities as places of knowledge and excellence?
    • 2.How will the announced funds be used? To what extent will they primarily benefit European researchers and students in order to improve their working conditions?

    Submitted: 10.6.2025

    Lapses: 11.9.2025

    • [1] Launch of “Choose Europe for Science” at the Sorbonne, Élysée, 5 May 2025, URL: https://www.elysee.fr/en/emmanuel-macron/2025/05/05/launch-of-choose-europe-for-science-at-the-sorbonne
    • [2] Emmanuel Macron annonce un nouvel investissement de 100 millions d’euros pour séduire les chercheurs étrangers [Emmanuel Macron announces a new investment of EUR 100 million to attract foreign researchers], Le Monde, 5 May 2025, URL: :https://www.lemonde.fr/sciences/article/2025/05/05/emmanuel-macron-annonce-un-nouvel-investissement-de-100-millions-d-euros-pour-seduire-les-chercheurs-etrangers_6603132_1650685.html
    • [3] Choose Europe for Science : pour les scientifiques américains, un accueil en France dans des universités délabrées [Choose Europe for Science: American scientists welcomed to France amid dilapidated universities], Libération, 4 May 2025, URL: https://www.liberation.fr/sciences/choose-europe-for-science-pour-les-scientifiques-americains-un-accueil-en-france-dans-des-universites-delabrees-20250504_QGTCYN5GDJAFTFL7J3OSK3J74I/

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Freeze on cost of 2025/26 garden waste bin permits

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Garden Waste Permits from Highland Council are now available for the 2025/26 season. To support continued garden waste recycling, the price for the upcoming 2025/26 permit will remain unchanged at £48.95 per permit, the same as last year. There are between 19 and 20 collections per season depending on which day of the week collections fall, which equates to approximately £2.50 per collection for each garden waste bin.

    Councillor Graham MacKenzie, Chair of the Communities and Place Committee said: “Although our service costs have gone up, the Council has agreed to freeze the price of the garden waste permit at £48.95 this year, in light of ongoing financial pressures faced by many households. By maintaining the price, we can avoid passing on any increases to our customers this year. We hope this decision encourages our current customers to keep up their fantastic recycling efforts and inspires others to sign up and join the service.”

    Permits are now available to purchase online and through the Service Point network for the 2025/26 permit season.

    Current 2024/25 permit holders will receive renewal reminders over the coming weeks and the optional fortnightly garden waste collection service is also available to new customers who live within the designated collection areas. Householders can visit the Council’s website to check if they live in a garden waste collection service area. 

    Councillor MacKenzie continued: “Recycling garden waste like grass cuttings, leaves, branches, hedge trimmings and flowers plays a key role in our overall recycling efforts here in Highland. People often think of recycling as just paper, cardboard, cans, and plastics—but garden waste is just as important and makes a real difference to our recycling rates. Garden waste could be composted at home or taken to Household Waste Recycling Centres or recycled through the garden waste collection service rather than being thrown away in non-recyclable waste bins. It is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint to create a healthier, more sustainable Highland and to help combat climate change.”

    The new permit season starts on Monday 1 September 2025 and runs to 31 August 2026, with a winter break in the months of December, January and February. Demand for permits will be high in the weeks immediately prior to the 2025/26 service commencing in September, therefore householders are encouraged to sign-up by 1 August to ensure they receive permits in time for the first collections.

    Customers can continue to order garden waste permits after 1 August; however, the Council cannot guarantee that permits ordered beyond this date will arrive in time for the first collections of the 2025/26 permit year.

    The service is optional, and householders are also able to take their garden waste along to their local Household Waste Recycling Centre free of charge.

    For more information, please visit www.highland.gov.uk/gardenwaste or e-mail recycle@highland.gov.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inverness Voted Top City For Outdoor Enthusiasts

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Inverness has just been named the best city in Scotland for outdoor enthusiasts, according to new research by LNER.

    The study, commissioned by the train company, analysed 71 towns and cities across England and Scotland across five travel themes: family-friendly, sustainability, culture, outdoor experiences, and food. 

    Welcoming the news of the city receiving a top rating, City Leader Councillor Ian Brown said:

    Welcoming the news of the city receiving a top rating, City Leader Councillor Ian Brown said: “Inverness has long been known as the gateway to the Highlands, and it’s easy to see why. As a vibrant hub for visitors from across the UK and beyond, the city offers seamless access to some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes and outdoor experiences. From paddling on the legendary waters of Loch Ness to cycling through scenic routes that connect to the wider Highland region, or setting off on iconic trails like the Great Glen Way, the city is a launchpad for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

    “We’re equally proud of our green spaces, from the peaceful Merkinch Local Nature Reserve and Ness Islands to the Inverness Botanic Gardens, which celebrated 30 years 2023. This unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor experiences, and rich cultural heritage, all wrapped in the warm Highland welcome we’re known for, makes Inverness a truly special place to visit.”

    Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans added: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see LNER recognise Inverness as the best city for outdoor enthusiasts. Their recognition reinforces the city’s appeal as a sustainable, experience rich destination, something we’ve always known and are thrilled to see celebrated on a national stage.

    “The Inverness Castle Experience will offer an immersive journey into contemporary Highland life, celebrating the Spirit of the Highlands through engaging stories, exhibits and experiences. It will also signpost visitors to all areas of the Highlands and encourage them to explore.”

    The project has received £30m in investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and a range of other partners.

    David Flesher, Commercial Director at LNER, said: “When you’re choosing where to go, it’s not always easy to know what a city is really best at—especially if you’re trying to plan something special. This research helps take out the guesswork and shows what different places have to offer.

    “We hope this guide helps people make more informed choices, whether they’re planning a day trip or a longer summer break. There are so many brilliant destinations on our route, and this is just one more way to celebrate them.”

    The LNER study is available here 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –