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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    A BROAD and diverse programme of activities has been revealed in Dundee as the city once again supports one of the world’s biggest campaigns on preventing violence against women and girls.
    The Dundee Violence Against Women Partnership has created a series of events which will run during 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, a global campaign to inspire people to learn, reflect and act to end violence against women.
    This year the centrepiece of the city’s response will be the theme Imagine if Dundee said: “No More”, with the sub-strands stand with us, learn with us and believe us.
    Ann Hamilton who is the Independent Adviser on Violence Against Women to the city’s Protecting People Chief Officers’ group and committees said: “While it would be great not to have to highlight the issue of violence against women and girls each year, one of the key things to help us get there is to make sure that those who have experienced it are believed and endorsed.
    “That’s what 16 Days of Activism is focussed on this year in Dundee, with one of the biggest and most diverse programmes we have put on to date.
    “As well as thought-provoking, energising and entertaining events for the public to enjoy or participate in, there is a detailed series of activities for professionals working in the field to enhance and extend their knowledge in areas like abusive cultural practices and understanding domestic abuse.”
    The 16 Days programme will launch on Monday November 18 at the Hilltown Community Centre with the first of a number of travelling roadshows which will include an information session featuring the bystander approach, a conversation café, creative session (including banner making) and a dance workshop with Urban Moves that will include the option to take part in the finale show on December 10.
    Travelling roadshows will also visit other community venues throughout the 16 Days including Kirkton, Finmill and Douglas community centres and YMCA Broughty Ferry.
    On Monday November 25 WRASAC will be teaming up with the V&A for an evening of information about WRASAC and the difference it makes for survivors in Dundee and Angus. Team members will be sharing feedback and looking at how WRASAC has formed over the last 40 years.
    The Reclaim the Night march takes place on Friday November 29 starting at The Steeple Church at 6.30pm with a rallying cry before returning to the venue for speeches and music.
    On Friday December 6 Women’s Aid will be at Cake and Dice in Commercial Street to share more about their history in a relaxing, safe and welcoming environment. Guests can add to their local timeline spotlighting milestones for women and amplifying the voices of lived experience in Dundee..
    Open to everyone throughout the 16 Days of Activism, The Lady Chapel of St Paul’s Cathedral in High Street will be available as a quiet space for reflection with resources for contemplation and support on hand.
    Activities will conclude on Tuesday December 10 at Abertay University Main Lecture Theatre in Bell Street with Together We Stand: A Creative Call for Change which will see an evening filled with positive messages, hope and strength and will include Urban Moves, Pirrie Performing Arts, Tori Barclay School of Dance and MLU Squad.
    Full details of this year’s programme of events in Dundee for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence can be found at:  https://sway.cloud.microsoft/rhZUto3jPfMcEV1Y?ref=Link

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool to stage major conference on tackling hate crime

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Last updated:

    Liverpool will host a major conference today (Friday, 18 October) that will explore the reasons that led to the riots following the fatal stabbings in Southport in August.

    The “Hate Crime Together” conference, the first of its kind in the city region this decade, will also look at the events that led to the riots in the city which culminated in the torching of Spellow Library in Walton.

    Held in the Merseyside Maritime Museum, in the Royal Albert Dock, the event will be led by Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell who will address delegates with a keynote speech emphasising the work to reject those that sow and spread hatred and division.

    Emily will also be joined by speakers such as Rose Simkins, CEO of StopHateUK and Kaushik Mistry, CEO of the Anthony Walker Foundation, with the conference the final event in the region to mark National Hate Crime Awareness Week.

    Many delegates at the conference will also be wearing red in honour of Show Racism the Red Card day.

    Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for Neighbourhoods and Community Safety, will also set out a pledge for all major partners across the city region to deliver on three key commitments:

    1. Raise awareness and challenge hate-based behaviour in order to advance equality, diversity, and inclusion across the Liverpool City Region.
    2. Increase confidence to report hate crime to the police and partners.
    3. Provide consistent and effective support for victims by promoting collaboration across all agencies.

    The event brings more than 100 partners together to focus on how they can work collaboratively to tackle hate and make communities safer.

    Merseyside Police and all five local authorities, as well as Victim Care Merseyside support services and other third sector services, will re-confirm the region’s commitment to reducing hate crime, sharing experience and knowledge.

    In light of the recent disorder in the summer, additional hate crime awareness sessions have been planned for Black and ethnic minority groups and associations to provide extra support and reassurance. 

    There has also been various workshops in primary and secondary schools, colleges, job centres, councils, and LGBTQ+ and disability community groups to increase awareness of the support available.

    Rose Simkins, CEO of StopHateUK, said: “During the recent riots, many became more aware of the dangers of hate, but at Stop Hate UK, we see these risks every day. That’s why we’re here to support victims and witnesses of hate crime 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Thanks to funding from Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner, we’re able to continue providing this vital service to those in need. Stop Hate UK is pleased to be a part of this conference, bringing partners together to share experiences and work towards making our communities safer.”

    Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: “Tackling hate crime is a priority for me, so I am incredibly pleased to be opening the LCR Tackling Hate Crime Together conference and pledging my continued support to preventing and reducing hate crime, improving the support for victims and making our communities safer, happier places to live.

    “Sadly, the appalling scenes of violence and disorder recently here on Merseyside were clearly manipulated and motivated by racism and islamophobia. They are a stark reminder of why we must do everything possible to tackle hate in all its despicable forms, standing together to send out a message that hate is not welcome here.

    “I look forward to uniting with partners at this event to share learning, experiences and best practice to further strengthen the work which is taking place across the region to tackle hate crime and make our communities safer.”

    Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for Community Safety, said: “What we all witnessed across the UK in the wake of tragic of events in Southport highlighted how much work needs to be done to tackle racism in our communities.

    “Ignorance fuels hatred and the way to combat that is through education – at all levels with all ages. We must stretch every sinew to ensure people know that such behaviour will never be tolerated and highlight at every opportunity why such views are just wrong.

    “It’s hugely encouraging to see so many partners come together from right across the region to unite and join our collective forces with the pledge to redouble our efforts in how we tackle hate crime and to reassure all minority groups – be that race, gender, faith – that they have our full support in stamping such behaviour out.”

    Detective Superintendent Joe Marston, Hate Crime Lead for Merseyside Police, said: “We are dedicated to addressing hate crime because we understand the significant impact it can have on our victims and our communities.

    “It’s great to be part of this conference where, along with our partners, we can showcase the efforts being made to combat different forms of hate crime and the support options available. This event is also an important opportunity to emphasise the importance of reporting hate crime and to listen to victims sharing their experiences. This will help educate us on how to increase the confidence of others to come forward in the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Blog | Pioneering community cultural engagement in Liverpool

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council’s Culture Liverpool team have joined forces with the arts organisation Metal to push the boundaries of mass, cultural participation events. Metal’s Director Jenny Porter tells us more.

    Picton Play is a programme of resident engagement that focuses on communities in Toxteth, Wavertree, the Smithdown Road area, Edge Hill and Kensington.

    The programme organised by the arts organisation – Metal – starts by looking at what’s already in the community and then develops different ways to encourage participation.

    One strand was with Josh Coates, a performance-based artist, who held a listening residency at the ASDA car park on Smithdown Road. Next, came two further residencies, one on the 86 bus route with Nicki McCubbing and one in Wavertree Botanic Park with Andrea Ku.

    The residencies afforded artists the freedom to explore spaces in our neighbourhoods not usually associated with creativity and to connect with local businesses and community groups such as Arriva and the Friends of Botanic Park.

    The next phase of the project will be a co-production with a community decision-making board of local residents, affectionately known as The Mystery Dreamers. The group is named after Wavertree Park, which is known locally as The Mystery as it was donated to the City by an anonymous city well-wisher.

    The plan is to produce an ambitious mass-participatory artwork, which will engage local residents. It’s an experiment in cultural democracy that pushes boundaries and forges new relationships between artists, arts organisations and communities at a neighbourhood level.

    The project puts the creative decisions into the hands of the residents. The outcome will celebrate the creativity of Picton’s residents in a playful way, using the theme of mysteries and mythologies that lie beneath the surface.

    The outcome will be a model for inclusive and innovative mass-participatory performance practice, that will go beyond artistic expression, with the potential to shape and enhance the social fabric of this community.

    For Metal, as a national organisation, Picton Play acts as a testing platform for our sites in Southend and Peterborough. We have a fantastic relationship with Liverpool City Council who give us the freedom to experiment, and the people of Liverpool are so warm and generous with their time, as well as being wonderfully creative with their ideas.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Women’s health campaigner Mariella Frostrup appointed as Government Menopause Employment Ambassador

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ambassador to work with employers to help women experiencing menopause symptoms to stay in work and progress in their careers.

    • Leading campaigner and broadcaster Mariella Frostrup appointed as Government’s new Menopause Employment Ambassador.
    • Appointment comes alongside measures in the Employment Rights Bill requiring large employers to produce plans on how they will support employees through the menopause.

    Journalist and women’s equality campaigner, Mariella Frostrup, has been appointed as the government’s new Menopause Employment Ambassador.

    The voluntary role will see Mariella working closely with employers across the country to improve workplace support for women experiencing the menopause, raise awareness of the symptoms and champion the economic contributions of women. A key focus will be helping women going through the menopause stay in work and progress in their careers.

    Almost 70% of women aged 40 to 60 in employment experiencing menopausal symptoms report this has a negative effect on them at work, and just over 50% are unable to go into work at some point due to menopause symptoms.

    With decades of experience championing women’s rights and gender equality across the world, with passionate advocacy for increased awareness of the symptoms of menopause, Mariella brings a powerful and unique voice to the Department for Work and Pensions.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:

    If we are going to get our country growing again, we have to make sure that everyone feels they can thrive at work. I know from personal experience how hard it can be for women going through menopause.

    I’m so thrilled that Mariella will be working with us to bring her years of knowledge and experience on this issue, so we can make sure that all women experiencing menopause symptoms get the support they need at work.

    Menopause Employment Ambassador, Mariella Frostrup said:

    I’m honoured and delighted to be appointed as the Government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador and to start working towards this government’s stated goal of creating fair and equitable workplaces for all.

    The loss of one in ten women from the workplace, often at the height of their professional careers, is damaging our economy and causing unnecessary suffering due to lack of information and support during this perfectly natural and manageable phase of life.

    I’m excited to get started and continue the important work done by my predecessor Helen Tomlinson to engage with businesses small and large and find solutions to what continues to be a gender specific inequity.

    Baroness Merron, Minister for Patient Safety, Women’s Health and Mental Health, said:

    I am delighted that Mariella Frostrup has been appointed into this important role. I look forward to working with her to champion women’s health and improve menopause support, alongside the Women’s Health Ambassador for England, Professor Dame Lesley Regan.

    We know there is a long way to go in improving support for women experiencing menopause, particularly in the workplace, and this government is committed to providing the care and support for all women to thrive.

    Janet Lindsay, Chief Executive of Wellbeing of Women:

    We are delighted that Mariella has been appointed as the new Menopause Employment Ambassador. As Wellbeing of Women’s ambassador and in her wider work, Mariella has been a tireless campaigner working to raise awareness of the need to support women going through the menopause in all areas of life.

    We look forward to working with her to help all employers become more menopause friendly, especially those who often struggle to do so, such as small to medium businesses and those employing women who cannot work remotely.

    This appointment comes as the government has proposed a wide-ranging set of generational reforms to boost protections for workers, including women experiencing menopause symptoms at work. The policy proposals in the Employment Rights Bill would require large employers to produce Menopause Action Plans on how they will support employees through the menopause.

    Further Information

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE Student Wins Youth World Combat Sambo Championship

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    A first-year student of the ICEF International Bachelor’s Program in Economics and Finance, Georgy Khvatkin, won gold at the World Youth Championship in Combat Sambo. The competition was held in Larnaca, Republic of Cyprus, and was attended by 575 athletes from 33 countries. Georgy won in the 98 kg weight category. In an express interview with the champion, Master of Sports Georgy Khvatkin, we talk about how the important decision to enter ICEF was made, how long and how many days a week Georgy has been training, what Jackie Chan has to do with it, and how great it is to have a beloved twin sister.

    From the personal archive of Georgy Khvatkin

    – Georgy, congratulations on your gold, we are proud of such a student! How and why did you decide to enter ICEF? What were your guidelines?

    – Entering ICEF was a conscious decision. My parents found out about ICEF first. They both graduated from the Philology Department of Moscow State University, and then my dad got a law degree, and my mom got an economics degree. My mom is very knowledgeable about economics and helped us choose a profession. We studied the information together and considered all the possibilities. An important factor was studying in English and getting a second diploma. We decided that this opened up great prospects. We did not consider other universities. My sister Katya and I (we are twins) prepared for the Unified State Exam and admission over the course of four school years.

    My sister and I graduated from the Moscow Russian-British school “Algorithm”, where we transferred in the seventh grade, with gold medals. And now we both study in the same bachelor’s degree group at the International Institute of Economics and Finance. Katya is my best friend. By the way, she is also successful in sports, she is a candidate for master of sports in synchronized swimming.

    – The school year has started intensively. Which subjects are coming to the forefront in terms of interest?

    – All subjects are interesting to me, all of them “caught” my attention. Largely thanks to the teaching staff. It feels like the teachers are professionals in their field, I value them all very much. I would like to separately mention Yaroslav Aleksandrovich Lyulko, who teaches “Probability Theory and Statistics”. It seems to me that this subject opens up the greatest opportunities for me as a student.

    The first few days were, of course, a bit difficult, considering how much sport there is in my life. It was also difficult because I was faced with topics that were completely new to me, but with the help of teachers and friends I figured it out and found solutions.

    I have the best group (I guess everyone says so?!): cool guys with whom I have many common interests. I already felt that ICEF is one big family, where teachers, classmates, senior students help each other.

    Studying in English turned out to be easier than I thought. I have been studying the language intensively since early childhood, and the introductory intensive course in English at the beginning of September also helped me a lot.

    – Now about your sports career. Why did you start doing sambo and how do your trainings go?

    Initially, I was involved in swimming. My dad played water polo all his life, my sister did synchronized swimming, a pool was always present in our life. And when I got interested in action movies with Jackie Chan at the age of 6-7, I became interested in martial arts. But for some reason I formulated that I wanted to do wrestling, and my dad sent me to the sambo section.

    In everyday life, when there are no competitions, I train 4-5 times a week on weekdays. During the preparation period for competitions, I start to increase the pace two months in advance. Specifically, before the Youth World Combat Sambo Championship in Larnaca, I trained two to three times a day for a month, including independent training in the form of jogging.

    – You train at the famous Sambo-70 club, and where else?

    I train in different clubs. This allows me to quickly acquire different techniques, improve in different directions. My main coach is Honored Coach of Russia Nikolay Anatolyevich Elesin, an absolute authority in the world of MMA and combat sambo. I also train at the “Boxing Progress Center” with Ali Piduriyev, and sometimes I go to wrestling days at the “Club of Professor E.L. Gloriozov”, where I work with coach Denis Igorevich Davydov.

    – Were there moments when you wanted to quit sambo?

    Yes, it happened several times. At some point, a lot of studying piled up, and in sports there were offensive and annoying defeats. I want to note the enormous support of the whole family, which did not let me do this, for which I am incredibly grateful to them all.

    – Do you have any idols in sports?

    I don’t really like the word “idol”. As I understand it, this word means to elevate someone to the level of a deity. There are people I look up to and who I like in sports. First of all, this is the legend of Russian sports Fedor Emelianenko, a four-time world champion in combat sambo. I really like the style of work on the mat of the famous sambo wrestler Denis Goltsov. I follow all his performances, try to adopt some of his techniques.

    – Out of the one and a half months of your student life, you trained two or three times a day, five days a week. How much time was left for studying? How do you manage to combine such different intensive loads?

    Of course, it is very difficult to combine sports and studies. I have to integrate training into my study schedule, so my schedule is always flexible – sometimes I will work out in the morning, sometimes more in the evening. Before tests and quizzes I reduce the number of trainings, and when it comes to studying I sometimes resort to the help of my parents, sister and friends.

    The life of a student and an athlete are similar in many ways, because it is a huge amount of independent work that you have to do. To do this, you simply need to master time management: you need to distribute your time literally by the hour in advance, so that you can do everything, and save energy somewhere, and have time to recover.

    Every week I create a schedule for the entire week to help me productively combine both studying and training.

    Now the loads in sports will decrease. But periods of high intensive load in my life are inevitable. I have to sacrifice my personal life – I manage to meet with friends once a month. This year, due to preparation for the World Championship, I unfortunately missed all the selections for student organizations that I would like to join. I hope I will have time next year.

    And for the sake of sporting honor, the IIEF is always ready to participate in competitions.

    – Have you ever found yourself in situations where circumstances pushed you to use your athletic skills in life?

    There are situations in life when you are provoked or you see that other people are provoked. I am sure that a truly strong person is not the one who knows how to fight and use physical force, but the one who knows how to resolve any issue in a conversation, in a dialogue. I believe that an athlete at such a level has no right to use his professional skills in life.

    – The student champion will hardly be able to rest on his laurels. What are your immediate plans?

    In sports, it is the Moscow Championship, selection for the Russian Championship, if we manage to win, we will go to the World Championship again. I still have 2 years to compete in juniors. It is very serious preparation before competitions in the senior age group, where I will have to compete with seasoned athletes. In terms of studies, it is midterms, exams. I would like to pass everything well and continue studying.

    – Georgy, thank you and further victories in everything!

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://isef.hse.ru/nevs/975622782.html

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Agillic patents large-scale personalised communication solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release, Copenhagen, 18 October 2024

    Agillic has achieved a Danish patent for its unique method for processing large-scale, real-time data processing. 

    The method reduces the complexity and efforts required to carry out such processing compared to other solutions leading to lower power consumption and lower financial operating costs.

    The Agillic platform has long been a leap forward in marketing technology, empowering brands to deliver personalised, real-time, and scalable customer experiences across channels, positioning them – and Agillic – at the forefront of omnichannel marketing.

    Says Martin Lindboe, Chief Technology Officer:
    “We are thrilled to achieve the patent, acknowledging the efforts behind our unique and highly effective solution for large-scale data communication. With this patent, we are reinforcing our commitment to innovation and supporting brands in creating seamless, data-driven customer engagement that drive results in the most efficient way possible.”

    For further information, please contact
    Emre Gürsoy, CEO, Agillic A/S
    +45 3078 4200
    emre.gursoy@agillic.com

    About Agillic A/S
    Agillic (Nasdaq First North Growth Market Copenhagen: AGILC) is a Danish software company offering brands a platform through which they can work with data-driven insights and content to create, automate and send personalised communication to millions. Agillic is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, with teams in Germany, Norway, and Romania.
    Agillic A/S – Masnedøgade 22 – 2100 Copenhagen – Denmark – www.agillic.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How farmers can use solar power without damaging the rest of their operation

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Austin Kay, Researcher in Sustainable Advanced Materials, Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials, Swansea University

    Snapshot freddy/Shutterstock

    As the world races to meet net-zero targets, emissions from all industrial sectors must be reduced more urgently than ever. Agriculture is an important area of focus as it contributes up to 22% of global greenhouse gas emissions – almost as much as the energy sector.

    One approach to decarbonising the agricultural sector is agrivoltaics. It involves integrating solar panels – or photovoltaics (PVs) – into fields of crops, greenhouses and livestock areas, which can help farmers reduce their carbon footprint while continuing to produce food.

    Agrivoltaics can also mitigate one of the main criticisms often made of solar power – that solar farms “waste” vast tracts of agricultural land that could otherwise be used for food production. In reality, solar farms currently occupy only 0.15% of the UK’s total land – not much compared to its 70% agricultural land.

    The simplest example of an agrivoltaic system would be conventional, crystalline silicon PVs (the market-leading type of solar panels), installed in fields alongside livestock. This method of farm diversification has become increasingly popular in recent years for three main reasons.

    First, it enhances biodiversity as the fields are not seeing a regular crop rotation, being monocultured, or being harvested for silage. Second, it increases production as livestock benefit from the shade and the healthier pasture growth.

    Finally, the solar farm has reduced maintenance costs because livestock can keep the grass short. All this is achieved while the solar panels provide locally-generated, clean energy.

    But if they’re not set up properly, agrivoltaics may cause problems. One of the most important challenges is balancing the need for sunlight between crops and solar panels. Crops need light to grow, and if solar panels block too much sunlight, they can negatively impact crop yields.

    This issue varies from place to place. In countries with fewer sunny days like the UK, the panels need to let more sunlight through. But in places like Spain or Italy, some shade can actually help crops by reducing the stress of intense heat during summer months. Finding the right balance is tricky, as it depends on local conditions, the type of crop, and even the needs of pollinators like bees.

    An agrivoltaic canopy installed in France.
    Jacopo Landi/Shutterstock

    The complexity deepens when we consider the type of PV material used. Traditional solar panels aren’t always suitable because they often block the wavelengths (colours) of light needed by plants.

    This is where newer materials, like organic semiconductors and perovskites, are ideal as they can be customised to let crops get the light they need while still generating energy. Unlike traditional inorganic semiconductors, which are essentially crystals of metal and metalloid atoms, organic semiconductors are molecules mainly made of carbon and hydrogen. Perovskites, meanwhile, are like a hybrid of the two.

    But there are thousands of combinations of these materials to choose from, with scientific literature containing a plethora of options. Figuring out which one works best can be a daunting task.

    This is where computational tools can make a big difference. Instead of testing each material in real-world conditions – which would take years and be incredibly expensive – researchers can use simulations to predict their performance. These models can help identify the best materials for specific crops and climates, saving both time and resources.

    The tool

    We have developed an open-source tool that helps compare various PV materials, making it easier to identify the best options for agrivoltaics. Our tool uses geographical data and realistic simulations of how different PV materials perform.

    It considers how light travels through these materials and reflects off them, as well as other important performance measures like voltage and power output. The tool can also take lab-based measurements of PV materials and apply them to real-world scenarios.

    Using this tool, we simulated how much power different PV materials could generate per square metre over the course of a year, across various regions. And we calculated how much light passed through these materials to ensure it was enough for crops to thrive.

    An agrivoltaic installation over raspberry crops in the Netherlands.
    Jacopo Landi/Shutterstock

    By running these simulations for multiple materials, we could identify the most suitable options for specific crops and climates.

    Tools like ours could play a critical role in decarbonising the agricultural sector by guiding the design of agrivoltaic systems. Future research could combine these simulations with economic and environmental impact analyses. This would help us understand how much energy we can expect from a solar panel over its lifetime compared to the resources and costs involved in producing it.

    Ultimately, our tool could help researchers and policymakers in selecting the most efficient, cost-effective and eco-friendly ways to decarbonise agriculture and move us closer to achieving global net-zero emissions.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 35,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Austin Kay is a Postgraduate Student at Swansea University and receives funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) through program grant EP/T028513/1 Application Targeted and Integrated Photovoltaics.

    – ref. How farmers can use solar power without damaging the rest of their operation – https://theconversation.com/how-farmers-can-use-solar-power-without-damaging-the-rest-of-their-operation-239625

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Our Town Hall: Portraits of a Workforce exhibition

    Source: City of Manchester

    Leah Finch, a Construction Manager for Lendlease

    A new exhibition at Manchester Central Library is set to focus on some of the skilled craftspeople, artisan trades and construction team behind the current transformation of Manchester’s Town Hall.

    Extraordinarily little is known about the artisans who built the Town Hall between 1868 and 1877, and certainly no photographs exist.  

    Fast forward around 150 years and today’s skilled workers are no strangers to the lens of Manchester City Council photographer Barrie Leach, whose visual catalogue captures portraits of those working on the Town Hall since the beginning of the project to repair, restore and refurbish this much-loved building.  

    The exhibition’s focus is to highlight some of the people behind the work. As well as modern construction workers and the behind-the-scenes staff who make it all possible there are some incredible heritage trades involved. Stonemasonry, mosaic making, stained glass repair and manufacture, horology: these are all crafts that would have been widespread in the 1870s but are now very much specialist – and rare – trades.  They are, however, critical to our restoration project.  

    The project to safeguard the building for current and future generations needed hundreds of these time-served tradespeople, who have come together to make the building safe and accessible.   As a result of bringing in these expert professionals, hundreds more Mancunians have had the opportunity to gain – or be inspired by – these skills, through school and work placements, apprenticeships and new jobs. These trainees and employees play a key part in keeping these precious skills alive. 

    Thirty large portraits and 60 smaller contextual images in the exhibition show the pride that the modern team have discovered in being able to lovingly restore, and give new life to, the work of the forgotten workforce who went before them.  

    The exhibition is divided into 10 zones concentrating on the people and work taking place throughout the building where work has been happening including; ground floor and courtyard, interiors, state rooms, Great Hall, Clock Tower, collections, exterior, roof, Albert Square and Albert Memorial, and behind the scenes. 

    As work on the Our Town Hall project continues to bring it up to modern safety standards, improving access to the building and its artefacts, and creating a new visitor attraction, the photographic record is also ongoing: only a small selection of the images is on show in this first exhibition. The full collection will form part of the historical archive, telling the stories of the people who lovingly restored the Town Hall for all to see. 

    The exhibition will run in Manchester Central Library’s first floor exhibition space from Friday 18 October 2024 until June 2025. 

    Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said: “This new exhibition is a celebration of the work taking place behind the Town Hall hoardings which few people have had the privilege to witness.  It is our way of ensuring that today’s artisans will not be forgotten.  Just as the skills of those who helped create the building in the 19th Century have left the city a magnificent legacy, so will today’s project team. Working on this project is a real labour of love.  

    “We knew from the outset that this was going to be a mammoth task, and we wanted to capture and share the journey of all those who have taken part.  We wanted to celebrate the role of all the workers on the team and show as much of the range of trades – modern and not–so–modern – required to complete the transformation of our iconic Town Hall.  The bonus is that – in doing so – we have also created a wonderful visual archive for reference in years and generations to come. We can’t wait to share it with Manchester people and visitors.”  

    Leah Finch, a Construction Manager for Lendlease, started work on the project as an apprentice. She said: “I completely fell into this opportunity, and I’m thankful. I applied through the Government website as I was looking for an apprenticeship.  Every day offers a new reason to have a great day: delivering a meeting, speaking to new people, handing over an element of work or seeing progress in my work areas.   

     It’s given me so much responsibility and accountability. I’m proudest of managing the lower ground floor: co-ordinating all trade work on that level, working through blockers, ensuring a high standard of quality, and ultimately driving for completion.  I feel heard and respected; I am a valued member of the team. The people truly make working on the Town Hall special.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Chief Executive at Together for Children and Children’s Services director.

    Source: City of Sunderland

    A new Chief Executive at Together for Children (TfC) and director of Children’s Services has been appointed.

    Simon Marshall (56) is a former headteacher and has been Sunderland’s Director of Education since 2017. He succeeds TfC’s Chief Executive Jill Colbert OBE who has joined Nottingham City Council.

    As TfC lead and children’s services director, Mr Marshall said he will continue delivering the highest quality children’s social care, education and early help services, all the necessary infrastructure, and leading 1,100 members of staff.

    In its most recent full Ofsted inspection in 2021, TfC and Sunderland Children’s Services were rated as ‘outstanding’. In the last 18 months, Ofsted inspections of children’s homes and child protection plans have also been rated ‘outstanding’ and ‘timely and effective’, respectively.

    Mr Marshall was a headteacher for 12 years before being appointed as the city’s Director of Education. This included being head at Sunderland’s Highfield Primary School where he was recognised nationally for developing innovative school-based mental health services to support children and families. In 2014 he was named School Leader of the year in the National Wellbeing School Awards. 

    The City Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Child Poverty and Skills, Councillor Michael Butler said: “We are delighted to confirm Simon’s appointment as Chief Executive and children’s services director. We all look forward to more work with him and continuing to ensure that we offer and provide the very best for children, young people and families across the city.”

    As education director, Mr Marshall has in the last five years overseen more than £24m of extra investment in Special Educational Needs (SEND) provision, including extra places for more than 250 children and expanded facilities. He has also developed a highly successful school improvements service that delivers training to schools across the city and the North East region.

    Commenting on his new appointment as TfC Chief Executive and children’s services lead, Mr Marshall said: “I want to put on the record a thanks to my predecessor Jill Colbert OBE for the exemplary leadership, team and partnership work that she helped inspire at Together for Children.

    “We will continue to deliver services for all our children and young people so they lead safe, happy, healthy and successful lives, and in a city where they can fulfil and realise their full potential.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Partnership recognised for work to support Sunderland’s Armed Forces

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Sunderland’s Armed Forces Partnership (AFP) is celebrating winning a prestigious award for supporting the city’s Armed Forces community.

    The partnership has won the Working Together award in this year’s Soldiering On Awards, which were held on Wednesday, 16th October 2024.

    The Working Together award honours a group of people, team or organisation that has successfully taken a collaborative approach to supporting the Armed Forces community.

    Sunderland’s AFP is an alliance between the council and the University of Sunderland, Sunderland College, Sunderland AFC, Northumbria Police, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, Veterans in Crisis, Gentoo, NE Reserve Force and Cadet Association, North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board ICB, 8 Rifles, Together for Children, and South Tyneside and Sunderland- NHS Foundation Trust, set up to jointly address the needs of veterans, reservists and their families in Sunderland.

    The partnership was recognised for providing wide ranging support for those serving in the military and the 11,000 veterans living in Sunderland. The AFP’s work has included making Sunderland one of the very few cities where no veterans are street homeless.

    Sunderland City Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Harry Trueman, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be named the winner of the Working Together award. All organisations in the partnership work hard to support our local armed forces services and veterans, and it is fantastic to see this work recognised in this way.

    “Sunderland as a city has a strong connection to the Armed Forces and the AFP helps to facilitate smooth transitions both into and out of military service so our servicemen and veterans don’t have to fend for themselves.”

    Ger Fowler, Founder and CEO of Veterans in Crisis, said: “Sunderland Armed Forces Partnership is one of the reasons Veterans in Crisis has been so successful, it’s all the main sectors in Sunderland working in harmony with the sole focus of making Sunderland the best place in the country to be a Veteran, we are proud to be a part of it. Winning this National award is a huge honour.”

    Now in their 14th year, the Soldiering On Awards celebrate excellence within the Armed Forces community across twelve categories, aiming to highlight ordinary individuals accomplishing extraordinary feats.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City of York Council named most productive council in country

    Source: City of York

    Published Friday, 18 October 2024

    City of York Council has topped a new list of the most productive English councils, meaning that we achieve the highest value for residents per pound of council spending.

    Independent consultancy, IMPOWER, analysed 149 councils across eight core areas using their index. 

    These are the areas where councils spend the most money and include:

    • housing 
    • homelessness 
    • waste and recycling 
    • high needs 
    • children’s social care 
    • working age adults 
    • older adults 
    • health 

    They used nationally available metrics to determine the top 10 and found York is achieving the best outcomes for people, for a relatively low spend.
     
    Leader of City of York Council, Cllr Claire Douglas said:

    “This is fantastic news and testament to the hard work of staff right across the council.

    “York is amongst the lowest funded councils in the country and we’ve long been committed to making the best of what we have in delivering good quality services and value for money for the citizens of York. 

    “Despite a very challenging situation, we pull together and strive for excellence in all we do. We thank our fantastic workforce that continues to make this possible”.
     
    Ian Floyd, Chief Operating Officer of City of York Council, welcomed the news, saying: 

    “I’m extremely proud that, despite the financial challenges, we, and councils across the country are facing, York’s commitment to delivering value for money for our residents has been recognised.

    “Our staff work tirelessly each and every day and the news that we have been named England’s most productive council is testament to their dedication and diligence – I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for everything that they do.

    “While this achievement is a welcome endorsement of our work, we cannot afford to be complacent and we will continue to work together as one council, delivering for the people of York.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cost of living advice available at North West Information and Support Event

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Cost of living advice available at North West Information and Support Event

    18 October 2024

    Foyle and Lisnagelvin Jobs and Benefits Offices, in partnership with Derry and Strabane Labour Market Partnership, are hosting a special information event in the Guildhall next week to allow people to avail of advice and guidance from local organisations and community support services.

    The free event in the Guildhall will take place on Thursday October 24th from 11am to 2pm and no prebooking is required.

    A range of community and voluntary organisations and partners will be in attendance to give information on the help and support available.

    Attendees will be able to access free advice on a range of cost-of-living issues surrounding housing, mortgages and benefits as well as general tips and advice.

    Department for Communities’ Make the Call and Finance Support staff will also be on hand to advise people on any additional supports they may be entitled to regarding pension credits, working tax credits, tax-free childcare or benefit entitlements and financial support.

    Representatives from Council will be in attendance to give advice on some of the services available.

    A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council encouraged people to take advantage of the chance to learn more about the range of support available in the Council area.

    “This event is open to everyone and is an ideal way to find out important information on a range of topics including cost of living support, wellbeing, benefits and employability.

    “Whether it’s advice support from the local Jobs and Benefits Offices or from Make the Call to ensure you’re getting the benefits, services and supports you’re entitled to, the correct entitlements or pension credits you need, or you’re just looking to find out what independent and community support is available, there is something for everyone.”

    Contact Foyle or Lisnagelvin Jobs and Benefits Office for further information and contact details can be found at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/articles/job-fairs-and-events-calendar

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to find man wanted for a dozen offences

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met officers have released an image of a man they urgently need to speak to following a spate of burglaries at mosques around the country.

    Large amounts of cash have allegedly been stolen from eight mosques, including one in Manor Park, Newham, east London, over the last year.

    The man is described as being around 6ft 8 tall, 55-years-old with a shaved, balding head and stubble and goes by the name of Anthony Cheike.

    Mr Cheike was last seen in Mitcham, south London, in May.

    He is wanted for 12 offences including bail offences, failure to appear at court and burglary.

    If you recognise this man or if you have any information which could help, please report it to police online or call 101 quoting 3239/05OCT24.

    Alternatively this can be reported to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fostering team celebrates Kinship Care Week with tea party

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Kinship carers – family members or close friends who step in to provide love, stability, and a nurturing home to children within their own network – are the backbone of many families, offering unwavering support and guidance.

    The event, last week, was filled with heartwarming moments as families shared stories of resilience, love, and the unique bonds they share with the children in their care. Guests took part in a creative scrapbook making activity, where both adults and children had the opportunity to reflect on and capture their most cherished family memories.

    Alison Hinds, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Director of Children’s Services, said: “Kinship carers are the heart of our community. Their selflessness and commitment to providing a safe and loving environment for children is truly inspiring. We are incredibly thankful for all they do.”

    The tea party served as both a celebration and a reminder of the essential role kinship carers play in shaping the future of young people in Wolverhampton. Events like this aim to recognise and support these incredible families, ensuring they feel appreciated and valued for their contributions.

    For more information about kinship care and how to support local families, please contact the Fostering for Wolverhampton Team via fostering@wolverhampton.gov.uk or visit Fostering for Wolverhampton.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Presence organizes study visit on out-of-country voting for Albania’s Central Election Commission

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE Presence organizes study visit on out-of-country voting for Albania’s Central Election Commission

    From 14 to 17 October 2024, a delegation from Albania’s Central Election Commission (CEC), including representatives from the Regulatory Commission and the technical staff, conducted a study visit to Sarajevo, focused on the administration of the out-of-country voting. The visit – organized by the OSCE Presence – comes at a crucial time for Albania, as the CEC is drafting secondary legislation to facilitate the participation of Albanian citizens living abroad in the 2025 parliamentary elections.
    The Albanian delegation met with representatives of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Central Election Commission, officials overseeing the election counting process, and representatives of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina. During the meetings, participants discussed the rules and procedures for out-of-country voting, focusing on voter registration for citizens living abroad, the preparation of voter lists, voting procedures, tabulation of results, and the use of new technology. The Albanian officials were introduced to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s nearly three decades of experience in implementing out-of-country voting, including challenges faced and the solutions developed over the years. Special emphasis was placed on the recent local elections, where measures were taken to enhance the integrity and inclusiveness of voting from abroad.
    The OSCE Presence in Albania organized the visit as part of its “Support to electoral reform and processes in Albania” project funded by Sweden, Switzerland, the U.S. Mission to the OSCE and Poland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden and Hungary sign Letter of Intent

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden and Hungary sign Letter of Intent – Government.se

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    Minister for Defence Pål Jonson and Hungarian Minister of Defence Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky sign Letter of Intent.

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    Hungarian Minister of Defence Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky and Minister for Defence Pål Jonson. Photo: Niklas Forsström/Government Offices

    On 16 October, Mr Jonson and Mr Szalay-Bobrovniczky signed a Letter of Intent (LOI). This LOI is a bilateral declaration on expanded defence cooperation between Sweden and Hungary.

    This follows from the agreement concluded between Sweden and Hungary on 23 February 2024 in Budapest to sign an LOI on expanded cooperation on defence and JAS Gripen fighter aircraft.

    The LOI specifies that a working group will be appointed with the aim of discussing and identifying opportunities to cooperate on defence materiel. The working group will consist of representatives from the Defence Materiel Administration, Saab AB and the Hungarian Ministry of Defence.

    “I look forward to seeing the working group’s concrete results in the future,” says Mr Jonson. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Who is Tundu Lissu? Tanzania’s opposition leader is fighting for change in the face of fresh attacks on political freedoms

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nicodemus Minde, Researcher, United States International University

    Tundu Lissu has become the face of opposition in Tanzania following his defiant and unrelenting criticism of the government. Since he came into the national limelight in 1995 when running for a parliamentary seat, Lissu has been a champion of democracy and human rights. He has taken on the ruling elite, exposing corruption and demanding accountability. This almost cost him his life in 2017.

    In September 2024, new evidence presented at a London tribunal revealed that the telecommunications company Tigo had shared Lissu’s mobile phone data – including his location – with the Tanzanian government. The implication was that the company was assisting the government in its harassment of the politician. Tigo’s owners have distanced themselves from these reports.

    The revelations coincided with a resurgence in government crackdowns on opposition figures.

    In the most recent developments, leaders of the country’s main opposition party Chadema (Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo) – including Lissu, who is the party’s vice-chairperson, and chairman Freeman Mbowe – were arrested in September 2024. This followed their attempt to organise mass protests, which were foiled by the police. The protests had been organised to demand government accountability after the killing of a senior Chadema official and the disappearance of other party members believed to have been abducted by state operatives.

    I have studied Tanzania’s political party dynamics for a decade and interviewed Lissu as part of my PhD research on the country’s democracy. Lissu’s persistence in tackling democratic backsliding in Tanzania has made him a formidable force, challenging the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party.

    Lissu spent about three years in exile in Belgium after the 2017 shooting. He staged a comeback as a presidential candidate in the 2020 elections. He lost to John Magufuli in a poll marred by violence and allegations of rigging.

    There have been changes in the country since Magufuli’s death in March 2021 and a string of political reforms under President Samia Suluhu. This has created the space for Lissu and his party Chadema to establish an opposition that now threatens the ruling party’s six-decade hold on power. Presidential elections are due to be held in 2025.

    So who is Lissu? What’s his history and how did he became involved in politics?

    Early years

    Lissu’s political activism began during his university years in the early 1990s. This marked the start of a career that would later shape Tanzania’s political landscape. Lissu studied law at the University of Dar es Salaam before going to the UK for a master’s degree in law.

    His first foray into national politics came in 1995, when he vied for a parliamentary seat. He was 27. The election was Tanzania’s first under a multiparty system. It introduced Lissu to the arena of opposition politics following his defeat.

    A year later, Lissu was one of the lead investigative lawyers for a public interest environmental law organisation investigating abuses and irregularities at a World Bank-backed gold mine in northern Tanzania. His early work focused on environmental and human rights.

    Lissu and his colleague Rugemeleza Nshala were investigating the killing of 62 small-scale miners and the evictions of thousands at the mine in 1996. They were charged with sedition over these investigations. The government eventually stopped following up on the case.

    Lissu thereafter worked on community land rights at the World Resources Institute, a global organisation focusing on policy research.

    Parliamentary years

    In 2010, Lissu won the parliamentary seat for Singida East under the opposition party Chadema. As a first-term member of parliament, he gained prominence by exposing significant state corruption scandals, particularly in the energy sector.

    Lissu and other Chadema opposition figures became a formidable force, openly naming corrupt government officials and exposing grand theft.

    They also began making calls for constitutional reform. These were aimed at addressing excessive presidential powers and the power imbalances of the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar. This push culminated in then president Jakaya Kikwete initiating a constitutional review process in 2010.

    Lissu’s legal acumen played out in the constituent assembly, the body convened to deliberate on constitutional reforms. However, the assembly, dominated by members of the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi, rejected many of the key provisions of the draft constitution. It had been widely regarded as the “people’s draft” because it included citizen participation. Its key provisions included reduced presidential powers and the establishment of independent state institutions.

    The process was to culminate in a referendum in 2014. This prematurely aborted and Tanzania went into the 2015 election without a new constitution.

    In these elections, Lissu successfully defended his parliamentary seat. As a second-term legislator, he focused on strengthening Chadema’s presence. This included door-to-door conversations with the public and grassroots mobilisation to build the party.

    The party’s momentum, however, was halted by a repressive regime under Magufuli, who became president in 2015. He cracked down on critics and instituted a partial ban on political rallies.

    Lissu became very critical of Magufuli’s economic policies. In a public address in 2017, Magufuli admitted to the government’s tapping of Lissu’s phone and described those who opposed his own economic reforms as traitors. Soon after this, Lissu was shot 16 times after leaving parliament buildings in the capital, Dodoma.

    Exile

    Lissu officially went into exile in Belgium after the shooting. In 2020, he published Remaining in the Shadows: Parliament and Accountability in East Africa, a critical examination of the presidentialist systems in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, which he argued had undermined democratic consolidation in the region.

    Through this publication, Lissu continued his activism, challenging political structures.

    His brief return to Tanzania to contest the presidency in 2020 was marked by repeated arrests and intimidation during the electoral campaign. After his loss to Magufuli, Lissu went back to Belgium.

    He announced his return home in 2023.

    Tanzania today

    It’s important to understand why Lissu and Chadema are viewed as a current threat in Tanzania.

    The country is entering an election period. Local government elections are scheduled for November 2024 ahead of general elections in 2025.

    The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, has in the recent past relied on state violence to secure electoral victories. The last general election in 2020 was marred by violence, as well as intimidation of the opposition and censorship.

    It looks likely that Chadema will once again nominate Lissu to contest the presidency in the 2025 general election against president Samia. Lissu’s fearlessness and defiance make him the best candidate to take on the ruling party. Samia has already described Lissu as a troublesome character.

    With the ongoing opposition clampdown, it looks clear that the ruling party is once again willing to do whatever it will take to hold on to power. Even if Tanzania’s democracy suffers.

    Nicodemus Minde is affiliated with the Institute for Security Studies.

    – ref. Who is Tundu Lissu? Tanzania’s opposition leader is fighting for change in the face of fresh attacks on political freedoms – https://theconversation.com/who-is-tundu-lissu-tanzanias-opposition-leader-is-fighting-for-change-in-the-face-of-fresh-attacks-on-political-freedoms-240821

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Readout of President  Biden’s Meeting with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier of  Germany

    Source: The White House

    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. met today with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier of Germany at Bellevue Palace to discuss the strong U.S.-German relationship, grounded in our shared democratic values.  The two leaders coordinated on support for Ukraine in its self-defense against Russian aggression; countering antisemitism and other forms of hate at home and abroad; efforts to de-escalate conflict in the Middle East and support the protection of civilians; amongst other global issues. President Biden acknowledged the timing of his visit ahead of the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, and our countries’ shared commitment to freedom and democracy.  The President underscored the close U.S. diplomatic, economic, and military relationship with Germany.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IBCA Newsletter, 17 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s newsletter that was circulated on 17 October 2024

    Documents

    IBCA Newsletter, 17 October 2024

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    Details

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s newsletter that was circulated on 17 October 2024

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor launches new toolkits and workshops in London primary schools to help educate pupils about healthy and respectful relationships

    Source: Mayor of London

    • The new innovative £1million toolkit is now available online for all primary schools in the capital and will help champion healthy and respectful relationships and attitudes. Online courses will train teachers to run classes and workshops in every school
    • The move comes as research shows that young people are increasingly being exposed to misogynist influencers on social media – with one in three young males having a positive view of ‘self-proclaimed misogynist’ Andrew Tate and one in ten children having watched pornography by the time they are nine
    • The Mayor has today written to every primary school in London to highlight the importance of pupils learning about equality and respect
    • Today the Mayor warned there has never been a more important time to counter the pernicious influence of those who preach misogyny online, saying ‘young people must learn about respectful relationships before they start seeing content from individuals like Andrew Tate online.’

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, today launched a new landmark toolkit for every primary school in London to teach pupils about healthy and respectful relationships, as part of his work to tackle violence against women and girls.

    Sadiq has written to every primary school in London explaining the importance of young boys and girls learning about equality and respect.

    The new innovative £1million toolkit1, funded by the Mayor and developed by educational experts Tender2, uses workshops, drama and interactive sessions in the classroom to engage with young Londoners aged between 9-11 and champion healthy and respectful relationships and attitudes.

    Tender is a pioneer in educating primary schools about healthy relationships and this is the first time they have put that knowledge and experience into a toolkit specifically for primary schools. Funding from the Mayor has allowed them to put their knowledge and experience into a toolkit to run classes and workshops empowering young people to confidently recognise, call out and help stamp out inequality and sexism among their own peer groups.

    The move comes as research shows that young people are being increasingly exposed to misogynist influencers on social media – with one in three young males having a positive view of ‘self-proclaimed misogynist’ Andrew Tate. 4 Young people are also being exposed to pornography online from as young as nine years old and this is having a negative role in shaping children’s understanding of girls and relationships. 5

    The toolkit will help educate the next generation of Londoners on what harmful behaviour looks like, and why it is not ok. It will be delivered by primary school teachers and supported by specially trained workshop leaders.

    It builds on work already delivered by the Mayor’s Violence Reduction Unit, which has pioneered a public health approach to tackling violence. It’s £2million funding includes investing in Tender to deliver work with 15,200 children and young people taking part in arts and drama-based healthy relationships sessions. This work has led to ​90 per cent of pupils having a better understanding of healthy relationships​ and 80 per cent now able to spot red flags in a friendship or relationship​.

    The action is the latest part of the Mayor’s approach to tackling the underlying causes of violence against women and girls (VAWG)6. It will build on the success of his multi award-winning #HaveAWord campaign and allyship training in secondary schools which is working to educate and empower young Londoners to take a stand and help prevent violence against women and girls. 

    The launch of the new toolkit, following a successful trial3, is based on the Mayor’s early intervention and prevention approach to tackling VAWG which places a stronger emphasis on partnership working, prevention and education across a wide range of services in London.

    The Mayor is clear that it is never too early to start educating young Londoners about the need to treat one another fairly and kindly. And that education from a young age is key to strengthening the resilience young people have to toxic influences and attitudes towards women and girls in society and those proliferating on social media.

    It is part of the Mayor’s record £233million investment to tackle violence against women and girls in all its forms – as well as its underlying causes. This funding is working to educate young people about harmful attitudes and behaviours, save lives, reduce waiting lists, keep doors open for vital specialist support services for victims and supporting the police and agencies to go after the worst perpetrators of violence.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “It’s never too early to start educating young Londoners about the need to treat one another fairly and kindly. And it’s important for young boys and girls to learn about equality and respect for one another.

    “That’s why I have written to all primary school headteachers in the capital today to outline the support, resources and funding I’m investing from City Hall so this important training can be delivered to thousands of young Londoners. It will give teachers the expert training they need to empower the next generation of Londoners to stand up to sexism and misogyny in all its forms.

    “There has never been a more important time to counter the pernicious influence of those who preach misogyny online. we must ensure that young people are clear what healthy and respectful relationships are about before they start seeing content from individuals like Andrew Tate online.

    “I will continue to do everything within my power to ensure that ending violence against women and girls is treated with the utmost urgency both by our police, and society as a whole to build a safer London for all.”

    Broadcaster and DJ Ashley James said: “As a mum-of-two, I’m really pleased that the Mayor of London is introducing education in primary schools to help tackle the root causes of violence against women and girls. Nobody is born a misogynist but social media and other influences can embed harmful ideas unless children have already built a strong foundation of equality and respect.”

    Emma, a Headteacher at a North London Primary School, said: “Supporting our children to recognise and develop healthy and respectful relationships is absolutely vital as we aim to set them up for a positive future. Broaching issues like misogyny and sexism with young children can be really challenging and is something that we need to be prepared to deal with. Thanks to the Mayor’s new teacher Toolkit, we now have expertly crafted, tried and tested tools and activities to safely and confidently teach this important subject matter. All our teachers have taken part in the online training sessions with Tender and we are really excited about working with our children to educate them on why it is important to treat each other fairly, kindly and with respect.”

    Taiba Year 6: “These sessions have taught us about what makes us good people. We talk about our equal rights and how we should treat people as well as how people should treat us.”

    Ege Year 6: “I liked learning about the house of friendship because it shows us what is expected of our friends. We also looked at behaviours to look out for if we feel we are not being treated fairly or we are being pressured into something.”

    Abdurahman Year 6: “I really enjoyed the roleplays because you get to see a number of situations that we could get into and how we can have a different response to them.”

    Susie McDonald, CEO of Tender, said: “Primary school is a critical time for children, as they develop core skills in communication, empathy and respect. It’s therefore imperative that they learn about healthy relationships. and are supported to build positive attitudes and behaviours.

    “It’s often difficult to begin exploring topics like healthy relationships and gender inequality with young people of any age. Our creative, evidence-led toolkit and corresponding training sessions guide teachers in this vital work, with practical activities and advice that are expertly designed for this age group.

    “By challenging potentially problematic attitudes at their root, we can prevent a culture of abuse against women and girls. We hope as many teachers, children and young people as possible benefit from these resources, as we work towards ending this abuse once and for all.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Over 6 million illegally exported pills seized in international operation against drug trafficking network

    Source: Eurojust

    The criminal group, which operated throughout Europe, bought pills from other criminal networks in Serbia. The pills, used to treat anxiety, seizures and insomnia, were then hidden in tyres, in cars, which were transported on lorries, and in clothing to be taken to Romania and Estonia. After arriving in Romania or Estonia, the pills were transported on to the Nordic countries. Members of the criminal group in Finland and Norway acted as distributors and sold the pills on the streets. The sale of the pills was highly profitable for the criminal group. The pills seized during the operations done by the national authorities has a market value of approximately EUR 12.5 million.

    To dismantle the intricate network of criminals, the Romanian authorities launched an investigation into the group. Given the transnational nature of the criminal group, with activities in Romania, Estonia, Finland, and Serbia, international cooperation between the authorities started, supported by Eurojust and Europol.

    A joint investigation team (JIT) was set up at Eurojust between Romanian, Estonian, Finnish and Serbian authorities to collect and exchange information and evidence directly, and carry out joint operations.

    To investigate the activity of the criminal group, special investigative techniques such as control delivery and undercover investigator were successfully used by the authorities of all the countries involved. To this end, Eurojust facilitated the coordination and execution in Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Lithuania and Latvia of European Investigation Orders issued by Romania. Following these actions, 39 people were arrested, and more than 4 million prescription pills were seized.

    After these measures, the JIT continued their investigations to halt the activities of the criminal group and bring them to justice.

    A large-scale international operation on 17 October coordinated from Eurojust’s headquarters in The Hague, led to the arrest of 14 people in Romania, 11 people in Serbia and 1 person in Finland. 41 houses searches were carried out simultaneously in Romania, 19 in Serbia and one in Finland.

    Items seized during the operation include large quantities of pills, cash, mobile phones, firearms and luxury cars. 2 houses have been also seized in Romania. Europol facilitated the overall operation by liaising with the operating authorities, processing the available data and deploying two specialists with mobile offices to support the action day.

    The following authorities were involved in the actions:

    • Romania:
      • Prosecution Office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice
      • Directorate for Investigation of Organized Crime and Terrorism
      • Oradea Territorial Office
      • General Inspectorate of the Romanian Police
      • Directorate for Combating Organized Crime
      • Department for Special Operations
      • Central Intelligence Analysis Unit of the Romanian Police;
      • General Inspectorate for Border Police – Bors, Nadlac and Petea Offices
    • Estonia:
      • Northern District Prosecutor’s Office
      • Police and Border Guard Board, Northern Prefecture, Crime Bureau, Drug and Organised Crime Unit
    • Finland:
      • Prosecution District of Southern Finland
      • Helsinki Police Department and National Prosecution Authority
    • Serbia:
      • Public Prosecutor’s Office for Organized Crime
      • Criminal Investigations Directorate
      • Service for Combatting Organized Crime
      • Department for Combating Organized Drug Smuggling

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Who is Tundu Lissu? Tanzania’s opposition leader is fighting for change in the face of fresh attacks on political freedoms

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nicodemus Minde, Researcher, United States International University

    Tundu Lissu has become the face of opposition in Tanzania following his defiant and unrelenting criticism of the government. Since he came into the national limelight in 1995 when running for a parliamentary seat, Lissu has been a champion of democracy and human rights. He has taken on the ruling elite, exposing corruption and demanding accountability. This almost cost him his life in 2017.

    In September 2024, new evidence presented at a London tribunal revealed that the telecommunications company Tigo had shared Lissu’s mobile phone data – including his location – with the Tanzanian government. The implication was that the company was assisting the government in its harassment of the politician. Tigo’s owners have distanced themselves from these reports.

    The revelations coincided with a resurgence in government crackdowns on opposition figures.

    In the most recent developments, leaders of the country’s main opposition party Chadema (Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo) – including Lissu, who is the party’s vice-chairperson, and chairman Freeman Mbowe – were arrested in September 2024. This followed their attempt to organise mass protests, which were foiled by the police. The protests had been organised to demand government accountability after the killing of a senior Chadema official and the disappearance of other party members believed to have been abducted by state operatives.

    I have studied Tanzania’s political party dynamics for a decade and interviewed Lissu as part of my PhD research on the country’s democracy. Lissu’s persistence in tackling democratic backsliding in Tanzania has made him a formidable force, challenging the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party.

    Lissu spent about three years in exile in Belgium after the 2017 shooting. He staged a comeback as a presidential candidate in the 2020 elections. He lost to John Magufuli in a poll marred by violence and allegations of rigging.

    There have been changes in the country since Magufuli’s death in March 2021 and a string of political reforms under President Samia Suluhu. This has created the space for Lissu and his party Chadema to establish an opposition that now threatens the ruling party’s six-decade hold on power. Presidential elections are due to be held in 2025.

    So who is Lissu? What’s his history and how did he became involved in politics?

    Early years

    Lissu’s political activism began during his university years in the early 1990s. This marked the start of a career that would later shape Tanzania’s political landscape. Lissu studied law at the University of Dar es Salaam before going to the UK for a master’s degree in law.

    His first foray into national politics came in 1995, when he vied for a parliamentary seat. He was 27. The election was Tanzania’s first under a multiparty system. It introduced Lissu to the arena of opposition politics following his defeat.

    A year later, Lissu was one of the lead investigative lawyers for a public interest environmental law organisation investigating abuses and irregularities at a World Bank-backed gold mine in northern Tanzania. His early work focused on environmental and human rights.

    Lissu and his colleague Rugemeleza Nshala were investigating the killing of 62 small-scale miners and the evictions of thousands at the mine in 1996. They were charged with sedition over these investigations. The government eventually stopped following up on the case.

    Lissu thereafter worked on community land rights at the World Resources Institute, a global organisation focusing on policy research.

    Parliamentary years

    In 2010, Lissu won the parliamentary seat for Singida East under the opposition party Chadema. As a first-term member of parliament, he gained prominence by exposing significant state corruption scandals, particularly in the energy sector.

    Lissu and other Chadema opposition figures became a formidable force, openly naming corrupt government officials and exposing grand theft.

    They also began making calls for constitutional reform. These were aimed at addressing excessive presidential powers and the power imbalances of the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar. This push culminated in then president Jakaya Kikwete initiating a constitutional review process in 2010.

    Lissu’s legal acumen played out in the constituent assembly, the body convened to deliberate on constitutional reforms. However, the assembly, dominated by members of the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi, rejected many of the key provisions of the draft constitution. It had been widely regarded as the “people’s draft” because it included citizen participation. Its key provisions included reduced presidential powers and the establishment of independent state institutions.

    The process was to culminate in a referendum in 2014. This prematurely aborted and Tanzania went into the 2015 election without a new constitution.

    In these elections, Lissu successfully defended his parliamentary seat. As a second-term legislator, he focused on strengthening Chadema’s presence. This included door-to-door conversations with the public and grassroots mobilisation to build the party.

    The party’s momentum, however, was halted by a repressive regime under Magufuli, who became president in 2015. He cracked down on critics and instituted a partial ban on political rallies.

    Lissu became very critical of Magufuli’s economic policies. In a public address in 2017, Magufuli admitted to the government’s tapping of Lissu’s phone and described those who opposed his own economic reforms as traitors. Soon after this, Lissu was shot 16 times after leaving parliament buildings in the capital, Dodoma.

    Exile

    Lissu officially went into exile in Belgium after the shooting. In 2020, he published Remaining in the Shadows: Parliament and Accountability in East Africa, a critical examination of the presidentialist systems in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, which he argued had undermined democratic consolidation in the region.

    Through this publication, Lissu continued his activism, challenging political structures.

    His brief return to Tanzania to contest the presidency in 2020 was marked by repeated arrests and intimidation during the electoral campaign. After his loss to Magufuli, Lissu went back to Belgium.

    He announced his return home in 2023.

    Tanzania today

    It’s important to understand why Lissu and Chadema are viewed as a current threat in Tanzania.

    The country is entering an election period. Local government elections are scheduled for November 2024 ahead of general elections in 2025.

    The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, has in the recent past relied on state violence to secure electoral victories. The last general election in 2020 was marred by violence, as well as intimidation of the opposition and censorship.

    It looks likely that Chadema will once again nominate Lissu to contest the presidency in the 2025 general election against president Samia. Lissu’s fearlessness and defiance make him the best candidate to take on the ruling party. Samia has already described Lissu as a troublesome character.

    With the ongoing opposition clampdown, it looks clear that the ruling party is once again willing to do whatever it will take to hold on to power. Even if Tanzania’s democracy suffers.

    – Who is Tundu Lissu? Tanzania’s opposition leader is fighting for change in the face of fresh attacks on political freedoms
    – https://theconversation.com/who-is-tundu-lissu-tanzanias-opposition-leader-is-fighting-for-change-in-the-face-of-fresh-attacks-on-political-freedoms-240821

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester to be guest city at iconic Barcelona festival next year

    Source: City of Manchester

    The iconic La Mercè Festival

    Manchester is to team up with Barcelona next September at the Catalan city’s iconic La Mercè festival – which each year attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors into the city for a 4-day cultural festival that sets the very highest of bars for festivals everywhere, showcasing the very best of traditional Catalan culture, outdoor arts and music.

    Manchester has been chosen by its Catalan counterparts to be the first-ever English guest city at next year’s event in a move that will see partners from the two cities working closely over the next 12 months to put together a spectacular programme of Mancunian-grown talent in outdoor arts and music for audiences in Barcelona. 

    The invitation to be guest city at the festival is regarded as a big coup for Manchester and one that it’s hoped will lead to a sustained relationship between the two cities that goes beyond next year. 

    It follows a recent visit to Barcelona by a deputation from Manchester that included Leader of Manchester City Council Bev Craig and Deputy Leader of the Council Garry Bridges, for discussions with their Catalan counterparts including Mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni. 

    It’s further hoped that the year-long cultural partnership will help forge an even closer relationship between the two cities that extends beyond culture into other areas of shared policy interest.  

    Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We’re honoured to have been invited by Barcelona to be the 2025 guest city at their historic La Mercè Festival. 

    “Our two cities share very similar visions and through celebrations like the incredible La Mercè festival and our own Manchester Day and packed programme of year-round city-wide cultural activity, it’s clear we both also value the importance of culture and the part it plays in helping build communities, pride and prosperity in our cities.

     “Our city-to-city friendship with Barcelona already spans several decades through various collaborations in culture and sport, as well as in areas like housing, higher education, digital technologies, and sustainability.  We’re very much looking forward to now further strengthening our relationship with the city, both through the next year in the run-up to La Mercè 2025, and beyond.”

    La Mercè attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year

     A Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the visit between the cities – with the Mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, noting that the two cities share a very similar industrial past with histories that are linked to workers’ movements, as well as a present and future with great cultural wealth linked to the creative industries.

    The Memorandum – which both Manchester and Barcelona hope will continue after next year – puts the cultural collaboration between the two cities into effect and provides a working framework for artists, organisations and other partners involved, focusing initially on music productions and street arts events for next year’s La Mercè festival.

    Jaume Collboni, Mayor of Barcelona, said: “We’re deeply honoured to invite Manchester to be the guest city for their historic La Mercè in 2025.

    “It will be very interesting for the people of Barcelona to discover Manchester’s cultural expression first hand, its music, for which it is known the world over, but also its visual and street arts, sports and theatre.”

    The invitation for Manchester to be guest city at next year’s La Mercè festival follows a long relationship over many years between cultural organisations in Barcelona and Manchester-based arts organisations XTRAX and Without Walls, and will see XTRAX acting as Creative Director across next year’s guest city programme. 

    Maggie Clarke, Director at Xtrax said:  “I’m proud to have helped secure Manchester as Guest City for La Mercè festival 2025, a relationship XTRAX has nurtured over many years. Our winning bid focuses on outdoor arts, and we’re supporting the Artistic Director of La Mercè street arts festival to select a programme of diverse and ambitious outdoor arts from Manchester to feature in the festival in Barcelona in 2025. 

    “XTRAX believes in the importance of outdoor festivals and is committed to international collaboration. Since 2001 we’ve supported hundreds of artists to showcase their work at international festivals in the UK and around the world. In light of the challenges to European mobility presented by Brexit, I am thrilled that this collaboration with one of Europe’s major outdoor festivals allows us to showcase the variety and quality of work from the UK, and Manchester in particular. We hope this will pave the way for more European collaborations in the years to come.” 

    Manchester’s contribution to next year’s La Mercè will also be closely supported by Without Walls as Co-Curator and Strategic Partner. 

    Ralph Kennedy, Chief Executive at Without Walls said: “As an organisation rooted in Manchester, we’re immensely proud to be part of the La Mercè Festival in 2025 and to help bring outstanding outdoor work to its audiences next year. 

    “Together with XTRAX we look forward to co-curating an outdoor arts programme that celebrates innovation, excellence and international cultural exchange to support and showcase the diversity of artists that reflect the city we live in today.”  

    The Manchester music programme for next year’s festival will be curated by Manchester-based music organisation Brighter Sounds.

    Kate Lowes, Director, Brighter Sound, said: “Manchester is renowned globally for its rich musical heritage and pioneering new artists, and we are delighted to be able to showcase this at Barcelona’s vibrant La Mercè festival in 2025. As a member of the Music Cities network, Manchester is proudly international in its musical outlook and there are exciting opportunities ahead for collaboration with the incredible music scene in Catalonia. We look forward to strengthening the bond between our two cities through our shared love of music at La Mercè, and for years to come.”

    Live music at this year’s La Mercè

    The collaboration between Manchester and Barcelona as two cities with very similar backgrounds and identities is also being championed by Marketing Manchester, with benefits expected for both cities from the partnership.   

    Victoria Braddock, Managing Director at Marketing Manchester, said: “Barcelona’s annual La Mercè Festival is a fantastic showcase of civic pride and inimitable Catalonian culture, and we’re honoured that Manchester has been invited to join the event in 2025 as guest city. There are many synergies between Manchester and Barcelona: both vibrant cultural hubs, rich in history, with strong identities, and a shared passion for so much, especially music and sport. This is a perfect city-to-city partnership, and we look forward to bringing our cities even closer together over the coming years.” 

    The cultural partnership between the two cities is also being supported by Arts Council England.

     Jen Cleary, Director North and Combined Arts, Arts Council England, said: “We’re delighted to support this unique creative collaboration between Manchester and Barcelona – celebrating and showcasing some of the best outdoor artists and companies in both cities. The partnership opens up new opportunities for international touring and artistic exchange, as well as providing a platform to strengthen civic ties through arts and culture. La Mercè is a major event in the European outdoor arts calendar and we can’t wait to see Manchester take pride of place as the Festival’s Guest City.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stylish new opening of The Cream Store in Sheffield city centre Independent premium fashion retailer The Cream Store has opened a 3,000 sq ft flagship shop on the ground floor of Burgess House today in Sheffield’s Heart of the City, the Council’s prize-winning redevelopment scheme. 18 October 2024

    Source: City of Sheffield

    Independent premium fashion retailer The Cream Store has today opened a 3,000 sq ft flagship shop on the ground floor of Burgess House in Sheffield’s Heart of the City, the Council’s prize-winning redevelopment scheme.

    On 7 November, a limited-edition collaboration with Carhartt WIP will launch, along with Thornbridge who will host a limited-edition beer for the event, as well as other activities taking place throughout the day.

    Sheffield will become The Cream Store’s second dedicated shop in the UK, following the long-term success of the company’s Nuneaton store, which opened in 2005. The new opening provides the local community with a ‘go to’ place to shop for quality in a relaxed, ambient atmosphere where customers can view the latest fashion collections.

    The store, which also boasts a raised mezzanine, will stock contemporary clothing and lifestyle accessories for both men and women. Premium brands, which are regularly refreshed and rotated, include the popular Carhartt WIP, Fred Perry, Edwin, Nudie Jeans Co, Gramicci, plus many more.

    Like Nuneaton, the store will also house its acclaimed ‘Sneaker Treat’ service, offering customers a range of sustainable cleaning and restoration solutions to bring their favourite trainers back to life.

    Councillor Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome The Cream Store to Heart of the City, which is another significant addition to the growing fashion offer in Sheffield. As one of the largest urban regeneration schemes in Britain, this has been a huge year for Heart of the City, which has seen the Radisson Blu, Cambridge Street Collective food hall and Leah’s Yard as new additions, BOX sports bar and kitchen set to open its doors next month and being named Outstanding Development of the Year.”

    Manish Patel, Director of The Cream Store, said: “We’re incredibly excited to open our doors to the Sheffield public and showcase what we’re all about. The store looks stunning. We have fully committed to a bespoke design, where the team has gone above and beyond to create something truly unique to us that reflects our brand. It will offer a relaxed, ambient atmosphere for our clients to chat, linger, and browse our latest collections.

    “Client service is at the heart of everything we do. We love connecting with our clients, sharing our advice, and discussing our passion for our products. This approach has helped us maintain a loyal client base over the last two decades, and we’re excited to grow something even bigger in Sheffield.”

    The Cream Store also boasts a dedicated online shop, with a ‘click and collect’ service. Please visit https://thecreamstore.com for more details.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TUV seek to raise status of PIRA in Stormont

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “Today’s statement by the PSNI  broadcast on the Nolan Show that the security service assessment of the role and status of the PIRA and its Army Council hasn’t changed does not come as a surprise to TUV. However, it is worth remembering that the Ministerial Pledge of Office which all members of the Executive are required to take says they “commitment to non-violence and exclusively peaceful and democratic means…, to challenge paramilitary attempts to control communities [and] to support those who are determined to make the transition away from paramilitarism”.

    “It is incompatible with democracy that a party controlled by the PIRA Army Council should be leading the government of Northern Ireland. Those who partner them should be ashamed. I think particularly of the DUP who, in 2007, signed up to Stormont on the basis of the pledge in their manifesto:

    “The DUP holds to its long standing position that there can only be an agreement involving Sinn Fein when there has been delivery by the republican movement, tested and proved over a credible period, in terms of support for the PSNI, the Courts and the rule of law, a complete end to paramilitary and criminal activity and the removal of terrorist structures.”

    “For most of the past 17 years the DUP have, as they do today, partnered Sinn Fein while the IRA Army Council continues to have a key role in the organisation.

    “While others shrug their shoulders and claim there is nothing they can do about it, TUV is determined to make Stormont face up to these issues and hold those who, for the sake of office, choose to ignore the fact that their partners in government continue to be controlled by an illegal terrorist organisation responsible for the best part of 2,000 murders.

    “To that end, I have tabled both an urgent oral question to the Justice Minister and a Matter of the Day for Monday. It is over to the speaker if time will be set aside for these matters. I trust he will regard them as sufficiently serious.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Investigation under way following fatal collision involving a police car in Eltham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    An investigation is under way following a collision involving a police car in Eltham in which a pregnant woman and her baby have very sadly died.

    At about 18:15hrs on Thursday, 17 October an unmarked police car was in collision with a member of the public’s car on the A20, near the junction with Kidbrooke Park Road, SE9.

    London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade and London’s Air Ambulance all attended.

    A heavily pregnant woman, aged 38, who was in the car, and her unborn baby sadly died as a result of their injuries.

    Next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, in charge of policing in Greenwich, said: “My heart goes out to the woman’s family and friends who have lost their loved ones in these tragic circumstances.

    “An investigation into the circumstances of this collision is under way by the Independent Office for Police Conduct and we will assist with their enquiries in any way we can.

    “A road closure will remain at the scene today and I am grateful for the patience of the local motorists, who will need to use alternative routes.”

    Two officers who were in the unmarked car were also taken to hospital following the collision. They have since been discharged.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni’s statement on 81st anniversary of the rounding up of Jews in Rome during WWII

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    On 16 October 81 years ago, Rome witnessed one of the most brutal crimes ever committed in Italy. At dawn, Nazi troops, with the complicity of the Italian fascist regime, started a merciless manhunt and forcibly removed 1,259 innocent people from their homes, deporting them to death camps. Men, women, elderly people and children. No one was spared, and only 16 returned.

    As Primo Levi said, “if understanding is impossible, knowing is imperative”. Still today, those words indicate the path to keeping the memory of what happened alive and to renewing our commitment against anti-Semitic hatred, which has been revitalised following Hamas’s brutal attack against the Israeli people on 7 October 2023.

    On this anniversary, the Government expresses its closeness to the Jewish Community of Rome and to the relatives and descendants of the deported.

    [Courtesy translation]

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Italy: Europe to gain advanced industrial edge as EIB finances BeDimensional with €20 million for new graphene and other 2D materials plants

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • EIB supports Italian materials manufacturer BeDimensional to scale up production of cutting-edge graphene.
    • BeDimensional to expand production more than tenfold following inauguration today of Genoa plant.
    • EIB financing backed by InvestEU, the investment programme of the European Union.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is offering Italian materials manufacturer BeDimensional SpA financial support to expand production of cutting-edge graphene that promises to help Europe bolster its industrial base and global competitiveness. The EIB is providing €20 million in venture debt financing to BeDimensional to help it become a leading producer of breakthrough two-dimensional crystals known as Few-Layer Graphene (FLG) and Few-Layer Hexagonal Boron Nitride (FLhBN or FLB).  

    EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and BeDimensional Chief Executive Officer Vittorio Pellegrini announced the financing accord at the inauguration today of the company plant in Genoa that is the world’s first producer of FLG and FLB. BeDimensional plans to build a second plant in Italy to scale-up production of FLG and FLB by 2027.

    BeDimensional’s new graphene technologies have shown unprecedented performance in batteries for electric vehicles and a new generation of metal-free engine oils. As a result, the technologies mark a milestone in Europe’s green transition and will herald job creation in Italy’s advanced-manufacturing sector.

    “This project is a perfect example of how the EIB can help European innovators scale up new technologies that are critical for the EU’s industrial base and the green transition,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti. “We are contributing to Europe’s technological leadership, reducing our dependence on external suppliers and creating high-skilled jobs.”

    With EIB support, which is backed by the InvestEU programme, BeDimensional plans to increase its capacity to produce two-dimensional crystals more than tenfold to over 30 tonnes a year by 2028. Today’s plant inauguration was attended by academics, researchers, members of Italy’s Parliament officials from the Liguria Region and the Municipality of Genoa, executives from BeDimensional’s partner companies and financial-sector representatives.

    “We are at the beginning of novel greentech market opportunities,” said BeDimensional CEO Vittorio Pellegrini. “We are excited and grateful that the EIB has decided to join our investors to support our industrial expansion. We are committed to becoming a champion of this emerging market of two-dimensional crystals, securing Europe a leadership position in the production and supply of these advanced materials.”  

    BeDimensional, a spin-off from the Graphene Labs of the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, has established itself as a leader in the development of two-dimensional crystals. The company’s mission is to revolutionise material manufacturing by producing graphene, hexagonal boron nitride and other two-dimensional crystals at industrial scale and competitive costs.

    Graphene is widely recognised for its transformative potential in a range of industries including energy storage and conversion, smart textiles, paints, coatings and composite materials. Its most promising application is in battery technology, where it has been already shown to play a crucial role in stabilising silicon-dominant anodes.

    By enhancing the lifecycle and maximising the capacity of new generation anodes, graphene-based batteries deliver substantial advantages over traditional technologies, such as increased specific capacity and faster charging speeds. These advancements are expected to boost the adoption of EVs, significantly contributing to the decarbonisation of transport and supporting the EU’s environmental goals.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It finances sound investments that contribute to EU policy. EIB projects boost competitiveness, foster innovation, promote sustainable development and improve social and territorial cohesion while supporting a fair and rapid transition towards climate neutrality. Over the past five years, the EIB Group has provided more than €58 billion in financing for projects in Italy.

    The EIB provides a long-term Venture Debt product tailored to meet the specific funding needs of rapidly growing innovative companies. This financing structure features bullet repayments and compensation tied to the equity risk of the investees, complementing existing venture capital investments. Since 2015, the EIB has invested €6 billion in Venture Debt, backing over 200 companies and realising over 50 exits. For more information on Venture Debt, click here: Venture debt (eib.org)

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps to mobilise private investment for the European Union’s strategic priorities such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings all EU financial instruments previously available for supporting investments within the European Union together under one roof, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme has three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is allocated through implementing partners that will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    BeDimensional is a leading producer of Few-Layer Graphene (FLG) and Few-Layer Hexagonal Boron Nitride (FLhBN or FLB). Its mission is to scale up production of these two-dimensional crystals for industrial use at competitive costs, revolutionizing manufacturing with more efficient and sustainable materials. As a spin-off from the Italian Institute of Technology’s Graphene Labs, BeDimensional leverages deep scientific expertise to drive rapid industrialization. Its patented process produces FLG and FLhBN with atomic-level thickness, the highest quality on the market, which can easily be integrated into any material to enhance performance and durability. BeDimensional’s technologies are applied across industries, in energy storage and conversion products, smart textiles, paints, coatings, and composite materials. Its growth potential has attracted major investors, including Eni Next and venture capital funds like CDP Venture, Eureka! Venture, and Nova Capital. The EIB investment follows BeDimensional’s collaboration, since its founding, with the EU’s Graphene Flagship, the community’s largest investment in research and development dedicated to bringing 2D materials to market.

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    Italy: Europe to gain advanced industrial edge as EIB finances BeDimensional with €20 million for new graphene and other 2D materials plants
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism 2024: invitation to award ceremony

    Source: European Parliament

    The award ceremony will take place at 18.00, on Wednesday 23 October 2024, at the European Parliament in Strasbourg (Daphne Caruana Galizia Press Room).

    Accredited journalists are cordially invited to join the award ceremony, which will be opened by the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. The finalists are also invited to join the ceremony, with one of them having been chosen by the Jury members as the winner of the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism 2024.

    Discover here the 13 finalists’ works.

    The winner will be officially announced by a representative of last year’s laureates, a Greek, German and British consortium, who won for an investigation on the Adriana shipwreck, which left over 600 migrants dead off Pylos in Greece.

    Programme

    18.00 Welcome by Vice-President Pina Picierno followed by opening speech by President Roberta Metsola

    18.15 Speech by the President of the Berlin Press Club and representative of the jury, Juliane Hielscher

    18.30 Announcement of 2024 winner by 2023 laureates, followed by speech by the 2024 winner

    18.45 Closing of ceremony by Vice-President Pina Picierno

    18.50 Photo opportunity

    19.00 Reception at the private salon C0.1 (opposite the press bar)

    You can follow the event via webstreaming or by EbS.


    Press seminar     on “Safeguarding Media Freedom: the role of the European Union”

    Just before the award ceremony, a press seminar is being organised on “Safeguarding Media Freedom: the role of the European Union”. The seminar begins at 15:00 in room Weiss S2.2, with an introduction by EP Vice-President Pina Picierno. A panel of journalists will then discuss the continued threats to media and press freedom, through their personal experience. The seminar will be closed by the speeches of Matthew Caruana Galizia, son of Daphne Caruana Galizia, and Vice-President Picierno.

    Journalists who would like to join the seminar online, please write a mail to European Parliament Media Seminars media-seminars@europarl.europa.eu to get the link.

    Background

    The Prize, with the support of the European Parliament, is a tribute to the Maltese investigative journalist and blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was assassinated in October 2017. It rewards, on a yearly basis, outstanding journalism that promotes or defends the core principles and values of the European Union, such as human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights.

    The Prize is open to professional journalists and teams of professional journalists of any nationality to submit in-depth stories that have been published or broadcast by a media outlet based in one of the 27 European Union member states. From 3 May to 31 July 2024, more than 300 applications were submitted by journalists from the 27 EU countries for this fourth edition of the Prize.

    The Prize itself, and the €20,000 prize money, demonstrate the European Parliament’s strong support for investigative journalism and the protection of journalists around the world.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The rule of law in Cyprus and the case of Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides – P-001794/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the EU Treaties, the Commission has no general powers to intervene in individual judicial cases, nor is the Commission in a position to examine how individual cases are addressed by the judicial authorities of a Member State. The adjudication in specific cases comes under the responsibility of judicial authorities of each Member State.

    The Commission monitors significant developments concerning the rule of law in all Member States, including Cyprus, in the context of the annual Rule of Law Report[1], which includes country specific recommendations to all Member States.

    The 2024 Country Chapter on Cyprus, published in July 2024, reported that limited access to relevant information affects the ability of the Audit Office to effectively perform audits on the finance of public institutions.

    The Commission follows closely developments in this area, also in view of the important oversight role of the Audit Office in checking the expenditure of public institutions and detecting suspicions of corruption, and will provide an up-to-date assessment in its 2025 Rule of Law Report.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/upholding-rule-law/rule-law/annual-rule-law-cycle_en
    Last updated: 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –