NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Genome engineering for species conservation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Much has been made of the potential of genome engineering to bring back extinct species.  But what about its potential for biodiversity and conservation of existing threatened species?

    Traditional conservation techniques such as captive breeding and habitat protection can be successful in boosting population numbers but this can leave species populations with low genetic diversity, leaving them more vulnerable to future threats like new diseases or climate change.

    In a new Perspectives article in Nature Reviews Biodiversity, a team of scientists examines the potential for CRISPR-based editing to complement existing conservation in the following ways:

    1. Restoring lost variation – bringing back genetic diversity that has been lost from the gene pool of the modern populations of threatened species, using DNA from samples of the species collected decades or even centuries ago, which are stored in natural history museums all over the world
    2. Facilitated adaptation – introducing genes from related, better-adapted species to confer traits like heat tolerance or pathogen resistance, equipping threatened species to adapt to rapid environmental change
    3. Reducing genetic load – populations that have previously crashed in numbers often carry harmful mutations that have become fixed by chance, so targeted gene edits could replace these mutations with the healthy variant from before the population crash – with the potential to improve fertility, survival rates, and overall health.

    Is this what the future of conservation looks like?  What potential does it have and what are the risks scientists need to avoid?

    Journalists came to this briefing to hear from three of the authors and put their questions to them.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Cock van Oosterhout, Professor of Evolutionary Genetics at the University of East Anglia 

    Dr Anna Keyte, Species Director at Colossal Biosciences

    Prof Jim Groombridge, Professor of Biodiversity Conservation, Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent

    This Briefing was accompanied by an SMC Roundup of comments. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at estimates of brain ageing and the Covid pandemic

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Nature Communications looks at brain ageing during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

    Dr Eugene Duff, Advanced Research Fellow in Informatics, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, said:

    “Mohammadi-Nejad and colleagues present a unique analysis of MRI data from the UK Biobank study to identify evidence for the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic period – independent of the infection itself – on brain health and aging.  They were able to show that, even in the absence of COVID-19 infection, living through the pandemic was associated with accelerated aging of the brain, and could point to a variety of factors potentially contributing to this acceleration, such as sex and socio-demographic background.  With this approach, the authors were able to quantify more extensive brain health associations of the pandemic period than studies focusing purely on effects of the virus itself.  However, as an observational study it is not possible to fully exclude that factors unrelated to the pandemic could contribute to the observed acceleration. While the events of the pandemic were exceptional, this work demonstrates the stark effects that the conditions of an individual’s life may have on brain and cognitive health, and the value of careful dissection of the myriad of local and global factors contributing to these conditions.”

    Prof Masud Husain, Professor of Neurology & Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Oxford, said:

    “While this is a very carefully conducted analysis, we have to be cautious with interpretation.

    “The brain age difference between the two groups (as indexed by brain scanning) was on average only 5 months, and difference in cognitive performance between groups was only on the total time taken to complete one of the tests.  Is this really going to make a significant difference in everyday life?

    “Furthermore, the time between scans was much shorter in the people scanned before and after the pandemic, compared to those who had both scans before the pandemic. We therefore don’t know if brain aging would have recovered if more time elapsed.”

    Dr Maxime Taquet, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, said:

    “This landmark brain imaging study suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic may have accelerated brain ageing in some people.  By comparing scans taken more than two years apart, researchers found that the average person’s brain appeared to age an extra 5.5 months for every year lived during the pandemic.  It is important to note that the majority of people showed brain ageing at the expected rate.  However, a higher-than-usual proportion showed striking increases in brain age of an extra 15 to 20 months per year.

    “Among those infected with COVID-19, the increased brain age correlated with lower scores in a test of thinking skills like attention and problem-solving.  This might help explain why some people who had COVID-19 have impaired cognition.

    “The findings raise important questions about the long-term neurological impact of the pandemic, whether due to infection itself or the broader psychological and social stress it caused.  The authors suggest that the observed brain ageing may reflect a biopsychosocial effect combining the impact of COVID-19 infection with the psychological and social stresses of the pandemic.  However, it is also possible that the observed association is primarily biological, driven largely by undetected infections.  An analysis by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation estimated that over 90% of the UK population may have been infected by the end of 2022, meaning that many participants classified as ‘uninfected’ might have had asymptomatic or undocumented cases.  This raises the possibility that viral exposure played a more central role in the study findings than assumed.

    “Another possibility is that the findings do not reflect a causal relationship and are due to a form of selection bias.  For instance, if individuals whose brains were ageing more slowly happened to be scanned sooner, and therefore before the pandemic, this could have contributed to the observed association despite the study’s efforts to rule out such confounding.

    “The study was well-designed and based on unique UK Biobank data with repeated brain scans.  The researchers also acknowledge limitations.  The sample excludes people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and depression and the UK Biobank underrepresents the most socioeconomically deprived groups, the very populations in which the association between the pandemic and brain ageing was largest. This means the association in the general population could be even more pronounced.”

    ‘Accelerated brain ageing during the COVID19 pandemic’ by Ali-Reza Mohammadi-Nejad et al. was published in Nature Communications at 16:00 UK time on Tuesday 22 July 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-61033-4

    Declared interests

    Dr Eugene Duff: “I have no conflicts of interest.”

    Prof Masud Husain: “I don’t have any conflict of interest.”

    Dr Maxime Taquet: “I do not have a conflict of interest.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment: 22 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appointment: 22 July 2025

    The King has been pleased to approve the following appointment.

    The King has been pleased to approve the following appointment:

    • Lord Lemos CMG CBE as Lord in Waiting (Government Whip).

    Lord Moraes OBE has left the Government.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: United Nations – United States’ withdrawal from UNESCO (22.07.25)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    France regrets the United States’ decision to leave UNESCO, of which it is a founder member and a host country for its headquarters.

    Founded in 1946 to prevent conflicts through education, culture and tolerance, UNESCO helps maintain international peace and security. It embodies an effective multilateralism of action, focused on its missions to benefit populations, operating rehabilitation programmes in conflict zones, from Mosul in Iraq to Odessa in Ukraine.

    In this respect, France welcomes the reforms begun in 2018 by Director-General Audrey Azoulay, which have led to a stronger consensus within the organization.

    France supports UNESCO, which backs several of its priorities at international level, particularly access to education for all, the protection of endangered heritage, the protection of our oceans, the responsible development of artificial intelligence and the fight against anti-Semitism and hate speech.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: I research rip currents where ‘Cosby Show’ star Malcolm-Jamal Warner drowned. Here’s why they’re so deadly

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Chris Houser, Professor in Department of Earth and Environmental Science, and Dean of Science, University of Waterloo

    Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the actor who played Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has drowned on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.

    It is reported that he was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limon province when a current pulled him offshore. This is a beach popular among surfers and one that’s known to have large waves and strong currents.

    It’s also a beach that I have taken students to in order to study the formation of rip currents and to better understand what beach users know about the hazard.

    What exactly are rip currents?

    Rip currents — commonly referred to as rips or colloquially as rip tides — are found on ocean beaches and some large lakes around the world.



    Read more:
    The Great Lakes are powerful. Learning about ‘rip currents’ can help prevent drowning

    The rips at Playa Cocles and along a large part of the Costa Rican Caribbean coast are known as channel or bathymetric rips that form as the nearshore sand bar moves toward the land through the summer. The water thrown towards the land by the breaking waves returns offshore as a concentrated and fast flowing current at gaps in the nearshore sand bar.

    During storm conditions, we have measured the rip currents at Playa Cocles at over two metres per second. These rips are known to increase rapidly (or pulse) in strength due to changes in wave breaking, leading to unsuspecting swimmers being taken far offshore and exiting beyond the zone of breaking waves.

    Rip current at Playa Cocles showing change in size and strength with surfers for scale. (Chris Houser)

    While it can be difficult to spot a rip from shore, they can be identified by an area of relatively calm water between breaking waves, a patch of darker water or the offshore flow of water, sediment and debris.

    Caught in a rip current

    A person caught in a rip is transported away from shore into deeper waters, but they aren’t pulled under the water. If they are a weak swimmer or try to fight the current, they may panic and fail to find a way out of the rip and back to shore. Survivor stories highlight panic, anxiety, distress and fear, a tendency to fight the current and an inability to make a decision on how to escape the rip.

    While it is possible to “break the grip of the rip” by swimming parallel to the beach or toward breaking waves at an angle to the beach, there is no single escape strategy due to the unique rip circulation pattern.

    It’s possible to escape a rip by flipping onto your back, floating to keep your head above the water and following the current until you’re returned to the shore by the current or able to swim safely toward the shore. If you are taken beyond where the waves break, or you’re unable to swim back to shore, continue to float and signal for help.

    Rip currents account for more than 50 deaths a year in Costa Rica; approximately 19 drownings a year involve foreign tourists from the United States, Nicaragua, Canada and Germany. While most drownings in the country occur on Pacific coast beaches that are a short distance to the city of San José, more than five drownings occur each year along the Caribbean coast.

    Playa Cocles was the site of five drownings that occurred over eight days in 2004, an event that prompted tourism-dependent business owners to establish a lifeguard station on the beach.

    Costa Rican drownings

    On average, each drowning in Costa Rica costs more than US$2 million (USD). This includes the direct costs of search and rescue, the costs of repatriation and the long-term economic burden of a lost life. This is in addition to the great personal loss experienced by family and friends.

    A survey at Playa Cocles and other beaches in Costa Rica revealed that a majority of beach users did not observe warning signs and that many were unable to interpret the warning and did not change their behaviour.

    The majority of foreign drowning victims in Costa Rica had limited knowledge of rips and were unable to avoid the times and locations that were most hazardous.

    In general, visitors to a beach often use simple visual cues when deciding to take risks. Recent studies suggest that tourists think beach access points and resorts are located adjacent to safe swimming areas, particularly when visual cues such as manicured paths and promotional posters that promote swimming at those locations.

    Visitors are a high-risk group for drownings. They’re generally unfamiliar with the beach and its safety measures and often have poor knowledge of beach hazards, such as rip currents and breaking waves. This lack of knowledge can be exacerbated by language barriers, an overconfidence in swimming ability and peer pressure.

    Rip current and beach users at Playa Cocles. The red flag was placed by lifeguards to mark the location of the rip for beach users. (Chris Houser)

    Playa Cocles is a beautiful beach, but it’s known to have dangerous rips depending on the size of the breaking waves and the position of the sand bar.

    When visiting any beach — from the Caribbean to the Great Lakes — it’s important to remember that there may be rip currents and to take serious precautions.

    Chris Houser receives funding from NSERC.

    – ref. I research rip currents where ‘Cosby Show’ star Malcolm-Jamal Warner drowned. Here’s why they’re so deadly – https://theconversation.com/i-research-rip-currents-where-cosby-show-star-malcolm-jamal-warner-drowned-heres-why-theyre-so-deadly-261653

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Livestock and lions make uneasy neighbours: how a fence upgrade helped protect domestic and wild animals in Tanzania

    Source: The Conversation – Africa (2) – By Jonathan Salerno, Associate Professor, Colorado State University, Colorado State University

    Protecting livestock in areas where large carnivores (like lions) live is increasingly important as human land use expands, wildlife habitat shrinks, and climatic changes reshape the ways in which humans and wildlife interact. Protecting the carnivores from livestock owners is important too. Intact carnivore populations support more resilient food webs and the ecosystem services they provide.

    It’s not easy for people, livestock, and carnivores to live together without conflict, though. One of the best ways to reduce conflict is to protect livestock like cattle and sheep from being attacked by predators.

    There are various methods to do this, like guarding livestock or erecting fences. That’s all very well for the livestock inside the fences, but do predators simply turn to the nearest unprotected livestock for their meal instead? Are the neighbours’ cattle, sheep, and goats at greater risk? This question hasn’t been explored much by researchers.

    We’re a group of conservation practitioners and scientists who have studied the interactions of carnivores, livestock, and people in Tanzania and elsewhere for decades to try and find solutions to conflict problems.

    Our study area is next to a national park which protects important populations of lion, leopard, hyena, African wild dog, and cheetah. The people who live here have traditionally kept their livestock overnight in enclosures made of acacia-thorn branches. More recently, some of them have built pens, or corrals, from tall chain link fencing. We knew from years working with communities and from previous research that these fortified corrals were effective at keeping livestock safe from predators.

    Our next step was to find out whether this made other nearby livestock less safe.



    Read more:
    What’s behind the conflict between people and animals in Tanzania

    The results were intriguing. We found that the new enclosures made predation less likely in the nearby traditional enclosures too.

    This type of beneficial spillover effect had yet to be documented in other systems where interventions aim to protect livestock from large carnivores.

    Our results show that in conservation, it’s important to look closely at complex local dynamics. The findings may help explain why there’s so much uncertainty about the effectiveness of various human–wildlife conflict mitigation strategies.

    Beneficial spillover effects

    People who keep livestock in east Africa have long had strategies to keep their animals safe from large carnivores. Sometimes acacia-thorn night enclosures (known locally as bomas), intensive herding practices, and guarding dogs work well.

    Other times, and especially in communities within and adjacent to large, protected carnivore populations, traditional strategies fall short.

    This is the case in Tanzania’s Ruaha-Rungwa Landscape. In our study area adjacent to Ruaha National Park, any pastoralist or agropastoralist (herding and crop farming) household has about a 30% chance of losing one or more animals to predation each year. This is a serious economic loss on top of important cultural and emotional costs.



    Read more:
    Losing a calf to wolves in Sweden hurts. But if lions take one in Uganda, a farming family’s income is gone

    Lion Landscapes, an organisation that some of us have been running for over a decade, works to support human-carnivore coexistence. Adjacent to Ruaha, we have been partnering with households to build 1.8-metre chain-link corrals. We subsidise them. Households contribute 25% of the cost and some of the labour for construction.

    We analysed about 25,000 monthly reports of livestock predation in fenced and traditional enclosures, using statistical models. There were 846 predation events over nearly four years. Unexpectedly, while we did detect spillover effects, these appeared to be beneficial. Rather than displacing conflicts, fortified enclosures actually conferred protective effects on their traditional-enclosure neighbours.

    For example, households within 50 metres (the minimum observed distance) of a fortified enclosure were half as likely to experience predation compared with distant households 2 kilometres away. And these beneficial effects increased with the number of fortified enclosures in a neighbourhood. Finally, the effects appeared to be durable over time.

    The fortified enclosures were extremely effective. We showed that households could break even after paying for the fence in just a few years through avoided livestock losses. And we know that when domestic animals aren’t being killed, their owners are more tolerant of predators. We didn’t record carnivore killings in this study but it has happened fairly frequently in the area in the past.

    In a few of the world’s human-wildlife conflict systems, where data exist to assess spillover effects, there is evidence that detrimental spillovers do occur. For instance, beehive deterrents may redirect elephants to nearby crop fields, or lethal removal of individual wolves may redirect the surviving pack to prey on adjacent ranches. Nevertheless, these are very under-studied interactions.

    Livestock management and carnivore coexistence

    In systems where humans, livestock, and wildlife overlap and sometimes come into conflict, management strategies too often focus on wildlife. Another option is to reduce whatever attracts wildlife. In the case of large carnivores, this means managing livestock.



    Read more:
    Livestock are threatened by predators – but old-fashioned shepherding may be an effective solution

    Our results support this approach by demonstrating that management and protection of livestock is fundamental for reducing conflict, and can benefit not only livestock owners but landscape-level coexistence.

    Conservationists and policy-makers need to encourage these practices that benefit people, carnivores, and livestock in shared landscapes.

    Amy Dickman works for Lion Landscapes as the Joint CEO

    Jonathan Salerno, Kevin Crooks, Rekha Warrier, and Stewart Breck do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Livestock and lions make uneasy neighbours: how a fence upgrade helped protect domestic and wild animals in Tanzania – https://theconversation.com/livestock-and-lions-make-uneasy-neighbours-how-a-fence-upgrade-helped-protect-domestic-and-wild-animals-in-tanzania-258113

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding food labelling policy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding food labelling policy

    Letter from the Animal Sentience Committee to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee regarding a food labelling policy.

    Documents

    Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding food labelling policy

    HTML

    Details

    The Animal Sentience Committee sent this letter to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA) committee on 21 July 2025. It outlines the committee’s view on the consideration of impacts on animal welfare in food labelling policy.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Biobank’s whole body imaging project scans 100,000 volunteers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Biobank has reached its target of scanning 100,000 volunteers as part of a landmark project to provide for scientific research the most detailed look inside the human body. This is now the world’s largest whole-body imaging project – scanning the brains, hearts, abdomens, blood vessels, bones and joints of volunteers to give researchers a new layer of detail to explore what happens in people’s bodies as they age and how and why we become ill as we age.

    One billion images have now been generated from these scans, and tens of thousands of researchers around the world have been using these (as it has been released in batches since the project began) along with UK Biobank’s information on lifestyle, medical history, genetics and blood proteins from the same volunteers, to do research into ill health.

    Findings from the 1,300 peer-reviewed papers using this data so far include better brain scanning for patients with dementia symptoms in NHS memory clinics, faster analysis of heart scans in over 90 countries, and developments in understanding biological age of organs versus chronological age.

    Soon, approved researchers will have access to the full set of imaging data from all 100,000 volunteers to help develop new diagnostics, preventative medicines and treatments.

    Journalists came to this press briefing to ask your questions and to hear from those running the project discuss:

    – What’s so special about this data and why are researchers so excited by it?

    – How is this project helping the UK and the NHS right now?

    – What scientific findings have the imaging data already led to?

    – Why is the focus now switching to repeating scans of people, rather than scanning more people?

    – Who can use this data and what can they use it for?

    Speakers included:

    Prof Sir Rory Collins, Principal Investigator and Chief Executive, UK Biobank

    Prof Naomi Allen, Chief Scientist, UK Biobank

    Prof Paul Matthews, Chair of the UK Biobank Imaging Working Group; and Edmond and Lily Safra Professor of Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Imperial College London; and Director, The Rosalind Franklin Institute

    Prof Louise Thomas, Professor of Metabolic Imaging, University of Westminster

    Prof Rachel McKendry, Executive Director, Discovery, Wellcome

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community efforts lead to Green Flags for Perth park’s gardens

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    In the run up to the national Love Parks Week (26 July to 3 August 2025) which highlights the vital role green spaces play in boosting the health and wellbeing of residents and communities, local ‘in bloom’ charity Beautiful Perth and Perth and Kinross Council will be marking the achievement of two Green Flag Community Awards* from Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB) for the Heather Garden and Compassionate Friends Garden, both in Bellwood Riverside Park on the banks of the River Tay in Perth.  

    The Heather Garden has been a real partnership project between Beautiful Perth and the Council, with discussions beginning in 2011 and work getting underway on site in 2012 to transform and refresh a previously overgrown and less appealing area of the park. The garden now comprises 15 beds containing 600 varieties and over 16,000 heather plants, all maintained and managed by Beautiful Perth, providing year-round colour for visitors and a haven for insect pollinators. The charity was also in 2022 awarded the National Collection of Erica carnea heathers by Plant Heritage.  This follows on from the unique achievement of Riverside Park winning Best Park in the UK in the RHS Britain in Bloom Awards in both 2018 and 2019.  

    The Compassionate Friends Garden was developed to create a picturesque, peaceful garden for reflection and contemplation following a request from the Compassionate Friends UK, a charity that supports bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents. In 2012 remedial work done by the Council and Beautiful Perth uncovered a small round turreted stone building dating back to the 1800’s on site. The building forms the focal point of the garden, with further work uncovering a waterway and wells. The space was then transformed with sustainable pollinator plants for all year colour and interest by Beautiful Perth volunteers as well as the planting of rowan and snakeskin maple trees with marker stones and a sculpture of a robin. In 2018, Compassionate Friends held their annual gathering in Perth and unveiled a new bench for visitors and at the entrance to the garden, a beautiful carved commemorative stone.  

    Vice-Convener of Climate Change and Sustainability, Councillor Liz Barrett said: “As we head towards Love Parks Week, the fantastic achievement of Green Flag Awards for these two very different but equally beautiful gardens reflects how vital parks and open spaces are for our health and wellbeing as places to relax, exercise, appreciate the outdoors and nature and much more. 

    “I’d like to thank Beautiful Perth, and volunteer groups in other parts of Perth and Kinross, for their key role in maintaining and developing green spaces that benefit us all and contribute to improving our environment and biodiversity. Everyone can help, whether by volunteering locally or simply taking a few minutes to feedback to our Community Greenspace team about biodiversity in your local park.” 

    Chair of Beautiful Perth, Gordon Lindsay commented: “Our volunteers over many years have taken a genuine pride in cultivating and maintaining the Compassionate Friends and Heather Gardens to a high standard.  

    “Both gardens exhibit a unique horticultural skill level appreciated by the many visitors and tourists to Riverside Park and importantly provide an ideal haven for bees, butterflies and other wildlife. 

    “The Green Flag Awards are the “icing on the cake” for the ‘Beautiful Perth’ volunteers acknowledging their tireless work and efforts in a special corner of Perth.  We would also like to acknowledge and thank our supporters, Perth and Kinross Council, The Gannochy Trust, the Heather Society and Kilmac.” 

    Jamie Ormiston, Training and Accreditation Coordinator at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “Parks across Scotland are vital spaces for people of all ages to reconnect with nature and I’m delighted we once again have Green Flag Award winners all over the country – including plenty of new areas – for people to enjoy during the summer months. 

    “The Heather Garden and Compassionate Friends Garden are two of our new Community Award winners and their awards show the dedication, care and commitment of all involved in maintaining and improving Riverside Park. 

    “Our stalwart winners have a brilliant history of commitment to environmental excellence and a desire to offer visitors a safe and enjoyable place to visit.  

    “Our new winners have shown a similar desire and their journey is only just beginning but I look forward to many more wins in the future.” 

    *The Green Flag Awards are awarded to parks and green spaces that can demonstrate excellent management and environmental standards. Further information on the Awards can be found at Keep Scotland Beautiful’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government secures label-led measures to boost earnings for UK artists

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government secures label-led measures to boost earnings for UK artists

    Major boost for UK music creators as government drives industry to produce new measures to support legacy artists, songwriters and session musicians

    *Changes estimated by labels to deliver tens of millions of pounds in new investment to support musicians by 2030, rewarding artists for their work and driving growth through Plan for Change *Agreement backed by UK arms of major labels Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group

    UK music creators are set to benefit from a boost to their earnings thanks to the Government driving forward a new label-led agreement on streaming pay agreed today (Tuesday 22nd July).

    The Creator Remuneration Working Group (CRWG), chaired by Creative Industries Minister Sir Chris Bryant, has been meeting regularly since 2024 to explore industry-led action – driving growth in the creative industries as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    This process has delivered a set of measures designed to boost the earnings of legacy artists, songwriters and session musicians and marks a further step towards ensuring the music streaming market works for everyone, on top of existing industry programmes.

    The principles include a new framework for the renegotiation of contracts by artists who signed record deals before streaming became commonplace, in addition to support for the digitisation of their back catalogues so that it can be made available online. This aims to help legacy artists to increase their streaming earnings for their existing body of work. 

    Support for songwriters and composers includes a commitment to the payment of per diems and expenses for recording sessions, to ensure they are not left out of pocket.

    The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and Musicians’ Union also agreed to an uplift in session musician fees of up to 40% for pop sessions and 15% for classical to ensure they are more fairly paid for their work. 

    The agreed principles have been adopted by the BPI and Association of Independent Music (AIM) and recommended to their UK members. The UK divisions of Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group, the world’s three largest labels, have also committed to delivering them.

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    Streaming has totally revolutionised how audiences discover and enjoy music, and how artists connect with their fans across the globe.

    But we have heard loud and clear from creators that more needs to be done to ensure they are fairly compensated when their work is used on streaming platforms.

    That is why I am delighted that the industry has agreed these new measures, which will go a long way to making sure our talented artists and creators are properly rewarded for their hard work, while driving growth through our Plan for Change.

    Creative Industries Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    Everyone loves music and it’s about time we really valued the people who create it. Millions of us use music streaming platforms who provide a fantastic service to their customers, connecting users with a wealth of music from around the world. 

    But many musicians and songwriters are really struggling and artists simply don’t  think they receive their fair share of the profit generated by their work on these platforms. These new measures, which apply specifically in the UK, are an important step in ensuring creators are fairly paid for their work.

    I would like to thank the sector for coming together to drive this positive progress, which will benefit the music industry as a whole.

    Roberto Neri, CEO of Ivors Academy, said:

    We welcome and wish to thank Minister Bryant for the introduction of per diems for songwriters and his support in securing this agreement. There is no music industry without songwriters and these payments will ensure that songwriters are not out of pocket when turning up to work. We look forward to working together over the next 12 months to assess how this package benefits music makers and ensuring that all creators share in the success of streaming remuneration.

    The Government will support industry to deliver these measures in full, in order to improve conditions for UK music makers. The impact of the measures will be monitored and reviewed in a year’s time, working closely with members of the group to understand the extent to which they are improving creator earnings as intended. 

    The Government will then assess the need for further intervention, to ensure this package delivers on its objective to bring about real change for creators. 

    Labels estimate these changes will deliver tens of millions of pounds in new investment to support creators by 2030, which will help drive growth in the creative industries as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    The Government has also committed to continuing to look at the issue of streaming pay for session musicians and has convened a meeting in September with key organisations from the music industry to take this forward.

    Further quotes

    The Council Of Music Makers said: 

    We greatly appreciate the efforts of the Government in seeking to improve the streaming economy for music-makers. Minister Chris Bryant has dedicated a great deal of time and resources trying to agree creator-friendly terms with the BPI and major labels, in an attempt to address unfair remuneration. Over the next year, we will work in good faith to support music-makers to test these initiatives and whether they can deliver meaningful change. 

    We will work closely with the Government during the one year monitoring of these measures. In 2021 Parliament’s Culture, Media & Sport Select Committee raised several fundamental issues regarding the streaming business model, calling for ‘a complete reset’. The Council Of Music Makers remains committed to achieving this objective and reaching a fairer settlement for all music-makers and we will now collectively pursue additional legislative measures to achieve positive change for those that create the work our industry is built on.

    Sophie Jones, Chief Strategy Officer at the BPI, said: 

    After five years of detailed scrutiny and analysis, we are pleased to put in place these creator remuneration principles for UK labels in response to specific concerns identified in the UK’s streaming debate. Many more artists are succeeding in the era of streaming than before – and we are confident that these targeted measures will lead to positive and sustainable outcomes and support for legacy artists, songwriters and session musicians, ensuring that our members’ significant ongoing investment into the development of British talent and the growth of our world leading UK music industry will be to the benefit of all. This has been a collaborative process and we are grateful to our members and fellow trade organisations for their expertise and to Minister Chris Bryant and the DCMS officials for their stewardship of this process.

    Baron Brennan of Canton, former Chair of the DCMS Select Committee which launched the inquiry into the Economics of Music Streaming, said: 

    Protecting the dignity of British songwriters by putting money in their pockets for writing sessions is a real first, and greater transparency over artist renegotiation is most welcome. I commend Minister Bryant for all his efforts. Further progress is needed on streaming but I’m encouraged by the Minister’s commitment to pursue progress through further talks this autumn on session musician income from streaming.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa and the UN, at the UN Security Council debate on peace and security.

    Mr President, the United Kingdom thanks Pakistan for convening this timely debate at a time when multilateralism faces unprecedented strain.

    As the Secretary-General has said, the world is witnessing more conflict than at any time since the founding of the United Nations.

    From Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine to the protracted crisis in Gaza, the international community is being tested.

    Our response must strive for peace and be guided by the principles of the UN Charter.
    Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century.

    And this Council, as the UN organ with the primary responsibility for international peace and security, should play a central role.

    That includes through a collective commitment to the rule of law, including international humanitarian law, and to the peaceful settlement of disputes.

    These are not abstract ideals.

    They are principles by which we could collectively prevent and resolve conflict.

    That is why the United Kingdom has kept these principles at the heart of its foreign policy.
    But as we mark the UN’s 80th anniversary, we must seize this moment to revitalise the peace and security architecture, champion human rights, and strengthen the UN development system and humanitarian architecture to ensure all three pillars are collectively fit for purpose.

    We should make full use of the UN’s mediation and conflict prevention capabilities.
    In Sudan, we continue to urge the warring parties to engage meaningfully with existing diplomatic initiatives, including the United Nations’ mediation efforts to achieve a lasting national ceasefire and political solution.

    Here and elsewhere, we need the UN to help address the root causes of conflict.
    Peace operations should be more adaptable, politically attuned and better coordinated with other UN and regional actors, leveraging new technologies and local expertise.
    We must focus not only on brokering peace but on sustaining it.

    The UN’s efforts to verify the implementation of the Peace Agreement in Colombia is a good example of this work in the field.

    And here in New York, we can make better use of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture to support national efforts to sustain peace.

    Underscoring this, we must recall that crucially, sustainable peace can only be achieved through inclusive peace processes, with the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women.

    Mr President, the UN Charter is our shared foundation.

    In this moment of global uncertainty, we must recommit to multilateralism, not as a slogan, but as a strategy.

    The United Kingdom stands ready to work with all Member States to this end, including to uphold peace, security, and the rule of law.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Eurojust helps catch alleged author of threatening emails to schools in Czechia, Slovakia and Latvia

    Source: European Union 2

    Eurojust has assisted the authorities in the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Latvia with the apprehension of the alleged perpetrator who was responsible for sending thousands of emails in September last year threatening schools with explosions. The mass threats, which were also sent to other educational institutions and leisure centres, caused major public concern and led to the suspension of classes at the beginning of the school year.

    Eurojust supported the national authorities involved by setting up a joint investigation team (JIT) dedicated to the case, as well as providing additional cross-border judicial support.

    The alleged perpetrator also used the social network Telegram to spread his threats. He was apprehended in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro last week but was released pending potential further steps to be taken by the authorities.

    © Dnipropetrovsk Regional Prosecutor’s Office

    Given the mass scale of the threats at the same time across three countries, the police authorities involved coordinated their investigations, assisted by the setting up of the JIT. The joint investigative efforts, using the cybercrime expertise of the police, led to the identification of an alleged perpetrator, operating from the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.

    With the participation of Czech and Slovak police officers, a joint action took place in Dnipro last week, during which the alleged perpetrator was apprehended and one individual was questioned. Furthermore, two locations were searched, which led to the seizure of computer equipment.

    Thanks to the good and close cooperation of all the authorities concerned, the operation was successfully carried out under extremely difficult circumstances, very close to the frontline of the war in Ukraine, with Ukrainian, Czech and Slovak officers exposed to heavy risks.

    Eurojust offered support not only through the establishment of the JIT but also by organising a coordination meeting to prepare for the joint action day in Ukraine. The operation was carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:

    • Czech Republic: High Public Prosecutor’s Office in Prague; National Counterterrorism, Extremism and Cybercrime Agency (NCTEKK)
    • Latvia: Rīga Pārdaugava Prosecution Office; 1st Unit of Cybercrime Enforcement Department of the Central Criminal Police Department of the State Police
    • Slovakia: General Prosecutor´s Office of the Slovak Republic; Police Department West, Anti-Crime Unit, Bureau for Combating Organized Crime of the Presidium of the Police Corps (Police ACU); Counter Terrorism Centre, Presidium of the Police Corps
    • Ukraine: Dnipropetrovsk regional Prosecutor’s Office; Main Department of National Police in Dnipropetrovsk region; Division for Combating Cybercrime in Dnipropetrovsk region of the Cyber Police Department of National Police of Ukraine

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Schools in Westminster to receive up to £8K to boost pupils’ health and wellbeing | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Twenty-five schools in Westminster have received up to £8,000 in grant funding to improve pupils’ health and wellbeing.

    The school health and wellbeing survey, a Westminster City Council initiative administered by the Schools Health Education Unit (SHEU), was implemented in 25 schools across the city in 2024. The survey, covering topics such as emotional health and wellbeing, safety, food and diet and physical activity, collected responses from 1,357 pupils.

    The survey results have helped the council understand what children need to improve their health and wellbeing and it has given schools a valuable insight into their pupils’ lives. 

    Following the survey, each school has received their confidential report and a grant to act on the findings relevant to their pupils – £5,000 for primaries and £8,000 for secondaries and special schools.

    Gabby Woolf, Vice Principal of King Solomon Academy, said:

    “King Solomon Academy is very grateful to have received a grant from Westminster after participating in the school health and wellbeing survey, which is especially crucial in these times of scarcity. Our findings have shown supporting pupils’ emotional health and wellbeing is important for their health and education. The grant has allowed us to better fund our therapeutic counselling provision, which is run by Place 2 Be and has been a huge support for pupils’ emotional wellbeing and mental health.”

    Cllr Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector, said:

    “The voices of children and young people are crucial for designing comprehensive health and wellbeing programmes that answer to their needs. This survey and funding will give schools the knowledge and resources needed to act on the issues that matter most to their pupils, whether that is online safety, mental wellbeing or physical health. It reflects our continued commitment to building a healthier and fairer community for our children in Westminster.”

    The council currently leads on a range of health and wellbeing services and initiatives for children and young people:

    • The School Health Service has been enhanced with a wider emotional and mental health offer. It has been delivering asthma training (as part of the Asthma Friendly School initiative) and developing school partnership agreements.
    • The funding for the Mental Health Youth Worker service has been extended for two years to support the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people attending Youth Hubs in Westminster.
    • The Edward Wilson Primary School Superzone has been created to help school children play safely, breathe clean air, be active, enjoy a healthy diet and thrive.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A new chapter for young adults with learning disabilities in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth City Council secured funding to purchase a vacant building and transform it into a home for seven young people with complex support needs, some of whom have been living out of area for their education.

    The project was born from a shared ambition: to bring these young people back to Portsmouth for their move into adulthood, closer to their families and communities, and to provide them with a safe, supportive environment where they can live independently.

    The home features six ensuite rooms with communal living spaces and one self-contained flat. The new tenants will benefit from 24-hour support provided by a registered care provider, with the council acting as landlord.

    The young adults will also have access to a wide range of local health and social care services, including day opportunities and sporting activities tailored to adults with learning disabilities.

    Their new home was opened with a celebration to mark the occasion, thanking the many teams and individuals who have made this vision a reality and, importantly, to give the new tenants and their families the chance to look around their new home ahead of their move.

    Michelle (pictured with the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress), is the Mum of one of the new tenants, and is delighted with her son’s new home. She said:

    “For me, this is going to have a positive impact in terms of feeling there is a future for my son – and we haven’t had to make a choice under pressure or take something we weren’t 100% comfortable with. I love the setting – it doesn’t feel like a residential care facility; it feels like a student house. I love the fact that he’s going to be with people of similar age and needs. He has a lot of energy, so he’ll adore the garden, looking out onto trees – it’ll be amazing for him.”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council with responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development said:

    “This project shows the dedication and commitment of multiple teams across the council – showcasing “one council” working.

    From identifying the building and overseeing its refurbishment, to coordinating care and support services, every step has been guided by a shared vision and provides a place for these young adults to live independently.”

    From left to right: Leila Ferguson (Portsmouth Lady Mayoress), Michelle (Mum of new tenant) and Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson (Portsmouth Lord Mayor) at an open morning for the new accommodation.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Modernised aid budget will focus on impact, value for money and transparency

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Modernised aid budget will focus on impact, value for money and transparency

    New aid funding figures published today show how the international aid budget will deliver value for money for the British taxpayer – and maximum impact for the most vulnerable overseas.

    • New figures released today (Tuesday, 22 July) set out how the government will spend the aid budget in 2025/2026, prioritising areas where Britain can make the biggest difference. 

    • The new approach means the UK will prioritise spending through the most impactful multilateral organisations like the World Bank and Gavi, the vaccine alliance, while working to drive reform of these institutions. 

    • Development Minister Baroness Chapman today confirms UK support for the World Bank’s International Development Association – with the fund expected to benefit 1.9 billion people in next three years.

    New aid funding figures published today (Tuesday, 22 July 2025) show how the international aid budget will deliver value for money for the British taxpayer – and maximum impact for the most vulnerable overseas. The cut in the aid budget to 0.3% of Gross National Income from 2027 means every penny must count if the UK is to make progress on its biggest development priorities: to tackle humanitarian, health and climate crises.

    Today’s aid figures, published in the FCDO’s annual report and the first to be released since the cut was announced in February, give an indication of the new approach the Development Minister Baroness Chapman will take. They follow a comprehensive line-by-line strategic review of aid conducted by the Minister, which focused on prioritisation, efficiency, protecting planned humanitarian support and live contracts while ensuring responsible exit from programming where necessary. 

    The pivot will see global organisations with a proven track record of impact, like the World Bank and Gavi, prioritised to deliver better results for the UK taxpayer and the world’s poorest people.  

    The UK will also continue to play a key humanitarian role supporting those in crisis, including in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan, and will hold a reserve fund to respond to future crises at pace.

    However, underperforming multilateral organisations will face funding cuts in future, and as the UK moves to spend less on aid, bilateral support to some countries is also dropping.  

    While bilateral support for some countries will drop, the UK will instead increasingly share expertise, like that of our world leading scientists and financial sector. It will focus on tackling the climate crisis, health threats and humanitarian emergencies, creating stability and growth to help deliver the Plan for Change at home. The National Security Strategy published earlier this year said British interests are best served through effective multilateral cooperation.

    As part of its growing support for impactful multilateral organisations, the UK today confirmed it will honour a pledge to the International Development Association (IDA) – the World Bank’s fund for the poorest countries – having agreed a new way to make payments that reduces costs to UK taxpayers and provides the same value to the Bank. IDA is expected to benefit 1.9 billion people in the next three years.

    Minister for Development Baroness Chapman said: 

    We are modernising our approach to international development. Every pound must work harder for UK taxpayers and the people we help around the world and these figures show how we are starting to do just that through having a clear focus and priorities. 

    The UK is moving towards a new relationship with developing countries, becoming partners and investors, rather than acting as a traditional aid donor. We want to work with countries and share our expertise – from world leading science to the City of London – to help them become no longer dependent on aid, and organisations like the World Bank and Gavi are central to how we can work with others to solve some of the biggest challenges of our time: humanitarian disasters, pandemics and the climate crisis.

    The UK’s support for the multilateral system will come with a renewed push for its reform to maximise efficiency and impact for people on the ground.  It follows UK funding announced for another multilateral organisation Gavi, the vaccine alliance, last month, which will help save up to 8 million lives. 

    The World Bank support was originally announced last November, but all UK aid funding was subsequently reviewed following the 0.3% announcement in February this year. Every £1 the UK invests in the World Bank’s IDA fund, enables £4 of finance for developing countries. The IDA fund is expected to benefit 1.9 billion people in next three years.

    The World Bank President Ajay Banga today welcomed the UK’s funding commitment. He said:

    We are grateful to the United Kingdom for honouring its pledge to IDA. In a time of tight budgets and growing global risks, this is not just generosity – it’s strategy. Every taxpayer pound is multiplied many times over through the Bank’s ability to mobilise capital and partner with the private sector.

    These resources help create jobs in developing countries – jobs that build self-reliant economies, reduce the drivers of instability, crime, and migration, and grow the middle class. In turn, they create future consumers of UK products and investment opportunities that strengthen the UK economy over the long term.

    The UK’s new approach aligns with recent calls from Global South leaders for a move away from traditional aid to a focus on investment and partnerships, including from the African Development Bank, and the former Kenyan President. 

    Alongside the figures released today, the government has also published an Equality Impact Assessment which found plans to reduce the aid budget will “protect against disproportionate impacts on equalities” overall.

    The government will publish indicative multi-year allocations for 2026-2029 in the autumn, providing an even clearer picture of the UK’s future direction in international development. 

    Background:

    1. The full ODA spending allocations were published in the FCDO’s Annual Report and Accounts on GOV.UK on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. See here for further details: FCDO Annual Report and Accounts 2024 to 2025- GOV.UK
    2. The Equality Impact Assessment was published alongside the Annual Report and Accounts: FCDO Official Development Assistance programme allocations 2025 to 2026: equality impact assessment – GOV.UK
    3. The UK announced last November it would pledge £1.98 billion to the World Bank’s IDA21 – from July 2025 to June 2028. All UK aid funding was subsequently reviewed following the decision to reduce the aid budget in February. We have now agreed to accelerate our payments to the Bank, reducing their need to borrow from markets. This means that while the UK will provide the Bank with around 10% less cash in total, the Bank will regard our contribution as equivalent to our original pledge. A number of other donors accelerate their payments to provide early support to the Bank and to increase the value of their funding in the same way. 
    4. The Foreign Secretary announced new humanitarian support for Gaza on Monday, July 21, 20225. See here for further details: UK pledges lifesaving aid for Gaza – GOV.UK

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Carrier Strike Group contributes to Exercise Talisman Sabre

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    UK Carrier Strike Group contributes to Exercise Talisman Sabre

    The UK Carrier Strike Group has led a major British contribution to the large multinational exercise in Australia.

    Crown copyright

    More than 3,000 British forces are taking part in the largest military exercise Australia has ever hosted, as the UK’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG25) demonstrates Britain’s unwavering commitment to Indo-Pacific security. 

    The Carrier Strike Group is in Australia as part of Operation Highmast, the major global deployment that demonstrates Britain’s strategic commitment to the Indo-Pacific. 

    From British Gurkhas to US Marines to Australian Defence Force amphibious specialists, Exercise Talisman Sabre 25 serves as one of the deployment’s key moments, bringing together multinational forces to strengthen and test how nations can work together to safeguard global trade routes and maintain regional stability. 

    Spanning across a vast area in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Queensland, and New South Wales, the Australian-US led biennial exercise is bigger than ever, involving over 35,000 military personnel from 19 nations – making Talisman Sabre the largest exercise of the CSG’s deployment and one of the largest military exercises in the world this year. For the first time, offshore activities will also be conducted in Papua New Guinea.    

    Defence Secretary John Healey said:  

    The historic bonds between Britain and Australia run deep, and through AUKUS and exercises like Talisman Sabre we are strengthening these ties for the challenges of tomorrow.  

    Our commitment to the Indo-Pacific is unwavering, as this huge military exercise demonstrates. The unprecedented scale showcases the growing importance of cooperation in addressing shared challenges. We will continue to work alongside our closest allies to maintain the security and stability that underpins global prosperity. 

    Commodore James Blackmore said:  

    This is a real demonstration of the UK and our partners’ warfighting capabilities.   

    As the first UK-led multinational Carrier Strike Group to Talisman Sabre this is a powerful demonstration of our commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.  

    Exercise Talisman Sabre is also an opportunity for the UK to develop new levels of integration between systems and capabilities with the US, Australia, and other partners, enhancing our interoperability even further and to unprecedented levels.

     All three branches of the UK Armed Forces are engaged, with the Royal Marines playing a central role throughout the exercise alongside a Ranger Battalion from the Army and RAF Voyager aircraft. 

    The exercise strengthens operational cooperation with international partners, ensuring our collective ability to maintain the rules-based international order that underpins global trade and security.  

    The Royal Navy, alongside its AUKUS partners, is testing cutting-edge sub-sea and seabed warfare capabilities, showcasing interoperability across our navies. Additionally, for the first time, AUKUS nations will demonstrate the ability to remotely control Extra Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XL-UUVs) from a remote operating centre. 

    Through DSTL via the Resilience Autonomy and AI Technology collaboration, nations tested autonomy-enabled systems able to find and strike an advancing adversary. This experimentation provided a realistic combat environment for AUKUS to operate as an AI-enabled, integrated force, exploiting cutting-edge technology to ensure strategic advantage against a range of simulated adversaries. 
     
    The CSG25 deployment reinforces the government’s Plan for Change by strengthening international partnerships that underpin economic growth and national security, keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad. Operation Highmast occurs against the backdrop of the government’s landmark commitment to increasing defence spending to 2.6% of GDP. 

    This historic investment underpins the government’s mission-led approach to securing Britain’s future, providing the economic stability necessary for growth whilst ensuring the UK maintains cutting-edge capabilities such as the Carrier Strike Group to meet emerging global threats.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Forensic Science Regulator appointed for England and Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    New Forensic Science Regulator appointed for England and Wales

    The regulator ensures that the highest standards in forensic science are met across the criminal justice system.

    Dr Marc Bailey has been appointed as the Forensic Science Regulator for England and Wales.

    Dr Bailey is a scientist who has significant regulatory experience. He has held multiple roles within the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and led international research in quality systems and standardisation, including whilst working at the National Physical Laboratory.

    The Forensic Science Regulator is responsible for ensuring that the provision of forensic science services across England and Wales meet the highest standards of quality and integrity. This includes assessing compliance, providing advice to ministers, setting quality standards and ensuring that all forensic science providers adhere to these standards.

    Dr Bailey will work closely with the police, forensic science providers and the legal profession to ensure that forensic science in England and Wales remains at the forefront of innovation and reliability.

    Dr Bailey will officially assume his duties after Gary Pugh’s term concludes on 25 July 2025.

    Crime and Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said:

    Dr Bailey is going to bring a wealth of experience and expertise as the new Forensic Science Regulator.

    This pivotal role is essential in ensuring the highest standards of forensic science are upheld.

    By setting rigorous standards and providing robust oversight, the Forensic Science Regulator will continue to ensure that forensic science supports the work of the police, allowing them to investigate crimes and bring justice for victims.

    I’d like to thank Gary Pugh for his previous work in this role.

    Dr Bailey said:

    I am delighted to be appointed to the post of Forensic Science Regulator.

    I look forward to enacting and developing the regulation of Forensic Science and working with the team that support my role to ensure that the criminal justice system has full confidence in forensic science evidence.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India’s global outreach continues: PM Modi to visit UK, Maldives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-nation tour on Wednesday, visiting the United Kingdom and the Maldives from July 23 to 26, aiming to strengthen India’s global diplomatic engagements.

    At the invitation of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Prime Minister Modi will undertake an official visit to the United Kingdom from July 23 to 24. This will be his fourth visit to the UK, reflecting the growing warmth and depth of the bilateral relationship.

    India and the United Kingdom share historical ties that have evolved into a robust and mutually beneficial partnership. A major milestone in the relationship was achieved during the India-UK virtual summit on 4 May 2021, when Prime Minister Modi and then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson established a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and adopted an ambitious India-UK Roadmap 2030. This roadmap continues to steer cooperation across various sectors including trade, security, education, technology, and climate change.

    The visit also comes in the wake of the recent general elections in the UK held on 4 July 2024, where the Labour Party returned to power after 14 years, winning 412 out of 650 seats. Keir Starmer assumed office as Prime Minister, and PM Modi extended his congratulations during a telephonic conversation on 6 July, also inviting him for an early visit to India.

    In its election manifesto, the Labour Party pledged to pursue a new strategic partnership with India, focusing on the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and deepening cooperation in critical sectors. The two leaders had earlier met on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil in November 2024 and briefly interacted again during the G7 Summit in Canada in June 2025.

    Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025, Prime Minister Starmer had spoken to PM Modi to convey his condolences and support. On 6 May 2025, both leaders held a telephonic conversation and announced the successful conclusion of the India-UK FTA and the Double Taxation Avoidance Convention, marking a historic development in bilateral ties.

    High-level exchanges have been a consistent feature of India-UK relations. President Droupadi Murmu visited London in September 2022 to attend the State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and met King Charles III during her visit. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar represented India at the Coronation of King Charles III in May 2023 and engaged with global leaders during his visit. He also addressed members of the Indian community and interacted with Indian-origin UK MPs and students.

    Prime Minister Modi had earlier met former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on multiple occasions, including during the G20 Summit in India in September 2023 and at the G7 Summit in Italy in June 2024. Their discussions covered progress on the India-UK FTA and other key areas under the Roadmap 2030. Sunak’s official visit to India in 2023 and bilateral engagements in Japan and Bali further contributed to the growing momentum in the relationship. Notably, the Young Professionals Scheme was launched following their meeting in Bali in 2022, enhancing mobility for youth between the two countries.

    In April 2022, then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited India and held wide-ranging discussions with PM Modi. The visit saw the announcement of an ‘Open General Export Licence’ for Indian companies and the signing of MoUs in nuclear energy and global innovation, along with a joint statement on cyber cooperation.

    Earlier, in November 2021, Prime Minister Modi had visited the UK to attend the COP26 World Leaders’ Summit in Glasgow, where he and Prime Minister Boris Johnson jointly launched the One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative under the International Solar Alliance and the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS) initiative under the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla visited the UK in January 2025 and held bilateral talks with the Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, underscoring the strong parliamentary ties between the two democracies.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategic Escort Group officers complete fire safety refresher

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Strategic Escort Group officers complete fire safety refresher

    Strategic Escort Group completed fire safety refresher training, reinforcing vital emergency skills for secure nuclear transport in high-risk environments.

    Officers from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary’s (CNC) Strategic Escort Group (SEG) have successfully completed a rigorous fire safety refresher course as part of their ongoing professional standards and safety preparedness programme.

    SEG is a specialist unit responsible for the armed escort and secure transport of nuclear assets by road, rail, and sea. Operating in complex environments, SEG officers are trained to the highest standards in tactical firearms, maritime operations, and emergency response.

    As part of their ongoing certification, SEG officers undertook refresher training in accordance with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) framework – a globally recognised benchmark for maritime safety and emergency response.

    The training covered proficiency in fire prevention and firefighting, and updated proficiency in personal survival techniques.

    While these courses are refresher versions of their initial qualifications, they are designed to rigorously assess and reinforce critical safety skills in high-pressure scenarios.

    The final assessment featured a real-fire simulation, in which officers tackled an intense blaze aboard a mock vessel while wearing full breathing apparatus. Though the ship environment was a controlled training setup, the fire, heat, and physical demands were entirely real, replicating the kind of challenges SEG officers may face during maritime deployments.

    This training underscores the SEG’s commitment to operational readiness and ensures that officers remain equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in life-threatening environments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Swedish Man Who Licensed Rights to Late Colombian Drug Lord Pablo Escobar Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Money Laundering Charges

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES – A Swedish national who licensed the rights of the late Colombian narco-terrorist Pablo Escobar pleaded guilty today to six federal criminal charges for defrauding investors by marketing and selling products – including flamethrowers and cellphones – that he never delivered.

    Olof Kyros Gustafsson, 32, a.k.a. “El Silencio,” pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, one count of concealment money laundering, and one count of international concealment money laundering.

    Gustafsson has been in federal custody since March 28, when he was extradited to the United States from Spain, where he was arrested in December 2023. 

    According to his plea agreement, Gustafsson was the CEO of Escobar Inc., a corporation registered in Puerto Rico that held successor-in-interest rights to the persona and legacy of Pablo Escobar, the deceased Colombian narco-terrorist and late head of the Medellín Cartel. Escobar Inc. used Pablo Escobar’s likeness and persona to market and sell purported consumer products to the public.

    From July 2019 to November 2023, Gustafsson identified existing products in the marketplace that were being manufactured and sold to the public. He then used the Escobar persona to market and advertise similar and competing products purportedly being sold by Escobar Inc., advertising them at a price substantially lower than existing counterparts being sold by other companies.

    Gustafsson then purportedly sold the products – including an Escobar Flamethrower, an Escobar Fold Phone, an Escobar Gold 11 Pro Phone, and Escobar Cash (marketed as a “physical cryptocurrency”) – to customers, receiving payments via PayPal, Stripe, Coinbase, among other payment processors, as well as bank and wire transfers.

    Despite receiving customer payments, Gustafsson did not deliver the Escobar Inc. products to paying customers because the products did not exist.

    In furtherance of the scheme, Gustafsson sent crudely made samples of the purported Escobar Inc. products to online technology reviewers and social media influencers to attempt to increase the public’s demand for them. For example, Gustafsson sent Samsung Galaxy Fold Phones wrapped in gold foil and disguised as Escobar Inc. phones to online technology reviewers to attempt to induce victims who watched the online reviews into buying the products that never would be delivered.

    Also, rather than sending paying customers the actual products, Gustafsson mailed them a “Certificate of Ownership,” a book, or other Escobar Inc. promotional materials so there was a record of mailing from the company to the customer. When a paying customer attempted to obtain a refund when the product was never delivered, Gustafsson fraudulently referred the payment processor to the proof of mailing for the Certificate of Ownership or other material as proof that the product itself was shipped and that the customer had received it so the refund requests would be denied.

    Gustafsson also caused bank accounts to be opened under his name and entities he controlled to be used as funnel accounts – bank accounts into which he deposited and withdrew proceeds derived from his criminal activities. The purpose was to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. The bank accounts were located in the United States, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates.

    United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled a December 5 sentencing hearing, at which time Gustafsson will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each fraud-related count and up to 10 years in federal prison for each money laundering-related count. 

    As part of his plea agreement, Gustafsson agreed to pay up to $1.3 million in restitution to victims, as well as to forfeiture to funds that were proceeds of the fraud schemes, including money currently held in a bank account in Sweden.

    IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General are investigating this matter, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the United States Marshals Service, Eurojust, Spanish authorities, and French judicial authorities.

    Assistant United States Attorney Joshua O. Mausner of the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Swedish Man Who Licensed Rights to Late Colombian Drug Lord Pablo Escobar Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Money Laundering Charges

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES – A Swedish national who licensed the rights of the late Colombian narco-terrorist Pablo Escobar pleaded guilty today to six federal criminal charges for defrauding investors by marketing and selling products – including flamethrowers and cellphones – that he never delivered.

    Olof Kyros Gustafsson, 32, a.k.a. “El Silencio,” pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, one count of concealment money laundering, and one count of international concealment money laundering.

    Gustafsson has been in federal custody since March 28, when he was extradited to the United States from Spain, where he was arrested in December 2023. 

    According to his plea agreement, Gustafsson was the CEO of Escobar Inc., a corporation registered in Puerto Rico that held successor-in-interest rights to the persona and legacy of Pablo Escobar, the deceased Colombian narco-terrorist and late head of the Medellín Cartel. Escobar Inc. used Pablo Escobar’s likeness and persona to market and sell purported consumer products to the public.

    From July 2019 to November 2023, Gustafsson identified existing products in the marketplace that were being manufactured and sold to the public. He then used the Escobar persona to market and advertise similar and competing products purportedly being sold by Escobar Inc., advertising them at a price substantially lower than existing counterparts being sold by other companies.

    Gustafsson then purportedly sold the products – including an Escobar Flamethrower, an Escobar Fold Phone, an Escobar Gold 11 Pro Phone, and Escobar Cash (marketed as a “physical cryptocurrency”) – to customers, receiving payments via PayPal, Stripe, Coinbase, among other payment processors, as well as bank and wire transfers.

    Despite receiving customer payments, Gustafsson did not deliver the Escobar Inc. products to paying customers because the products did not exist.

    In furtherance of the scheme, Gustafsson sent crudely made samples of the purported Escobar Inc. products to online technology reviewers and social media influencers to attempt to increase the public’s demand for them. For example, Gustafsson sent Samsung Galaxy Fold Phones wrapped in gold foil and disguised as Escobar Inc. phones to online technology reviewers to attempt to induce victims who watched the online reviews into buying the products that never would be delivered.

    Also, rather than sending paying customers the actual products, Gustafsson mailed them a “Certificate of Ownership,” a book, or other Escobar Inc. promotional materials so there was a record of mailing from the company to the customer. When a paying customer attempted to obtain a refund when the product was never delivered, Gustafsson fraudulently referred the payment processor to the proof of mailing for the Certificate of Ownership or other material as proof that the product itself was shipped and that the customer had received it so the refund requests would be denied.

    Gustafsson also caused bank accounts to be opened under his name and entities he controlled to be used as funnel accounts – bank accounts into which he deposited and withdrew proceeds derived from his criminal activities. The purpose was to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. The bank accounts were located in the United States, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates.

    United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled a December 5 sentencing hearing, at which time Gustafsson will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each fraud-related count and up to 10 years in federal prison for each money laundering-related count. 

    As part of his plea agreement, Gustafsson agreed to pay up to $1.3 million in restitution to victims, as well as to forfeiture to funds that were proceeds of the fraud schemes, including money currently held in a bank account in Sweden.

    IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General are investigating this matter, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the United States Marshals Service, Eurojust, Spanish authorities, and French judicial authorities.

    Assistant United States Attorney Joshua O. Mausner of the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Intermedio Information Technology Partners with BOC Group to Resell Adonis BPM Solution and Support Global Sustainability Initiatives

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Amsterdam, Netherlands, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intermedio Information Technology, a specialist in integrating business strategy, security, and advanced process automation, has announced a strategic partnership with BOC Group. This collaboration will enable Intermedio to resell BOC Group’s Adonis Business Process Management (BPM) solution, further enhancing their service offerings to support startup and sustainability projects in the Netherlands and across the globe.

    Mutual partnership announcment by BOC Group.

    Intermedio’s commitment to innovation and sustainability aligns seamlessly with BOC Group’s Adonis BPM solution, known for its robust capabilities in process management and optimization. This partnership is set to empower businesses to achieve greater efficiency and environmental stewardship, reflecting Intermedio’s mission to integrate Green BPM and eco-friendly practices into business operations.

    “This partnership with BOC Group marks a significant milestone for Intermedio as we continue to expand our global footprint,” said A. van Geest, director of Intermedio Information Technology. “By offering the Adonis BPM solution, we are not only enhancing our service portfolio but also reinforcing our commitment to sustainable business practices and supporting startups and scale-ups worldwide.”

    Operating as a 100% remote working consultancy, Intermedio is uniquely positioned to deliver its services without geographical constraints, ensuring that businesses around the world can benefit from their expertise in business strategy, intelligent process automation, and interim management. This remote model not only supports Intermedio’s sustainability goals by reducing carbon footprints but also allows for greater flexibility and collaboration with clients globally.

    Intermedio’s comprehensive services, including consultancy in business strategy, interim management, and the development of Centers of Expertise for BPM, are further strengthened by this partnership. The addition of the Adonis BPM solution to their offerings will provide clients with advanced tools to streamline processes and achieve their growth objectives sustainably.

    For more information about Intermedio Information Technology and their services, please visit www.adonis-bpm.com.

    About Intermedio Information Technology

    Intermedio Information Technology (Intermedio) empowers businesses to scale securely and sustainably through the integration of business strategy, security, and advanced process automation. Our mission is to align innovative process management solutions with our clients’ growth objectives while implementing Green BPM and eco-friendly practices that reduce carbon footprints. Driven by core values of innovation, security, sustainability, and collaboration, Intermedio redefines business operations to foster efficiency and environmental stewardship. Our comprehensive services include consultancy in business strategy, intelligent process automation, interim management (CIO, IT management, Green Project Management), and the development of Centers of Expertise for BPM. In addition, we offer training courses in business strategy, business modeling, process management, and decision management. For more information, please visit https://intermedio.eu. 

    Press inquiries

    Intermedio Information Technology
    https://intermedio.eu
    A. van Geest
    a.vangeest@intermedio.eu
    +31852006499
    Keurenplein 41 / unit A0214
    1069 CD Amsterdam
    The Netherlands

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reaction to Sizewell C deal: too expensive, too slow 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    by Green Party

    Commenting on news that the Government has struck a deal with private investors to progress the Sizewell C nuclear power plant in Suffolk – a deal in which the government will have a 45% stake – co-leader of the Green Party and Waveney Valley MP, Adrian Ramsay, said:   

    “The tax-payer will pick up nearly half of the estimated £38bn bill for Sizewell C but see not a single watt of electricity from it for at least a decade. Bill-payers will also have to stump up the cash for this plant through an increase in their energy bills by around £12 a year.  

    “New nuclear is a vastly more expensive way to produce electricity than renewables, with electricity from Sizewell C estimated to cost around £170 per megawatt hour compared to offshore wind at around £89/MWh. Hinkley C has also shown how the costs of developing nuclear power plants mushroom and are beset by endless delays.  

    “The billions of our money being squandered on this nuclear gamble would be far better spent on insulating and retrofitting millions of homes, which would bringing down energy bills and keep people warm in winter and cool in summer. We should also be investing in genuinely green power such as fitting millions of solar panels to roofs, and in innovative technologies like tidal power. All this would create many more jobs than nuclear ever will and deliver clean electricity much more quickly.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government publishes plan to address presence of chemicals from pet flea and tick treatments in UK waterways

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government publishes plan to address presence of chemicals from pet flea and tick treatments in UK waterways

    New plans to address the presence of chemicals from flea and tick treatments in rivers and streams across the UK have been unveiled today

    New plans to address the presence of chemicals from flea and tick treatments in rivers and streams across the UK have been unveiled today (Tuesday 22 July).

    The initiative by the Cross-Government Pharmaceuticals in the Environment (PiE) Group focuses primarily on two chemicals – fipronil and imidacloprid – commonly used in topical parasite treatments for pets. These medicines play an essential role in protecting both animal and human health against fleas and ticks, however there are growing concerns around the amount of fipronil and imidacloprid finding its way into UK rivers and lakes .  

    The new roadmap outlines key actions to reduce levels of flea and tick treatments in the environment while protecting animal welfare – which includes commissioning research to better understand this issue and using this evidence to support an international review of environmental risk assessment guidelines . The three key stages of the roadmap are:

    • Communication and Education (Short Term):
      The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) will collaborate with veterinary professionals and industry stakeholders to improve pet owner awareness about the appropriate use and disposal of flea and tick treatments.

    • Evidence Gathering (Medium Term):
      The group will build a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impacts of these chemicals, alongside evaluating potential consequences of changing use patterns on animal and human health. The VMD has commissioned scientific research investigating how these substances enter rivers and streams and is working closely with the Environment Agency to assess the environmental risks they pose.

    • Regulatory Actions (Long Term):
      Based on the evidence collected, the PiE Group will support a review of international environmental risk assessment guidelines and consider future regulatory approaches to mitigate environmental risks.

    Defra Biosecurity Minister, Baroness Hayman said:

    This Government is absolutely committed to restoring nature and reducing harms posed by chemicals in the environment.

    Our new Roadmap will develop a better understanding of the impact of flea and tick treatments on the environment, while recognising these treatments play a vital role in pet and human health.

    Abigail Seager, Chief Executive Officer of the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), said:

    This roadmap represents an important step forward in ensuring that the benefits of effective parasite control are maintained while taking necessary actions to reduce environmental risks.

    It reflects our commitment to an evidence-based approach, working closely with partners across government to protect both animal health and the environment.

    Kelly Short, Environment Agency Chemicals Manager said:

    The launch of this roadmap is an important step in tackling the presence of harmful chemicals like fipronil and imidacloprid in our rivers and streams.

    By improving public awareness, building the evidence base, and working together to assess environmental risks, we can take meaningful action to protect our water environment and the wildlife that depends on it.

     The PiE Group brings together key government bodies, including the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), Environment Agency (EA), Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), and representatives from devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

    This collaborative initiative aims to develop a coordinated strategy to reduce the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals from human, veterinary, agricultural, and non-agricultural sources.

    ENDS

    Notes to Editors:

    • The full roadmap is available at: Cross-government Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Group Roadmap – GOV.UK

    • All flea and tick treatments authorised in the UK have undergone an environmental risk assessment (ERA). This is a requirement for all veterinary pharmaceuticals authorised by the VMD. Currently, for pharmaceuticals for companion animals, the ERA is limited to an exposure assessment, known as a Phase I assessment. This is based on VICH (International Cooperation on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Veterinary Medicinal Products) guidelines. Due to environmental concerns, the VMD are supporting a call for a review of the process for assessing environmental risk from parasiticides for companion animals at an international level and are gathering evidence to inform future policy decisions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Men charged in connection to Grindr targeted burglaries across London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met Police detectives investigating a series of burglaries across London where victims were allegedly targeted on the social dating app Grindr have charged four men.

    The group is alleged to have carried out 35 burglaries and 20 related frauds between October 2024 and March this year relating to 22 victims.

    Rahmat Khan Mohammadi, 22 (28.10.02), of Weald Lane in Harrow, was arrested on Thursday, 3 April and charged on Saturday, 5 April with one count of theft, 17 counts of burglary and 12 fraud offences.

    He appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 5 April where he was remanded in custody to appear at Isleworth Crown Court on Friday, 25 July.

    Mohammed Bilal Hotak, 21 (01.01.04), of Richmond Road in Hackney, was arrested on Thursday, 24 April and charged the following day on Friday, 25 April.

    He appeared alongside Mohammadi at Isleworth Crown Court on Friday, 23 May charged with one count of theft, 14 burglaries and nine fraud offences.

    He was also remanded in custody to appear at Isleworth Crown Court on Friday, 25 July.

    Mozamel Rahman, 29 (01.03.97), of Sefton Avenue, Harrow, was arrested on Monday, 7 April and charged with three counts of burglary and two fraud offences on Thursday, 26 June.

    He appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 11 July where he was bailed to attend the same court on Friday, 8 August.

    Ibrahim Yaqobie, 28 (15.02.98), of Masons Avenue in Harrow, was arrested on Wednesday, 9 April and charged on Wednesday, 9 July with the same offences as Rahman.

    He has been bailed to appear at Willesden Magistrates Court on Friday, 8 August.

    A trial date for both Mohammadi and Hotak has been set for Monday, 13 October at Isleworth Crown Court.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Financing Agreements to Strengthen Education in Mauritania and Chad

    Source: APO


    .

    The Governments of Mauritania and Chad today signed funding agreements for the Regional Engagement for Learning and Collaboration in Education (RELANCE) Project, supported by the World Bank and the Federal Republic of Germany, for a total of $137 million.

    This ambitious project aims to transform education systems in both countries by strengthening sector governance and expanding access to flexible and inclusive learning pathways. It targets more than 850,000 young people, half of whom are girls, while promoting access to learners with special needs.

    In a regional context of sustained demographic growth, disparities in access to education, and increasing demand for job-relevant skills, RELANCE offers a collaborative and integrated approach. It builds on ongoing efforts to strengthen education systems while introducing regional mechanisms for coordination, resource sharing, and innovation.

    The project includes the establishment of a Regional Institute of Education in Nouakchott to strengthen executive capacity in the education sector, drive applied research, and inform policy through data and evidence. Supported by the Association of African Universities, the institute is positioned to become a center of academic excellence for both countries, fostering structured, long-term collaboration and knowledge exchange.

    “The signing of the financing agreements for the RELANCE Sahel project reflects our collective commitment to building a resilient, educated, and forward-looking Sahel,” said Sid’Ahmed Bouh, Minister of Economy and Finance.

    The initiative includes the creation of a regional Open School in each country, designed to meet the needs of young people outside the traditional education circuits, especially in areas where access to education remains limited. This hybrid system will combine digital learning, face-to-face support and professional training.

    “The Regional Open School is a concrete response to the educational realities of our country. It will allow thousands of young people, often far from traditional structures, to have access to adapted learning paths that bring skills and hope,” said Dr. Aboubakar Assidick Tchoroma, Minister of National Education and Civic Promotion of Chad.

    The project also benefits from significant financial support from the Federal Republic of Germany, through KfW, under the Sahel and West Africa Coast Multi-Donor Trust Fund. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to enhanced regional cooperation.

    “RELANCE reflects an ambitious and pragmatic regional approach. By supporting this initiative, Germany reaffirms its willingness to support Sahel countries in their efforts to build more inclusive education systems that are better grounded in local realities,” said H.E. Dr. Florian Reindel, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Mauritania.

    The World Bank is supporting participating countries through a strategic partnership that combines technical support with long-term financing. RELANCE builds on the achievements of existing national projects, such as the Basic Education Sector Support Project (PASEB II) in Mauritania and the Project to Improve Learning Outcomes in Basic Education (PARAEB) in Chad, while introducing a unique regional dimension.

    “Shaping minds is about charting the path to a brighter future. Like a carefully planted seed, an ambitious education policy carries the promise of progress. The RELANCE project thus reflects our shared commitment to making education a transformative force in Mauritania and Chad, by training informed, empowered generations ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow,” said Ousmane Diagana, World Bank Vice President for Western and Central Africa.

    Designed as an open regional platform, the project will be open to other Sahel countries interested in joining. It marks an important step towards building a more integrated Sahelian educational space capable of meeting the aspirations of a dynamic and committed youth.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Côte d’Ivoire: The African Development Bank’s Capital Markets Development Trust Fund (CMDTF) supports establishment of digital platform for public offerings

    Source: APO

    The Central Depository/Settlement Bank (DC/BR) has officially launched its new digital platform for public offerings (DIGIAPE), with support from the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org).

    DIGIAPE will automate primary market subscriptions in the West African Monetary Union’s (UMOA) regional financial market, enhancing both the transparency and reliability of securities allocations while boosting competitiveness through real-time allocation of securities at the close of trading.

    The African Development Bank is providing $400,000 through the Capital Markets Development Trust Fund for technical support to support the design, installation and operationalization of the DIGIAPE platform, to build staff capacity in managing the platform, and enhance the ability of regional financial market stakeholders to use the platform.

    Ibrahim Kalil Konaté, Ivorian Minister for Digital Transition and Digitization, was present at the launch event, which was also attended by representatives of the African Development Bank, the Central Depository/Settlement Bank, the UMOA Financial Markets Authority and financial market players.

    “The African Development Bank is a key strategic partner in the development of the regional financial market – as evidenced by our having committed more than two billion euros to the financial sector in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) zone, through our various instruments, since 2014,” said Ahmed Attout, Director for Financial Sector Development at the African Development Bank.

    “Our intervention is a continuation of the Bank’s support for players in the West African Monetary Union regional financial market, which began in 2018,” said Akane Zoukpo Sanankoua, Manager of the Capital Markets Development Division at the African Development Bank. “Support for the establishment of the DIGIAPE platform once again demonstrates the ability of the Capital Markets Development Trust Fund to respond concretely and strategically to the needs of Africa’s changing markets,” she added.

    DIGIAPE is expected to reduce settlement times and enable real-time allocation of securities at close, creating a more attractive environment for international investors and greater flexibility for sovereign issuers.

    “Technological innovation is now a powerful lever for transforming capital markets. In a constantly changing environment, the central depository/settlement bank, like other central securities depositories, must embrace this dynamic in order to meet the growing demand for security, efficiency, transparency and inclusion,” said Birahim Diouf, Director General of the UMOA Central Depository/Settlement Bank.

    “DIGIAPE is a digital platform designed to automate and secure the entire subscription process for public offerings on the primary market. It is a concrete response to current challenges, particularly in terms of financial inclusion, the digitization of financial services and the transparency of the regional financial market,” emphasized Diouf.

    The Capital Markets Development Trust Fund was created in 2019 to contribute to the integration and competitiveness of African capital markets by supporting strategic reforms, strengthening market infrastructure, broadening investor bases and developing innovative instruments. It is supported by the Luxembourg Ministry of Finance, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.

    The Central Depositary/Settlement Bank is a specialized UMOA financial institution based in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. It centralizes the custody of securities for its members, manages settlement/delivery operations following stock market transactions, and makes payment for securities events.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Media contact:
    Romaric Ollo Hien
    Communication and External Relations Department
    African Development Bank
    media@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org  

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Southern African Development Community (SADC) Parliamentarians join forces to advance the Right to Food and agrifood systems transformation

    Source: APO

    Amid growing food insecurity and malnutrition across Southern Africa, parliamentarians are stepping up to drive legislative solutions. From 22 to 24 July 2025, parliamentarians from across the region – are gathering  in Johannesburg, South Africa, for a high-level meeting and training organized by the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The aim is to enhance legislative capacity, foster collaboration, and operationalize the newly formed SADC Parliamentary Alliance on Agrifood Systems, Food Security and Nutrition.

    This initiative comes at a pivotal time, as the region contends with overlapping shocks, from climate extremes to economic pressures, that continue to disrupt agrifood systems and widen inequality. It also builds momentum in the lead-up to the Third Global Parliamentary Summit against Hunger and Malnutrition, to be hosted in 2026 at the Pan-African Parliament headquarters in South Africa.

    The event also commemorates the 20th anniversary of the Right to Food Guidelines, reaffirming the importance of national legal frameworks in securing the fundamental right to adequate food for all. In a region where undernutrition and hunger remain persistent, the meeting offers an opportunity to align parliamentary action with regional and global frameworks such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), and SDG 2 – Zero Hunger.

    The Alliance is envisioned as a platform to foster cross-border cooperation, enabling parliamentarians to share good practices, advocate for sustainable food systems, and shape policy dialogue at national, regional, and global levels.

    FAO’s technical role in strengthening legal foundations

    As the lead technical agency, FAO is supporting this process by providing legal expertise, delivering targeted training, and promoting the domestication of the Pan-African Parliament Model Law on Food Security and Nutrition.

    As part of a global initiative funded by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity of Germany, FAO is equipping parliamentarians to legislate, monitor, and advance the right to food across diverse national contexts. Beyond the training, FAO’s support includes technical assistance to align national laws with the Model Law’s provisions—ensuring countries have the legal tools needed to address food insecurity through inclusive and rights-based approaches. This is part of FAO’s broader commitment to strengthening governance mechanisms and embedding food systems transformation within sustainable development priorities.

    Building on the establishment of the Alliance in December 2024, supported by FAO and the Spanish cooperation agency (AECID), the adoption of the Alliance’s first work plan and the establishment of its governance structures mark the beginning of a long-term process.

    Realizing the right to food requires sustained political will, robust legal frameworks, and active parliamentary engagement to protect biodiversity, support traditional food systems, and ensure that no one is left behind.

    As the countdown to the 2026 Global Parliamentary Summit begins, FAO remains committed to supporting SADC parliamentarians in translating commitments into concrete, lasting impact. The road to Zero Hunger will require solid laws, inclusive institutions, and continued partnerships rooted in the shared vision of a food-secure future for all.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Online finance portal launched to make it easier for people to assess paid-for care costs

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 22nd July 2025

    A 24/7 online financial assessment service has been launched for residents looking to access paid-for adult social care in Stoke-on-Trent.

    The Online Financial Assessment tool – which can be found at www.stoke.gov.uk/ascfinance – will help people estimate the contributions they need to make towards a variety of care needs – such as residential, nursing and home care.

    It will also help them work out their eligibility to have their paid-for support part or fully funded.

    The portal can be used by existing clients – or a family member, friend or other person representing them – to assess ongoing costs, as well as those looking to make an initial financial assessment.

    The seven-day-a-week service also allows people to submit relevant documents, such as bank statements, to help calculate their assessment and work out support eligibility. 

    It is the fourth portal launched by the council’s Adult Social Care team in the last few months – the Carers Portal, Bettercare Support Portal and Professional Portal are also available 24/7 to make accessing services, support and signposting better than ever before.

    The aim of all four is to help people lead the most independent lives they possibly can by tapping into the right amount of support, whatever their circumstances.

    Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for adult social care and all-age commissioning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This is an extremely useful online tool that will provide much-needed financial assessment support to those looking to access paid-for care.

    “We know that going into a residential care home or arranging care at home can be a stressful time in a person’s life, as well affecting their family and close friends, so we want to make this process as quick and easy as possible.

    “This also offers a convenient option for people who’s prefer to do it online and at a time of their choosing.”  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two more Plymouth schools to make Safer School Streets permanent

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Two more Plymouth schools will be making their ‘Safer School Streets’ schemes permanent after the summer holiday, following successful 18-month trials.

    The schemes see roads closed to school-run and through traffic during morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up times, improving safety for everyone, making it easier for families to walk, cycle or scoot to school and creating a healthier street environment with cleaner air.

    Stuart Road Primary Academy was the first to run an extended trial of the restrictions before making them permanent last year. It will now be joined by Compton CofE Primary and St Paul’s RC Primary, where the measures have made a significant change to the way families travel to school.

    At Compton, surveys and counts carried out by Sustrans and the Council’s road safety team showed the number of children being driven to school fell by 34 per cent after the scheme was put in place and there was a 60 per cent increase in children using the Pearn Road crossing. St Paul’s reported a “huge drop in parked vehicles in Barne Lane”.

    Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “It’s great to see another two schools making their Safer School Streets schemes permanent. This shows how effective the measures can be in tackling inconsiderate and dangerous parking and making school journeys safer. They also help to reduce congestion and improve air quality around the school gates, as well as encourage active travel.

    “We work hard to encourage families to leave the car at home where possible and promote active travel (including schemes such as walk and stride and walking buses). Making sure local roads and footways are safe and accessible is a huge part of this.

    Every weekday during term time, roads outside each school are closed with temporary barriers during their morning and afternoon school run times.

    • St Paul’s (Barne Lane): 8.15am to 9am and 2.30pm to 3.30pm
    • Compton (Pearn Road and Pearn Gardens): 8.15am to 9.15am and 2.45pm to 3.45pm

    There will be no changes to these timings.

    Families are encouraged to walk, cycle or scoot to school or, if they need to drive to work, to ‘park and stride’ – where they park a five or 10 minute walk from the school and go the rest of the way by foot.

    Access is maintained for local residents and businesses, parents and children with disabilities, the emergency services, deliveries and other service vehicles.

    The measures have been trialled for 18 months under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order. The permanent Traffic Regulation Order has been advertised in the local press and on street and the school community and local residents are being made aware.

    The decision to make the scheme permanent was signed on 25 June and can be viewed on our decisions page.

    For more information visit our Safer School Streets page or the School Streets website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –