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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Health partnerships are key

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Recognising the imperative to be even better prepared for the next pandemic, we have continued to build on this previous success. The EIB is providing Gavi with €1 billion in liquidity to accelerate access to vaccines for viruses with pandemic potential (such as Ebola), and to support routine vaccination against preventable diseases like measles, malaria, and the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a leading cause of cervical cancer. (A new vaccine against tuberculosis could also be on the horizon.)

    This innovative approach has also inspired others and catalysed their efforts. For example, the G7 development-finance institutions, together with the EIB, MedAccess, and the International Finance Corporation, are working on a new surge-funding instrument to mobilise vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other medical goods that low- and lower-middle income countries will need to respond to future pandemics.

    Boosting regional vaccine production is a critical priority. Africa accounts for 20% of the world’s population, but produces just 0.1% of the world’s supply of vaccines. Building the continent’s vaccine-manufacturing base is a key part of any strategy to strengthen overall pandemic preparedness.

    Here, too, the EIB’s partnership and financial innovation are a game changer. Gavi’s $1.2 billion African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator – backed by over €750 million from European governments, as well as institutions including the EIB – is designed to dismantle barriers to local vaccine production. To help Africa achieve vaccine sovereignty, the EIB is also directly financing production facilities in Ghana, South Africa, and Senegal, through the Institut Pasteur de Dakar.

    Africa accounts for 20% of the world’s population, but produces just 0.1% of the world’s supply of vaccines.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Embryo research funded under the Horizon Europe programme – E-001947/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001947/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR), Fernand Kartheiser (ECR), Margarita de la Pisa Carrión (PfE), Stephen Nikola Bartulica (ECR)

    Under the Horizon Europe funding programme, 47 projects involving human embryonic stem cells or human embryos have been funded by the EU for approximately EUR 14 million[1]. Article 18 of Regulation (EU) 2021/695[2] sets clear limitations on the types of activities that are eligible for funding under Horizon Europe, including creating human embryos solely for the purpose of research or stem cell procurement. Furthermore, under Article 19, all research activities must comply with ethical principles and relevant Union, national and international law.

    With regards to these principles, we would like to ask the following questions:

    • 1.Available information on the 47 listed projects is very limited. How does the Commission ensure that these projects fully comply with the above-mentioned regulation and how does it ensure public access to this information?
    • 2.Several listed projects aim to improve embryo selection during in vitro fertilisation. How does the Commission ensure that these projects do not promote or normalise eugenic practices in contradiction to the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights?
    • 3.Some listed projects mention that human embryos are used to replace animal testing. Does the Commission consider this ethically acceptable and how is human dignity safeguarded in these cases?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    • [1] Written answer by Commissioner Iliana Ivanova as a follow-up to the hearing of 4 November 2024.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2021/695 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 April 2021 establishing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, laying down its rules for participation and dissemination, and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1290/2013 and (EU) No 1291/2013, OJ L 170, 12.5.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/695/oj.
    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Resumption of Frontex–Europol data-sharing in the interests of security and combating crime and irregular immigration – P-001768/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001768/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR), Giuseppe Milazzo (ECR)

    Having established, in an audit report published in May 2023[1], that there had been irregularities in Frontex-Europol data-sharing activities, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) reprimanded Frontex on 8 January 2025 for its failure to comply with Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 when transmitting the personal data of cross-border crime suspects to Europol[2], but it did not offer any temporary or definitive solutions to the issue.

    In its reply to a question on this subject, the Commission repeated that the existing rules do not preclude the competence of the two agencies to exchange data, including operational personal data[3].

    Given the serious consequences of suspending data-sharing among EU agencies, as they need to be able to share data to combat organised crime and meet national and European security needs:

    • 1.What steps will the Commission take, not least in the light of the lack of information provided by the EDPS in this regard, to make it possible for systematic and legal exchanges of data, which are an effective tool in combating irregular immigration, to be resumed promptly?
    • 2.With a view to the resumption of data-sharing, can the Commission provide details on the working arrangement currently being discussed by Europol and Frontex and push for its swift adoption?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.edps.europa.eu/data-protection/our-work/publications/audits/2023-05-24-audit-report-frontex_en.
    • [2] https://www.edps.europa.eu/press-publications/press-news/press-releases/2025/edps-reprimands-frontex-non-compliance-regulation-eu-20191896_en.
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-000169-ASW_EN.html.
    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Meeting on he Iranian regime’s activities in Europe with Bartjan Wegter – Delegation for relations with Iran

    Source: European Parliament

    The meeting of the Delegation for relations with Iran took place, IN CAMERA , on Monday, 19 May 2025, at 15.00-16.30 in Brussels (room SPINELLI 1E1).
    The main issue was an exchange of views with Mr Bartjan Wegter, EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator, on the Iranian regime’s destructive activities in Europe and EU’s response

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Provocative EU funding for the jihadist regime that is killing people in Syria – E-001155/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Following the violence in Syria’s coastal region, on 11 March 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement[1] on behalf of the EU, strongly condemning the attacks and the horrific crimes against civilians including summary killings, many of which have been allegedly perpetrated by armed groups supporting the security forces of the transitional authorities. The EU called for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice and welcomed the transitional authorities’ establishment of an independent investigative committee. The EU remains attentive to the actions of the new authorities in ensuring the protection of all Syrians upholding the universality and indivisibility of human rights and the principles of equality and non-discrimination.

    On 17 March 2025, the EU hosted the ninth Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’, committing nearly EUR 2.5 billion for 2025-2026. This is part of the EU’s continuous efforts in building a better future for the Syrian people . The EU’s humanitarian assistance is delivered through pre-certified partners in all parts of Syria, based on people’s needs, humanitarian principles and accountability to affected populations, emphasising transparency, efficiency and effectiveness. The EU’s non-humanitarian assistance follows strict implementation parameters and extensive monitoring, including third party monitoring and risk assessments.

    The EU urges all external actors to respect Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. The EU is committed to supporting an inclusive, Syrian-owned and Syrian-led transition grounded on international law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, pluralism and tolerance among all components of society which guarantees the rights of all Syrians without any kind of discrimination and away from malign foreign interference.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/syria-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-on-the-recent-wave-of-violence/.
    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Recital 72 of the Horizon Europe Regulation on academic freedom and its implementation with regard to Egypt – E-001949/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001949/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christian Ehler (PPE)

    Recital 72 of the Horizon Europe Regulation states that, in order to guarantee scientific excellence, and in line with Article 13 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the programme should promote respect for academic freedom in all countries benefiting from its funds.

    • 1.How is the Commission going to implement this recital with regard to Egypt?
    • 2.How is the Commission going to ensure that researchers involved in EU projects can work on them freely?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Non-evaluation of FATCA agreements by Member States and protection of fundamental rights of EU citizens – E-001950/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001950/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    François-Xavier Bellamy (PPE)

    On 13 April 2021, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) invited Member States to re-evaluate their international agreements involving transfers of personal data, in particular agreements struck with the United States under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), in order to make these agreements compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Four years later, and not a single Member State has published the required evaluation. This inaction constitutes a blatant violation of the obligation of responsibility laid down in Article 24 of the GDPR. During this time, the data of thousands of EU citizens continues to be passed on to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the US tax authority, without demonstrated legal safeguards.

    In France, the Finance Act for 2022 required the French Government to submit a report on the implementation of its information exchange commitments, in line with the GDPR and the recommendations of the EDPB. This report has never seen the light of day. The lack of political will to protect fundamental rights is clear.

    At the same time, the IRS publicly asserts its right to collect data outside the United States, in total disregard of EU legislation.

    • 1.Does the Commission consider it acceptable that this situation persists?
    • 2.Does the Commission plan to launch infringement proceedings against the Member States that are failing to fulfil their obligations under EU law?
    • 3.And, above all: is the Commission finally ready to guarantee that EU citizens’ data will be duly protected, even from non-EU powers?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – General principles of EU industrial policy – 21-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU’s industrial policy aims to make European industry more competitive so that it can maintain its role as a driver of sustainable growth and employment in Europe. The digital transition and the transition towards a carbon-neutral economy have led to the adoption of various strategies to ensure better framework conditions for EU industry. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have sparked new reflections on economic recovery, reconstruction and building resilience.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – 27-29 May: INTA Delegation to Washington, D.C. – Committee on International Trade

    Source: European Parliament

    A delegation of eight Members of the Committee on International Trade (INTA) will travel to Washington, D.C. from 27 to 29 May 2025 to discuss political, trade and investment relations between the US and the EU.

    The delegation will be led by INTA Chair and standing rapporteur for EU-US trade relations, Bernd Lange.

    INTA Members are set to hold meetings with different departments of the US administration and with lawmakers. The meetings will also include US business organisations as well as major EU businesses active in the US. Members will also meet with US trade union representatives, consumer organisations, think tanks and academia.

    Members will hear from different interlocutors and stakeholders how the tariffs imposed by the US administration are being applied, how business is adapting to the tariffs and how can EU-US trade tensions be eased moving forward.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Deal on patent rules exception to ensure the supply of critical products

    Source: European Parliament

    The new rules will ensure that the EU will be able to secure the necessary supply of crisis-relevant products and technologies that are otherwise protected by patents.

    European Parliament and EU government negotiators reached an agreement on new legislation ensuring availability of crisis-relevant products, such as vaccines or chips, during emergencies. According to the new bill, the EU will be able to issue special permission for the production of patent-protected goods during cross-border emergencies, without needing the authorisation of the rights-holder. This would allow the immediate production, for example, of vaccines or therapeutics also by other companies than the one holding the patent.

    This special permission, known as compulsory license, can be issued by the European Commission in clearly defined emergencies, such as a cross-border health crisis or internal market emergency, with specified scope, territorial coverage and duration. It would be used only as a last resort and only in cases where a voluntary agreement between rights-holder and licensee could not be reached. The new law will not apply to defence-related products. In the process of launching the compulsory license procedure, the Commission will have to identify all related intellectual property rights and their holders.

    Right to compensation and fines for breaches

    The rights-holder would also be entitled to appropriate remuneration for the use of their patent by the licensee. The amount and timeframe for payment would be determined by the Commission and specified in the compulsory license. The regulation does not require the disclosure of trade secrets.

    The new rules also clarify obligations for licensees, e.g. not to produce more products than a set maximum amount and to label the products manufactured under compulsory license. Should a licensee breach the agreed obligations, such as producing more products than allowed or exporting them from the EU, the Commission can impose a fine not exceeding €300,000 and in the case of small or medium-sized enterprise not exceeding €50,000.

    Consulting advisory body, rights-holders and licensees

    A competent advisory body, or if such an organisation does not exist, an ad-hoc advisory body will issue its non-binding opinion on the need to grant an EU compulsory license. Rights-holders and licensees will also be consulted during the process and notified of the termination or expiry of a compulsory license.

    Quote

    Following the negotiations, rapporteur of the Legal Affairs Committee Adrián Vázquez Lázara (EPP, ES) said: “I am proud to see this regulation adopted. It strikes a crucial balance between protecting intellectual property rights and ensuring that, in times of crisis, essential technologies and products can be made available swiftly across the Union. This framework enhances our collective preparedness and reinforces the EU’s commitment to both innovation and public welfare.”

    Next steps

    Once formally approved by the Parliament as a whole and the member states, the regulation will enter into force one day after its publication in the Official Journal.

    Background

    The European Commission presented its proposal on compulsory licensing in April 2023, as part of the EU patent package focusing on completion of the Single Market for patents. It was its reaction to the European Parliament resolution of November 2021, where it called on the Commission to analyse the possibility of compulsory licencing at the EU level.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 10 new Joint Cadet Centres delivered in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    10 new Joint Cadet Centres delivered in Wales

    10 new Joint Cadet Centres are being delivered in Wales as part of a national effort to modernise the reserve and cadet estate.

    Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers outside their new Joint Cadet Centre in Caldicot. Copyright: RFCA for Wales.

    Under the Secretary of State-directed Reserve Estates Optimisation Programme (REOP), a number of sites across Wales were identified for development as new shared Joint Cadet Centres. As a result, 10 new centres are being created either as refurbished sites or brand-new modular builds, e.g. Caldicot in the south.

    The project is RFCA for Wales’ contribution to the government’s drive to improve the cadet and reserve estate across the UK. This comes after a national review of the reserve and cadet estate in 2020, which examined the reach, condition, suitability and value-for-money of every cadet and reserve building in the UK.

    While the initiative is being led by the Ministry of Defence (MOD), the council of RFCAs, regional RFCAs and Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) are closely involved. The REOP has so far delivered 59 out of 88 planned projects, which will amount to c. £45 million invested once complete, and just over £5 million invested across the 10 sites in Wales.

    RFCA for Wales Head of Estates, Mr Phil Young, said:

    We are adapting and improving our estate to ensure we have the right buildings in the right locations to meet the needs of cadets in the future.

    The programme in Wales has meant that 12 cadet and reserve sites are being disposed of, contributing to a more efficient estate. One of the latest developments is a new Joint Cadet Centre in Penarth, where 2 existing air cadet buildings were extended and reconfigured to create one building. The local army cadets also make use of the new shared accommodation.

    In Caldicot, the old Army Cadet Force building in Mill Lane was razed to the ground to make way for a bespoke £1.2 million building which opened its doors last summer, with space for collaborative training between the army and air cadets.

    Kerris Drew, Staff Sergeant Instructor of Caldicot ACF, said:

    This new state-of-art building is great – it’s so much bigger than the old one with better facilities, including more classrooms which allow us to carry out more efficient and targeted training with the cadets. Outside there is a parade area for drill practice and a garden with wildlife boxes. It also has a spacious stores room, offices and even air conditioning.

    5 new centres have already been created at Blaina, Blackwood, Caldicot, Penarth and Pengam-Cascade, and a further 5 are in the works at Tredegar, Bangor, Bridgend, Ammanford and Ebbw Vale.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: April 2025 Transaction Data

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    April 2025 Transaction Data

    This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in April 2025.

    NicoElNino/Shutterstock.com

    Please note this data shows what HM Land Registry has been able to process during the time period covered and is not necessarily a reflection of market activity.

    In April:

    • HM Land Registry completed over 1,811,920 applications to change or query the Land Register 
    • The South East topped the table of regional applications with 408,047

    HM Land Registry completed 1,811,924 applications in April compared with 1,974,155 in March 2025 and 1,953,642 last April 2024, of which: 

    • 285,129 were applications for register updates compared with 295,653 in March
    • 1,058,989 were applications for an official copy of a register compared with 1,097,576 in March
    • 158,279 were search and hold queries (official searches) compared with 263,960 in March
    • 78,380 were transactions for value compared with 83,730 in March * 14,592 were postal applications from non-account holders compared with 15,564 in March

    Applications by region and country 

    Region/country February applications March applications April applications
    South East 401,605 444,651 408,047
    Greater London 340,916 370,483 336,247
    North West 207,672 227,167 208,094
    South West 175,173 191,416 174,721
    West Midlands 156,886 169,372 155,674
    Yorkshire and the Humber 143,216 157,393 145,196
    East Midlands 133,701 145,134 133,700
    North 88,757 96,664 90,391
    East Anglia 76,081 84,604 77,323
    Isles of Scilly 64 77 53
    Wales 82,335 87,088 82,370
    England and Wales (not assigned) 94 106 108
    Total 1,806,500 1,974,155 1,811,924

    Top 5 local authority areas 

    April 2024 applications

    Top 5 Local authority areas April applications
    Birmingham 29,015
    City of Westminster 23,624
    Leeds 20,615
    North Yorkshire 20,400
    Buckinghamshire 18,668

    March 2025 applications

    Top 5 local authority areas March applications
    Birmingham 31,179
    City of Westminster 26,760
    North Yorkshire 22,416
    Leeds 21,919
    Cornwall 21,623

    Top 5 customers 

    April 2024 applications

    Top 5 customers April applications
    Infotrack Limited 195,556
    Enact 33,159
    O’Neill Patient 30,861
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 29,905
    Orbital Witness Limited 28,157

    March 2025 applications

    Top 5 customers March applications
    Infotrack Limited 212,489
    Enact 35,812
    O’Neill Patient 30,751
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 29,962
    Orbital Witness Limited 28,718

    Access the full dataset on our Use land and property data service.

    Next publication 

    Transaction Data is published on the 15th working day of each month. The May 2025 data will be published at 11am on Friday 20 June 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £26 million CashBack for Communities

    Source: Scottish Government

    Increased funding to help young people away from crime.

    Projects supporting young people at risk of being drawn into criminal activities are to receive up to £26 million over the next three years.

    The Scottish Government’s CashBack for Communities programme uses money recovered from seized criminal assets to provide crucial support to young people who may be at risk of becoming involved in offending or antisocial behaviour.

    Successful projects in the programme’s next stage (2026-2029) will deliver a range of activities and support for those aged 10 to 25, to help tackle some of the underlying causes of antisocial behaviour and criminal activity. Projects will also provide access to trusted adults who young people can confide in.

    Since 2008 CashBack for Communities has invested £156 million and supported around 1.4 million young people across all 32 local authorities in Scotland.

    Visiting a project based at Glasgow’s Easterhouse Sports Centre, Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown said:

    “CashBack for Communities is inspiring. It turns the proceeds of crime into life-changing opportunities for the thousands of young people who take part in projects across Scotland every year.

    “Over the course of the next three years of the programme, we are providing £26 million to organisations to deliver diversionary and support work with children and young people. By learning new skills and boosting their confidence, it helps young people in our communities who are at risk of becoming involved in crime be diverted from that path and realise their potential.

    “Since its inception more than a million young people have received support to turn their lives around, with opportunities provided into employment, education or volunteering. CashBack’s success is also testament to the work of law enforcement partners in disrupting organised crime groups – bringing them to justice and seizing their ill-gotten gains, using them to deliver a successful programme across the country.”

    Background

    CashBack for Communities is a Scottish Government initiative which takes funds recovered through the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and invests them back into communities. It supports delivery of Scottish Government’s Vision for Justice in Scotland.

    More information on the CashBack for Communities programme. Applications for funding open on 12 June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Professor Beth Lord appointed to REF role The University of Aberdeen’s Professor Beth Lord has been appointed as deputy chair of an expert sub-panel that will assess research in REF 2029.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Professor Beth Lord

    The University of Aberdeen’s Professor Beth Lord has been appointed as deputy chair of an expert sub-panel that will assess research in REF 2029.
    The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a process of academic review. UK institutions make submissions into units of assessment (UoAs) each of which is assessed by an expert sub-panel , working under the guidance of four main panels.
    Professor Lord is deputy chair of the Philosophy sub-panel (UoA 30) working with Professor Bill Child from the University of Oxford as chair.
    They are now working to appoint a team of sub-panellists, ensuring that membership reflects the full range of required expertise. These appointments will be announced in summer 2025.
    The sub-panel chairs and deputy chairs will lead their members through the criteria-setting phase, beginning later this year, and on through to the assessment phase in 2029 when sub-panellists will evaluate submissions from universities across the UK.
    Professor Lord, Head of the School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History, said: “I’m honoured to have been invited to serve as deputy chair for the Philosophy sub-panel.
    “REF is an important exercise in assessing the quality of UK university research and provides governments, funders and the public with confidence that research is world-class and impactful.
    “Leading this process is a great opportunity to serve the profession, and I am looking forward to getting started.”
    REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn said: “I’m delighted to welcome this outstanding group to lead the REF 2029 sub-panels. Their deep expertise and broad perspectives will be central to building an assessment process that is fair, rigorous, and trusted by the research community. We have been working in partnership with the sector throughout this process, and I’m grateful to everyone who expressed interest – your engagement is what strengthens the credibility and value of the REF across our research landscape.”
    The list of appointed chairs and deputy chairs can be found on the REF webpages.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sign-up to new Statistics Jersey alerts22 May 2025 ​Islanders are being encouraged to sign-up to receive email notifications about key statistics on Jersey’s economy and population as soon as they’re released. The email notification service is part of… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    22 May 2025

    ​Islanders are being encouraged to sign-up to receive email notifications about key statistics on Jersey’s economy and population as soon as they’re released. 

    The email notification service is part of Statistics Jersey’s new website, www.stats.je , launched earlier this month.  

    Until recently, Statistics Jersey published its reports and data on www.gov.je. Following amendments to the Statistics and Census (Jersey) Law, this information has been moved to www.stats.je.  

    Islanders who previously received email notifications about Statistics Jersey publications from www.gov.je will no longer receive these and will need to sign-up for notifications from www.stats.je . 

    The new website www.stats.je offers user-friendly statistical data compiled by Statistics Jersey as well as improved interactivity for policy makers, businesses and the general public.  Users can now see Jersey’s key indicators, such as the RPI and the House Price Index, at a glance as well as being able to explore interactive charts and download reports. ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland welcomes a new Mayor and Mayoress – Councillor Ehthesham Haque and Councillor Lynda Scanlan.

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Sunderland’s new Mayor and Mayoress were officially sworn in at the meeting of full council yesterday (Wednesday 21 May).

    They took over the ceremonial chains of office from the retiring Mayor and Consort, Councillor Allison Chisnall and Consort Mr Alistair Thomson.

    Sunderland’s new Mayor Councillor Ehthesham Haque is the cities youngest Mayor at 28-years-old and first Mayor of Asian descent.

    Cllr Haque has lived in Sunderland since the age of 10, after relocating with his family from London. A former pupil of Richard Avenue Primary and Thornhill Comprehensive, he continued his studies at Sunderland College, the University of Sunderland, and later Cambridge University.

    Elected as a Ward Councillor for Barnes in 2023, he works as a Civil Servant and has a strong passion for politics and community service. He served on the Health and Scrutiny Committee and was Governor at his former primary school prior to becoming Deputy Mayor.

    Cllr Haque lives with his wife and family in Sunderland and is committed to working hard for his constituents and the wider city.

    New Mayor, Cllr Haque said: “To have been elected Mayor of Sunderland is the proudest achievement of my life so far and I am honoured to serve the City of Sunderland. I am looking forward to celebrating the people of this city and its businesses, charities and communities.”

    Cllr Haque’s Chaplain will be The Reverend Canon Clare MacLaren, Provost of Sunderland Minster, High Street West, Sunderland.

    Sunderland’s new Mayoress Cllr Scanlan has served in both Millfield and Hendon Wards after first being elected councillor for Millfield in 2011. She also served as Mayor in 2018 to 2019 and is no stranger to mayoral duties.

    New Mayoress, Cllr Scanlan said: “I have been a member of council for over a decade, and I am thrilled to be elected Mayoress of Sunderland. There are so many fantastic opportunities coming up in the year ahead to showcase this city, and support events such as Active Sunderland sports events, the Christmas light switch on, and Remembrance Day parades.”

    The new Mayor and Mayoress, will be supporting Love, Amelia and Hopespring charities, which both support children and families.

    Also sworn in by full Council as Deputy Mayor for 2025-2026 is Councillor Melanie Thornton and the Deputy Mayoress will be Councillor Thornton’s mother, Carol Hopps.

    Cllr Thornton has lived in Sunderland’s Coalfield area all her life, growing up in East Rainton and Hetton. She now lives in Hetton Downs and supports local groups including Friends of Hetton Lyons Country Park and Coalfields Pride, which she chairs. Elected as a City Councillor for Copt Hill in 2019, she previously chaired the Planning and Highways Committee and is honoured to now serve as Deputy Mayor of Sunderland.

    The outgoing Mayor, Cllr Chisnall said: “It has been an honour and privilege to serve as Mayor of Sunderland. I have enjoyed working with Councillor Haque as Deputy Mayor and Councillor Scanlan. I wish the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor the best of luck for this coming year.

    “I will look back at my time in office with such fondness. Taking part in events like the Mayor’s Civic Ball, The Christmas Light Switch On, and VE Day has been an honour.

    “We are also incredibly grateful to have been able to raise around £20,000.00 for our chosen charities Castletown Scouts Group, Hylton Castle Trust, and The Royalty Theatre.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientists Develop Efficient Lasers the Size of a Speck of Dust

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Researchers HSE University in Saint Petersburg have found a way to create efficient microlasers with a diameter of only 5–8 micrometers. They operate at room temperature, do not require cooling, and can be built into microchips. The scientists used the whispering gallery effect to confine light and buffer layers to reduce energy leakage and stress. The approach is promising for integrating lasers into chips, sensors, and quantum technologies. Study published in “Letters to the Journal of Technical Physics”.

    The devices around us are becoming more compact without losing functionality. Smartphones solve problems that previously required a computer, and small cameras shoot almost like professional ones. Miniaturization has also affected lasers — sources of directed light radiation that are built into optical chips, sensors, medical devices, and communication systems.

    But it is not easy to reduce the size of a laser while maintaining its optical properties, efficiency and reliability. Developing a laser 5–8 micrometers in size (roughly the diameter of a red blood cell) requires complex calculations, and its production requires high precision. The main difficulty lies in the design of the laser itself. Unlike conventional light sources, lasers amplify radiation inside a resonator – a structure where light is repeatedly reflected and amplified. And the more compact the laser, the more difficult it is to contain the light inside it so that it is repeatedly reflected, amplified and does not lose energy – this is what is important for its stable operation.

    Another difficulty is defects in the material. Lasers use crystals that can amplify light. But when they are grown, microscopic defects often arise that reduce the efficiency of light generation. To minimize such disturbances, scientists carefully select the synthesis conditions and model the properties of the crystals in advance in different modes. At the same time, solving one problem often causes others to appear, and laser development becomes a constant search for balance.

    Scientists from the National Research University Higher School of Economics have created microlasers with a diameter of only 5–8 micrometers that operate at room temperature. They used a crystalline structure of indium, gallium, nitrogen, and aluminum compounds grown on a silicon substrate. To confine the light in a tiny space, the scientists used the whispering gallery effect.

    “This phenomenon is well known in acoustics: in some churches and cathedrals, you can whisper words near one wall, and the sound will be clearly heard near the opposite wall, despite the fact that under normal conditions the sound would not travel such a distance. A similar effect allows light to be reflected multiple times inside a disk microlaser, thereby minimizing losses,” explains the senior researcher. International Laboratory of Quantum Optoelectronics HSE University in St. Petersburg Eduard Moiseev.

    However, even under such conditions, light waves can partially escape into the substrate and be lost. To avoid this, the researchers added a stepped buffer layer. It compensates for mechanical stress between the silicon and nitride layers and reduces radiation leakage, allowing the laser to operate stably even at small sizes.

    “Our microlasers operate stably at room temperature, without cooling systems, which makes them convenient for real use. In the future, such devices will allow the creation of more compact and energy-efficient optoelectronic devices,” explains Natalia Kryzhanovskaya, head of the International Laboratory of Quantum Optoelectronics at the National Research University Higher School of Economics in St. Petersburg.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 5.21.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 21, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Armen Meyer, of San Francisco, has been appointed Senior Deputy Commissioner for the Division of Consumer Financial Protection at the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. Meyer has held several positions at the American Fintech Council since 2021 including Co-Founder, Advisor, and Board Member. He has held several positions at Millenia Capital since 2021, including Advisor and General Partner. Meyer held multiple positions at LendingClub and LendingClub Bank from 2017 to 2023, including Head of the Public Policy and Government Affairs Team and Vice President of Regulatory Strategy and Policy. He held multiple positions at PriceWaterhouseCoopers from 2011 to 2017, including Managing Director for Financial Services Advisory, Director of Regulatory Strategy, and Chief of Staff for Financial Services Regulatory. Meyer held multiple positions at the New York Banking Department from 2009 to 2011, including Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the Superintendent. He held multiple positions in the New York Executive Office from 2007 to 2009, including Assistant Secretary for Economic Development and Communications Director to the Lieutenant Governor. Meyer is an Advisor to FS Vector, FairplayAI, Spring Labs, Pontoro, Raido Capital, University of California Berkeley SkyDeck, The AI Education Project, and Fordham University’s College at Lincoln Center. He is a Board Member of the Gaidz Foundation for Armenian heritage and Valt. Meyer is Head of Partnerships for the Harvard Business School Alumni Angels of Northern California, and a member of the National Community Reinvestment Coalition’s Innovation Council, the Exchequer Club of Washington DC, Armenian Assembly and Armenians in Banking and Finance, and supporter of The Mechanicals Theater Company. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School, a Master of Public Administration degree from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Math from Fordham University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $195,564. Meyer is a Democrat.

    Jacob Arkatov, of Los Angeles, has been appointed to the Medical Board of California. Arkatov has been an Associate at O’Melveny & Myers since 2022. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from Georgetown University. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Arkatov is a Democrat.

    Peter Brierty, of Highland, has been appointed to the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission. Brierty has been a Retired Annuitant at the San Bernardino County Fire Department since 2025. He was a Project Manager at Pacific Heritage, Inc. from 2017 to 2023. Brierty held multiple positions at the San Bernardino County Fire Department from 1978 to 2013, including Fire Marshal, Assistant Chief, and Division Manager. Brierty is the President of the Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern California and a Member of the Fire and Burn Foundation at the San Bernardino County Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science from California State University, San Bernardino. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Brierty is a Democrat.

    Tom Hallinan, of Modesto, has been appointed to the California Board of Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists. Tom has been a Deputy District Attorney at the Stanislaus County District Attorney Office since 2024 and a Partner at White Brenner LLP since 2012. Hallinan earned a Juris Docter degree from Lincoln School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from California State University, Fresno. He is a member of the Central Valley City Attorney’s Association. This position does not require senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Hallinan is a Democrat.

    Amanda Steidlmayer, of Woodland, has been appointed to the California Architects Board. Steidlmayer has been the Director of Professional Development at the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine since 2022. She was a Program Manager for the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine from 2018 to 2022. She was a Strategic Initiatives Coordinator for the University of California, Davis Graduate Studies Office from 2013 to 2018. She was the Director of Academic Operations and Planning at the University of Davis, California Graduate School of Management from 2013 to 2016. Steidlmayer earned a Master of International Public Policy degree from the University of California, San Diego and a Bachelor of Science degree in Community and Regional Development from University of California, Davis. This position does not require senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Steidlmayer is a Democrat.

    Pamela Brief, of La Crescenta, has been reappointed to the Landscape Architects Technical Committee, where she has served since 2020. Brief has been President of Pamela Studios since 2012. She was Senior Principal at NUVIS from 2019 to 2020. Brief was Senior Principal at Jerde Partnership from 2007 to 2008. She was President of Schirmer Design from 2004 to 2007. Brief was a Landscape Designer and Principal at Walt Disney Imagineering from 1992 to 2004. Brief earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Landscape Architecture from Ohio State University. She is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, Association of Women in Architecture + Design, and Friends of the LA River. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Brief is a Democrat.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    May 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Matthew Read, of Sacramento, has been appointed Chief Counsel at the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation. Read has been Acting Chief Counsel at the Governor’s Office of…

    May 20, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom issued a statement today after U.S. Senate Republicans announced plans for an illegal vote this week that would undo California’s clean cars and trucks program. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a statement on…

    May 20, 2025

    News What you need to know: State and local law enforcement partners seized $123.5 million in illegal cannabis in the Central Valley. SACRAMENTO – In its largest operation to date, the state’s task force dedicated to eradicating illegal cannabis operations conducted a…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales Reinforces Commitment to Malaysia at LIMA 2025 with New Leadership and Contracts Awarded

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales Reinforces Commitment to Malaysia at LIMA 2025
    with New Leadership and Contracts Awarded

    • As a strategic partner in helping Malaysia achieve air sovereignty, Thales has been awarded the role to supply two additional Ground Master 400 Alpha (GM400α) radars by the Ministry of Defence for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), following the previous contract for the first radar at the end of 2023.
    • Thales will enhance tactical communications for land forces and reinforce its radio communications capabilities through the signing of a strategic MoU with Malaysian defence partner, ADS, to collaborate on radio projects.
    • Thales has also been selected to deploy the AW139 flight simulator to the Royal Malaysian Police with local partner Novatis Resources through the LOA signed in presence of Thales.
    • To drive the Thales business forward, Florian Riou has been appointed Country Director for Thales in Malaysia, effective 1 July 2025.
    Thales’s GM400α radar © Thales” id=”image-a30cd6be-5247-44f2-87e6-7e1b9bfd9e1d” data-id=”a30cd6be-5247-44f2-87e6-7e1b9bfd9e1d” data-original=”https://cdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/a30cd6be-5247-44f2-87e6-7e1b9bfd9e1d/-/inline/no/ABC.jpg” data-mfp-src=”https://cdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/a30cd6be-5247-44f2-87e6-7e1b9bfd9e1d/-/format/auto/” alt=”Thales’s GM400α radar © Thales”/>
    Thales’s GM400α radar © Thales

    On the occasion of the LIMA 2025 exhibition in Langkawi, Thales’ commitment to Malaysian defence is once again recognised by the Malaysian Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces. With a steady economic growth outlook, the Malaysian government is keen to advance the country’s military modernisation and Thales remains at the forefront of this, with the Memorandum of Understanding & Letter of Award received for equipment ranging from radars to radios.

    I. Two additional GM400α long-range radars for superior situational air awareness

    To strengthen the air surveillance and air defence capabilities of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), Thales will supply two additional long-range air surveillance GM400α radars, following the ceremony held on Day 3 of LIMA 2025, in presence of Francois-Xavier Boutes, Country Director of Thales Malaysia and YBhg Datuk Lokman Hakim bin Ali, Secretary General from the Ministry of Defence, and witnessed by YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, Minister of Defence. The award of these two additional radars underscores the trust held by the RMAF in Thales’ radar technology, following the first GM400α contract signed at the end of 2023. Thanks to its high mobility, high availability, easy upgradeability and seamless integration, the GM400α offers armed forces with a valuable tool to gain tactical advantage, detecting all types of threats early and providing precious minutes for decision-making and action (515km range). Today more than 270 Ground Master field-proven family air surveillance radars have been sold worldwide.

    In Malaysia, Thales will partner Weststar Group once again to deploy the radars in line with the operational requirements of the RMAF. Thales will also engage in the Transfer of Knowledge and Train-the-Trainer courses delivered under the Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP), while strengthening its installed base in Malaysia for long-range surveillance radars. By building local expertise, Thales will enhance the efficiency of radar maintenance, enhance the autonomy of the RMAF and ensure timely on-ground maintenance support close to the end-users. Thales’ radar expertise in Malaysia runs deep, as the country was also the launch customer for the precursor GM400 radar in 2009.

    II. Enhancing tactical and radio communications for Malaysia

    To further deepen its expertise in radio and tactical communications, Thales has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with partner ADS Sdn. Bhd. Signed on Day 2 of LIMA between Brig Gen Dato’ Abdul Hadi bin Abdul Razak (R), ADS and Nicolas Bouverot, VP Thales Asia, the collaboration will see both parties working on the latest digital technologies for handheld radios and other tactical communications.

    III. A helicopter training simulator marks a first contract with Royal Malaysian Police (RMP)

    Pascale Sourisse, CEO, Thales International witnessed the signing of an LOA, together with Malaysian partner Novatis Resources to deliver a Reality-H® AW139 Full Flight Simulator (FFS) to be used for pilot training with the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP). The Thales Reality H Full Flight Simulator is the world’s most advanced commercial helicopter simulator, and will be qualified to meet Level D standard, the highest level of qualification for a simulator. This marks a first engagement with the RMP, where pilots of the Police Air Wing Training Academy and other government agencies including the fire brigade and coast guard can benefit from realistic and immersive training, customised to the Malaysian environment and terrain.

    IV. New leadership for Thales in Malaysia

    To drive the growing business in Malaysia, Florian Riou has been appointed Country Director for Thales in Malaysia and Brunei and will effectively take on the role on 1st of July 2025. Florian brings close to 18 years of professional experience in foreign trade policy and trade compliance, with roles held in the French Ministry of Economics and Finance and Safran Group. With Thales since 2017, Florian’s most recent role was as Group Trade Compliance Director for Thales, based in France.

    “These latest agreements are recognition of how Thales’ solutions are supporting the needs of the Malaysian government and Malaysian forces. Our air surveillance radars are bringing air superiority to the Royal Malaysian Air Force in some of most challenging tropical environments. In addition, our history in tactical radio communications dates back several decades in Malaysia and looks set to continue as we collaborate with strong local partners to develop home-grown expertise and joint solutions to support the Army. We appreciate the renewed trust established with Thales to help drive the modernisation of its armed forces.” Pascale Sourisse, CEO, Thales International.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proactive planning enforcement transforms Newport’s high street 22 May 2025 Community Council reveals that financial support has seen a large section of Newport’s high street restored

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council has revealed that its financial support has seen a large section of Newport’s high street buildings restored, transforming the look and feel for residents and visitors alike.

    The Isle of Wight Council’s Planning Enforcement Strategy allows parish, town and community councils to fund additional planning enforcement in their patch to target specific areas. In the case of Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council, the priorities were buildings along Carisbrooke High Street and Newport High Street that were untidy and falling into a state of disrepair.

    With the extra capacity, the Isle of Wight Council has been able to work with property owners and occupiers to tackle over 50 untidy buildings. This partnership approach has seen 39 buildings being successfully restored through remedial works, with many more lined up for the same treatment. There has also been a ripple effect, where properties are now being restored without the need for intervention from the Council.

    The improved visual appearance of the high street has been positive and such changes are known to help improve civic pride and wellbeing too.

    Councillor Paul Fuller, cabinet member for planning, coastal protection and flooding, said: “the success of proactive planning enforcement action in Newport has been wonderful to see.”

    “It is positive to see landowners voluntarily taking measures to maintain and restore their buildings and shop frontages.”

    “Using proactive planning enforcement action to restore the appearance of buildings will help regain a sense of community and respect for the town which will hopefully create a socioeconomic benefit by drawing business back to the high street.”

    “This change will not only be visible to local residents, but to visitors and tourists visiting the Isle of Wight.”

    Councillor Vix Lowthion, chair of Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council said: “the visible improvements in our town centre and beyond have been remarked upon by visitors and locals alike.”

    “Our community council could only achieve these results through working in partnership with the IW Council, who have listened closely to the priorities of local ward councillors throughout.” 

    “I know I can speak for us all when I say it has certainly been money well spent.”

    Any parish or town councils who are interested in joining Lake Parish Council, Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council, Ryde Town Council and Sandown Town Council in funding additional planning enforcement capacity for their area should contact enforcement.team@iow.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: Creative industry figures urge Starmer to act against Gaza genocide- ‘you know what is happening’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    116 leading UK and Irish creatives have urged Keir Starmer to act over Israel’s escalating atrocities in Gaza, criticising UK arms exports, settlement trade, and lack of ICC support – open letter 

    Riz Ahmed, Dame Harriet Walker, Maxine Peake, Nish Kumar, Paloma Faith and others condemn UK government inaction on Gaza 

    The Prime Minister must ‘stand up for justice and human rights’ and ‘words are no longer enough; we need to see action’ – Creatives 

    Artists gather outside Downing Street to hold placards urging the PM to act to stop the genocide and human rights abuses in Gaza 

    Over 100 leading voices from across the UK and Ireland’s film, television, and creative industries including Riz Ahmed, Dame Harriet Walker, Maxine Peake, Nish Kumar, Paloma Faith, Juliet Stevenson and many more have united to call on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to take urgent action in response to Israel’s escalating atrocities in Gaza and the wider Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT).   

    In a public letter, the group condemn “all attacks on civilians” but emphasise that as well as Israel’s decades-long military occupation, expansion of illegal settlements, and system of apartheid, Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, as described by Amnesty International in its report “You feel Like You Are Subhuman”.  

    “We are deeply troubled by your lack of meaningful action to help deter Israel’s horrifying and calculated violations of Palestinian rights,” the letter states to the Prime Minister. 

    Since October 2023, more than 20,000 children have reportedly been killed in Gaza. The group point to the use of 2,000lb bombs dropped from F-35 fighter jets – supplied with UK-made components – as part of a devastating campaign that includes siege tactics blocking access to food, water, electricity, and medicine for over two million civilians. 

    “You know what is happening,” they write to the Prime Minister, and state “your Government is failing to fulfil its obligation to prevent the ongoing genocide in Gaza.” 

    The letter also highlights a stark double standard in UK policy: banning imports from Russian-occupied Crimea, while allowing trade with Israeli settlements in the illegally Occupied Palestinian Territory. The International Court of Justice has made clear that countries must not support illegal occupations – including through trade.

    In addition to arms and trade, the group call on the UK government to fully support the International Criminal Court’s investigation into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the region. 

    Their demands include: 

    • An immediate suspension of all UK arms exports to Israel 
    • A ban on trade with illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory 
    • Compliance with international legal rulings, including those of the ICJ and ICC 

    The group implores the Prime Minister “to stand up for justice and human rights” and that “words are no longer enough; we need to see action”. 

    Artists gather outside Downing Street to deliver the letter and hold placards urging the PM to act to stop Israel’s genocide and human rights abuses in Gaza. 

    The artists held placards bearing messages from residents of Gaza that capture the urgency and human toll of the crisis: 

    • “I don’t want my child to die hungry” – Gaza Resident, Occupied Gaza 
    • “You may send your child to bring water only for him to return in a body bag” – Gaza Resident, Occupied Gaza 

    These statements are a stark reminder of the daily reality for civilians under Israel’s illegal blockade.  

    About the Signatories 

    This statement by Amnesty International has been endorsed by a coalition of UK-based professionals across the creative industries – filmmakers, actors, writers, artists and cultural leaders – who believe in the power of art, law, and collective voice in the face of injustice. 

    Ahmed Masoud; Aisling Bea; Aiysha Hart; Alan Moore; Alexander McKinnon; Alexei Sayle; Alice Roberts; Alisdair Beckett; King Amrita Acharia; Andrea Arnold Anjli; Mohindra Anneika; Rose Annie Mac; Sir Anish Kapoor CBE; Anoushka Shankar; Dr Ariel Caine; Bernadette O’Brien; Bertie Carvel; President of the Bianca Jagger Human Rights Foundation; Brian Eno; Briony Hannah; Brona C Titley; Charlotte Church; Chipo Chung; David Morrissey; Deborah Frances-White; Declan McKenna; Denise Gough; Emma D’Arcy; Esther Freud; Esther Manito; Fionn O’Loinsigh; Francesca Martinez; Frankie Boyle; Frederico Gaggio; Grace Petrie; Dame Harriet Walter; Himesh Patel; Ian Rickson; Imran Yusuf; Indeyarna Donaldson-Holness; Inua Ellams MBE; Ivor Graeme; Jackie Clune; James Acaster; Jan Pearson; Janie Dee; Jason Fleming; Jay Griffiths; Jen Brister; Jessica Fostekew; Jim Loach; John Higgs; Josie Long; Jolyon Rubinstein; Juliet Stevenson CBE; Kathy Lette; Kerry Godliman; Khalid Abdalla; Ken Loach; Lise Meyer; Lolly Adefope; Louisa Young; Love Ssegga; Mae Martin; Mahtab Hussain; Manjinder Virk; Mariam Haque; Marnie Dickens; Max Porter; Maxine Peake; Dr Michael Hrebeniak; Misan Harriman; Mystery Jets; Nadia Sawalha; Nicola Thorp; Nikesh Patel; Nikesh Shukla; Nikita Gill; Nimmi Harasgama; Nish Kumar; Paapa Essiedu; Paloma Faith; Paul Laverty; Penny Woolcock; Peter Wyer; Rebecca O’Brien; Rida Hamidou; Riz Ahmed; Robin Ince; Robin Morrissey; Roger Hartley; Roisin O’Loughlin; Ruth Lass; Salena Godden; Sam Spruell; Sara Masry; Sarah Agha; Sasha Behar; Selma Dabbagh; Shazia Mirza; Simon Rix; Sonali Bhattacharyya; Stewart Lee; Steve Coogan; Susan Lynch; Suzi Ruffell; Thomas Browne; Thomas Combes; Thusitha Jayasundera; Tobias Menzies; Dame Tracey Emin; Tracey Seaward; Vijay Mistry; Vivian Munn; Young Fathers (all members); Zainab Hassan 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council leaders visit Portakabin to champion skills and apprenticeships

    Source: City of York

    The Deputy Leader of City of York Council, alongside senior council officers, recently visited the Portakabin head office in York.

    Portakabin, the market leader in the manufacture and construction of modular buildings, is one of York’s largest employers, with over 1,000 people working across its head office and manufacturing facility in the city. The company has proudly called York home for more than 60 years.

    As a globally recognised brand, Portakabin recently welcomed local leaders to its York headquarters to discuss future growth opportunities, the importance of strong public-private partnerships, and to reflect on recent successes, including a thriving apprenticeship scheme that is opening skilled career paths for young people across the region.

    The apprenticeship scheme at Portakabin offers its people development opportunities, with 98% of apprentices offered a full-time career with the company once their apprenticeship completes.

    Apprenticeships range from the required skills for modular building construction such as electrical apprenticeships, to product design, quantity surveying, finance, and marketing.

    Councillor Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council with responsibility for Economy and Culture, said:

    I was delighted to accept the invitation from Portakabin to visit their head office and hear about the work taking place to provide skilled and well-paid jobs.

    “York is a fantastic place to do business, we have a highly skilled population, and it is a great place to live.

    “A key priority of this council is for the city to have a fair, thriving, green economy for all, which provides opportunities and well-paid jobs. Portakabin are one of many amazing businesses in York who will help us to achieve that ambition. It was particularly good to hear so much about their apprenticeship schemes and how that is turning into long-term careers for our young people.”

    Dan Ibbetson, CEO at Portakabin said:

    We were delighted to welcome Councillor Pete Kilbane to our Head Office here in York. We are proud to be a York based business, delivering exceptional spaces across the UK and Northern Europe from our home here in Huntington.

    “Our successes are testament to the people that work here, the highly skilled and motivated teams that deliver a meaningful impact both in work and the wider York community. It was a pleasure to give Councillor Kilbane and other senior leaders from the council an insight into the people, community and spaces we deliver here at Portakabin.”

    For businesses big and small there’s lots of support available to help your business prosper and thrive through the council’s Growth Managers. For more information visit our Grow Your Business webpage or email economicgrowth@york.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Official launch of LGBTQIA+ Awareness Week

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Official launch of LGBTQIA+ Awareness Week

    22 May 2025

    The launch of LGBTQIA+ Awareness Week took place last week with a special event and exhibition of a section of the Pride Quilt, created over thirty years ago.

    The event was attended by members of UNISON who first initiated Awareness Week, LGBTQIA support organisations Rainbow and Foyle Pride, and members of the Council’s recently established LGBTQIA+ Working Group, plus many friends and supporters of the LGBTQIA+ community.

    The section of the Quilt on display is a tribute to those who sadly lost their lives to AIDS and members of the family of one of the event’s founders Patrick Doherty were present at the launch. Patrick, who died from the disease, was fondly remembered by his family at the event, in particular his sister Karen who gave a moving speech about the ongoing need for support for the LGBTQIA+ community locally.

    Also speaking at the launch, Martin McConnelogue and Michael McLaughlin, fellow co-founders of LGBTQIA+ Awareness Week, stressed the importance of providing support for a marginalized community. They welcomed the event and the presence of the Doherty family and also thanked local organisations and Council for making a local launch possible. This was echoed by Jason Dunne of Foyle Pride.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: European Climate Change Adaptation 2025

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Climate Change Adaptation 2025 is one of the largest conferences on climate change adaptation. It is held every two years in Europe since 2013. The conference presents fundamental new research findings as well as implementation experiences from adaptation projects.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding for Major City Projects Welcomed

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Funding from the Scottish Government to assist major projects in Dundee is being welcome by senior councillors.

    Awards will be used to support development of the Dundee Museum of Transport at the former Maryfield tram depot and assist efforts to improve the Lochee area of the city.

    £1 million is coming from the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund for the museum of transport. (link to museum news release on website)

    Meanwhile, the Scottish Government’s Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme is awarding £695,000 towards the ongoing Lochee Placemaking Project.

    This will support work to improve and unlock a number of vacant sites along Lochee High Street.

    Scottish Government investment will allow the addition of a major new water and drainage system in the High Street to allow development of social housing.

    Councillor Steven Rome, Dundee City Council convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure, said: “I am delighted that the Dundee Museum of Transport is receiving another major award to help in the journey to redevelop the former tram depot into a new attraction..

    “There is real excitement building around the project and I would like to congratulate all connected with the museum for this significant step forward.”

    Depute convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Cllr Siobhan Tolland, added: “I welcome funding from the Scottish Government which will help us to invest in the future of Lochee.

    “This will assist in transforming currently derelict sites making them viable for the development of much needed social housing in the area.”

    “The Lochee Placemaking project, which will be taken forward with Scottish Water, will provide drainage solutions at locations on Lochee High Street, Bank Street and the former Bright Street church.

    “It will allow us to take forward positive projects for the area and its people.”

    The Lochee Placemaking Project is already underway with refurbishment of two shop units, while preparation work is taking place for a major new mural at Bank Street.

    A new landscaped area will be provided at the corner of Bank Street and High Street and a heritage trail will be established.

    Construction works are expected to start in autumn and will continue into early next year.

    Support has come from the Lochee Residents and Tenants association and Love Lochee who have raised funds for the heritage trail and mural and assisted the council in efforts to attract funding.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More than a dozen people trapped in landslides in southwest China

    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

    GUIYANG, May 22 (Xinhua) — Two mountain landslides occurred in southwest China’s Guizhou Province on Thursday, trapping more than a dozen people.

    The incidents occurred in Changshi Township and Gowa Township, Dafang County, the province, at around 03:00 and 09:00, respectively. According to preliminary estimates by local authorities, two people are buried under the rubble in Changshi Township, while more than 10 people were buried in six residential buildings in Qingyang Village, Gowa Township, where eight families lived.

    Police, emergency response teams and firefighters quickly arrived at the scene to conduct search and rescue operations. They are equipped with life detectors, drones and other necessary equipment. Sniffer dogs are helping them in their search.

    The rescue operation in Gowa parish is hampered by steep slopes and mountainous terrain. Local authorities said the exact number of people trapped under the rubble has yet to be determined.

    China’s Ministry of Emergency Management immediately launched a Level 4 geological disaster response and dispatched a task force to the scene to lead the rescue efforts.

    The department demanded that the situation at the site of the emergency be assessed as soon as possible, rescue operations be organized in a scientifically sound manner, and secondary disasters be prevented. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Six Inches of Soil documentary screening in Ashgabat

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Six Inches of Soil documentary screening in Ashgabat

    The United Kingdom and Turkmenistan explore sustainable agriculture through “Six Inches of Soil” screening and panel discussion.

    Discussion after the screening of the British documentary Six Inches of Soil.

    On 15 May, the British Embassy in Turkmenistan hosted another successful screening of the British documentary Six Inches of Soil as part of the official visit of Dr Undala Alam, FCDO’s Regional Central Asia Climate Adviser.

    Discussion with Dr Undala Alam, FCDO’s Regional Central Asia Climate Adviser, after the screening of the documentary Six Inches of Soil.

    The event brought together experienced farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs, senior government officials, academics, and researchers to discuss the critical role of regenerative agriculture in addressing today’s environmental and agricultural challenges.

    Screening of the British documentary Six Inches of Soil in Ashgabat.

    Following the film, Dr Alam led an interactive and thought-provoking discussion where participants raised insightful questions, shared local expertise, and expressed great interest in applying regenerative practices in Turkmenistan.

    Discussion with Dr Undala Alam, after the screening of the British documentary.

    This discussion underlined the region’s growing concern for climate resilience and food security. The UK Government remains committed to supporting the countries of Central Asia in their transition towards more sustainable and climate-friendly agricultural systems.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran agrees to hold fifth round of proxy nuclear talks with US

    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

    TEHRAN, May 22 (Xinhua) — Iran has agreed to Oman’s proposal to hold a fifth round of proxy nuclear talks with the United States in Rome on Friday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said on Wednesday.

    In his statement, Baghaei noted that the Iranian negotiating team is committed to protecting the country’s rights and interests in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including uranium enrichment and the lifting of harsh sanctions, and will spare no effort to achieve these goals.

    Since April, with Oman’s assistance, Iranian and US delegations have held four rounds of proxy talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme and lifting US sanctions. The fourth round took place in Muscat on May 11. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator to investigate Seven Dials Playhouse over financial concerns

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Regulator to investigate Seven Dials Playhouse over financial concerns

    The Charity Commission has launched a statutory inquiry into Seven Dials Playhouse due to ongoing concerns over its long-term financial viability.

    Seven Dials Playhouse’s purpose is to advance education and the arts for public benefit through research, discussions, seminars and vocational training. It also has a purpose to provide facilities for the arts (especially theatre), and to produce educational plays.  

    The Commission has been engaging with the charity since 2024 regarding its decision to sell its Central London property, wider concerns around its finances, and how the charity is being managed. 

    The Commission continued its engagement to further assess financial concerns as part of a regulatory compliance case. As part of this engagement, the charity has provided several revised drafts of a business plan to the Commission. However, this has failed to reassure the regulator of the charity’s long-term financial viability and has therefore raised concerns about significant risks to the charity’s funds. 

    The regulator has now launched a statutory inquiry, enabling it to use its full suite of regulatory powers to investigate Seven Dials Playhouse. 

    The Inquiry will examine if the trustees have complied with their legal duties in respect of the administration, governance and management of the charity, and in particular:  

    • the charity’s financial management, including the trustees’ plans for its future financial sustainability  

    • whether the charity is being managed in accordance with its governing document and is operating in furtherance of its objects  

    • whether there has been misconduct and/or mismanagement by the trustees 

    The scope of the inquiry may be extended if additional regulatory issues emerge during the Commission’s investigation.   

    Ends

    Notes to editors: 

    1. The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Find out more.  

    2. On 6 May 2025, the Charity Commission opened a statutory inquiry into the charity under section 46 of the Charities Act 2011(‘the Act’) as a result of its regulatory concerns that there is or has been misconduct and/ or mismanagement in the administration of the charity. 

    3. A statutory inquiry is a legal power enabling the Commission to formally investigate matters of regulatory concern within a charity and to use protective powers for the benefit of the charity and its beneficiaries, assets, or reputation.  

    4. An inquiry will investigate and establish the facts of the case so that the Commission can determine the extent of any misconduct and/or mismanagement; the extent of the risk to the charity, its work, property, beneficiaries, employees or volunteers; and decide what action is needed to resolve the concerns.

    Press office

    Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A. Mordvichev assumed the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation

    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

    Moscow, May 22 /Xinhua/ — Colonel General Andrei Mordvichev has assumed the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Ground Forces of the Russian Armed Forces. Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov presented him with a standard. This was reported on Thursday by the Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper.

    According to the report, the head of the Russian military department, conducting this military ritual, introduced the recently appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Ground Forces of the Russian Armed Forces, Colonel General Andrei Mordvichev, to the personnel of the Main Command of the Ground Forces and expressed confidence that the military leader, who has extensive combat experience, will continue his service with dignity.

    A. Mordvichev was born on January 14, 1976 in Pavlodar, Republic of Kazakhstan. In 1997, he graduated from the Novosibirsk Higher Combined Arms Command School of the Siberian Military District. In 2023, he was appointed commander of the Central Military District. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –