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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – A joint body to coordinate the reconstruction of Ukraine? – E-002036/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002036/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vasile Dîncu (S&D)

    In preparing for the reconstruction of Ukraine, a joint Romanian-Moldovan initiative with that precise aim in mind could serve as a model for regional coordination.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to include Romania and the Republic of Moldova, via a joint framework of this kind formed by those two countries, in the European mechanisms for planning and implementing the reconstruction of Ukraine, hence ensuring an integrated regional approach?
    • 2.Might a trilateral (Romania-Moldova-Ukraine) chamber of commerce be viewed as an equal voice/dialogue partner for the thorough preparation of the reconstruction of Ukraine which, if properly planned, could constitute a form of rebirth, with the prospect of it becoming a member of the EU?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – European Court of Auditors’ Special Report 11/2025: consequences of unduly paying grants to organisations wrongly categorised as NGOs – E-002046/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002046/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marieke Ehlers (PfE), Auke Zijlstra (PfE), Sebastiaan Stöteler (PfE), Sebastian Kruis (PfE), Rachel Blom (PfE), Ton Diepeveen (PfE)

    Between 2021 and 2023, according to Special Report 11/2025 of the European Court of Auditors (ECA), 90% (over 70 000) of the entities that received EU funding were not categorised as NGOs or as non-NGOs in spite of the fact that NGO status is required under European rules in order to claim the grants concerned. The Court takes the view that that increases the risk of organisations being wrongly categorised as NGOs.

    In addition, there is as yet no guidance as to how to assess and penalise potential cases of failure to comply with the rules.

    • 1.What will the Commission do if a thorough assessment of classification, in line with the ECA’s recommendations, shows that European funds have been wrongly granted to organisations that do not qualify as NGOs?
    • 2.Will the Commission recover those funds?
    • 3.Will current agreements with organisations wrongly categorised as NGOs be terminated immediately?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Unlawful, inaccurate and outdated information in police databases and the consequences for European police cooperation – E-002017/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002017/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle (Renew)

    On 26 April 2025, Follow the Money reported that Dutch police databases contain large amounts of unlawful, inaccurate and outdated (biometric) data, collected and stored in insecure digital and physical locations over decades.[1] Despite numerous warnings from competent authorities (including the Personal Data Authority) and the Council of State[2], the Minister of Justice and Security has not yet ordered the removal of the data.[3] As large amounts of data are increasingly analysed automatically, this can lead to errors in investigations and to discrimination and stigmatisation of innocent people.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of these practices on the part of the Dutch police and of the fact that, despite warnings from competent authorities and experts, the data in question has not been removed?
    • 2.Does the Commission share the concern that this situation raises the likelihood that, in the context of European police cooperation, one Member State’s police forces may use unlawful and inaccurate data taken from another Member State’s police database[4]?
    • 3.What action will the Commission take vis-à-vis the Dutch Government if it fails to heed the warnings from the relevant authorities and have its police databases cleaned up, with a view to ensuring that Dutch police data can be used safely in the context of European police cooperation?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.ftm.nl/artikelen/politie-data-over-burgers-woo-stukken.
    • [2] The Personal Data Authority concluded that the collection of personal data by the police is not in line with the Dutch law transposing Directive 2016/680 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.
    • [3] https://www.raadvanstate.nl/adviezen/@146778/w16-24-00313-ii/.
    • [4] Prüm II Regulation; Directive on the exchange of information between the law enforcement authorities; Council Recommendation on operational law enforcement cooperation.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strengthening Europe’s chemical industry: EU Critical Chemicals Act initiative – E-002039/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002039/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Krzysztof Brejza (PPE)

    The European chemicals industry is facing severe challenges, exacerbated by high energy costs and fierce competition from non-EU countries benefiting from cheaper energy, including Russian resources. This has led to a widening trade deficit, especially in the production of critical molecules such as sodium carbonates, essential for industries such as glass production, detergents, agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. To address this, the EU Critical Chemicals Act, supported by Member States including France, Spain, Hungary and others, is a crucial step in ensuring the long-term resilience of Europe’s chemical sector. This initiative must focus on modernising chemical plants, reducing emissions and recognising strategic EU molecules, such as sodium carbonates, which are pivotal to Europe’s industrial base.

    • 1.Is the Commission considering proposing an EU Critical Chemicals Act to address challenges facing the European chemicals industry, which will recognise the EU’s strategic molecules – including, among others, sodium carbonates?
    • 2.How does the Commission plan to ensure the modernisation and long-term sustainability of Europe’s chemical industry, particularly by providing flexible funding options for investments aimed at reducing process emissions?
    • 3.What steps will the Commission take to protect EU production of strategic molecules and improve trade defence mechanisms against unfair practices?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Implementation of public consultations for national social climate plans – E-002023/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002023/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Leila Chaibi (The Left)

    Under Article 5 of Regulation (EU) 2023/955 on the Social Climate Fund, each Member State is required to submit a plan to the Commission following public consultation with local authorities, economic and social partners and civil society.

    However, public consultations have been insufficient, or non-existent, in the majority of Member States, including France, which has not organised any consultations despite requests to do so. These consultations are a necessary step to promote transparency and trust in national social climate plans. They help to identify local needs and improve the effectiveness of funding.

    In response to this situation, could the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.How does it monitor and assess the consultation process on national social climate plans in the Member States?
    • 2.Does it intend to take action against countries which fail to make the necessary arrangements to ensure public consultations in connection with the national social climate plans?
    • 3.As far as France is concerned, what measures does it intend to take to enforce the requirement and to ensure the effective involvement of stakeholders?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: New EU strategy for secure, prosperous and resilient Black Sea region

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 28 May 2025 Today the EU is putting forward a new strategy for a stable and secure Black Sea region. This Strategy aims to boost connections and growth, by linking Europe with the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and beyond. Amidst Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the strategy will also reinforce the EU’s geopolitical role as a reliable actor in the Black Sea region.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Warning on oak processionary moth issued ahead of hatching season

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Warning on oak processionary moth issued ahead of hatching season

    Public and construction trade vigilance needed as oak processionary moth (OPM) growth higher at start of greatest risk period

    Image credit: Henry Kuppen

    The public are being urged today (Wednesday 28 May) to be vigilant for any sightings of oak processionary moth caterpillars, a tree pest which can strip oak trees of their foliage and leave them susceptible to disease.

    The caterpillars – predominantly found in South East England – descend down oak trees in head-to-tail processionary form, occasionally taking the form of an arrow shape, earning them their name. They feed on the leaves as they migrate causing the leaves to sometimes drop off which negatively impacts their growth. This can weaken the tree and leave it more vulnerable to other stresses, such as drought and further diseases. 

    The warning has been issued today by the Forestry Commission who are urging the public to report any sightings via the TreeAlert portal or by email to opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk.

    Oak processionary moth was first identified in London in 2006 after being accidentally transported over from Europe in trees for planting. It has since spread to surrounding counties in the South East, and last July, a small outbreak of the caterpillars was found at a site designated free from the pest.

    OPM caterpillars and their nests, which are made of distinctive white silken webbing, contain hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation and should not be touched under any circumstances. The nests can be found in the trunk or branches of oak trees, and fade to a light brown over time. The public are urged never to try and dispose of the nests themselves. 

    Forestry Commission Oak Processionary Moth Programme Manager Dr Edward Straw said: 

    “The warm weather in spring has led to oak processionary moth growing quicker than in previous years. We’re already receiving reports of homeowners being affected by the caterpillars, coming out in painful rashes, and it is important those living and working in areas affected by oak processionary moth remain vigilant about the health risks they pose.

    “The Forestry Commission has a whole host of information online that can be used to identify the moth, simply visit managing oak processionary moth in England. If you spot the pest, report the sighting via our TreeAlert portal . Alternatively, you can email opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk.”

    The Forestry Commission continues to undertake a rapid management response and extensive surveillance work is in place to monitor the area and continue to direct appropriate control measures to prevent the potential spread of OPM.

    Professor Nicola Spence, UK Chief Plant Health Officer, said: 

    “Oak trees are an iconic and much-loved part of our British landscape. By reporting any sightings of the oak processionary moth to the Forestry Commission, we can all minimise the pest’s spread as well as reduce their impact on tree health. 

    “I would advise that members of the public living in London, the surrounding areas and Derbyshire, avoid any contact with the caterpillar and its nests, as this can cause irritation.”

    By identifying threats such as pests and diseases, we protect the benefits plants provide to the public, to wildlife, the environment, and our economy. More information can be found on the Plant Health Action.org website. 

    How to identify Oak processionary moth caterpillars 

    • Nests are typically dome or teardrop-shaped, averaging the size of a tennis ball. They are white when fresh, but soon become discoloured and brown. The caterpillars have black heads and bodies covered in long white hairs which contain proteins which can cause itchy rashes, eye, and throat irritations. They can also occasionally cause breathing difficulties in people and pets, so should not be touched under any circumstances. 
    • A public information leaflet covering how to identify OPM and methods to control is available,
    • There is also a document outlining species commonly confused with OPM which can be found here.
    • For more information, visit ‘Managing Oak Processionary Moth in England’. 

    Contact with Oak Processionary Moth

    • Following possible OPM contact, visit your pharmacist for relief from milder skin or eye irritations. Consult a GP or call NHS111 for more serious reactions. Contact a vet if animals are seriously affected. 
    • An interactive map showing the locations of recent confirmed reports of OPM and the national management zones is available.  
    • A toolkit for local authorities and larger landowners to help plan for and manage OPM has been developed by the Tree Council, in partnership with Forest Research. 
    • A guide for the policy changes to OPM management
    • The Tree Health Pilot scheme offers a local authority grant for oak with OPM. It supports local authorities in the OPM ’established area’ to organise surveying of oak trees for OPM and create an OPM management plan and communications strategy to understand the risks and appropriate management of the affected area. Funding is also available for communications materials such as signage, and biosecurity items including boot cleaning equipment and red tape/posts for cordoning off areas. For more information and details of how to apply see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tree-health-pilot-scheme-2024/grants-for-oak-with-oak-processionary-moth-opm

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    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lee Jae-myung Leads in Popularity Among South Korean Presidential Candidates — Poll

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SEOUL, May 28 (Xinhua) — Lee Jae-myung, the liberal Democratic Toburo Party’s presidential candidate, is more than 10 percentage points ahead of his main rival in the June 3 election, according to a poll by Flower Research released Wednesday.

    According to the data received, 48.8 percent of voters support Lee Jae-myung, while 37.7 percent support Kim Moon-soo, a candidate from the ruling conservative Civil Power Party. 10.7 percent of respondents are ready to vote for Lee Joon-suk, a candidate from the small conservative New Reform Party.

    The poll of 15,008 voters was conducted by Flower Research from May 24 to 27. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission cuts red tape and maximises impact of foreign aid investment

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 28 May 2025 The European Commission is increasing the efficiency and firepower of its External Action Guarantee (EAG), a key financial tool under the Global Gateway strategy that offers more affordable loans to unlock investments in partner countries around the world. In an increasingly complex geopolitical context, the EU is reaffirming its role as a global actor by strengthening its strategic and responsive capabilities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Questions and answers on the European Union’s strategic approach to the Black Sea region

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Questions and answers Brussels, 28 May 2025 The Black Sea is an area of significant geostrategic importance. It has accordingly an untapped potential for economic development and strategic transit routes. Strengthening our cooperation and fostering enhanced economic links will contribute to the competitiveness of the region and of the EU itself.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Public and Private Investment Strategies for Affordable and Social Housing – 03-06-2025 – Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union

    Source: European Parliament

    On 3 June 2025, from 14:30 to 17:30, the HOUS Special Committee will hold a public hearing on ‘Public and Private Investment Strategies for Affordable and Social Housing’.

    This hearing will examine the role of EU funds, public-private partnerships, and innovative financing models in providing affordable housing. It will also discuss how EU policy can better support housing to ensure adequate investment in affordable housing.

    The hearing will be structured around two panels. In the first panel experts will explore ways to unlock public investment for affordable housing. The second panel will focus on the mobilisation of private capital through Public-Private Partnerships.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Sustainable Housing and the Energy Transition – 02-06-2025 – Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union

    Source: European Parliament

    On 2 June 2025, from 15:30 to 17:30, the HOUS Special Committee will hold a public hearing on ‘Sustainable Housing and the Energy Transition: Affordable solutions for Climate – Resilient Homes’.

    The purpose of the hearing is to bring together HOUS Members with experts and stakeholders to reflect on one of the most pressing and complex challenges of our time: how to ensure access to affordable, sustainable, and energy-efficient housing while advancing Europe’s climate objectives. The hearing will be the opportunity to discuss how to ensure that the transformation of the housing sector can be inclusive and balanced, ensuring that no one is left behind.

    The public hearing will be structured around two panels. In the first panel experts will explore innovation and planning for sustainable and energy-efficient housing. The second panel will focus on affordability in the energy transition and how to balance goals and needs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Sustainable Housing and the Energy Transition – Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union

    Source: European Parliament

    On 2 June 2025, from 15:30 to 17:30, the HOUS Special Committee will hold a public hearing on ‘Sustainable Housing and the Energy Transition: Affordable solutions for Climate – Resilient Homes’.

    The purpose of the hearing is to bring together HOUS Members with experts and stakeholders to reflect on one of the most pressing and complex challenges of our time: how to ensure access to affordable, sustainable, and energy-efficient housing while advancing Europe’s climate objectives. The hearing will be the opportunity to discuss how to ensure that the transformation of the housing sector can be inclusive and balanced, ensuring that no one is left behind.

    The public hearing will be structured around two panels. In the first panel experts will explore innovation and planning for sustainable and energy-efficient housing. The second panel will focus on affordability in the energy transition and how to balance goals and needs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Public and Private Investment Strategies for Affordable and Social Housing – Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union

    Source: European Parliament

    On 3 June 2025, from 14:30 to 17:30, the HOUS Special Committee will hold a public hearing on ‘Public and Private Investment Strategies for Affordable and Social Housing’.

    This hearing will examine the role of EU funds, public-private partnerships, and innovative financing models in providing affordable housing. It will also discuss how EU policy can better support housing to ensure adequate investment in affordable housing. The hearing will be structured around two panels. In the first panel experts will explore ways to unlock public investment for affordable housing. The second panel will focus on the mobilisation of private capital through Public-Private Partnerships.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: France: EIB supports Bordeaux Métropole Énergies’ investment plan for decarbonisation in the Gironde department

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • A €90 million loan from the European Investment Bank will enable the company majority-owned by Bordeaux Métropole to strengthen its business as part of its 2024-2028 strategic plan.
    • The funding will cover multiple aspects of the plan, ranging from the development of renewable energy in the Gironde to the energy renovation of individual properties and jointly-owned buildings.
    • For the EIB, this financing is also part of the European Union’s plan for the continent’s energy and green transition known as Repower EU.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Bordeaux Métropole Énergies (BME) have signed a €90 million loan agreement in support of a strategic plan for this semi-public company which supports the energy transition of local authorities, businesses and individuals in the Gironde department.

    This funding aims at supporting BME in four areas of activity:

    • development of photovoltaic solutions in urban and rural areas for local authorities or businesses;
    • creation and extension of district heating and cooling networks for infrastructure sourced by renewable energy;
    • development of biogas production projects via anaerobic digestion and financing of energy efficiency renovation work on individual properties and jointly-owned buildings.

    “We are pleased to support Bordeaux Métropole Énergies in its energy transformation plan, which will have a positive impact across the Gironde department,” said EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle.

    “Promoting renewable energy, financing innovative solutions and reducing the energy bill of local authorities, businesses and individuals are the goals of the EIB in terms of climate action and the energy transition, so that EU financing can benefit everyone living in local communities.”

    “The EIB’s support marks an important step for BME and its enterprises in their ability to play a key strategic and operational role in building a carbon-neutral territory by 2050,” said Claudine Bichet, Chair of BME’s Board of Directors.

    “It enables us to step up our investment in energy and low-carbon solutions along with local authorities and companies in the Gironde department,” said BME Managing Director Audrey Dugal.

    For BME, this funding will make it possible to implement the commitments set out in its roadmap published in 2024. It boosts the group’s ability to invest in the region to develop solar photovoltaic projects on roofs, car parks and in ground-based power plants, generate renewable heating and cooling networks, produce biogas and increase the energy-efficient renovation of buildings.

    For the EIB, this financing is part of a long tradition of supporting local authorities in France. It also forms part of the Bank’s climate action activity, which is one of the EIB’s strategic priorities, as well as supporting the REPowerEU programme, launched by the European Commission in 2022, aimed at reducing Europe’s dependence on fossil fuels and accelerating the green energy transition. By helping people to renovate their homes, this funding ultimately aims to help make the housing sector more low-carbon in France and across the European Union.

    Background information

    About the EIB

    The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives in climate action, environment, digitalisation, technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.

    In 2024 the EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in Europe and across the world. In France, the EIB Group signed more than 100 operations in 2024 for a total amount of €12.6 billion. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    About the Bordeaux Métropole Energies Group

    A major player in local energy transition, Bordeaux Métropole Energies (BME) is a group composed of four subsidiaries (Gaz de Bordeaux, Mixener, Néomix, Regaz-Bordeaux) and two brands (Facirénov and Via33), all committed to decarbonisation. They support local authorities, businesses and individuals in their energy revolution and decarbonisation through energy renovation activities and the construction of a local and diversified energy mix (biogas, solar, heating and cooling, and renewables). BME has been a local semi-public company since 2017 and its shareholding structure comprises public partners such as Bordeaux Métropole (67.9%), private players like Engie (20%), Banque des Territoires (12%) and 13 municipalities of the Bordeaux region (0.1%).

    Bordeaux Metropole Eau Potable
    EIB supports Bordeaux Métropole Énergies’ investment plan for decarbonisation in the Gironde department
    ©EIB
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    Bordeaux Metropole Eau Potable
    EIB supports Bordeaux Métropole Énergies’ investment plan for decarbonisation in the Gironde department
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Predatory contracts for the supply of vaccines during the pandemic – E-002009/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002009/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)

    The decision of the European Court of Justice – establishing that the European Commission was wrong to withhold an explanation for its rejection of a journalist’s request for access to the messages exchanged between the President of the Commission and the President of Pfizer during the vaccine negotiations – completely fails to address the crux of the matter. It does not respond to the public call for the contracts to be published in their entirety, including details on the exact quantities and the terms and conditions of the contracts for the supply of vaccines during the pandemic. It also certainly fails to highlight the real scale of the problem, as well as the heavy liability left unattributed.

    The matter is linked to fierce competition between pharmaceutical groups for ‘a slice of the pie’ – i.e. taxpayers’ money – with the the EU institutions fraternising with monopolistic groups.

    Can the Commission therefore answer the following:

    • 1.What view does it take of the fact that it is the Commission’s own responsibility to satisfy the public call for all contracts to be published in full – with their terms, conditions and quantities – so that the people know how many vaccines they paid for and why?
    • 2.What view does it take of the fact that political and criminal liability needs to be attributed to those responsible for the predatory contracts that were demonstrably signed not only with this group but also with the others that concluded contracts with the EU for the supply of vaccines?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Birds Directive and the safeguarding of nesting sites – E-002011/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002011/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Sebastian Everding (The Left), Danilo Della Valle (The Left), Carolina Morace (The Left)

    The Birds Directive[1] prohibits, with very limited exceptions, the deliberate destruction or damage of nests and eggs, as well as the removal of nests.

    Felling a tree or cutting a branch hosting a nest inevitably results in the destruction of the nest and any eggs it may contain, and, by their nature, such actions are deliberate. Can the Commission therefore clarify the following:

    • 1.Does the prohibition established by the Birds Directive imply that, in areas frequented by bird species, the felling and pruning of trees or shrubs should be avoided during the breeding season? In most cases, nests are not visible from the ground, making it impossible to selectively preserve the specific vegetation in which they are located.
    • 2.Does the same principle apply to the disturbance or alteration of nesting habitats such as cavities, crevices, shelters (including those of anthropogenic origin), sandy formations, meadows, and pastures used by certain species for nesting?
    • 3.Does the Commission consider it appropriate to encourage Member States to ensure the protection of green spaces – both urban and non-urban – located outside Natura 2000 sites, but regularly frequented by species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    • [1] Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds (OJ L 20, 26.1.2010, p. 7, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2009/147/oj).
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Mink farming and the protection of animal welfare – E-002013/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002013/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sigrid Friis (Renew), Maria Noichl (S&D), Petras Auštrevičius (Renew), Günther Sidl (S&D), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE), Maria Zacharia (NI), Anna Strolenberg (Verts/ALE)

    Council Directive 98/58/EC of 20 July 1998 concerning the protection of animals kept for farming purposes[1] explicitly includes animals bred for fur production. Articles 3 and 4, along with the relevant provisions in the Annex, set out obligations that apply to mink farming.

    In 2023, 24 scientists addressed an open letter to the Commission, presenting assessments such as:

    ‘There is no doubt that the practice of farming animals for fur breaches the most fundamental principles of animal welfare. It has never been possible to design a farming system in line with the species-specific needs of animals bred for their fur.’

    ‘The evidence is clear that no more research is needed to confirm that fur farming and animal welfare cannot go hand in hand.’

    In light of this, we ask the Commission:

    • 1.Will the Commission provide a legal analysis as to whether the practice of keeping mink in small wire-mesh cages is compatible with the requirements set out in the Directive?
    • 2.Is the Commission legally obliged to ensure full compliance with this Directive, and does it consider itself committed to strengthening enforcement of EU legislation, particularly in view of the Commission President’s mission letters to the current Commissioners?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    • [1] OJ L 221, 8.8.1998, p. 23, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/1998/58/oj.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin took part in the jubilee parade of cadets

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The annual parade of the Moscow cadet movement “The connection between generations will not be broken!” dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War took place on Victory Square on Poklonnaya Gora.

    Before the parade began, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ and the Mayor of Moscow addressed the cadets with a welcoming speech. Sergei Sobyanin and the Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Sergei Kravtsov.

    “I congratulate you on the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, the glorious anniversary that we are celebrating on these bright May days. Moscow sacredly honors the legacy of the victors. Courage, fortitude, patriotism and selfless service to the Fatherland. Cadets and the entire younger generation grow and are brought up on these values. And today, on Poklonnaya Gora, we see the best representatives of the Moscow cadet movement in the parade formation. Next to you, shoulder to shoulder, are cadets from other cities of Russia and Belarus. This emphasizes the traditions of the cadet brotherhood. You are smart and talented, strong and courageous, energetic and purposeful. And such concepts as honor and dignity are the main principles of life for you. Your peers look up to you, your family and friends are rightfully proud of you. Everything is ahead of you. And I am sure that you will succeed, because where there are cadets, there is victory,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ congratulated the cadets on the holiday.

    “Moscow has truly changed beyond recognition in recent years. It is a wonderful city, convenient for living, beautiful, which really reflects the general development of our entire state. Many thanks to Sergei Semyonovich Sobyanin, the City Hall, all those who work to beautify and improve all aspects of Muscovites’ lives. Of course, thanks to all of us, to all our people, to all working people, to all who love their country and work for its prosperity,” noted Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus’ Kirill.

    The Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Sergey Kravtsov emphasized that Moscow is becoming the center of the cadet brotherhood, which is based on spiritual and moral values, courage and loyalty to traditions. Today, a strategy for the development of cadet education is being developed. 510 thousand children are studying in cadet and Cossack corps and schools, educational organizations with cadet and Cossack classes.

    “The Moscow Cadet Movement unites young patriots who are ready to take up the baton of serving the Fatherland from their great-grandfathers, grandfathers, and fathers. Cadets are the golden fund of the Russian state. The future of the country is in your hands. And now your main task is to comprehend the world, study science, and get good and excellent grades. Cadet – that sounds proud. Love for the Fatherland is not just words, but deeds,” added Sergey Kravtsov.

    The parade was attended by seven thousand people. Among them were combat veterans, including participants in the special military operation (SVO), representatives of legislative and executive authorities, law enforcement agencies and public organizations, teachers, parents and students from the capital’s schools.

    On behalf of the Moscow cadet movement, Artem Lazorev, a student of school No. 1794 named after A.S. Chufistov, spoke.

    “In May, we celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. We are proud of the feat of our ancestors. A feat that will be inscribed in history and in our hearts for centuries. We will be proud that we continue the work of our fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers. We are preparing to serve our great Motherland. We remember them, we thank them. The connection between generations will not be broken,” the cadet thanked.

    More than three thousand cadets took part in the parade – 52 parade units. Among them:

    — 43 ceremonial units of students from cadet classes of comprehensive schools in Moscow;

    — three ceremonial units of students from federal general education institutions: the Alexander Nevsky Cadet Corps of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation, the M.A. Sholokhov Moscow Presidential Cadet School of the National Guard of the Russian Federation, and the Moscow Suvorov Military School of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation;

    — a ceremonial crew of the cadet boarding school with initial flight training named after three times Hero of the Soviet Union A.I. Pokryshkin (city of Fryazino, Moscow region);

    – four parade units from Lugansk, Kherson, Izhevsk and Perm;

    — a ceremonial formation of the cadet delegation from Belarus (city of Brest).

    The Moscow Cadet Movement Parade has been held since 2015. Its goal is to increase the prestige of the capital’s cadet education, to develop in young people a sense of pride in the history of the country and belonging to the cadet brotherhood, and to cultivate a readiness to serve the Fatherland.

    Festival-forum of the Moscow cadet movement

    This year, the Moscow Cadet Movement Festival and Forum began after the parade. The practical cluster for cadets and other guests hosts interactive master classes and exhibitions on tactical medicine, UAV control, VR training and fire training. Speaker sessions are also held here with the participation of Heroes of the Fatherland, representatives of the veteran community, government bodies, popular athletes and opinion leaders in the field of patriotic education of youth. These meetings are of greatest interest to educators, parents and teachers.

    The sports cluster hosts tournaments in team sports and tactical games: basketball, handball, mini-football, tag rugby, laser tag and archery tag. Guests can also attend master classes organized by sports federations, autograph sessions and meetings with famous athletes.

    The career guidance cluster features an exhibition of leading universities – partners of the Cadet Class in a Moscow School project and law enforcement agencies, interactive career guidance platforms and demonstration performances.

    In the creative cluster, spectators will see performances by the best creative cadet groups, exhibitions and photo zones on the theme of traditional crafts and Cossack culture.

    The festival-forum will end with a gala concert featuring popular domestic performers.

    Cadet education in Moscow

    In total, the cadet movement in the capital includes more than 30 thousand children. It has a banner approved by the Heraldic Council under the President of the Russian Federation, presented by the Mayor of Moscow and consecrated by the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus’.

    In Moscow schools, cadet education is one of the types of specialized training aimed at preparing students for military and civil service. The project began in 2014 with the first 70 cadet classes. They are now open in 236 schools.

    “Cadet education is one of the most popular in Moscow schools. More than 28 thousand children study in specialized classes. They are brought up in the best cadet traditions – with an emphasis on erudition, physical development, service to the Motherland and people. Many children join volunteer organizations and choose a military career,” the Mayor of Moscow wrote in

    on your telegram channel.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin

    Cadets are mainly trained in daytime mode from the seventh to the 11th grade. Cadet classes with round-the-clock stay in the system Department of Education and Science of the City of Moscow are available at two cadet boarding schools (the First Moscow Cadet Corps and Cadet Boarding School No. 5), as well as at the Police College.

    There are also five cadet educational institutions of federal subordination in Moscow. These are the Moscow Suvorov Military School, the Moscow Presidential Cadet School named after M.A. Sholokhov of the National Guard of the Russian Federation, the Cadet School of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation named after Alexander Nevsky, the Moscow Cadet Corps “Boarding School for Pupils of the Ministry of Defense of Russia” and the Moscow Military Music School of the Ministry of Defense of Russia.

    Children are selected for cadet classes of city schools based on their academic achievements, physical development and health, and their degree of focus on the future choice of a military or civil servant profession. The profile of cadet education is provided by ministries and departments of the security forces, including the Russian Ministry of Defense, the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, and the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs. Together with them, schools determine the subject profile and a variable set of additional general development programs for cadet classes depending on the specifics of the department, and also provide in-depth study of Russian history.

    In 2024, more than 90 percent of graduates of cadet classes and institutions entered higher education institutions and secondary vocational education organizations, including law enforcement agencies.

    Every year, Moscow cadets participate in city events of patriotic orientation. Among them:

    — the parade of the Moscow city cadet movement “The connection between generations will not be broken!” dedicated to the victory in the Great Patriotic War;

    — Moscow meta-subject Olympiad “The connection between generations will not be broken”;

    — Cadet Class Day at the Victory Museum (standing watch as an honor guard at post No. 1 near the Flame of Memory and Glory on Poklonnaya Hill);

    — educational project “Cadet Day at VDNKh”;

    – Cadet Spartakiad;

    — city competition “Review of the formation and songs. “March to the victors!””;

    — events dedicated to days of military glory and memorable dates in Russia;

    — events held by public and veteran organizations of Moscow: Moscow City Council of Veterans of War, Labor, Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies; Club of Heroes of the Soviet Union, Heroes of the Russian Federation and Full Cavaliers of the Order of Glory of the City of Moscow and the Moscow Region; Regional Public Fund for the Support of Heroes of the Soviet Union and Heroes of the Russian Federation named after General E.N. Kocheshkov; Interregional Public Fund for Social Security “Law and Order-Shield”.

    In the 2024/2025 academic year, 895 students of cadet classes became winners and prize-winners of the meta-subject Olympiad “The Connection between Generations Will Not Be Broken”. More than six thousand cadets passed the demonstration exam. More than eight thousand students attended classes in 20 areas of the cycle of introductory professional trials “Cadet Class – Path to the Profession” and career guidance events at partner universities.

    Among the cadets’ sporting achievements is passing the standards of the “Ready for Labor and Defense” (GTO) complex. Thus, 3,134 cadets became holders of the gold GTO badge, 2,076 people became holders of the silver badge, and 1,873 students became holders of the bronze badge.

    Patriotic education of youth

    Patriotic education is an integral part of the educational process in the Moscow education system.

    The main areas of this work include preserving the continuity of generations. Priorities include perpetuating the memory of the participants in the Great Patriotic War and implementing joint projects with veterans’ organizations. In the system of the Moscow Department of Education and Science, more than 70 schools and colleges are named after heroes. For example, in recent years, the capital’s schools have been named after V.A. Matrosov, R. Sorge, A.N. Samsonov, M.V. Grizodubova. In 2024, the name of A.S. Chufistov, director of school No. 1794 who died in the SVO, was perpetuated.

    Every year, together with the city’s veteran organizations, about a thousand joint projects are implemented, including museum-historical Olympiads, competitions, meetings with students in school museums, and courage lessons.

    Since 2001, the Heroes’ Cup review competition has been held for the best organization of patriotic education in educational organizations of the capital’s Department of Education and Science. The competition takes into account the presence of volunteer and young army units, sports and tourist sections and associations, as well as the number of children attending them. Important components of the assessment are the work of children in caring for memorial sites under the patronage of the educational organization, the quality of passing five-day training camps and fulfilling the standards of the GTO complex. All subordinate educational organizations participate in the competition.

    Museum pedagogy is developing. There are more than 1,100 museums in the capital’s schools. Of these, more than 600 are dedicated to the history of Russia, including the Great Patriotic War and the special military operation. Military personnel take an active part in organizing exhibitions: they donate personal belongings and documents to museums, and also hold meetings with children.

    In the 2024/2025 academic year, military-patriotic clubs began to develop in the Moscow education system as associations of additional education. From September to May, their number increased from 193 to more than 400. Currently, over 22 thousand people are involved in military-patriotic clubs.

    The city’s educational institutions closely cooperate with the Victory Museum on Poklonnaya Hill. Together with the largest museum complex in Russia dedicated to the history of the Great Patriotic War and World War II, a project such as the educational and historical quest “The Feat of the People” is being implemented. It is visited by 103 thousand people per year.

    The interactive excursion program is of great interest “Battle for Moscow. First Victory”The exhibition at the Victory Museum includes five three-dimensional interactive panoramas, 24 multimedia complexes, more than 1.7 thousand exhibits, including personal belongings of soldiers, generals and people’s militia fighters, over 3.5 thousand photographs, over a thousand scanned documents and over two thousand reference materials. The exhibition is visited by 60 thousand people per year.

     

    Together with the Russian Orthodox Church, the Victory Museum is holding an interactive tour, “A Journey into History. Faith in Victory.” The project tells about the contribution of believers — Orthodox and representatives of other faiths — to the fight against fascism and the approach of the Great Victory. Schoolchildren will learn about the exploits of partisan priests, the origin of the expression “sister of mercy,” and the qualities that warrior defenders cultivate in themselves. The annual number of excursionists is 25 thousand people.

    Another direction of patriotic education of youth is conducting lessons “Conversations about the important”. Each school week in educational institutions of the city begins with the raising of the State Flag of the Russian Federation and the performance of the anthem. Classes of the cycle “Conversations about the important” are held, dedicated to the peoples of Russia, its history, culture, nature.

    These classes are also held at the sites of additional education centers and cultural institutions. In September 2024, the project “Conversations about the Important in the Museum of Contemporary History of Russia” began, which was organized by the State Central Museum of Contemporary History of Russia and the Moscow Center for Educational Practices. Excursions dedicated to significant events in the history of Russia in the 19th-21st centuries were attended by more than 10 thousand schoolchildren and students;

    Young people actively participate in the volunteer movement. Every year, students from schools and colleges, under whose patronage there are more than a thousand objects of military glory, take part in citywide memorial and patronage events.

    Other areas of volunteer work include social, environmental, sports, cultural, media volunteering, professional and cyber volunteering.

    On the basis of schools and colleges, 22 support sites have been created, which are operators of volunteer projects and actions. More than 100 thousand students actively participate in volunteer squads;

    An important area of patriotic education is preparing young people for military service. Every year, 10th graders and second-year college students attend five-day training camps as part of the study of the program “Fundamentals of Security and Defense of the Homeland.”

    This year, the training camp is being held at the Patriot Health and Educational Center, the Avangard Educational and Methodological Center, the Preobrazhensky Defense and Sports Center, and military units. More than 40,000 people will take part in the training camp. The children will learn the basics of military topography and military regulations, and acquire military medical, drill, tactical, fire, and technical training skills;

    In addition, more than 55 thousand Moscow schoolchildren participate in the All-Russian military-patriotic public movement “Yunarmiya”. The capital’s Yunarmiya members take part in events held by the main headquarters of the movement. The largest of them are ceremonial events dedicated to memorable dates and days of military glory of Russia (more than 25 thousand participants), the All-Russian military-patriotic game “Zarnitsa 2.0” (more than 17 thousand participants) and the All-Russian children’s and youth festival “Voroshilov shooter” (more than five thousand participants);

    The work of directors’ education advisers is of great importance in the patriotic education of young people. This position was introduced in Moscow schools and colleges in September 2023 as part of the federal project “Patriotic Education of Citizens of the Russian Federation” of the national project “Education”. Currently, more than 1.2 thousand such specialists work in educational institutions.

    Directors’ advisors play an important role in the implementation of key federal and city projects in the field of education, as well as the development of children’s initiatives. They involve children in children’s public associations, school and student theaters, volunteer units, patriotic, sports and tourist clubs. Specialists also conduct various patronage events and courage lessons. This helps preserve the memory of the participants of the Great Patriotic War, heroes and veterans.

    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

    HTTPS: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12872050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Syria: EU adopts legal acts to lift economic sanctions on Syria, enacting recent political agreement

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Following its political announcement on 20 May, the Council lifted the EU’s economic sanctions on Syria imposed ontothe Assad regime. It also removed 24 entities from the EU list of those subject to the freezing of funds and economic resources. In parallel, it extended the listings of individuals and entities linked to the Assad regime until 1 June 2026.In support of the transitional authorities’ efforts to safeguard the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Syrian people, the Council also imposed new restrictive measures on two individuals and three entities for human rights abuses and stands ready to consider further listings on those fuelling instability.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Closing Learning Gaps Through Scalable and Innovative Solutions

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Focused, scalable interventions can bridge learning gaps, as demonstrated by Pratham’s Read India initiative.

    Prioritizing interactive, student-centered teaching methods has proven successful. Finland’s holistic model emphasizes collaboration and creativity, while Kenya’s “Tusome” project has trained teachers in participatory learning strategies, significantly improving literacy rates. When students are actively engaged in their learning, they become more motivated and perform better.

    Adaptive assessments and real-time quiz platforms like Class Saathi are helping teachers identify learning gaps instantly and tailor instruction accordingly. These methods not only reduce the burden of manual grading but also create a continuous feedback loop that supports individual learning progress.

    Countries like Singapore are shifting toward holistic evaluations that nurture emotional intelligence and creativity alongside academic achievement. Similarly, Japan is adopting personalized learning frameworks to ensure that no child is left behind. Schools embracing inclusive innovation—whether through policy, pedagogy, or technology—are seeing measurable improvements in participation and learning outcomes.

    Low-tech and offline solutions can also be leveraged. Some tools are specifically designed to function without internet or electricity, ensuring equitable access to personalized learning even in the most remote schools. Pilot programs have shown that when solutions are tailored to local contexts, even minimal infrastructure can support meaningful educational improvements. Countries like Rwanda are prioritizing early learning to establish strong foundations in literacy and numeracy.

    Collaborative efforts between governments and organizations are bridging infrastructure gaps, equipping schools with essential resources and tools.

    When designed with simplicity and scalability in mind, educational technology can enhance learning in diverse and underserved environments.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business workshop targets growth during challenging times

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    In the current economic landscape, profitability and growth have become major hurdles for local businesses. Recognising these challenges, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland, is inviting businesses to attend a targeted Lean Productivity Workshop.

    The workshop will take place on Tuesday 10th June, from 9:30am to 2:00pm at Craigavon Civic Centre. Designed specifically for businesses involved in the creation and delivery of goods and services, this half-day session will guide participants through reviewing and improving their operational processes.

    Ideal for those who are involved in manufacturing, logistics, food production, and services, this workshop will offer practical help to improve. By systematically addressing inefficiencies, businesses can unlock productivity improvements of up to 25%, increasing their competitiveness in a demanding market.

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Sarah Duffy, said: “Our local businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we are committed to supporting them through practical and impactful initiatives like the Lean Productivity Workshop. This event will equip businesses with the tools they need to enhance performance and ultimately improve their bottom line. I encourage all eligible businesses to attend and take advantage of the expert guidance available.”

    Delivered by operational excellence experts from Invest NI, the workshop will cover:

    • Tools and techniques to analyse cost structures
    • Practical steps to streamline operations
    • Strategies to improve efficiency and boost sales

    Attendees will also have the opportunity to sign up for one-to-one mentoring sessions, offering tailored support to tackle their specific business challenges.

    Spaces are limited, and early registration is advised. You can book a free place here: https://bit.ly/3SnqGLW

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Women’s Rugby World Cup Trophy coming to York

    Source: City of York

    Published Tuesday, 27 May 2025

    Ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the newly-revealed trophy will be coming to York on Sunday 1 and Monday 2 of June.

    As part of the ‘Trophy Tour’ this summer, a fully branded Land Rover Defender will bring the new trophy into the city, for members of the public to see.

    On Sunday 1 and Monday 2 June the trophy will be displayed on Parliament Square, and during the evening of 2 June it will be taken to York Rugby Club from 6pm to allow local sports teams and organisations to enjoy the visit.

    Welcoming the trophy to the city, Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member for Economy and Culture, said:

    We’re thrilled to be hosting several exciting games as part of the Women’s Rugby World Cup later this summer.

    “Supporting this leg of the Trophy Tour is a great way to continue our amazing year of sport, and a great opportunity to celebrate the recent news that York is one of England’s most active cities. Our residents have shown how much love and support they have for sport, from grassroots all the way through to professional and international level competition”.    

    Interested residents and visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the trophy don’t need to book a space, just turn up at Parliament Square between 10:30am and 3.30pm on 1 June, or between 10am and 3pm on 2 June.

    During August and September York Community Stadium will host six matches, including USA Vs Australia, South Africa Vs Italy and New Zealand Vs Spain.

    Anyone interested in watching any of the Women’s Rugby World Cup games can find more information, and buy tickets, at www.rugbyworldcup.com/2025/en.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Increase in affordable housing across city

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Work is continuing to increase Aberdeen’s housing supply with the completion of more affordable homes and fewer empty properties across the city.  

    Councillors from the Communities, Housing and Public Protection Committee yesterday (27 May) received an update on the delivery of Aberdeen City’s Affordable Housing Delivery Supply Programme and the Bi-Annual Report from the Housing Board.   

    Communities, Housing and Public Protection convener Councillor Miranda Radley said: “ I am pleased to see 459 affordable houses being delivered through the city, in partnership with the Scottish Government and the city’s Registered Social Landlords.  

    “This is a huge achievement and builds on the success of the past few years delivering more affordable houses in the city.” 

    Vice-convener Councillor Dell Henrickson said: “The reduction in void Council properties has been crucial in ensuring that more homes are made available, and by turning these empty properties into homes, we are ensuring that more residents can benefit from affordable housing.” 

    Through the affordable housing delivery programme, 459 homes were completed in Aberdeen over the past year, with a further 472 homes expected to be completed in 2025/26.  

    It was also noted that a review by the Housing Board found that in March 2025 there were 418 fewer homes unoccupied council properties (voids) than the previous year.  

    Aberdeen City Council was allocated £12.5 million in 2024/25 through the Scottish Government’s affordable housing supply programme to make these homes available to move into.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 900 years of Edinburgh’s historic treasures to be celebrated in new digital exhibition

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    A new online exhibition launched by the City of Edinburgh Council’s Museums & Galleries, Libraries and Archives services brings together 900 years of objects relating to Edinburgh.

    From Greyfriars Bobby’s collar to the National Covenant, visitors to a digital exhibition can see all kinds of fantastic objects and artworks and find out more about their stories.

    Edinburgh 900: Objects from Nine Centuries of City Life is hosted on the Capital Collections website. It showcases not only some of the treasures viewable in museum and gallery venues around the city, but also many items that have never been fully shared with the public before. These include a 19th century record of petty criminals, a rare Hearts and Hibs football programme, beautiful contemporary silver and ceramics and historic documents from as early as the 12th century.

    The exhibition launched on Friday 23 May with the first 20 objects, with new objects being released each month between May and September, when the City’s Edinburgh 900 celebrations officially conclude.

    The team behind the exhibition have not only been photographing and researching these amazing treasures, they’ve also been engaging with community groups across the city to capture their responses to them. Groups including MindRoom who work with neurodiverse young people and dementia-friendly group Art In the City, have been connecting with the objects and having their responses recorded for display in the digital exhibition. This work is in partnership with the Open University who have provided the interactive digital app technology to capture community responses.

    Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said:

    Edinburgh 900 is a year-long celebration of our city’s rich history, culture, and bright future. It’s incredible to see the diversity of historic objects cared for on behalf of the city all viewable together online. I’m sure viewers are going to really enjoy seeing the tiny historic details the photographs reveal, as well as diving into the background stories and responses from the community. It’s a real celebration of Edinburgh’s past and present.

    A small display in the City Art Centre foyer showcasing some of the objects included in the online exhibition will open in the Summer.
     

    Published: May 28th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Resetting our relationship with the third sector

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Council Leader Jane Meagher writes in the Evening News today about the need to support Edinburgh’s third sector.

    With our population growing and more people struggling with the cost of living, Edinburgh’s third sector is in a precarious position.

    According to the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, seven in 10 charities now cite financial trials as their biggest challenge, up significantly in just two years. Traditional funding streams from the public sector, which provide vital grants to allow charities to operate in our local communities, are under growing pressure too.

    Echoing these concerns, a report to the Scottish Parliament’s Social Justice and Social Security Committee late last year made it clear that short-term funding cycles are creating financial instability for charities, diverting time and resources away from what’s important – delivering valuable services for vulnerable people.

    This predicament came into sharp focus for Edinburgh earlier this year when the Edinburgh Integration Joint Board (EIJB) – which oversees health and social care spend in the city – had to make difficult decisions to help it make necessary savings of close to £30m. Dozens of local projects and charities have seen their funding pulled as a result.

    Immediately, councillors united to intervene and see what could be done to prevent the devastating closures and redundancies these cuts could bring. Thankfully, we’ve been able to step in to provide emergency £2m funding, providing short term relief for 46 projects.

    Yesterday at Policy and Sustainability Committee, we also agreed how to spend a contingency fund worth £273,473 to further support primarily small, local projects and organisations in our communities which have lost EIJB funding. Grants of £10,000 will be made available this autumn to help with the resilience of the sector.

    Yet, the fact remains that the council also faces significant financial challenges. We remain the worst funded council in Scotland and plugging this gap will be difficult in future years. To that end, we need to find a longer-term sustainable way forward for this sector which provides so much good. Tackling poverty is one of our city’s top priorities and we cannot achieve this without the support of projects which focus on prevention.

    To get ahead of this, we’ve engaged the Edinburgh Partnership to conduct a review of how it supports and works with third sector organisations in Edinburgh, and to ultimately find solutions for improving funding certainty in future years. This includes how grant funding and commissioning is delivered, how third sector organisations monitor and report on their work, and what in-kind support is provided.

    We want to hear about how we can make it simpler, provide more stability, and collaborate to help those who need this sector’s support most. You can share your views through our Consultation Hub webpage, or by attending a workshop from now until Thursday 5 June. Results will be shared with those who take part and with the wider third sector, and will be reported to our next Policy and Sustainability Committee in August.

    In a successful city like Edinburgh, it is unacceptable that 80,000 people are living in poverty–  including close to a quarter of all children – which makes tackling inequality and preventing poverty one of the biggest challenges facing the capital.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The 2025 budget allocates 14% more funds for science than the previous year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko welcomed the participants of the General Meeting of Members of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS).

    He emphasized that the academy has always played a significant role in the development of Russia and under the leadership of Gennady Yakovlevich Krasnikov its authority is only growing stronger. In May, a board of trustees was created, headed by the head of state Vladimir Putin. It included high-level leaders, including Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin and Chairperson of the Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko.

    “I am confident that the President’s decision will allow the Russian Academy of Sciences to realize its potential in decision-making at all levels of government in the most effective way. This is especially important in the context of the national goal set by the head of state to achieve technological leadership. The Russian Academy of Sciences is solving one of the main tasks here, creating a fundamental reserve in priority areas of science. Also, now, based on the proposal of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Higher Attestation Commission will be formed,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    He noted that today the country has set ambitious goals that cannot be achieved without the persistent work of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It is important to ensure the continuity of fundamental science and applied solutions necessary for the creation of the most important science-intensive technologies.

    As part of the expansion of the new approach “State Task 2.0”, RAS aggregates business needs and formulates corresponding fundamental tasks for them.

    “In the 2025 budget, within the framework of the state program for scientific and technological development, 14% more money has been allocated for science than in 2024, or to be precise, 83.3 billion rubles. The main increase is in the section “fundamental scientific research” – by 50.1 billion rubles,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    He also reported that, according to surveys for last year, 79% of citizens trust the opinions of Russian scientists. Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized the importance of maintaining the openness of science to society and noted that the driver of this work is the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    Last year, with the support of the Scientific and Technical Council (STC), lists of priority areas and the most important science-intensive technologies were formed, included in the decree of the President. An examination of regional programs of scientific and technical progress of the subjects, national projects and applications for the creation of new world-class scientific centers was carried out, which made it possible to assess the scientific component and the quality of the implementation of strategies.

    “The Academy’s expert potential is growing every year. Last year, RAS experts conducted about 80 thousand examinations, which is 2 times more than in 2022. In the future, we will ensure the expansion of the Academy’s expert work, involve RAS in the examination of the scientific component of such flagship projects as “Priority 2030″, which covers 141 universities,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko

    He congratulated the participants of the meeting on the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, drew attention to the importance of the work on preserving historical memory, which is being carried out by the Russian Academy of Sciences, and also thanked all the involved members of the academy for their participation in the work of the Government.

    President of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academician Gennady Krasnikov, presented the results of the Academy’s activities and the most important scientific achievements of Russian scientists in 2024.

    “This meeting is special for us. In addition to the report on the activities of the academy and the presidium, at this meeting we elect new members of the Russian Academy of Sciences to our ranks. The last such elections were in 2022, so this time we have many vacancies. We expect that those who are elected to the Russian Academy of Sciences will actively work for the benefit of the academy and our country,” said Gennady Krasnikov.

    In 2025, the event will run from May 28 to 30.

    During the next two days of the General Meeting, the procedure for electing members of the Russian Academy of Sciences and foreign members of the Russian Academy of Sciences, as well as the Vice President of the Russian Academy of Sciences, will take place. In addition, a ceremonial awarding of leading Russian and foreign scientists with the highest awards will take place.

    The meeting is attended by the President of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academician Gennady Krasnikov, the Chairperson of the Federation Council Committee on Science, Education and Culture Liliya Gumerova, the Chairperson of the State Duma Committee on Science and Higher Education Sergei Kabyshev, and the Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko. In total, more than 1,000 people are involved in the work of the meeting, including the presidents of Russian academies of education, arts, architecture and construction sciences, as well as representatives of state corporations.

    The General Meeting of the members of the Russian Academy of Sciences is the highest governing body of the RAS. At the meeting, participants highlight current areas of development of scientific thought and discuss challenges facing the state and society. Following the General Meeting, resolutions are adopted that contain instructions and recommendations to the management and departments of the Academy.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: 25 infrastructure facilities will be restored in Antratsit, LPR, by the end of the year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    This year, 25 infrastructure facilities, including 52.5 km of roads, will be repaired in the city of Antratsit in the Luhansk People’s Republic. The work is being carried out by the Stavropol Territory and the state company Avtodor, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin reported.

    This year, 25 infrastructure facilities will be repaired in the city of Antratsit in the Luhansk People’s Republic, including 52.5 km of roads

    “Both state-owned companies and the sponsoring regions are working together to create comfortable living conditions for people in the reunited regions. Stavropol Krai will repair five schools and kindergartens in the territory under its sponsorship, and renew the roofs of 17 multi-story buildings. Specialists will also replace the road surface on a 19.5-kilometer section of the Rovenki-Anthracite highway. In turn, Avtodor has begun repairing more than 30 km of the Uspenka-Anthracite road. The road is part of the route to Lugansk, but it is quite difficult to drive on it now, because the roadway resembles an obstacle course, and motorists have to make a detour through Krasny Luch,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The road surface of the highway has not been updated for decades, so specialists will be building the road practically from scratch.

    “We have now started laying asphalt concrete on 33 km of the highway. We have already laid 12 km of the lower layer of the pavement. After the work is completed, residents of the Antratsitovsky district will receive a smooth, high-quality road surface, and the arrangement of the road. All this together will save about half an hour on the road. We will finish by the end of this year,” added Vyacheslav Petushenko, Chairman of the Board of the state-owned company Avtodor.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 05/28/2025, 11:51 (Moscow time) the values of the lower limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A1018T2 (IA DOM13P2) were changed.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    05/28/2025 11:51

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 05/28/2025, 11-51 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 67.38) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 114.99 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 33.75%) of the security RU000A1018T2 (IA DOM13P2) were changed

    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

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: work to attract investment creates conditions for regional growth

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting of the Far Eastern Federal District Council

    May 28, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting of the Far Eastern Federal District Council

    May 28, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting of the Far Eastern Federal District Council

    May 28, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting of the Far Eastern Federal District Council

    May 28, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting of the Far Eastern Federal District Council

    Previous news Next news

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 28, 2025
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