Category: European Union

MIL-OSI Global: Universities in Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union thought giving in to government demands would save their independence

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Iveta Silova, Professor of Comparative and International Education, Arizona State University

Columbia University has been in the crosshairs of the Trump administration.
Rudi Von Briel/Photodisc via Getty Images

Many American universities, widely seen globally as beacons of academic integrity and free speech, are giving in to demands from the Trump administration, which has been targeting academia since it took office.

In one of his first acts, President Donald Trump branded diversity, equity and inclusion programs as discriminatory. His administration also launched federal investigations into more than 50 universities, from smaller regional schools such as Grand Valley State University in Michigan and the New England College of Optometry in Massachusetts to elite private universities such as Harvard and Yale.

Trump ramped up the pressure by threatening university research funding and targeting specific schools. In one example, the Trump administration revoked US$400 million in grants to Columbia University over its alleged failures to curb antisemitic harassment on campus. The school later agreed to most of Trump’s demands, from tightening student protest policies to placing an entire academic department under administrative oversight – though the funding remains frozen.

Cornell, Northwestern, Princeton, Brown and the University of Pennsylvania have also recently had grants frozen. Harvard was sent a list of demands in order to keep $9 billion in federal funding.

Now, across the United States, many universities are trying to avoid being Trump’s next target. Administrators are dismantling DEI initiatives – closing and rebranding offices, eliminating positions, revising training programs and sanitizing diversity statements – while professors are preemptively self-censoring.

Not all institutions are complying. Some schools, such as Wesleyan, have refused to abandon their diversity principles. And organizations including the American Association of University Professors have filed lawsuits challenging Trump’s executive orders, arguing they violate academic freedom and the First Amendment.

But these remain exceptions, as the broader trend leans toward institutional caution and retreat.

As a scholar of comparative and international education, I study how academic institutions respond to authoritarian pressure – across political systems, cultural contexts and historical moments. While some universities may believe that compliance with the administration will protect their funding and independence, a few historical parallels suggest otherwise.

Students and other Nazi supporters gather at Humboldt University in Berlin in 1933.
AP Photo

German universities: A lesson

In the 1975 book “The Abuse of Learning: The Failure of German Universities,” historian Frederic Lilge chronicles how German universities, which entered the 20th century in a golden age of global intellectual influence, did not resist the Nazi regime but instead adapted to it.

Even before seizing national power in 1933, the Nazi Party was closely monitoring German universities through nationalist student groups and sympathetic faculty, flagging professors deemed politically unreliable – particularly Jews, Marxists, liberals and pacifists.

After Hitler took office in 1933, his regime moved swiftly to purge academic institutions of Jews and political opponents. The 1933 Law for the Restoration of the Professional Civil Service mandated the firing of Jewish and other “non-Aryan” professors and members of the faculty deemed politically suspect.

Soon after, professors were required to swear loyalty to Hitler, curricula were overhauled to emphasize “national defense” and “racial science” – a pseudoscientific framework used to justify antisemitism and Aryan supremacy – and entire departments were restructured to serve Nazi ideology.

Some institutions, such as the Technische Hochschule Stuttgart, even rushed to honor Hitler with an honorary doctorate within weeks of his rise to power. He declined the offer, though the gesture signaled the university’s eagerness to align with the regime. Professional associations, such as the Association of German Universities, stayed silent, ignoring key opportunities to resist before universities lost their autonomy and became subservient to the Nazi state.

As linguist Max Weinreich wrote in his 1999 book “Hitler’s Professors,” many academics didn’t just comply, they enabled the regime by reshaping their research. This legitimized state doctrine, helping build the intellectual framework of the regime.

A few academics resisted and were dismissed, exiled or executed. Most did not.

The transformation of German academia was not a slow drift but a swift and systemic overhaul. But what made Hitler’s orders stick was the eagerness of many academic leaders to comply, justify and normalize the new order. Each decision – each erased name, each revised syllabus, each closed program and department – was framed as necessary, even patriotic. Within a few years, German universities no longer served knowledge – they served power.

It would take more than a decade after the war, through denazification, reinvestment and international reintegration, for West German universities to begin regaining their intellectual standing and academic credibility.

Under Stalin, dissenting scholars were purged and history rewritten to glorify the Communist Party. Moscow State University opened in 1953 with murals such as this one depicting Soviet symbols.
AP Photo/Zander Hollander

USSR and fascist Italy suffer similar fate

Other countries that have fallen under authoritarian regimes followed similar trajectories.

In fascist Italy, the shift began not with violence but with a signature. In 1931, the Mussolini regime required all university professors to swear an oath of loyalty to the state. Out of more than 1,200, only 12 refused.

Many justified their compliance by insisting the oath had no bearing on their teaching or research. But by publicly affirming loyalty and offering no organized resistance, the academic community signaled its willingness to accommodate the regime. This lack of opposition allowed the fascist government to tighten control over universities and use them to advance its ideological agenda.

In the Soviet Union, this control was not limited to symbolic gestures – it reshaped the entire academic system.

After the Russian Revolution in 1917, the Bolsheviks oscillated between wanting to abolish universities as “feudal relics” and repurposing them to serve a socialist state, as historians John Connelly and Michael Grüttner explain in their book “Universities Under Dictatorship.” Ultimately, they chose the latter, remaking universities as instruments of ideological education and technical training, tightly aligned with Marxist-Leninist goals.

Under Josef Stalin, academic survival depended less on scholarly merit than on conformity to official doctrine. Dissenting scholars were purged or exiled, history was rewritten to glorify the Communist Party, and entire disciplines such as genetics were reshaped to fit political orthodoxy.

This model was exported across Eastern and Central Europe during the Cold War. In East Germany, Czechoslovakia and Poland, ministries dictated curricula, Marxism-Leninism became mandatory across disciplines, and admissions were reengineered to favor students from loyalist backgrounds. In some contexts, adherents to older intellectual traditions pushed back, especially in Poland, where resistance slowed though could not prevent the imposition of ideological control.

By the early 1950s, universities across the region had become what Connelly calls “captive institutions,” stripped of independence and recast to serve the state.

A more recent example is Turkey, where, following the failed 2016 coup, more than 6,000 academics were dismissed, universities were shuttered and research deemed “subversive” was banned.

History’s warning

The Trump administration’s early and direct intervention into higher education governance echoes historical attempts to bring universities under state influence or control.

The administration says it is doing so to eradicate “discrimatory” DEI policies and fight what it sees as antisemitism on college campuses. But by withholding federal funding, the administration is also trying to force universities into ideological conformity – by dictating whose knowledge counts but also whose presence and perspectives are permissible on campus.

Columbia’s reaction to Trump’s demands sent a clear message: Resistance is risky, but compliance may be rewarded – though the $400 million has yet to be restored. The speed and scope of its concessions set a precedent, signaling to other universities that avoiding political fallout now may mean rewriting policies, reshaping departments and retreating from controversy, perhaps before anyone even asks.

The Trump administration has already moved on to other universities, including the University of Pennsylvania over its transgender policies, Princeton for its climate programs and Harvard over alleged antisemitism. The question is which school is next.

The Department of Education has launched investigations into over 50 institutions, accusing them of using “racial preferences and stereotypes in education programs and activities.” How these institutions choose to respond may determine whether higher education remains a space for open inquiry.

The pressure to conform is not just financial – it is also cultural. Faculty at some institutions are being advised not to use “DEI” in emails and public communication, with warnings to not be a target. Academics are removing pronouns from their email signatures and asking their students to comply, too. I’ve been on the receiving end of those warnings, and so have my counterparts at other institutions. And students on visas are being warned not to travel outside the U.S. after several were deported or denied reentry due to alleged involvement in protests.

Meanwhile, people inside and outside academia are combing websites, syllabi, presentations and public writing in search of what they consider ideological infractions. This type of peer surveillance can reward silence, incentivize erasure and turn institutions against their own.

When universities start regulating not just what they say but what they teach, support and stand for – driven by fear rather than principle – they are no longer just reacting to political threats, they are internalizing them. And as history has shown, that may mark the beginning of the end of their academic independence.

This article does not represent the views of Arizona State University.

– ref. Universities in Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union thought giving in to government demands would save their independence – https://theconversation.com/universities-in-nazi-germany-and-the-soviet-union-thought-giving-in-to-government-demands-would-save-their-independence-252888

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Activities of Secretary-General in Belgium, 18-21 March

Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

On Tuesday evening, 18 March, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Brussels to meet with European Union leaders.

On Wednesday, the Secretary-General had meetings with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, as well as with Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament. 

In the evening, he attended a dinner organized by Antonio Costa, the President of the European Council, along with Ms. Von der Leyen and Kaja Kallas, the European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.

On Thursday, 20 March, at the invitation of the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, the Secretary-General took part in a working lunch with the Heads of State and Government of the European Union at the opening of the European Council. 

The Secretary-General and Mr. Costa spoke to the press as they entered the European Union building. Mr. Guterres expressed his appreciation for the UN’s partnership with the European Union, reiterating that it is a fundamental pillar of the multilateral response to the challenges we face in peace and security, climate, sustainable development and human rights.

Turning to the situation in Ukraine, the Secretary-General said any ceasefire is welcome because it saves lives, but he added that it is essential that a ceasefire paves the way for a just peace in Ukraine — a peace that respects the Charter of the United Nations, international law and Security Council resolutions, namely about the territorial integrity of Ukraine.

The Secretary-General renewed his appeal for respect of the ceasefire in Gaza, for unimpeded humanitarian access to all areas of Gaza, and for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages.

Immediately after the working lunch, Mr. Guterres had a pull-aside meeting with the President of France, Emmanuel Macron.

Later that afternoon, the Secretary-General sat down for a background briefing with a group of journalists assembled by the United Nations Regional Information Centre for Western Europe.

On Friday morning, the universities KU Leuven and UC Louvain jointly awarded an honorary doctorate to the United Nations. The Secretary-General received the honorary doctorate on behalf of the organization and, in his remarks, he said that by bestowing this honour, the universities are sending a message of support for the mission of the United Nations — a message of solidarity to all those working to make it real — and a message of inspiration for us to keep up the fight. (See Press Release SG/SM/22596.)

He said the Universities’ 600^th anniversary coincides with a moment of reflection for the United Nations, which marks its own eightieth anniversary as an organization at the epicentre of multilateralism.

Standing here in Europe, the Secretary-General added, we know this same commitment to multilateralism is the beating heart of the European Union — a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to the world’s most vulnerable people and proof that isolationism is an illusion, never a solution.

Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Secretary-General renewed his appeal for the ceasefire to be restored, for unimpeded humanitarian assistance to be reestablished and for the remaining hostages to be released immediately and unconditionally.

Following the ceremony, the Secretary-General visited the university library and had an exchange with students.

Upon returning to Brussels that afternoon, the Secretary-General had a meeting with the Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever.

He left Brussels early in the evening.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee against Torture Commend Monaco’s Ratification of International Human Rights Treaties, Ask about Efforts to Revise Torture Laws and the Transfer of Prisoners to France

Source: United Nations – Geneva

The Committee against Torture today concluded its consideration of the seventh periodic report of Monaco under the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, with Committee Experts praising Monaco’s ratification of United Nations and European human rights treaties, while raising questions about efforts to bring legislation on torture in line with the Convention and the transfer of prisoners to France.

Abderrazak Rouwane, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, congratulated Monaco on having ratified a significant number of United Nations and Council of Europe human rights instruments. Why had the State party decided not to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture?

Mr. Rouwane asked about measures the State party had taken to harmonise national legislation on torture with the Convention. The Committee was concerned about the statute of limitations on torture crimes, the lack of specific provisions in the Criminal Code imposing an absolute prohibition of torture, and the lack of clear mechanisms protecting subordinates from being forced to carry out unlawful orders.

Erdogan Iscan, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, said some inmates in Monaco continued to be transferred to French prisons, and the State

party lacked oversight of places of deprivation of liberty in France. Would a formal legal procedure for recording prisoners’ consent to transfers be created? Which State was responsible for ensuring legal safeguards for these prisoners?

Introducing the report, Samuel Vuelta Simon, Secretary of State for Justice of Monaco, Director of Judicial Services and head of the delegation, said Monaco ensured that its legal framework was fully in line with its international commitments and that its texts were regularly adapted to better meet the requirements of the fight against torture and inhuman treatment.

Mr. Vuelta Simon said the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure allowed for severe punishment for any act resembling torture or inhuman treatment. Also, a legislative proposal currently being prepared would ensure that the crime of torture was imprescriptible and would also ensure the unenforceability of any hierarchical order invoked to justify it.

The delegation said the Convention against Torture had been rendered executory by a sovereign ordinance. It took precedence over domestic legislation. The State party was also considering domestic legislation that would define torture in line with the Convention.

The delegation said an impact study on the Optional Protocol to the Convention had been carried out, and the State party was not closing the door on ratification. However, it attached greater importance to the main international human rights instruments. There was only one detention facility in Monaco, which was already reviewed by international monitoring mechanisms.

The delegation also said that Monaco’s territory was only two square kilometres. Its small size made it necessary to turn to France for assistance in managing prisoners. Transfer requests to French prisons were made by detainees who were French citizens. The State party would consider formalising this procedure. French authorities cooperated with transfer procedures and guaranteed detainees’ rights. There was no transfer of citizens of Monaco to foreign prisons.

In closing remarks, Claude Heller, Committee Chair, said that the dialogue had been fruitful and frank. The Committee would develop concluding observations based on the dialogue, which would aid the State in the implementation of the Convention.

In his concluding remarks, Mr. Vuelta Simon said that Monaco was a small State that tried to do things properly, on the same level as larger countries. Some issues had been raised in the dialogue that the State party could make rapid progress on to promote the well-being of human beings, including detainees. Monaco hoped to demonstrate this progress in its next review with the Committee.

The delegation of Monaco consisted of representatives from the Directorate of Public Safety; Department of External Relations and Cooperation; Directorate of Legal Affairs; Directorate of Judicial Services; and the Permanent Mission of Monaco to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

The Committee will issue concluding observations on the report of Monaco at the end of its eighty-second session on 2 May. Those, and other documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, will be available on the session’s webpage. Summaries of the public meetings of the Committee can be found here, and webcasts of the public meetings can be found here.

The Committee will next meet in public on Thursday, 10 April at 3 p.m. to continue its examination of the fifth periodic report of Mauritius (CAT/C/MUS/5).

Report

The Committee has before it the seventh periodic report of Monaco (CAT/C/MCO/7).

Presentation of Report

SAMUEL VUELTA SIMON, Secretary of State for Justice, Director of Judicial Services of Mexico and head of the delegation, said human dignity was an absolute value that the Principality of Monaco was committed to protecting with determination. Monaco was committed to constantly improving its mechanisms for preventing and protecting against torture and inhuman treatment. Since the submission of its first report in 1994, Monaco had continued its efforts to strengthen its legal and institutional framework, which had led to significant progress, both in terms of legislation and the implementation of concrete measures to guarantee ever more effective protection against all forms of violence.

Monaco ensured that the legal framework was fully in line with its international commitments and that its texts were regularly adapted to better meet the requirements of the fight against torture and inhuman treatment. The Constitution explicitly guaranteed respect for human dignity and prohibited any cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. This absolute prohibition was reinforced by several provisions of the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, which allowed for severe punishment for any act resembling torture or inhuman treatment.

The Principality had begun an in-depth study to incorporate into its domestic law a definition of torture that was fully in line with article one of the Convention. A legislative proposal currently being prepared would ensure that the crime of torture was imprescriptible. It would also ensure the unenforceability of any hierarchical order invoked to justify it, and the absolute inadmissibility of evidence obtained under duress. These measures would complement an already strict legal arsenal which severely punished acts of violence, especially when committed by a public official.

Monaco also attached particular importance to supporting and providing reparation to victims. In 2023, it adopted an unprecedented compensation scheme for victims of serious crimes, including domestic violence and misdemeanours and crimes against minors, guaranteeing rapid and effective compensation to victims when the perpetrators were insolvent. Courts had an obligation to inform victims of this possibility.

In recent years, significant improvements had been made to Monaco’s prison to provide a more suitable living environment for inmates. The renovation of the cells had made it possible to bring in more natural light, while a new exercise yard and an activity room had been set up. A body scanner had recently been introduced to limit the use of body searches. The visiting regime had been significantly improved, allowing inmates to benefit from three 90-minute visits per week, in addition to two daily 45-minute visits.

The incarceration of minors remained an exceptional measure in Monaco. Recent reforms had strengthened the juvenile justice system to promote the reintegration and well-being of young people in conflict with the law. Anyone in police custody had the immediate right to information and the assistance of a lawyer, permanent judicial supervision, and audio-visual recording of interrogations, thus ensuring the transparency of proceedings. Since 2022, the right to the assistance of a lawyer had been strengthened in the event of an extension of police custody.

The Monegasque Institute for the Training of the Judicial Professions, in collaboration with other specialised institutions, provided regular training to public security forces on international standards for the respect of fundamental rights. The public security forces were thus regularly made aware of good practices, particularly regarding the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty.

Monaco ensured that respect for fundamental rights within its prison system was monitored. The Office of the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights, Freedoms and Mediation played a key role in this system by providing detainees with direct access to report any allegations of ill-treatment. Since the last review, a new right had been introduced allowing detainees to call the Office of the High Commissioner directly once a day, including when they were in a disciplinary cell.

Monaco reaffirmed its total commitment to the fight against torture and inhuman or degrading treatment. While there was still room for improvement, the legislative, judicial and institutional advances put in place in recent years had made it possible to considerably strengthen the prevention, control and punishment of abuses. Monaco would continue its efforts with determination to ensure that respect for human dignity was never compromised.

Questions by Committee Experts

ABDERRAZAK ROUWANE, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, expressed regret regarding the absence of civil society participants in the dialogue. Why were they absent? What measures had the State party taken to harmonise national legislation on torture with the Convention? The Committee had called on the State party to do so in each of its last six reviews. Could the delegation give some examples of court cases that had referenced the Convention or other United Nations human rights treaties? The Committee was concerned about the statute of limitations on torture crimes, the lack of specific provisions in the Criminal Code imposing an absolute prohibition of torture, and the lack of clear mechanisms protecting subordinates from being forced to carry out unlawful orders.

What measures had been taken to ensure that detainees enjoyed all basic legal rights from the outset of deprivation of liberty? The Committee had called on the State party to amend legislation that allowed police officers to prevent detainees from contacting a family member if such communication was considered detrimental to investigations. Had this been done? Did victims benefit from legal aid in cases involving allegations of torture or ill-treatment?

What steps had been taken to promote the accreditation of the Office of the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights, Freedoms and Mediation under the Paris Principles? The Office did not have a specific mandate to protect against human rights violations, including torture and ill-treatment, and it did not have the competence to conduct investigations, publish studies or formulate opinions on draft legislation on its own initiative. Could the delegation comment on this? Why had the State party decided not to ratify the Optional Protocol and set up a national preventive mechanism against torture?

The Committee congratulated Monaco on having ratified a significant number of human rights instruments within the framework of the United Nations system and the Council of Europe. Would it ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and the Convention for the Protection of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families?

The Committee noted positive amendments to the law on the status of the judiciary to strengthen the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, which had enabled the Council to take up disciplinary matters on its own. However, the Council’s role in appointing judges had not been increased and its activity report was not made public. The Director of Judicial Services, part of the executive, chaired the High Council and could appoint and suspend judges and magistrates directly. The Prosecutor General and the magistrates of the Public Prosecutor’s Office were also under the direct authority of the Director. Was this not interference by the executive in the affairs of justice? How would the State party ensure the full independence of the judiciary, including in matters related to appointment and disciplinary measures?

Could the State party provide updated data on extraditions, asylum applications, and the number of appeals against asylum decisions? The Committee noted that refugees enjoyed the rights provided for in the 1951 Convention on the Status of Refugees. However, there was a lack of clarity regarding the asylum process and safeguards offered, and uncertainty surrounding the procedure for cooperation between the State party and the French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons. Would the State party implement a mechanism to follow up on asylum seekers’ cases with the Office? What measures were in place to domesticate an asylum assessment procedure? Could the State party provide information on extradition cases and requests made for mutual legal assistance related to international cases involving torture?

A large number of foreigners living in neighbouring countries were working informally in Monaco and were at risk of trafficking. How was the State party combatting trafficking in persons, raising awareness of the issue, and training the judiciary on it? What measures were in place to strengthen the identification of trafficking victims? What tools were available to public officials to guide the identification of child victims of trafficking?

The Committee had previously called for the strengthening of training for the judiciary and prison officials on the Convention and the revised Istanbul Protocol of 2022. What measures would the State party take to train officials who were in contact with persons deprived of liberty on the absolute prohibition of torture? Were there any monitoring mechanisms in places of deprivation of liberty?

ERDOGAN ISCAN, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, commended the recent progress by the State presented in the opening statement. The Committee noted that the remand prison of Monaco had recently been extended, its facilities upgraded, and the visit regime improved. However, there were limits to the extent to which the prison could be expanded due to its location, and the prison reportedly remained unsuitable for prolonged detention due to its limited natural light and lack of space for activities. What further steps would be taken to improve prison conditions?

Some inmates continued to be transferred to French prisons, and the State party lacked oversight of places of deprivation of liberty in France. There was no formalised legal procedure for recording prisoners’ consent and requests regarding transfers. Would one be created? How many Monegasque prisoners were currently serving sentences in French prisons? Which State was responsible for ensuring legal safeguards for these prisoners? Did they have access to lawyers and could they maintain social connections in Monaco? How would the State party ensure this right? Which State conducted investigations in cases of complaints by these prisoners? Had the State party considered expanding the capacity of its prison system to allow inmates to remain in Monaco?

Did current legislation prohibit corporal punishment in all settings, including homes and educational institutions? Were awareness raising campaigns or training programmes on corporal punishment for parents and childcare professionals planned? Minors under age 13 could not be detained but could be held in police custody for up to 24 hours in criminal cases. Could the delegation provide data on minors in police custody? Would the State party consider revising legislation to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to at least 14 years of age?

Had the State party made progress in adopting legislation that provided full redress to victims of torture? Would it consider scaling up its support to the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, and had it updated legislation to ensure that statements obtained through torture were made null and void?

The Committee noted with satisfaction measures taken by the State party to prevent and combat violence against women, including revision of the Criminal Code and awareness raising campaigns. What protection measures were in place for foreign women who were victims of violence, and what resources were devoted to programmes and measures to combat violence against women?

Reportedly, conditions in closed psychiatric units in the Princess Grace Hospital were good, but improvements were needed regarding prolonged hospitalisation and treatment of minors and detainees requiring psychiatric care. Was the State party addressing this?

Another Committee Expert asked whether the Convention was directly applicable in Monaco. How were potential conflicts between the Convention and domestic legislation resolved?

One Committee Expert asked how many prisoners were serving in Monaco. What happened to prisoners who did not consent to being transferred to French prisons? Could the delegation clarify whether consent was needed to conduct transfers?

A Committee Expert said domestic law on trafficking was sound, but the State party needed to strengthen the training of law enforcement officials, social workers, medical staff and the public on identifying victims of trafficking.

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Director of Judicial Services was also the Secretary of State for Justice, which, as a member of the judiciary, was not part of the executive branch of Government but fell under the authority of the Prince. The judiciary was guaranteed security of tenure and independence. The Secretary of State for Justice gave generalised guidance to the judiciary that was consistent with State policies, but prosecutors were free to speak independently in carrying out their work.

Monaco’s territory was only two square kilometres. Its small size made it necessary to turn to France for assistance for managing prisoners. There were only six prosecutors and 22 jurists who worked with legislators to develop legal texts. Some 39,000 people lived in Monaco but only 9,000 had citizenship.

The Supreme Council of the Judiciary was made up of two elected judges and five judges appointed by the Council itself. Both the Secretary of State for Justice and the Supreme Council could take up cases of discipline of judges. The Supreme Council selected candidates for judicial posts and had a special budget guaranteeing its independence. Training was provided to newly appointed judges and prosecutors through French institutions; approximately two-thirds of judges had been seconded from France. A draft law had been developed that would create a reserve pool of judges to strengthen the domestic availability of judges.

Monaco had a dualist system. The Prince signed and ratified international treaties, with authorisation by the National Council. Sovereign ordinances were used to allow for international treaties to be directly invoked before national courts. There were cases in which the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the European Convention of Human Rights had been invoked. The Constitution had the highest status in the domestic legal order, followed by international treaties, which took precedence over domestic legislation.

The Constitution expressly prohibited torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. Acts of torture committed in offences of sexual aggression, terrorism and abduction were considered to be aggravated crimes. Monaco’s judicial services had limited capacity, but aimed to establish a stand-alone offence of torture in line with article one of the Convention through a draft law that was currently before the legislature. Serious crimes committed against minors had a statute of limitations of 30 years, which started when the victim reached the age of majority. Monaco’s law imposed an absolute prohibition of torture; it was impossible to justify acts of torture in any circumstances. Hierarchical superiors were held accountable for illegal orders to carry out acts of torture, as were agents who carried out such orders. Subordinates who refused to obey illegal orders were not disciplined or considered to have committed a crime.

There was one case of trafficking against a minor in which the court had referenced the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime in its ruling. The scope of the criminalisation of trafficking had been broadened to address domestic trafficking cases that did not involve organised crime. Trafficking that endangered victims’ lives, trafficking of minors, and trafficking by public officials or members of organised criminal groups were considered aggravating circumstances.

Police custody was always recorded and was subject to court oversight; examining magistrates could end police custody at any point. All persons in police custody were informed of the reasons of their detention and their rights, including the right to access a lawyer from the beginning of custody. All persons who earned less than 20,000 euros per year were entitled to free legal aid. Detainees could request a medical examination at any point. The State party intended to regulate the grounds under which the Prosecutor General could restrict detainees’ right to contact a relative. Hearings were filmed and could be conducted in the presence of a legal counsel. Criminal investigative officers needed to record the time of detention and other details relating to the detention, including reasons for refusals of detainees’ rights.

Minors under 13 could not be placed in police custody unless they committed an offence that carried a five-year prison sentence. Hearings of minors needed to be conducted with a lawyer present. Police custody of minors was typically 12 hours but could be extended to 24 hours in criminal cases with the permission of a judge.

Legislation on the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights and Mediation had been revised to bring the institution in line with the Paris Principles. The law allowed the High Commissioner to carry out surveys and provide recommendations related to combatting discrimination, protecting human rights, and implementing international conventions. It also strengthened the High Commissioner’s investigative powers and gave the body powers to defend the rights of the child. Steps had been taken to promote registration of the institution by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions. Since 2022, detainees were able to contact the High Commissioner directly by telephone, in addition to through written communications. Monaco had installed a body scanning machine in its prison after detainees’ complaints to the High Commissioner regarding body searches.

Civil society in Monaco was very active. As there had been no demonstrated cases of torture in the State for almost a century, there were no non-governmental organizations working on the issue. The High Commissioner’s mandate had recently been expanded and it was now recruiting staff to address its new functions. In future, the High Commissioner could be able to participate in reviews by the Committee.

Ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance was not a priority for the State. The State party tried to align its legislation with international instruments before ratifying them, which caused delays in ratification. There were no cases of enforced disappearance in Monaco.

An impact study on the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture had been carried out. There was only one detention facility in Monaco, which was already reviewed by international monitoring mechanisms. There had been no complaints regarding ill-treatment or poor conditions. Ratifying the Optional Protocol was not a top priority for the Government but could be done in future. Monaco made voluntary contributions to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, but did not envisage providing contributions to the Voluntary Fund for the Victims of Torture.

Refugees fell under ordinary law for entry and stay in Monaco. They received 10-year residence permits. The State currently hosted 23 refugees. Monaco respected the principle of non-refoulement. Asylum seekers whose claims were rejected were not immediately removed, unless they posed a threat to public safety. The Government called on the relevant French authority to assess asylum claims. Refusals of asylum claims were always explained and could be appealed before the relevant court. The overseas diplomatic presence of Monaco in countries of origin for asylum seekers was limited.

When the Ukraine conflict began in 2022, Monaco established a system providing temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens who had lived in Monaco prior to the establishment of the system. Currently, around 50 Ukrainians held the temporary protection permit, which allowed them to access health, education and other social services. Many holders of this permit had since gained residency permits.

The State party had not received any requests for mutual legal assistance or handled any international cases involving torture. It had received one extradition request, which Monaco’s court of appeal rejected due to concerns about human rights protections.

In 2020, two people were transferred to French prisons, while one person was transferred in 2023 and another in 2024; there were two requests in 2025 that were being assessed. Transfer requests to France were typically made by French citizens. All requests for prison transfers were made in writing by the detainees themselves. The State party would consider formalising this procedure. There were no difficulties in transfers to France; French authorities cooperated with transfer procedures and guaranteed detainees’ rights. Requests for transfers to other countries were considered based on respect for detainees’ rights.

The national human rights institution received and investigated written complaints from detainees. There was also an internal oversight body within the police force that could be called on by the judiciary to investigate police officers accused of human rights violations. Complaints made to the Prosecutor-General triggered judicial proceedings. Legal assistance was available for persons who filed for civil damages. A compensation mechanism had been set up for victims of serious offences who could not be compensated by the perpetrator. Compensation covered damages and court costs. State compensation could also be provided to persons who were placed in pre-trial detention before being released or acquitted.

The State party had adopted a law on school bullying and harassment, and the Criminal Code prohibited and punished corporal punishment, including in school and family settings. Teaching staff and other school staff underwent annual training on identifying and addressing harassment of children. Schools needed to implement awareness raising initiatives to combat harassment and bullying.

Incarceration and pre-trial detention of children were last resort measures. Judges could determine alternatives to prosecution of minor offenders, including provisional releases, reparation for victims, community service, and training within social health institutions. Judges could also order minors to be placed in the Foyer d’Enfance, from which they were free to come and go. In 2020, five minors were charged, of whom none were detained; in 2021, seven minors were charged and only one was placed in pre-trial detention for one month and 20 days; and in 2022, out of the 15 minors who were charged, only two were placed in pre-trial detention.

The age of criminal responsibility in Monaco was 13 years. None of the 15 minor offenders in 2022 were aged 13. The State party would consider raising the age threshold and revising the legal status of minors in the country.

Considerable progress had been made since 2020 in improving the detention facility. The State had installed cells with better access to natural light, a games room, a new exercise yard, and air conditioning and heating facilities within cells. Exercise and folding laundry were no longer mandatory, televisions did not need to be switched off at certain times, and the State no longer imposed solitary confinement on detainees.

Women and child victims of violence were supported by the Directorate for Social Assistance. A protocol for care of victims of domestic violence had been established. Health care professionals were trained in caring for victims and managing perpetrators when they accompanied them. Victims were provided with shelter in emergencies when they could not stay with friends or family. They were entitled to medical care, psychological assistance, and legal advice.

The employment service verified working conditions for migrant workers and the labour inspectorate carried out numerous checks to ensure that workers’ rights were being respected. Officials held interviews with applicants for residence and work permits to detect risks of trafficking. To date, 96 public officials had received training on identifying and treating victims of trafficking.

Members of the judiciary were obliged to attend at least five days of training per year either locally or in France, which addressed human rights and international and European norms. The State sought to ensure that the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights were incorporated in domestic legislation as soon as possible.

Training of police officers lasted 10 months. It stressed the rights of apprehended persons, including the right to be protected from violence, inhumane and degrading treatment. All police officers had to abide by the code of professional ethnics and respect the dignity of persons. They were trained on ethical means of restraint, bodily searches, the use of reasonable force, and the prohibition of torture.

Questions by Committee Experts

ABDERRAZAK ROUWANE, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the Committee welcomed that there were no cases of torture in Monaco, but this could not be used as an excuse for not ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention. Crimes needed to be legislated for regardless of their prevalence. A national preventive mechanism would be mandated to investigate all places of deprivation of liberty, including the psychiatric hospital and airports. It would be fantastic if a European country could ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families. Many of the 63,000 workers in Monaco were migrant workers who needed legal protection.

Could detainees from Monaco be transferred to French prisons? When there were criminal prosecutions of perpetrators, were alleged victims entitled to legal assistance? Did the State party intend to provide the Supreme Council of the Judiciary with further independence?

ERDOGAN ISCAN, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the dialogue had been constructive. Even if there was limited scope for implementing the Optional Protocol, ratification would set a positive example for other States. Some 42 of the 46 members of the Council of Europe had ratified the Optional Protocol. Did the State party plan to remove its reservation to article 30 of the Convention. Member States needed to continue to support the treaty body system in a sustainable manner. What was Monaco’s position on this?

Another Committee Expert asked whether Monaco had adopted measures addressing trade in equipment used to inflict pain and suffering.

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the State party was not closing the door on ratifying the Optional Protocol; it was still considering the option. However, it attached greater importance to the main international human rights instruments. Impact assessment studies on these instruments took time due to the State’s limited resources.

There were around 60,000 cross-border workers travelling from France or Italy to Monaco every day. They were entitled to the rights embodied by Monaco’s labour laws.

The Convention against Torture had been rendered executory by a sovereign ordinance. It took precedence over domestic legislation. The State party was also considering domestic legislation that would define torture in line with the Convention.

Legal aid lasted from the beginning to the end of legal proceedings.

There was no transfer of Monaco citizens to foreign prisons. Transfers were only for foreign detainees who had requested a transfer back to their country of origin; such transfers were essentially humanitarian.

The Supreme Council of the Judiciary promoted the independence of the judiciary. It drew mostly on the French model. The Secretary of State for Justice was responsible for appointing and promoting judges, but the Supreme Council approved appointments and promotions and could take up disciplinary cases on its own initiative.

Concluding Remarks

CLAUDE HELLER, Committee Chair, said that the dialogue had been fruitful and frank. The Committee would develop concluding observations based on the dialogue, which would aid the State in the implementation of the Convention. The Committee did not judge States based on their size; it treated them all equally.

SAMUEL VUELTA SIMON, Secretary of State for Justice of Monaco, Director of Judicial Services and head of the delegation, thanked the Committee for the dialogue. Monaco was a small State that tried to do things properly, on the same level as larger countries, though staff numbers made this difficult. The State tried to respond as best it could to its realities. Monaco welcomed the Committee’s advice and relevant questions. Some issues had been raised that the State party could make rapid progress on to promote the well-being of human beings, including detainees. Monaco hoped to demonstrate this progress in its next review with the Committee.

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Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CAT25.002E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: In Dialogue with Niger, Experts of the Committee on Migrant Workers Commend the State on Legislation Protecting Migrants, Raise Issues Concerning Bilateral Agreements and the Migration Centre in Agadez

Source: United Nations – Geneva

The Committee on Migrant Workers today concluded its consideration of the second periodic report of Niger under the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, with Committee Experts welcoming the State’s legislation focused on the protection of migrants, while raising issues concerning bilateral agreements with other countries and the migration centre in Agadez.

Khaled Cheikhna Babacar, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur,

welcomed that the Niger had ratified the 10 key International Labour Organization Conventions, 2018 legislation that included principles of social protection for migrants, and bilateral agreements that had been reached with neighbouring countries on migrant workers.

Myriam Poussi, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said most of the bilateral agreements the Niger had reportedly formed with countries in the region were seemingly not applied. Could the delegation comment on this? Were the agreements with Türkiye and Morocco referred to in the report in effect? The State party had yet to set up a committee to follow-up on the implementation of the agreement with Algeria. What benefits were migrant workers provided with through the agreement with Tunisia?

A Committee Expert said the reform of the law on illegal smuggling of migrants addressed the outsourcing of processing of migrants by the European Union to the migration centre in Agadez, which had led to increased trafficking in the region. How was the State party addressing this situation? Did the withdrawal of the Niger from the Economic Community of West African States impact the organization’s agreement on freedom of movement?

Alio Daouda, Minister of Justice and Human Rights of the Niger, Keeper of the Seals and head of the delegation, said the legislation of the Niger guaranteed migrant workers access to social protection, including health and education. Migrant workers had access to the competent administrative and judicial bodies in the event of violations of their rights and had access to free legal assistance and redress mechanisms. The major obstacle to the realisation of human rights of migrant workers in the Niger remained terrorism, which had a profound negative impact on the realisation of human rights.

The delegation said the Niger had suspended bilateral agreements with Saudi Arabia, Libya and Algeria, as these countries had violated these agreements, repatriating many migrants from the Niger. Every time the Niger formed a labour agreement, it set up a body to monitor the implementation of the agreement and protect workers’ rights. The State party had conducted activities to ensure that private recruitment agencies were aware of their responsibilities to protect migrant workers. Portions of migrant workers’ salaries could not be withheld by these agencies.

The delegation said the humanitarian centre at Agadez hosted asylum seekers and refugees. The State party was assessing asylum requests. Transit centres managed by the International Organization for Migration were also in place that hosted migrants and processed their repatriation. Algeria expatriated about 500 foreign migrants to Agadez every month, forcing them to walk about 15 kilometres through the desert to reach the transit centres. The Niger was calling on Algeria to change the way it expelled people, which violated the rights of these migrants.

In concluding remarks, Sabrina Gahar, Committee Expert and Co-Rapporteur, said the Niger’s report showed that the State was committed to protecting the rights of migrant workers and their families. However, there was still a lot to do to guarantee that the rights of migrant workers and members of their families were fully respected and protected.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Daouda expressed gratitude for the attention given to the report and the efforts of the Niger to guarantee the basic rights of migrants and their families. The State acknowledged the remaining challenges, but would tackle them with conviction and would step up efforts to meet the provisions under the Convention.

The delegation of Niger was made up of representatives of the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights; Department of Political, Administrative, Legal and Diplomatic Affairs; National Agency for the Fight against Trafficking in Persons; Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Employment; Ministry of the Interior, Public Security and Territorial Administration; and the Permanent Mission of Niger to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

The Committee on Migrant Workers’ fortieth session is being held from 7 to 17 April. All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage. Meeting summary releases can be found here. The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

The Committee will next meet in public at 3 p.m. this afternoon, Wednesday, 9 April, to consider the combined initial and second periodic report of Jamaica (CMW/C/JAM/1-2).

Report

The Committee has before it the second periodic report of the Niger (CMW/C/NER/2).

Presentation of the Report

ALIO DAOUDA, Minister of Justice and Human Rights of the Niger, Keeper of the Seals and head of the delegation, expressed sincere regret that the Convention currently had only 60 States parties, 34 of which were from the African continent. No country among the main destinations of migrants had ratified it. By acting together, in a spirit of universal solidarity, States could ensure a future for migrant workers based on the values of dignity, fairness and mutual respect.

The events of 26 July 2023 had led to the coming to power of the Defence and Security Forces of the Niger. This seizure of power, which immediately received popular support, was motivated by the rejection of security models and bad governance. Following this change of regime, the State experienced unprecedented, illegal sanctions, decided by the Economic Community of West African States and the West African Economic and Monetary Union, materialised by the closure of borders, the cessation of the supply of foodstuffs and medicines, and the blocking of access to savings in banks.

These sanctions were guided by Western powers using regional and international organizations as tools for geopolitical domination. They had deprived millions of innocent inhabitants, nationals and foreigners alike, of food, healthcare, medicine, education, freedom of movement, access to their savings, access to electricity, dignity and well-being, in the face of the deafening, complicit silence of international organizations. The world needed to denounce this situation and work for an international order based on dignity and mutual respect.

The National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland, upon its accession to power in July 2023, reaffirmed its commitment to respect human rights as defined by the treaties and conventions to which the country had freely subscribed. The Niger, well-known for its hospitality as a country of transit and origin of migratory flows, attached particular importance to the protection of the rights of migrant workers and members of their families.

In the context of the security situation, which had been marked by the recurrence of attacks by armed terrorist groups supported by foreign powers, the Niger had adopted ordinance no. 2023-02 of 28 July 2023 on the organization of public authorities during the transition period, and the 2025 Constitution, which guaranteed human rights as enshrined in international instruments. The revised Labour Code had been developed to better protect migrant workers’ rights, while the revised Penal Code, which was in the process of being adopted, prohibited all forms of discrimination and harassment, including discrimination based on national origin.

The legislation of the Niger guaranteed migrant workers access to social protection, including health and education. Migrant workers had access to the competent administrative and judicial bodies in the event of violations of their rights and had access to free legal assistance and redress mechanisms. In addition, institutions had been set up to combat trafficking in persons and to manage migratory flows, particularly in transit regions such as Agadez. The Niger was working closely with the International Organization for Migration to provide humanitarian assistance and build local capacity. It was working to develop initiatives to provide accurate information to migrants, facilitating their access to legal identity documents and promoting ethical recruitment practices.

Despite measures taken to combat migrant smuggling, criminal networks continued to exploit vulnerable migrants, especially women and children. This situation was worsened by neighbouring countries that pushed back hundreds of migrants from the Niger and other countries to the territory of the Niger, despite the signing of several bilateral and regional agreements. In 2022, 18,728 migrants were pushed back to the Niger. In addition, conflicts in neighbouring countries and humanitarian crises were increasing the migratory pressure on the Niger, further complicating the implementation of migration policies. In this context, revisions to the national employment and migration policies were being developed. All these challenges required national, regional and international efforts to ensure that the rights of migrant workers were protected in an effective and sustainable manner.

The major obstacle to the realisation of human rights of migrant workers in the Niger remained terrorism, which had a profound negative impact on the realisation of human rights. Attacks in the border regions had led to massive displacement of populations, creating a humanitarian crisis that affected all rights. These barbaric acts, which intended to sow fear and divide, would never succeed in shaking the State’s unity and resilience.

The Niger was committed to honouring its international obligations and to working actively with the Committee to ensure the effective implementation of the Convention.

Questions by Committee Experts

KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said that the Niger had a border of over 7,000 kilometres and was affected by violence from Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria. There were numerous migrants travelling through the Niger to Europe; many refugees were stranded in the desert and internally displaced persons were exploited by gangs and needed support.

Mr. Babacar welcomed that the Niger had ratified the 10 key International Labour Organization Conventions. Would it ratify conventions addressing migrant workers, domestic workers, workplace harassment and labour inspection? Were there complaint mechanisms in place that workers in the informal sector, including domestic workers, could access? The Expert welcomed that the Labour Code was being revised; this was a good opportunity to address its shortcomings. Would the State party develop specific legislation to protect domestic workers? Would the national action plan on migration be revised to include measures to promote the registration of the children of migrants?

Mr. Babacar welcomed 2018 legislation that included principles of social protection for migrants, and bilateral agreements that had been reached with neighbouring countries on migrant workers. What measures were included in these agreements that protected migrant workers’ rights, including the right to join trade unions? The Niger permitted the activities of private recruitment agencies, which had abusive recruitment practices such as charging workers 20 per cent of their salaries. What would the Niger do to combat these practices?

MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the State party’s report did not sufficiently describe the situation of migrant workers and provided incomplete information on activities being undertaken by the State. Could the delegation provide more information about progress in reforming the Labour Code? What provisions of the Convention would be addressed in the Code? How would the State party promote its implementation? What had been achieved by the national action plan on migration? What activities had been organised in the last five years to promote and protect the rights of all migrant workers and members of their families?

Could the delegation provide more information on the practice of wahaya? Were there plans to prosecute the perpetrators of this practice, which could be tantamount to a form of sexual slavery? Female migrant workers could be victims of this practice.

Most of the bilateral agreements the Niger had reportedly formed with countries in the region were seemingly not applied. Could the delegation comment on this? Were the agreements with Türkiye and Morocco referred to in the report in effect? The State party had yet to set up a committee to follow-up on the implementation of the agreement with Algeria. What benefits were migrant workers provided with through the agreement with Tunisia?

What services did the Office for Returned Migrants provide and how many people had it helped? What information was provided to the Niger diaspora and in what form? How did the State register and support returnees to reintegrate into society, and promote the repatriation of funds by migrant workers to the Niger? Had the State party established a joint committee on illegal smuggling and trafficking? What was the committee’s composition and mandate?

Another Committee Expert asked whether returning Niger migrant workers were able to receive pensions. Were civil servants informed about their obligations under the Convention? What civil society organizations in the State party were dealing with the rights of migrant workers? What dispute mechanisms were available for migrant workers? Did the State party have information on detained migrant workers? What legal support did the State party provide for migrant workers abroad?

One Committee Expert asked how civil society organizations had contributed to the State party’s report. Why had the State party not yet accepted articles 76 and 77 of the Convention, despite having expressed a desire to do so in 2022?

A Committee Expert said the reform of the law on illegal smuggling of migrants addressed the outsourcing of processing of migrants by the European Union to the migration centre in Agadez, which had led to increased trafficking in the region. How was the State party addressing this situation? Did the withdrawal of the Niger from the Economic Community of West African States impact the organization’s agreement on freedom of movement?

Another Committee Expert said migrants in the region were victims of deportation, incommunicado detention and other human rights violations, and many perished in the Sahara Desert. How did the State party address these issues and protect migrants from refoulement? Why was there a comparatively low rate of migration from the Niger to Europe and the Americas?

A Committee Expert asked whether the national mechanism for following up on treaty body recommendations cooperated with civil society organizations on issues related to migration. What support did the Labour Ministry provide to migrants? Why was the National Human Rights Commission dissolved in 2023? Did the Commission deal with cases or issue recommendations related to migrant workers? When would a new national human rights institution be set up, what would its mandate be, and what resources would it have? Many migrants being held in migration centres in the Niger were struggling to return to their countries of origin. How was the State party supporting them? Had courts referred to the provisions of the Convention, and had this had an impact on law or public policy on migration in the State party?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Niger provided advice to migrants abroad so they were aware of their rights. However, it had limited resources and could not devote additional resources to supporting this policy.

The 2015 law on illegal smuggling included a provision criminalising the illegal crossing of borders that ran counter to the Palermo Protocol. The Niger had thus repealed the law to bring it in line with the Protocol. Migrants were made more vulnerable to traffickers under the law. The State remained a member of the Economic Community of West African States and its agreement on freedom of movement. Some countries and terrorist groups attacked territory of the Niger; the State party had implemented legal and policy measures to repel these attacks.

The Niger had an inter-ministerial committee for developing State party reports that included members of civil society in the process. The Niger continued to support civil society.

Foreign workers in the Niger could join trade unions but needed to live in the country for three years to hold management positions in trade unions. Domestic workers and workers in the informal sector could submit complaints to trade unions. The Labour Code included provisions enshrining the principle of non-discrimination and access to education and trade unions for migrant workers.

The Niger had suspended bilateral agreements with Saudi Arabia, Libya and Algeria, as these countries had violated these agreements, repatriating many migrants from the Niger. Every time the Niger formed a labour agreement, it set up a body to monitor the implementation of the agreement and protect workers’ rights. The State party had conducted activities to ensure that private recruitment agencies were aware of their responsibilities to protect migrant workers. Portions of migrant workers’ salaries could not be withheld by these agencies.

The Niger had ratified 41 International Labour Organization Conventions and two protocols. It had implemented activities to protect domestic workers and disseminate the International Labour Organization Convention on domestic workers, with support from United Nations agencies. The Niger had not yet ratified International Labour Organization Convention 190 on violence in the workplace but was working to do so, and conducting training on preventing such violence.

The State party had ratified conventions on labour inspection and administration. There were 10 labour inspectorates established in major towns. Labour inspections were conducted regularly in the formal and informal sectors. The Government had bolstered the capacities of inspectors through training, which stressed the importance of protecting migrant workers. The revised Labour Code was still a draft. The State party had identified deficiencies in the Code that it sought to review to align the Code with the Convention.

The national migration policy included numerous measures to protect and support migrants and refugees and manage migration flows. There was a law on the status of migrant workers that allowed migrants to be registered in the civil registry. The births of the children of migrants were recorded. A 2023 review on the implementation of the policy found progress had been made in police officers’ and civil society’s knowledge of migrants’ rights, thanks to training on this subject from the State. This training was being revised to address the impact of climate change on migrants.

The humanitarian centre at Agadez hosted asylum seekers and refugees. The State party was assessing asylum requests. Transit centres managed by the International Organization for Migration were also in place that hosted migrants and processed their repatriation. Algeria expatriated about 500 foreign migrants to Agadez every month, forcing them to walk about 15 kilometres through the desert to reach the transit centres. The Niger was calling on Algeria to change the way it expelled people, which violated the rights of these migrants. There were some migrants who were forced to stay at transit centres for one year due to difficulties in identifying their countries of origin and repatriating them. The Niger could not afford to pay for repatriation flights for migrants.

An inter-ministerial committee and a technical committee on repatriation of Niger nationals abroad were set up in 2024. The former committee was tasked with managing returns and taking people to their towns of origin, while the latter conducted studies on repatriation and assisted reintegration activities. Officials went to host countries to organise repatriation operations, which were paid for by the Niger.

Questions by Committee Experts

KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, asked if the labour inspectors held a specific status, ensuring they had enough resources to perform their tasks impartially? The Niger had a national action plan to combat child labour, with support from the International Labour Organization. Had an assessment of the plan taken place? What actions had been taken in terms of planning after 2018? The Niger had rolled out awareness raising campaigns for the labour market, which concluded in 2022; what actions had been undertaken since then? Were there any possibilities for remedies or appeals against expulsions or deportations?

A Committee Expert commended the Niger for taking an inclusive approach to drafting the report; what was the consultation process followed during the preparation of the report? Had external partners been consulted? What was the role of civil society in the preparation of the report? Regarding multilateral agreements with several countries, what measures had been taken for children and women on the move from the Niger? Had the Niger been able to pinpoint barriers in integrating the migration policy? Could information be provided about the protection of the statistical data of migrants?

Could more details be provided about the specific causes of insecurity which had caused children to be displaced in the five regions? What measures had been taken to protect the rights of displaced children? Was there a response plan to support internally displaced persons, including children? What initiatives had been taken to ensure displaced children could have access to education? What psycho-social support was available to these children? Was there a mechanism to follow up on the number of children who were displaced?

MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the delegation had mentioned a tripartite memorandum between the Niger, the International Organization for Migration and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which had provided assistance to hundreds of unaccompanied children. How many children had received this assistance? Could details of the beneficiaries of assistance be provided? Had the resettlement of these children in third countries taken place? Which countries did this occur in? How many children were affected by this settlement?

What had been the outcome of the strategy to strengthen systems along the migration route? What was the timeline to ensure that the new protection strategy was finalised? What was the hosting capacity of the six holistic centres, created to deal with gender-based violence? How did they operate? Did they fall under the management of a specific State body? What was the training provided to the individuals running these centres? What assistance was provided to those living in these centres?

Another Committee Expert said the Niger faced security threats, including terrorism which could impact the services provided to migrant workers. What measures had been taken in terms of training the military, border guards, the judiciary and other officials implementing the rights of migrant workers to respond to terrorism situations which involved migrants, in line with international best practices?

A Committee Expert said the Niger faced issues due to sanctions from European countries. Did these countries take steps to support migrant workers from the Niger to improve their rights? What types of consular services could the Niger provide for these workers?

Another Expert asked if the diaspora still had five of the 100 seats in the National Assembly reserved? This was a very high figure. Was the migration rate still 3.8 per cent? What instruments governed the Niger now that the Constitution was suspended? Could the State elaborate on the situation of the national human rights body? What was the true situation of statelessness in the country? Was there legislation and data collection?

A Committee Expert asked if refugee children were actually refugees, or if there were migrants amongst them? There were 237 unaccompanied children who were refugees and over 1,000 had been separated from their families in 2024. What support was provided to these children? Were they housed in the same camps as other migrants? What steps were taken to avoid situations of statelessness? What was the State party doing to assist migrants returning to the Niger? How was their reintegration being assisted and what support was being given?

The report from the High Commissioner found that there were migrants who were not from the Economic Community of West African States area, who had been subject to refoulment from Algeria, Syria, Egypt and Yemen. These migrants were often denied access to the Niger, which was discriminatory and ran counter to international law. The report stated these people were returned 500 kilometres northeast of the capital and could not submit a request for asylum. Could the delegation comment on this? What was the fate of these migrants? What was being done to provide them with the international protection they were entitled to?

Responses by the Delegation

Regarding people received from Syria and Yemen, the delegation said the State had its own problems when it came to managing domestic security and needed to allocate resources to its own people. The situation in the Niger was complicated. The report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights referred to one spontaneous refoulment relating to a specific population. There were a number of resettlement programmes dedicated to these individuals. The Niger had never claimed that the fight against terrorism was a grounds to human rights not being respected. Why did the Committee not question those who financed terrorism, like the French, who wanted to steal the Niger’s resources? These questions were disturbing. Soldiers of the Niger did not violate the laws; they were trained on human rights issues. There were specific units within the army who dealt with criminal proceedings.

There were no financial resources provided to civil society to prepare and submit reports in the Niger. Civil society was involved in the design of the reports; they participated on the same footing as all partners and made proposals. Mobilising resources to civil society was a challenge, but they were involved in discussions. In many countries of the subregion, the wahaya, or “fifth wives” practice existed, but the Niger had addressed this issue and sanctioned its practice.

The Niger had had security agencies run by foreigners who wanted to take part in the destabilisation of the regime. Weapons of war had been found in the warehouses, under the control of France, to attack the Niger. Therefore, there was no choice but to prohibit this profession to foreigners. The State would not hesitate to take additional measures to protect its national security.
Displaced children were sometimes displaced due to terrorism from Nigeria. The Niger faced a problem in this regard. There were a few countries whose populations had been refouled to the Niger. The Niger needed to focus on the resettlement of its own people in its own borders and could not always assist those returned to other countries.

The term wahaya did not actually refer to a “fifth wife”; there was no marriage involved. This referred to a woman who had been bought, given or exchanged. It was defined as a form of slavery. Civil society organizations were fully involved in all stages of the report, including data collection. The 2023 ordinance superseded the Constitution and equated to the new Constitution. This ordinance was for Government powers during the transition. The ordinance was repealed last month after the new Charter was adopted. The same rights in the Constitution were enshrined in this new State Charter, meaning there was no Constitutional vacuum.

The Special Rapporteur on the rights of migrants had spent eight days in the Niger, during which he found that the 2015 ordinance ran counter to the Convention. Banning migration meant migrants had to change their itineraries and take more dangerous roads, resulting in hundreds of deaths. There were modules held throughout schools for training, as well as throughout the police, gendarmerie and judiciary. The State went to remote areas to organise training workshops on the Convention and all other instruments entered into by the State.

The Niger was party to the two Conventions on Statelessness. Children who faced statelessness in the Niger who were in the country and met the necessary conditions could acquire citizenship. Children whose parents were unknown could also apply for citizenship. There were no stateless individuals in the country.

The diaspora document had been drafted by the private sector, civil society and the Government. This was a guide for returnees who wished to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country. The Niger had five seats in the National Assembly dedicated to the diaspora before the Constitution. There were large communities of Niger nationals in Benin, Sudan and Burkina Faso, among others, which was the reason for this choice.

All the texts for the Human Rights Observatory were ready and it should be established soon. It would have the same competencies as the Human Rights Commission. In addition to the technical services in charge of migration, migrants also received training to ensure they could stay in the Niger.

Refugees could not be refouled to countries where their lives could be at risk, but migrants could go to courts with an expedited procedure. The Niger as a member country of the International Labour Organization was aware that the ratification of international labour standards would make it possible to guarantee the protection of migrant workers. The resources available to the labour inspectors were lacking and while they had a specific status, they encountered difficulties in carrying out their everyday work. To date, the Niger did not have a national action plan to combat child labour, but it was in the process of drafting this plan.

The bilateral agreements the Niger had signed with countries of destination each had their own specific features and focused on social security. The Niger had made significant progress with Qatar and was in the process of drawing up a memorandum of understanding.

Refugee children from the Niger were not held together with adults, but were placed in foster families, who were supported to care for these children. Children who had been placed in foster families benefitted from State support, free of charge health care, and access to school. Their parents could have access to the justice system without any restrictions. Despite meagre resources, the Niger had been able to welcome Africans from other nationalities and provide them with the necessary care.

Questions by Committee Experts

SABRINA GAHAR, Committee Expert and Co-Rapporteur, asked for more information about cooperation with non-governmental organizations? How did the Government collaborate and cooperate to meet the specific needs of vulnerable groups? The Committee commended the Niger on the strategy to combat gender-based violence. Had an assessment of the strategy been conducted? What were the success indicators? Did the strategy concern harmful practices against migrant girls?

What measures were taken by the State to combat sexual violence against women and girls in certain regions? It was reported that some women were trapped and forced into prostitution to survive. They were forced into certain sexual practices with security agents at border posts, with some falling pregnant and contracting sexually transmitted diseases at an early age. It was also reported that smugglers sold these women. How did the State protect these women against smugglers and those involved in human trafficking? What measures and strategies had been implemented to protect children from practices, such as begging?

KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, asked what sanctions were handed down if the provisions of the Labour Code were violated? What efforts had the State party made to guarantee better assistance to unaccompanied and separated children?

MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, asked what was being done to ensure that the right of migrant workers to transfer social security benefits could be made effective? What measures had Niger taken to fill the protection gaps for the rights of migrant workers who came from the Economic Commission of West African States? Was it planned to sign bilateral agreements to bridge the protection gap? Could more information be provided about the joint teamwork made up of French, Spanish and Niger police to combat smugglers networks; was this work still ongoing? How did the team work in combatting these networks?

An Expert asked what specific measures had been taken to assist migrants impacted by climate change? Were there migrants in the various mining areas? What kind of support was provided to them?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Niger had established a human rights institution which had an A status, in line with the Paris Principles. The State tried to find foster families for unaccompanied children in local communities, and supported them. It could not be proven that women were forced into prostitution and to have sex with the defence forces. In 2023, measures were taken to sanction security forces and efforts were taken to prosecute any officer committing offences. In Niger, the Labour Code was clear; those working fell under the protection of the Labour Code regardless of nationality. Foreigners were protected by the Labour Code and if their rights were violated, there were remedies. There were labour inspectorates for anyone whose rights were violated, and the inspectors were swamped by complaints. All workers were aware of the inspectorate and did not hesitate to consult its members in the event of a violation of rights. There were also labour courts which workers could access, whether they were nationals or foreigners.

Closing Remarks

KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, thanked the delegation of Niger for the dialogue and for attempting to reply to the Committee’s questions. The candidacy of the delegation was appreciated.

MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the presence of the delegation made it clear that the Niger had the clear intention of advancing the rights of migrants. The State should continue to improve the situation for migrant workers in the country.

SABRINA GAHAR, Committee Expert and Co-Rapporteur, thanked the delegation for all the information provided and the interesting discussions had. The State’s report showed that Niger was committed to protecting the rights of migrant workers and their families. The initiatives showed best practices and strategies aimed at improving migrants’ situations. However, there was still a lot to do to guarantee that the rights of migrant workers and the members of their families were fully respected and protected.

ALIO DAOUDA, Minister of Justice and Human Rights of the Niger, Keeper of the Seals and head of the delegation, expressed gratitude for the attention given to the report and the efforts of the Niger to guarantee the basic rights of migrants and their families. The interactive dialogue was vital to building a society where human rights and equity were accessible to all, including migrant workers. The State acknowledged the remaining challenges, but would tackle them with conviction and would step up efforts to meet the provisions under the Convention. The Niger looked forward to the Committee’s concluding observations and recommendations. Mr. Daouda thanked all those who had made the dialogue possible.

___________

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CMW25.003E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Activities of Secretary-General in Geneva, 16-18 March

Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

On Sunday, 16 March, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Geneva, Switzerland, where he convened the two Cypriot leaders and the Guarantor Powers of Greece, Türkiye and the United Kingdom for an informal meeting on Cyprus at the United Nations Office in Geneva.

The meeting took place from 17 to 1 March and was held in the context of the Secretary-General’s good offices efforts on the Cyprus issue and as agreed with the two leaders on 15 October 2024.

The informal meeting was convened to provide an opportunity for a meaningful discussion on the way forward on the Cyprus issue. The United Nations remains committed to supporting the Cypriot leaders and all Cypriots.

On Monday evening, 17 March, the informal meeting began with a dinner hosted by the Secretary-General with the two Cypriot leaders and the Guarantor Powers of Greece, Türkiye and the United Kingdom.

Earlier in the day, the Secretary-General visited the construction site of the Portail des Nations, a new visitors centre currently under construction at the UN campus in Geneva. Built through a private donation from the Fondation Portail des Nations, the new facility will provide visitors with an interactive experience to learn about the UN’s work and it will enable UN colleagues in Geneva to better welcome visitors.

On Tuesday, 18 March, the Secretary-General held bilateral meetings with the two Cypriot leaders and the Guarantor Powers of Greece, Türkiye and the United Kingdom.

Immediately after the conclusion of the bilateral meetings, they held a plenary meeting at the Palais des Nations.

Following the conclusion of the informal meeting on Cyprus, the Secretary-Generalspoke to the press assembled at the Palais des Nations. He told reporters the discussions were held in a constructive atmosphere, with both sides showing clear commitment to making progress and continuing dialogue.

 The Secretary-General added that the leaders have agreed to a group of initiatives to build trust: opening four crossing points; demining; the creation of a technical committee on youth; initiatives on the environment and climate change, including the impacts on mining areas; solar energy in the buffer zone; and the restoration of cemeteries. 

Mr. Guterres said the leaders also agreed to hold another meeting in the same format at the end of July, as well as to the appointment of a Personal Envoy to prepare the next steps.

In answer to a question about the situation in Gaza, the Secretary-General said that unfortunately, that day, we witnessed a situation in which we had an intolerable level of suffering for the Palestinian people, with the air strikes that killed hundreds of people, and with the humanitarian aid still blocked.

He added that the role of the UN is to do everything to convince the parties and to have the international community pressing for three essential aspects. First, for the ceasefire to be fully respected. Second, for humanitarian aid to have access to Gaza in an unimpeded way. And third, for the unconditional release of hostages. And we will not, we will not give up on these objectives, he said.

Later that day, the Secretary-General left Geneva for Brussels, where he was scheduled to meet with European Union leaders.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Powering national financial instruments with Next Generation EU – 09-04-2025

Source: European Parliament

In the EU context, financial instruments represent measures for financial support provided from the EU budget – in addition to traditional grants – to address one or more specific EU policy objectives. While these instruments can take various forms, they are largely grouped into equity investments, loans or guarantees, and can be used in combination with grants. In policymaking, financial instruments are of great value, as they produce a leverage effect that unlocks public and – most importantly – private resources beyond the initially invested capital. Financial instruments can be set up at different levels of governance. The Next Generation EU (NGEU) recovery instrument, worth up to €712 billion, was set up to help Member States emerge more resilient from the pandemic while fostering the green and digital transitions. It does so through its main spending tool – the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) –in the form of grants and loans. Moreover, NGEU combines loans and grants, which maximises the value added of this EU policy response focused on recovery and resilience. Through the individual national recovery plans that Member States needed to develop to tap into the RRF, NGEU can finance, among other projects, investment and reform measures creating national financial instruments. These measures address – to a varying extent – the country-specific recommendations that are relevant to financial instruments. The six selected reform measures range from strengthening capital markets in Slovenia to adopting laws allowing the use of guaranteed loans to improve energy efficiency in Greece. The 13 chosen investment measures, amounting to roughly €13.9 billion, include equity growth instruments for businesses in Bulgaria, financial instruments for digital innovation in Latvia, and guarantees for student loans in France. Eight Member States have not introduced financial instrument measures in their recovery plans, since this is not a requirement. Experts emphasise that the RRF has led to the uptake of some financial instruments, particularly regarding energy efficiency, which was deemed a positive trend.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Netherlands: EIB Group and ABN AMRO to make over €1 billion available for Dutch businesses

Source: European Investment Bank

EIB Group and ABN AMRO sign synthetic securitisation agreement, enabling €1.2 billion in new lending for Dutch businesses, part of the new funding is earmarked for sustainable SMEs.

ABN AMRO Bank has entered into a risk sharing agreement with the EIB Group – consisting of the European Investment Fund (EIF) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) – on a portfolio of over €1 billion in existing loans to Dutch businesses originated by ABN AMRO. Under this synthetic securitisation transaction, a guarantee structure from the EIB Group reduces ABN AMRO’s credit risk exposure, freeing up capital for new lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Mid-Caps. The Dutch lender will thus be able provide over €1.2 billion in new financing at favourable rates to companies in the Netherlands. Part of the newly available financing is earmarked for environmental sustainability projects, supporting the transition to climate neutrality and a sustainable society.

With this ground-breaking transaction, the EIB Group and ABN AMRO build on their longstanding partnership to help Dutch business secure financing at competitive interest rates.

ABN AMRO Chief Commercial Officer Corporate Banking Dan Dorner: “We have a strategic goal to support SME’s and Mid-Caps. We are therefore delighted once again to be in a position to offer EIB financing to our clients. ABN AMRO and the EIB have partnered several years to provide financing to Dutch companies. The EIB offers favourable conditions for our clients. This transaction will support the economic growth of our clients and their transition to climate neutrality and boost the SME loans in the Dutch market.”

EIB Group vice-president Robert de Groot added: “We are proud to close this landmark deal, which is the largest securitisation transaction in EIB Group history. It is also our first collaboration of this kind with ABN AMRO, leveraging on the strong relationship between both banks. This partnership will significantly enhance the availability of financing for SMEs and Mid-Caps in the Netherlands, driving economic growth and job creation.”

Framework for financing

As part of their mission to support EU policy goals, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and European Investment Fund (EIF) work to enhance capital access for innovative companies in Europe and beyond. SMEs and mid-caps are a key part of the Dutch, European and global economy, creating jobs and driving economic development and innovation. Under the current partnership agreement with the EIB Group, ABN AMRO is able to offer Dutch borrowers a loan discount, subject to specific conditions. The final decision on lending activities under this facility rests with ABN AMRO.

Transaction details

This transaction is the first synthetic securitisation entered into between ABN AMRO and the EIB Group, referencing a portfolio of Dutch SME and corporate exposures and enables ABN AMRO to free up capital for new lending to Dutch SMEs and Mid-Caps, of which at least 30% will be allocated to projects aligned with criteria for climate action and environmental sustainability, highlighting the commitment of ABN AMRO and the EIB Group to support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Both EIB and EIF are involved in the transaction. The EIF is providing protection on the mezzanine tranche of €150 million and on the senior tranche of €835 million. The EIF’s mezzanine tranche exposure as well as part of the EIF’s senior tranche exposure is in turn counter-guaranteed by the EIB. The junior tranche is fully retained by ABN AMRO. Key features of the transaction include synthetic excess spread, a three-year revolving period and pro-rata amortisation of the senior and the mezzanine tranches, subject to performance triggers.

Background information

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. The Netherlands owns a 5,2% share of the EIB. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals and national priorities. More than 90% of its activity is in Europe. Over the last ten years, the EIB has made available more than €27 billion in financing for Dutch projects in various sectors, including research & development, sustainable mobility, drinking water, healthcare and SMEs. In 2024 the EIB Group, which also includes the EIB’s subsidiary, the European Investment Fund (EIF), made available more than €3 billion for Dutch projects.

The European Investment Fund (EIF) supports Europe’s micro, small and medium-sized enterprises by providing equity capital, loans and guarantees through a wide network of selected financial intermediaries. The EIF was established in 1994 and is active in all EU countries, prospective member countries, Liechtenstein and Norway. The majority shareholder of EIF is EIB and other shareholders include the European Commission and a range of European financial institutions.

ABN AMRO is a Dutch bank for retail, corporate and private banking clients, offering a full range of financial products and solutions. Our focus is on Northwest Europe. ABN AMRO’s purpose is Banking for better, for generations to come. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the bank serves over 5 million clients and employs more than 19,000 people. Please visit us at www.abnamro.com.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Violation of the principle of media freedom and pluralism by the government of Donald Tusk in Poland in relation to Telewizja Republika – E-001643/2024(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The Commission monitors the situation of media freedom and pluralism in all Member States in its annual Rule of Law Reports[1]. It takes into account the 2021 Recommendation on the Safety of Journalists[2] which recommended Member States to ensure that public authorities create transparent, fair and non-discriminatory conditions for journalists regarding access to press conferences and documents.

The Rule of Law Report is prepared in continuous dialogue with the 27 Member States and is based on a transparent methodology, developed in consultation with the Member States in full respect of the principles of equal treatment, impartiality and objectivity. It relies on a broad variety of sources.

As regards the country chapter for Poland of the 2023 Rule of Law Report[3], to which the Honourable Member refers, it briefly and factually mentions concerns raised about the case of Pablo González under the pillar of media freedom, without taking a position.

For more details, the Commission refers the Honourable Member to its answers to parliamentary questions E-001534/2024, E-001545/2024 and E-003062/2024.

[1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/upholding-rule-law/rule-law/annual-rule-law-cycle/2024-rule-law-report_en

[2] https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/dae/redirection/document/79357

[3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/b576c76e-0755-4690-9266-7895c4294433_en?filename=48_1_52627_coun_chap_poland_en.pdf
Last updated: 9 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Mandatory targets for corporate fleets – E-001328/2025
Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001328/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Alexandr Vondra (ECR), Ondřej Krutílek (ECR), Kosma Złotowski (ECR), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Ondřej Kovařík (PfE), Klara Dostalova (PfE), Aurelijus Veryga (ECR), Veronika Vrecionová (ECR), Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Miriam Lexmann (PPE), Stefano Cavedagna (ECR), Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR), Roman Haider (PfE), Pietro Fiocchi (ECR), Charlie Weimers (ECR), Dick Erixon (ECR), Beatrice Timgren (ECR), Adrian-George Axinia (ECR), Tomáš Kubín (PfE), Bogdan Rzońca (ECR), Kristoffer Storm (ECR), Milan Uhrík (ESN), Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI), Marlena Maląg (ECR), Anna Zalewska (ECR), Jaroslav Bžoch (PfE), Sebastian Tynkkynen (ECR), Filip Turek (PfE), Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE), Jadwiga Wiśniewska (ECR), Daniel Obajtek (ECR), Sander Smit (PPE), Elena Donazzan (ECR), Waldemar Tomaszewski (ECR), Engin Eroglu (Renew), Denis Nesci (ECR), Piotr Müller (ECR), Ivaylo Valchev (ECR), Christine Singer (Renew), Laurence Trochu (ECR), Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR), Diego Solier (ECR), Francesco Torselli (ECR), Marion Maréchal (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Jana Nagyová (PfE), Anna Maria Cisint (PfE), Petr Bystron (ESN)

The industrial action plan for the European automotive sector notes that the Commission ‘has started work on a legislative proposal to decarbonise corporate fleets, with the aim of setting out measures to support the uptake of zero-emission vehicles by corporate buyers, without putting unnecessary burden on small and medium-sized enterprises, and taking into account criteria on sustainability and resilience.’[1]

In its response to the public consultation on the future of the automotive industry of 13 February 2025, the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, representing Europe’s major carmakers, stated that ‘introducing mandatory EU-wide targets for corporate fleets for light-duty vehicles is not seen as appropriate to solve the problem of demand (…)’.[2]

Given that a free market economy has consistently proven to be the most effective driver of economic growth, and that any state or EU intervention often entails unintended negative consequences:
- 1.Does the Commission intend to introduce mandatory targets for electric vehicles in corporate fleets as part of its decarbonisation efforts?
- 2.Were mandatory targets discussed or requested by stakeholders, particularly representatives of the automotive industry, during the Strategic Dialogue?
Submitted: 1.4.2025
- [1] Commission communication of 5 March 2025 entitled ‘Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector’ COM(2025)0095).
- [2] https://www.acea.auto/files/ACEA_recommendations-Workstream_on_demand_and_infrastructure.pdf.
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Collective redundancies, violation of labour rights and collective bargaining agreements, and the implementation of Directive (EU) 2022/2041 in Poland – E-001349/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001349/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marlena Maląg (ECR)

According to information from the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy, collective redundancies involving nearly 15 000 employees were announced in the first two months of 2025 alone. These affect sectors in which Poland was the EU market leader, such as the furniture industry, as well as strategic state-owned companies and the transport sector. In many cases, there are also serious concerns about respect for workers’ rights and collective bargaining agreements. However, according to the current Directive (EU) 2022/2041, Member States are obliged to promote and strengthen collective bargaining agreements. According to several sources, only 10 to 15 per cent of employees in Poland are subject to collective bargaining agreements.

I therefore ask the Commission:

1.Is the Commission monitoring the increasing number of collective redundancies in Poland?

2.Does the Commission believe that a breach of the obligation to promote collective labour agreements pursuant to Directive (EU) 2022/2041 has occurred?

3.Following these redundancies, has the Commission received any applications concerning the possible provision of support to employees as part of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund?

Submitted: 2.4.2025
Last updated: 9 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Water infrastructure left inoperative due to delays in land consolidation and irrigation projects – E-001355/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001355/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D)

In the Greek regions of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (Rhodope) and Thessaly (Elassona) there are serious delays in the employment of integrated or fully developed water infrastructure. The absence of irrigation networks and land consolidation and the lack of administrative readiness results in the inertia of investments with a significant impact on development and the environment.

In the municipality of Rhodope, although work on the Iasio dam has been completed, it remains inoperative as the necessary irrigation network has not been built. Land consolidation in critical areas (Arriana, Likio, Evrinos) has been delayed by more than a decade, preventing water resources from being turned to account and rural development plans from leaving the drawing board. In the municipality of Elassona, the Agioneri dam project has been abandoned, despite comprehensive and approved studies existing since the 90s. The delay in completing/implementing such projects has a number of consequences: reduced agricultural productivity, loss of water resources and increased precariousness in the face of climate change.

In light of the above, can the Commission answer the following:

1.How does it monitor the progress and implementation of land improvement projects included in the CAP strategic plans for 2023-2027, especially in regions with delays and administrative difficulties?

2.Is it possible to provide technical assistance to Greece (through JASPERS, EIB Advisory) to boost administrative readiness and speed up the preparation of projects such as the Iasio dam and land consolidation in Rhodope and Thessaly?

3.Is it possible to enable flexibility or a targeted call under the Greek CAP strategic plan or other financial tools (RRF, Cohesion Fund), in order to integrate critical irrigation network and land consolidation infrastructure that remains inoperative, even though it is already partially completed?

Submitted: 2.4.2025
Last updated: 9 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Intimidation of journalists and media freedom in Hungary – E-000230/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The Commission is aware of the fact that journalists have been questioned by the Hungarian Constitution Protection Office.

The Commission monitor incidents involving journalists in all Member States in the framework of its annual Rule of Law Report, which covers all Member States, including Hungary. The next edition will be published in July 2025.

As of 8 August 2025, Article 4(3)(a) of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA)[1] will become applicable. The provision states that Member States shall ensure that journalistic sources and confidential communications are effectively protected. Member States shall not (…) oblige media service providers or their editorial staff to disclose information related to or capable of identifying journalistic sources or confidential communications or oblige any persons who, because of their regular or professional relationship with a media service provider or its editorial staff, might have such information to disclose it.

It is the objective of that and other safeguards in EMFA to ensure free and independent media across the EU and protect them against undue interference. The Commission will use all the tools at its disposal to ensure effective compliance with this provision across the EU.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32024R1083
Last updated: 9 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and UK hold 13th Economic and Financial Dialogue in London today

Source: Government of India

India and UK hold 13th Economic and Financial Dialogue in London today

India and UK reaffirm their commitment to continue collaboration in financial services sector, FinTech and Digital economy and between the respective regulatory bodies; collaboration at bilateral and multilateral fora to address mutual and global economic issues

13th EFD concludes with adoption of Joint Statement by Union Finance Minister of India and Chancellor of Exchequer of United Kingdom

Posted On: 09 APR 2025 8:46PM by PIB Delhi

The 13th Ministerial meeting of the India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue (13^th EFD) was held today at London. The Indian delegation, led by Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, held high-level discussions with the UK delegation led by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, The Rt. Hon. Rachel Reeves.

The Indian delegation comprised of the Finance Secretary, Chairman IFSCA, Whole Time Member from SEBI and other senior officers from Ministry of Finance and Indian High Commission in London. Governor RBI also attended the meeting in virtual mode. The UK delegation included the Governor of Bank of England, FCA CEO, Economic Secretary of Treasury, and senior officials from HM’s Treasury.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continue collaboration in financial services sector, FinTech and Digital economy and between the respective regulatory bodies; collaboration at bilateral and multilateral fora to address mutual and global economic issues including mobilising affordable finance and investment for low carbon economic growth, taxation matters and illicit financial flows.

Both sides welcomed the recent announcement of UK universities establishing campus in India, release of report of the India-UK Financial Partnership (IUKFP) on direct listing in IFSC GIFT City, launching of new private sector workstream on green finance, under the auspices of the IUKFP and other new areas of focus.

The 13^th EFD concluded with the adoption of the Joint Statement by Union Finance Minister of India and Chancellor of Exchequer of United Kingdom.

Annexure:

JOINT STATEMENT OF 13^TH INDIA-UK ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL DIALOGUE

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NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2120597) Visitor Counter : 188

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN SLOVAKIA; MEETS POLITICAL LEADERSHIP OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC; LEADS DELEGATION-LEVEL TALKS

Source: Government of India

PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN SLOVAKIA; MEETS POLITICAL LEADERSHIP OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC; LEADS DELEGATION-LEVEL TALKS

WITNESSES EXCHANGE OF TWO MoUs IN THE FIELDS OF MSMEs AND DIPLOMATIC TRAINING COOPERATION

Posted On: 09 APR 2025 9:05PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu reached Bratislava on the final leg of her State Visit to Portugal and the Slovak Republic. This is the first-ever visit by an Indian President to the Slovak Republic in 29 years. The Minister of State, Smt Nimuben Bambhaniya, and Members of Parliament Shri Dhaval Patel and Smt Sandhya Ray are also part of the accompanying delegation.

The President commenced her engagements with the visit to the Presidential Palace where the President of the Slovak Republic, H.E. Mr. Peter Pellegrini, warmly received her. She was extended a traditional Slovak welcome with bread and salt by a couple in folk dress and accorded a ceremonial welcome with the Guard of Honour.

Later, President Droupadi Murmu discussed various aspects of bilateral relations and issues of shared global and regional interests with President Peter Pellegrini of the Slovak Republic during one-to-one meeting and delegation-level talks. The President appreciated the personal commitment and initiative of President Pellegrini towards strengthening bilateral relations. She noted the rising popularity of Indian art and culture in Slovakia. She highlighted the immense potential for the two countries to collaborate more closely in the rapidly expanding media, entertainment and creative economy sectors of India, including promotion of Slovakia as a filming destination and a partner in joint film production. She invited Slovakia to take part actively in the upcoming WAVE Summit being hosted by India in Mumbai from May 1 to 4, 2025.

Both leaders witnessed the exchange of two MoUs, one on cooperation in the fields of MSMEs between NSIC and the Slovak Business Agency and another on diplomatic training cooperation between SSIFS and the Slovak Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

In the next engagement, President Droupadi Murmu met the Speaker of National Council of the Slovak Republic, H.E. Mr. Richard Raši. The President congratulated Mr. Raši on his recent election as Speaker and reaffirmed the high priority attached by India to the historic friendship between the two countries. She said that Parliamentarians have an important role in enhancing goodwill and mutual understanding between India and Slovakia. She noted that there has been a tradition of a Slovak-India Friendship Group in the National Council of Slovakia, and said that it would help promote the exchange of knowledge and experience among our Parliamentarians.

The President also met and held extensive discussions with the Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic, H.E. Mr Robert Fico. She stated that India greatly values our traditionally close and friendly ties with the Slovak Republic, based on shared values of democracy, rule of law and convergence of views on global issues. She also noted that there has been an increase in our engagements across sectors. The two leaders agreed to further diversify and strengthen bilateral relations in all areas of mutual interest.

Please click here to see the President’s speech –

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2120611) Visitor Counter : 60

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A strong step towards Ganga conservation: Key projects approved in the 61st Executive Committee meeting of NMCG

Source: Government of India

A strong step towards Ganga conservation: Key projects approved in the 61st Executive Committee meeting of NMCG

The 61st Executive Committee Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga, chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General NMCG

The meeting approves making DDA Biodiversity Parks as Knowledge cum-Skill Development Centre for National Mission for Clean Ganga

Executive Committee deliberates and sanctions sewerage projects of more than 900 Crore

Posted On: 09 APR 2025 3:39PM by PIB Delhi

In a decisive move to combat pollution and revive the lifeline of millions, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has taken another transformative step forward. The 61st Executive Committee (EC) Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General NMCG, has approved several major projects aimed at the conservation and rejuvenation of the Ganga River. These initiatives are in line with the mission’s goals of enhancing river cleanliness, promoting sustainable development, and preserving the environmental and cultural heritage of the Ganga. They mark a significant leap in enhancing river cleanliness, curbing pollution at its source, and safeguarding the rich ecological and cultural heritage that flows with the river’s timeless journey.

Executive Committee deliberated and sanctioned sewerage projects of more than 900 Crore. The Detailed Project Report related to interception, diversion, STP and other allied works in Moradabad town in U.P. Zone-3 and Zone-4 for “Prevention of Pollution in Ramganga River” was approved. This ambitious project, with an estimated cost of ₹409.93 crore, aims to make the Ramganga River pollution-free. Under the project, modern Sewage Treatment Plants with capacities of 15 MLD in Zone-3 and 65 MLD in Zone-4 will be constructed. Along with this, 5 major drains will be intercepted and diverted.

Another significant initiative for Arrah town in Bihar has been approved. This project is related to the interception, diversion, and construction of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), with an estimated cost of ₹328.29 crore. Under this project, a state-of-the-art STP with a capacity of 47 MLD will be constructed, along with the establishment of a 19.5 KM long sewer network. This scheme will be based on the Hybrid Annuity Model, which also includes operation and maintenance for 15 years. The aim of this initiative is not only to provide a permanent solution to the sewage problem of Ara city, but also to effectively reduce the level of pollution in the Ganga by purifying the untreated water falling into the river.

In the meeting, an important project related to the “Interception and Diversion of 14 Untapped Drains of Kanpur City, Uttar Pradesh” was approved at an estimated cost of ₹138.11 crore, which will give a new direction to the city’s drainage and sanitation system. Under this project, sewage falling directly into the river from drains will be intercepted and conveyed to treatment plants through proposed sewage pumping stations and manholes. This project will involve the interception of 14 major drains of the city.

The Executive Committee approved a significant initiative in Pujali Municipality of West Bengal under the Namami Gange programme. Under this project, an Integrated Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) was approved, with a total estimated cost of ₹5.96 crore. Under this project, a state-of-the-art 8 KLD capacity faecal sludge treatment plant will be set up, which will not only improve urban sanitation but also play a crucial role in maintaining the purity of water sources.

A major initiative approved in the meeting was a Nature Based Solution project with a focus of Yamuna rejuvenation in National Capital. EC approved the installation of pilot CAMUS-SBT (Continuous Advanced Mite Utilizing System – Soil-Based Treatment) plants for the treatment of liquid pollutants in the Shahdara drain, aiming to achieve water quality standards as prescribed by the NGT (National Green Tribunal). Under this project, CAMUS-SBT plants with capacities of 5 MLD will be installed.

To strengthen the research program of NMCG, EC approved the establishment of the NMCG-IIT Delhi-Dutch Collaboratory for Intelligent River Systems and Clean Yamuna (IND-RIVERS). This innovative initiative is launched under the India-Netherlands Water Strategic Partnership, aiming to build Centres of Excellence focused on critical areas like urban rivers and nature base solution. The centre is a unique combination of a premier academic institution, Government Department and an international partner to focus on action-oriented research and practical solution to the challenges faced in the area.

The Executive Committee also approved for study and documentation of traditional wooden boat-making craft thriving for centuries in the Ganga basin.

The meeting approved to make DDA Biodiversity Parks as Knowledge cum-Skill Development Centre for National Mission for Clean Ganga, Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. The project, with a total estimated cost of ₹8.64 crore. The initiative aims to develop Biodiversity Parks with Delhi’s Yamuna Biodiversity Park as a knowledge partner.

After the successful implementation of these initiatives, the efforts for the cleanliness and rejuvenation of the Ganga River and its tributaries will receive a new direction and momentum. These projects will not only help in pollution control and water conservation, but will also be milestones in preserving the riverine heritage and developing sustainable water management systems. Through these initiatives, ecological challenges associated with rivers can be addressed, ensuring a clean, healthy, and sustainable future for the communities dependent on them. This comprehensive effort is a strong and inspiring step towards making rivers life-giving once again.

The meeting was attended by Sh. Mahabir Prasad, Joint Secretary and Financial Advisor of Ministry of Power, (additional charge) River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti; Sh. Nalin Srivastava, Deputy Director General of NMCG; Sh. Anoop Kumar Srivastava, Executive Director (Technical); Sh. Brijendra Swaroop, Executive Director (Projects) Sh. S.P. Vashistha, Executive Director (Administration); Sh. Bhaskar Dasgupta, Executive Director (Finance); Ms. Nandini Ghosh, Project Director of West Bengal SPMG; Sh. Animesh Kumar Parashar, Managing Director of Bihar BUIDCO; and Sh. Prabhash Kumar, Additional Project Director of Uttar Pradesh SMCG.

***

Dhanya Sanal K

Director

(Release ID: 2120378) Visitor Counter : 60

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia: 9 April 2025
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

PM call with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia: 9 April 2025

The Prime Minister spoke to His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia earlier this afternoon.
The Prime Minister spoke to His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia earlier this afternoon.

The leaders started by discussing recent developments on global trade tariffs. The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to working closely with international partners to maintain global economic stability. He added that the UK will continue to take a measured and calm approach.

The leaders discussed the importance of strengthening economic partnerships to provide further certainty for businesses, and agreed to build on the good progress so far on the UK-GCC Free Trade Agreement.

Turning to defence, the leaders agreed to continue work to deepen defence and security co-operation.

They agreed to keep in touch.

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Published 9 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foreign Secretary David Lammy hosts energy firms and banks to discuss climate change
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Foreign Secretary David Lammy hosts energy firms and banks to discuss climate change

Government, industry, international organisations and institutions met in the Mattatoio, Rome, to discuss the global shift to clean power.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy joined forces with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to spearhead discussions with top British and Italian energy businesses, banks and international organisations in Rome today.

The Clean Power for Growth Roundtable took place against the historic backdrop of the Mattatoio in Rome, to galvanize global leadership and foster international cooperation on a clean energy transition, while unlocking clean growth, job opportunities and build robust clean energy supply chains, including for critical minerals.

Today’s meeting is supporting the government’s mission to become a clean energy superpower, protecting households from unstable fossil fuel markets and helping keep bills down for good, while at the same time unlocking job opportunities in the UK’s clean energy sector.

The high-profile event focused on the immense potential within the energy and financial sector to tackle climate change for the greater good of all and emphasise the urgent need for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts.

Senior representatives from the energy industry, finance, international organisations, and institutions from the UK and Italy attended the roundtable, including Centrica, Octopus Energy, the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Kings Trust International, the International Energy Agency, United Nations Development Programme, Barclays, Italian energy company Eni Plenitude and Milan based cable manufacturers Prysmian.

Today’s talks, moderated by the UK’s Special Representative for Climate, Rachel Kyte, addressed three core themes:

the need for responsible global clean power leadership

unlocking clean growth and jobs, particularly for young people in Africa

and action to build resilient clean power supply chains.

Foreign Secretary Lammy emphasised that a successful global clean power transition requires strong political leadership, international partnerships that deliver, a skilled workforce, and a robust supply chain.

The roundtable also highlighted the UK-Italy partnership on climate and energy, support for Italy’s G7 Energy for Growth in Africa Initiative and the UK’s leadership of the Global Clean Power Alliance. This collaboration aims to drive economic growth and jobs, create new business opportunities within the clean energy sector and establish energy systems that are more resilient.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

The UK and Italy are strengthening our partnership to unlock growth opportunities, create jobs and accelerate the global transition to clean, secure, affordable energy, as part of our government’s Plan for Change.

The shift to clean energy is a global challenge that requires us all – governments, energy businesses and the financial sector – to work together. Our talks in Rome are a key moment to unlock clean growth and build robust clean energy supply chains, including for critical minerals – for the benefit of us all.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said:

Energy is a key driver of growth for our businesses, our economies and our societies. Italy and the United Kingdom share common objectives with regard to the energy transition, which are also clearly outlined in our 2023 Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Cooperation: technological neutrality, achieving net zero emissions by 2050, phasing out coal for energy production and increasing the role of renewables and new technologies for the production of clean energy.

We actively cooperated for the success of the CoP 26 in Glasgow, launching a major project at the 2021 pre-CoP in Milan for the involvement of young people committed to the fight against climate change. We also share the vision that inspired many initiatives promoted by Italy during its presidency of the G7, especially with regard to access to energy in Africa, where we are actively engaged also through the Mattei Plan.

His Majesty The King and Italian President Mattarella attended the end of the session and were briefed on the roundtable discussion on global progress towards clean power.

Today’s roundtable comes ahead of the UK hosting the International Energy Agency Summit on the Future of Energy Security in London on 24-25 April, bringing together energy Ministers from across the world, and further highlighting the UK’s commitment to lead global efforts to put the energy transition at the heart of our approach to energy security.

Media enquiries

Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

Telephone 020 7008 3100

Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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Published 9 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding applications now open for community-focused projects in Edinburgh

Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

The City of Edinburgh Council is now accepting applications for its Community Grants Fund (CGF), offering grants of up to £5,000 to support community work in neighbourhoods across Edinburgh.

The Community Grants Fund (CGF) is a small grants scheme designed to empower local communities and support grassroots initiatives. Grants of up to £5,000 are available to constituted groups for community-based activities, with 13 local funds corresponding to different areas of the city. If you are part of a community group with a project in mind, you may be eligible to apply to your local fund.

The CGF has previously supported a variety of important projects, including the Grassmarket Community Cinema Project, bespoke driven bikes for North Edinburgh Dementia Care and a a community orchard group at Lauriston Farm – and your project could be next!

Councillor Val Walker, Culture and Communities Convener, said:

Community-driven projects have the power to transform neighbourhoods and improve lives. Our communities are the lifeblood of our city, and we are committed to ensuring they have the resources they need to turn their ideas into reality. The Community Grant Fund offers a valuable opportunity to make a meaningful impact. I’m excited to see the incredible projects that will emerge from this round of applications.

The deadline for applications is midnight on Wednesday, 30th April 2025.

All applications will be reviewed in June, and successful applicants will be notified soon after.

Quotes from past participants:

North Edinburgh Dementia Care (Craigentinny Duddingston)
Project: To trial a project getting older isolated people with a diagnosis of dementia out and about in the community using bespoke driven bikes.

Quote: “The grant has enabled us to work in partnership with Joy Rides to deliver an outdoor bike program to our service users, who have a diagnosis of dementia.
Service users enjoyed a ride on a trishaw which is a customised electric bike with a driver cycling from behind. Promoting their health & wellbeing and reducing isolation being outdoors in the fresh air, making them visible in their
own community. The project enabled people who were no longer able to cycle independently to feel the wind in their hair and the exhilaration of the travelling on a bike through beautiful areas, in a safe, secure and supported environment.” (quote from participant)

Grassmarket Community Project (City Centre)
Project: Funding to hire a cinema director and two projectionists part-time to continue their valuable work curating and delivering a weekly film programme for the Community Picture House.
Quotes: “In summary, the Grassmarket Community Picture House played a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of its attendees by providing social interaction, cultural enrichment, and access to support services. This initiative promoted positive social engagement, reduced isolation, and empowered individuals to build connections and grow within a supportive community environment.” (quote from participant)

Edinburgh Agroecology- Lauriston Farm (Almond)
Project: to develop a community orchard group
Quote: “The Orchard project is beneficial to the community on many levels. Not only is it an investment in future fruit production, it is also where the wider community, especially children, can learn so much about natural food sources
and the splendid variety of fruits. For the group directly involved, the orchard is a joyful space for creativity and learning about simple, natural and organic technologies. The collaboration and commitment of stalwart Orchard Group
Members combined with dedication of the directors of Lauriston Farm is second to none.” (quote from participant)

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: African Lion 25: Largest U.S.-led military exercise in Africa kicks off across four nations

Source: United States Army

1 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) fires live rounds during an air-to-ground rehearsal exercise in Ben Ghilouf, Tunisia May 09, 2024. African Lion 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. Africa Command’s premiere joint exercise led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), running from April 19 to May 31 across Morocco, Ghana, Senegal and Tunisia, with over 8,100 participants from 27 nations and NATO contingents. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Lukas Sparks) (Photo Credit: Spc. Lukas Sparks) VIEW ORIGINAL

2 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Paratroopers with 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 9th Psychological Operations Battalion, Utah National Guard, and 2e Brigade d’infanterie Parachutiste (2e BIP), Moroccan Royal Armed Forces, greet each other in the drop zone near Ben Guerir, Morocco, after a successful combined airborne operation during African Lion 2024 (AL24). AL24 marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. Africa Command’s premier joint exercise led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), running from April 19 to May 31 across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, with over 8,100 participants from 27 nations and NATO contingents. (Image by U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Nathaniel Free) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Nathaniel Free) VIEW ORIGINAL

3 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A remotely controlled Micro Tactical Ground Robot goes down a staircase in a tunnel operation during the culminating exercise at African Lion 2024 (AL24) near Tifnit, Morocco, May 27-28, 2024. The training featured subterranean warfare, psychological operations, building clearing, combined assaults, fast-rope insertion, rappelling, and hostage rescue during AL24, the U.S. Africa Command’s premier combined, joint exercise led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), running from April 19 to May 31 across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, with over 8,100 participants from 27 nations and NATO contingents. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jake Seawolf) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Jake SeaWolf) VIEW ORIGINAL

4 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Capt. Spencer Cline, a family medicine physician with the State Headquarters Medical Readiness Detachment (MRD), Utah National Guard, inspects the ear of a Moroccan patient during the humanitarian civic assistance mission as part of exercise African Lion 2024 (AL24) in Tata, Morocco, May 23, 2024. The Utah National Guard has been partners with Morocco through the Department of Defense State Partnership Program since 2003 and led the effort to partner with the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces for a humanitarian civic assistance (HCA) operation during African Lion 2024 (AL24). The HCA event enables U.S. military personnel to work with their Moroccan counterparts to provide medical services to civilian populations who may lack access to medical care, while improving the operational readiness of participating service members. AL24 marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. Africa Command’s premier joint exercise led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), running from April 19 to May 31 across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, with over 8,100 participants from 27 nations and NATO contingents. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Trevor Rapp) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Trevor Rapp) VIEW ORIGINAL

5 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Spc. Frances Burnett, a unit supply specialist assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New York Army National Guard, holds the battalion’s colors before a formation of all its Soldiers during exercise African Lion in Tantan, Morocco, May 30, 2024. African Lion 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. Africa Command’s premier joint exercise led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), running from April 19 to May 31 across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia, with over 9,100 participants from 27 nations and NATO contingents. (U.S. Army photo by Avery Schneider) (Photo Credit: Avery Schneider) VIEW ORIGINAL

6 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Soldiers and Marines pose for a group photo with Ghana Armed Forces soldiers after completing a civil military operations course during African Lion 2024 (AL24) in Tamale, Ghana, May 21, 2024. AL24 marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. Africa Command’s premier and largest annual combined, joint exercise. This year’s exercise is scheduled from April 29 to May 31 and is hosted across Morocco, Ghana, Senegal and Tunisia, with more than 8,100 participants from over 27 countries, including contingents from NATO. African Lion 24 aims to enhance readiness between the U.S. and partner nation forces. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Cade Castillo) (Photo Credit: Spc. Cade Castillo) VIEW ORIGINAL

7 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Justin Feese, maintenance advisor, and Staff Sgt. Devin Sasser, network communications systems specialist, both assigned to Maneuver Combat Advisor Team 2310, 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade (2nd SFAB), assemble a microwave satellite terminal to increase tactical communication to support exercise African Lion 2024 (AL24) in Dodji, Senegal, May 27, 2024. The 2nd SFAB provides critical advising in support of a joint team to build and test strategic readiness and ultimately deploy, fight and win in complex, multi-domain environments. Currently, Maneuver Combat Advisor Team 2310 is in Senegal as part of a 9-month employment rotation to advise the Armed Forces of Senegal [Forces armées du Sénégal] throughout the country and plays and integral role during AL24. AL24 marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. Africa Command’s premier joint exercise led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), running from April 19 to May 31 across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia, with over 8,100 participants from 27 nations and NATO contingents. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Sgt. 1st Class Nicholas J. De La Pena) (Photo Credit: Nicholas J. De La Pena) VIEW ORIGINAL

8 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – An Armed Forces of Senegal [Forces armées du Sénégal] soldier fires a M249 Squad Automatic Weapon while Maryland National Guardsman Sgt. Mathew Angell, a team leader with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 175th Infantry Regiment, serves as a range safety officer during a live-fire weapons familiarization led by U.S. Army Soldiers and members of the Royal Netherlands Army as part of exercise African Lion 2024 (AL24) in Dodji, Senegal, May 23, 2024. The weapons range provided an opportunity to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative readiness training in an austere environment. AL24 marks the 20th anniversary of U.S. Africa Command’s premier joint exercise led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), running from April 19 to May 31 across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, with over 8,100 participants from 27 nations and NATO contingents (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Sgt. 1st Class Nicholas J. De La Pena) (Photo Credit: Nicholas J. De La Pena) VIEW ORIGINAL

VICENZA, Italy – African Lion 25, U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, officially kicks off April 14, 2025, in Tunisia, with activities in Ghana, Senegal, and Morocco beginning in May. With more than 10,000 troops from over 40 nations—including seven NATO allies—this year’s iteration will be the largest in the exercise’s history.

Led by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), AL25 enhances interoperability, strengthens readiness, and builds strategic partnerships through realistic, multi-domain training. Exercises span land, air, maritime, space, and cyber domains, supporting the shared goal of increased security and stability on the continent.

“African Lion 25 is AFRICOM’s largest multinational, combined joint exercise in Africa. It demonstrates the capabilities of the total force by building strategic readiness and interoperability with our African partners and allies to deploy, fight, and win in a complex multi-domain environment,” said Maj. Gen. Andrew C. Gainey, commanding general, SETAF-AF.

Core events include field training exercises, airborne and amphibious operations, special operations forces, HIMARS rapid insertion (HIRAIN), humanitarian civic assistance, and medical readiness engagements. New capabilities being tested include integrated cyber defense training and next-generation systems such as the Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW).

Participating countries include Benin, Brazil, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Chad, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, France, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Kenya, Liberia, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Portugal, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Spain, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and United States. Observers include Algeria, Belgium, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, India, Qatar, Republic of Congo, and Turkey, reflecting broad interest in regional military cooperation.

African Lion began in 2004 and has evolved into the U.S. military’s most significant exercise on the continent. This year’s events reinforce the U.S. commitment to enduring partnerships and demonstrate our ability to respond to crises and deter threats by promoting peace through strength.

For media inquiries or to request interviews or embed opportunities, contact:

SETAF-AF Public Affairs: setaf_pao@army.mil

DVIDS Feature Page: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/AfricanLionEx

About African Lion

African Lion 25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward, and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, African Lion 25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach, and fosters innovative solutions.

About SETAF-AF

SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis-response options in Africa and Europe.

Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

MIL OSI USA News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Slams Vatican for Giving Xi Jinping “Green Light to Construct State-Approved, State-Controlled Catholic Churches”

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, criticized the Vatican for extending a deal that allowed Communist China to appoint Roman Catholic bishops. Ricketts made the following comments:

“Right now, our adversaries are hard at work to expand their influence in every region,” said Ricketts. “The Holy See is no exception. In 2018, the Vatican signed a provisional agreement to accept bishops appointed by Communist China, not the Vatican. Pope Francis has categorized the Vatican-China deal is ‘diplomacy in the art of what’s possible.’ I categorize this as being very dangerous. It sets a precedent for future relations with an adversarial nation.”

“Xi Jinping has given the green light to construct state-approved, state-controlled Catholic churches,” continued Ricketts. “This has severe implications for Catholics globally. Additionally, I fear this encouraged Communist China in its persecution of religious minorities and provides moral legitimacy, moral legitimacy for a repressive regime. In October, the Vatican just extended that agreement for the third time for four more years, defying requests from the first Trump administration to end that agreement.”

[embedded content]

Watch the video HERE

Ricketts made the comments in a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The hearing considered the nominations of Brian Burch to be U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, Nicole McGraw to be U.S. Ambassador to Croatia, and Brandon Judd to be U.S. Ambassador to Chile.

TRANSCRIPT:

“Senator Ricketts: “Right now, our adversaries are hard at work to expand their influence in every region.

“The Holy See is no exception.

“In 2018, the Vatican signed a provisional agreement to accept bishops appointed by Communist China, not the Vatican.

“Pope Francis has categorized the Vatican-China deal is diplomacy in the art of what’s possible.

“I categorize this as being very dangerous.

“It sets a precedent for future relations with an adversarial nation.

“Xi Jinping has given the green light to construct state-approved, state-controlled Catholic churches.

“This has severe implications for Catholics globally.

“Additionally, I fear this encouraged Communist China in its persecution of religious minorities and provides moral legitimacy, moral legitimacy for a repressive regime.

“In October, the Vatican just extended that agreement for the third time for four more years, defying requests from the first Trump administration to end that agreement.

“Mr. Burch, do you agree that the agreement represents a dangerous level of cooperation between the Catholic Church and Communist China?”

Mr. Burch: “Well, thank you, Senator again. Thank you for that kind introduction at the beginning. I agree that the relationship between the Holy See and China is of immense importance to the United States.

“As you point out, they did sign a provisional agreement in 2018 that they then renewed in 2024 that is primarily concerned with the appointment of bishops.

“This agreement is secret, so we do not know the contents of this agreement, because it is restricted to only the appointment of bishops, I think it’s important to maintain for the Holy See, to maintain a posture of pressure and of applying pressure to the Chinese government around their human rights abuses, particularly their persecution of religious minorities, including Catholics.

“When it comes to the question of the appointment of bishops, I would encourage the Holy See as the United States Ambassador, if I’m confirmed, to resist the idea that a foreign government has any role whatsoever in choosing the leadership of a private religious institution.

“I do not believe the church should cede or surrender to any government China or otherwise, the selection of their bishops.

“And I would hope and work with the Holy See to present that and to make that case, assist in that case with the Chinese.

“The other piece of this is important with respect to China, the Holy See maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan. I

“t is one of only 12 states to do so, and it is the only European state to maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

“I understand this to be extremely important, because, of course, China’s ambitions with Taiwan will likely be tempered by the posture of the rest of the world and the Holy See in maintaining this relationship with Taiwan, I think will serve as a point of hesitation and resistance, given the holy see’s moral authority and moral respect and global influence around the world, and I will insist, as the United States Ambassador, if I’m confirmed, the Holy See, maintain that strong relationship with Taiwan.”

Senator Ricketts: “Thank you, Mr. Burch.

“One of the things that I want to also get back to a little bit of talking about the aid, because you mentioned that the Catholic Church is responsible for aid being distributed around the world, and I think is one of the partners that works for the United States government.

“Isn’t that right? Through Catholic Relief Services in Caritas?”

Mr. Burch: “That’s correct.”

Senator Ricketts: “Yeah. And so my again, having been a prior donor to Catholic Relief service.

“You mentioned how effective they are. I think their administrative and overhead costs are less than 5% typically.

“Is that your understanding?”

Mr. Burch: “That is my understanding. Yes.”

Senator Ricketts: “And so when the State Department is reviewing some of the ways that we’re providing our foreign aid, some of the things, and maybe this is where the ranking member and I need to sit down and kind of go over the facts, but some of the stuff has been referenced as transgender operas in Peru, I believe, also voter turnout in India, DEI programs and other programs, my guess would be, and maybe you’re more familiar, that’s why I’m asking that when it comes to the Catholic Church, what CRS does, what Caritas does, they’re focusing primarily on the type of aid that is life saving, it’s not involved with transgender promotion, it’s not involved in voter turnout, it’s not involved in DEI would that be your understanding of the kind of aid that the Catholic Church, the CRS and Caritas does?”

Mr. Burch: “That is my understanding. It’s primarily focused on humanitarian aid, like disaster relief in Myanmar, for example, which I understand that great Grant was recently reauthorized.

“And then there’s human services side, which, of course, involves a lot of different things that at times, can or cannot be in the United States interest.

“To the ranking member’s question, I think, think this is where it becomes difficult, because you have to make choices as as the United States.

“Can we continue to fund any and all of these programs, or do we have to be selective?

“And if we’re going to be selective, what are the criteria we’re going to use?

“And I fully support the president and the secretary making sure that the dollars we spend, the money that the taxpayers pay into the into the federal government are aligned with the United States interests and will make us safer, stronger and more prosperous.”

Senator Ricketts: “And so by getting to the point of the aid, it would seem that the Catholic Church’s interest in providing aid really does align more with the types of aid of this administration with regard to those lifesaving services. Does that seem accurate?”

Mr. Burch: “I would agree. I think the Catholic Church can be one of the best partners of the United States.”

Senator Ricketts: “Great, thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Press freedom linked to greater financial stability, finds global study

Source: The Conversation – UK – By George Kladakis, Lecturer in Finance, University of St Andrews

Press freedom is widely considered to be a cornerstone of democracy. It brings accountability, transparency and access to reliable information.

But beyond its democratic role, press freedom is also a vital part of a stable economy. Research has shown that it acts as a kind of financial watchdog, ensuring balance and accuracy.

In doing so, an independent press strengthens the resilience of financial institutions. And our research suggests that higher levels of press freedom can also be linked to greater financial stability and lower “systemic risk” – where something bad happening at one company can trigger wider instability or even industry collapse – in the banking sector.

Using data from 47 countries, we found that an independent press brings greater scrutiny of banking executives. Another benefit is a better flow of information around the financial markets, making the whole system more efficient.

Countries with higher levels of press freedom are also more likely to foster corporate and political cultures that are free from the sort of corruption which could jeopardise the stability of the banking sector. All of these advantages are most pronounced during economic downturns or banking crises.

And even outside times of crisis, we can see the positive effects by looking at basic financial indicators in countries with high and low press freedom levels. Countries with consistently high levels of press freedom such as Norway, Sweden or Estonia, for example, have far fewer non-performing (unrepaid) loans than countries with low levels of press freedom such as Pakistan, Greece or Russia.

But a free press and a stable banking industry are by no means the norm.

Recent data from the campaign group Reporters Without Borders highlights a worrying decline in media autonomy. It reports that 135 out of 180 countries now have press freedom levels classified as “problematic”, “difficult” or “very serious”.

This trend extends to advanced economies such as Japan (70th, down from 68th in 2023), Italy (46th, down from 41st), and the US (55th, down from 45th).

And it looks like the world’s largest economy could slip down the rankings even further. Although President Trump signed an executive order aimed at “restoring freedom of speech”, he has also explicitly threatened to revoke broadcast licenses, investigate critical media and jail journalists who protect confidential sources.

In February 2025, White House officials even informed one US news agency that its journalists would be barred from entering the Oval Office until it stopped using the geographic term “Gulf of Mexico” instead of Trump’s preferred “Gulf of America”.

But the Trump effect is not limited to the US. A recent aid freeze by his administration has cut billions in funding for independent media outlets across more than 30 countries, including Ukraine, Afghanistan and Iran.

Press test

Notable declines in press freedom have also been observed in politically volatile regions such as Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and central Asia, where authoritarian regimes continue to tighten their grip on the media.

The survey from Reporters Without Borders suggests that governments across the world are failing to protect journalism, with a marked trend of declining press freedom.

In 2014, 13% of countries enjoyed a “good” degree of press freedom, but this figure dropped to 7% by 2021 and then to just 4.4% in 2022. Conversely, the share of countries in the lowest classifications has risen dramatically. A decade ago, 8% were considered “difficult”, now that figure is 24%. The number of those with a “very serious” situation has gone from 8% to 17% in the same period.

Read more:
White House spat with AP over ‘Gulf of America’ ignites fears for press freedom in second Trump era

Of course, there are outliers in the global picture. China, for example, has limited press freedom but a very stable banking sector that has been highly resilient to external shocks in the past. But the country is run by an authoritarian regime that helps to shield its banks from those kinds of risks.

Elsewhere though, the decline in press freedom threatens not just democratic principles and political transparency, but also the operation of financial markets. Safeguarding that freedom is a critical basis of economic resilience and stability.

The authors 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. Press freedom linked to greater financial stability, finds global study – https://theconversation.com/press-freedom-linked-to-greater-financial-stability-finds-global-study-248207

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government backs mayor to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Government backs mayor to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport

The South Yorkshire Mayor has announced a £30m devolved funding investment into reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport, in a major economic boost for the region.
Government backs South Yorkshire Mayor’s decision to invest £30m devolved funding in critical infrastructure to support the creation of a sustainable aviation hub, propelling regional prosperity and driving private investment into Yorkshire.

New working group met today to focus on airport re-opening – which could support 5,000 jobs and boost the economy by £5 billion by 2050, according to local estimates

Announcement comes as regions across the country agree shared priorities to turbocharge economic growth and employment, as part of the Plan for Change.

Millions of pounds of investment has been announced today by the South Yorkshire Mayor (Wednesday 9 April) to support the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA), with plans forecasted to support 5,000 jobs, boost the economy by £5bn and provide wider benefits of £2bn by 2050. 

The Airport has sat idle for years despite the potential to drive growth across the north. Today’s decision by the South Yorkshire mayor, backed by this government, would see the creation of a sustainable aviation hub in South Yorkshire to turbocharge economic growth in the region.

In a major boost for regional growth and example of devolution in action, today’s announcement will enable the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) to use their devolved funding to invest in the creation of a sustainable aviation hub.  

The government has confirmed it has established a working group with Doncaster Council and SYMCA to support local efforts to reopen the airport and explore how the project could unlock wider benefits in the region. The first meeting, bringing together South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, Aviation Minister Mike Kane, Doncaster Council and the government, has taken place today (Wednesday, 9 April).

Today’s boost for South Yorkshire comes as the Deputy Prime Minister agrees new shared priorities with mayors across the country focused on the opportunities and challenges to unlocking regional growth – a major step forward in the government’s pledge for each regional mayor to have their own Local Growth Plan.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

If we are to really grow our economy and put money into the pockets of working people, regional growth needs to be hardwired into the decisions that we make.

That’s why we have wasted no time in kick starting Local Growth Plans, owned by local leaders, and why, through our bold devolution plans, we can back our mayors and get opportunities for jobs and growth off the ground – just as they will with this thriving regional airport.

Previous governments stood by as Doncaster Sheffield Airport was closed by its owner despite the overwhelming support for it to stay open. It now sits idle despite the potential to drive jobs and growth across the north. I am delighted to work with City of Doncaster Council and the Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard to support their efforts to recreate South Yorkshire Airport City as a thriving regional airport.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: 

This Government will stop at nothing to fuel economic growth and deliver prosperity for people up and down the country, as part of our Plan for Change.

I’m thrilled to see devolved funding for South Yorkshire being used to revitalise the airport project, and boost the region as a whole, and I look forward to the first flights taking to the sky.

Mayor for South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard said:

This significant funding package, alongside the cross-departmental government working group we have now set up, is a vital signal of our shared commitment to our airport, to growth, to creating good jobs in our communities, and to the future of Doncaster and South Yorkshire.

Since day one, we have been fighting for our airport, so we can create good jobs in the industries of the future and play our part in developing the sustainable aviation technologies of tomorrow. To now have the support of a government who don’t just understand that opportunity but truly want to help us realise it, couldn’t be more important.

The new growth priorities agreed today will support mayors by tapping into government levers that can help their ambitions for their communities. Local plans will now help turbocharge regional economies, with shared priorities including:

Improving transport connectivity to create a green, integrated transport network in the North East

Increasing the skills base and reducing economic inactivity in West Yorkshire

Boosting the availability and affordability of homes in Liverpool

These plans will ensure a more strategic approach to regional growth over the long-term and align government policy better to grow and create a more future-facing economy with benefits that are felt across the country.

The shared priorities confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister today are the first stage of developing these major plans, with more work underway to shape them further. Mayors will now begin to finalise their own Local Growth Plans for publication later this year.

Further information 

The Mayor’s investment will be supported through South Yorkshire’s devolved funding, including SYMCAs Investment Fund and the new, flexible, long-term Integrated Settlement which will be implemented in SYMCA from 2026/27.

The new working group will meet monthly and will ensure that the path to local prosperity is being driven forward by those who know the region best.

Working group members:

South Yorkshire Mayoral Combine Authority

Doncaster Council

Department for Transport

HM Treasury

Ministry for Housing and Local Government

Office for Investment

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Updates to this page

Published 9 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 10, 2025

MIL-OSI: Completion of Societe Generale’s 872 million euros share buyback program for cancellation purpose

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

COMPLETION OF SOCIETE GENERALE’S 872 MILLION EUROS SHARE BUYBACK PROGRAM FOR CANCELLATION PURPOSE

Regulated Information

Paris, 9 April 2025

(In accordance with article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 on Market Abuse Regulation and article 3(3) of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 supplementing Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 through regulatory technical standards concerning the conditions applicable to buyback programs and stabilization measures)

Societe Generale announces the completion of its share buyback program for cancellation purpose, which began on 10 February 2025.

22,667,515 Societe Generale ordinary shares have been purchased for a total amount of 872 million euros and will later be cancelled.

The description and weekly information on the shares acquired in the context of this share buyback program are available on the Societe Generale website under the section Regulated Information and Other Important Information (societegenerale.com) and here below for the last buyback period.

The liquidity contract concluded with Rothschild has also temporarily been suspended throughout the buyback period.

Issuer name: Societe Generale – LEI O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41

Reference of the financial instrument: ISIN FR0000130809

Period: From 7 to 8 April 2025

Purchases performed by Societe Generale during the period

Aggregated presentation by day and market

Issuer name	Issuer code (LEI)	Transaction date	ISIN Code	Daily total volume (in number of shares)	Daily weighted average price of shares acquired	Platform
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	7-Apr-25	FR0000130809	1 026 774	33,0597	XPAR
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	7-Apr-25	FR0000130809	548 455	33,0694	CEUX
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	7-Apr-25	FR0000130809	79 250	33,0365	TQEX
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	7-Apr-25	FR0000130809	56 437	33,0179	AQEU
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	8-Apr-25	FR0000130809	903 223	35,2255	XPAR
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	8-Apr-25	FR0000130809	390 000	35,1024	CEUX
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	8-Apr-25	FR0000130809	55 000	34,8731	TQEX
SOCIETE GENERALE	O2RNE8IBXP4R0TD8PU41	8-Apr-25	FR0000130809	40 000	34,8287	AQEU
			TOTAL	3 099 139	34,0033

Press contacts:

Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com
Fanny Rouby_+33 1 57 29 11 12_ fanny.rouby@socgen.com

Societe Generale

Societe Generale is a top tier European Bank with around 119,000 employees serving more than 26 million clients in 62 countries across the world. We have been supporting the development of our economies for 160 years, providing our corporate, institutional, and individual clients with a wide array of value-added advisory and financial solutions. Our long-lasting and trusted relationships with the clients, our cutting-edge expertise, our unique innovation, our ESG capabilities and leading franchises are part of our DNA and serve our most essential objective – to deliver sustainable value creation for all our stakeholders.

The Group runs three complementary sets of businesses, embedding ESG offerings for all its clients:

French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance, with leading retail bank SG and insurance franchise, premium private banking services, and the leading digital bank BoursoBank.
Global Banking and Investor Solutions, a top tier wholesale bank offering tailored-made solutions with distinctive global leadership in equity derivatives, structured finance and ESG.
Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services, comprising well-established universal banks (in Czech Republic, Romania and several African countries), Ayvens (the new ALD I LeasePlan brand), a global player in sustainable mobility, as well as specialized financing activities.

Committed to building together with its clients a better and sustainable future, Societe Generale aims to be a leading partner in the environmental transition and sustainability overall. The Group is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

In case of doubt regarding the authenticity of this press release, please go to the end of the Group News page on societegenerale.com website where official Press Releases sent by Societe Generale can be certified using blockchain technology. A link will allow you to check the document’s legitimacy directly on the web page.

For more information, you can follow us on Twitter/X @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com.

Attachment

Societe-Generale-Report-on-share-buyback-from-7-to-8-April-2025

The MIL Network –

April 10, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Burke announces €17 million for innovative Cancer and neonatal treatments

Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

9th April 2025

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, and Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, today announced funding of €17 million for two additional projects under Call 7 of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF).

The announcement took place in the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT), Co. Dublin. NIBRT is a partner in the “Can-Vas” project which has been awarded €10.7m

This first of its kind in-human study treats infants with a type of brain damage, as well as expanding the pipeline of cell and gene therapies for rare and seriously debilitating diseases. NIBRT are working with three other partners on this project – Deantusaiocht Slainte HiTech Teoranta, University College Cork, INFANT Research Centre and the lead partner, HAON Life Sciences.

An additional project – LOTUS – has been awarded €6.4m which will develop a complete smart system to facilitate at-home anti-cancer treatment (SACT) with monitoring, enabling cancer patients to self-administer treatment in their own home. Representatives of the consortium comprised of Luminate Medical – the lead partner, Gentian Health, University of Galway and Trinity College Dublin were also in attendance at today’s event.

Announcing today’s projects, the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke said:

“I am delighted to announce awards of over €17 million to two exciting and hugely innovative projects under Call 7 of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund. These two projects demonstrate the importance of the fund in leveraging emerging technologies for the well-being of our citizens. The technology in these projects will provide life-changing solutions for patients undergoing cancer treatment and for new and expectant parents where the safety and well-being of their unborn child is paramount. By funding these projects, the Government is maintaining its commitment to investing in cutting-edge technologies, with consequent benefits for the health care sector and other national research priority areas.

Since the Fund launch in 2018, my Department has awarded over €393 million in funding to 107 collaborative DTIF projects. Importantly, the fund is giving enterprises and research institutions opportunities to engage and connect with some of the brightest minds in Ireland, to conceive ideas, build relationships and foster knowledge-sharing for the benefit of all.”

James Lawless, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science added:

“It is great to see projects with a strong potential to deliver impactful health care solutions becoming recipients of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund. We are now financing 404 project partners from our enterprise and research sectors which are bringing forward novel and innovative ideas that will not only benefit our health services but focus on tackling wider sectoral and economic challenges associated with demands emerging around developments with Artificial Intelligence, sustainability and digitalisation. What makes this Fund unique is its ability to foster collaborative research that builds strong relationships that will benefit our citizens, our economy and generating high quality jobs for our graduates.”

The projects announced today bring the total number awarded to 107. This is no small feat. It underscores the critical role of disruptive technologies, on a national scale, and recognises the Government’s continued commitment to advancing and supporting the development of these transformative and lifechanging technologies.”

Kevin Sherry, interim CEO, Enterprise Ireland said:

“Enterprise Ireland is proud to support the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, which continues to drive impactful collaborations between Ireland’s leading enterprises and research institutions. These newly funded projects exemplify the power of innovation in addressing critical healthcare challenges, from advancing cancer treatment solutions to pioneering life-saving therapies for newborns. By investing in cutting-edge technologies, we are strengthening Ireland’s position as a global leader in innovation, fostering high-value job creation, and delivering real-world benefits for patients and society. We look forward to seeing these transformative projects progress and make a lasting impact.”

DTIF Call 7 remains open for project applications which can be submitted at any time up to the closing date of 30 April 2025.

Note to Editors

The Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) is a €500 million fund established under the National Development Plan (NDP) in 2018. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment manages the DTIF with administrative support from Enterprise Ireland.

The purpose of the Fund is to drive collaboration between Ireland’s world-class research base and industry as well as facilitating enterprises to compete directly for funding in support of the development and adoption of these technologies. The aim is to support investment in the development and deployment of disruptive technologies and applications on a commercial basis.

DTIF Call 7 applications are assessed by panels of international experts against four criteria – quality of the disruptive technology, excellence of overall approach, economic impact and sustainability, and strength of the collaboration.

Since the Fund was launched in 2018, a total of 107 projects have been awarded funding of over €393m. The 404 project partners involved are operating in every region across the country, with 60% of those partners located outside of Dublin.

Prospective applicants can obtain detailed information on the Fund and on the application process through enterprise.gov.ie/DTIF.

Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) Call 7 Award Details

Project Description

Consortium Members

Research Priority Area

Regional Location

Total DTIF Award

Can-Vas Cell Therapy Platform: Unlocking life-changing treatments for neonatal brain injury

1. HAON Life Sciences

2. Deantusaiocht Slainte HiTech Teoranta

3. NIBRT

4. University College Cork (INFANT)

Health & Wellbeing

Dublin, Galway and Cork

€10.7m

A technology breakthrough to enable At Home cancer care in oncology patients

1. Luminate Medical

2. Gentian Health

3. University of Galway

4. Trinity College Dublin

Health & Wellbeing

Dublin, Clare and Galway

€6.4m

ENDS

Back to Department News

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 10, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted for fatal stabbing of mother at Notting Hill Carnival

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A man who was caught on camera stabbing a mother in front of her three-year old daughter at last year’s Notting Hill Carnival has been found guilty of murder.

Cher Maximen, who was 32, was with friends and her daughter just off the Carnival parade route on Sunday, 25 August 2024 when she was caught up in a fight involving multiple men. She was stabbed and died in hospital six days later.

On Wednesday, 9 April at the Old Bailey, Shakeil Thibou, 20 (29.05.04), of Masbro’ Road, Hammersmith and Fulham, was convicted of Cher’s murder, attempted GBH with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “My heart goes out to Cher’s family and friends. She was a loving mother who went to Notting Hill Carnival to enjoy what should have been a carefree day in the company of friends and her young daughter. Her life was ended in the most senseless way.

“In stark contrast, Shakeil Thibou went to Carnival not to be part of the celebration, but to engage in violence. Why else would he have arrived armed with a large knife and seeking confrontation?

“His reckless and dangerous actions took Cher’s life and narrowly avoided killing a second man too.

“The investigation team has worked diligently and tirelessly to build a case against him. Their work has made sure Cher’s family and friends have been able to get justice.

“They had to go through the pain of witnessing her final moments throughout the trial. I commend their bravery and the dignified way they have handled this tragedy. I hope that today’s result brings some small amount of closure for them.”

Vyleen Maximen, Cher’s grandmother, said: “Cher, my first born grandchild, my friend. I held you in my arms when you were born. 32 years of loving, of laughing, playing, crying and holidaying with you. I will no longer have that pleasure ever again. Not seeing you get married or have more children.

“Life will never be the same. Ever. We just have to live life, the best that we can and I will raise your daughter Cher, until my last breath. I will never hear your key opening my front door and shouting ‘Hello Nanny’.”

TJ Jacobs, relative of Cher and Godmother to Cher’s daughter, said: “We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the jury for helping ensure justice is served for our beloved Cher Maximen – affectionately known to us as Princess Cher, Ri Ri, Churbs, Churburt, Cher Bear and Bear.

“What happened to us has completely turned our lives upside down. Losing Cher has filled our hearts with immeasurable sadness.

“Cher was pure magic – radiant, loving, passionate, and kind. She brought creativity, style and flawless flair to everything she did. She was a dedicated mother, a devoted granddaughter, niece, sister, and friend. This senseless act of violence has cut short a life that had so much more to offer the world and was only just beginning to blossom. Like many young adults, life hadn’t always been easy for Cher, but she was just discovering who she was and who she could become.

“Even when life felt unfair, Cher remained kind, caring, and a fierce protector of those she loved – qualities that were evident even in her final moments. Her smile lit up every corner of every room, and her laugh echoed through hallways. Her journey was an example of resilience against the odds, showing that no matter the challenges, young people can emerge with strength, determination, and the will to strive for better.

“We will never recover from this loss, but we are determined to ensure that Cher’s daughter – now being raised by her beloved great-grandmother (Cher’s much-loved grandmother), along with her village of aunties, uncles, and Godparents – receives the love, support, and care she needs as we navigate life without her. Cher’s four-year-old daughter was her everything – her reason, her drive, and now her legacy. Cher’s unwavering devotion to her role as a mother was evident to all who knew her.

“Our family is devastated, but we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the emergency responders, medical professionals, and law enforcement officers involved in this case.

“Knife crime continues to devastate communities across the UK. The government must urgently address the root causes – the systemic failures in education, children’s services, youth services, mental health services impacting the many disengaged and disenfranchised young people. Offering them the tools to overcome challenges rather than fall victim to them. This is not just about reducing crime; it’s about saving lives, restoring hope, and building safer, stronger communities.”

The court heard that Cher had spent the afternoon with her daughter and her friends among a crowd in Golborne Road which was just off the parade route.

Just before 18:00hrs, a fight broke out in the crowd. CCTV and police officers’ body worn video footage shown during the trial shows Shakeil attempting to stab a man in the abdomen. Cher was caught up in the melee and knocked to the floor, grabbing onto Shakeil’s coat as she tried to get back to her feet.

In an effort to defend herself and her daughter, Cher kicked out and was stabbed in the groin as she did so, falling to the ground.

Officers rushed to her aid and provided emergency medical treatment until the arrival of paramedics. She was transported to hospital in a critical condition but despite the efforts of medical teams she died on Saturday, 31 August.

Video footage showed that moments before Cher was stabbed, Shakeil’s brothers – Sheldon Thibou and Shaeim Thibou, along with an unidentified male, fought with one man. Sheldon can be seen wielding an illegal stun gun. An officer who intervened to try to break up the fight was assaulted by both brothers.

The three brothers and an associate fled the scene, but CCTV footage recovered during the investigation showed that Shakeil, when leaving carnival was captured on CCTV changing his outer clothing with an associate and calmly making his way out of the area.

An investigation started immediately after the incident, with officers running images captured on bodyworn video cameras through facial recognition software, revealing a match for Sheldon and Shaeim Thibou. Further research identified Shakeil.

A significant manhunt was launched which saw officers search a number of addresses across west London.

Shakeil was found lying on the floor under a sleeping bag when officers found him in the early hours of Tuesday, 27 August. During a search of the address they found a distinctive bag he’d been seen wearing on footage captured at Carnival.

His jacket had been discarded at the scene after it came off in the struggle. It was sent for forensic testing and DNA found on it was a 1 in a billion match for Shakeil – further proof that he had committed the stabbing.

Detectives would also spend weeks trawling through hundreds of additional hours of CCTV and body worn video footage, as well as messages on mobile phones recovered at the time of the brothers’ arrest.

This helped to further establish a watertight case that Shakeil and his brothers were at Carnival at the time of Cher’s murder.

Sheldon Thibou, 25 (23.01.00), of Star Road, Hammersmith and Fulham and Shaeim Thibou, 22 (20.02.03), of Charleville Road, Hammersmith and Fulham stood trial alongside their brother.

Sheldon was found guilty of violent disorder. He had also previously pleaded guilty to the possession of an illegal stun gun.

Sheldon and Shaeim were both found guilty of assaulting an emergency worker. 

Shakeil and Shaeim will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 16 May.

Sheldon will be sentenced in due course at a court that is yet to be confirmed.

TJ Jacobs and Vyleen Maximen added:

“We would also like to say a special thank you to:

“Police officers Alex Gammampila, Charlotte Carter, Andy Miller, Kevin Newton, Dan Hobbs and Dave Davies.

“Emma Currie and Peter Hutton from the Crown Prosecution Service.

“Prosecuting Counsel Edward Brown KC and Phillip McGhee.

“Sharon Macaulay, Ravandeep Khela and Wendy Rixon from Taylor Rose Solicitors.

“Barrister Oliver Wooding from St John’s Chambers.

“Gulizar Candemir from the Children’s Team at Freeman Solicitors.

“Barrister Alison Brooks from Staple Inn Chambers.

“These individuals have supported us tirelessly throughout this unimaginable experience. Their efforts and dedication have been a source of comfort during this dark and painful time.”

MIL Security OSI –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fishing for Litter: KIMO UK
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Case study

Fishing for Litter: KIMO UK

Supporting the fishing industry in removing litter from the sea while promoting sustainable waste management practices.
Key facts

Applicant name: KIMO UK

Location: England-wide (including South West, North England)

Type of project: Marine litter removal, improving sustainability and waste management

Project value: £265,367

Grant value: £199,025

Date awarded: 2021 – 2023

Project details

Fishing for Litter is a voluntary initiative that engages the fishing industry in reducing marine litter while raising awareness of its environmental and economic impacts. The scheme, run by KIMO UK, enables fishers to collect litter at sea and dispose of it responsibly at participating ports and harbours.

The project received funding from the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS), allowing it to expand its impact by increasing available storage at ports, recruiting additional fishing vessels, and extending the initiative to more locations across the UK coastline. The funding has ensured the continuation of this initiative, which has been active for 18 years in the southwest of England, preventing thousands of tonnes of waste from polluting marine environments.

Project outcomes

Over 350 tonnes of marine litter collected since the project’s inception.

Enabled the continuation and expansion of the Fishing for Litter project, benefiting the fishing industry, the marine environment, and local coastal economies.

The inclusion of 57 new fishing vessels around England, with participation continuing to grow.

35 harbours across England now designated as drop-off points for collected litter.

Engaging with local communities and schools to promote environmental awareness and sustainable fishing practices.

Alignment with national and international marine conservation targets, including the OSPAR Regional Action Plan for Marine Litter, which aims for a 100% increase in participating vessels in the OSPAR area.

Recognition in Defra’s evaluation of the Fishing for Litter Scheme as the leading initiative for fishers to remove marine litter from UK waters.

Julia Cant a representative from KIMO UK, said:

“Thanks to FaSS funding, we’ve been able to expand our Fishing for Litter scheme and reach more fishers across the country. This initiative has not only helped remove significant amounts of litter from our seas but also strengthened the fishing industry’s role in marine conservation.”

Learn More

Find out more about KIMO UK and the Fishing for Litter project.

View more case studies here: Fisheries and Seafood Scheme: Selected case studies

Updates to this page

Published 9 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Changes to Beryl bike Plymouth operation

Source: City of Plymouth

Beryl will be consolidating its operation in Plymouth, focussing on more popular locations in the city centre, the south west of the city, including Mutley, Central Park and Keyham.

The scheme was launched in 2023 as part of Connect Plymouth, a Council initiative funded by the Department of Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund. The scheme was designed to encourage people to take greener, more sustainable ways to travel about the city, with a focus on better connecting with existing public travel including buses, trains, ferries, walking and cycling routes.

Since its launch there have been 27,773 users of the e-bikes and over 213,000 journeys taken. The data from the bikes show that the average ride is 1.4 miles and 15 minutes long, with the most popular areas, by far, being the city centre and the south west of Plymouth, as well as Derriford and St Budeaux – key transport points.

The 450 e-bikes in the scheme will now be concentrated into the areas where they are best used, with the docking locations outside this removed.

Beryl informed users with a message sent on their app on Tuesday 8 April.

Councillor Mark Coker, cabinet member for transport said: “This was a business decision made by Beryl based purely on the amount of use e-bikes have in various areas.

“In the two years that the e-bikes have been available in Plymouth, it is clear that while they are very popular in some areas, such as the city centre, they are simply not being used as much as we would all like in other areas.

“It makes sense to concentrate the available e-bikes where they are far more popular and convenient for short, sharp journeys.”

We do not yet have dates of when the docking bays will be removed, Beryl users are advised to check the Beryl app for updates.

The list of docking stations to be moved from Plymouth are:

Marjon University and Sports Centre

Southway Centre

Whitleigh Green

Manadon Sports Hub

Poole Farm

Fort Austin

Mount Batten

Hooe Green

Plymstock Library

Elburton Road

Plympton Victoria RFC

Coypool Park and Ride

YMCA Plymouth

Honicknowle Green

Beacon Park Road

Eggbuckland Road

Higher Compton

Consort Village

Saltram

The Beacon

Torr Lane Supermarket

Ridgeway

Cross Hill

Tamar Bridge

Uxbridge Drive

John Bull Building

Oreston Slipway

Chaddlewood

Glen Road

Leigham

Elm Community Centre

Crownhill Village

West Park

Southway Drive

Clittaford Road

Hele’s School

Haye Road South

Pomphlett Roundabout

Mannamead Road

Estover Road

Sherford Sports Centre

Broxton Drive

Wyndham Square

Saltram Meadow Cycle Way

Tamar Community Centre

UHP Bush Park

Goosewell Road

Compton Avenue

Segrave Road Stores

Tothill Park

Alpha Way

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Join these fun, free workshops and be part of something huge for Leicester!

Source: City of Leicester

[embedded content]

FREE workshops for children aged 9+ and their families are taking place in Leicester over the Easter holidays, giving people the chance to be part of something really big!

From Easter Monday (21 April) until Friday 25 April, celebrated visual artist Olivier Grossetête will be creating an enormous cardboard reconstruction of the entrance to Leicester’s Roman forum for the city’s Old Town Festival – and he needs your help.

Olivier will lead a series of free workshops at the Highcross shopping centre, running from 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm each day. The drop-in workshops take place in the former Topshop unit on the lower mall of the centre.

No experience is needed, just lots of enthusiasm! Workshop participants can help Olivier to make the arches, balconies and roofs required for the giant structure.

People of any age are then invited to drop in to the Old Town Festival at Jubilee Square on Saturday 26 April to help the artist tape the cardboard sections together – returning on Sunday 27 April to take part in the artwork’s dramatic dismantling.

The design for Leicester’s cardboard Roman forum

Destroying a structure in Newcastle! Image: TyneSight

Assistant city mayor for leisure and culture Cllr Vi Dempster said: “The Old Town Festival is a new event for 2025, bringing together our traditional St George’s Day celebrations and Leicester’s rich 2,000-year history and Roman heritage.

“Ahead of the festival on the 26^th and 27^th April, we’re really pleased to be offering these free workshops. They’re a great chance for families who are out and about in Leicester over the Easter holidays to do something free and creative together, as well as learning more about the city’s fascinating Roman history.”

Michelle Menezes, centre director at Highcross Leicester, said: “We’re delighted to be playing host to the Old Town Festival workshops here at Highcross. Help us bring history to life as we aim to rebuild a full-scale Roman monument – right in the heart of Leicester – across a series of free workshops, each led by Olivier Grossetête, who is known for his impressive cardboard constructions. We’ll travel back in time together to relive what life was like in the shadow of a Roman forum.”

Graham Callister, head of festivals and events at Leicester City Council said: “With your help, we’ll rebuild the grand entrance to the Roman Forum as it may have looked in the 2nd and 3rd centuries. This monumental and unique project combines history, art, and community spirit.

“Over five days, there will be 10 hands-on workshops at the Highcross Shopping Centre. Then, on Saturday 26 April, participants and passers-by will come together to assemble the structure at Jubilee Square, the site of the original Roman Forum. The following day, Sunday, 27 April, festival-goers will help bring the project to a dramatic close by dismantling it. We’re inviting everyone to get involved!”

Centring on Jubilee Square and the Old Town area of the city centre, the free Old Town Festival on 26 & 27 April will also feature an urban mosaic workshop at the Guildhall, a living history Roman camp, an artisan craft market and themed storytelling aboard the children’s bookbus.

Hands-on archaeology, Roman theatre, craft activities and Morris dancing will also be on offer, along with face-painting and a dress-up booth so that young festival-goers can become gallant knights, fearsome dragons or magical maidens!

A fire-breathing dragon will be on the loose in Cathedral Gardens, alongside stilt-walking jesters, magical wizards and a trio of clumsy knights taking on daring quests. Over at Jubilee Square, you can take part in Roman warrior training, where you can learn to march like a legionnaire, wield a sword like a true centurion, or raise a shield to victory.

The Haymarket shopping centre will also be hosting a day of free fun on Thursday 24 April, with a dragon on the loose, mosaic and toga making, and fun arts and craft activities.

Support for the Old Town festival has come from the council’s partners BID Leicester, Global Streets, Arts Council England, Highcross Leicester, Haymarket Shopping Centre and Hidden Histories.

Simon Jenner from BID Leicester said: “The Old Town Festival is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Leicester’s rich history while bringing exciting, free experiences to the city centre. Events like this create a real buzz, attracting visitors and benefiting local businesses. The festival will shine a spotlight on the city’s Roman past, with an incredible recreation of Leicester’s historic Roman Forum by renowned artist Olivier Grossetête, built entirely from cardboard with the help of the public. We’re proud to support a festival that brings our heritage to life in such an engaging and interactive way.”

You can drop in to the workshops, or fill in the form to reserve your free space: https://bit.ly/4j0LAvI

To find out more, see www.visitleicester.info

Watch the video above to see one of Olivier’s constructions taking shape at the Galway International Arts Festival in Ireland.

Festival brochures are available from the Visit Leicester information centre, within the KRIII Visitor Centre at 4A St Martins, Leicester, LE1 5DB.

ENDS

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian National Indicted for Role in Romance Scam and Money Laundering Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Defendant allegedly tricked a Massachusetts resident into wiring more than $2.5 million abroad

BOSTON – A Nigerian national has been charged for his alleged role in allegedly stealing more than $2.5 million from six romance scam victims and transferring their money to cryptocurrency accounts that he controlled.

Charles Uchenna Nwadavid, 34, of Abuja, Nigeria, was arrested on April 7, 2025 after arriving on a flight from the United Kingdom to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. In January 2024, a federal grand jury in Boston indicted Nwadavid on charges of mail fraud and money laundering. Nwadavid appeared in federal court in Fort Worth, Texas on April 8, 2025 and was detained pending further proceedings. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.

According to the charging documents, “romance scams” recruit victims through advertisements for online relationships on dating or social media websites. Individuals perpetuating romance scams create fictitious profiles and then use them to gain victims’ trust through a purported romantic relationship. Perpetrators then direct their victims to send money or to conduct financial transactions involving other victims’ money under false pretenses, such as an urgent need for money to secure a multi-million dollar inheritance or to pay for an unexpected hospitalization.

Between in or about 2016 and September 2019, Nwadavid allegedly participated in romance scams that tricked victims into sending money abroad. In an effort to conceal his role as the recipient of the victims’ funds, Nwadavid allegedly used a victim from Massachusetts (Victim 1) to receive funds from five other victims around the United States. Nwadavid then allegedly tricked Victim 1 in to passing her own and the other victims’ money to him through cryptocurrency transactions, and allegedly accessed accounts in Victim 1’s name from overseas, to transfer the victims’ funds to accounts he controlled at LocalBitcoins, an online cryptocurrency platform.

The mail fraud charge provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the loss to the victim, restitution and forfeiture. The money laundering charges provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the laundering transactions, restitution and forfeiture. The defendant will also be subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie A. Queenin of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Clean Power for Growth roundtable, April 2025: UK-Italy bilateral statement
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Press release

Clean Power for Growth roundtable, April 2025: UK-Italy bilateral statement

The Clean Power for Growth roundtable took place at the Mattatoio in Rome on 9 April 2025.
The Rt Hon. David Lammy, UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, and the Italian Vice-President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, co-chaired a roundtable in Rome today focused on clean power for growth, in the presence of His Majesty The King and the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella.

Today, in the presence of His Majesty The King and of the President of the Italian Republic, we discussed the efforts of Italy and the UK to drive forward work on clean power for growth. We reiterated the commitments made in the Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Cooperation signed by the UK and Italy in April 2023, and the Joint Statement between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the President of the Council of Ministers Giorgia Meloni in September 2024. We emphasised the importance for affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, in supporting sustainable inclusive growth and development.

Energy security, accessibility, sustainability and affordability is important now and for future generations. We must embrace the opportunities we have to diversify energy systems, with all the benefits they bring. We recognise the important progress that Italy led during its G7 Presidency and through its Mattei Plan for Africa, and the UK’s new Global Clean Power Alliance. We will continue to promote this approach globally and through the International Energy Agency Summit on the Future of Energy Security in London.

We underline our commitment, in the context of a global effort, to accelerate the phase-out of unabated fossil fuels to achieve net zero in energy systems by 2050 at the latest, reaching Paris Agreement goals and COP28 Global Stocktake outcomes. We recognise that in a complex and changing geopolitical context, energy security, affordability and independence have become a priority. In this scenario, we underline that energy security is strongly linked to the energy transition and reiterate the need to take advantage of all decarbonisation solutions and technologies, while recognising different national pathways. We will work together to accelerate all opportunities offered by the transition to clean energy, including stimulating economic growth, unlocking new innovations, maximising clean alternatives and nature-based solutions, and creating new skills and jobs, to establish energy systems that are more resilient. This provides the most effective route to ensuring energy security and energy affordability, whilst also delivering long-term prosperity. We will demonstrate clean power leadership through the G7, G20, UN General Assembly, COP30 and beyond.

We are committed to working together on the challenges now and in the future around clean energy supply chain resilience and to promoting just, secure, sustainable and inclusive energy transitions. Both the UK and Italy are pushing economic growth opportunities through our vibrant clean energy industrial bases, recognising that new partnerships on clean power supply chains will be essential in supporting this. This is why Italy and the UK will work together on this agenda. We also recognise the need to support Africa’s ambitions and efforts to develop adequate clean energy infrastructure and supply chains, in a spirit of equitable and strategic partnerships. We welcome the partnerships forged between UK and Italian energy companies. We are committed to deepening these further.

Read more: Clean Power for Growth roundtable: Chair’s summary.

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Published 9 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 10, 2025

Category: European Union

German universities: A lesson

USSR and fascist Italy suffer similar fate

History’s warning

PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN SLOVAKIA; MEETS POLITICAL LEADERSHIP OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC; LEADS DELEGATION-LEVEL TALKSWITNESSES EXCHANGE OF TWO MoUs IN THE FIELDS OF MSMEs AND DIPLOMATIC TRAINING COOPERATION

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PM call with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia: 9 April 2025

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Foreign Secretary David Lammy hosts energy firms and banks to discuss climate change

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Press test

Government backs mayor to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:

Mayor for South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard said:

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Fishing for Litter: KIMO UK

Key facts

Project details

Project outcomes

Julia Cant a representative from KIMO UK, said:

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Clean Power for Growth roundtable, April 2025: UK-Italy bilateral statement

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PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN SLOVAKIA; MEETS POLITICAL LEADERSHIP OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC; LEADS DELEGATION-LEVEL TALKS

WITNESSES EXCHANGE OF TWO MoUs IN THE FIELDS OF MSMEs AND DIPLOMATIC TRAINING COOPERATION

A strong step towards Ganga conservation: Key projects approved in the 61st Executive Committee meeting of NMCG

The 61st Executive Committee Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga, chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General NMCG

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: 