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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Global: How a new wave of fighter jets could transform aerial combat

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Bacci, Senior Research Fellow, Oxford Thermofluids Laboratory, University of Oxford

    The most advanced fighter jets in the world are known as “fifth generation”. They contain technologies developed in the first part of the 21st century. Examples of fifth generation fighter jets include America’s F-35 Lightning II and F-22 Raptor, China’s Chengdu J-20 and Russia’s Sukhoi SU-57.

    Now, however, nations are moving ahead with the sixth generation of combat jets. In the past few months, China has flown its J36 and J50 prototype jets. Meanwhile, the US has selected Boeing to build a new fighter aircraft called the F-47.

    As with previous generations, the sixth will incorporate major advances in aircraft design, onboard electronics (avionics) and weapon systems.

    But how will the new generation of jets stand out from the previous one? Future combat jets will not see dramatic increases in maximum speed, nor in flight performance. Instead, the true innovations will be in how these systems operate and achieve dominance in aerial combat.

    Like the fifth generation, the sixth will be dominated by stealth technology. This helps fighters jets to reduce their chances of being detected by infrared and radar sensors, to the point that when their signatures are eventually picked up, the opponent has no time to act.

    Stealth is achieved through particular shapes of airframe (such as diamond shapes) and coatings on the aircraft – called radar absorbing materials. The airframe is the fundamental structural framework of an aircraft, encompassing the fuselage, wings, tail assembly and landing gear.

    The diamond-like shapes that already characterise fifth generation jets are likely to remain in the upcoming generation of fighter, but they will evolve.

    A common feature we’re likely to see is the reduction or complete removal of vertical tails at the back of the aircraft and their control surfaces. In current aircraft, these tails provide directional stability and control in flight, allowing the aircraft to maintain its course and manoeuvre.

    However, sixth generation jets could achieve this control with the help of thrust vectoring – the ability to manipulate the direction of engines and therefore the direction of thrust (the force that moves the jet through the air).

    The role of vertical tails could also be partially replaced by devices called fluidic actuators. These apply forces to the the wing by blowing high speed and high pressure air on different parts of it.

    F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft. Vertical tails can be seen at the rear of this fifth generation jet.
    US Air Force / Paul Holcomb

    The removal of the vertical tails would contribute to the fighter’s stealth. The new generation of fighters is also likely to see the use of novel radar absorbing materials with advanced capabilities.

    We’ll see the introduction of what are known as adaptive cycle engines on sixth generation fighters. These engines will feature what’s known as a three stream design, which refers to the airstreams blowing through the engine. Current jets have two airstreams: one that passes through the core of the engine, and another that bypasses the core.

    The development of a third stream provides an extra source of air flow to increase the engine’s fuel efficiency and performance. This will allow both the capability to cruise efficiently at supersonic speed and deliver a high thrust during combat.

    It is likely that China and the US will build two separate fighters with different airframes. One will have a bigger airframe, designed for use in an area like the Pacific Ocean region. Here, the ability to fly further and carry a heavier payload will be key, because of the distances involved. Airframes designed for this region will therefore be larger.

    Another fighter jet carrying a smaller airframe will be designed for use in areas such as Europe where agility and manoeuvrability will be more important.

    The next wave of jets will have a system in the cockpit that gathers lots of information from other aircraft, ground surveillance stations and satellites. It would then integrate this data to give an enhanced situational awareness to the pilot. This system would also able to actively jam enemy sensors.

    Another key feature will be the deployment of unmanned combat aerial vehicles (Ucavs), a form of drone aircraft. The piloted fighter jet would be able to control a variety of Ucavs, ranging from loyal wingmen to cheaper, unpiloted fighter jets that will assist the mission, including protecting the piloted fighter.

    This will all be the responsibility of something called the advanced digital cockpit, a software-driven system that will use virtual reality and allow the pilot to effectively become a battle manager. Artificial intelligence (AI) will be a key feature of the support systems for the drones. This will allow them to be controlled with complete autonomy. The pilot will assign the main task – such as, “attack that enemy jet in that sector” – and the system will carry out the mission without any further input.

    Another advancement will be the weapon systems, with the adoption of missiles that not only will be capable of travelling at hypersonic speeds, but will also incorporate stealth features. This will further reduce the reaction times of enemy forces. Directed energy weapons systems, such as laser weapons, could potentially appear in later stages, as this technology is under study.

    Under America’s sixth generation fighter programme, the US Navy is working on a separate jet called the F/A-XX, complementing the F-47.

    The UK, Italy and Japan are also working on a jet project known as the global combat air programme (GCAP). This will replace the Eurofighter Typhoon in service with the UK and Italy and the Mitsubishi F-2 in service with Japan.

    Germany, Spain and France are working on a fighter programme called the future combat air system (FCAS). This could supersede Germany and Spain’s Typhoons and France’s Rafale.

    The path for sixth generation fighter jets seems to have already been traced, but uncertainties remain. The feasibility of some of the characteristics described and development times and costs are not yet well defined. This interval of time was more than ten years for fifth generation fighter jets – and the sixth is going to be far more complex in terms of requirements and capability.

    A new generation of fighter jet is expected to remain on active duty for something like 30 years. But warfare across the world evolves rapidly. It is unclear whether the design requirements we are fixing today remain relevant over the coming years.

    David Bacci is affiliated with Cranfeild Defence & Security (CRanfield University) – Visiting Research Fellow

    – ref. How a new wave of fighter jets could transform aerial combat – https://theconversation.com/how-a-new-wave-of-fighter-jets-could-transform-aerial-combat-252949

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dundee University: 700 staff cuts will pile further crisis upon institution

    Source: Scottish Greens

    31 Mar 2025 Education

    Dundee’s staff and students deserve much better.

    More in Education

    The announcement that Dundee University will be axing 700 jobs – over a fifth of its workforce – will pile further crisis on the institution while betraying staff and students, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.

    This follows reports that, in a letter to a Holyrood committee, interim principal Professor Shane O’Neill confirmed that around 700 roles will be affected.

    This month Ms Chapman was elected as the new Rector of the University, supported by students who back her calls for greater transparency and accountability at the institution. She will take up this voluntary role from 1 August 2025.

    Ms Chapman said:

    “This is even worse than many of us expected. It is a shocking act of vandalism that will pile further crisis on the institution. 

    “The sense of betrayal will be felt by staff and students all across the campus and beyond. And of course, this number doesn’t reflect the over 200 vacancies that currently exist and won’t be filled.

    “The university has been brought to the brink by years of mismanagement, incompetence and poor decisions from a senior management team that has failed to listen or to engage with those around them.

    “The crisis has exposed a total lack of transparency and accountability. If these cuts are allowed to go ahead they will deal a crushing blow to the campus and to the university’s reputation.

    “I stand with the workers, trade unions and students who make Dundee University the great institution it is. They deserve dignity, security, and real long term solutions, not even more pain and instability.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Atlantic Petroleum -Financial Calendar 2025 update – new date for Annual report and AGM

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, 2025-03-31 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — P/F Atlantic Petroleum (NASDAQ OMX: ATLA DKK) hereby announces an update to the financial calendar for 2025:

    Referring to press release released earlier today.

    The annual accounts for 2024 which in the financial calendar were scheduled to be issued on 31st March 2025 are now, pending a debt solution, scheduled to be issued 30th April 2025

    The Annual General Metting which in the financial calendar was scheduled to be held on 30th April 2025 is now scheduled to be held on 23rd May 2025.

    Updated Financial Calendar

    • Wednesday 30th April: Annual Accounts 2024 to be issued.
    • Friday 23rd May: Annual General Meeting.
    • Friday 30th May: 1st Quarter 2025 Condensed Consolidated Interim Report to be issued.
    • Friday 29th August: 2nd Quarter 2025 Condensed Consolidated Interim Report to be issued.
    • Friday 28th November: 3rd Quarter 2025 Condensed Consolidated Interim Report to be issued.

    Atlantic Petroleum in brief:

    Atlantic Petroleum participates in oil and gas joint ventures with reputable, international partners. Atlantic Petroleum P/F is based in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, and the Company has subsidiaries and offices in the UK and Ireland. Atlantic Petroleum’s shares are listed on NASDAQ OMX Copenhagen.

    Further Details:

    Further details can be obtained from Mark T. Højgaard, (markh@petroleum.fo). This announcement will be available, together with other information about Atlantic Petroleum, on the Company’s website: www.petroleum.fo.

    Announcement no.2/2025

    Issued 31-03-2025

    P/F Atlantic Petroleum
    Lucas Debesargøta 8
    P.O. Box 1228
    FO-110 Tórshavn
    Faroe Islands

    Website: www.petroleum.fo

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Atlantic Petroleum provides update on debt situation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, 2025-03-31 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — P/F Atlantic Petroleum (NASDAQ OMX: ATLA DKK) provides update on debt situation.

    Referring to the press release issued 30/12-2024 concerning debt negotiations, Atlantic Petroleum has not been able to come to an agreement with its main creditors.

    Negotiations are in the final stages, but it is not certain that an acceptable solution will be achieved within the timeframe available. If no debt solution is achieved, the Group is unable to continue as a going concern.

    A final update on debt will be issued by 4th April, at the latest.

    The annual accounts for 2024 will be postponed. Pending a debt solution over the next days, the annual accounts for 2024 will be released on the 30th April.

    Atlantic Petroleum in brief:

    Atlantic Petroleum participates in oil and gas joint ventures with reputable, international partners. Atlantic Petroleum P/F is based in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, and the Company currently has subsidiaries in the UK and Ireland. Atlantic Petroleum’s shares are listed on NASDAQ OMX Copenhagen.

    Further Details:

    Further details can be obtained from Mark T. Højgaard, (markh@petroleum.fo). This announcement will be available, together with other information about Atlantic Petroleum, on the Company’s website: www.petroleum.fo.

    Announcement no.: 1/2025

    Issued: 31-03-2025

    P/F Atlantic Petroleum
    Lucas Debesargøta 8
    P.O.Box 1228
    FO-110 Torshavn
    Faroe Islands

    Website: www.petroleum.fo

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro today with visionOS 2.4

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple Intelligence comes to Apple Vision Pro today with visionOS 2.4

    March 31, 2025

    UPDATE

    Apple Intelligence and new spatial experiences come to Apple Vision Pro today with visionOS 2.4

    Alongside the first set of powerful Apple Intelligence features, users can discover new content with Spatial Gallery and the Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone, and share the magic of spatial computing with enhancements to Guest User

    visionOS 2.4 is available today, bringing the first set of powerful Apple Intelligence features that help users communicate, write, and express themselves on Apple Vision Pro — all while taking an extraordinary step forward for privacy in AI.1 With the new Spatial Gallery app, users have access to a curated collection of spatial content spanning art, culture, nature, sports, and more. visionOS 2.4 also introduces the Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone to help users easily find new content and apps, and enhancements to Guest User make sharing Vision Pro experiences even easier.

    Apple Intelligence on Apple Vision Pro

    With Writing Tools, users can refine their words by rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text nearly everywhere they write, including Mail, Notes, and many third-party apps. With Rewrite, users can adjust the tone of their text to make it more friendly, professional, or concise, or specify the change they’d like to make using Describe Your Change. Proofread checks grammar, word choice, and sentence structure, and provides suggested edits. Users can also select text and have it recapped in several formats with Summarize. With Compose, users can ask ChatGPT to generate content for anything they are writing about from the systemwide Writing Tools.2

    Image Playground allows users to easily create fun and unique images from themes, costumes, accessories, and places. Users can add their own text descriptions, and can even create images in the likeness of a family member or friend using photos from their photo library. The experience is integrated directly into apps like Messages and Freeform, and is also available as a dedicated app for Apple Vision Pro.

    Apple Intelligence takes emoji to an entirely new level, offering users the ability to create original Genmoji by simply typing or speaking a description into the emoji keyboard. Genmoji can be added inline to messages, shared as a sticker, or sent as a Tapback.

    Smart Reply in Messages and Mail provides suggestions for a quick response, and will identify questions to ensure everything is answered.

    With natural language search in the Photos app, it’s even easier to find a specific photo or moment in a video just by describing it. Create a Memory Movie lets users create the movies they want to see by simply typing a description. Using language and image understanding, Apple Intelligence will pick out photos and videos based on a user’s description, craft a storyline with chapters based on themes identified from the photos, and arrange them into a movie with its own narrative arc. As with all Apple Intelligence features, user photos and videos are kept private, and are not shared with Apple or anyone else.

    visionOS 2.4 also includes support for Priority Messages in Mail, Mail Summaries, Image Wand in Notes, Priority Notifications in Notification Center, and Notification Summaries. The initial set of Apple Intelligence features is available in visionOS 2.4 for users with their device and Siri language set to U.S. English.

    Apple Intelligence uses on-device processing whenever possible to protect users’ privacy. For requests that require access to even larger models, Private Cloud Compute extends the privacy and security of Apple products into the cloud to unlock even more intelligence. When using Private Cloud Compute, users’ data is never stored or shared with Apple; it is used only to fulfill the request. Independent experts can inspect the code that runs on Apple silicon servers to continuously verify this privacy promise, and are already doing so.

    Curated Spatial Content with Spatial Gallery

    Spatial Gallery, a new app for Apple Vision Pro, features spatial photos, spatial videos, and panoramas curated by Apple, and gives users a window to captivating and powerful moments spanning art, culture, entertainment, lifestyle, nature, sports, and travel, with new content released regularly.

    At launch, users can discover stories and experiences from iconic brands including Red Bull, Cirque du Soleil, and Porsche; go behind the scenes with Apple Originals like Severance, The Studio, and The Morning Show; and listen to conversations with top artists like Bad Bunny, Charli xcx, and Keith Urban.

    The Apple Vision Pro App for iPhone

    The Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone offers a new way for users to discover new spatial experiences, queue apps and games to download, easily find tips, and quickly access information about their Vision Pro, all from their iPhone.

    The Discover page features recommendations for new and notable experiences on Apple Vision Pro, from popular apps like Explore POV and JigSpace, to Apple Arcade games like Gears & Goo, to Apple Immersive experiences like Metallica, which gives viewers unprecedented access to the band through a remarkable storytelling format only possible on Vision Pro.

    The My Vision Pro page helps users get the most out of their Apple Vision Pro, offering tips and key information such as their current visionOS version and device serial number. Users with vision correction needs can now store and view the App Clip code for their ZEISS Optical Inserts in the Apple Vision Pro app.

    New Enhancements to Guest User

    visionOS 2.4 lets users start a Guest User session on Apple Vision Pro with their nearby iPhone or iPad. To make it easier to guide a guest through the Vision Pro experience, users can now choose which apps are accessible to their guests and start View Mirroring with AirPlay from their iPhone.

    New Apple Immersive Video Content

    VIP: Yankee Stadium premieres this Friday, April 4, featuring an all-encompassing look at how elite athletes, die-hard fans, dedicated staff, and epic moments make the Bronx ballpark legendary. Bono: Stories of Surrender pulls back the curtain on the deeply personal experiences that have shaped Bono as a son, father, husband, activist, and U2 frontman. The groundbreaking film from Apple TV+ premieres May 30, and will be available in 2D and in Apple Immersive Video.

    Availability

    • visionOS 2.4 is available today as a free software update for Apple Vision Pro. For more information, visit apple.com/visionos/visionos-2. Some features may not be available in all regions or languages.
    • Apple Vision Pro is available in Australia, Canada, China mainland, Hong Kong, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, the UAE, the UK, and the U.S.
    • Apple Intelligence will be available in beta on Apple Vision Pro with visionOS 2.4. The first set of features will be available for Vision Pro users with their device and Siri language set to U.S. English. Feature availability varies by region; Apple Intelligence is subject to regulatory approval and not yet available in China.
    • The Spatial Gallery app will be installed with visionOS 2.4 for users in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, the UAE, the UK, and the U.S. It can be downloaded from the App Store for Vision Pro.
    • The Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone will be available with iOS 18.4. The app will be available to download from the App Store, and will automatically appear on a user’s iPhone once they update to iOS 18.4 and have both devices associated with the same Apple Account.
    1. The first set of features will be available for Apple Vision Pro users with their device and Siri language set to U.S. English.
    2. Integration with ChatGPT is available only in regions where the ChatGPT app and service is available. Refer to Open AI for Chat GPT availability.

    Press Contacts

    Corey Nord

    Apple

    cnord2@apple.com

    Andrea Schubert

    Apple

    a_schubert@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Burke welcomes EU proposals for cutting red tape and simplifying the obligations on business in relation to corporate sustainability

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

    31st March 2025

    The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has welcomed proposals by the European Commission to introduce significant changes to the requirements for companies to report on corporate sustainability matters. 

    The proposals by the Commission will remove approximately 80% of companies from the scope of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), focusing the sustainability reporting obligations on the largest companies which are more likely to have the biggest impacts on people and the environment. For large companies, who are the main category currently within the scope of the CSRD, the Omnibus proposal would restrict the application of the requirements to only those companies having 1,000 employees, as opposed to 250 employees under the current law. The proposed changes will also ensure that sustainability reporting requirements on large companies do not burden smaller companies in their value chains. Further, the “Stop the Clock” proposal would also postpone by two years the reporting requirements for companies currently within the scope of CSRD and which are required to report for the first time in 2026 or 2027. 

     Minister Burke will shortly be amending the existing Irish legislation governing CSRD to further clarify and reduce the scope of companies covered, with the Minister also focussed on quickly implementing the EU’s ‘Stop the Clock’ proposal together with the changes proposed by the wider Omnibus, once these are adopted at EU level, thereby delivering certainty for business at all levels in Ireland.

    The proposed amendments to the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) which was due to come into effect by July 2026, will be postponed by a year and will significantly reduce the compliance requirements on effected businesses.  

    Minister Burke said:

    “While the core principle of the EU’s original corporate sustainability reporting regime was well-founded in the context of the EU’s Green Deal, the level of administrative burden associated with the original CSRD was excessive, both for large companies and especially for small and medium companies.

    I strongly support the simplification and burden reduction agenda that is being led by President von der Leyen at European level, to maximise the competitiveness of businesses in the EU in the evolving global trading environment. These proposed changes will of course significantly help enterprise in Ireland, and most of all our SMEs.

    I will be supporting the Commission’s proposed changes at EU level, and I will be advocating for them to be agreed at the earliest opportunity, to give business the legal certainty that it needs, and so that I can prioritise implementing the changes as soon as possible in Ireland.”

    Notes for Editors 

    The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (EU) 2022/2464 (CSRD) was the EU’s response to the global reframing of company reporting to include environmental, social and governance matters. It entered into force in January 2023 and arises from the European Green Deal and the EU Action Plan for Financing Sustainable Growth. The aim of the CSRD was to harmonise the EU rules for sustainability reporting by companies and to put this on the same footing as financial reporting, giving investors and other stakeholders access to information to assess investment risks arising from climate change and other sustainability issues. 

    The CSRD was transposed, on time, in Ireland on 5 July 2024 by S.I. No. 336/2024 – European Union (Corporate Sustainability Reporting) Regulations 2024. A small number of technical clarificatory amendments were required, and the Minister signed a short amending instrument on 1 October 2024, S.I. 498/2024.

    The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (EU) 2024/1760 (CSDDD) places legal obligations on companies within scope to address the adverse environmental and human rights impacts arising from their operations. Companies must conduct risk-based human rights and environmental due diligence to identify actual or potential adverse impacts and prevent / mitigate / minimise the extent of such impacts. Companies are also required to adopt a climate transition plan. The Directive is currently due to be given effect at Member State level by July 2026.

    ENDS

    Back to Department News

    Back to Top

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Joly to attend NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Belgium

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 31, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development, today announced that she will be travelling to Brussels, Belgium, to attend the NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting from April 3 to 4, 2025.

    In Brussels, she will meet with Allies and partners to discuss threats and challenges to Euro-Atlantic security.

    During the meeting, the foreign ministers will also mark NATO’s 76th anniversary and celebrate decades of cooperation and historic achievements in security. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Jackson condemns Trump’s attack on diversity in Europe

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

    As a member of the United States Congress and a lifelong advocate for civil rights and social justice, I strongly condemn the recent attempts by the U.S. administration to impose restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within European companies. These heavy-handed and misguided actions—threatening legal consequences for European firms that promote workplace inclusion—are not only a diplomatic affront but also an unlawful overreach that undermines global progress toward equality.

    It is particularly disturbing to see these efforts unfold in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which reaffirmed that diversity is a compelling interest of the United States government, particularly in our military and other institutions vital to national security. The decision recognized that diversity strengthens our armed forces, ensuring cohesion, readiness, and operational success. If DEI is essential to the strength of our military—the very institution charged with defending American democracy—then the same principles hold true across all sectors of our society and economy.

    The current administration’s attempt to dismantle DEI programs through executive fiat contradicts established legal precedent and violates federal anti-discrimination laws. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination, and dismantling DEI initiatives aimed at ensuring compliance with these laws is, in itself, unlawful. These efforts are not just politically motivated; they are legally indefensible.

    France’s forceful rejection of this overreach is commendable. French Foreign Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin and Gender Equality Minister Aurore Bergé have made it clear that their nation will not bow to pressure that runs counter to their values of inclusion and equal opportunity. The United States should take a lesson from its allies rather than attempt to export regressive policies that undermine human rights and economic advancement.

    Let me be clear: attacks on DEI initiatives are not just attacks on progressive ideals—they are attacks on the very legal foundations of equal opportunity in the United States and abroad. These policies are not just moral imperatives; they are legal obligations. I call on my colleagues in Congress, the business community, and international leaders to resist these unlawful and counterproductive efforts. We must ensure that America leads by example in championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, rather than engaging in reckless policies that harm our standing in the world and violate our own laws.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM meeting with President Stubb of Finland: 31 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Press release

    PM meeting with President Stubb of Finland: 31 March 2025

    The Prime Minister welcomed the President of Finland Alexander Stubb to Downing Street this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister welcomed the President of Finland Alexander Stubb to Downing Street this afternoon.

    They discussed the successful Coalition of the Willing meeting in Paris last week, noting the strong momentum from European leaders to keep Ukraine in the fight and increase the pressure on Putin to agree a peace deal.

    The Prime Minister then updated the President on his ongoing work to strengthen the UK’s relationship with the European Union across a number of areas including defence and security, trade and economic growth. The President warmly welcomed the progress made so far.

    As fellow NATO and JEF members, they agreed that the UK and Finland share a close and unique partnership which they will continue working to strengthen in the coming months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building Skilled Leaders for the Future: Insights from CMI Communities Live – Birmingham

    Source: Arden University

    Last week, Arden University proudly partnered with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) to host CMI Communities Live – Birmingham, an event focused on the evolving skills landscape and how businesses can futureproof their workforce.

    This inspiring event welcomed HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, patron of the CMI, alongside influential industry leaders who shared their expertise on leadership, professional development, and workforce investment. The discussions were led by Ann Francke OBE, CEO of the Chartered Management Institute, and featured key insights from a distinguished panel, including:

    • Professor Carl Lygo, Vice Chancellor & Chief Executive at Arden University
    • Professor Dilshad Sheikh CBME CMgr CCMI, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor & Provost at Arden University
    • Dr Heather Melville OBE CMgr CCMI, Partner at Stork & May

    The Key Takeaways: Leadership, Development, and the Future of Work

    The panel discussion, backed by findings from CMI’s latest study Walking the Walk, explored several key areas vital for today’s leaders and aspiring managers:

    • The Evolving Leadership Skillset – The workplace is changing rapidly, and modern managers need a diverse skill set to drive success. The discussion highlighted how confidence, empathy, and expertise are essential traits for effective leadership.
    • Career Development Strategies – As industries evolve, upskilling and reskilling have become more critical than ever. The panel explored practical ways professionals can enhance their career prospects and remain competitive in the job market.
    • The Employer’s Perspective – Business leaders shared insights on how investing in workforce development leads to a strong pipeline of future-ready talent. Supporting employees’ professional growth isn’t just good for individuals—it strengthens entire organisations.
    • The Value of Chartered Manager Status – Earning professional accreditation, such as Chartered Manager status, was highlighted as a way to boost credibility and stand out in a competitive job market.

    Strong Leadership Builds Stronger Businesses

    Ann Francke OBE, CEO, Chartered Management Institute, emphasised the importance of skilled leadership:

    “Strong, skilled leadership is the backbone of a thriving economy and inclusive workplaces. As the world of work evolves, businesses must invest in developing managers who are equipped to lead with confidence, empathy, and expertise. At CMI, we are committed to ensuring that managers at every level have the tools and training they need to succeed, because when leadership thrives, businesses and communities do too.”

    At Arden University, we

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Culture in the Park a great success – despite the weather!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Even the weather couldn’t put a dampener on the Culture in the Park event last Saturday in Solitude Park, Banbridge with families coming out to enjoy some time together, to watch the fantastic acts on stage, get involved in the various activities and, of course, indulge in some yummy food!

    The photos tell the story of the evening – can you spot yourself?

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further investment in York’s city centre

    Source: City of York

    York’s historic city centre is set to be ready for the next, and future, millennia.

    With funding from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the council and its partners will reimagine the city centre and develop a ‘city centre spatial plan’ (known as Reimagining York Streets, to tell a new story about the city centre). 

    The plan will identify investment opportunities, development and improvements and will better connect the city centre with change taking place in different locations, such as Coney Street, York Central and the Minster Neighbourhood Plan.

    Reimagining York Streets will align with ‘Our City Centre vision’ which describes an ambitious future for the city centre, with residents and businesses at the heart of it. The vision for ‘a vibrant city centre, which a wide range of people want to spend time in across the day and night, will create the right conditions for responsive businesses to grow and adapt, for city living to develop, and for cultural and social activity to flourish’ will be become a reality through the Reimagining York Streets plan.

    Councillor Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Economy and Culture said:

    “We are incredibly proud of our city centre which is already recognised the world over, bucking trends across the country with more visitors and higher shop occupancy than the national and regional average.  York’s strong and vibrant independent business sector is at the heart of our local economy and this, together with the outstanding festivals and events and beautiful built heritage make the city centre a unique, and much loved, national treasure.

    We are determined to make the city centre the best place it can be for residents and businesses as well as the millions of visitors who are welcomed here every year.

    “This new plan, Reimagining York’s Streets, aims to bring economic benefits which will benefit everyone across the city with more skilled jobs, investment, travel and leisure opportunities.

    “In the coming months we will start in-depth engagement with residents, businesses and visitors to make sure the city centre is an even better place we can all be proud of, and we want to hear as many voices as possible!”

    David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

    “York’s city centre is the heart of our region’s economy, culture, and heritage.

    “I was pleased to support the Reimagining York Streets plan through the Mayoral Investment Fund, investing in the future and ensuring our city centre remains a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

    By working together with the community, we can shape a city centre that is not only beautiful and welcoming but also future-ready.”

    In October 2024 at the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority Committee Meeting, £430k funding from the Mayoral Investment Fund was approved to develop a public realm improvement strategy for city centre public spaces, delivery strategy and identified pipeline of capital regeneration projects.

    An officer delegated decision has been made which will start work on developing this strategy. This will include a citywide engagement process to hear from a range of voices as to what they want from the public spaces in York city centre.

    Further announcements will be made in the coming months, including details of how everyone can have their say and help shape this plan.

    To keep up to date with developments, register for the council’s e-newsletter at www.york.gov.uk/EmailUpdates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Victim of fatal Morden collision named as detectives continue to appeal for information

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for witnesses following a fatal collision in Morden earlier this month.

    Specialist officers from the Met have been supporting the man’s family at this difficult time and are now seeking the public’s help as part of enquiries.

    Police were called at 18:51hrs on Monday, 3 March to reports of a road traffic collision between a car and a pedestrian in Green Lane, Morden.

    Despite the efforts of the London Ambulance Service and officers, the pedestrian, a 49-year-old man, sadly died at the scene.

    He has been formally identified as Sinnathamby Karunakaran.

    Detective Constable Caroline Landy of the Roads & Transport Unit, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with Sinnathamby’s family at this tragic time.

    “We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area of Green Lane between 18:35hrs and 18:50hrs – were you commuting home from work or within the area at this time and saw something that might be helpful to us?

    “If you were driving or live in the area, please check any dashcam or doorbell camera footage to see if you may have captured what happened.

    “We believe that there may be witnesses who have yet to come forward. No matter how small, anyone with any information is urged to contact us immediately.”

    Officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with footage of this incident to contact police on 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC quoting CAD 6080/3MAR25.

    The car stopped at the scene. The investigation continues and no arrests have been made at this time.

    Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Marston’s agree to pay arbitrator’s fees and costs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Marston’s agree to pay arbitrator’s fees and costs

    Marston’s agreed to pay 100% of an arbitrator’s fees and costs in a Pubs Code arbitration after failing to identify the relevant costs provisions in their submissions to the arbitrator.

    What happened?

    The PCA appointed an alternative arbitrator to determine a dispute in relation to a Rent Assessment Proposal in 2023. The arbitrator ordered the tenant to pay 35% of the arbitrator’s costs, despite not finding the referral to be vexatious. The PCA’s view is that the arbitrator did not have the power to make this order.

    The PCA’s view is that, in Pubs Code Arbitrations, the pub-owing business must pay the reasonable fees and expenses of an arbitrator (in both MRO and non-MRO disputes), except if the arbitrator decides that the referral was vexatious, in which case they can require the tenant to pay some or all of those costs.

    This provision is within s51(6) of the Small Business Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 in relation to costs for non-MRO disputes and for MRO disputes this is provided for in regulation 3 of the Fees Regulations. These provisions are explained in the PCA’s tenant factsheet What Tied Pub Tenants Need to Know about Pubs Code Arbitration Disputes.

    The PCA has legal powers to request information or documents from an arbitration for regulatory purposes. The PCA reviewed Marston’s submissions to the arbitrator on costs and found that Marston’s had failed to reference s 51(6) of the Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act.

    What did the PCA do?

    The PCA contacted Marston’s to express concern about this failure. The PCA met with Marston’s, who did not provide an adequate explanation for this failure on the part of lawyers instructed to act on their behalf. Following discussions with the PCA, Marston’s agreed to pay 100% of the arbitrator’s costs and not recoup them from the tenant.

    In August 2023, Ciarb wrote to all panel arbitrators at the request of the PCA to remind them of the PCA’s position as to the relevant costs provisions which apply to Pubs Code arbitrations.

    The PCA’s expectations of pub-owning businesses in Pubs Code Arbitrations

    The PCA wishes to promote conduct in arbitrations that supports the process to reach an outcome on the proper application of the regulations in a timely manner and which upholds the core Code principles.

    The PCA expects all pub-owning businesses to have a thorough understanding of the Pubs Code legislative framework, as well as information contained in guidance, advice and other material published by the PCA. The PCA further expects pub-owning businesses to be transparent in arbitrations and be clear where they are taking a different view of the law to the PCA, and to inform the PCA in advance if they apply a different view of the application of the Code on which the PCA has published advice or guidance.

    The PCA office can be contacted at office@pubscodeadjudicator.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dstl to tackle emerging health threats

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Dstl to tackle emerging health threats

    A new collaboration between The Pandemic Institute (TPI) and Dstl, is set to fund vital research into emerging infectious diseases.

    Researchers from both organisations aim to strengthen the UK’s ability to detect, understand and combat known and emerging pathogens.

    Bringing together experts in infectious diseases and pandemic research from different organisations is essential for improving the UK’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from these threats.

    This collaboration will support several research projects drawing on the expertise of both organisations. This includes developing new diagnostic tests, evaluating new therapeutics and using cutting edge technology to better understand viral pathogens.

    There are 9 projects in total. One of which will use artificial intelligence (AI) to predict virus-host interactions, aiding the development of new diagnostics and therapeutics.

    Professor Tom Solomon CBE, Director of The Pandemic Institute, emphasised the importance of the collaboration:

    “The recent global health crises have shown us that we must be proactive rather than reactive when dealing with infectious threats. This collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) will ensure that we are at the forefront of scientific innovation, developing tools that could be crucial in preventing future pandemics.”

    Dr Stuart Perkins, Programme Manager at Dstl stated:

    “This joint programme encourages and supports our scientists to work within national multidiscipline teams and will allow Dstl to access novel tools and products, being developed within academia, that could be utilised within the defence and security arena.

    “It generates value for money and ensures cohesion across defence and academic research.

    “The programme strengthens Dstl’s mission to ensure our armed forces maintain operational effectiveness at all times, even in the event they were exposed to infectious agents.”

    This partnership represents an exciting step forward in pandemic preparedness, and helps the UK remain at the cutting edge of infectious disease research.

    Find out more about Dstl’s work and funded projects at TPI.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: UN – Armenia signs on to French-Mexican initiative to regulate veto powers at the Security Council (31.03.25)

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

    France and Mexico welcome Armenia’s decision to join the initiative to limit veto powers at the Security Council in cases of mass atrocities. This announcement reflects a commitment to effective multilateralism, bolstering the Security Council’s ability to act in such situations.

    France, which will chair the Security Council for one month starting on April 1, pledged in 2015 not to use its veto power in cases of mass atrocities. This initiative, which we launched with Mexico the same year, now has the support of 107 nations. It will mark its 10th anniversary this year, during the 80th UN General Assembly High-level Week.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU advances €100 million to Spain for post-storm recovery efforts

    Source: European Union 2

    The Commission has today paid an advance of €100 million from the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) to Spain to help finance its recovery efforts following the October 2024 DANA storm in Valencia. This is the maximum amount allowed under the EUSF as advance payment. 

    Spain’s official EUSF application for DANA-related damages, submitted in January 2025, is currently being assessed by the Commission. Once this assessment is concluded, the Commission will make a proposal for the total amount to be granted from the EUSF to Spain. 

    Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, Raffaele Fitto, stated: “The DANA storm has caused profound devastation in Valencia with hundreds of lives lost and many homes and infrastructure destroyed. Our commitment to supporting the people and the region through this challenging recovery remains unwavering.”

    The EU Solidarity Fund is a post-disaster relief instrument providing financial support to EU Member States and candidate countries for their recovery efforts in the aftermath of severe natural disasters.

    The funding can be used to restore essential infrastructure such as energy, water, health, education, or telecommunications systems, as well as for measures to protect cultural heritage or for clean-up operations. Granting an advance payment does not prejudge the final amount of the EUSF assistance to be granted, which will depend on the Commission’s assessment of Spain’s application and on budgetary availability.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: 2024 Earnings Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Continued recovery of margins and strong improvement in cash generation

    Relevance of the selectivity strategy implemented in 2024, prioritizing margins

    • Another year of strong improvement in adjusted EBITDA margin: 7.5% in 2024, up 40 basis points compared to 2023
    • Slight increase in adjusted EBITDA to €75.1 million, despite the 5.8% decrease in revenue
    • Gradual recovery in net income, group share: -€15.8 million in 2024, compared with -€22.7 million in 2023
    • Net income, group share adjusted for amortization of customer relationships: -€6.0 million, compared with -€12.9 million in 2023

    Sustained momentum for the Group’s profitable growth drivers

    • Confirmation of Germany’s strong potential: +33.6% growth, accretive adjusted EBITDA margin for the Group
    • Expansion of the Energy business: +28.5% growth, including +52.0% in France, driven by accelerated development in solar

    Strong improvement in cash generation, solid financial position

    • Net free cash flow: €5.9 million, compared with -€17.0 million in 2023
    • Net bank debt: €0.8 million at the end of 2024
    • Bank debt successfully refinanced in November 2024 for €120 million

    On track to meet 2026 targets

    • Tripling of revenue in Germany compared to 2023
    • Tripling of revenue in Energy in France compared to 2023
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin above 10% in the Group’s three main geographies: Benelux, France and Germany

    Today, Solutions30 SE is announcing its consolidated earnings for the year ended December 31, 2024, prepared in accordance with IFRS. Solutions30’s 2024 consolidated financial statements as approved by the Management Board were examined by the Supervisory Board on March 31, 2025. The auditors, PKF Audit & Conseil, have completed their audit of the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024. The audit report relating to the certification of these statements as well as the Group’s consolidated financial statements for 2024 are available on the Solutions30 website (www.solutions30.com) under the “Investor Relations” section.

    Gianbeppi Fortis, Chief Executive Officer of Solutions30, stated: “In 2024, we made the strategic choice to prioritize margin improvement over revenue growth, adopting a more selective approach in certain mature markets. This choice has paid off as, this year, we were once again able to significantly improve our margins and we even achieved a slight increase in our adjusted EBITDA, despite a decline in revenue. The German market, where we are now firmly established, has confirmed its strong potential. Increased infrastructure investment in Germany should further expand the range of opportunities available to us. Energy services also confirmed their status as a solid growth driver, particularly in France, where they accounted for almost 30% of our Q4 revenue, with excellent prospects, especially in renewable energy.
    Following significant transformations in 2024, both in our organization and in our business portfolio, we are entering 2025 on a solid footing, with renewed confidence in the Group’s fundamentals. We have set a clear path for 2026, which we presented at our Capital Markets Day last September: tripling our revenue in Germany and in energy services in France, and achieving an adjusted EBITDA margin above 10% in our three main geographies. We are well on track to meet these ambitions.”

    Key figures – Consolidated data
    In millions of euros 2024 2023 Change
    Revenue 996.0 1,057.0 (5.8)%
    Adjusted EBITDA 75.1 74.6 0.7%
    As a % of revenue (EBITDA margin) 7.5% 7.1%  
    Adjusted EBIT 28.4 22.6 25.6%
    As a % of revenue 2.9% 2.1%  
    Operating income 0.6 (2.7) n.a.
    As a % of revenue 0.1% (0.3)%  
    Net income, group share (15.8) (22.7) n.a.
    Adjusted net income, group share * (6.0) (12.9) n.a.
    Free cash flow 40.2 13.4  
    Free cash flow net 5.9 (17.0)  
           
    Financial position figures
    In millions of euros    		 31.12.2024 31.12.2023 Change
    Equity 108.1 124.6 (16.5)
    Net debt 73.8 78.4 (4.7)
    Net bank debt 0.8 (5.7) 6.5

    * Adjusted for amortization of customer relationships (group share) net of the associated tax impact – charge relating to past acquisitions, purely accounting in nature, with no cash impact, and unrelated to tangible assets.

    Solutions30’s consolidated revenue for 2024 amounted to €996.0 million, down -5.8% compared to 2023. This includes an organic contraction of -6.4%, a +0.2% impact from acquisitions, and a +0.4% favorable exchange rate effect. It reflects the Group’s strategic orientations, aimed at giving greater priority to margins over revenue growth, in a context where it is currently operating in markets and business segments at different stages of maturity. Solutions30 chose to scale down its exposure to the telecommunications sector notably in France and in Spain, where certain contracts no longer met its profitability requirements. At the same time, the Group accelerated its development in its profitable growth drivers in Germany and in energy services.

    Adjusted EBITDA amounted to €75.1 million, up +0.7% on 2023, despite lower revenue, reflecting a further increase in adjusted EBITDA margin to 7.5% from 7.1% in 2023 (+40 basis points). This performance reflects the relevance of the selective strategy implemented by the Group in 2024.

    Free cash flow reached €40.2 million, a clear €26.8 million improvement compared to 2023 (€13.4 million). This reflects a favorable trend in working capital, in a context where Solutions30 is increasingly and continuously focusing on profitability and cash generation. Net free cash flow, after repayment of lease liabilities and interest paid on these liabilities, turned positive in 2024, at €5.9 million, compared with a negative -€17.0 million in 2023.

    As a result, the Group’s financial position remains very solid, with a cash position net of bank debt close to breakeven at the end of 2024 (-€0.8 million). In addition, all financing needs are fully covered by the successful refinancing of the Group’s bank debt in November 2024, for a total amount of €120 million.

    Analysis by geographical segment

      2024 2023 Change
    Benelux      
    Revenue 371.6 381.6 (2.6)%
    Adjusted EBITDA 37.1 43.6 (14.9)%
    Adjusted EBITDA margin % 10.0% 11.4% (140 bps)
    France      
    Revenue 360.8 403.3 (10.5)%
    Adjusted EBITDA 34.1 35.5 (3.9)%
    Adjusted EBITDA margin % 9.5% 8.8% +70bp
    Other Countries      
    Revenue 263.6 272.1 (3.1)%
    Adjusted EBITDA 16.3 5.5 +196.4%
    Adjusted EBITDA margin % 6.2% 2.0% ‘+420bp
    HQ* (12.4) (10.0) 24%
    Revenue 996.0 1,057.0 (5.8)%
    Adjusted EBITDA 75.1 74.6 +0.7%
    Adjusted EBITDA margin % 7.5% 7.1% +40 bps

       * Costs related to the Group’s centralized functions

    Benelux

    In the Benelux, the Group’s leading geography in terms of revenue, revenue amounted to €371.6 million in 2024, down slightly by -2.6% (-2.8% organic) from a very high comparison basis (+72% in 2023). This decline is due to the Connectivity business (2024 revenue of €282.2 million, down -7.2%), as the fiber-optic roll-out in Belgium has been slowed by negotiations between service providers aimed at streamlining their roll-out operations nationwide. In addition, the merger between Proximus and Fiberklaar is prompting the adaptation of the Group’s operational processes.

    Energy revenue reached €64.8 million, up +11.6%, driven by the roll-out of smart meters and strong momentum in energy transition support services, notably with the entry into production of the contract to modernize over 1,000 km of low-voltage electricity network in Flanders. In addition, the acquisition of Xperal in September 2024 opens up new prospects in the solar sector in Benelux.

    Lastly, Technology activities maintained their strong momentum, with revenue up by +27.6% to €24.5 million, driven notably by the launch of a new IT support contract in the fourth quarter.

    The Benelux’s adjusted EBITDA margin remained in double-digit territory throughout the year at 10.0%, demonstrating the Group’s ability to effectively adapt its processes and organization to the temporary slowdown in the Connectivity business. Adjusted EBITDA thus amounted to €37.1 million in 2024.

    France

    In France, revenue amounted to €360.8 million, down -10.5% (-11.0% organic). Revenue from the Connectivity business contracted by -26.9% to €208.8 million, reflecting the selective measures implemented since the second quarter to improve margins. This has led the Group to significantly reduce its exposure to certain contracts that were no longer meeting its profitability requirements, with an impact compounded by the slow-down in the fiber roll-out market since the beginning of the year.

    In 2024, Solutions30 successfully continued to expand its Energy business, achieving sustained growth of +52.0% to reach revenue of €78.4 million, or 22% of the total (almost 30% in the fourth quarter). In the photovoltaic sector, the Group benefits from a highly dynamic market and a leading position. The Energy business thus represents a strategic diversification lever for the Group in France, with the ambition of reaching €150 million in revenue from this segment by 2026.

    In the Technology business, revenue amounted to €73.6 million, up +11%, driven by a surge in activity linked to the 2024 Olympics and continued momentum in IT support services.

    France’s adjusted EBITDA margin stood at 9.5%, up 70 basis points compared to 2023. This increase results from the increased selectivity strategy implemented in the Connectivity business, which prioritizes margin improvement over revenue growth. It also reflects the ramp-up of the Energy business and the associated scale effects, as well as ongoing efforts to streamline the organization and central functions.

    Other Countries

    In Other Countries, revenue amounted to €263.6 million, down -3.1%. This trend includes an organic contraction of -4.5% partially offset by a positive currency effect of +1.4%, reflecting the appreciation of the zloty and the pound sterling against the euro during the period.

    With revenue up +33.6% to €84.4 million, Germany confirms in 2024 its status as a powerful growth driver and the Group’s future third pillar in Europe, alongside Benelux and France. Leveraging strong relationships with Germany’s six main telecom service providers, Solutions30 is successfully replicating its business model in this market whose exceptional potential continues to materialize, supported by the accelerated roll-out of fiber networks, and strong future investment momentum in infrastructure in general.

    In Poland, strong growth continues, reaching +18.0% in 2024. In Italy, the agreement reached with the main telecom client has effectively eliminated the associated risk, allowed business to return to normal as of the third quarter, with progressively improving economic conditions expected over the first half of 2025. Revenue was down -16.0% for the year, but returned to growth in the fourth quarter. In Spain, where revenue contracted by -34.2%, the Group has considerably reduced its exposure to the mature telecoms market, and is restructuring its Connectivity business while refocusing on the Energy and Technology businesses. Finally, in the United Kingdom, revenue was down -23.3%, reflecting increased selectivity and a refocusing on the fiber and energy services markets.

    Adjusted EBITDA in Other Countries stood at €16.3 million, three times its 2023 level (€5.5 million). The adjusted EBITDA margin was 6.2%, compared with 2.0% in 2023. This significant improvement reflects Germany’s solid performance. It also results from the return to breakeven in Italy, after the losses recorded in 2023, as well as the initial progress made in the United Kingdom.

    Consolidated earnings

    On the basis of adjusted EBITDA of €75.1 million for 2024, after accounting for depreciation and operational of €14.9 million (compared to €22.8 million in 2023), and after amortization of the right-of-use assets (IFRS 16) amounting to €31.8 million (€29.2 million in 2023), the Group’s adjusted EBIT stood at €28.4 million, up +25.6% compared to 2023, representing 2.9% of full-year revenue (2.1% in 2023).

    Operating income returned to positive territory in 2024, reaching €0.6 million, compared with a loss of -€2.7 million in 2023. It includes:

    • €13.4 million in net non-current operating expenses. These expenses mainly include restructuring costs, reflecting the measures taken by the Group to support the selective downsizing in certain markets and to optimize its organizational structure accordingly, particularly in Spain, the United Kingdom, and France.
    • €14.5 million in amortization of customer relationships, stable compared to 2023. This charge, relating to past acquisitions, is purely accounting in nature, with no impact on cash flow, and does not relate to tangible assets.

    Net financial income was -€14.7 million, compared with -€13.1 million in 2023. It includes a bank interest charge of -€7.2 million, compared with -€5.4 million in 2023, mainly reflecting a higher average drawdown in 2024, and interest on leases (IFRS 16) of -€3.2 million (-€1.7 million in 2023). It also includes, in 2024, non-cash income of €1.1 million, linked to the downward adjustment of earn-out liabilities from past acquisitions (compared with a -€0.8 million charge in 2023).

    After accounting for a net tax expense of -€1.4 million, the Group’s share of So-Tec’s income (equity-accounted) for €0.4 million, and deducting minority interests of €0.7 million, Net income group share amounted to -€15.8 million, a considerable improvement compared to 2023 (-€22.7 million). Adjusted for the amortization of customer relationships net of the related tax impact, Adjusted net income Group share – which strictly reflects the Group’s operating performance – amounted to -€6.0 million, compared with -€12.9 million in 2023.

    Cash flow

    The Group’s 2024 operating cash flow was €56.6 million. The change in working capital, restated for non-cash items, represents an inflow of €1.6 million, compared with an outflow of -€26.2 million in 2023. In addition to the impact from the decrease in revenue, this sharp improvement reflects the Group’s evolving business profile, as well as the enhanced focus on cash generation, with favorable trends in average customer payment terms and advance payment flows. The change in working capital includes a significant reduction in factoring of -€40.5 million, due to a lower volume of receivables in France as a result of the aforementioned decrease in activity, as well as favorable payment terms in Germany. As a result, net cash flow from operating activities rose sharply in 2024, to €58.2 million, compared to €34.1 million in 2023.

    Net investments amounted to €18.0 million, or -1.8% of revenue, in line with their normative levels of around 2%, and were mainly related to information systems and technical equipment. In particular, Solutions30 relies on its proprietary IT platform, Smartfix, as a strategic tool to efficiently manage its large-scale operations. This platform accounts for the bulk of the Group’s annual investments.

    Overall, free cash flow amounted to €40.2 million in 2024, a significant improvement over 2023 (€13.4 million). After repayment of lease liabilities and related interest (IFRS 16), amounting to -€34.3 million, net free cash flow turned positive in 2024, at €5.9 million, compared with -€17.0 million in 2023.

    Taking into account -€3.5 million in earn-outs paid on past acquisitions, -€0.1 million in acquisitions made during the period, -€6.9 million in interest paid, -€14.3 million in net reimbursements of loans, -€1.9 million in debt issuance costs and the -€1.1 million impact of exchange rate fluctuations, the change in cash position was -€22.0 million.

    Financial position

    Solutions30 maintains a solid financial position, combining strong liquidity with a net financial debt of almost zero. At December 31, 2024, the Group’s gross cash position stood at €96.3 million, compared with €118.2 million at the end of December 2023. Gross bank debt amounted to €97.0 million, compared with €112.5 million at December 31, 2023, due to the repayment of loans during the year. As a result, the Group’s net bank debt was nearly breakeven, at €0.8 million at December 31, 2024, compared with a net cash position of €5.7 million at December 31, 2023.

    This financial position is all the more solid given the significant reduction in receivables sold under the Group’s non-recourse factoring program, which amounted to €69 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to €109 million as of December 31, 2023. Factoring can finance working capital from recurring activities that have fully developed, at a very modest cost. This program, combined with a solid financial position, provides Solutions30 with the resources it needs to finance its growth strategy.

    Including €68.8 million in lease liabilities (IFRS 16) and €4.1 million in potential financial debt linked to future earnouts and put options, the Group’s total net debt stood at €73.8 million at December 31, 2024, down slightly from €78.4 million at December 31, 2023.

    In November 2024, Solutions30 completed the refinancing of its entire bank debt, for a total amount of €120 million, including an effective loan of €83 million and a loan commitment of €37 million to finance growth. This new facility, arranged with a syndicate of eight core relationship banks, strengthens the Group’s financial base and provides it with the resources needed to support its continued expansion, particularly in the energy sector. With a 7-year maturity, it also extends the debt maturity profile while maintaining a cost comparable to that of the previous debt.

    Outlook

    Following a year in which Solutions30’s selective strategy proved effective, the Group intends to continue prioritizing margins over volumes in its most mature markets, while allocating more resources to segments offering the strongest prospects for profitable growth, particularly in Germany and in energy services.

    Confident in its positioning and ability to seize the numerous opportunities within its markets, the Group is fully committed to achieving its 2026 objectives, as presented at the Capital Markets Day held on September 26, 2024. These include achieving an adjusted EBITDA margin in excess of 10% in each of its three main geographies: Benelux, France, and Germany.

    In the Benelux, the Group is confident it will be able to capitalize on its leading market position and return to growth during 2025.

    In France, Energy Solutions revenue is set to triple compared with 2023, reaching €150 million in 2026. For Connectivity Solutions, the Group is focused on stabilizing its activity levels while applying strict contract selectivity.

    In Germany, Solutions30 is targeting a first milestone in 2026, with revenue ranging between €150 million and €200 million. Germany should continue to grow faster than the rest of the Group, ultimately becoming one of its largest contributors. In the longer term, the country is set to benefit from strong investment momentum in infrastructure, which should translate into numerous growth opportunities for Solutions30, not only in fiber optics, but also in Energy (smart grids, solar power, energy storage, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, smart meters) and Technology (rail network signaling, Internet of Things) businesses.

    In the rest of Europe, Solutions30 has adopted a portfolio management approach, aiming at sustaining Poland’s profitable growth, further improving performance in the UK, and either restoring margin in Italy and Spain by 2026 or initiating a strategic review in these two countries.

    Webcast for Investors and Analysts

    Date: Monday, March 31, 2025
    6:30 PM (CET) – 5:30 PM (GMT)

    Speakers:
    Gianbeppi Fortis, Chief Executive Officer
    Amaury Boilot, Group General Secretary

    Connection details:

    Webcast in French or English : https://channel.royalcast.com/solutions30-fr/#!/solutions30-fr/20250331_1

    Upcoming Events

    2025 Q1 Revenue Report – April 29, 2025 (after market close)
    TPICAP Conference – Paris – May 15, 2025
    Annual General Meeting – June 17, 2025
    Portzamparc Mid & Small Caps Conference –  June 19, 2025
    2025 Half-year Results – September 17, 2025 (after market close)
    2025 Q3 Revenue Report – November 5, 2025 (after market close)        

    About Solutions30 SE

    Solutions30’s mission is to make the technological developments that are transforming our daily lives accessible to everyone, individuals and businesses alike, especially with regard to the digital transformation and the energy transition. With its network of more than 16,000 technicians, Solutions30 has completed over 65 million call-outs since its inception and led over 500 renewable energy projects with a combined maximum output surpassing 1800 MWp. Every day, Solutions30 is doing its part to build a more connected and sustainable world. Solutions30 has become an industry leader in Europe with operations in 10 countries: France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and Poland. The capital of Solutions30 SE consists of 107,127,984 shares, equal to the number of theoretical votes that can be exercised. Solutions30 SE is listed on the Euronext Paris exchange (ISIN FR0013379484- code S30). Indices : CAC Mid & Small | CAC Small | CAC Technology | Euro Stoxx Total Market Technology | Euronext Tech Croissance.
    Visit our website to learn more: www.solutions30.com

    Contact

    Individual Shareholders:
    actionnaires@solutions30.com – Tel: +33 1 86 86 00 63

    Analysts/Investors:
    investor.relations@solutions30.com

    Press – Image 7 :
    Charlotte Le Barbier – Tel: +33 6 78 37 27 60 – clebarbier@image7.fr

    The Group uses financial indicators not defined by IFRS:

    • Profitability indicators and their components are key operational performance indicators used by the Group to monitor and evaluate its overall operating earnings and earnings by country.
    • Cash flow indicators are used by the Group to implement its investment and resource allocation strategy.

    The non-IFRS financial indicators used are calculated as follows:

    Organic growth includes the organic growth of acquired companies after they are acquired, which Solutions30 assumes they would not have experienced had they remained independent. In 2024, the Group’s organic growth included only the internal growth of its long-standing subsidiaries.

    Adjusted EBITDA is the “operating margin” as reported in the Group’s financial statements.

    Free cash flow corresponds to the net cash flow from operating activities minus the acquisitions of intangible assets and property, plant and equipment net of disposals.

    Calculation of free cash flow:

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Net cash flow from operating activities         58.2                 34.1        
    Acquisition of fixed assets, net         (18.6)         (21.4)
    Disposal of non-current assets after tax         0.7                 0.7        
    Free cash flow         40.2                 13.4        

    Net free cash flow corresponds to free cash flow less “Repayment of lease liabilities” and “Interest paid on lease liabilities” as shown in the Group’s consolidated statement of cash flows.

    Calculation of net free cash flow:

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Free cash flow         40.2                 13.4        
    Repayment of lease liabilities         (31.1)         (28.7)
    Interest paid on lease liabilities         (3.2)         (1.7)
    Free cash flow net         5.9                 (17.0)

    Cash net of bank debt corresponds to “Cash and cash equivalents” as it appears in the Group’s financial statements from which is deducted “Loans from credit institutions, long-term” and “Short-term loans from credit institutions, lines of credit, and bank overdrafts” as they appear in note 10.2 of the Group’s annual financial statements.

    Adjusted EBIT corresponds to operating income as shown in the Group’s financial statements, to which “Customer relationship amortization” and “Other non-current operating expenses” are added and from which “Other non-current operating income” is deducted.

    Reconciliation between operating income and adjusted EBIT:

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Operating income         0.6                 (2.7)        
    Customer relationship amortization         14.5                 14.4        
    Other non-current operating income         (2.2)                 (0.4)        
    Other non-current operating expenses         15.5                 11.4        
    Adjusted EBIT         28.4                 22.6        
    As a % of revenue         2.9        %         2.1        %

    The adjusted group share of net income corresponds to the “Net income, group share” as shown in the group financial statements, to which is added “Amortization of customer relationships, group share” and from which is deducted the “Tax impact on amortization of customer relationships, group share.”

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Net income, group share         (15.8)         (22.7)
    Amortization of customer relationships, group share         13.2                 13.1        
    Tax impact on amortization of customer relationships, group share         (3.4)         (3.3)
    Adjusted group share of net income         (6.0)         (12.9)

    Net debt corresponds to “Debt, long-term,” “Debt, short-term,” and long- and short-term “Lease liabilities” as they appear in the Group’s financial statements from which “Cash and cash equivalents” as they appear in the Group’s financial statements are deducted.

    Net debt/EBITDA ratio corresponds to “net debt” divided by annualized EBITDA.

    Net debt-to-equity ratio corresponds to “net debt” divided by equity.

    Net debt:

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Bank debt         97.0                 112.5        
    Lease liabilities         68.8                 76.4        
    Future liabilities from earnouts and put options         4.1                 7.7        
    Cash and cash equivalents         (96.3)                 (118.2)        
    Net debt         73.8                 78.4        
         
    Operating margin (Adjusted EBITDA)         75.1                 74.6        
    Net debt ratio 0.98 1.05
         
    Equity         108.1                 124.6        
    % of net debt         68.2        %         62.9        %

    Net bank debt corresponds to “Long-term loans from credit institutions” and “Short-term loans from credit institutions, lines of credit, and bank overdrafts” as they appear in note 10.2 of the Group’s annual financial statements from which are deducted “Cash and cash equivalents” as they appear in the Group’s financial statements.

    Net bank debt:

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Loans from credit institutions, long-term         74.3                 75.6        
    Short-term loans from credit institutions and lines of credit         22.7                 37.0        
    Gross bank debt         97.0                 112.6        
    Cash and cash equivalents         (96.3)         (118.2)
    Net bank debt         0.8                 (5.7)
    Cash net of bank debt         (0.8)         5.7        

    Gross bank debt corresponds to “Loans from credit institutions, long-term” and “Short-term loans from credit institutions, lines of credit, and bank overdrafts” as they appear in note 10.2 of the Group’s annual financial statements.

    Working capital corresponds to “current assets” as reported in the Group’s financial statements (excluding “Cash and cash equivalents” and “Derivative financial instruments”) less “current liabilities” (excluding “Debt, short-term,” “Current provisions,” and “Lease liabilities”).

    Working capital:

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Inventory and work in progress         24.7                 25.7        
    Trade receivables and related accounts         219.5                 211.6        
    Current contract assets         0.9                 1.0        
    Other receivables         79.1                 66.5        
    Prepaid expenses         6.1                 3.1        
         
              (171.7)         (200.1)
    Trade payables         (143.4)         (120.8)
    Tax and social security liabilities         (21.0)         (15.0)
    Other current liabilities         (56.8)         (18.9)
    Working capital         (62.6)         (46.9)
         
    Change in working capital         (15.6)         17.7        
    Non-monetary items         14.0                 8.5        
    Change in working capital adjusted for non-monetary items         (1.6)         26.2        
         

    Net investments correspond to the sum of the lines “Acquisition of current assets,”
    “Acquisition of non-current financial assets,” and “Disposal of non-current assets after tax” as they appear in the consolidated statement of cash flows.
    Net investments:

    In millions of euros 31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    Acquisition of non-current assets         (18.2)         (21.6)
    Acquisition of non-current financial assets         (0.4)         0.2        
    Disposal of non-current assets after tax         0.7                 0.7        
    Net investments         (17.9)         (20.7)

    Operating costs correspond to costs incurred for the Group’s operations, included in the “operating margin” (excluding structural costs).

    Structural costs correspond to costs incurred by the Group’s head office functions in various countries, included in the “operating margin” (excluding operating costs).

    Expenses related to the Group’s centralized functions refer to costs incurred by the parent company’s headquarters functions and are included in the “operating margin.”

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Proactis SA 12 months revenue 31 January 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Proactis SA Announces Financial Information for the year ended 31 January 2025

    Paris – March 31, 2025 – Proactis SA (Euronext: PROAC), a leading provider of comprehensive spend management and business process collaboration solutions, today announces financial information for the year ended 31 Janvier 2025, in accordance with the “European Transparency Obligations Directive” financial disclosure requirements.

    Financial data

    in € million     12 months – Year ended 31 Jan 2025   18 months – Year ended 31 Jan 2024     % Change
    2025/ 2023(*)
                     
    Consolidated Operational Revenue     5.5   11.3     (52) %
    SaaS (**)     5.0   9.4     (47) %
    Services     0.4   1.9     (76) %
                     
    Management fees     3.8   6.6     (42) %
                     
    Consolidated Revenue     9.3   17.9     (48) %
    (unaudited Figures)                
    (*) Percentages calculated on exact numbers, not the rounded numbers shown
    (**) SaaS is a model of delivering technology where a software solution is hosted (cloud computing) as a service for its customers.
    Clients do not buy the technology but pay a subscription fee to use it.
     

    The extended 18-month period in the previous financial year reflected a change to the Proactis Group year-end date to 31st January. The current fiscal year covers the period from February 1st, 2024, to January 31st, 2025.

    Because of the extended additional 6 months on previous fiscal year period, pertaining to the change of year end date, the decrease of the revenue looks higher; still, it is below the level of the prior period due principally to non-renewal of contracts in specific non-core product areas, and contract value decreases.

    For clarity purposes we present the FY25 figures compared to the last 12 months of FY23, and they are as below:

    in € million     12 months – Year ended 31 Jan 2025   12 months period ended 31 Jan 2024   % Change
    2025/ 2023(*)
    (12 months to 01-2024)
                   
    Consolidated Operational Revenue     5.5   6.9   (20) %
    SaaS (**)     5.0   6.1   (18) %
    Services     0.4   0.8   (42) %
                   
    Management fees     3.8   4.5   (15) %
                   
    Consolidated Revenue     9.3   11.4   (18) %
    (unaudited Figures)              
    (*) Percentages calculated on exact numbers, not the rounded numbers shown
    (**) SaaS is a model of delivering technology where a software solution is hosted (cloud computing) as a service for its customers.
    Clients do not buy the technology but pay a subscription fee to use it.    		    

    The change to Service revenues reflects a large implementation project in the FY23 comparative that has since been completed.

    The total consolidated revenue includes Group Management fees related to transfer pricing agreements.

    * * * *

    About Proactis SA (https://www.proactis.com/proactis-sa), a Proactis Company

    Proactis SA connects companies by providing business spend management and collaborative business process automation solutions for both goods and services, through The Business Network. Our solutions integrate with any ERP or procurement system, providing our customers with an easy-to-use solution which drives adoption, compliance and savings.

    Proactis SA has operations in France, Germany, USA and Manila.

    Listed in Compartment C on the Euronext Paris Eurolist.

    ISIN: FR0004052561, Euronext: PROAC, Reuters: HBWO.LN, Bloomberg: HBW.FP

    Contacts
    Tel: +33 (0)1 53 25 55 00
    E-mail: investorContact@proactis.com

    * * * *

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK What do the Deputy Speakers do?

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    The House of Commons has three Deputy Speakers, who fill in for the Speaker in the Chamber and have a range of parliamentary duties. For the first time in history all of the Deputy Speakers are women. We accompanied them and their private secretary, Abi, to see what a day for them looks like.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R97C76aqvVM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Declaration by the Foreign Ministers of the Weimar +

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Joint Declaration by the Foreign Ministers of the Weimar +

    Joint Declaration by the Foreign Ministers of United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Spain as well as the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy in Madrid (31st March 2025)

    30/03/2025. Madrid, Spain. Foreign Secretary David Lammy poses for family photo ahead of Weimar+ meeting. Picture by Ben Dance / FCDO

    Three days after the anniversary of the Bucha massacre, we reiterate our unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, building on our Warsaw Declaration of 19 November, our Berlin Declaration of 12 December and our Paris Declaration of 12 February.

    Ukraine has shown its strong commitment to peace, also by agreeing to a full ceasefire without preconditions. However, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine has not ceased. Instead of imposing new conditions and launching continued attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure that cause more and more victims, Russia must now show it is serious about ending its war.  We call on Russia to stop its delaying tactics and reciprocate by agreeing without delay, as Ukraine has done, to an immediate unconditional ceasefire on equal terms and implementing it fully. We need to see progress within a clear timeframe.

    Building on the recent meetings in Paris and London, we took forward the discussion on how best to support a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, which is vital for Ukraine, for Europe and for the whole international community.

    We remain committed to further political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support for Ukraine, together with our international partners. To this end, we will strengthen Ukraine through significant short and long-term military support, also in the framework of Capability Coalitions and the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, which will hold its next meeting on 11 April. Many European partners, including the members of this group, have made substantive additional pledges to support Ukraine militarily and are planning similar commitments in the future.

    We also stand ready to apply further pressure on Russia using all tools available, including by adopting new sanctions, to hinder its ability to wage its war of aggression and to ensure Ukraine is placed in the best position possible to secure a just and lasting peace. We reiterate that Russia’s assets should remain immobilized until Russia ceases its war of aggression against Ukraine and compensates it for the damage caused.

    We are also strongly committed to ensuring full accountability for war crimes and the other most serious crimes committed in connection with Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The progress made on establishing a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, within the framework of the Council of Europe, is an important step.

    A credible pathway to peace must include humanitarian relief efforts, notably the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilians and the return of all Ukrainian children and other civilians unlawfully deported and transferred to Russia and Belarus.

    We support efforts for a ceasefire that can lead to the establishment of a just and lasting peace. We welcome recent progress to define the essential elements for a viable and sustainable ceasefire, including a clear framework of monitoring and verification.

    Peace must be sustainable, backed by effective guarantees to prevent further acts of aggression. Real, robust and credible security guarantees for Ukraine are an indispensable element of a just and lasting peace, based on Ukraine’s sovereign right to determine its security relationships with its partners, and on the duty of the international community to prevent future Russian aggression. We stand ready to play a leading role in this regard.

    Peace must be just, and Russia’s war of aggression cannot end with a reward to the aggressor. There can be no agreement that compromises on Euro-Atlantic security and the independence, sovereignty territorial integrity of Ukraine. We will not accept any agreement that restricts Ukraine’s military and defence industry or the military presence of partner countries in Ukraine.

    We stand ready to do our share in order to achieve this peace. Europe now provides almost two thirds of all support to Ukraine, and 60% of military aid. We reiterate our ironclad commitment to NATO as the bedrock of Euro-Atlantic security and commit to take on greater responsibility for the future of the security and defense of the European continent, aiming at a significant result at the summit in The Hague.

    We reiterate the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny and to defend its democracy. Ukraine’s future is in Europe and in the European Union, and Ukraine’s future is crucial for the security of Europe. Europe must be fully involved in the negotiations and will make its own decisions.  

    We remain committed to supporting Ukraine’s repair, recovery and reconstruction, in coordination with international partners.

    We reaffirm our commitment to our democratic values, and to further engage with our global partners in order to promote together a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on the universal principles of the United Nations Charter.

    We reaffirm that Europe must assume more responsibility for its own security and become better equipped and deal with immediate and future challenges.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Downing Street opens doors to Adolescence creators for vital discussion on protecting our children

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Downing Street opens doors to Adolescence creators for vital discussion on protecting our children

    The Prime Minister met with Adolescence creators, charities and young people to discuss the issues raised in the series during a meeting focused on rethinking adolescent safety today.

    • Prime Minister convenes conversation on rethinking adolescent safety and how to prevent young boys being dragged into “whirlpool of hatred and misogyny”
    • Downing Street welcomes Adolescence creators, charities and young people to listen to experiences of children today
    • Backed by the Prime Minister, students to watch Netflix drama Adolescence for free in secondary schools across the country

    Today the Prime Minister met with Adolescence creators, charities and young people to discuss the issues raised in the series during a meeting focused on rethinking adolescent safety.

    Joined by Adolescence co-writer Jack Thorne and producer Jo Johnson, the group met to discuss the challenges facing children and parents today. It also looked at how the Government can work in collaboration to ensure young people have the right tools, support and environment to learn about healthy relationships.

    The meeting comes as Netflix makes the drama free to all secondary schools across the country through the Into Film+ schools streaming service and backed by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons. The series will help students better understand the impact of misogyny, dangers of online radicalisation and the importance of healthy relationships.

    Giving children the best start in life, making our communities safer and preventing young people falling into crime are central to this government’s Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    As a father, watching this show with my teenage son and daughter, I can tell you – it hit home hard.  

    It’s an important initiative to encourage as many pupils as possible to watch the show. As I see from my own children, openly talking about changes in how they communicate, the content they’re seeing, and exploring the conversations they’re having with their peers is vital if we are to properly support them in navigating contemporary challenges, and deal with malign influences.

    This isn’t a challenge politicians can simply legislate for. Believe me, if I could pull a lever to solve it, I would. Only by listening and learning from the experiences of young people and charities can we tackle the issues this groundbreaking show raises.

    At the meeting, the Prime Minister set out how this issue is personal to him. After years spent working as the Director of Public Prosecutions, he has seen the devastation that misogyny and violence leaves behind, and how it tears through families and communities.   

    Charities invited to Downing Street include the NSPCC, Movember, Beyond Quality, Children’s Society as well as a young person who shared their own experience of becoming immersed in similar online content.

    The Prime Minister was also joined by Netflix and Tender charity who have provided resources and guides for parents, carers and teachers on the issues explored in Adolescence, as well as Into Film, the charity enabling the free viewing in schools via its Into Film+ schools streaming service.

    Jack Thorne, Adolescence Co-Writer, said: 

    We made this show to provoke a conversation. We wanted to pose the question – how do we help stop this growing crisis. So to have the opportunity to take this into schools is beyond our expectations. We hope it’ll lead to teachers talking to the students, but what we really hope is it’ll lead to students talking amongst themselves.

    Anne Mensah, Netflix VP UK Content, said:

    Adolescence has captured the national mood, sparking important conversations and helping articulate the pressures young people and parents face in today’s society.

    We’re incredibly proud of the impact the show has made, and are delighted to be able to offer it to all schools across the UK through Into Film+. As part of this, healthy relationships charity Tender will create resources for teachers and parents to help them navigate the important topics the show explores.

    The Government has taken action to ensure it is protecting children from the issues raised in the series.

    The Online Safety Act’s illegal content duties have come into force targeting the most harmful material including extreme pornography.

    From the summer, platforms will also have to ensure children have an age-appropriate experience online preventing them from seeing dangerous content which includes abusive and hateful misogyny and violence.  

    The Online Safety Act is not the end of the conversation but the foundation. As the Prime Minister has done so today, the Government is committed to listening and will not hesitate to strengthen the law further where necessary.  

    The Government is also reviewing the relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) statutory guidance, following a consultation that closed last summer. It is closely looking at the consultation responses, engaging with stakeholders and considering the relevant evidence before setting out next steps to take the guidance forward. 

    Maria Neophytou, NSPCC Director of Strategy & Knowledge said:

    The debates around the Netflix series Adolescence, and the themes within it, are both disturbing and important. Today’s meeting with the Prime Minister was a critical milestone for young people and for the NSPCC; a chance to come together and discuss what we can do to ensure young people are growing up in healthy, happy and safe environments.

    The online world is being polluted by harmful and misogynistic content which is having a direct impact on the development of young people’s thinking and behaviours. This cannot be allowed to continue.

    It is vital young people have access to high-quality, age-appropriate lessons in school about healthy relationships and understand why misogyny is so harmful and has no place in our society. And that parents have guidance and support around how to keep their children safe online. But we can’t expect teachers and parents to do all the heavy lifting.

    Tech companies must now put the wellbeing of children first, as demanded by the Online Safety Act. They have a responsibility to ensure their platforms and sites are safe by design for young users: that age limits are enforced, that children’s privacy is respected, that algorithms are not targeting and bombarding them with harmful content, and that there are clear and simple ways for young users to complain about what they are experiencing online and seek support.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work begins on new affordable homes at former Cowan’s Close depot site

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Construction has begun on a new residential development in Newington which will provide 19 modern, fully wheelchair-accessible homes available for social rent.

    Work commenced today (Monday 31 March), with the project expected to be completed by summer 2026.

    Upon completion, the homes will provide much-needed wheelchair accommodation in a city centre location whilst incorporating innovative, energy efficient design features. A fabric first approach with high levels of insulation will ensure that the homes stay warm, reducing the level of heating needed and helping to prevent fuel poverty.

    The development will also include renewable heating and energy generation with the use of Air Source Heat Pumps and Photovoltaic (solar) panels which will produce low-cost, sustainable energy and significantly reduce carbon emission from the development.

    Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said:

    Edinburgh is in urgent need of new affordable and accessible homes to address the shortage of suitable accommodation options for residents who have disabilities and residents who are wheelchair users.

    I am therefore delighted that the new Cowan’s Close development in Newington is now underway to provide 19 new, modern, fully wheelchair accessible homes for social rent.

    CCG Managing Director, David Wylie, said:

    We are delighted to have commenced construction at Cowan’s Close. The project is another great example of how The City of Edinburgh Council and CCG are working collaboratively to address the demand for new, affordable homes in the city, and it will be a much welcome addition to the Newington community upon completion next year.

    Published: March 31st 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham City Council declares major incident

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Monday, 31st March 2025

    Birmingham City Council has today declared a major incident to address the impact of the waste service industrial action.

    The council has a contingency plan using our limited resources to collect from all properties in the city once a week, but actions on the picket line have prevented us from doing this.

    The daily blocking of our depots by pickets has meant that we cannot get our vehicles out to collect waste from residents. Often, we can only get one vehicle out per hour.

    This has meant that to date around 17,000 tonnes of waste remains uncollected across the city.

    This has led to rising concerns of risks to public health and damage to our environment.

    The council is already working to an emergency plan; declaring a major incident will initially allow the council to:

    • Quickly increase the availability of street cleansing and fly-tip removal with an additional 35 vehicles and crews around the city.
    • Work with partners to better manage the risks the city is facing, including health and fire risks and allow for increased data and intelligence sharing. Initially this will be focussed upon support to allow our vehicles to safely exists and enter our depots on time.
    • Allow the council to explore what further support is available from neighbouring authorities and government to assist us in managing the situation.

    Councillor John Cotton, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “It’s regrettable that we have had to take this step, but we cannot tolerate a situation that is causing harm and distress to communities across Birmingham.

    “I respect the right to strike and protest, however actions on the picket line must be lawful and sadly the behaviour of some now means we are seeing a significant impact on residents and the city’s environment.

    “Unless we declare a major incident and deploy the waste service’s contingency plan, then we would be unable to clear the backlog of waste on the streets or improve the frequency of collections.

    “I want to thank residents for their continued patience under difficult circumstances and the community groups who have been working hard within their communities to help with clear-up.

    “I would reiterate that we have made a fair and reasonable offer to our workers which means none of them have to lose any money and I would urge Unite to reconsider their position.”

    The council usually deploys around 200 vehicles over 8-hour daily shifts. Our contingency allows 90 vehicles per day but because of pickets blocking depots they are deployed much later and therefore for shorter working periods.

    Normally we would make well over 500,000 collections per week. Our strike contingency would mean 360,000 but due to the blockade of depots we are doing far below this.

    • Our waste collection rate against our reduced service plan (one single collection per property / week) has declined from 87% in the week of 10th March, to 64% in the week of 17th March, to 17% in the week of 24th March. 
    • The daily rate of accumulation of uncollected waste in the city has increased from 483 tonnes per day in the week of 10th March, to 655 tonnes per day in the week of 17th March, to almost 900 tonnes per day in the week of 24th March. 
    • We estimate there are now over 17,000 tons of uncollected rubbish in the city.

    Notes to editors –

    Our contingency arrangements include:

    • We are now running a significantly reduced service to maintain a single weekly collection to each property in the city to maintain public health and safety.
    • We have suspended recycling, green waste, bulky waste and paused the introduction of food waste collection.
    • We have increased the opening hours of our household waste recycling centres. We will now look to increase these hours further to increase capacity.
    • We have increased the availability of our Mobile Household Waste collection vehicles from five to seven days a week.
    • We are increasing caretaking capacity for BCC tower blocks to avoid the build-up of refuse and improve fire safety.
    • We have established a multi-agency response with key partners including police to share information and ensure we can deploy our vehicles on time from our depots
    • We have increased the opening hours of our household waste recycling centres. We will now look to increase these hours further to increase capacity.
    • We have increased the availability of our Mobile Household Waste collection vehicles from five to seven days a week.
    • We are increasing caretaking capacity for BCC tower blocks to avoid the build-up of refuse and improve fire safety

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Announces Intention to Appoint Nursing Provider for Two Liverpool Care Homes

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council has completed a competitive tender process to appoint a new nursing care provider for Millvina nursing home in Anfield and Brushwood nursing home in Speke. 

    The tender, launched in February 2025, invited qualified providers to submit proposals for delivering high-quality nursing care across both homes. 

    The Council, which owns both buildings, took over the management of the homes last year, with Mersey Care delivering nursing care. This was because the previous provider had decided to withdraw. Mersey Care subsequently informed the Council it did not wish to continue providing nursing care after May 2025, triggering the tender process.

    Following a thorough evaluation of all submissions, the Council can announce that it intends to award the contract for nursing provision to Primary Care 24 Merseyside Ltd (PC24).

    In line with procurement regulations, an 8 working day standstill period is now in place allowing bidders to review the outcome and raise any questions before the contract is formally awarded.  

    Liverpool City Council reaffirms its commitment to residents, families, and staff by making clear assurances that health, safety, and wellbeing remains the highest priority and there will be no disruption to care services during the transition to the new provider.

    Engagement with care home residents and staff has already begun and will continue throughout the standstill period and beyond, to ensure everyone is fully informed and supported. 

    Cllr Angela Coleman, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services, said:“As we move forward, our priority remains the same, to ensure that residents continue to receive the highest-quality, compassionate care, and that everyone feels supported every step of the way.

    “Our care homes are of the utmost importance to us, and we know how much they mean to the people who live and work there. We are committed to ensuring this transition is as smooth, respectful, reassuring with everyone involved.”

    Corporate Director for Adult Social Care, Health and Homelessness, Anne Marie Lubanski said: “The health and wellbeing of our residents and their families is at the heart of everything we do. We understand how important it is that people feel supported and reassured during this time of change. 

    “That’s why we’re committed to working together to ensure the best possible care is in place, both now and in the future. 

    “This decision follows a thorough and careful process, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the organisations who submitted applications to support the care of our residents.”

    “In particular, I want to thank Mersey Care for their commitment and compassion in supporting Millvina and Brushwood. Their contribution has been deeply valued, and we are truly grateful for the care they have provided.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 20 EU projects to help transform cities across Europe

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Commission and the Hauts-de-France Region, as the Entrusted Entity for the European Urban Initiative (EUI), have announced the results of the third call for innovative actions. With €94 million in funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), 20 selected projects from 13 EU Member States will test innovative solutions in real urban environments, supporting cities in their transition to a greener and more digital future. Projects include giving a second life to used EV batteries in Tilburg, the Netherlands, and repurposing vacant public buildings for the needs of the community in Košice, Slovakia. Each project will receive up to €5 million from ERDF, co-financing 80% of the eligible costs.

    Beyond their implementation in selected cities, these projects will serve as blueprints for other urban areas across Europe. A part of this funding will also support knowledge transfer and the replication of successful solutions tested by these projects in other EU cities, further amplifying their societal and economic impact.

    The full list of winners can be consulted on EUI website.

     

    Background

    In the 2021-2027 programming period, Cohesion policy has a strong urban dimension, and its support to sustainable urban development has been reinforced to help cities take active role in designing and implementing policy responses to their local challenges and needs.

    As a result, cohesion funds will invest over €100 billion in cities, with more than €24 billion directly managed by cities for designing and implementing investments under Cohesion policy programmes.

    The EUI is a key instrument of the European Union’s Cohesion policy, specifically targeting city authorities to strengthen urban innovation and capacity- and knowledge-building for sustainable urban development. The EUI allows cities to test innovative and creative solutions to address their specific urban challenges, ensuring that the solutions developed and tested are transferable and replicable across other EU cities. 

    The 20 projects selected today will join to the community of 36 ongoing  projects selected within the previous two calls: the first call (in 2022), which focused on the New European Bauhaus, and the second call (in 2023), which was dedicated to themes on greening cities, sustainable tourism, and harnessing talent in shrinking cities.

    With a budget of EUR 395 million, the EUI builds on the legacy of the Urban Innovative Actions, the Commission’s initiative implemented during the 2014-2020 programming period, but it has a stronger focus on innovation led by cities themselves and on sustainability of innovation as well as replicability in other cities. 

    Beyond innovation, the EUI supports the capacities of all urban areas across the EU. It provides evidence for policymaking and shares knowledge on sustainable urban development, including via the Urban Agenda for the EU and Portico, the European urban knowledge platform.

    The experience of the EUI implementation will also contribute to the preparation of a comprehensive EU Agenda for Cities in the course of 2025 that is aimed at taking stock of EU initiatives and instruments the European Commission has put in place over the years with a view to streamlining and simplifying the current support and making it accessible to all potential city beneficiaries. The Agenda also aims to examine how to enhance processes through which the concerns of cities could be stronger reflected in future EU policy making. The call for evidence concerning the content of the Agenda  targeted at the public at large will soon be opened at the Have your say portal of the European Commission.

    More information

    Selected projects

    European Urban Initiative

    Cohesion Data Platform

    Kohesio Projects Platform

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Foreign Affairs Committee Livestream – Disinformation Diplomacy

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    The Foreign Affairs Committee will hold an evidence session hearing from the Fifth President of Georgia, Salome Zourabichvili, at 14.00, on Tuesday 1 April.

    This session will help to inform the Committee’s inquiry into disinformation, and the threat that disinformation poses to democracies worldwide. Ms Zourabichvili will appear virtually.

    This session will focus on disinformation in the context of Russian interference and the disputed October 2024 Georgian election.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi_Stz6-giI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study on association between postpartum hormonal contraceptive use and risk of depression

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at postpartum hormonal contraceptive use and depression risk. 

    Dr John Reynolds-Wright, NES/CSO Clinical Lecturer in Sexual & Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, said:

    “This retrospective registry study indicates an association between use of hormonal contraception in the first year post-partum with either being prescribed an anti-depressant or being labelled with a discharge diagnosis of depression in the Danish national healthcare electronic records.

    “It does not demonstrate causation of depression by hormonal contraception.

    “When examining the absolute risk of being prescribed an anti-depressant (or receiving the discharge diagnosis of depression), these risks are small and comparable for users (1.54%) and non-users (1.36%) of hormonal contraception in the twelve months following a first live birth in this cohort.

    “The study excluded women who had given birth previously and did not consider previous history of depression (or anti-depressant prescription) longer than 2 years ago. Considering both of these aspects may have altered the findings of the study.

     “The authors conclude that “the incidence of depression post partum may be inflated by routine HC initiation, which is important information to convey at postpartum contraceptive counseling” however this study has not convincingly shown that incidence of depression is higher – anti-depressants may be prescribed for a range of indications, not only depression – and so changing advice about postpartum contraception is not supported.

     “Further, any small increased risk (0.18% higher of being prescribed an anti-depressant or being diagnosed with depression), needs to be balanced against the benefits brought by post-partum contraception to allow women to space births, which improves their and their baby’s health in multiple ways, and gives them reproductive freedom in their lives.

     “We must cautiously interpret the recommendations and findings of this study, particularly given the current global political climate, where reproductive rights are continually under threat.”

    ‘Postpartum Hormonal Contraceptive Use and Risk of Depression’ by Søren Vinther Larsen et al. was published in JAMA Network Open at 16:00 UK time Monday 31 March 2025.

    DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.2474

    Declared interests

    Dr John Reynolds-Wright:

    –              Associate Editor, BMJ Sexual and Reproductive Health

    –              Evidence Advisor, British Society of Abortion Care Providers

    –              I have received research funding from HRA Pharma (Perrigo) and Exelgyn (Nordic Pharma)

    –              I have received support to attend international conferences from Gedeon Richter (travel, hotel, conference registration)

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Have your say on bus stop improvements for faster, more reliable and more accessible bus travel in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth residents are being invited to share their views on plans to improve bus stops across the city.

    These proposals follow Portsmouth City Council’s 2024 bus stop accessibility survey, where members of the public were asked what changes they would like to see to make bus stops more accessible for everyone. Bus drivers were also asked to contribute and share their thoughts on where improvements could be made. This is part of efforts to speed up bus journey’s and make taking the bus better for all.

    This project is funded by the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan, £52 million of government investment designed to improve bus services in Portsmouth.

    Improvements have been suggested at bus stops across the city, including, Oakwood Road, Doyle Avenue, Knox Road, Angerstein Road, Kings Theatre, College Park, Hayling Avenue, St Luke’s Church, Milton Road, Copythorn Road and Charles Dickens Birthplace.

    Proposals at these stops include making changes which will speed up bus journey times and help buses to get out of stops easily, as well as changes to pathways and stops to make bus stops easier for people to get on and off with a pram or in a wheelchair.

    Encouraging more people to choose the bus not only reduces traffic congestion, but it also contributes to better air quality, creating a healthier environment for everyone. This is one of the many initiatives the council is implementing to support bus travel including: a new bus bus ticket range, fare free days, and improvements to bus services such as more frequent buses, and 24-hour bus routes.

    Councillor Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Making bus travel accessible for everyone is a key part of our efforts to improve transport in Portsmouth. These proposed bus stop upgrades will help ensure that everyone can access buses with ease and comfort, while also reducing congestion and improving our city’s air quality.”

    How to get involved

    Residents are encouraged to provide their feedback by 5pm on Friday 11 April. To have your say, email citytravel@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or write to BSIP Team, Floor 2, Portsmouth City Council, Civic Offices Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 2AL

    Once the feedback has been collected, the council will review all views before making a decision. If the improvements move forward work is expected to begin later this year.

    More information about the proposed improvements can be found on the council website travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip-schemes/bus-stop-improvements/

    More information about the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan

    The Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) is Portsmouth’s visionary delivery scheme aligned with the government’s National Bus Strategy and aims to dramatically improve bus services in Portsmouth and to encourage passengers back to the bus.

    This programme is managed by an enhanced partnership between local bus companies Stagecoach South, First Solent and Portsmouth City Council. With a £52 million grant from the Department for Transport (DfT) the Portsmouth BSIP aims to increase bus usage in Portsmouth by engaging with the local community and transforming the bus network in the city so that it is faster, more reliable, and more affordable.

    The Portsmouth BSIP has already funded early morning travel, and later night services, tap on tap off technology, fare free weekends to encourage residents to try the bus, Christmas Day bus services and much more, with even more exciting developments planned for 2025.

    According to the latest Department for Transport (DfT) figures, Portsmouth has seen a 20% rise in bus passengers in 2024 and is recognised as the top city for bringing people back to bus travel, with over 12 million bus journeys taken. These achievements were recognised at the UK Bus Awards in 2024, with Portsmouth winning gold in the Partnership for Excellence category.

    More information can be found on our website: https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: ONDCP Recognizes Law Enforcement’s Work to Stop Drug Traffickers

    Source: The White House

    class=”wp-block-heading has-text-align-center”>National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Awards Ceremony Recognizes Excellence Across 14 Key Categories

    Washington, D.C.—Last night, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) recognized individuals and initiatives of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program at the 2025 National HIDTA Awards Ceremony for their critical work to combat the national security threat posed by drug traffickers, including those who traffic deadly illicit fentanyl in the United States, killing tens of thousands of Americans each year.  

    The Trump Administration is taking the fight to the cartels and drug traffickers in order to save American lives. The HIDTA Program plays a key role in disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations and provides assistance to federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug trafficking regions across all 50 states. Last year, the 33 HIDTAs seized 4.1 million pounds of fentanyl and other drugs and denied drug traffickers $17.7 billion in illicit profits. For every dollar invested in the HIDTA Program, the American people get $68.07 in benefits, making HIDTA an effective and efficient use of taxpayers’ money, and an important tool in the nation’s effort to stop drug traffickers and save American lives.  

    The following awards were presented March 27 to individuals and initiatives of the HIDTA Program for their efforts to reduce the supply and trafficking of dangerous drugs in communities across the country: 

    INVESTIGATIVE COLLABORATION

    Chicago HIDTA, Chicago HIDTA Counternarcotics and Cryptocurrency Task Force

    Created to identify, disrupt, and dismantle transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), the Chicago HIDTA Counternarcotics and Cryptocurrency Task Force (CNCTF) targeted one of the largest, fastest-growing dark net markets in the world – Nemesis Market. This marketplace facilitated drug trafficking, fraud, hacking, and other illicit activities responsible for more than $20 million in illicit transactions to more than 150,000 registered users around the world. Led by DEA and comprising an array of federal and local partners, CNCTF undertook Operation Keyboard Warrior, which received designation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). In March 2024, CNCTF, working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the German Bundescriminalamt, disrupted Nemesis Market by executing simultaneous, multinational search and seizure warrants on critical technological infrastructure. The warrants resulted in nearly $1 million in frozen and seized cryptocurrency-related assets, twelve computer servers, various electronic devices, and terabytes of data containing financial records and personal information of more than 1,000 vendors trafficking in drugs and engaging in fraud, hacking, and forgeries on the marketplace. CNCTF leveraged this information to effect arrests and warrants in eight U.S. federal districts, and provided investigative leads to foreign law enforcement counterparts in multiple countries using international treaty-based disclosure agreements that were novel to cyber cases.

    PROSECUTION

    South Florida HIDTA, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Gerarde and Sean McLaughlin

    With the support of the South Florida HIDTA and assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Kevin Gerarde and Sean McLaughlin secured a jury verdict against the Premier of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) for drug trafficking. Andrew Fahie, who was elected as the Premier in 2019, was accused of assisting the Sinaloa Cartel in transporting loads of cocaine weighing three metric tons from the coast of Colombia through the BVI en route to the United States for distribution. In exchange for his assistance, Fahie allegedly received a 12 percent cut of the proceeds when the cocaine was sold in the United States. After an extensive undercover operation conducted with the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, DEA arrested Fahie. In prosecuting Fahie, AUSAs Gerarde and McLaughlin overcame a variety of evidentiary challenges, including United Kingdom and BVI foreign law determinations regarding the applicability of U.S. money laundering statutes. On February 8, 2024, the jury returned a verdict finding Fahie guilty on all counts, and he was subsequently sentenced to 135 months imprisonment.

    PUBLIC HEALTH/PUBLIC SAFETY COLLABORATION

    Texoma HIDTA, Caprock Drug Initiative

    The Texoma HIDTA’s Caprock Initiative launched a program at the behest of local officials to address alarming increases in fentanyl overdoses in and around Lubbock, Texas. Since its inception, the program has reached nearly 26 thousand individuals from all walks of life. Undertaken with substantial support from the United States Attorney’s Office, the Texas Anti-Gang Center, and the Lubbock County District Attorney’s Office, the program has become the most requested fentanyl awareness presentation in the South Plains region. It has been presented to numerous local schools, including to the Texas Tech football team. The program provides candid, factual information from people in recovery, overdose survivors, and families of overdose victims. It is credited with raising public awareness and contributing to a reduction in overdoses in the region.

    HIDTA SUPPORT

    Atlanta Carolinas HIDTA, Lydia Sheffield

    Lydia Sheffield has served the Atlanta Carolinas HIDTA for two decades, providing continuity with her outstanding support to three executive directors. In addition to her myriad duties as the Executive Assistant, Ms. Sheffield is the primary Performance Management Process (PMP) Coordinator for the HIDTA, and has established herself as an expert user of PMP. In that role, she has generously provided training to PMP users from multiple other regional HIDTAs at the behest of the National HIDTA Assistance Center and to National HIDTA Program staff. Ms. Sheffield has drawn upon her own background and experience as a skilled trainer to develop curriculum materials to support trainings to both peer PMP coordinators and initiative commanders across the United States.

    INVESTIGATION INVOLVING INNOVATIVE APPROACHES

    Gulf Coast HIDTA, Mobile Baldwin Major Investigations Team

    In 2023, the Mobile Baldwin Major Investigations Team (MBMIT) began investigating a deactivated DEA confidential source who was coordinating large shipments of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine from Texas and Georgia into the Mobile, Alabama area. Because the former source was familiar with law enforcement communication and investigative techniques and was still being used by local law enforcement agencies, the source was emboldened to conduct illicit drug-related transactions via an end-to-end encrypted phone app. MBMIT agents successfully executed a search warrant to clone the source’s phone and initiated real-time Title III intercepts of the encrypted app. This was the first time an end-to-end encryption application was successfully intercepted in the New Orleans Division and only the third time this type of intercept had been conducted worldwide within DEA. The success of this investigative technique enabled 120 electronic and voice Title III intercepts resulting in 24 state and federal arrests, the seizure of 19 kilograms of cocaine and 20 kilograms of methamphetamine, and the seizure of over $500,000 in cash, jewelry, and vehicles. Additionally, these intercepts lead to the identification and follow-on investigation of regional drug traffickers in the United States with links to multiple Mexican TCOs.

    INTELLIGENCE AND INFORMATION SHARING

    Nevada HIDTA, Investigative Research Assistant Phillip Scichilone

    In early 2024, the Nevada Highway Patrol received a tip regarding a suspicious trucking company suspected of transporting illicit drugs from northern Nevada across the county, and subsequently passed the tip to Investigative Research Assistant Phillip Scichilone. Mr. Scichilone provided Northern Nevada Interdiction Task Force members with key intelligence related to the travel patterns of the vehicle involved, suspicious financial activity of the trucking company, and identification of the suspected owner and driver of the vehicle. The task force used this information to interdict the vehicle involved, resulting in the seizure of approximately $1 million and the identification of the driver and passenger, who were suspected of being linked to a known terrorist organization. After conducting follow-up analysis linking the suspects to out-of-state DEA and FBI investigations, Mr. Scichilone connected representatives of both agencies to deconflict and share information and then worked with both agencies to pass on key intelligence information.

    INTERDICTION

    New England HIDTA, Greater Boston HIDTA Task Force

    The Greater Boston HIDTA Task Force, co-led by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), initiated an investigation targeting a California-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) involved in large-scale illicit drug smuggling, distribution, and transportation from the Southwest Border to destinations throughout the United States and Canada. The initial phase of this ongoing investigation resulted in the disruption of a large-scale criminal enterprise with two arrests and the interdiction of 32 kilograms of methamphetamine and 490 kilograms of cocaine from a tractor trailer that traveled cross country to meet with undercover law enforcement agents in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts State Police have claimed this to be the largest seizure of narcotics from a tractor trailer in New England history, and the ongoing investigation has wide-ranging impact on DTO operations in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

    INVESTIGATION INVOLVING A VIOLENT ORGANIZATION

    Texoma HIDTA, ATF Oklahoma City Violent Crime Initiative

    The ATF Oklahoma City Violent Crime Initiative led interagency Operation Sonic Boom that used information from the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to overlay maps of Oklahoma City with shooting incidents to identify critical, high gun violence areas to deploy additional resources. In a 60-day operation, ATF Confidential Sources and Undercover Agents conducted 117 undercover firearm purchases that led to the indictment of 64 defendants and the seizure of 110 firearms, 83 machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), 53 kilograms of methamphetamine, 5 kilograms of cocaine, and more than 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl tablets. Highlighting the critical links between the undercover operations in this case and the ongoing violent crime investigations in Oklahoma City, twelve of the firearms purchased by undercover agents had confirmed links in NIBIN to open shooting and homicide cases by violent criminal gangs in the greater Oklahoma City area. From a HIDTA perspective, the case was also a statistical success, with investigators identifying eight separate Drug Trafficking or Money Laundering Organizations and disrupting six of them during the course of the operation. 

    COMMUNITY IMPACT INVESTIGATION

    Northwest HIDTA, DEA Bellingham Regional HIDTA Task Force

    Over the past year, the DEA Bellingham Regional HIDTA Task Force (BRHTF) initiated an investigation that resulted in a substantial impact concerning public safety and health on the greater Lummi Nation Tribal Lands. Over a one-year period, BRHTF, along with partner agencies, seized over 850,000 fentanyl pills, seven kilograms of fentanyl powder, seven kilograms of cocaine, 29 illicit firearms, over $120,000 in U.S. currency, and disrupted a centralized DTO responsible for trafficking and distributing fentanyl and other drugs in the Lummi Nation within Whatcom County, WA. This investigation resulted in a notable decrease in both fentanyl availability and overdose deaths on Lummi Tribal Lands.

    OVERDOSE REDUCTION

    South Texas HIDTA, Laredo DEA HIDTA Task Force

    In 2023, the DEA Laredo District Office created a HIDTA Overdose Task Force initiative to address the dramatic rise in overdose deaths in Laredo, Texas, and its surrounding communities. The City of Laredo experienced 21 overdose deaths in 2021, rose to 41 overdose deaths in 2022, and was on pace to experience nearly 100 overdose deaths in 2023, when the task force was launched. Formed with multiple local and federal agencies and comprising six task force officers, the task force proved to be effective, with Laredo reporting 73 deaths in 2023, well short of the expected numbers. Throughout 2024, Laredo and its surrounding communities experienced 40 overdose deaths, and preliminary data indicate the city is on pace for a remarkable 45 percent decrease.

    INVESTIGATION

    Arizona HIDTA, Metro Intelligence Support and Technical Investigative Center (MISTIC)

    Throughout 2024, the Phoenix Police Department (PPD) Drug Enforcement Bureau’s (DEB) Conspiracy Squad and the DEA Phoenix Field Division’s Financial Investigations Group (FIG) conducted a long-term, complex investigation that targeted a TCO responsible for the trafficking and distribution of bulk quantities of illicit drugs, as well as for money laundering. Investigators conducted 2,000 hours of surveillance, utilized 225 court orders and search warrants, and initiated 35 wire intercepts targeting TCO members. Through the course of this investigation, detectives identified, disrupted, and dismantled the international drug trafficking activities of both foreign and United States-based sources of supply, load coordinators, couriers, stash house operators, and distribution coordinators, while also dismantling metropolitan Phoenix-based DTO operations.

    TASK FORCE OF THE YEAR

    Appalachia HIDTA, Appalachia HIDTA Diversion Task Force

    In response to an influx of counterfeit pharmaceuticals flooding southeastern Kentucky that were contributing to a rise in drug poisoning deaths, investigators with the Appalachia HIDTA Diversion Drug Task Force initiated an investigation into a dark net market distributor operating under the name GreenBeansUSA. This investigation was conducted jointly with the Appalachia HIDTA DEA London Task Force in coordination with the FBI, Internal Revenue Service, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service under the OCDETF Operation “Loyal Business.” Investigators identified GreenBeansUSA as a global supplier responsible for the sale and distribution of over 16 million counterfeit pharmaceutical pills, and the receipt of over $11 million in drug proceeds in the form of illicit cryptocurrency. In the course of the operation, investigators issued more than 200 grand jury subpoenas, 47 pen registers, 8 ping orders, Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) requests, IP analysis, blockchain and cluster analysis, 2703(d) orders, undercover purchases, undercover money laundering operations, pole cameras, and electronic search warrants to multiple telecommunications and technological entities. Their efforts resulted in federal indictments of six key members of the organization, the seizure of 11 kilograms of controlled pharmaceuticals (nitazene, benzodiazepine, and ketamine), six pill press machines, and approximately $1.2 million in assets.

    HIDTA AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

    Ohio HIDTA, Sergeant Breck Williamson, Ohio State Highway Patrol

    Sergeant Breck Williamson has distinguished himself as both a prolific and successful interdictor of illicit drugs transiting the nation’s highways, and as an expert instructor and mentor to other officers conducting highway interdictions. Since October 2023, Sergeant Williamson has personally seized over 405 pounds of methamphetamines, 11 pounds of fentanyl, 141 pounds of cocaine, 3,203 pounds of marijuana, and $135,000 in U.S. currency. He also serves as an instructor for both the El Paso Intelligence Center (EPIC) and the Drug Interdiction Awareness Program (DIAP), sharing his expertise with hundreds of students throughout the past year. In addition to his day-to-day supervisory and highway interdiction duties, Sergeant Williamson is a DEA task force officer and is regularly called upon by DEA offices nationwide to advise on interdiction tactics and techniques.

    HIDTA OF THE YEAR

    SOUTH FLORIDA HIDTA

    The South Florida HIDTA has demonstrated an exemplary capacity for multidimensional vision and leadership. Through its Executive Director and Executive Board, it has targeted emerging threats, such as synthetic drugs, while remaining steadfastly committed to the interdiction of metric tons of cocaine destined for the United States from South America. It has inspired national efforts, like the launch of Crime Gun Intelligence Centers in HIDTA regions across the United States, without losing focus of the core HIDTA mission to disrupt and dismantle DTOs and while maintaining deep and sustaining partnerships at the local level. It has launched enterprising collaborations with law enforcement partners, such as partnering with the Federal Aviation Administration to access radar interdiction operability and records of straw registration of aircraft, while embracing public health initiatives focused on overdose reduction and drug use prevention.

    Among its many accomplishments, in 2023 South Florida HIDTA initiatives dismantled or disrupted 54 DTOs, of which 19 were international in scope and nearly 20 percent were OCDETF-designated or linked to consolidated or regional priority organization targets. Task forces seized illicit drugs with a total estimated value of $748 million, including 23 metric tons of cocaine, 248 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 224 kilograms of fentanyl. South Florida HIDTA initiatives also seized more than $105 million in cash and other assets, delivering a return on investment of $56.22 for every dollar financed by the National HIDTA Program. Finally, in pursuit of one of its most vital functions – ensuring officer safety – the South Florida HIDTA provided deconfliction services to all its partners, preventing more than 400 “blue on blue” incidents.

    MIL OSI USA News –