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Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department announces results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 alleged child sex abuse offenders arrested in FBI-led 5-day nationwide crackdown

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Seven cases move forward in Western Washington during National Child Abuse Prevention month

    Seattle – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrest of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    In the Western District of Washington, seven federal cases moved forward with criminal charges, pleas, and/or sentencings of those who target minors for sexual abuse.

    “There is no greater responsibility than protecting our children from those seeking to sexually abuse them, either online or in person,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. “The cases we prosecuted over the last month charging child sexual exploitation in person and over the internet, and child sex trafficking are examples of the difficult work we do every day with our law enforcement partners to try to keep children safe.”

    “FBI Seattle’s Violent Crimes Against Children squad and our partners are hard at work, not only during Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, but also throughout the year,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “We are arresting predators, recovering children, and assisting victims through the support of our victim specialists. Just this fiscal year in the Seattle division, we have arrested 122 subjects and identified or located 59 children.”

    These are the FBI-led child sex abuse cases prosecuted in the Western District of Washington in April 2025:

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

    The charges contained in the indictments or criminal complaints are only allegations.  A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Cecelia Gregson, Kate Crisham, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Laura Harmon. Ms. Harmon is a Senior Deputy Prosecutor with the King County Prosecutors Office, specially designated to prosecute child exploitation cases in federal court.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens New Business Recovery Center in McCracken County

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the opening of a Business Recovery Center (BRC) in McCracken County to assist small businesses, nonprofits and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurring April 2.

    Beginning Wednesday, May 7, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the BRC to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.

    The BRC’s hours of operation are listed below.

    Business Recovery Center (BRC)

    McCracken County

    McCracken County Rescue Vehicle Building Entrance

    3700 Coleman Road

    Paducah, KY 42001

    Opening: Wednesday, May 7, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

    Hours:     Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    Closed: Sunday

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face-to-face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.  

    Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.  

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.750% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 23, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is January 26, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator McConnell Advocates for Bourbon Industry During Senate Agriculture Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a hearing of the Senate Agriculture Committee, U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) questioned Chris French, the Acting Associate Chief of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, regarding the White Oak Resilience Act of 2025. Earlier this year, Senators McConnell and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the bill to provide greater federal resources and direct research into safeguarding our nation’s White Oak tree population. The bill requires the USDA and the Forest Service to coordinate research and conservation efforts, ensuring the White Oak a stable supply and a viable future. 

    Senator McConnell said during the hearing that “our iconic bourbon industry is critical to us. 95 percent of the bourbon in the world is made in Kentucky. The $9 billion industry supports agricultural, forestry, manufacturing, distilling, bottling, construction, and transportation jobs… just to name a few. Kentucky bourbon is synonymous with the White Oak tree, which is used to age our state’s signature spirit in wooden barrels. Unfortunately, 75 percent of the nation’s White Oak population is rated as mature, meaning that there will be a shortage of White Oaks within 30 years. Congress must act to ensure the preservation of this invaluable resource.” 

    Senator McConnell asked Mr. French about the Administration’s support of the White Oak Resilience Act. Mr. French said, the USDA Forest Service is “very supportive” of the overall intent of the McConnell/Warner bill, “especially with the loss that we are seeing [of White Oak trees] across the country.” 

    White Oak trees are vital to the environmental ecosystem, as well as several trademark American industries, like bourbon and furniture production. Considered the most important hardwood tree in the eastern United States, White Oak trees provide sustenance and shelter for a host of wildlife species across the country. 

    White Oak trees can take up to 25 years to reach full maturity, but a lack of seedlings has created an impending shortage that threatens the future of this species and the billions of dollars in economic impact they generate nationwide. The bipartisan legislation will help reverse the depletion of this iconic tree and address the threat its extinction poses to the American economy. 

    The White Oak Resilience Act has been included in the Fix Our Forests Act. The Committee is expected to markup the bill later this month. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Leads Press Conference on His Bill to Codify Trump’s Key Promise – No Tax on Overtime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington –U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), member of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, today led a press conference alongside U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), and Jim Justice (R-West Virginia) to highlight their bill, the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act. 
    This legislation thoughtfully puts pen to paper to deliver on President Donald Trump’s key campaign promise to give tax relief to American workers. Specifically, the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act creates an income tax deduction for overtime wage earners, targeted to help lower and middle-income Americans. Senator Marshall is advocating for this legislation to be included in the FY2025 budget reconciliation package. 
    Click HERE watch Senator Marshall’s full press conference
    Highlights from the press conference include:
    What inspired Senator Marshall to introduce the legislation:
    “I was born and raised on a farm. My first job off the farm was at a sale barn outside of El Dorado, Kansas. Every Saturday, the farmers bring in their cattle. We would sell 1,000 head, 2,000, or 3,000 head on a Saturday. A 12-hour day would be a short day there. Many days my brother and I worked 24 – 36 hours at a time. But the greatest thing I looked forward to was that time and a half after eight hours.
    “And I just remember like it was yesterday – I was making $2.30 an hour, that was the standard wage there at the sale barn… that time and a half overtime really incentivized a young person who was looking forward to buying his first car. But to my surprise, that first time I got my paycheck with that overtime, I was shocked to see how much money the government was taking out of my paycheck…”
    Senator Marshall shares stories of Kansans who would benefit from this legislation:
    “I want to share the story of a couple other people here from back home. The first is Steve Hewitt, and Steve is here in his UPS uniform. He works for the Teamsters local 696, in Topeka, Kansas, obviously a UPS driver. And this is a quote from Steve, ‘Working overtime means I’m spending more time on the road and away from my family. But thanks to this bill, being able to keep more my paycheck in my pocket would be life changing – not just for me, but for blue collar workers across the nation.’
    “The other one is from Brandon Switzer – a corrections officer at the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Teamsters, local 696 in Topeka, Kansas, again. And this is a quote from Brandon, ‘As the Chief Steward and a corrections specialist at the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, I believe being able to deduct overtime pay from taxes would allow workers to better afford day-to-day living. New legislation like this would also allow workers like me to possibly contribute more to our deferred compensation plan.’
    “The people that were constantly reaching out to me were hard working men and women saying we need someone fighting for us, someone fighting for Main Street, not just Wall Street. And I’m so proud of President Trump that he’s made this a priority, to be the President for the hard-working Americans, for people who carry a lunch pail to work.”
    On why this legislation is critical:
    “This is one of President Trump’s priorities, and it’s one of my priorities as well. You know what this would mean to a family, and I’ll turn it over to Coach Tuberville. Look, the Trump tax cuts – if we don’t make that permanent, families back home are going to get a tax increase of $2,000 a year. So, if we let this go off the books, that’s going to cost Kansas taxpayers $2,000 a year. Potentially, for a person that’s working overtime, they could save another $4,000 on taxes if this legislation is signed into law by the president. So, to me, this is like a $6,000 opportunity for hard-working folks back home. If you’re making 80, 90, or $100,000 a year back home, $6,000 is nothing to sneeze at. That will go a long way in taking care of Joe Biden’s inflation.”
    On the additional benefits of the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act:
    “I think that we should incentivize hard work, like several of us have said, addressing work shortages. I don’t know back in your states, but all I hear is we don’t have enough employees for the jobs we have. And I see American manufacturing companies starting to really spike back home as well. And again, their big challenge is a lack of people for the jobs we have. The Tax Foundation estimates this will increase economic growth by 0.2 to 0.5% annually. So, I think it actually will help grow the economy and pay for itself in its own way.”
    On how this legislation would be paid for:
    “We should never look at any issue just in a silo. I look at this one, big, beautiful bill, and think that we need to come up with $2 trillion in savings for American taxpayers. And then I think if there’s an opportunity to take some of those savings and reward hard-working men and women that we should do that. And much like the Trump tax cuts, I really think that this will accelerate the economy and add to the GDP.”
    On government revenues and spending:
    “I still think, to me, there’s even a bigger discussion here, is when the appropriation process is starting, is America willing to go on a diet and get off this sugar high that we’ve been on the last four years. We need to reprioritize where we’re spending money. We have a spending problem, much more so than a tax revenue problem.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mohamed Okash, Founding Director, Institute of Climate and Environment, Simad University

    In the sun-scorched lands of Somalia, farmers and livestock keepers have grown accustomed to the extremes of climate. In 2022, for example, the country suffered the longest drought in 40 years. This affected nearly half the national population of 18 million people. The following year, heavy and widespread flooding devastated the country’s farmlands and infrastructure.

    For a country whose economy breathes through its agriculture and livestock sectors, these extremes have adverse implications. Over 70% of the population relies on farming, herding and pastoral activities for their livelihoods. Despite these climatic shocks, agriculture contributes about 60% of Somalia’s GDP. This is down slightly from 65% two decades ago.

    The agricultural sector is diverse, yet fragile. It is made up of two primary components: crop cultivation (mainly sorghum, maize, sesame and fruit) and livestock rearing (camels, goats, sheep and cattle).

    Somalia’s strongest export offerings have included livestock and animal products, such as hides and skins, along with sesame seeds, bananas and charcoal.

    Livestock has been the cornerstone of exports for decades. It experienced strong growth from the early 2000s through the mid-2010s, but faced notable declines after 2017. This was a result of droughts, disease outbreaks and market disruptions. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Oman are among Somalia’s biggest trading partners.

    Apart from extremes of climate, the agricultural sector continues to be affected by political instability and conflict. Some of this conflict stems from disputes over water and land. These are common, particularly during times of drought, when competition for natural resources sparks conflict between settled and nomadic pastoralists.

    We are development researchers focused on the intersection of climatic vulnerability, conflict and economic resilience in fragile states. Our recent study set out to examine how the combined effects of climate change and conflict are shaping the country’s trade in agricultural and livestock products. We did this by analysing three decades (1985–2017). We analysed the long-term relationship between environmental stress, conflict events and the country’s export performance in key agricultural sectors.

    We found that erratic rainfall, rising temperatures and conflict have significantly constrained Somalia’s agricultural and livestock export performance over the past decade. While exports have not collapsed entirely, their growth trajectory has been repeatedly disrupted.

    Livestock exports, for instance, peaked in 2015–2016 at over US$530 million, but have since declined due to recurrent droughts, internal conflict and trade restrictions, including a partial import ban by Saudi Arabia in 2016.

    Our analysis confirms that a 1% rise in average temperature reduces agricultural exports by approximately 8.37%. Further, a single-unit increase in internal conflict correlates with a 0.13–0.16% drop in both livestock and crop exports in the long run.

    Although average rainfall boosts exports when available, its unpredictability creates volatility in both the short and long term. The study found that climatic shocks and ongoing conflict are deeply hurting Somalia’s agriculture and livestock exports.

    What the data says

    Our analysis, based on export figures, climate records and conflict datasets (including some from the World Bank), reveals a clear pattern: export performance rises with rainfall and declines with both rising temperatures and internal conflict.

    Banana and sorghum production have dropped by over 50% in some regions since the 1990s. Once a key export crop, bananas have nearly disappeared from Somalia’s export portfolio. Sesame remains a strong export, but yields are becoming more unpredictable.

    Heat stress, compounded by water scarcity, has reduced soil fertility and shortened growing seasons. Maize and groundnuts have been especially affected, with yields declining by up to 40% in recent drought years.

    Many of these crops were once sold in regional markets. They are now primarily consumed locally – or not grown at all.

    Overall, our research showed that Somalia’s competitiveness in global markets has weakened considerably. Livestock exports fell sharply during drought years, particularly 2011 and 2017.

    At the same time, Somalia has started importing basic food items such as maize and flour, which it used to grow domestically. This dependency is both economically and nutritionally dangerous.

    Falling production and exports

    Our analysis shows that internal conflict significantly reduces both agricultural and livestock exports in the long run. It does so by limiting market access and closing vital export corridors.

    This leads to a reliance on circuitous indirect trade routes through adjacent countries at the expense of the export economy. For example, livestock from southern Somalia can no longer reach key export ports due to insecurity.

    Violence over resources – especially water and land – frequently flares up in the central and northern rangelands between agro-pastoralists and nomadic herders. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, between 2012 and 2023, conflict alone forced more than 1.6 million people from their homes. In some of the worst years, like 2017 and 2021, over 400,000 people were displaced from their communities.

    The conflict has displaced rural populations. It has also fractured governance systems and access to international markets, making it harder for Somalia’s farmers and herders to survive.

    Extreme droughts and floods have had a severe impact on yields.

    When the rains are good, exports rise. But those rains are now unpredictable. Erratic precipitation patterns and higher temperatures have led to decreased crop yields and hampered livestock production. This is challenging the nation’s ability to sustain exports.

    What needs to be done

    In response to the challenges posed by climate change and conflicts over agricultural and livestock exports, Somalia needs strategic policy measures.

    First, Somalia should broaden the range of products it exports. Diversification reduces the country’s vulnerability to fluctuations in the market for specific goods. It also minimises risks associated with climate-related and conflict-induced disruptions, and enhances overall economic resilience.

    Second, the country must resolve internal conflicts which disrupt farming operations and displace rural communities.

    Third, the authorities should facilitate market access. Establishing export processing zones can help meet global quality standards. This would reduce the reliance on intermediaries and ensure that producers receive a fair share of profits.

    Finally, measures need to be taken to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture. The government needs to invest in climate-resilient farming systems, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting farmers in adapting to changing climatic conditions. This adaptation should include:

    • irrigation systems to reduce dependence on erratic rainfall

    • drought-resistant and heat-tolerant crop varieties

    • research, skills building and extension services to support local communities

    • integrated pest management and sustainable land and soil management.

    For Somalia, investing in agricultural exports is not merely an economic imperative. It is a development challenge that demands a multifaceted approach encompassing climate resilience, institutional strengthening and inclusive economic growth.

    – Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us
    – https://theconversation.com/somalias-exports-are-threatened-by-climate-change-and-conflict-what-30-years-of-data-tell-us-254146

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mohamed Okash, Founding Director, Institute of Climate and Environment, Simad University

    In the sun-scorched lands of Somalia, farmers and livestock keepers have grown accustomed to the extremes of climate. In 2022, for example, the country suffered the longest drought in 40 years. This affected nearly half the national population of 18 million people. The following year, heavy and widespread flooding devastated the country’s farmlands and infrastructure.

    For a country whose economy breathes through its agriculture and livestock sectors, these extremes have adverse implications. Over 70% of the population relies on farming, herding and pastoral activities for their livelihoods. Despite these climatic shocks, agriculture contributes about 60% of Somalia’s GDP. This is down slightly from 65% two decades ago.

    The agricultural sector is diverse, yet fragile. It is made up of two primary components: crop cultivation (mainly sorghum, maize, sesame and fruit) and livestock rearing (camels, goats, sheep and cattle).

    Somalia’s strongest export offerings have included livestock and animal products, such as hides and skins, along with sesame seeds, bananas and charcoal.

    Livestock has been the cornerstone of exports for decades. It experienced strong growth from the early 2000s through the mid-2010s, but faced notable declines after 2017. This was a result of droughts, disease outbreaks and market disruptions. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Oman are among Somalia’s biggest trading partners.

    Apart from extremes of climate, the agricultural sector continues to be affected by political instability and conflict. Some of this conflict stems from disputes over water and land. These are common, particularly during times of drought, when competition for natural resources sparks conflict between settled and nomadic pastoralists.

    We are development researchers focused on the intersection of climatic vulnerability, conflict and economic resilience in fragile states. Our recent study set out to examine how the combined effects of climate change and conflict are shaping the country’s trade in agricultural and livestock products. We did this by analysing three decades (1985–2017). We analysed the long-term relationship between environmental stress, conflict events and the country’s export performance in key agricultural sectors.

    We found that erratic rainfall, rising temperatures and conflict have significantly constrained Somalia’s agricultural and livestock export performance over the past decade. While exports have not collapsed entirely, their growth trajectory has been repeatedly disrupted.

    Livestock exports, for instance, peaked in 2015–2016 at over US$530 million, but have since declined due to recurrent droughts, internal conflict and trade restrictions, including a partial import ban by Saudi Arabia in 2016.

    Our analysis confirms that a 1% rise in average temperature reduces agricultural exports by approximately 8.37%. Further, a single-unit increase in internal conflict correlates with a 0.13–0.16% drop in both livestock and crop exports in the long run.

    Although average rainfall boosts exports when available, its unpredictability creates volatility in both the short and long term. The study found that climatic shocks and ongoing conflict are deeply hurting Somalia’s agriculture and livestock exports.

    What the data says

    Our analysis, based on export figures, climate records and conflict datasets (including some from the World Bank), reveals a clear pattern: export performance rises with rainfall and declines with both rising temperatures and internal conflict.

    Banana and sorghum production have dropped by over 50% in some regions since the 1990s. Once a key export crop, bananas have nearly disappeared from Somalia’s export portfolio. Sesame remains a strong export, but yields are becoming more unpredictable.

    Heat stress, compounded by water scarcity, has reduced soil fertility and shortened growing seasons. Maize and groundnuts have been especially affected, with yields declining by up to 40% in recent drought years.

    Many of these crops were once sold in regional markets. They are now primarily consumed locally – or not grown at all.

    Overall, our research showed that Somalia’s competitiveness in global markets has weakened considerably. Livestock exports fell sharply during drought years, particularly 2011 and 2017.

    At the same time, Somalia has started importing basic food items such as maize and flour, which it used to grow domestically. This dependency is both economically and nutritionally dangerous.

    Falling production and exports

    Our analysis shows that internal conflict significantly reduces both agricultural and livestock exports in the long run. It does so by limiting market access and closing vital export corridors.

    This leads to a reliance on circuitous indirect trade routes through adjacent countries at the expense of the export economy. For example, livestock from southern Somalia can no longer reach key export ports due to insecurity.

    Violence over resources – especially water and land – frequently flares up in the central and northern rangelands between agro-pastoralists and nomadic herders. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, between 2012 and 2023, conflict alone forced more than 1.6 million people from their homes. In some of the worst years, like 2017 and 2021, over 400,000 people were displaced from their communities.

    The conflict has displaced rural populations. It has also fractured governance systems and access to international markets, making it harder for Somalia’s farmers and herders to survive.

    Extreme droughts and floods have had a severe impact on yields.

    When the rains are good, exports rise. But those rains are now unpredictable. Erratic precipitation patterns and higher temperatures have led to decreased crop yields and hampered livestock production. This is challenging the nation’s ability to sustain exports.

    What needs to be done

    In response to the challenges posed by climate change and conflicts over agricultural and livestock exports, Somalia needs strategic policy measures.

    First, Somalia should broaden the range of products it exports. Diversification reduces the country’s vulnerability to fluctuations in the market for specific goods. It also minimises risks associated with climate-related and conflict-induced disruptions, and enhances overall economic resilience.

    Second, the country must resolve internal conflicts which disrupt farming operations and displace rural communities.

    Third, the authorities should facilitate market access. Establishing export processing zones can help meet global quality standards. This would reduce the reliance on intermediaries and ensure that producers receive a fair share of profits.

    Finally, measures need to be taken to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture. The government needs to invest in climate-resilient farming systems, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting farmers in adapting to changing climatic conditions. This adaptation should include:

    • irrigation systems to reduce dependence on erratic rainfall

    • drought-resistant and heat-tolerant crop varieties

    • research, skills building and extension services to support local communities

    • integrated pest management and sustainable land and soil management.

    For Somalia, investing in agricultural exports is not merely an economic imperative. It is a development challenge that demands a multifaceted approach encompassing climate resilience, institutional strengthening and inclusive economic growth.

    This research is funded by SIMAD University in Mogadishu, Somalia.

    This research is funded by SIMAD University in Mogadishu, Somalia.

    – ref. Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us – https://theconversation.com/somalias-exports-are-threatened-by-climate-change-and-conflict-what-30-years-of-data-tell-us-254146

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming Air National Guard selected for C-130J upgrade

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The Department of the Air Force has announced that the Wyoming Air National Guard base in Cheyenne has been selected to receive the C-130J Super Hercules, a modern upgrade to replace its aging fleet of C-130H aircraft.

    The decision marks a major milestone for the 153rd Airlift Wing and reflects the outstanding performance and reliability of Wyoming Airmen in support of missions at home and around the world. A total of eight C-130J aircraft will be assigned to Cheyenne, with the first deliveries expected to begin in early 2028.

    “This is a major win for the men and women of the Wyoming Air National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Greg Porter, Wyoming’s Adjutant General. “It’s a result of their hard work, the trust they’ve built across the Air Force, and the strong support we’ve received from our state and national leaders. We are grateful.”

    As part of the transition, pilots and loadmasters will undergo new training and certification, while flight engineers and navigators will be phased out of C-130J crew configurations. The changes will affect 19 manpower positions, which will be reallocated through the Air National Guard’s corporate process.

    Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon emphasized the long-term value of the investment.

    “This decision speaks volumes about the professionalism and dedication of our Cowboy Guard,” said Governor Mark Gordon. “I’m proud of the work that’s gone into making this possible and thankful to the Air Force for recognizing Wyoming as a critical part of its future. These aircraft will keep our state ready to serve—both in crisis response and in support of national missions.”

    Members of Wyoming’s congressional delegation praised the announcement as a reflection of the state’s ongoing role in national defense.

    “The men and women of the Wyoming Air National Guard represent the best of our state,” said Senator John Barrasso. “This C-130J upgrade ensures they have the tools they need to carry out missions more efficiently and effectively. It’s a well-earned investment in their capabilities and our national security.”

    Senator Cynthia Lummis added, “Wyoming’s Airmen are responsive, lethal, and always there when called. The arrival of the C-130J fleet will secure our Guard’s ability to respond quickly in emergencies, while strengthening our presence in key military operations.”

    Congresswoman Harriet Hageman echoed that sentiment: “This is a big moment for Cheyenne and the entire state of Wyoming. The C-130J upgrade reflects our Wyoming Guard’s stellar record and the community’s strong partnership with the military.”

    The 153rd Airlift Wing has long played a vital role in the Air National Guard’s airlift capabilities, including aeromedical evacuation, humanitarian relief, firefighting with the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS), and global operations. The addition of the C-130J marks the next evolution in that legacy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Western Cape signs partnerships with agricultural commodity organisations

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) and various agricultural commodity organisations have renewed their Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for another five years.

    According to the provincial government, this new agreement establishes a foundation for these organisations to continue supporting new farmers through advice, mentorship, training, access to inputs, market opportunities, and mutual in-kind contributions.

    These commodity organisations represent a wide range of interest groups associated with the agricultural sector. 

    Agreements have been signed with the various organisations including the National Wool Growers Association (NWGA), the Deciduous Fruit Producers Trust (DFPT), SA Wines, the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI), the South African Poultry Association (SAPA), Potatoes SA, Raisins SA, Grain South Africa, Berries SA, the Citrus Growers Association, the South African Pork Producers Association, the Red Meat Producers Association, and the Rooibos Producers Association.

    The Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, emphasised the vital importance of these agreements. 

    He stated that the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) recognises strategic partnerships as essential for tackling the complex challenges faced by the agricultural sector, and these MoUs are a clear indication of that commitment.

    “The department has developed and nurtured strategic partnerships over several years. These partnerships complement our work and enhance the impact of our service delivery initiatives. One such initiative is the commodity approach, which has been an enormous success for over a decade,” Meyer said. 

    The Head of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA), Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, stated that the partnership with commodity organisations aims to enhance capacity building, mentorship, market access, and resource mobilisation to support the commercialisation of new farmers in the Western Cape.

    Sebopetsa also mentioned that these commodity associations are allowed to participate in the Commodity Project Allocation Committees (CPACs). 

    The committees will play a vital role in reviewing and overseeing the farmer applications that are processed.

    “With the commodity approach, the department can augment its resources by leveraging the industry’s expertise, financial resources, and other assets, thus improving our service delivery to farmers,” Sebopetsa  said. 

    Partners recognised the importance of the commodity approach in furthering the transformation agenda and assisting producers in their journey toward commercialisation. 

    One notable partner, Mariette Kotzé, the Group Operations Manager at Hortgro, mentioned that this partnership has been in place since 2009, and its impact has been significant and immeasurable.

    “It is about making a difference. But it is also about creating an enabling environment for our growers.”

    Mecia Petersen, CEO of the South African Table Grapes Industry, which provides almost 100 000 employment positions worth R3.78 billion per annum, stressed the role of collaboration in unlocking value for the sector. 

    “Our sector has enormous potential to create many more jobs. Our ability to do so becomes easier with a reliable partner such as the Western Cape Government. This is aptly demonstrated through the Western Cape Government’s role in improving operations at the Port of Cape Town and today’s formal commitment to support the agriculture sector, which the government takes very seriously,” she added. 

    In addition, the MEC stated that the MoUs reinforce the province’s shared commitment to transforming the agricultural sector, boosting the economy, and creating jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final Sentencing Announced in Multi-State Mail and Bank Fraud Conspiracy Involving Postal Workers

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Montgomery, AL – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced the final sentencing in a wide-ranging conspiracy involving eight defendants convicted of wire, bank, and mail fraud. The convictions stem from an investigation into widespread mail theft and check fraud, which included the earlier prosecutions of two Montgomery-area postal workers.

    On May 6, 2025, 25-year-old Hunter Hudson, Jr., also known as “Hunnid K,” from Montgomery, Alabama, received a sentence of 92 months in prison after pleading guilty to wire, bank, and mail fraud. Hudson was identified as a manager within the conspiracy and based on his conduct, caused an intended loss amount of more than $1.5 million. He was ordered to pay $987,883.50 in restitution and to forfeit $91,020.41.

    The conspiracy, which took place between 2022 and 2024, involved the theft and alteration of checks that were then deposited into numerous fraudulent bank accounts. Part of the conspiracy was coordinated through a group chat titled “Fraud Academy,” as named by one of the conspirators.

    The other individuals involved in the conspiracy previously received the following sentences:

    • Brandon Michael Gage, 27, also from Montgomery, was sentenced to 135 months in prison. He was also identified as a manager within the conspiracy, with an intended loss amount exceeding $550,000. Gage was fined $25,000 and ordered to pay $65,000 in restitution.
    • Joey Payne, 26, a resident of Opelika, Alabama, received a sentence of 108 months in prison. Like Hudson and Gage, Payne was also a manager in the scheme with an intended loss amount over $550,000. He was fined $15,000 and ordered to pay $101,556.97 in restitution.
    • Reuben Kristian Brown, 26, another Montgomery resident, was sentenced to 87 months in prison. He acted as a manager in the conspiracy and had an intended loss amount of more than $1.5 million. Brown was fined $15,000 and ordered to pay $17,500 in restitution.
    • Keenan Rashaad Watson, 26, also from Montgomery, was sentenced to 60 months in prison. A manager in the conspiracy, Watson was associated with an intended loss of over $550,000. He was fined $15,000.
    • Kerry O’Shay Hawthorne, 26, another resident of Montgomery, received a sentence of 40 months in prison and was ordered to pay $49,008.95 in restitution.
    • Ethan Alexander Brown, 23, a former bank teller from Montgomery, was sentenced to 34 months in prison. He was directly involved in depositing 61 altered checks worth more than $2 million. He was ordered to pay $973,692.05 in restitution to his employer.
    • Destinie Janan James, 23, a resident of Auburn, Alabama, was sentenced to 22 months in prison. She was fined $25,000 and ordered to pay $89,000 in restitution.

    Although these sentences mark the conclusion of this indictment, the investigation is ongoing.

    “This case demonstrates the serious consequences for those who exploit public institutions and financial systems for personal gain,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Davidson. “Thanks to the dedication of our law enforcement partners, we were able to dismantle a complex criminal network and hold each participant accountable. We remain committed to pursuing those who defraud the public and threaten the integrity of our postal and banking systems.”

    “These convictions are a testament to the dedication of the investigative and legal teams and should send a strong message to any employee who thinks of conspiring with others to steal mail and commit check fraud,” said Tammy Hull, Inspector General U.S. Postal Service. “Our special agents, working with our federal and local law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively investigate these criminal activities, protecting the integrity of the Postal Service and the U.S. Mail.”

    “The United States Postal Service is a vital and trusted institution,” said Timothy J. O’Malley, Acting Special Agent in Charge with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). “Any attempt to exploit our postal or banking systems is a serious violation of the public’s trust. These actions will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Protecting the integrity of our postal and financial systems is essential and non-negotiable.”

    “The sentencing in this case should serve notice to criminals that the U.S. Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to defending the nation’s mail system from unlawful activity,” said Shameka Jackson, Acting Inspector-in-Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Houston Division. “I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all of the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted in bringing Hunter Hudson, Jr. and the other co-defendants to justice.”

    This extensive investigation was led by the United States Postal Service’s Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of Inspector General for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, with Assistant United States Attorney J. Patrick Lamb prosecuting the case.

    Additional support was provided by the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, Montgomery Police Department, Auburn Police Department, Opelika Police Department, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Prattville Police Department, Harris County (GA) Sheriff’s Office, Meriwether County (GA) Sheriff’s Office, Georgia State Troopers, Venice (FL) Police Department, and the Sarasota County (FL) Sheriff’s Office.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: EA steps up dry weather prep after driest spring start since 1956

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    EA steps up dry weather prep after driest spring start since 1956

    Driest start to spring in 69 years across England.

    The Environment Agency has urged water companies to do more to safeguard water supplies after the driest start to spring in 69 years. 

    The environmental regulator convened a meeting of the National Drought Group today (Wednesday 7 May 2025) and said more needed to be done to cut leakage and help customers use water more wisely. 

    In England, March was the driest since 1961 and April received just half its normal rainfall. Farmers have had to start irrigating crops earlier and reservoir levels are either notably low or exceptionally low across the North East and North West of England. Both these regions have seen their driest start to the year since 1929.   

    Representatives from the EA told the meeting – which includes the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, farmers and conservation experts – that while no area is currently officially in drought there is a medium risk of one this summer without sustained rainfall.

    Chairing the meeting, Environment Agency Deputy Director of Water, Richard Thompson, said:   

    The changing climate means we will see more summer droughts in the coming decades.

    The last two years were some of the wettest on record for England but drier conditions at the start of this year mean a drought is a possibility and we need to be prepared.  

    It’s heartening to see more people looking to reduce their water use and we expect water companies to do more to cut leakage and rollout smart meters.

    Whilst there are currently no plans for hosepipe bans, if the prolonged dry weather continues, water companies may need to implement their dry weather plans in the weeks and months ahead.   

    The EA is closely monitoring water companies’ implementation of these plans, especially high-risk locations, as well as working with farmers to help them plan for irrigating their crops. It is also preparing dry weather advice and information for the public, including small steps they can take to reduce usage. 

    Water Minister, Emma Hardy, said:  

    Our water infrastructure is crumbling after years of underinvestment.

    Water companies must go further and faster to cut leaks and build the infrastructure needed to secure our water supply.

    The Government has secured over £104 billion of private sector investment to fund essential infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs to secure our future water supply into the decades to come.

    The National Drought Group will meet to discuss action regularly in the coming months. At today’s meeting, attendees heard about the current water resources situation:

    • A dry start to the year means farmers have had an earlier start to the irrigation season and have seen an increased demand on their on-site storage reservoirs.   
    • Reservoir storage across England is 84% of total capacity. This compares to 90% at the end of April in the 2022 drought year.
    • River flows are currently below normal or lower for this time of year across northern and central England.   
    • Chalk groundwater levels are generally in a good position.   
    • Wildfires have been reported in Cumbria, Derbyshire and Dorset as vegetation is dry.   

    The EA has called on the group’s membership to take action to ensure they are prepared for drought. This includes:  

    • Water companies stepping-up action on leakage and preparing their dry weather plans. 
    • Water companies communicating with customers about current risk and supporting them to use water wisely during this dry period.  
    • Farmers to work with NFU to assess their water needs this summer and take action now to ensure they have enough to last the summer  
    • EA to work with fishery owners to have ensure plans are in place to manage dry weather.  

     The public can play their part too by reducing individual water consumption, such as installing a water butt in the garden to harvest rainwater, taking shorter showers, and turning off taps when not in use.  

    According to EA figures, by 2050, England will need to find an additional 5 billion litres of water a day to meet demand for public water supply. This is more than a third of the 14 billion litres of water currently put into public water supply.  

    Note to editors  

    • Each water company produces a drought plan, including measures to take when drought triggers are hit following dry weather. This includes campaigns on water usage, changes to their abstraction permits, and temporary usage bans (TUBS) – also known as hosepipe bans.   
    • The last drought was in 2022, with five water companies imposing hosepipe bans on a total of 19 million customers to ensure drinking and wastewater services were prioritised. South West Water’s ban was lifted in September 2023.   
    • More about drought can be found here: Are we prepared for a drought? The water resilience challenge – Creating a better place

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graduate Student Research Symposium Recognizes Academic Excellence and Innovation

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    For the first time at UConn, graduate students across all seven campuses had the opportunity to present their work at a single event: the Graduate Student Research Symposium. 

    Much of UConn’s graduate students’ research addresses real-world issues, allowing this inaugural symposium to not only celebrate academic excellence, but to also spotlight the impact graduate research has on Connecticut and beyond.  

    “Graduate students are having such a large impact on our community and on our state,” said Joy A. Hamer ’25 JD, the chief organizer of the symposium. “It was my mission to unite all seven of UConn’s branch campuses and showcase the hard work of our students.”

    Hamer, who serves as the graduate student trustee on the UConn Board of Trustees, started envisioning the event that ultimately became the poster competition while campaigning for her trustee position. A key part of her campaign was going to all of UConn’s campuses and meeting with graduate students to hear about their experiences and find ways to help them succeed.

    “Ultimately, what I found is most graduate students—irrespective of location or field of study—are conducting research that is very much interdisciplinary. For example, students studying pharmacy in Storrs, law in Hartford, or marine biology in Avery Point may all be focusing their research on environmental sustainability. Unfortunately, as we’re so dispersed across the state, a lot of our research becomes siloed,” said Hamer. 

    Alvaro Daniel Pantoja-Benavides shares his research on agricultural practices (Paula Steele / UConn Photo)

    Hamer’s mission was to highlight not only the work of graduate students but also how their research benefits the places where they live and work, which culminated in the April 23 symposium held at Rome Commons Ballroom at UConn Storrs.

    With scores of posters on display and hundreds in attendance, the symposium showcased the impressive breadth and depth of graduate research at UConn.

    In the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources’ Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, Ph.D. candidate Alvaro Daniel Pantoja-Benavides presented his findings regarding the extent to which the Gray Water Footprint (GWF) – the volume of fresh water required to assimilate pollutants to meet water quality standards – can be used as an indicator to compare the environmental impacts of agricultural practices. His work provides insight into how irrigation and fertilizing strategies can be advanced while maintaining sustainable practices.  

    “This has given me great opportunities to show how research can impact the environment and agriculture,” said Pantoja-Benavides. “If we know how to utilizes strategies to practice agriculture better and teach people more about it, it will benefit so many.”

    Each student who competed in the Symposium Poster Competition had their work categorized into one of six interdisciplinary research categories, with each category recognizing a winner and runner-up, followed by the winners competing in a final round. The overall winner and runner-up in the final round both came from the department of Molecular and Cellular Biology in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. 

    Ph.D. candidate Caroline Vieira da Silva won overall in the Cognition, Health, and Medicine category and then won the final round for her research titled, “Identification and characterization of the surface layer protein AvsA in outer membrane vesicles, antibiotic resistance, and in vivo host colonization in Aeromonas veronii.” Ph.D. candidate Sarah Pasqualetti came in first in the Economy, Energy, and Environment category, and was the overall runner-up for her work with microplastics.  

    One goal Hamer kept in mind while planning the poster competition was to give graduate students the opportunity to present their research to wider audiences, especially individuals who are not in their respective fields.  

    “Because we’re so dedicated to our research, as graduate students, it becomes easy to communicate exclusively in terms of art and industry jargon. This can make comprehension difficult for someone who isn’t in that discipline,” said Hamer. “So, the point is to be able to articulate and explain your research across sectors.

    Although poster competitions are commonly found in STEM fields, said Hamer, they seem to be translatable across disciplines. “As a law student, I’ve primarily participated in Moot Court, Mock Trial, and Negotiation competitions—all of which are very industry-specific.” Hosting this event as a poster competition offers graduate students of any field the chance to participate in sharing their findings. Additional formats such as pitch competitions and video competitions are in the works for the future iterations of the symposium.

    “It’s been helpful to learn how to communicate my research with different audiences,” said Muireann Nic Corcráin, a Ph.D. candidate in Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies. “Talking to departments who aren’t in my field and don’t initially understand my work can further show the importance of cultural revival.”

    Keegan Jalbert presents research to a judge at the Graduate Student Research Symposium (Paula Steele / UConn Photo)

    In her research titled, “I Have a Voice: Towards the Development of Synthetic Voices for the Passamaquoddy Language,” Corcráin focused on the language revitalization of the Passamaquoddy language.  

    This Native American language is only spoken by 12% of 3,600 members, according to Corcráin’s research, which motivated her to work towards developing a text-to-speech synthetic voice for the language.  

    Her commitment to language revitalization and developing resources for ancestral languages, like the Passamaquoddy language, led her work to be recognized as the runner-up in the Humanity, Culture, and Arts category of the competition.  

    “It’s nice to be able to research something that has an impact on so many people, and that UConn provides us with these resources to do so,” said Julia Jerolamon, a Ph.D. student in the department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. Her research focuses on deactivating a protein that, when found in high levels, has been shown to reduce survivability rates among patients with cancer.

    Hamer, who worked closely with Leslie Shor, Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Dean of The Graduate School, on organizing the event, said she was thrilled with the successful debut of what she expects to become a regular event for UConn graduate students.

    “This was our very first year, and I am so proud of our team and our engagement with the students. We’re looking forward to hosting this again in the future,” said Hamer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rodney Butler, Ahead of CAHNR Commencement Speech, Reflects on Decades Spent Helping His Tribe

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, never aspired to become a Tribal leader. Yet, he has served on tribal council for over two decades, overseeing tremendous progress for his tribe.

    Butler ‘99 (BUS) will deliver the commencement address for the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) on May 10, 2025. He will also be awarded an honorary degree “in recognition of extraordinary and lasting distinction.”

    “I can’t think of someone more deserving and better suited to usher our class of 2025 into their next chapter,” says CAHNR Dean Indrajeet Chaubey. “Rodney’s ability to make a difference through innovation, collaboration, and a drive for the common good is remarkable. It’s a model we can all look to and learn from.”

    Butler studied finance at UConn and initially intended to work on Wall Street.

    From left, Chief/Treasurer Marilyn Malerba, former Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, and Rodney Butler in DC. (Contributed photo)

    “I’ve had my own savings account since I was four or five years old, and I’ve always been an avid investor,” Butler says. “The stock market was pretty steady in the 90s and my father set me up with a small investment account and I was dabbling with that and growing that, and I just fell in love with finance and analytics.”

    Butler was also a member of the UConn Football team, playing defensive back during his undergraduate years.

    After graduation, Butler returned to Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation to work as a financial analyst for Foxwoods Resort Casino. He later served as the interim CEO of Foxwoods in 2018.

    “Coming out of college and coming back to work for my tribe, it was just such an incredible honor to be able to do that, to give back to my community and work for my family,” Butler says.

    Butler transitioned to managing the Tribe’s non-gaming assets, like hotels, golf courses, and a pharmaceutical company. Through this work, Butler joined various governmental committees that support the Tribal Council.

    “I enjoyed it, and I was making contributions,” Butler says. “Even then, though, I didn’t think I would get into tribal leadership.”

    When Tribal Council elections rolled around in 2004, a cousin encouraged Butler to run. And he won.

    Two weeks later, Butler’s first child, his son, was born.

    “It gave me a much different perspective,” Butler says. “Yes, I’m doing this for my larger tribal family. But what I’m working for every single day is that baby at home and making sure that I’m doing right by him. It kept me humbled, grounded, and focused on long term success for the Tribe.”

    After seeing the Tribe through the 2008 financial crisis as its treasurer, Butler was elected to his first term as chairman in 2010. He has held the position ever since.

    Butler, center, with the UConn Native American and Indigenous Studies team at the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation powwow. (Contributed photo)

    “Because [my tribe] it’s my family, it’s personal, and every day knowing that I’m working to make a life better for them, and the tens of thousands of people who rely on Pequot, that’s very, very rewarding and keeps you driven,” Butler says.

    Despite his profile as a leader, Butler credits everything he does to community efforts.

    “What I do, especially in this position, is all about teamwork and working together for a collective success,” Butler says.

    The Mashantucket Pequot Nation was federally recognized in 1983. Since then, the tribe has made great strides developing their economy and community infrastructures.

    “What we’ve done in the last 40 years as a Tribal Nation, going from rocky ledge and wooded land, raising pigs and producing maple syrup, to a billion-dollar enterprise with multiple business units and a thriving community…to me that’s the accomplishment,” Butler says. “There’s been so much growth in a very short period of time that you just can’t help but be proud of what this community has accomplished.”

    Since 2017, the Tribe has partnered with UConn Extension to develop their agricultural infrastructure.

    This partnership has been supported by a Federally Recognized Tribes Extension Program grant through the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture program.

    This collaboration stemmed from the initiative of tribal members who wanted to develop agriculture to support the tribe’s food sovereignty, or the ability of a community to feed itself.

    “It initially was just a labor of love by my cousins Jeremy Whipple and Councilor Menihan with a dream to achieve food sovereignty,” Butler says. “Their efforts and the relationship with UConn kept blossoming organically into a thriving agriculture department that has become a core initiative for our community.”

    Meechooôk Farm on the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is now a vibrant food producer for the tribe. The farm includes produce, cattle, hydroponic tunnels, and a sugar shack.

    In 2021, the Tribe established the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Department of Agriculture.

    “The passion of everyone at UConn for this and the commitment that UConn has made to the tribe and vice versa – these are lifelong friendships that just continue creating success as we grow our agriculture initiatives here,” Butler says.

    Butler (front left) at Meechooôk Farm on the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation with former General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Janie Simms Hipp, and CAHNR Dean Indrajeet Chaubey (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)

    Mashantucket Pequot recently hosted a food sovereignty conference with more than 30 tribes from the Northeast represented, highlighting their relationship with UConn and how it has supported the tribe’s food sovereignty efforts.

    “We as a tribe have the ability to provide for our own in a way that we didn’t prior,” Butler says. “We’re thankful that UConn has been committed to helping us get to this level of self-resilience from a food perspective, and we’re continuing to build on it.”

    This work is one example of many that Butler has seen throughout his life and career that highlights the importance of collaboration.

    Butler encourages this year’s graduating class to remember, as he has, that everything is built through working with others.

    “I live through the notion that people are all so interconnected and you have to realize how much we need each other,” Butler says. “Real success is pulling others in, lifting them up, working together, and having that shared success.”

    Follow UConn CAHNR on social media

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Canada: 7Bit Casino Voted #1 by Experts for Canadian Players

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Italy’s areas of wartime fascist resistance remain less susceptible to the far right today

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Juan Masullo, Assistant Professor, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University

    Across Europe, far-right parties are making unforeseen breakthroughs – from local councils to national and supranational parliaments. As their presence becomes normalised, these parties promote nationalist rhetoric, challenge democratic institutions, and attempt to reshape a political present rooted in hard-won struggles against authoritarianism.

    Yet, not all communities are equally permeable to these growing forces. Some actively resist, mobilising to block authoritarian ideologies and defend democratic values.

    Our recent research in Italy offers one explanation as to why some communities are less easily enticed into far-right politics than others. Local histories of wartime resistance continue to shape political cultures in ways that, even generations later, inspire people to push back against the resurgence of fascist and neo-fascist ideologies.

    In areas where anti-fascist resistance movements were active during the second world war, civic engagement to defend democratic values is stronger. In these communities, support for far-right parties is weaker.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences. Join The Conversation for free today.

    These legacies aren’t accidental. They are cultivated, reinforced, and passed on through intensive and continuous local memory work.

    During Italy’s civil war (1943–1945), students, workers, farmers and clergy mobilised into bands of resistance to fight the Nazi-fascist regime. Their efforts were central to Italy’s liberation and the establishment of its democratic republic. While this story is often told at the national level, our research examines its enduring local consequences.

    Using an original dataset mapping resistance activity across about 8,000 Italian municipalities, we compared places with strong partisan mobilisation to those without. Even today, eight decades later, residents of areas with a resistance past are more likely to support initiatives that counter far-right ideologies.

    This was especially evident in the response to a recent initiative. In 2020 and 2021, a grassroots campaign proposed a law to ban the public glorification of fascism. To bring it for discussion before parliament, the campaign needed 50,000 signatures.

    Despite the pandemic, it collected over 240,000 within a few months. While support was widespread, municipalities with strong resistance histories were significantly more likely to participate. Our estimates show roughly 40% more signatures in these places.

    These patterns suggest that wartime resistance can leave legacies that translate into contemporary political behaviour. But data alone can’t explain how these legacies endure. That’s where our fieldwork comes in.

    We have been closely studying towns with deep resistance roots and strong support for the 2021 initiative to see how they keep these legacies alive and who is involved.

    We have followed (and participated in) memorialisation efforts in the Cuneo region, one of the main centres of wartime resistance, and in areas deeply affected by Nazi violence and known for creating some of the strongest partisan brigades. These include villages around Stazzema in Tuscany and Marzabotto in Emilia.

    The main insight is that remembrance isn’t just ceremonial – it’s part of daily life. Schools, hiking clubs, cultural associations, and city halls all contribute to preserving and activating the memory of resistance.

    One public elementary school in the rural hills around Bologna, for example, created a “memory garden” to honour local residents who died fighting fascism. Through interviews, art and storytelling, students have engaged directly with their community’s past, creating not only a commemorative space but a living bridge between generations.

    The memorial garden planted by students in.
    J Masullo, CC BY-ND

    Similarly, local Alpine clubs in Emilia Romagna and Piedmont restored partisan trails through the mountains, now used for memory treks. These hikes attract people who might not otherwise engage politically but who, by walking the paths of wartime partisans, connect with stories of sacrifice and solidarity. What begins as recreation becomes an encounter with democratic values.

    These deeply localised memory efforts – anchored in the names, stories and spaces of the community – often intensify during democratic threats. The 2021 campaign emerged amid growing support for parties like Lega and Fratelli d’Italia (Brothers of Italy).

    Related studies show that when exclusionary welfare policies gain ground, local communities sometime organise in defence of vulnerable groups. In towns with a resistance past, local “memory entrepreneurs” doubled their efforts in response to far-right victories.

    Memory as a political battle

    This is not just an Italian phenomenon. Across Europe, historical memory is a political battleground. In Germany, the Stolpersteine – brass plaques in sidewalks commemorating Nazi victims – serve as grassroots reminders that shape civic attitudes. In Hungary, activists have created “living memorials” to Holocaust victims, directly contesting government efforts to whitewash fascist collaboration.

    These commemorations also have measurable political effects. In Berlin, neighbourhoods where one or more Stolpersteine was placed before an election saw fewer votes for the far-right AfD (a 0.96%-point decrease) compared to those with no Stolpersteine. This happened across federal, state and EU elections between 2013 and 2021.

    A stolperstein in Berlin.
    Wikipedia/Drrcs15, CC BY-SA

    What unites these efforts is a belief that remembering the past matters – not only to honour it, but to shape the future. Local narratives of wartime resistance and victimisation help instil democratic values and inoculate communities against authoritarianism.

    But this doesn’t happen automatically. It requires effort. Teachers, students, parents, associations, and local councils all play a role in keeping memory alive and politically meaningful.

    Recognising this is especially vital today, when the meaning of anti-fascism itself is a polarising subject. Far-right leaders, including those in office, downplay and discredit the resistance’s legacy, replacing it with revisionist myths.

    A local cycling club marks liberation day with a tour of monuments dedicated to partisans.
    J Masullo, CC BY-ND

    When communities take ownership of their histories, they are more likely to uphold democratic principles not only in ceremonies, but at the ballot box and in everyday actions. The past is never just the past. The legacies of wartime resistance continue to shape how people view democracy, justice, and belonging. In times like these, remembering the resistance is more than homage – it is civic defence.

    Juan Masullo has received funding for this research from UNUWIDER and Leiden University.

    He is affiliated with the University of Milan.

    Simone Cremaschi has received funding for this research from UNUWIDER, the European Research Council (grant number 864687), and Leiden University.

    – ref. Italy’s areas of wartime fascist resistance remain less susceptible to the far right today – https://theconversation.com/italys-areas-of-wartime-fascist-resistance-remain-less-susceptible-to-the-far-right-today-255859

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Tuesday, 6 May 2025 – Strasbourg – Final edition

    Source: European Parliament

    PV-10-2025-05-06

    EN

    EN

    iPlPv_Sit

    Minutes
    Tuesday, 6 May 2025 – Strasbourg

     Abbreviations and symbols

    + adopted
    – rejected
    ↓ lapsed
    W withdrawn
    RCV roll-call votes
    EV electronic vote
    SEC secret ballot
    split split vote
    sep separate vote
    am amendment
    CA compromise amendment
    CP corresponding part
    D deleting amendment
    = identical amendments
    § paragraph

    IN THE CHAIR: Martin HOJSÍK
    Vice-President

    1. Opening of the sitting

    The sitting opened at 09:02.


    2. Request for an urgent decision (Rule 170)

    The President had received two requests for urgent decisions in accordance with Rule 170(5):

    – REGI Committee – Amending ERDF, Cohesion Fund and Just Transition Fund as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review ***I (COM(2025)0123 – C10-0063/2025 – 2025/0084(COD))

    – EMPL Committee – European Social Fund (ESF+): specific measures to address strategic challenges ***I (COM(2025)0164 – C10-0064/2025 – 2025/0085(COD))

    The votes on both requests would be taken on Wednesday 7 May 2025.

    The agenda was amended accordingly.


    3. A unified EU response to unjustified US trade measures and global trade opportunities for the EU (debate)

    Council and Commission statements: A unified EU response to unjustified US trade measures and global trade opportunities for the EU (2025/2657(RSP))

    Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Maroš Šefčovič (Member of the Commission) made the statements.

    The following spoke: Jörgen Warborn, on behalf of the PPE Group, Iratxe García Pérez, on behalf of the S&D Group, Jordan Bardella, on behalf of the PfE Group, Nicola Procaccini, on behalf of the ECR Group, Valérie Hayer, on behalf of the Renew Group, Bas Eickhout, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Martin Schirdewan, on behalf of The Left Group, René Aust, on behalf of the ESN Group, Michał Szczerba, Kathleen Van Brempt, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Adam Bielan, Karin Karlsbro, Anna Cavazzini, Manon Aubry, Petr Bystron and Fabio De Masi.

    IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Lukas Sieper, to put a question to Fabio De Masi, who answered it, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez, Bernd Lange, Anna Bryłka, Daniele Polato, Svenja Hahn, Saskia Bricmont, Lynn Boylan, Lukas Sieper, Eva Maydell, Brando Benifei, Enikő Győri, Jaak Madison, Benoit Cassart, Virginijus Sinkevičius, Pasquale Tridico, Željana Zovko, who also answered a blue-card question from Petras Gražulis, Yannis Maniatis, Isabella Tovaglieri, Rihards Kols, Ľubica Karvašová, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Li Andersson, Angelika Niebler, Camilla Laureti, Sebastian Kruis, Kris Van Dijck, Barry Cowen, Isabella Lövin, Lídia Pereira, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Javier Moreno Sánchez, Petra Steger, Adrian-George Axinia, Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Raphaël Glucksmann, Jean-Paul Garraud, Marion Maréchal, Paulo Do Nascimento Cabral, Francisco Assis, Alexandr Vondra, Mika Aaltola, Evin Incir, Francesco Torselli, Jüri Ratas, Andi Cristea, Maria Walsh, Tonino Picula, Borja Giménez Larraz, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Nina Carberry, Salvatore De Meo, Carmen Crespo Díaz, Luděk Niedermayer, Ingeborg Ter Laak and Miriam Lexmann.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Francisco José Millán Mon, Maria Grapini, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Hilde Vautmans, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Marc Botenga, Kostas Papadakis, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, João Oliveira, Ana Miranda Paz, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Lucia Annunziata, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis and Dariusz Joński.

    The following spoke: Maroš Šefčovič and Adam Szłapka.

    The debate closed.


    4. CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles for 2025 to 2027 (debate)

    Statements by Parliament: CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles for 2025 to 2027 (2025/2700(RSP))

    The following spoke: Jens Gieseke, on behalf of the PPE Group, Mohammed Chahim, on behalf of the S&D Group, Jordan Bardella, on behalf of the PfE Group, Carlo Fidanza, on behalf of the ECR Group, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy, on behalf of the Renew Group, Kai Tegethoff, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Per Clausen, on behalf of The Left Group, and Siegbert Frank Droese, on behalf of the ESN Group.

    The debate closed.

    (The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)


    IN THE CHAIR: Younous OMARJEE
    Vice-President

    5. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 12:05.


    6. Voting time

    For detailed results of the votes, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.


    6.1. CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles for 2025 to 2027 ***I (vote)

    Amending Regulation (EU) 2019/631 to include an additional flexibility as regards the calculation of manufacturers’ compliance with CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles for the calendar years 2025 to 2027 [COM(2025)0136 – C10-0062/2025 – 2025/0070(COD)] – ENVI Committee

    REQUEST FOR AN URGENT DECISION from the ECR Group, and jointly from the PPE, S&D and Renew groups (Rule 170(6))

    Approved

    The following tabling deadlines had been set:

    – amendments: Wednesday 7 May 2025 at 13:00
    – requests for separate votes and split votes: Wednesday 7 May 2025 at 19:00

    Vote: 8 May 2025.

    The following had spoken:

    Ondřej Krutílek, on behalf of the ECR Group (author of the request), before the vote.

    Detailed voting results


    6.2. The protection status of the wolf (Canis lupus) ***I (vote)

    The protection status of the wolf (Canis lupus) [COM(2025)0106 – C10-0044/2025 – 2025/0058(COD)] – ENVI Committee

    REQUEST FOR AN URGENT DECISION from the ENVI Committee (Rule 170(6))

    Approved

    The following tabling deadlines had been set:

    – amendments: Wednesday 7 May 2025 at 13:00
    – requests for separate votes and split votes: Wednesday 7 May 2025 at 19:00

    Vote: 8 May 2025.

    The following had spoken:

    Sebastian Everding, against the request, before the vote.

    Detailed voting results


    6.3. Amendments to the Capital Requirements Regulation as regards securities financing transactions under the net stable funding ratio ***I (vote)

    Amendments to the Capital Requirements Regulation as regards securities financing transactions under the net stable funding ratio [COM(2025)0146 – C10-0059/2025 – 2025/0077(COD)] – ECON Committee

    REQUEST FOR AN URGENT DECISION from the ECON Committee (Rule 170(6))

    Approved

    The following tabling deadlines had been set:

    – amendments: Wednesday 7 May 2025 at 13:00
    – requests for separate votes and split votes: Wednesday 7 May 2025 at 19:00

    Vote: 8 May 2025.

    Detailed voting results


    6.4. Request for the waiver of the immunity of Petr Bystron (vote)

    Report on the request for waiver of the immunity of Petr Bystron [2024/2047(IMM)] – Committee on Legal Affairs. Rapporteur: Pascale Piera (A10-0077/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)67)

    Detailed voting results


    6.5. Request for the waiver of the immunity of Petras Gražulis (vote)

    Report on the request for waiver of the immunity of Petras Gražulis [2024/2089(IMM)] – Committee on Legal Affairs. Rapporteur: Pascale Piera (A10-0078/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)68)

    Detailed voting results


    6.6. Request for the waiver of the immunity of Grzegorz Braun (vote)

    Report on the request for the waiver of the immunity of Grzegorz Braun [2024/2102(IMM)] – Committee on Legal Affairs. Rapporteur: Dainius Žalimas (A10-0081/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)69)

    Detailed voting results


    6.7. Border regions’ instrument for development and growth (BRIDGEforEU) ***II (vote)

    Recommendation for second reading on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on a mechanism to resolve legal and administrative obstacles in a cross-border context [17102/1/2024 – C10-0057/2025 – 2018/0198(COD)] – Committee on Regional Development. Rapporteur: Sandro Gozi (A10-0058/2025)

    The President informed the House that no proposals for rejection or amendment had been tabled in accordance with Rules 68 and 69 with regard to the Council’s position.

    The Council position was therefore deemed approved.

    The proposed act was thus adopted (P10_TA(2025)70)

    The following had spoken:

    Before the President’s announcement, Sandro Gozi (rapporteur), to make a statement under Rule 165(4).

    Detailed voting results


    6.8. Amending Regulation (EU) 2016/1011 as regards the scope of the rules for benchmarks, the use in the Union of benchmarks provided by an administrator located in a third country, and certain reporting requirements ***II (vote)

    Recommendation for second reading on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2016/1011 as regards the scope of the rules for benchmarks, the use in the Union of benchmarks provided by an administrator located in a third country, and certain reporting requirements [05123/1/2025 – C10-0055/2025 – 2023/0379(COD)] – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. Rapporteur: Jonás Fernández (A10-0060/2025)

    The President informed the House that no proposals for rejection or amendment had been tabled in accordance with Rules 68 and 69 with regard to the Council’s position.

    The Council position was therefore deemed approved.

    The proposed act was thus adopted (P10_TA(2025)71)

    Detailed voting results


    6.9. European Union labour market statistics on businesses ***II (vote)

    Recommendation for second reading on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on European Union labour market statistics on businesses, repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 530/1999 and Regulations (EC) No 450/2003 and (EC) No 453/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council [17082/1/2024 – C10-0054/2025 – 2023/0288(COD)] – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. Rapporteur: Irene Tinagli (A10-0057/2025)

    The President informed the House that no proposals for rejection or amendment had been tabled in accordance with Rules 68 and 69 with regard to the Council’s position.

    The Council position was therefore deemed approved.

    The proposed act was thus adopted (P10_TA(2025)72)

    Detailed voting results


    6.10. Amendments to the International Health Regulations contained in the Annex to Resolution WHA77.17 and adopted on 1 June 2024 *** (vote)

    Recommendation on the draft Council decision inviting Member States to accept, in the interest of the European Union, the amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) contained in the Annex to Resolution WHA77.17 and adopted on 1 June 2024 [17046/2024 – COM(2024)0541 – C10-0005/2025 – 2024/0299(NLE)] – Committee on Public Health. Rapporteur: Adam Jarubas (A10-0064/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    DRAFT COUNCIL DECISION

    Approved (P10_TA(2025)73)

    Detailed voting results


    6.11. Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers: application EGF/2024/003 BE/Van Hool – Belgium (vote)

    Report on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers following an application from Belgium – EGF/2024/003 BE/Van Hool [COM(2025)0001 – C10-0056/2025 – 2025/0061(BUD)] – Committee on Budgets. Rapporteur: Janusz Lewandowski (A10-0080/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)74)

    Detailed voting results


    6.12. Protection of the European Union’s financial interests – combating fraud – annual report 2023 (vote)

    Report on the protection of the European Union’s financial interests – combating fraud – annual report 2023 [2024/2083(INI)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Gilles Boyer (A10-0049/2025)

    The debate had taken place on 5 May 2025 (minutes of 5.5.2025, item 19).

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)75)

    Detailed voting results


    6.13. Control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2023 (vote)

    Report on the control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2023 [2024/2052(INI)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Ondřej Knotek (A10-0068/2025)

    The debate had taken place on 5 May 2025 (minutes of 5.5.2025, item 21).

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)76)

    Detailed voting results

    13

    (The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)


    7. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 12:28.


    8. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

    The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.


    9. A revamped long-term budget for the Union in a changing world (debate)

    Report on a revamped long-term budget for the Union in a changing world [2024/2051(INI)] – Committee on Budgets. Rapporteurs: Siegfried Mureşan and Carla Tavares (A10-0076/2025)

    Siegfried Mureşan and Carla Tavares introduced the report.

    The following spoke: Piotr Serafin (Member of the Commission).

    The following spoke: Hilde Vautmans (rapporteur for the opinion of the AFET Committee), Barry Andrews (rapporteur for the opinion of the DEVE Committee), Dirk Gotink (rapporteur for the opinion of the CONT Committee), Damian Boeselager (rapporteur for the opinion of the ECON Committee), Romana Tomc (rapporteur for the opinion of the EMPL Committee), Michalis Hadjipantela (rapporteur for the opinion of the ENVI Committee), Christian Ehler (rapporteur for the opinion of the ITRE Committee), Aura Salla (rapporteur for the opinion of the IMCO Committee), Rosa Serrano Sierra (rapporteur for the opinion of the TRAN Committee), Dragoş Benea (rapporteur for the opinion of the REGI Committee), Stefano Bonaccini (rapporteur for the opinion of the AGRI Committee), Hannes Heide (rapporteur for the opinion of the CULT Committee), Loucas Fourlas (rapporteur for the opinion of the LIBE Committee), Sven Simon (rapporteur for the opinion of the AFCO Committee), Alexandra Geese (rapporteur for the opinion of the FEMM Committee), Karlo Ressler, on behalf of the PPE Group, Jean-Marc Germain, on behalf of the S&D Group, Julien Sanchez, on behalf of the PfE Group, Bogdan Rzońca, on behalf of the ECR Group, Fabienne Keller, on behalf of the Renew Group, Rasmus Nordqvist, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, João Oliveira, on behalf of The Left Group, Milan Uhrík, on behalf of the ESN Group, Danuše Nerudová, Gabriele Bischoff, Jana Nagyová, Johan Van Overtveldt, Lucia Yar, Rasmus Andresen, Alexander Jungbluth, Isabel Benjumea Benjumea and Jens Geier.

    IN THE CHAIR: Roberts ZĪLE
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Annamária Vicsek, who also answered a blue-card question from Gabriella Gerzsenyi, Ruggero Razza, Joachim Streit, Maria Ohisalo, Janusz Lewandowski, Sandra Gómez López, Dick Erixon, Anouk Van Brug, Hélder Sousa Silva, Dario Nardella, Fernand Kartheiser, Moritz Körner, who also answered a blue-card question from Rasmus Andresen, Georgios Aftias, Estelle Ceulemans, Laurence Trochu, Charles Goerens, Nina Carberry, René Repasi, Kristoffer Storm, Katri Kulmuni, Herbert Dorfmann, Victor Negrescu, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Vlad Vasile-Voiculescu, Andrey Novakov, Giuseppe Lupo, Antonella Sberna, Péter Magyar, Marcos Ros Sempere, Elena Nevado del Campo, Evin Incir, Thomas Bajada, Matjaž Nemec and André Rodrigues.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Paulo Do Nascimento Cabral, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Lukas Sieper, Nikolina Brnjac, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis and Nils Ušakovs.

    The following spoke: Piotr Serafin, Siegfried Mureşan and Carla Tavares.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: 7 May 2025.


    10. Discharge 2023 (joint debate)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Commission, executive agencies and European Development Funds
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section III – Commission, executive agencies and the ninth, tenth and eleventh European Development Funds [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0067/2024 – 2024/2019(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Niclas Herbst (A10-0074/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Parliament
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section I – European Parliament [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0068/2024 – 2024/2020(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Monika Hohlmeier (A10-0062/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Council and Council
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section II – European Council and Council [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0069/2024 – 2024/2021(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0052/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Court of Justice of the European Union
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section IV – Court of Justice [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0070/2024 – 2024/2022(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Cristian Terheş (A10-0050/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Court of Auditors
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section V – Court of Auditors [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0071/2024 – 2024/2023(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Dick Erixon (A10-0047/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Economic and Social Committee
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section VI – European Economic and Social Committee [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0073/2024 – 2024/2025(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0054/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Committee of the Regions
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section VII – Committee of the Regions [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0074/2024 – 2024/2026(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0046/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Ombudsman
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section VIII – European Ombudsman [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0075/2024 – 2024/2027(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0055/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Data Protection Supervisor
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section IX – European Data Protection Supervisor [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0076/2024 – 2024/2028(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0053/2025)

    Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European External Action Service
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section X – European External Action Service [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0072/2024 – 2024/2024(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0069/2025)

    Discharge 2023: European Public Prosecutor’s Office
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office for the financial year 2023 [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0077/2024 – 2024/2029(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Tomáš Zdechovský (A10-0051/2025)

    Discharge 2023: Agencies
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agencies for the financial year 2023 [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0078/2024 – 2024/2030(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Erik Marquardt (A10-0065/2025)

    Discharge 2023: Joint Undertakings
    Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the EU joint undertakings for the financial year 2023 [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0079/2024 – 2024/2031(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Michal Wiezik (A10-0056/2025)

    Niclas Herbst, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Cristian Terheş, Dick Erixon, Monika Hohlmeier, Tomáš Zdechovský, Erik Marquardt and Michal Wiezik introduced the reports.

    The following spoke: Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council), Piotr Serafin (Member of the Commission) and Tony Murphy (President of the Court of Auditors).

    The following spoke: Michael Gahler (rapporteur for the opinion of the AFET Committee).

    IN THE CHAIR: Martin HOJSÍK
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Romana Tomc (rapporteur for the opinion of the EMPL Committee), Antonio Decaro (rapporteur for the opinion of the ENVI Committee), Gheorghe Falcă (rapporteur for the opinion of the TRAN Committee), Giuseppe Lupo (rapporteur for the opinion of the PECH Committee), Nela Riehl (rapporteur for the opinion of the CULT Committee), Sven Simon (rapporteur for the opinion of the AFCO Committee), Tomáš Zdechovský (rapporteur for the opinion of the LIBE Committee), Lina Gálvez (rapporteur for the opinion of the FEMM Committee), Dirk Gotink, on behalf of the PPE Group, Mohammed Chahim, on behalf of the S&D Group, Julien Sanchez, on behalf of the PfE Group, Marco Squarta, on behalf of the ECR Group, Olivier Chastel, on behalf of the Renew Group, Daniel Freund, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Jonas Sjöstedt, on behalf of The Left Group, Sarah Knafo, on behalf of the ESN Group, Kinga Kollár, Carla Tavares, Angéline Furet, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Gilles Boyer, Pasquale Tridico, Arno Bausemer, who also answered a blue-card question from Lukas Sieper, Céline Imart, José Cepeda, Anders Vistisen, Marion Maréchal, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy, Marit Maij, Nikola Bartůšek, Maciej Wąsik, Christophe Clergeau, Fabrice Leggeri, Gheorghe Piperea, Evin Incir and Tiago Moreira de Sá.

    IN THE CHAIR: Pina PICIERNO
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Fernand Kartheiser, Nils Ušakovs and Csaba Dömötör.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Sebastian Tynkkynen and Lukas Sieper.

    The following spoke: Tony Murphy, Piotr Serafin, Adam Szłapka, Niclas Herbst, Monika Hohlmeier, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Cristian Terheş, Dick Erixon, Tomáš Zdechovský, Erik Marquardt and Michal Wiezik.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: 7 May 2025.


    11. Protecting Greenland’s right to decide its own future and maintain the rule-based world order (debate)

    Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Protecting Greenland’s right to decide its own future and maintain the rule-based world order (2025/2689(RSP))

    Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Henrik Dahl, on behalf of the PPE Group, Christel Schaldemose, on behalf of the S&D Group, Anders Vistisen, on behalf of the PfE Group, Kristoffer Storm, on behalf of the ECR Group, Stine Bosse, on behalf of the Renew Group, Villy Søvndal, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Emma Fourreau, on behalf of The Left Group, Niels Flemming Hansen, Yannis Maniatis, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Urmas Paet, Ignazio Roberto Marino, Per Clausen, David McAllister, Niels Fuglsang, Morten Løkkegaard, Michael Gahler, Tonino Picula, Michał Szczerba, Mika Aaltola and Jüri Ratas.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Pernando Barrena Arza and Lukas Sieper.

    The following spoke: Kaja Kallas.

    The debate closed.


    12. An urgent assessment of the applicability of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (PDCA) with Cuba (debate)

    Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: An urgent assessment of the applicability of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (PDCA) with Cuba (2025/2697(RSP))

    Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Gabriel Mato, on behalf of the PPE Group, Leire Pajín, on behalf of the S&D Group, Hermann Tertsch, on behalf of the PfE Group (the President reminded the speaker of the rules on conduct), Arkadiusz Mularczyk, on behalf of the ECR Group, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, on behalf of the Renew Group, Ana Miranda Paz, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Irene Montero, on behalf of The Left Group, and Elena Nevado del Campo.

    IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Nacho Sánchez Amor, Nora Junco García, who also answered a blue-card question from Anthony Smith, Pernando Barrena Arza, Ľuboš Blaha, who also answered blue-card questions from Arkadiusz Mularczyk and Anthony Smith, Alice Teodorescu Måwe, Francisco Assis, Mariusz Kamiński, Martin Sonneborn, Antonio López-Istúriz White and Francisco José Millán Mon.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Jaume Asens Llodrà, João Oliveira, Maria Zacharia, Leila Chaibi, Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos, Kateřina Konečná and Lukas Sieper.

    The following spoke: Kaja Kallas.

    The debate closed.


    13. The European Water Resilience Strategy (debate)

    Report on the European Water Resilience Strategy [2024/2104(INI)] – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety. Rapporteur: Thomas Bajada (A10-0073/2025)

    Thomas Bajada introduced the report.

    The following spoke: Jessika Roswall (Member of the Commission).

    The following spoke: Michal Wiezik (rapporteur for the opinion of the AGRI Committee), Carmen Crespo Díaz, on behalf of the PPE Group, Christophe Clergeau, on behalf of the S&D Group, Mireia Borrás Pabón, on behalf of the PfE Group, Alexandr Vondra, on behalf of the ECR Group, Grégory Allione, on behalf of the Renew Group, Jutta Paulus, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group (the President reminded the House of the rules on conduct), Giorgos Georgiou, on behalf of The Left Group, Anja Arndt, on behalf of the ESN Group, Peter Liese, Annalisa Corrado, André Rougé, Anna Zalewska, Ana Vasconcelos, Tilly Metz, Emma Fourreau, Ingeborg Ter Laak, César Luena, Rody Tolassy, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Emma Wiesner, Pär Holmgren, Dimitris Tsiodras, Heléne Fritzon, Mathilde Androuët, Paolo Inselvini, Jeannette Baljeu, Cristina Guarda, Lídia Pereira, Antonio Decaro, Esther Herranz García, Günther Sidl, Dan-Ştefan Motreanu, András Tivadar Kulja, Stefan Köhler and Sander Smit.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Krzysztof Hetman.

    IN THE CHAIR: Nicolae ŞTEFĂNUȚĂ
    Vice-President

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Viktória Ferenc, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Ana Miranda Paz, Lukas Sieper, Kostas Papadakis and Maria Zacharia.

    The following spoke: Jessika Roswall and Thomas Bajada.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: 7 May 2025.


    14. 2023 and 2024 reports on Türkiye (debate)

    2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Türkiye [2025/2023(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Nacho Sánchez Amor (A10-0067/2025)

    Nacho Sánchez Amor introduced the report.

    The following spoke: Marta Kos (Member of the Commission).

    The following spoke: Isabel Wiseler-Lima, on behalf of the PPE Group, Yannis Maniatis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Nikola Bartůšek, on behalf of the PfE Group, Geadis Geadi, on behalf of the ECR Group, Malik Azmani, on behalf of the Renew Group, Vladimir Prebilič, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Giorgos Georgiou, on behalf of The Left Group, Tomasz Froelich, on behalf of the ESN Group, Emmanouil Kefalogiannis, Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, Afroditi Latinopoulou, Emmanouil Fragkos, Lucia Yar, Mélissa Camara, Özlem Demirel, Kostas Papadakis, Loucas Fourlas, Vivien Costanzo, Matthieu Valet, Tineke Strik, Jonas Sjöstedt, who also answered a blue-card question from Beatrice Timgren, Maria Zacharia, Alice Teodorescu Måwe, Evin Incir, Silvia Sardone, Fidias Panayiotou, Łukasz Kohut, Andreas Schieder, Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi, Davor Ivo Stier, who also answered a blue-card question from Geadis Geadi, Reinhold Lopatka and Michalis Hadjipantela.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Costas Mavrides, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Sebastian Everding and Nikolas Farantouris.

    The following spoke: Marta Kos.

    IN THE CHAIR: Younous OMARJEE
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Nacho Sánchez Amor.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: 7 May 2025.


    15. Welcome

    On behalf of Parliament the President welcomed a group of young people from Serbia who had taken their seats in the distinguished visitors’ gallery.


    16. 2023 and 2024 reports on Serbia (debate)

    Report on the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Serbia [2025/2022(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Tonino Picula (A10-0072/2025)

    Tonino Picula introduced the report.

    The following spoke: Marta Kos (Member of the Commission).

    The following spoke: Davor Ivo Stier, on behalf of the PPE Group, Kathleen Van Brempt, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Stephen Nikola Bartulica, on behalf of the ECR Group, Helmut Brandstätter, on behalf of the Renew Group, Vladimir Prebilič, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Danilo Della Valle, on behalf of The Left Group, Michał Szczerba, Thijs Reuten, who also answered a blue-card question from Tomislav Sokol, António Tânger Corrêa, Cristian Terheş, Irena Joveva, Gordan Bosanac, Liudas Mažylis, Andreas Schieder, Annamária Vicsek, Matej Tonin, Thierry Mariani and Tomislav Sokol.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Loucas Fourlas, Matjaž Nemec, Kristian Vigenin and Sebastian Tynkkynen.

    The following spoke: Marta Kos and Tonino Picula.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: 7 May 2025.


    17. 2023 and 2024 reports on Kosovo (debate)

    Report on the 2023 and 2024 Commission Reports on Kosovo [2025/2019(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Riho Terras (A10-0075/2025)

    Riho Terras introduced the report.

    The following spoke: Marta Kos (Member of the Commission).

    The following spoke: Davor Ivo Stier, on behalf of the PPE Group, Elio Di Rupo, on behalf of the S&D Group, Matthieu Valet, on behalf of the PfE Group, Ivaylo Valchev, on behalf of the ECR Group, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, on behalf of the Renew Group, Thomas Waitz, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Merja Kyllönen, on behalf of The Left Group, Stanislav Stoyanov, on behalf of the ESN Group, Liudas Mažylis, Matjaž Nemec and Alexander Sell.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Thijs Reuten and Sebastian Tynkkynen.

    The following spoke: Marta Kos and Riho Terras.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: 7 May 2025.


    18. Explanations of vote


    18.1. Written explanations of vote

    Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.


    19. Agenda of the next sitting

    The next sitting would be held the following day, 7 May 2025, starting at 09:00. The agenda was available on Parliament’s website.


    20. Approval of the minutes of the sitting

    In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the beginning of the afternoon of the next sitting.


    21. Closure of the sitting

    The sitting closed at 22:29.


    ATTENDANCE REGISTER

    Present:

    Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Annunziata Lucia, Antoci Giuseppe, Arias Echeverría Pablo, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benea Dragoş, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Beňová Monika, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blinkevičiūtė Vilija, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bogdan Ioan-Rareş, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Brudziński Joachim Stanisław, Bryłka Anna, Buchheit Markus, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Daniel, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Bullmann Udo, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Cârciu Gheorghe, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Cristea Andi, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Deutsch Tamás, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Do Nascimento Cabral Paulo, Donazzan Elena, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Estaràs Ferragut Rosa, Everding Sebastian, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fernández Jonás, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firea Gabriela, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Georgiou Giorgos, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glück Andreas, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomes Isilda, Gómez López Sandra, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Grims Branko, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guarda Cristina, Guetta Bernard, Győri Enikő, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hauser Gerald, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Henriksson Anna-Maja, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Hölvényi György, Homs Ginel Alicia, Humberto Sérgio, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kaljurand Marina, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovařík Ondřej, Kovatchev Andrey, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyllönen Merja, Kyuchyuk Ilhan, Lakos Eszter, Lalucq Aurore, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Loiseau Nathalie, Løkkegaard Morten, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, López-Istúriz White Antonio, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Magyar Péter, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Manda Claudiu, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Mantovani Mario, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Maréchal Marion, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martusciello Fulvio, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Mato Gabriel, Mavrides Costas, Maydell Eva, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, Mažylis Liudas, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Mehnert Alexandra, Meimarakis Vangelis, Meleti Eleonora, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Milazzo Giuseppe, Millán Mon Francisco José, Minchev Nikola, Miranda Paz Ana, Molnár Csaba, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moratti Letizia, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Motreanu Dan-Ştefan, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Nardella Dario, Navarrete Rojas Fernando, Negrescu Victor, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neuhoff Hans, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Nica Dan, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ondruš Branislav, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Panayiotou Fidias, Papadakis Kostas, Pappas Nikos, Pascual de la Parte Nicolás, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Pereira Lídia, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pietikäinen Sirpa, Pimpie Pierre, Piperea Gheorghe, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Popescu Virgil-Daniel, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radev Emil, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Ressler Karlo, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Ridel Chloé, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Šarec Marjan, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schnurrbusch Volker, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Simon Sven, Singer Christine, Sinkevičius Virginijus, Sippel Birgit, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Søvndal Villy, Squarta Marco, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Ştefănuță Nicolae, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strack-Zimmermann Marie-Agnes, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Sypniewski Marcin, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Târziu Claudiu-Richard, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Teodorescu Georgiana, Teodorescu Måwe Alice, Terheş Cristian, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomac Eugen, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Tudose Mihai, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Uhrík Milan, Ušakovs Nils, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Overtveldt Johan, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vasile-Voiculescu Vlad, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Verougstraete Yvan, Veryga Aurelijus, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Vind Marianne, Vistisen Anders, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wölken Tiemo, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zan Alessandro, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zijlstra Auke, Zīle Roberts, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma, Zoido Álvarez Juan Ignacio, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan

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    Verheyen Sabine

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Measures to support the agriculture and fisheries industry

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Professor the Hon Priscilla Leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question:

         It has been reported that the traditional agriculture and fisheries industry is facing the challenges of transformation and sales promotion. Regarding the measures to support the agriculture and fisheries industry, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) given that the Government currently assists fishermen and farmers in overcoming the problem of capital shortfall through various measures (e.g. the Sustainable Fisheries Development Fund and the Farm Improvement Scheme), which enable them to enhance production efficiency and product quality with the use of modernised equipment or technologies, whether the Government has assessed the effectiveness of such measures; if so, of the details;

    (2) as there are views pointing out that fishermen and farmers generally lack market information and marketing skills to sell agricultural and fisheries products, whether the Government has, apart from organising the FarmFest annually and developing the “Local Fresh” mobile app and shopping website, considered providing them with training related to sales and promotion, as well as establishing more platforms and channels for selling agricultural and fisheries products; and

    (3) as there are views that the supply chain of local agricultural and fisheries products is plagued by the problem of insufficient preservation and transportation facilities, how the Government improves the logistics infrastructure in areas for agriculture and fisheries uses, especially the cold chain logistics and transport network; of the Government’s plans in place to assist fishermen and farmers in setting up a modern storage and distribution system, thereby reducing the loss of and damage to their products and expand their sales network?

    Reply:

    President,

         The Government is actively taking forward the various initiatives under the Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries, with a view to promoting the upgrading and transformation of the agriculture and fisheries industries towards modernisation and sustainable development. Such initiatives include providing financial support and technical support, as well as improving the marketing environment, thereby meeting the development needs of the industries on various fronts.

         The reply to the question raised by Professor the Hon Priscilla Leung is as follows:

    (1) In terms of financial support, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), through the Sustainable Fisheries Development Fund and the Sustainable Agricultural Development Fund (SADF) of HK$1 billion each, assists the local agriculture and fisheries industries to switch to sustainable and high value-added mode of operations, thereby boosting the overall competitiveness of the industries. The Equipment Improvement Project and the Farm Improvement Scheme under the two respective Funds have also been providing financial assistance to eligible local fishermen/farmers for purchasing modernised and mechanised operational equipment and materials to enhance their competitiveness.

         Since the establishment of the two Funds, progress has been made with initial achievements, benefitting more than 4 570 fishermen/farmers. The AFCD reviews from time to time the effectiveness of approved or completed projects under the two Funds in fostering the sustainable development of the agriculture and fisheries industries. Upon project completion, the grantee should submit a final report and an audited account, specifying the project’s financial position and benefits brought to the industry, and should share the achievements with the industries. In addition, the AFCD will also organise seminars and sharing sessions for the trade.

         Besides, the Government, through the AFCD, the Fish Marketing Organization (FMO) and the Vegetable Marketing Organization (VMO), manages six fisheries and agricultural loan funds which provide fishermen/farmers with low-interest loans to help them switch to more sustainable operations or further enhance and expand their business. The AFCD and the FMO/VMO have been monitoring the operation of these funds on a continuous basis. Over the past five years, a total of about HK$500 million of loans were approved under these fisheries and agricultural loan funds, benefitting more than 1 660 fishermen/farmers.

    (2) The AFCD and the FMO/VMO have been providing proactive assistance to the industries to promote their local premium agricultural and fisheries products, including the organisation of major events such as the 75th National Day Farm and Gourmet Festival and the FarmFest, participation in food exhibitions (e.g. Vegetarian Food Asia, Food Expo, HOFEX and Organic Aquaculture Festival), development and setting up of the “Local Fresh” e-commerce platform and a physical store, collaboration with retailers to establish regular sales channels, and organisation of holiday bazaars and thematic sales activities in supermarket chains. The AFCD and the FMO/VMO will continue to explore online and offline sales channels, identify more partners for collaboration and step up the promotional efforts. We are also actively promoting leisure farming and fisheries, including allowing the public to taste fresh local agricultural and fisheries products at farms and fish farms, which will help publicise and promote the products.

         To further enhance the competitiveness of local agricultural and fisheries products and strengthen sales and promotion, the AFCD plans to establish a unified new brand for safe, low-carbon and premium local agricultural and fisheries products covering various locally produced agricultural and fisheries products, and to establish production standards, farming methods as well as a certification and traceability system for these products to ensure that the quality is up to standard. The AFCD is carrying out preparatory work with the local certification body, agricultural and fishermen organisations and other stakeholders. The AFCD and the certification body will make reference to international experiences when formulating a certification system that applies to the local agricultural and fisheries products and will fully consult the industries and relevant stakeholders before launching the new brand to ensure that the system standards are widely accepted by the industries. The AFCD is actively striving to build the unified new brand in 2025/26.

         In addition, the AFCD has in recent years offered courses on practical skills, such as business start-up, business operation, simple clerical and accounting processing, to fishermen with a view to enhancing their marketing and administrative knowledge. The AFCD also plans to organise training courses related to brand building and online marketing in future to enhance farmers and fishermen’s knowledge and understanding of various marketing practices, tools, sales channels, etc, so as to assist the industries in enhancing the competitiveness and market visibility of their agricultural and fisheries products.

    (3) The FMO/VMO have established a fish processing centre and the Premium Vegetables Section respectively to provide processing, freezing and packaging services for local agricultural and fisheries products, enhancing product value and extending shelf life of the products. In recent years, the FMO has actively introduced the vacuum skin packaging technology to enhance the freshness and appearance of products and facilitate logistics and transportation. For agricultural products, the “Pilot Scheme on Marketing and Branding of Graded Local Vegetables”, which is financially supported by the SADF, has been launched to grade local “accredited vegetables” and establish regional packaging and distribution centres with a view to providing a steady supply of premium vegetables and enhancing the consumers’ awareness of and demand for “accredited vegetables”. In addition, the FMO/VMO will review the utilisation and planning of existing wholesale markets, such as studying the feasibility of expanding the processing and cold storage facilities at Tai Po Wholesale Fish Market and other suitable locations.

         Regarding logistics, the existing logistics distribution services in Hong Kong can generally meet the needs of the local agriculture and fisheries industries. Local farms and fish farms usually arrange their own logistics and distribution services to deliver the harvested agricultural and fisheries products to customers or sell them through wholesale markets. Meanwhile, the FMO/VMO also provide logistics, delivery and marketing support to some farmers and fishermen.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Showcases SVAMITVA as Country Champion at the Ongoing World Bank Land Conference 2025 in Washington DC

    Source: Government of India

    India Showcases SVAMITVA as Country Champion at the Ongoing World Bank Land Conference 2025 in Washington DC

    Sessions on “Good Practices and Challenges in Land Tenure” & “Securing Land Rights for a Billion People” to Foster Dialogue on Inclusive Land Governance

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 4:26PM by PIB Delhi

    India, took center stage at the prestigious World Bank Land Conference 2025, held in Washington D.C., reaffirming its global leadership in inclusive land governance and grassroots empowerment. Participating as a Country Champion in the Plenary Session on 6th May 2025, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, delivered an address during the High-Level Plenary on “Good Practices and Challenges in Land Tenure and Governance Reform”, articulating India’s leadership in land rights, tenure reforms, and technology-driven spatial planning.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s pioneering SVAMITVA Scheme (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) has emerged as a transformational initiative in rural land governance. Shri Bharadwaj shared deep insights into the scheme’s journey – beginning with onboarding States, amending State laws and survey rules, and establishing critical technological infrastructure like Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) to enable accurate drone-based mapping. He explained how India’s federal structure requires strategic cooperation, coordination, and community involvement to drive reforms on a national scale.

    In his address, Shri Bharadwaj mentioned the  Peruvian economist Hernando de Soto’s observation about the untapped economic potential locked in informal land holdings. He emphasized that India has surveyed 68,000 square kilometers of rural land under SVAMITVA, unlocking $1.16 trillion worth of assets, thereby offering millions of rural families legal title, dignity, and access to credit and opportunity. Through anecdotes of individuals like a dairy farmer in Madhya Pradesh who expanded his business, or a mother in Rajasthan who funded her daughter’s overseas education, he highlighted how land ownership is being converted into real empowerment.

    The Special Event scheduled on 7th May 2025, titled “Securing Land Rights for a Billion People,” is set to further amplify India’s model of inclusive and technology-driven land governance. Led by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the session will open with welcome and opening remarks by Dr. Klaus W. Deininger, Lead Economist, World Bank, followed by an introduction by Mr. Somik V. Lall, Senior Advisor, DECVP, World Bank. The event will spotlight the design, impact, and scalability of the SVAMITVA Scheme, with presentation by Shri Vivek Bharadwaj. An interactive Q&A session will follow, reflecting the growing global interest in India’s transformative approach to rural land governance. The side event will be attended by all delegates of the World Bank Land Conference 2025, including Advisors and Senior Advisors to seven Executive Directors representing regions across Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), Central Asia, South Asia, and South East Asia, offering a valuable opportunity for cross-regional dialogue and exchange. The side event will provide a focused platform to discuss the implementation methodology and transformative benefits of the SVAMITVA Scheme with countries that share similar land administration systems. The objective is to explore avenues for collaboration, enabling the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to support and partner with these nations in adopting and adapting similar models in their respective contexts.

    On 8th May 2025, the focus will be on Gram Manchitra, India’s advanced GIS-based spatial planning platform. Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, will present how the platform is facilitating spatially informed decision-making at the Panchayat level, showcasing the integration of cutting-edge technology with grassroots governance to foster sustainable, resilient, and self-reliant villages.

    India’s interventions across these sessions aim to serve not only as a model for participatory and technology-enabled land governance, but also as a call to action for other nations striving to achieve SDG Target 1.4.2 which aims to ensure legal ownership and control over land for all, especially vulnerable communities. Through its presence at the World Bank Land Conference 2025, India has been positioned as a global thought leader in land tenure reforms, rural development, and inclusive governance demonstrating that a data-driven, people-centric approach can effectively bridge centuries-old land insecurity and usher in a new era of legal recognition, dignity, and prosperity for rural citizens.

    ***

    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2127523) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Suntory’s advertising campaigns emphasize refreshment, tradition, and social connections to engage diverse audiences, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Suntory’s advertising campaigns emphasize refreshment, tradition, and social connections to engage diverse audiences, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Suntory Holdings Ltd’s (Suntory) YouTube advertising campaigns of Q1 2025 (January – March 2025) focused on delivering refreshing beverages, celebrating Japanese heritage, and fostering meaningful connections through shared experiences. Suntory’s campaigns showcase a wide range of offerings, from Craft Boss World Tea to Suntory Whisky Hibiki Harmony, emphasizing the company’s dedication to quality and authenticity. Targeting young adults, families, and connoisseurs, Suntory presents its products as perfect for unwinding, social events, and celebrating cultural heritage, reveals Global Ads Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Satya Prasad Nayak, Ads Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Suntory’s advertisements effectively blend modernity with tradition, showcasing products like Iyemon Green Tea alongside offerings such as The Premium Malt’s Japanese Ale. The use of strategic celebrity endorsements, including Tommy Lee Jones and Muto Keiji, created relatable yet aspirational narratives. Campaigns like Tennensui’s Hello Kitty partnership and Jim Beam’s focus on camaraderie reflect Suntory’s dedication to diverse consumer values, from family well-being to refined craftsmanship, fostering trust and engagement across varied demographics.”

    Below are the key focus areas of Suntory’s advertisements, revealed by GlobalData’s Global Ads Platform:

    Celebrating Togetherness: The Craft Boss World Tea, with its range of Fruit Tea Ade and Milk Tea, invites families to connect over diverse flavors. Just as Jim Beam bourbon brings friends together, fostering camaraderie through shared experiences. Whether it’s a family gathering or a business trip toast, both brands understand the importance of shared moments, offering the perfect drinks to celebrate every bond.

    Healthy Lifestyle: Suntory Tennensui Marushibori SPARK Unsweetened promotes a balanced lifestyle with its unsweetened, whole-pressed fruit sparkling water. The natural ingredients and invigorating sparkle appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking refreshing, sugar-free beverages that align with their wellness goals.

    Cultural Heritage and Craftsmanship: Suntory leveraged traditional Japanese elements in advertisements like Iyemon Green Tea and Hibiki Whisky. From showcasing Nishijin-ori dyeing in Hibiki to Kyoto’s tea traditions in Iyemon, the brand appealed to those who value artistry, legacy, and cultural depth—strengthening emotional ties to its premium product lines.

    Family Well-being: The collaboration between Tennensui and Hello Kitty promoted emergency preparedness through a lighthearted lens. By featuring family-friendly characters and emphasizing hydration during crises, Suntory demonstrated care for household safety, making its water products essential and relatable for families with young children.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Suntory’s advertising campaigns emphasize refreshment, tradition, and social connections to engage diverse audiences, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Suntory’s advertising campaigns emphasize refreshment, tradition, and social connections to engage diverse audiences, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Suntory Holdings Ltd’s (Suntory) YouTube advertising campaigns of Q1 2025 (January – March 2025) focused on delivering refreshing beverages, celebrating Japanese heritage, and fostering meaningful connections through shared experiences. Suntory’s campaigns showcase a wide range of offerings, from Craft Boss World Tea to Suntory Whisky Hibiki Harmony, emphasizing the company’s dedication to quality and authenticity. Targeting young adults, families, and connoisseurs, Suntory presents its products as perfect for unwinding, social events, and celebrating cultural heritage, reveals Global Ads Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Satya Prasad Nayak, Ads Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Suntory’s advertisements effectively blend modernity with tradition, showcasing products like Iyemon Green Tea alongside offerings such as The Premium Malt’s Japanese Ale. The use of strategic celebrity endorsements, including Tommy Lee Jones and Muto Keiji, created relatable yet aspirational narratives. Campaigns like Tennensui’s Hello Kitty partnership and Jim Beam’s focus on camaraderie reflect Suntory’s dedication to diverse consumer values, from family well-being to refined craftsmanship, fostering trust and engagement across varied demographics.”

    Below are the key focus areas of Suntory’s advertisements, revealed by GlobalData’s Global Ads Platform:

    Celebrating Togetherness: The Craft Boss World Tea, with its range of Fruit Tea Ade and Milk Tea, invites families to connect over diverse flavors. Just as Jim Beam bourbon brings friends together, fostering camaraderie through shared experiences. Whether it’s a family gathering or a business trip toast, both brands understand the importance of shared moments, offering the perfect drinks to celebrate every bond.

    Healthy Lifestyle: Suntory Tennensui Marushibori SPARK Unsweetened promotes a balanced lifestyle with its unsweetened, whole-pressed fruit sparkling water. The natural ingredients and invigorating sparkle appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking refreshing, sugar-free beverages that align with their wellness goals.

    Cultural Heritage and Craftsmanship: Suntory leveraged traditional Japanese elements in advertisements like Iyemon Green Tea and Hibiki Whisky. From showcasing Nishijin-ori dyeing in Hibiki to Kyoto’s tea traditions in Iyemon, the brand appealed to those who value artistry, legacy, and cultural depth—strengthening emotional ties to its premium product lines.

    Family Well-being: The collaboration between Tennensui and Hello Kitty promoted emergency preparedness through a lighthearted lens. By featuring family-friendly characters and emphasizing hydration during crises, Suntory demonstrated care for household safety, making its water products essential and relatable for families with young children.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mary Miller Calls on Illinois County Sheriffs to Defy Sanctuary Law

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) called on Illinois sheriffs to defy Governor J.B. Pritzker’s state sanctuary laws, uphold President Trump’s federal immigration policies, and cooperate with ICE to deport illegal aliens.

    Read the Fox News exclusive HERE.

    “Governor JB Pritzker’s sanctuary state policies have transformed Illinois into a cesspool of crime and drugs brought by the illegals he is actively resettling,” said Congresswoman Mary Miller. “Our communities are being overwhelmed, innocent girls are being raped, and Americans are being ruthlessly murdered. These are the tragic consequences of his failed leadership. I call on every local sheriff in Illinois to defy these dangerous directives, cooperate with ICE, and support President Trump’s deportation efforts. We must act now before one more innocent American life is lost or harmed.”

    Congresswoman Miller currently serves as Chair of the Congressional Family Caucus and sits on the House Committees on Agriculture, Education and Workforce, and House Administration.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Sudan, Chad, South Sudan & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:

    Sudan
    Chad
    South Sudan
    Yemen
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Democratic Republic of the Congo / Humanitarian
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Libya
    Ukraine
    Security Council
    Human Development Report
    Science, Technology and Innovation

    SUDAN
    Our humanitarian colleagues said they’re deeply concerned by the intensifying drone attacks on civilian infrastructure in Port Sudan, in the east of the country. Early this morning, drone attacks reportedly struck the airport area, a fuel storage facility and a power transformer.
    While no UN personnel or facilities were directly affected by the strikes, OCHA said that the latest violence poses a growing risk to the safety of humanitarian staff and operations with flights of the UN Humanitarian Air Service both to and from Port Sudan still on hold.
    Elsewhere in the country, prolonged power outages due to drone attacks targeting power stations and facilities continue to disrupt civilian life. This is the case in Northern State, where a one-month power blackout prevented farmers from running electrical water pumps, leading to the destruction of more than 84 square kilometres of crops. And in River Nile State, the targeted destruction of power infrastructure has led to severe water supply shortages.
    Despite hostilities, we continue to provide assistance to the most vulnerable people. In East Darfur, humanitarian organizations are mobilizing aid for 35,000 people in the town of Ed Daein who fled there from Khartoum and Aj Jazirah States. And in Kassala State, we are scaling up water, sanitation and hygiene efforts and public health outreach to curb the spread of hepatitis E.

    CHAD
    And staying in the region, the UN Refugee Agency is gravely concerned by the rapidly increasing number of Sudanese refugees crossing into eastern Chad. Nearly 20,000 people – mostly women and children – have arrived there in the past two weeks alone.
    This sudden influx reflects the escalating violence in Sudan’s North Darfur region, particularly in and around El Fasher, which is triggering mass displacement. Refugees arriving in Chad report that over 10,000 people are still en route, trying to reach the border to escape the violence.
    A rapid protection assessment by UNHCR and its partners indicates that 76 per cent of the newly arrived refugees were subjected to serious protection incidents, including extortion, theft and sexual violence.
    Chad already hosts 1.3 million refugees, including 794,000 arrivals from Sudan since the conflict started more than two years ago. While the country continues to show remarkable solidarity in hosting refugees, it cannot bear this burden alone.
    UNHCR urges the international community to urgently step up support for the response. Only 20 per cent of the $409 million required to respond to the refugee crisis in Chad has been funded.

    SOUTH SUDAN
    Our peacekeeping colleagues in South Sudan tell us of continued air strikes in Fangak, a remote county in Jonglei state. According to reports received by the Mission last night, further aerial bombardments have allegedly taken place in and around New Fangak town, residential areas near the Phow river, and other locations.
    The Mission is working with all partners to verify civilian displacement figures, facilitate assistance for communities who have been affected by these events, and reduce tensions. Guang Cong, the Mission’s Deputy Special Representative, said that such attacks contravene the Revitalized Peace Agreement and severely undermine efforts to build lasting peace in the country. He called on involved parties to prioritize civilian protection by pursuing an immediate ceasefire.

    YEMEN
    Hans Grundberg, the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, said that the aerial attack carried out by Ansar Allah on Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, followed by strikes in response by Israel on Sana’a Airport and Hudaydah port in Yemen, mark a grave escalation in an already fragile and volatile regional context.
    Mr. Grundberg once again urges all stakeholders to exercise the utmost restraint and refrain from escalatory actions that risk inflicting further suffering on civilians. It is imperative that all actors uphold their obligations under international law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
    A return to dialogue is the only sustainable path towards ensuring lasting safety and security for Yemen and the broader region, the Special Envoy said.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=06%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXOEa0YwZEM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cowardly criminals forced to face victims under flagship Bill

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Cowardly criminals forced to face victims under flagship Bill

    Victims will be better protected than ever thanks to new measures across the justice system following the introduction of the Victims and Courts Bill (7 May).

    • New powers for judges to punish offenders who refuse to attend sentencing
    • Parental responsibility to be restricted for perpetrators of child sex offences
    • New powers for Victims’ Commissioner to hold government to account

    For the first time ever, judges will be able to hand down prison punishments for cowardly criminals who refuse to attend their sentencing hearing.

    The powers of the Victims’ Commissioner will also be strengthened, empowering them to play a greater role in individual cases and requiring them to produce an independent report on compliance with the Victims’ Code.

    Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Shabana Mahmood said:

    This Bill will deliver long overdue reforms to ensure victims see justice done and are given the vital support they need as they rebuild their lives.

    There is still more work to do as we fix a justice system that was left on the brink of collapse, but this Bill is a step towards rebuilding victims’ confidence through our Plan for Change.

    Measures in the Bill to force offenders to attend their sentencing will go further than ever before. In recognition that those facing long sentences or Whole Life Orders may not be deterred solely by additional time behind bars, this government is going further and giving judges the power to impose a range of prison sanctions on top of additional years on their sentence to ensure heinous criminals who refuse to attend can be appropriately punished. 

    The Bill also extends the eligibility to all cases in the Crown Court, meaning that all offenders who attempt to evade justice could be subject to tough sanctions – such as confinement to their cell and loss of privileges, like extra time in the gym – as well as up to two more years behind bars.

    Offenders who have been ordered to attend by a judge but whose disruptive and disrespectful behaviour results in their removal from the courtroom will also be punishable by the same means.

    Minister Davies-Jones said:

    I would like to thank the remarkable families of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, Jan Mustafa, Sabina Nessa and Zara Aleena and countless others who   have campaigned tirelessly for offenders to have to face the reality of their crimes by attending their sentencing.

    Justice isn’t optional – we’ll make sure criminals face their victims. 

    The Bill will also provide greater protection to victims by automatically restricting parental responsibility for vile offenders sentenced for a serious sexual abuse offence against their own child.

    Predatory parents will be prevented from actively taking steps in the child’s life, including requesting updates about the child’s schooling or seeking to interfere with their activities, better enabling the family to move forwards with their lives.

    London’s Independent Victims’ Commissioner, Claire Waxman OBE, said:

    For too long, offenders found guilty of some of the most heinous crimes have refused to attend sentencing hearings and face justice, their victims, and their victims’ families.

    I have worked closely with Jebina Islam, Farah Naz, and Ayse Hussein in spearheading this campaign and I want to pay tribute to their tireless campaigning, and also thank the family of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, who have fought so hard for this. Over the last few years, I have met with Ministers, the Judiciary, and justice partners to help shape these proposals to ensure they meet the needs of victims. I am pleased this Government has listened and acted on our concerns and have included other measures, such as prison sanctions, which I hope will put an end to this cruel injustice.

    This Bill will also bring in other important reforms I have long called for, such as measures to remove parental responsibility from convicted child sex offenders, to ensure these victims are better protected, and new powers to strengthen the vital work of the Victims’ Commissioner. These are all welcome changes and I’ll continue to do everything I can to ensure victims’ and survivors’ voices and experiences are at the heart of criminal justice reform.

    To ensure the government and other agencies are held to account in delivering for victims, the Bill also bolsters the role of the Victims’ Commissioner. Under the new legislation, the Commissioner will be able to play a greater role in individual cases which raise systemic issues ensuring lessons are learned to benefit other victims or witnesses.

    The Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, said:

    These important and welcome reforms give the Victims’ Commissioner the statutory powers needed to deliver on the role’s promise: championing victims’ rights, scrutinising compliance with the Victims’ Code, holding agencies to account, and spotlighting the true victim experience to drive meaningful change. This marks a step towards a more accountable system that puts victims first.

    Crucially, it introduces much-needed oversight and accountability to how agencies respond to anti-social behaviour – an area where victims have too often felt unheard and unsupported.

    Taken together, the Bill delivers on multiple manifesto commitments and the Government’s Plan for Change – giving victims greater confidence in the justice system.

    Further information

    The Commissioner will also be required to produce an independent report on compliance with the Victims’ Code, holding agencies to account on their statutory requirement to comply with the Code. Providing independent scrutiny from a victim-focused perspective and calling out agencies who are not fulfilling their duty will ensure victims are aware of their rights, improving their experience of the justice system.

    Further measures within the Bill include:

    • Updating the Victim Contact Scheme and establishing a new Victim Helpline so victims have a clear route to request information about an offender’s release
    • Placing a duty on local authorities and social housing providers to co-operate with the Victims’ Commissioner in relation to victims ASB
    • Increased flexibility for the Director of Public Prosecutions in appointing Crown Prosecutors
    • Lord Chancellor can now prescribe, through Regulations, rates at which private prosecutors may recover their costs from Central Funds
    • Increased time limit for the Attorney General to refer a sentence to the Court of Appeal on the grounds that it is unduly lenient where a request is made to the Attorney General in the last 14 days of the current 28-day time-limit

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rex, Georgia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm Offenses

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

                Montgomery, Ala. – Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced today that a Rex, Georgia man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms offenses. On May 6, 2025, a federal judge sentenced 40-year-old Johnques Wyndell Lupoe to 120 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

                According to court records, in late 2022, the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) received information about a suspicious individual near the grounds of one of their facilities in Barbour County during the early morning hours. When officers arrived to investigate, they discovered a duffle bag containing multiple items classified as prison contraband, including a substance later confirmed to be methamphetamine. No individuals were located in the immediate vicinity at the time.

                Later that morning, law enforcement officers encountered a man matching the suspect’s description at a nearby location. The individual, identified as Johnques Lupoe, admitted to being on the prison property earlier. Officers also discovered a handgun in his possession. Due to a prior felony conviction, Lupoe is legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

                On January 30, 2025, Lupoe pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

                The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Alabama Department of Corrections (ALDOC) Law Enforcement Services Division, and the Barbour County, Alabama Sheriff’s Department investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorney J. Patrick Lamb prosecuted.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Western Senators Applaud Progress, Senate Hearing on Their Bipartisan Wildfire Resilience Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Hickenlooper’s Fix Our Forests Act will help reduce wildfire risk for Colorado communities and speed up mitigation projects while maintaining environmental safeguards and encouraging local involvement
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, John Curtis, Alex Padilla, and Tim Sheehy applauded the continued progress of their bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act, which received a hearing this afternoon in the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. The bipartisan legislation works to combat the increase of catastrophic wildfires across Colorado and the United States by improving forest management, supporting fire-safe communities, and streamlining approvals for projects that protect communities and ecosystems from extreme wildfires.
    A one-pager can be found here, and a section-by-section can be found here.
    “The wildfire crisis is here – and climate change is making it worse,” Hickenlooper said. “Our bipartisan bill matches the urgency to protect our communities and the environment. We’re glad the committee is moving fast – this crisis won’t wait.”
    “Utah and the American West are on the front lines of raging wildfires—and the longer we wait, the more acres will burn, and the more families will be impacted,” said Curtis. “I’m encouraged to see our Fix Our Forests Act receive a hearing in the Senate Agriculture Committee today. Our legislation reflects months of consensus-building, and I’m confident that spirit will continue as the bill is considered by the Committee and, later, by the full Senate.”
    “The status quo around wildfires isn’t working. To protect our communities from these disasters, we have to work together across the aisle to reassess how we prevent and mitigate wildfires,” said Padilla. “Our Fix Our Forests Act represents important bipartisan progress, not just in reducing wildfire risk in and around our national forests, but in protecting urban areas and our efforts to slash climate emissions. I am glad to see the bill continue to move through the Senate and will keep fighting to advance forward-thinking, practical solutions to the wildfire crisis because if we can help prevent even one more community from the devastation California has experienced, it’ll be worth it.”
    “As we work to create more good-paying jobs and support those on the frontlines protecting communities from catastrophic wildfire, better stewarding our forests is something we can all agree on, regardless of party. The Fix Our Forests Act is a bipartisan, commonsense solution that helps secure a stronger economy, more resilient, healthy forests, and safer communities,” said Sheehy.
    The comprehensive bill reflects months of bipartisan negotiations to find consensus on how to accelerate forest management projects, promote safe and responsible prescribed fire treatments, expand public input in assessments of wildfire resilience needs, and enhance collaboration between federal agencies, states, tribes, and stakeholders.
    Earlier this month, the senators announced growing support from state and local government officials, community leaders, and industry stakeholders for the Senate version of the Fix Our Forests Act.
    The West has long been prone to wildfires, but climate change, prolonged drought, and the buildup of dry fuels have increasingly intensified these fires and extended fire seasons. Wildfires today are more catastrophic – growing larger, spreading faster, and burning more land than ever before.
    Colorado has seen four of the five largest fires in our state history since 2018. The 2021 Marshall fire was Colorado’s most destructive on record, burning over 1,000 homes. The Cameron Peak and East Troublesome fires in 2020 together burned over 400,000 acres, the two largest fires in the state’s history. Nationwide, total acres burned rose from 2.7 million in 2023 to nearly 9 million in 2024, a 231% increase.
    Forest health challenges are also increasing in frequency and severity due to climate stressors like drought and fire, and biological threats like invasive species – all of which the West is particularly vulnerable to. From 2001 to 2019, total forest area declined by 2.3%, while interior forest area decreased by up to 9.5%. The Intermountain region had the largest area losses, and the Pacific Southwest had the highest annual loss rates.
    More information on today’s hearing is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Cut Taxes on Overtime, Deliver on Key Trump Campaign Promise

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act, which would provide much needed relief for overtime wage workers. This bill would create a tax deduction for overtime wages up to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples—targeting middle-income Americans. The Wall Street Journal first reported on the bill’s introduction. 
    “President Trump campaigned and won on a promise to cut taxes for millions of Americans working overtime—and we are delivering on that promise,” said Sen. Tuberville. “Thousands of Alabamians put in way more than 40 hours a week in order to save for retirement, put their kids through college, and keep the trains running. They should not be punished with higher taxes for working longer hours. Alabama was the first state to pass overtime tax exemptions, and I am hopeful that the federal government will follow suit. I’m proud to join Senators Marshall, Ricketts, and Justice in helping deliver on this critical piece of President Trump’s agenda, which will put American workers first.”
    “President Trump promised relief for millions of hardworking Americans, and we’re proud to help deliver on that with the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act,” said Sen. Marshall. “Our legislation ensures Kansans keep more of their hard-earned wages and codifies a key pillar of President Trump’s pro-worker agenda as we work to pass our ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ It’s time to put American workers first again, and I’m proud to work with Senators Tuberville, Ricketts, and Justice to ensure we do just that.”  
    Joining Sens. Tuberville and Marshall in introducing the legislation are Sens. Jim Justice (R-WV) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE).
    Read full text of the legislation here.
    BACKGROUND:
    Specifically, the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act would:
    Introduce a tax deduction for overtime wages – up to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples,
    Include phase-out eligibility based on income:
    The deduction begins to phase out when income reaches $100,000 for individuals or $200,000 for married couples,
    The deduction is reduced by $50 for every $1,000 in income above the threshold, similar to the Child Tax Credit,

    Define overtime to include a wide range of workers such as law enforcement officers, nurses, trade workers, factory employees, and other eligible professions, and
    Require employers to report overtime earnings to ensure transparency and accuracy in claiming the deduction.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, VA Secretary Doug Collins Discuss Streamlining Processes to Improve Outcomes for Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) hearing with President Trump’s Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), Doug Collins. Sen. Tuberville and Secretary Collins discussed the importance of the VA improving its processes to ensure veterans get the best possible care.
    Read excerpts from the hearing below or watch on YouTube or Rumble.

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Secretary Collins, for being here. And thanks to the veterans that are here today, and I want to pass on the thanks from the 400,000 veterans in the state of Alabama. They have, for the first time, in just two months, have seen progress at a lot of the VAs in my state. We’ve seen a record number of disability claims processed, employees finally returned into work, and an end of the DEI programs like treatment for ‘gender dysphoria.’ You know, the days of business [as usual] as we all are noticing and hearing today are over. And finally, our veterans are being put first.
    And let’s talk about the budget a little bit, Mr. Secretary. Over the last ten years, the VA’s budget has more than doubled and the number of employees that the VA [employs] has increased more than 100,000, but the number of veterans in our country is declining and the VA enrollment has [not] changed. The VA has become a bloated bureaucracy. I think most of us will agree with that. Secretary Collins, why has the VA budget become so bloated over the last ten years if the veteran population has remained stagnant?”
    COLLINS: “Senator, I appreciate the question because there’s also one other number that we’re leaving out there as well—that veteran population actually enrolled in the VA has stayed steady at 9.1 million. And again, we can try and talk about numbers all we want here, but it’s been 9.1 million steady for the last, you know, ten years we look at this. So, we’re also losing veterans as a total population. We’re also not gaining in the enrollment of the VA. What we tend to forget, and some people say, ‘well, we’ve had an increase in different programs’—we have, but we also lose about 400,000 veterans a year to death, you know, natural causes. So, I mean, it’s a priority of function. 
    So, what we’re looking at here is there’s been programs that have been increased, there’s been a mandatory spending increase, and there’s been the things that we look at. I think what we’re actually looking at here though is there’s been a decision that we want to—that it’s easier to just put money and people toward issues without looking at, is there any cost or is there any real world aspect of that? Is there a return on investment? I think that as you talk to veterans and I go out and talk to the veterans, one of the things that we’re having is that those amount of numbers in people aren’t equating into how we can actually function.
    I mean, I appreciate the Ranking Member’s service. I appreciate it—we just disagree on this that when we have doctors and nurses [and] other clinicians who are not actually, you know, being clinicians and not reading, you know, charts or doing anything else. They’re actually, you know, formulating policy or doing administrative work. When I have, you know, these many folks that need to be more in the clinics, then we’re not helping the veteran. That’s just something that’s not happening. When you’re taking time to process disability claims that went up, then also not having the proper, you know, computer, the AI technology to help us and do that, but also putting out the issues that are slowing up. 
    And then also we get in our own way. Because we’re such a bureaucratic organization, we have rules over rules over rules. I had a gentleman tell me just the other day—and this is, again, I’ve seen this before from my own daughter. He actually said that—he was a double amputee. He actually said, ‘I have to go to the VA if I need a new wheelchair, I have to go to my primary care, a PT, and an OT before I can get a seating clinic appointment.’ Explain to me why we’re having to go through that kind of mess to get straight to a seating clinic in which we know where they need to be to start with.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. I often hear a lot about the large amounts of paperwork and the administrative burden VA doctors are forced to navigate when seeing patients. This leads to VA doctors seeing less patients per day. Where do you see the opportunity to reduce all these administrative processes?”
    COLLINS: “I think there’s plenty of opportunities there. And again, this has nothing to do with employees, has nothing to do with money. Simply, are we doing it most efficiently in the process? I’ve made a statement to every hospital that I go to, every clinic that I go to, every veteran benefit office that I go to. Just say this, tell me […] if you have ten sheets of paper to get a veteran the services that they need or ten sheets of paper to do the next thing, can you do it with five? I mean, I’ll show you an example—to apply for benefits in our VBA, there’s a sheet on there […] that has a full listing of the veteran as far as just basic information about their military service. And this for older veterans could be a problem actually to go back and remember dates. If the veteran served, then we could use that with their name, their Social Security number […] or their ID number, using their DD214, we can gain all the records that we need to confirm that they’re a part. But yet, we’re making them go through this process of filling out a form that many of our veterans who may or may not have computer capabilities are having trouble with, so it makes it difficult.”
    TUBERVILLE: “I hear from my some of the supervisors in the VAs, and they say we use two coding systems, one hospital coding system that is very, very effective. And the other one is from the WHO, which is a useless piece of crap. This comes from them. Why do we use both of those?”
    COLLINS: “That’s something I’m looking at now, again, to try and streamline the issues that we have in our system so that we, again, it is interesting a lot of times we end up talking about processes and plans here and not talking about actual care and actually what the veteran experiences when they go in. Most of the veterans, I will tell you a lot of times they actually—when they get through the labyrinth and stuff to get there, they are happy with the service that they get. They’re glad that they’re getting the service and they appreciate that. […] But when we actually put restrictions on our employees and put restrictions on veterans getting in, it just makes it all the worst. Thank you.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Grassley Push to Strengthen the Abused Immigration Parole Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley in cosponsoring the Immigration Parole Reform Act to restore integrity to immigration parole.
    Sen. Tuberville cosponsored this legislation in the 118th Congress.
    “The Biden administration made a habit of using dangerous loopholes to let more illegal immigrants into the country,” said Sen.Tuberville. “Giving parole to hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants is an abuse of power—President Trump is putting an end to this. I am proud to join this legislation that clarifies executive parole authority and will prevent future administrations from enabling an endless flow of dangerous criminals into our country.”
    “The Obama and Biden administrations badly abused immigration parole, which was intended to be a temporary and highly discretionary means to enter our country. Under President Trump, parole will no longer be used as a loophole for illegal immigration. However, Congress must also act to prevent any future exploitation. My legislation would clarify the parole statute and ensure all future administrations are bound to Congress’ original intent,” said Sen. Grassley.
    Sens. Tuberville and Grassley are joined by Sens. Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Josh Hawley (R-MO), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) in cosponsoring the bill.
    Read full text of the legislation here. 
    BACKGROUND:
    Immigration parole, established by Congress in 1952, allows the executive branch to temporarily grant individuals entry into the United States on a limited, case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. 
    The Obama and Biden administrations abused this authority to bypass congressionally-established immigration pathways and admit entire categories of people. The previous administration exploited this authority to indiscriminately release an estimated 1.5 million immigrants into the U.S. On January 21, 2025, the Trump administration issued a directive restoring the immigration parole program back to Congress’ original intent.
    Specifically, the Immigration Parole Reform Act would:
    Ensure parole is granted on a case-by-case basis and not used to admit entire classes of people,
    Clearly define what qualifies as an “urgent humanitarian reason” or “significant public benefit” for purposes of granting parole,
    Guarantee parole is not used to adjust permanent resident status, or to obtain any other immigration benefit, and
    Place limits on the time period of an initial grant of parole and allow only one extension.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks with DOD Nominees on Bolstering Cyber Capabilities and Reducing Bureaucracy at DOD

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Mr. Anthony Tata, President Trump’s nominee to be Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, and Ms. Katherine Sutton, President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy during their Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) nomination hearing. During their conversation, Sen. Tuberville asked about the funding levels for cyber operations and how the Department of Defense plans to decrease top-heavy bloat within the agency.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or watch on YouTube or Rumble.

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thanks to both of you for your willingness to serve. 
    Ms. Sutton, the President released the topline of his FY26 budget last week. We look forward to learning all the details of the proposal weeks ahead. We do know that this year’s budget request for cyber operations was $14.5 billion—up one billion from the previous year.
    Given the rapid involvement of the landscape in cyber, do you believe this funding level is sufficient to meet our security needs?”
    SUTTON: “Senator, I share your concern with making sure we are balancing the resources available with the growing threat—as you indicated. One of the primary responsibilities, if confirmed in this role, is to review the budget and to certify that to ensure it’s necessary. One of the things that is particularly unique about the cyber domain is that many of the capabilities are a software capability. And so, investments in this domain can have a very immediate response into providing options for the President and Secretary [of Defense] and [I] look forward to having the opportunity to highlight where we can better integrate this and perhaps shore up additional resources as needed.”
    TUBERVILLE: “What role will cyber play in the future of possibly the Golden Dome?”
    SUTTON: “Senator, in my current role, I’ve not been involved in the specifics of that discussion, but I think that what we see with all of our weapon systems is the importance of building in cyber security from the beginning to make sure that as we put these capabilities out, that we’re able to defend them and that they’re secure against what will be […] an attack surface that our adversaries will definitely look to exploit.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.
    Mr. Tata, I reviewed your record: public service, combat veteran, […] Lieutenant Secretary of Transportation, leading tens of thousands of military members in civil service, conducting complex missions. Anything you hadn’t done? My goodness.”
    TATA: “Senator, I appreciate that comment.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you for your service. But instead of exploring the experience, my colleagues seem to be focused on some things that you said in the past, and I find this interesting given the last four years where a lot of the Democratic Party continued to call conservatives, ‘Nazis,’ ‘Fascists,’ [and] ‘threats to the democracy.’ You know, it goes both ways here. You know, the previous administration fully weaponized our justice system […] to attack and punish their political opposition, [they had] grandmothers thrown into prison for peaceful protests. It just goes on and on. Out of curiosity, Mr. Tata, have you labeled people you disagreed with Nazis?”
    TATA: “Senator, I have not.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Have you ever weaponized your previous offices to punish your political opponent?” 
    TATA: “Senator, I have not.”
    TUBERVILLE: “I didn’t think so.
    Yesterday, Secretary Hegseth announced […] a two-phased approach to reducing our top-level military. Phase one is a 20% reduction of active Four-Star Generals and Flag Officers as well as a 20% [reduction] from the National Guard Bureau […]. Phase two will be an additional 10% [reduction]—the Undersecretary of Personnel and Readiness will be leading this initiative. I’m interested in your thoughts on this announcement.”
    TATA: “Senator, anytime that we’re talking about tooth-to-tail ratio, I think it’s a good conversation. The Secretary’s comment about the number of generals when we were in World War II versus the number we have today, I think, is a stark reminder that perhaps we’ve become a little bit of a bureaucracy. And so, he talked about a methodical and measured way of going about finding the for-structure realignment that would allow for the reductions he’s talking about.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Can we expect a complementary effort to reduce the real bloat at OSD and Joint Staff, which have increased by two to five times respectively over the last 25 years, while our total force numbers have decreased?”
    TATA: “Senator, if confirmed, I would work with you and the rest of this committee on optimizing the workforce and the military.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In First Hearing as Ranking Member of Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture and FDA, Shaheen Co-Leads Review of Trump’s Agriculture Budget Request, Presses Secretary Rollins on How Administration Chaos has Hurt Farmers and Rural Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    **Shaheen underscored how the unnecessary funding freeze and trade war imposed by the administration have caused uncertainty for America’s farmers and producers**
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies (Ag-FDA), today co-led her first hearing as the top Democrat on the subcommittee. In her questioning of Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Shaheen highlighted how President Trump has sown chaos that has hurt farmers, producers and rural parts of the country and underscored how the President’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026 falls woefully short of what is needed to adequately support rural communities. Click here to watch the Senator’s opening remarks and here to watch her questions. 
    “The proposed budget toplines released last Friday fall well short of the President’s purported commitments to farmers and rural communities. I don’t believe we support farmers by gutting research that will boost yields and improve crop quality. And I don’t believe we put rural America on a path to thrive by slashing core rural development programs—from housing to water and waste infrastructure to energy assistance. And when grocery prices are too high, we don’t help families put food on the table by undercutting vital nutrition programs. Yet, that’s exactly what this skinny budget would do,” said Ranking Member Shaheen. “I hope that we will have the chance to move forward with bipartisan appropriations with a serious non-defense discretionary number that reflects the urgent needs that are facing families and communities in the Granite State and across the country – because there are plenty of places where we can work together to ensure that these programs deliver for producers and rural America.” 
    During the hearing, Shaheen raised a letter she and U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) sent to Secretary Rollins in March that emphasized the need to get critical disaster relief assistance to growers in New Hampshire and across the country, underscoring the importance of ensuring funding goes to small farms in states like New Hampshire that sorely need the assistance. 
    Shaheen pressed Secretary Rollins on the elimination of the Food for Peace and McGovern-Dole Food for Education programs in the FY26 budget request, which feed hungry people globally with U.S. farm commodities.   
    In March, Shaheen held two separate roundtable discussions with New Hampshire farmers and agricultural producers from across the state to discuss the impacts farms experienced as a result of President Trump’s freeze on tens of billions of dollars of federal funding at USDA. Farmers told Senator Shaheen that the uncertainty over whether or not crucial programs they rely on will be funded interrupts their ability to do their jobs. Later that month, Shaheen joined her Senate colleagues in pressing USDA to explain the reported cancellation of previously approved funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) for food banks and other emergency food providers. 
    Shaheen has long fought to support farmers in New Hampshire, including by successfully helping to secure disaster supplemental funding for farmers impacted by crop losses in 2023. Shaheen also has a strong record of working to improve crop insurance policies to support farmers in New Hampshire and leads legislation to reform the federal government’s crop insurance program. Senator Shaheen has supported more than 230 New Hampshire small businesses who have received over $25 million to lower energy bills and cut costs through USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program. She has consistently fought for increased funding and improved support for rural development programs, including rural water programs. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Microsoft and FFA help students use smart sensors and AI to learn about the future of farming

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Microsoft and FFA help students use smart sensors and AI to learn about the future of farming

    Partnership expands FarmBeats for Students program to all 50 states to help grow next generation of farmers

    REDMOND, Wash. — May 6, 2025 — Microsoft Corp. and the National FFA Organization on Tuesday announced the national expansion of FarmBeats for Students, a cutting-edge educational program integrating smart sensors, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to teach precision agriculture in classrooms. Starting today, FFA teachers and students throughout the United States, including FFA chapters in 185 middle and high schools, will receive a classroom set of FarmBeats for Students kits free of charge. The kits include ready-to-use sensor systems along with curriculum for teachers and are designed for classrooms of all kinds; no prior technical experience is required.

    More and more farmers are adopting advanced technology, including automating systems such as tractors and harvesters and using drones and data analysis to intervene early against pests and disease, to maximize crop yield, optimize resource usage, and adjust to changing weather patterns. Gaining hands-on experience with machine automation, data science and AI will help American agricultural students remain competitive in the global market.

    Using the FarmBeats for Students kits and free curriculum, students build environmental sensor systems and use AI to monitor soil moisture and detect nutrient deficiencies — allowing them to understand what is happening with their plants and make data-driven decisions in real time. Students can adapt the kit to challenges unique to their region — such as drought, frost and pests — providing them with practical experience in tackling real-world issues in their hometowns.

    “Microsoft is committed to ensuring students and teachers have the tools they need to succeed in today’s tech-driven world, and that includes giving students hands-on experience with precision farming, data science and AI,” said Mary Snapp, Microsoft vice president, Strategic Initiatives. “By teaming up with FFA to bring FarmBeats for Students to students across the country, we hope to inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders and equip them with the skills to tackle any and all challenges as they guide us into the future.”

    “Our partnership with Microsoft exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing industry needs while fostering personal and professional growth among students,” said Christine White, chief program officer, National FFA Organization. “Supporting agricultural education and leadership development is crucial for shaping the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. Programs like this equip students with technical knowledge, confidence and adaptability to thrive in diverse and evolving industries. Investing in these young minds today sets the stage for a more sustainable, innovative and resilient agricultural future.”

    In addition, teachers, students or parents interested in FarmBeats for Students can purchase a kit for $35 at this link and receive free training at Microsoft Learn.

    Any educator interested in implementing the FarmBeats for Students program can now access a new, free comprehensive course on the Microsoft Educator Learn Center, providing training on precision agriculture, data science and AI, allowing teachers to earn professional development hours and badges.

    FarmBeats for Students was co-developed by Microsoft, FFA and agriculture educators. The program aligns with the AI for K-12 initiative guidelines; Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources career standards; Computer Science Teachers Association standards; and Common Core math standards.

    For more information about FarmBeats for Students, visit aka.ms/FBFS.

    About National FFA Organization

    The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

    About Microsoft

    Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

    For more information, press only:

    Microsoft Media Relations, We. Communications, (425) 638-7777, [email protected]

    Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit Microsoft Source at https://news.microsoft.com/source. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts.

    MIL OSI Economics –