NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Ekaterina Zaharieva – Start-ups, Research and Innovation – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Ekaterina Zaharieva is currently a member of the Bulgarian National Assembly, representing the Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria party (EPP). Having served in several Bulgarian governments, Zaharieva held the dual position of deputy prime minister for judicial reform and minister of foreign affairs from 2017 to 2021. Earlier, she served as minister of justice from 2015 to 2017, as deputy prime minister for economic policy and minister of regional developments and public works in 2013 and 2014, and as deputy minister of regional development and public works from 2009 to 2011. Between 2011 and 2015, she acted as head of cabinet and secretary general to the President of the Republic of Bulgaria. After earning a master’s degree in law from Paisii Hilendarski University in Plovdiv, Zaharieva had followed a career as a lawyer, and then as a civil servant from 2017 to 2021. Zaharieva was born in Pazardzhik, Bulgaria, in 1975. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Glenn Micallef – Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    From 2020 to June 2024, Glenn Micallef served as the head of the Secretariat of the Maltese Prime Minister, Robert Abela, as well as his adviser on EU affairs, and as Malta’s sherpa at the European Council. Additionally, from 2021 to 2024 he held the position of president of St John’s Co Cathedral Foundation in Malta. Prior to these roles, Micallef worked as a research analyst for the Maltese Ministry for EU Affairs, focusing on the Council of the EU’s competitiveness configuration. He then headed the unit for external relations and preparations for the 2017 Maltese Presidency of the Council. Following this, Micallef served as the director-general of Malta’s EU Coordination Department at the Foreign Affairs Ministry from 2017 until 2020. Born in 1989, Micallef graduated from the University of Malta with a degree in commerce and economics. He also holds a master’s degree in European politics, law and economics from the same university. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Jessika Roswall – Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Jessika Roswall is a politician from the Moderate Party in Sweden, affiliated to the European People’s Party (EPP). Prior to her nomination for the post of Commissioner, Roswall was Sweden’s minister for European affairs, from October 2022 to September 2024. Between 2010 and 2022, she served as a member of the Swedish Parliament, holding the position of second vice-president of its EU affairs committee from 2019 to 2022. Roswall was also a member of the ‘transparency councils’ of the Swedish Consumer Agency (2015-2018), the County Administrative Board of Uppsala (2016-2022), and the Authority for Work Environment Expertise (2018-2019). Born in 1972 in the county of Uppsala, Jessika Roswall holds a law degree from Uppsala University. After graduating in 2002, she worked as a lawyer for the law firm Wigert & Placht, from 2002 to 2010.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Andrius Kubilius – Defence and Space – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Andrius Kubilius has been a Member of the European Parliament since 2019, where he sits in the European People’s Party (EPP) group. He has served among other things as a member of the AFET and ITRE committees and of the Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI). He has also served as chair of the delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly and thus also as a member of the Conference of Delegation Chairs, as well as a member of the delegation to the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Association Committee. Prior to his time in the European Parliament, he served two terms as Lithuania’s prime minister (from 1999 to 2000 and from 2008 to 2012). From 2003 to 2015, Kubilius chaired the Homeland Union (Lithuanian Christian Democrats) party. From 1992 to 2019, he served as a member of the Republic of Lithuania’s national parliament, the Seimas. When not in government, he had various periods when he held the position of leader of the opposition or first deputy speaker, and also had a spell as chair of the Committee on European Affairs. Andrius Kubilius was born in Vilnius, Lithuania, in 1956. He received a degree in physics from Vilnius State University and completed postgraduate studies there too. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Costas Kadis – Fisheries and Oceans – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Costas (Costantinos) Kadis is a scientist with a solid academic profile who has held ministerial portfolios in health, education and agriculture in various Cypriot governments. Kadis is professor of biodiversity conservation at Frederick University, where he also heads the Nature Conservation Unit and has been appointed as deputy president of the University Council. Between 2014 and 2023, Kadis served in two successive Cypriot governments without belonging to a political party. He was minister for education and culture (2014-2018), and minister for agriculture, rural development and environment (2018-2023). In the latter position, he was also responsible for fisheries and marine research. Born in Nicosia in 1967, Kadis graduated and obtained a PhD in biology from the University of Athens. After several research-related positions in Greece and Cyprus, he joined Frederick University in Cyprus in 2005, where he was appointed associate professor, founded the Nature Conservation Unit, and was Dean of the School of Education. He held these positions until 2014, apart from the period from July 2007 to February 2008 when he served as minister of health (as a member of the centre-right Democratic Party (DIKO). Kadis also chaired the Greek Cypriot Environment Committee from 2008 to 2014 as part of the government’s (unsuccessful) efforts to reunify Cyprus. This work did lead to important environmental cooperation agreements with the Turkish Cypriot community. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Magnus Brunner – Internal Affairs and Migration – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Magnus Brunner has been Austria’s federal minister for finance since December 2021. Prior to this role, he served as a state secretary in the Federal Ministry of Climate Protection, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology from 2020 to 2021. From 2018 to 2020, Brunner was vice-president of the Federal Council of Austria, after having served as a member of this institution from 2009 to 2020. Additionally, he served on the Municipal Council of the Höchst Municipality from 2000 to 2004. From 2009 to 2020 Brunner was a member of the Federal Council of the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP), affiliated to the European People’s Party (EPP) group in the European Parliament. Brunner’s earlier professional experience includes serving as the political director of the Austrian Economic Association (2002-2005), as well as holding the position of head of corporate development, communication and strategic development at the Austrian energy company Illwerke VKw Group (2006). He was also on the Board of the Austrian energy company OeMAG (2007-2020). Born in 1972, Brunner is a graduate of King’s College London (LLM), the University of Innsbruck and the University of Vienna (where he obtained a PhD in law). This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Dan Jørgensen – Energy and Housing – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Dan Jørgensen has most recently served as Danish Minister for Development Cooperation and Minister for Global Climate Policy. His role has been to oversee Denmark’s international development initiatives and global climate policies, including co-facilitating COP28 climate negotiations and co-chairing a number of working groups and alliances. Jørgensen is a member of the Social Democratic Party in Denmark, which is affiliated to the S&D group in the European Parliament. He has been a member of the Danish parliament since 2015 and previously served as Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, as well as Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, where he co-facilitated COP26 and COP27 negotiations and served as chair of the International Energy Agency’s Global Commission on People-Centred Clean Energy Transitions. Jørgensen was a Member of the European Parliament (2004-2013), where he served as vice-chair of the Committee on Environment, president of the Animal Welfare Intergroup and head of the Danish delegation of Social Democrats (2009-2013). Born in 1975, Jørgensen holds a master’s degree in political science from Aarhus University. His professional career also includes academic positions as adjunct professor and external lecturer. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Christophe Hansen – Agriculture and Food – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Christophe Hansen was re-elected as a Member of the European Parliament in June 2024 where he sits in the EPP group and is currently a member of the Committees for International Trade, Employment and Social Affairs, and Transport and Tourism. In the previous parliamentary term, Hansen sat on the Committee on International Trade and the Subcommittee on Tax Matters. He also served as Quaestor for a year, before stepping down after being elected to the Luxembourg Parliament in October 2023. In 2014, Hansen joined the Luxembourg Permanent Representation to the EU, chaired the Council of the EU’s Working Party on the Environment during the Luxembourg Presidency (July-December 2015), and served as an economic and commercial attaché at the Luxembourg Embassy in Brussels. From March 2017 to August 2018, Hansen represented Luxembourg in the European Economic and Social Committee. From 2007 to 2014, he had worked in the European Parliament as a political adviser to the centre-right MEP Astrid Lulling on agriculture, the environment, and economic and monetary affairs. Christophe Hansen was born in 1982 in Wiltz, Luxembourg. He earned a master’s degree in geosciences, environmental sciences and risk management from Louis Pasteur University in Strasbourg in 2007.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Dubravka Šuica – Mediterranean – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Dubravka Šuica has served as a Member of the European Commission and Vice-President for Demography and Democracy since 2019. She was also the co-chair of the Conference on the Future of Europe. From 2013 to 2019, Šuica was a Member of the European Parliament, where she focused on issues relating to the environment, public health and food safety, and foreign affairs. In 2019, she was a vice-chair of the European People’s Party Group in the European Parliament. As a member of the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), Šuica served three terms in the Croatian Parliament, from 2000 until 2011, also holding the position of vice-chair of the EU Integration Committee. From 2001 to 2009, Šuica served two terms as the first female mayor of Dubrovnik, her hometown. In 2006, she was honoured with the World Mayor Award. From 2004 to 2009, Šuica was a board member of the Union of the Association of Towns and Municipalities of Croatia. She later served as a councillor on the Dubrovnik-Neretva County Assembly. She also served as the president of the Croatian Delegation to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe for a decade. Since 2012, she has chaired the HDZ Committee on Foreign Affairs and European Affairs, and has been the vice-president of EPP Women. Born in 1957, Šuica graduated in English and German language and literature. She started her career in education, first as a teacher and later as director of Dubrovnik High School.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Urgent activation of the EU Solidarity Fund for Madeira – P-001692/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF)[1] can only be activated at the request of Portugal which has a deadline of 12 weeks as from the first damage occurred, demonstrating that the total direct damage exceeds the thresholds specified in Article 2 Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002. The EUSF may cover a part of the costs for emergency and recovery operations incurred by public authorities[2]. Pursuant to Article 2(3) of the above Regulation, the EUSF may provide support to outermost regions in cases of ‘regional natural disasters’ if the direct damage exceeds 1% of the concerned region’s gross domestic product (instead of the normally applicable excess of 1.5% of direct damage).

    Support is also available under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development[3] for prevention, restoration and resilience against fires, with a planned amount in Madeira of EUR 36.6 million for 2014-2022, and EUR 11.9 million for 2023-2027.

    2. In its communication on the Outermost regions[4], the Commission has committed itself to supporting actions on risk prevention and resilience as regards natural disasters, fostering knowledge exchange and giving due consideration when implementing the EUSF. The Commission is also fully committed to offer all possible support to Portugal and the outermost regions, including Madeira, in its fight against the wildfires.

    • [1] Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012
    • [2] This means, for example, the recovery of essential infrastructure, provision of temporary accommodation to the population, cleaning-up operations, and protection of the cultural heritage.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 establishing rules on support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States under the common agricultural policy (CAP Strategic Plans) and financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1305/2013 and (EU) No 1307/2013, OJ L 435/1, 6.12.2021.
    • [4] COM(2022) 198 final.
    Last updated: 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Water scarcity is causing serious problems in many parts of Greece – E-001474/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Neither the Water Framework Directive[1], the Drinking Water Directive[2] nor the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive[3] establishes whether the management and supply of water should be done by the public administration or by private entities. Moreover, Article 12 of Directive 2014/23[4] explicitly excludes the water sector from its scope, leaving the organisation and governance of water services a matter of national competence.

    2. Greece is a major beneficiary of EU funding including for water infrastructures. Cohesion Policy[5] supports Greece with more than EUR 1 billion to modernise infrastructures including water transportation and wastewater treatment plants. For instance, in November 2022 Greece received EUR 21.1 million from the Cohesion Policy Funds[6] for upgrading its water infrastructures. Moreover, the European Regional Development Fund[7] and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development[8] also co-fund measures in Greece to improve regional water infrastructures. Importantly, the selection of projects under all these funds remains ultimately the responsibility of each Member State. Within Greece’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP)[9], a water regulatory authority has been established with the aim to strengthen the institutional framework, supervise the water sector and ensure the sustainability of water services, while Greece benefits from RRP funding for water supply and water saving infrastructures. Greece also participates in several research and innovation projects of Horizon Europe[10] for water resilience like ‘Water Security for the Planet’[11], ‘PRIMA’[12] and ‘A Soil Deal for Europe’[13].

    • [1] Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy, OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1-73, as amended by Commission Directive 2014/101/EU of 30 October 2014, OJ L 311, 31.10.2014, p. 32-35.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2020 on the quality of water intended for human consumption (recast), OJ L 435, 23.12.2020, p. 1-62.
    • [3] Council Directive 91/271/EEC of 21 May 1991 concerning urban waste-water treatment, OJ L 135, 30.5.1991, p. 40-52.
    • [4] Directive 2014/23/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 February 2014 on the award of concession contracts, OJ L 94, 28.3.2014, p. 1-64.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/what/investment-policy_en
    • [6] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/cohesion-fund_en
    • [7] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [8] Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 establishing rules on support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States under the common agricultural policy (CAP Strategic Plans) and financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1305/2013 and (EU) No 1307/2013, OJ L 435/1, 6.12.2021.
    • [9] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en
    • [10] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en
    • [11] https://www.water4all-partnership.eu/
    • [12] https://prima-med.org/
    • [13] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/soil-deal-europe_en
    Last updated: 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement on the competitiveness of EU companies – E-001988/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001988/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Julie Rechagneux (PfE), Fabrice Leggeri (PfE), Valérie Deloge (PfE), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Mathilde Androuët (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), France Jamet (PfE), Angéline Furet (PfE), Philippe Olivier (PfE), Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE)

    France’s opposition to the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement is justified. This draft agreement poses a serious threat to our food and environmental sovereignty. We have to protect our farmers against products that do not comply with the standards applied within Europe.

    There are also legitimate concerns about the agreement’s impact on the competitiveness of EU firms and fairness in international trade. This agreement could distort competition as a result of the discrepancy in the social and environmental standards in the two regions. Allowing products that do not meet our standards to enter the EU would weaken our farmers and the most vulnerable sectors.

    The competitiveness of EU firms is thus at risk from products from countries where the social and environmental standards are much less rigorous. Competition with less regulated countries undermines our competitiveness and the economic balance in the EU, irrespective of the repeated assurances from the Commission, which appear to be insufficient.

    In view of this:

    • 1.How will the Commission assess and prevent the economic and social impact of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement on the vulnerable sectors of the EU economy?
    • 2.What steps will it take to support our producers who are at risk from distortions of competition?

    Submitted: 8.10.2024

    Last updated: 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Elafibranor approved to treat adults with a rare liver disease known as primary biliary cholangitis

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved elafibranor (Iqirvo) to treat adult patients with a rare type of liver disease known as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).

    PBC is a type of chronic liver disease in which the small bile ducts in the liver become injured and inflamed and are eventually destroyed. Where there are damaged bile ducts, bile builds up and causes liver damage. This disease can get gradually worse over time and without treatment may lead to liver failure.

    Elafibranor helps to improve how the liver works by reducing the amount of bile acids the liver produces and reducing the build-up of bile. It also acts by reducing inflammation of the liver.

    The recommended dose is one tablet, once a day, at about the same time each day for adult patients. Elafibranor may be given by itself or together with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA).

    Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

    Enabling safe access to high quality, safe and effective medicines is a key priority for us.

    We’re assured that the appropriate regulatory standards of safety, quality and effectiveness for the approval of this new formulation have been met.

    As with all products, we will keep its safety under close review. 

    The MHRA’s approval of the medicine is supported by evidence from a placebo-controlled main study involving 161 adults with PBC, the majority of whom had been taking UDCA for at least one year and continued taking it during the study (though some had stopped taking due to side effects).

    The measure of effectiveness was based on the number of patients whose blood levels of the substances Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and bilirubin (markers of liver damage) decreased to a level considered normal (for both ALP and bilirubin) and by at least 15% (for ALP) after 1 year of treatment.

    The study showed that elafibranor was more effective than placebo at reducing the blood levels of ALP and bilirubin. Overall, levels decreased by the required amount in around 51% (55 out of 108) of patients treated with elafibranor, compared with around 4% (2 out of 53) of patients on placebo.

    A full list of all side effects reported with this medicine is available in the patient information leaflet or from the product information published on the MHRA website. 

    If a patient experiences any side effects, they should talk to their doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the product information leaflets.

    Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine is encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors  

    • The new marketing authorisation was granted for elafibranor (Iqirvo) on 04 October 2024 to Ipsen Ltd via National Procedure.
    • More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.
    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Removal of hereditary peers from Parliament moves a step closer with Second Reading in the House of Commons

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The landmark legislation will remove the right of the remaining 92 hereditary peers to sit and vote in the House of Lords and is the largest constitutional reform to the UK Parliament in a quarter of a century

    • Bill will deliver largest constitutional change to Parliament in a quarter of a century
    • Removal of hereditary peers is an important step in creating a second chamber more reflective of modern Britain, inclusive of women and those from diverse backgrounds
    • The UK is one of two countries with a hereditary element to its Parliament

    Today [Tuesday 15 October] the House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill moves a step closer to becoming law with its Second Reading in the House of Commons. 

    The landmark legislation will remove the right of the remaining 92 hereditary peers to sit and vote in the House of Lords and is the largest constitutional reform to the UK Parliament in a quarter of a century. 

    This Bill is the first step in delivering the manifesto commitment to update the UK’s constitution, delivering long overdue and essential reform to the heart of Westminster. 

    The UK remains one of just two countries in the world with a hereditary element in its legislature. The first steps to ending this were taken in 1999 when most hereditary peers lost their right to sit in the House of Lords under the House of Lords Act 1999. This new Bill, introduced last month, will complete that process and will be the first step in wider reform of the House of Lords.

    Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, Paymaster General & Minister for the Constitution and European Union Relations, said:

    The Government’s commitment to reform the House of Lords is demonstrated by taking action in the first 100 days of governing. It is indefensible that, in the twenty-first century, there are seats in our legislature allocated by an accident of birth. This is a long-overdue reform and a progressive first step on the road of change.

    To maintain trust in our democratic institutions it is important our second chamber reflects modern Britain.

    Baroness Smith of Basildon, Leader of the House of Lords, said:

    The Government is determined to deliver on its promise to reform the House of Lords. Given the ambitious scale of reform it is right we consult on proposals, taking a phased and pragmatic approach to ensure change is delivered.

    Should the Bill pass its Second Reading today it will then progress to Committee Stage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Turkey: British Embassy Bilateral Programme Fund

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The call for bids under The British Embassy Bilateral Programme is now open

    The British Embassy in Ankara invites eligible organisations to submit project proposals for funding under the Bilateral Programme Fund. A total of £100,000 is available for projects in two thematic areas, with £50,000 allocated to each:

    Women and Girls Thematic Area

    • Improved Access to Education and Skills Training
    • Economic Empowerment

    Social Foundations Thematic Area

    • Improved Media Capacity and Training of Journalists
    • Greater Public Awareness of Climate and Gender Issues
    • Strengthened Civic Space

    Eligibility and Guidelines

    We are seeking proposals from NGOs, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and other relevant partners that align with the objectives of the Fund’s strategic priorities. Projects should demonstrate clear impact, measurable outcomes, and strong value for money.

    Given the limited time for implementation, applicants must adhere to the following deadlines:

    • Proposal Submission Deadline: 31 October 2024
    • Spending Requirement: At least 80% of the allocated funds must be spent by 31 December 2024

    Projects with innovative approaches, strategic partnerships, or pilot initiatives with the potential for scale-up are particularly encouraged to apply.

    How to Apply

    Please submit your proposals, using the required format (below), to bef.projects@fcdo.gov.uk by 31 October 2024. Late applications will not be considered.

    Contact Information

    For inquiries or further details, please contact us at bef.projects@fcdo.gov.uk

    British Embassy Bilateral Programme Fund

    Annexes:

    Annex_1_-_British_Embassy_Bilateral_Programme_-_Bidding_Guidance

    ODT, 12.9 KB

    This file is in an OpenDocument format

    Annex 2 – Project Proposal Form above £10k

    ODT, 61.1 KB

    This file is in an OpenDocument format

    Annex 3 – Activity Based Budget Template

    ODS, 10 KB

    This file is in an OpenDocument format

    Annex 4 – Due Diligence Questionnaire

    ODT, 76.2 KB

    This file is in an OpenDocument format

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: The Eclipse Foundation Releases the 2024 Jakarta EE Developer Survey Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s largest open source software foundations, today announced the availability of the 2024 Jakarta EE Developer Survey Report, the industry’s most prominent survey for technical insights into enterprise Java. The results showcase a significantly increased growth in the use of Jakarta EE and a growing interest in cloud native Java overall. The 2024 Jakarta EE Developer Survey Report can be downloaded in its entirety here.

    “The growing adoption of Jakarta EE and cloud native Java technologies shows that the enterprise Java ecosystem continues to evolve in line with modern development practices,” said Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation. “With Jakarta EE 11 on the horizon, we are committed to delivering innovations that align with the evolving needs of the enterprise Java ecosystem.”

    Now in its seventh year, the Jakarta EE Developer Survey continues to be a vital resource for understanding developer needs, preferences, and trends within the Java ecosystem. It also offers business leaders valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cloud native enterprise Java, helping them shape their strategies. Conducted from March 19 to May 31, 2024, the survey gathered insights from 1409 participants, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the current state of enterprise Java.

    Key findings from the 2024 survey include:

    • Spring/Spring Boot remains the leading Java framework for cloud native applications, while Jakarta EE and MicroProfile have seen notable growth.
    • Jakarta EE adoption continues to rise, with 32% of respondents having migrated (up from 26% in 2023).
    • Jakarta EE 10 adoption has doubled to 34%, indicating a strong shift towards newer versions, while usage of Java EE 8 has declined from 46% to 40%.
    • Interest in aligning Jakarta EE with Java SE innovations, such as Records and Virtual Threads, has also grown (37%, up from 30% in 2023).
    • The top five priorities for the Jakarta EE community include better support for Kubernetes, microservices, adapting to Java SE innovations, support for testing improvements, and faster innovation.

    The Jakarta EE community welcomes contributions and participation from individuals and organisations alike. With the Jakarta EE Working Group hard at work on the upcoming Jakarta EE 11 release, which includes innovative cloud native features, there’s no better time to join this vibrant community and make your voice heard. Get involved and connect with the global community by visiting us here.

    For organisations that rely on enterprise Java, the Jakarta EE Working Group offers a unique opportunity to shape its future. Membership not only supports the community’s sustainability but also provides access to marketing initiatives and direct engagement with key contributors. Explore the benefits of membership here.

    Quotes from Jakarta EE Working Group Member Organizations

    IBM

    “Jakarta EE continues its drive to deliver innovation developers can use as shown by its widespread and increasing adoption,” said Ian Robinson, CTO IBM Application Runtimes. “With a combination of standard APIs and operational efficiency in our Liberty runtime and tooling, IBM is bringing complete Jakarta EE compatibility and production support, along with MicroProfile, making it ideal for cloud native applications.”

    Microsoft

    “We are glad to see the Java ecosystem continue to remain vibrant, including both Spring and Jakarta EE,” said Scott Hunter, Microsoft VP of Product, Azure Developer Experience. “We are especially proud to play a key role in the upcoming Jakarta EE 11 release alongside our partners Oracle, IBM, Red Hat, and Broadcom.”

    Oracle

    “The survey shows growing adoption of and interest in Jakarta EE and MicroProfile technologies, along with the latest Java versions, in microservices and hybrid architectures, across multiple clouds, with AI integration,” said Tom Snyder, VP of Engineering, Oracle Enterprise Cloud Native Java. “Oracle’s investments in WebLogic Server, Helidon, Coherence, Java and AI are aligned with these trends. We’re excited to be working with the community to build future generations of enterprise Java.”

    Payara

    “Payara strongly believes that Jakarta EE offers an ideal platform to support the development of future-proof, forward-looking applications, and the 2024 Jakarta EE Developer Survey Report reaffirms this vision,” said Steve Millidge, CEO and Founder at Payara Services. “The growing adoption of Jakarta EE, especially with the upcoming Jakarta EE 11 and the creation of the Jakarta EE Future Directions Interest Group, underscores its ability to evolve and meet the ever-changing demands of modern enterprise environments. Payara is committed to supporting Jakarta EE’s evolution, as we see its flexibility, standardisation, and vendor-neutrality as key enablers for developers building the cloud native, scalable, and interoperable applications of the future.”

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 420 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 385 members. Visit us at this year’s Open Community Experience (OCX) conference on 22-24 October 2024 in Mainz, Germany. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.

    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    Nichols Communications for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    514 Media Ltd for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives investigate blackmail offences targeting Chinese community

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating a series of blackmail offences affecting the Chinese community in Islington have released images of people they want to identify and speak with.

    Since January, a number of victims have been approached in the areas around Chapel Market and Liverpool Road by suspects who asked if they knew a doctor before demanding they withdraw large quantities of money from nearby ATMs. The victims were told that if they refused, their family members would “mysteriously” get hurt in the coming days.

    Detective Constable Paulo Roberts, leading this investigation, said: “These incidents left the victims incredibly shaken and we know it has caused huge concern within the Chinese community.”

    “I want to assure local people that extensive enquiries have been conducted, and our work is still ongoing. The images we have are good quality and I am sure there is someone out there who will recognise these individuals.”

    Anyone who has information about people pictured should report online, dial 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting CAD 3232/14OCT24.

    To remain 100 per cent anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor announces capital’s annual Diwali on the Square celebrations

    Source: Mayor of London

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today announced that the capital’s annual Diwali on the Square celebrations will return to Trafalgar Square on Sunday 27 October.

    The free family-friendly celebration of the Festival of Lights will bring together Londoners and visitors in the heart of the capital to enjoy a fantastic programme of dance, music, activities and food from 1-7pm.

    Delivered in partnership with the volunteer-led Diwali in London committee, and supported by headline sponsor Remitly, the event will showcase the very best of culture from London’s Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities.

    The afternoon opens with a burst of colour and music as 200 traditionally dressed dancers are set to perform in the centre of Trafalgar Square.

    There will be a variety of market stalls and free, family-friendly activities to enjoy. These includes dance workshops, yoga and meditation, comedy from Soho Theatre, Sari and Turban tying and the Glimpse of Goddesses stall where visitors can find out more about Hindu goddesses. New this year is the Bhajan singing space where groups will perform throughout the day.

    Visitors can also enjoy South Asian food, with a range of caterers serving up delicious traditional and fusion vegan and vegetarian cuisine.  

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Diwali on the Square is a fantastic family celebration of light and colour. It brings together Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds to mark the symbolic victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance with a packed programme of entertainment. As global tensions continue to affect us all, Diwali’s central messages of peace and hope are more pertinent than ever. By uniting to celebrate our diversity, we are showing why our capital is the greatest city in the world, as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”

    Parul Jani, of the Brahmin Society North London, and Chair of Diwali in London Committee 2024, said: “On our 23rd year of Diwali on Trafalgar Square, always supported by the Mayor of London, wishing everyone a very Happy Diwali right from the heart. Jai Siya Ram.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Half term activities at The D-Day Story include crafts, Airfix and more

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    This October half term (28 October – 1 November) The D-Day Story is hosting a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

    On Tuesday 29 and Thursday 31 October, be inspired by the 83-metre Overlord Embroidery. During the Colour, Collage and Create family craft activity you’ll create your own unique artwork to take home. Suitable for ages three plus, it’s free with a museum ticket or annual pass.

    On Wednesday 30 October, the museum will once again welcome the Royal School of Needlework for a family stitch drop-in workshop, where you can learn embroidery stitches with an expert tutor. The D-Day Story is proud of its long-standing partnership with the prestigious Royal School of Needlework, whose members stitched the Overlord Embroidery from 1968 to 1974. Sessions run from 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm, and are free with a museum ticket or annual pass.

    An Airfix extravaganza takes place on Friday 1 November, from 11am to 3pm. Make your own genuine Airfix model to take home in this exclusive event that’s fun for kids aged eight and above. Pass on the model making passion to the next generation, or simply try out a new hobby with help from friendly volunteers. Museum admission cost plus £2 per model. No need to book but arrive early to guarantee your spot.

    Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “There is so much going on for all the family this half term at The D-Day Story, the UK’s only dedicated museum about the events of D-Day, which are free or very low cost with a museum ticket.”

    Families can also experience the family audio guide together to learn more about the fascinating D-Day objects in the museum and the stories behind those impacted by the events of June 1944. It has been specifically designed with a younger audience in mind but can be experienced by all the family.

    For the full list of events and more information about The D-Day Story, visit http://www.theddaystory.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster Magistrates’ Court hosts anti-knife crime event for local London schools

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Around 30 schoolchildren aged between 14 and 16 years took over courtroom 10 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday 14 October 2024, as part of an initiative to highlight the dangers and consequences of carrying and using a knife.

    As well as playing leading roles in a mock trial, the teenagers heard from lawyers, first aiders and campaigners about the impact of knife crime, and what actions they could take to help make our streets safer.

    The event brought together pupils from Chadwell Heath Academy and Winchmore School – two schools in areas of London most affected by knife crime – for an interactive day of learning.

    Heidi Alexander MP, Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services at the Ministry of Justice, joined the students and expressed her support, saying:

    Reducing knife crime is a priority for this government, and today’s event demonstrates the power of collaboration between the justice system, schools, and community organisations to address this issue. It is vital that young people understand the dangers of carrying knives and the devastating impact it can have on families and communities.

    I am incredibly impressed by the dedication of everyone involved in organising this initiative, and I hope it inspires these young people to make positive choices for their futures.

    HMCTS legal adviser, Ian Rawlins, who has been involved for many years in community volunteering to tackle knife crime, was the organiser behind the day. With an impressive line-up of speakers and practical sessions, the day offered students insight into the criminal justice process, support services, the role of law enforcement, and the broader impact of knife crime on lives and communities.

    Toks Adesuyan, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said:

    It’s really important that we contribute to events like this that target and engage young people, not only to inspire future legal and Civil Service careers, but also to educate on the real and devastating consequences of carrying knives.

    Some of the messages we deliver are hard-hitting, but if that means we’ve helped to divert young people away from knife crime, then we must continue to provide platforms for education in order to reduce the prevalence of violence amongst children and young adults.

    Speakers inspire and educate

    The event featured a range of expert speakers, who engaged the students with powerful talks and practical tips about community support, first aid, and self-empowerment when it comes to reducing violence among young people.

    Speakers included:

    • Tan Ikram CBE DL, the Deputy Senior District Judge, who addressed students on the importance of understanding and respecting the law
    • Toks Adesuyan, Senior District Crown Prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service, who spoke about their role in the criminal justice process
    • Saj Hussain, Detective Superintendent at the Metropolitan Police, who explained the role of the police in attempting to reduce knife crime and the steps they take when suspecting someone of knife-related offences
    • Fadi Daoud, Crime Partner at Lawrence and Co. Solicitors, who spoke about the role of a defence solicitor in representing a person accused of a criminal offence
    • The High Sheriff of Greater London, Millicent Grant KC, who explained her personal and professional experiences of the criminal justice system
    • Anti-knife crime charity Steel Warriors, which provided real-world perspectives on how knife crime can harm lives and communities
    • Street Doctors, who aim to put young people at the centre of emergency first-aid provision
    • Representatives from the Ben Kinsella Trust, a charity that aims to tackle knife crime through education and campaigning

    Students also had the opportunity to speak to professional footballer Kayne Ramsey of Charlton Athletic Football Club about following personal goals and avoiding violent crime.

    Mock trial sees teenagers take over courtroom 10

    A highlight of the day was a mock trial, organised by the National Justice Museum, in which students took on the roles of legal professionals, judges and others involved in a criminal court hearing. Through this hands-on experience, they gained a better understanding of the justice system and the consequences of breaking the law. This session aimed to raise aspirations for legal careers while offering students a new perspective on how courts work to ensure justice is served.

    For more information about the day, stay tuned to the Inside HMCTS Podcast channel on GOV.UK, where an episode about Ian’s work and the event at Westminster Magistrates’ Court will be published soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study on the rate of increase of global warming

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Nature Communications and Earth & Environment looks at the recent increase of global warming. 

    Dr Kevin Collins, Senior Lecturer Environment and Systems, Open University, said:

    “With many people and places experiencing year on year record temperatures around the globe in the last decade, it is very human to assume global warming is accelerating or ‘surging’.  However, through an authoritative statistical analysis of temperature increases since 1970, this research concludes that there is no detectable surge. Yet.

    “Instead, the results suggest global warming is occurring at a steady state. However, as the authors acknowledge, this may be because the size of any acceleration is either statistically too small, or there is simply not enough data to detect a surge in the last decade.  In other words, it is still too early to tell if the last decade (the warmest on record) represents a ‘leap’ in the warming trend.  By 2035 or 2040 we may look back and be able to see from 2015 onwards there has been a fundamental shift in the warming trend.

    “There is a very real danger that the new research is misinterpreted to show that there is no global warming or that a steady state increase in temperature means we have lots of time to act.

    “The bald statistics of a global warming world are already being lived by many populations and communities whose livelihoods are being severely impacted by heatwaves, droughts, floods, sea-level rise and other environmental changes.”

    Prof Richard Allan, Professor of Climate Science, University of Reading and National Centre for Earth Observations, said:

    “The new research highlights the difficulty in detecting an increase in the rate of surface warming, which is influenced by natural variations such as swings between warm El Niño and cool La Niña events. However, satellite observations and ocean measurements already detect a steady increase in Earth’s heating rate that is less susceptible to year to year fluctuations at the sea surface.

    “In fact, when all lines of evidence are scrutinized it is apparent that climate change is accelerating rather continuing steadily. Halting global warming by stabilizing Earth’s climate and limiting further damage from worsening extreme weather and rising sea levels is only possible through rapid and massive cuts in greenhouse gas emissions.”

     

    ‘Is the Recent Surge in Global Warming Detectable?’ by Claudie Beaulieu et al. was published in Nature Communications Earth & Environment at 22:00 UK time on Monday 14th October.

    Declared interests:

    Dr Kevin Collins: No conflicts to declare.

    Prof Richard Allan: No conflicts to declare.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Can we reduce our demand for critical minerals?

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A new report from the National Engineering Policy Centre, led by the Royal Academy of Engineering, examines how we can reduce our demand for critical materials and therefore our dependency on imports of scarce materials.

    Critical minerals are used in a number of technologies that we will increasingly rely on in a low carbon future, such as:

    • larger wind turbines, which rely on neodymium magnets
    • solar panels
    • batteries e.g. in electric vehicles, often requiring lithium cobalt, manganese, nickel
    • nuclear power, which requires chromium as well as other critical materials
    • hydrogen electrolysers, which can use a variety of rare metals

    The report presents a range of policy and engineering innovations that can reduce the UK’s dependency on critical materials and therefore its risk exposure.

    Journalists came to this online briefing to hear from three of the authors of the report.

    Speakers included:

    Dr Colin Church, Chief Executive of the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining

    Dr Charlotte Stamper, Strategic Partnerships Manager at EMR Renewables

    Tim Chapman FREng, Partner and Director of Boston Consulting Group

    Prof Joan Cordiner FREng, Chair of the National Engineering Policy Centre Working Group on materials and net zero

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens warn that when government “cuts red tape” this too often means harming environmental standards and workers’ rights

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Green Party MP for North Herefordshire, Ellie Chowns said: “Starmer’s pledge to investors that he will “cut red tape” is a tired cliché that, in practice, too often means harming environmental standards and workers’ rights. We’ve had fourteen years of successive Conservative governments promising to “cut red tape,” and all we have to show for it is a flatlining economy and falling living standards. If Starmer is serious about attracting investment to the UK, he will need a bolder approach that delivers on the “change” he promised in his election campaign. He could start by re-evaluating our relationship with our biggest trading partner, the European Union.”

    by Green Party

    Press Releases

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour’s approach to Middle East conflict “failing” as civilian death toll mounts

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Green Party Co-Leader, Carla Denyer said, “The reports over the weekend that no food has entered Northern Gaza since the 1st of October, of Israel’s attack on al-Aqsa Hospital, of chemical weapons being used to attack UNIFIL peacekeepers, of mass civilian casualties in Gaza’s Jabalia Refugee Camp and of increased rocket fire into Israel from Hezbollah are extremely disturbing. The huge numbers of civilian deaths and the prospect of widespread starvation in Northern Gaza are intolerable.

    The Labour government must recognise that violence in the Middle East is escalating rapidly and that their current approach is failing. The Government needs to consider far more direct measures to incentivise a ceasefire including an end to arms sales, the introduction of divestments, boycotts and sanctions, prosecutions for all those who have committed war crimes and a plan for a viable Palestinian state.”

    / by Green Party

    Press Releases

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rare Observation in Hidden Structure in Crystals Brings New Paradigms in Material Design for Advanced Energy Solutions

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 3:34PM by PIB Delhi

    Researchers have made a rare observation where the local crystal structure symmetry or the arrangement of atoms in the immediate vicinity of a given atom, in a crystal, reduces upon warming, contrary to the usual trend of symmetry of crystal structures increasing with rising temperatures. The study underlines the significance of chemical design in triggering unconventional phenomena in crystalline materials useful for phononics, thermoelectrics and solar thermal conversion.

    Symmetry breaking plays a crucial role in fundamental chemistry and physics. A familiar manifestation of this phenomenon is the transition of a gas to a liquid and eventually to a solid upon cooling, with each phase transition involving a reduction in symmetry.

    Thermodynamic factors like entropy (measure of disorder) and enthalpy (measure of total energy stored) of a system determines how the system responds to changing conditions like temperature fluctuations.

    Traditionally, it is believed that as a material is heated, it tends to adopt a higher crystal symmetry due to the favourable increase in entropy.

    However, recent findings by Prof. Kanishka Biswas, Ms. Ivy Maria, Dr. Paribesh Acharyya and other team members at Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bangalore, an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology, challenge this conventional understanding, especially at the local structural level of a crystal.

    Local structure of a crystal is the arrangement of atoms in the immediate vicinity of a given atom in a crystal, typically within the collection of the first and second nearest neighbour atoms around a specific atom, technically known as the first and second atomic coordination environments respectively.

    In an ideal crystal, the local structure mirrors the global structure, but in certain rare cases, they can diverge. This is precisely what the team observed in an all-inorganic two-dimensional halide perovskite, Cs2PbI2Cl2 that belongs to the family of Ruddlesden-Popper halide perovskites (class of materials with a specific crystal structure).

    Contrary to the usual trend where heating increases symmetry, this compound exhibits a decrease in local symmetry with rising temperature, while the global crystal symmetry remains unchanged. This occurs due to configurational averaging, where the distorted local symmetries average out at longer length scales, leaving the global structure intact.

    This phenomenon of local symmetry breaking upon heating is termed “emphanisis,” meaning “appearing out of nothing.” The team employed an advanced synchrotron X-ray technique which simultaneously reveals both the local and global structures of solids from their X-ray diffraction patterns, to investigate emphanisis.

    The synchrotron X-ray experiments were done in DESY, Hamburg, Germany under the India-DESY collaboration supported by Department of Science & Technology (DST), India.

    The researchers traced this unusual local symmetry breaking to the stereochemically active lone pair of lead in the compound.

    Interestingly, Cs2PbI2Cl2 accommodates two types of structural distortion — static distortions in chlorine atoms and dynamic distortions in lead atoms. These distortions result from the complex interplay between different structure-distorting effects driven by the interactions between the mixed halide (Cl and I) motif and the active lone electron pair of lead in Cs2PbI2Cl2. The distortions happen because of a competition between a mix of structure-distorting forces that arise because of interaction of different parts of the material (the mixed anions- Cl and I) with the lone electron pair on the lead atoms in Cs₂PbI₂Cl₂.

    The high temperature “emphanitic” phase is characterized as a disordered distorted state, existing at the intersection of an ordered undistorted state and an ordered distorted state.

    “Emphanisis” is a promising strategy for achieving intrinsically low lattice thermal conductivity in crystalline materials. Such materials are highly sought after for their fundamental importance and diverse applications, including phononics, thermoelectrics, solar thermal conversion, and various heat management systems.

    The study now published in Advanced Materials, underscores the fundamental and functional significance of chemical design in creating unconventional phenomena in crystalline materials. The findings suggest that understanding these thermodynamic subtleties can lead to intriguing structural transformations with broad applications.

    Publication link: https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202408008

     

    Figure 1. Schematic representations showing the evolution of local structure of a system exhibiting emphanisis.

    Prof. Kanishka Biswas (left) and Ivy Maria (right) at Solid State Chemistry Lab, JNCASR, Bangalore.

     

    ***

    NKR/DK/AG

    (Release ID: 2064973) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales radios successfully tested by the German Armed Forces to be deployed within the NATO enhanced Forward Presence

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales radios successfully tested by the German Armed Forces to be deployed within the NATO enhanced Forward Presence

    • The German Armed Forces conducted operational tests with PR4G and SYNAPS-H Thales radios to demonstrate their suitability for the needs of the multinational Battalion Group deployed by NATO.
    • Within one year, Thales has successfully delivered to the German Armed Forces radio equipment for the NATO enhanced Forward Presence (eFP).
    • These 4-week operational tests demonstrated that Thales radios are interoperable and secure.
    @Thales

    Thales radios for use in NATO enhanced Forward Presence were tested in an intensive four-week operational trial under the direction of the Army Development Office. These tests were conducted with the participation of the Army Development Office, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), the German Army’s “Test and Trial” teams and Dutch and French Armed Forces.

    The particular focus of the procurement was to provide modern, encrypted, electronic counter countermeasure (ECCM)-capable command and control radios for the multinational deployment of the enhanced Forward Presence, which can transmit voice in parallel with data and their own position.

    “During the four-week operational test, Thales PR4G and SYNAPS-H radios met the requirements so effectively that the system is deemed suitable for introduction into the German Armed Forces.. We are very pleased that there are no more obstacles for the operational use of the radios in Lithuania, where the deployed forces will have protected, modern radios.” added Christoph Ruffner, CEO and Country Director, Thales Deutschland.

    Although the soldiers had not received any training, only a short briefing, it was possible to establish operational readiness in under an hour..The radios also impressed with a stable radio network and in the range tests.

    The purpose of NATO enhanced Forward Presence is to strengthen its defensive and deterrent posture on Europe’s eastern flank. NATO battlegroups are deployed to the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania as well as to Poland and led by the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and the United States respectively.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Notice of Extraordinary General Meeting in Karolinska Development AB (publ)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The shareholders of Karolinska Development AB (publ), reg. no. 556707-5048, (“Karolinska Development” or the “Company”) are invited to the Extraordinary General Meeting (“EGM”), on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 11:00 (CET), at Cirio Law Firm, Biblioteksgatan 9, in Stockholm. Registration for the EGM will commence at 10:30 (CET).

    The Board of Directors has resolved that shareholders shall have the right to exercise their voting rights in advance through postal voting pursuant to item 13 in the articles of association. Therefore, shareholders may choose to exercise their voting rights at the EGM by attending in person, by postal voting or through a proxy.

    Participation in person

    A shareholder who would like to participate at the EGM in person must:

    both be entered in the register of the shareholders maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB as per Tuesday, November 5, 2024,

    and give notice of his or her intention to participate to the Company no later than Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the address Karolinska Development, “EGM”, Nanna Svartz väg 6A, 171 65, Solna, Sweden, or by email to eva.montgomerie@karolinskadevelopment.com. When giving notice to participate, please provide name, personal identity number or company registration number, telephone number and number of represented shares.

    Participation by postal voting

    Shareholders who wish to participate in the EGM by postal voting must:

    both be registered in the register of shareholders maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB as per Tuesday, November 5, 2024,

    and notify their intention to participate by submitting their postal vote in accordance with the instructions below, so that the postal vote is received by Karolinska Development no later than Thursday, November 7, 2024.

    Shareholders may exercise their voting rights at the EGM by voting in advance through postal voting pursuant to item 13 in the articles of association, referring to Chapter 7, Section 4 a of the Swedish Companies Act.

    For advance voting, a special form must be used. Forms in Swedish and English are available for download on the Company’s website, http://www.karolinskadevelopment.com.The advance voting form is valid as notification of participation at the EGM.

    The completed advance voting form must be received by the Company no later than Thursday, November 7, 2024. The completed form shall be sent to Karolinska Development by e-mail to eva.montgomerie@karolinskadevelopment.com or by regular mail to Karolinska Development, “EGM”, Nanna Svartz väg 6A, 171 65, Solna, Sweden. The shareholder may not provide special instructions or conditions in the advance voting form. If so, the vote (i.e. the advance vote in its entirety) is invalid. Further instructions and conditions are provided in the form for advance voting.

    Those who wish to withdraw a submitted postal vote and instead exercise their voting rights by participating in the EGM in person or through a proxy must give notice thereof to the EGM’s secretariat prior to the opening of the EGM.

    Participation by proxy

    If the shareholders are represented by proxy, a written proxy must be issued and submitted to the Company at the above address well in advance of the EGM. The proxy is valid during the period set forth in the proxy, however, at most five years from the issuance. If a proxy is issued by a legal entity, a copy of the legal entity’s registration certificate or similar document evidencing signatory powers must be enclosed. Proxy forms in Swedish and English are available for download on the Company’s website, http://www.karolinskadevelopment.com.

    Nominee registered shares

    For shareholders who have their shares nominee-registered through a bank or other nominee, the following applies in order to be entitled to participate in the meeting. In addition to giving notice of participation, such shareholder must re-register its shares in its own name so that the shareholder is registered in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden AB as of the record date Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Such re-registration may be temporary (so-called voting rights registration). Shareholders who wish to register their shares in their own names must, in accordance with the respective nominee’s routines, request that the nominee make such registration. Voting rights registration that have been requested by the shareholder at such time that the registration has been completed by the nominee no later than Thursday, November 7, 2024, will be taken into account in the preparation of the share register.

    Proposal for agenda

    1. Opening of the meeting and election of chairperson of the meeting
    2. Preparation and approval of the voting list
    3. Approval of the agenda
    4. Election of one or two persons to verify the minutes
    5. Determination of whether the meeting was duly convened
    6. Resolution on election of a new member of the Board of Directors
    7. Determination of fee to the new member of the Board of Directors
    8. Closing of the meeting

    Item 1: Election of chairperson of the meeting

    The Board of Directors proposes that the EGM resolves that Annika Andersson (lawyer at Cirio Law Firm) is appointed to chair the EGM.

    Item 6: Resolution on election of a new member of the Board of Directors

    The Company’s largest shareholder, invoX Pharma Ltd. (“invoX”), proposes that the EGM resolves to elect Will Zeng as a new director of the Board of Directors. Director Theresa Tse will resign from her position at the EGM. The current directors Hans Wigzell, Anna Lefevre Skjöldebrand, Benjamin Toogood and Philip Duong remain as directors of the Board of Directors and Hans Wigzell remains as chairperson.

    Will Zeng is born in 1993. He holds a bachelor’s degree of Economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Will Zeng has previously work at Goldman Sachs and Warburg Pincus. Will Zeng´s other current assignments include Finance Director of CTTQ Pharma Group and Special Assistant to the chairperson of the board of Sino Biopharmaceutical. Will Zeng holds no shares in the Company. Will Zeng is independent in relation to the Company and its executive management but not in relation the Company´s major shareholders.

    The composition of the Board of Directors meets the independence requirement of the Swedish Corporate Governance Code.

    Item 7: Determination of fee to the new member of the Board of Directors

    At the Annual General Meeting on 16 May 2024, it was resolved that the Board of Directors, except for the chairperson, would be paid a fixed amount of SEK 200,000 to be paid out in proportion to board meetings attended. invoX proposes that board fee to the newly elected director Will Zeng should be paid the equivalent for the time until the end of the 2025 Annual General Meeting.

    Miscellaneous

    Advance voting form, proxy form and proposal for resolution in accordance with above, are available at the Company on Nanna Svartz väg 2, 171 65, Solna, Sweden and at the Company’s website, http://www.karolinskadevelopment.com, no later than three weeks before the EGM, and will be sent to shareholders who so request and provide their postal address.

    The Board of Directors and the CEO shall, if requested by any shareholder and if the Board of Directors is of the opinion that it can be done without causing material harm to the Company, provide disclosures about conditions that may impact assessment of an item of business on the agenda.

    As per the date of this notice, there are 270,077,594 shares, representing a total of 293,074,943 votes outstanding in the Company, distributed among 2,555,261 shares of series A (with 25,552,610 votes) and 267,522,333 shares of series B (with 267,522,333 votes). As per the date of this notice, the Company holds 244,285 treasury shares of series B.

    Processing of personal data

    For information on how your personal data is processed in connection to the general meeting see the privacy policy available on Euroclear Sweden AB’s website: https://www.euroclear.com/dam/ESw/Legal/Privacy-notice-bolagsstammor-engelska.pdf

    Solna in October 2024
    Karolinska Development AB (publ)
    The Board of Directors

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Through Time podcast – NATO’s open door (2009) with former President of Croatia Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović

    Source: NATO

    The NATO Through Time podcast dives deep into NATO’s history, reflecting on how the past influences the present – and future – of the longest-lasting alliance in history. This episode features former President of Croatia Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, who was instrumental in leading her country, alongside Albania, to NATO membership in 2009.

    What was it like learning about NATO while growing up in the former Yugoslavia?
    Why did NATO launch “out-of-area” operations in the Western Balkans following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s? 
    What was the road to NATO membership like for Albania and Croatia, and how did these countries help pave the way for other countries in the region to join the Alliance?  

    In this episode, former President of Croatia Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović reflects on her country’s journey to independence and its decision to “rejoin the European family” by becoming a member of NATO and the European Union. She also speaks about how Croatia has helped other countries in southeast Europe join the Alliance, and how this experience will support the future membership of further countries, including Ukraine. In addition to serving as President of Croatia (2015-2020), she was also the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration (2005-2008), Ambassador to the United States (2008-2011) and NATO’s Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy (2011-2014), so she played a crucial role in bringing Croatia into NATO and in its early years of membership in the Alliance.   

    The podcast is available on YouTube, and on all major podcast platforms, including:

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hundreds of millions of new investment secured to get Britain building again

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones hosts roundtable with some of the biggest impact investors in the world.

    • £550m of investment secured to tackle housing crisis and get Britain building again, with new impact investment funds announced today by Schroders, Man Group and Resonance, also looking to raise over £1.2bn in coming years.
    • Chief Secretary hosts roundtable with major impact investors to instigate a new partnership to address social and environmental challenges, including affordable housing.
    • Announcement comes after £63bn of investment into Britain confirmed at International Investment Summit.

    Impact investment, whereby a fund creates beneficial social or environmental impact, has now grown to £76.8 billion in the UK in assets under management. This will result in tens of thousands of new homes are set to be built across Britain funded by over half a billion pounds worth of impact investments announced today (Tuesday 15 October).

    Coming the day after the Prime Minister announced £63bn of investment into Britain at the International Investment Summit, the commitment from three major financial institutions to invest for impact will directly tackle the most acute housing crisis in living memory, which includes at least 5,000 new homes to address social inequality. This supports the Government’s priority to get the country building again, creating more jobs and boosting the economy.  

    The announcement comes as the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones this morning hosts a roundtable with some of the biggest impact investors in the world, including Schroders, M&G, International Bank of America, Blackrock and Barclays, as the Government looks to create the right environment for impact investment across the country.

    Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones said:

    Investors tell us they want to help in delivering a better Britain. Working in partnership with government, social impact investing can change people’s lives and improve communities across the country.

    We are dedicated to creating the right environment for impact investment across the country, and the announcement of over half a billion pounds worth of impact investment building tens of thousands of new homes is a great example of the change that we are delivering on.

    These three investments funds by Schroders, Man Group and Resonance are exemplars of private capital responding to major social and environmental challenges, delivering returns while also helping to grow the economy, the government’s central mission. Today’s £550 million impact investment underpins the government’s drive to foster public-private partnerships to drive meaningful impact across the country.

    Schroders, one of the UK’s largest investment managers, has today confirmed a new £50 million allocation from Homes England, into its recently launched real estate impact fund. The fund, which has an initial target of raising £200m with the aim of ultimately delivering 5,000 homes to address social inequality and deliver an appropriate financial return to investors, expects to make its first investments before the end of 2024. It is focused on helping to deliver more social and affordable housing, regenerate town centres and invest in social infrastructure, in places where housing benefits from public transport, green spaces, schools and GP surgeries.

    Man Group, a London-headquartered global alternative investment management firm managing $178.2 billion, has also announced a further £100mn investment to deliver affordable and environmentally sustainable housing for communities across England, with 90% of homes to be designated as affordable housing. The investment will have a particular focus on delivering homes with a low carbon footprint and addressing the housing needs of key and essential workers.  This investment programme builds on the £385mn that has already been committed to affordable housing since 2021.

    Leading social impact property fund manager Resonance have today announced an expected 300% increase in investment – from £79m to £250m – into its initiative to tackle homelessness. This directly channels investment into residential property to help create pathways out of Temporary Accommodation for individuals and families. Resonance has set a target of reaching £1bn investment in this area in the next five years, so it can work directly with local authorities and housing partners across the country to help provide people at risk of homelessness with a stable home.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leader of the council welcomes announcement on National Wealth Fund

    Source: City of Leeds

    Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said:  

    “We’re pleased to hear the announcement by Chancellor Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP of the new steps for the National Wealth Fund and its headquarters in Leeds. Leeds is the UK’s second largest city for financial services, and a major hub for related professional services, and this latest announcement further reinforces the city’s progress and influence as we continue to attract major players such as the UK Infrastructure Bank, Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority who have all chosen to locate their major UK hubs in our city.  

    “These developments create exciting opportunities for local people, offering a wealth of new jobs and career paths. We have huge strengths in this area and offer a wealth of expertise underpinned by strong regional, national and international partnerships and a diverse range of businesses which puts us in a great position to support this initiative.”  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –